Title
Resolution Directing the City Administrator to Develop a Plan to Review and Increase the Utilization of the Poverty Exemption Program
Staff
Prepared by: Matthew V. Horning, Financial Services Area Administrator & Interim CFO
Reviewed by: Matthew Thomas, Assistant City Attorney
Approved by: Tom Crawford, Interim City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor has adopted numerous resolutions that endeavor to increase housing affordability and improve social equity;
Whereas, Ann Arbor’s average for-sale home price is nearly $400,000.00, making home ownership unaffordable for households that earn less than $85,000.00 per year;
Whereas, Ann Arbor is home to low-income homeowners that struggle to remain in our community;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor has instituted a Poverty Exemption program that waives property taxes for residents living near the federal poverty line;
Whereas, Many residents are unaware of the Poverty Exemption program; and
Whereas, The Poverty Exemption program is likely underutilized;
RESOLVED, That the City Council directs the City Administrator to develop a plan to review and increase the utilization of the Poverty Exemption program. Ideas for such a plan could include:
1. Increase advertisement through multiple channels, such as the City of Ann Arbor website, water bills, tax statements, press releases, and AAATA ads;
2. Raise the income threshold to accommodate more households; and
3. Reduce the complexity of informational materials and application.
RESOLVED, That the City Council requests that the City Administrator, or a designee, meet with relevant stakeholders, such as the Housing and Human Services Advisory Board (HHSAB), in developing this plan; and
RESOLVED, That the City Council directs the City Administrator to deliver this plan by December 31, 2020.
Sponsored by: Mayor Taylor and Councilmembers Ackerman, Bannister, Eaton, Lumm, and Hayner