TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing submittal of an application to the California State Department of Housing and Community Development for funding under the Calendar Year 2005 Workforce Housing Reward Program; execute a standard agreement and any such amendments thereto, if selected for such funding; and execute any additional documents necessary to participate in the Workforce Housing Reward Program. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In May 2005, the California State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) released a Notice of Funding Availability under the Workforce Housing Reward. Program (Program). The Program is funded through Proposition 46, the Housing and Emergency Shelter Trust Fund Act of 2002. It is designed to reward and provide incentives to cities and counties that approve housing for very low- and low-income households in compliance with State housing element law. The Program also provides additional bonus grants to communities that have made significant progress in meeting their share of the regional housing need.
The Program does not use a competitive process to award funds. All cities and counties who meet the eligibility requiremenfs will be funded. Program funds are awarded based on the number of bedrooms in newly constructed eligible housing units (based on building permits issued between January I, 2005 and December 31,2005). In addition, cities that were awarded funds under the Jobs Housing Balance Program (JHBP) in 2003 can receive additional bonus funds under the Program.
The City of Long Beach was awarded $91 8,603 in JHBP funds for Calendar Year 2003, and $227,098 in Program funds for Calendar Year 2004. The 2003 funds were allocated to assist in the construction of the new Mark Twain Library; and 2004 funds are being used for replacement and reconstruction of sidewalks, curbs, and gutters surrounding the 42-unit Pacific Lights affordable rental housing development currently under construction at 1601 Pacific Avenue.
Grant funds provided under the Program must be used for capital asset projects that benefit the community and add to the community's quality of life. Recipients of the 2005 Program funds are anticipated to be announced in June 2006.
The Department of Community Development is requesting approval to submit an application for up to $400,000 in Program funds based on building permits' issued for the construction of 63 very low- and 7 low-income rental and ownership units. It is proposed that these funds be utilized for the costs of public improvements in the Washington and Central Housing Action Plan Focus Areas.
This letter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Richard Anthony on February 24, 2006, and Budget Management Officer David Wodynski on February 23,2006.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on March 14, 2006, to meet the Program submission deadline of March 22, 2006.
FISCAL IMPACT
Any funding received under the Workforce Housing Rewards Program will be utilized to support public improvements in the Washington and Central Housing Action Plan Focus Areas. There is no impact to the General Fund.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
PATRICK H. WEST |
APPROVED: |
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT |
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GERALD R. MILLER |
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CITY MANGER |