Title
Resolution to Appropriate Funds and Approve and Authorize an Increase in the Ann Arbor Housing Trust Fund to Assist Low-Income Homeowners with Sidewalk Repairs ($25,000.00)
(8 Voted Required)
Memorandum
The attached resolution approves and authorizes funding for low-income homeowners who financially are unable to pay for their sidewalk repairs and have applied for financial hardship assistance. The resolution authorizes an increase in the Ann Arbor Housing Trust Fund by $25,000.00 to be used solely for the sidewalk repair financial assistance program. Funding will be appropriated from the General Fund Reserves.
The City is in the process of completing the 3rd year of the first 5-year rotation of the Sidewalk Inspection Program that identifies sidewalks in need of repairs. Staff has received 18 requests for financial assistance. Of those requests nine have come in within the last 12 months. We anticipate no more than 20 requests per year.
The Office of Community Development has agreed to review the applications and manage the income qualifications process. The Office of Community Development has trained and knowledgeable staff that can perform these tasks. The Public Services Area staff will continue to perform the sidewalk inspections.
Homeowners that are approved for financial assistance may receive up to $3,000.00 in sidewalk repair assistance funding. Where the City's contractor performs this work for these homeowners, the $225.00 administrative fee will be waived. The property must be owner-occupied and have a household income of 30% AMI or less. The financial assistance will be considered a grant and not a loan.
The Office of Community Development will review the applications to see if the 30% AMI threshold is met and disburse funds as appropriate. Upon review the 18 requests to date, CDBG believes an AMI of 30% is appropriate.
Staff
Prepared by: Karla Henderson, Manager Field Operations Unit
Reviewed by: Sue F. McCormick, Publ...
Click here for full text