HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-16-2017 Housing & Community Development CommissionAGENDA
Housing & Community Development Commission
Thursday, November 16, 2017
6:30 P.M.
Senior Center, Room 202
28 S. Linn Street, Iowa City
Use the Washington Street entrance or
2" d floor skywalk via Tower Place parking garage
1) Call meeting to order
2) Approval of the October 30, 2017 minutes
3) Public comment for topics not on the agenda
4) Update on FY18 projects without a signed agreement
5) Consider approval of draft FY19 CDBG and HOME application materials
6) Discuss the Informational Disclosure and Acknowledgement Form for
rental housing permits
7) Staff/commission comment
8) Adjournment
If you will need disability -related accommodations to participate in this program/event,
please contact Tracy Hightshoe at trace-hightshoe0iowa-city.orq or 319.356.5230. Early
requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
OCTOBER 30, 2017 — 6:30 PM
SENIOR CENTER, ROOM 202
MEMBERS PRESENT: Syndy Conger, Charlie Eastham, Vanessa Fixmer-Oraiz, Christine
Harms, Bob Lamkins, John McKinstry, Maria Padron, Paula Vaughan
MEMBERS ABSENT: Harry Olmstead
STAFF PRESENT: Tracy Hightshoe
OTHERS PRESENT: None
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 8-0 the Commission recommends to change the Aid to Agencies priority level for
Domestic Violence Services from medium to high.
By a vote of 8-0 the Commission recommends Council adopt the housing code, zoning, enforcement and
additional housing code changes as specified in the 9/14/2017 staff memo, Recommendations for
Addressing Neighborhood Stability Post HF134.
By a vote of 8-0 the Commission recommends that #2 under Rental Permit Limits be eliminated from the
Recommendations for Addressing Neighborhood Stability Post HF134 staff memo, not be adopted. The
commission does not recommend any spacing requirements in the impact area.
By a vote of 7-1 (Lamkins dissenting) the Commission recommends that the recommendation under
Rental Permit Limits, #1 (establish a cap on rental permits) from the Recommendations for Addressing
Neighborhood Stability Post HF134 staff memo, be adopted; however, the policy should allow
administrative approval on a case by case basis as it relates to a loss of substantial value for owner -
occupied homes surrounded by rental property.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
Vaughan called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
APPROVAL OF THE SEPTEMBER 21.2017 MINUTES:
Eastham moved to approve the minutes of September 21, 2017. Conger seconded the motion. A
vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO FY2016-2020 CITY STEPS:
Hightshoe noted at the last meeting Ackerson presented a write-up of the public comments staff
had received regarding needs of the community, especially as they relate to low and moderate
income residents in Invest Health neighborhoods. Hightshoe passed out the current CITY
STEPS priorities for all eligible categories of funding. Members can recommend changing
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 30, 2017
Page 2 of 7
priorities if they believe anything should be changed. For any changes that require Council
action, a 30-day public comment period is necessary. This must be done so that Council can
review at their first meeting in December. CDBG/HOME applications are available after that
meeting if any changes needed.
Padron asked if there is any limit to the number of public services that can be tagged as high
priority and Hightshoe replied there is not, these were just voted on by the Commission at some
point to help guide their decisions. She added that the categories listed are using HUD
definitions as this is what must be entered into HUD's disbursement system to get funding. They
have not been updated.
Vaughan asked about the dollar amounts that were listed in the report, if they were City assigned
or federally assigned dollar amounts. Hightshoe said it varies. The maximum of 15% CDBG
funds to public services is a statutory federal requirement, the City cannot spend more than 15%
of their entitlement plus program and income on public services (it is a federal cap). The $75,000
is a Council set -aside they wished to be used for neighborhood improvements. For example this
past year the $75,000 paid for the Wetherby Park sports courts and the year before it paid for
curb cuts on Lakeside Drive and an area downtown that was close to housing for residents with
disabilities. $235,000 is the Council set -aside for owner -occupied housing rehab, $50,000 is a
Council set -aside for economic development. The Council offers small business loans for low-
income entrepreneurs or businesses that are hiring primarily low-income employees. The
$50,000 last year was spent for two projects: a new coffee shop that is going in Old Towne
Village and for 4-C's Childcare to provide technical assistance for those opening their own in -
home child care businesses. The $90,000 HOME set -aside is for owner -occupied rehab.
Hightshoe stated that HCDC does not review or take applications for those set -aside funds, but
can make recommendations to Council on redistributing the set -asides. HCDC allocates the
monies outside of these set -asides.
Eastham asked when it would be timely to recommend to Council that the set -asides should be
modified. Hightshoe stated it would be from tonight's meeting. If HCDC changes the priorities in
CITY STEPS there must be a 30-day public comment period.
Eastham asked if HCDC considered changing the set -asides this year. Hightshoe stated there
have been commissions that have requested or suggested a different set -aside amount or
removing a set -aside. To date, the Council has not approved, but HCDC can make a
recommendation.
Hightshoe noted that HCDC is only deciding on priorities, there are no known funding amounts at
this time. They just got their federal funding this year (3 months late) and CDBG was $568,000
and HOME was $425,000 which was more money than received the year before. Staff had been
anticipating the elimination of the HOME program (or at least severely cutting funding of it) and
instead received an increase. She also stated the City will also be getting more program income
in fiscal year 2019 because of loan repayments from a recent CDBG loan from Bilam Properties.
We estimate about an additional $48,000 in program income per year for the next 15 years.
Eastham asked if the Commission could recommend to the Council a use for funds outside of the
set -asides and recommend allocating CBDG funds for other projects and activities and not have
enough left to have for the set -asides. Hightshoe said the Commission could recommend
changing set -asides as well. The Council may or may not act on the recommendations.
Conger asked how long the HCDC priorities had been in place. Hightshoe said about the past
three or four years. Conger is concerned about the Domestic Violence services —the funding for
that agency has changed and the Johnson County services are not just serving Johnson County
but a total of eight counties. Conger believes it should be a higher priority.
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 30. 2017
Page 3 of 7
Eastham noted he could support that but is also interested in changing the set asides for owner -
occupied housing rehab ($235,000 CDBG, $90,000 HOME) and allocate those funds to rental
projects (rental rehab., etc.) as he feels it fits the current Council's strategic plan vision for
providing more lower -income housing and that is a greater need than owner -occupied housing
rehab.
Conger asked if the set -aside funds for rehab. were all used in the past year. Hightshoe stated all
CDBG funds were used. The majority of HOME funds were spent, the remaining will be
committed in FY18 (HUD allows HOME projects up to four years to complete — so all HOME
funds are used). Hightshoe, it is required that all homeowners be below 80% median income,
many of our homeowners are between 30-60% median income. Several beneficiaries are the
elderly and people with disabilities. It can also be used for emergency assistance such as
furnaces or water heaters for low-income homeowners.
Eastham asked what constitutes emergency assistance. Hightshoe said it is usually something
that consists of unlivable conditions such as no heat, no water, a threating electrical issue, etc.
Eastham asked then if the Commission could make a recommendation that those funds be used
only for emergency repairs. Hightshoe stated the program does prioritize homeowners and has a
waiting list. Staff reviews various items (income, elderly/disabled status, time on list, etc.). to
prioritize. If there is an emergency, staff would review and proceed based on the circumstances.
Harms asked if there was a non-profit rental rehabilitation fund similarly for emergency situations
in the set -asides and Hightshoe said there was not. The City or another agency could make an
application for this. Our nonprofit housing providers typically apply for assistance, such as
Successful Living, The Housing Fellowship, Charm Homes and MYER
Lamkins agrees with the need for assistance to owner -occupied rehab for emergency conditions
but is questioning the reasoning to assist with rehabs such as a kitchen remodel. Hightshoe
stated there aren't several complete several kitchen remodels, but kitchens, like anything, reach
their useful life. Typical repairs include bathroom improvements — shower, grab bars,
accessibility improvements such as ramps and widening doors, electrical upgrades, foundation
repair, new roofs, windows, and doors. Code violations also need to be addressed and repaired.
Hightshoe explained that most of these repairs are loans. Most are paid when the homeowner
sells, refinances or moves out of the house. 50% is a grant if the home is in certain
neighborhoods and for mobile homes.
Eastham asked what percentage of rehab funds spent over the past five or ten years have been
repaid. Hightshoe is unsure of the percentage but noted that typically they receive about $30,000
to $40,000 in housing rehab loan repayments each year. Eastham also asked what the total debt
owed to the City is for this program and Hightshoe did not have the figure readily available, it is
reported in the annual auditing report.
McKinstry noted it seems sensible because these funds are helping people stay in their homes
for a relatively small amount of money, if someone had to leave their home because it was
unhealthy it would be a much larger expenditure.
Eastham feels that $325,000 per year seems like a substantial amount of money to allocate to
this one area. McKinstry doesn't feel it is very substantial for a city the size of Iowa City.
Hightshoe noted they assist about 25 homeowners each year.
Harms agrees that this owner -occupied housing rehab money should stay as it is. These
programs are necessary to keep families in homes.
Conger agrees but also feels that rental rehab is necessary too. Eastham agrees and feels the
allocation should be equally divided between owner -occupied and non-profit rental housing
rehabs. Hightshoe noted that typically there is only owner -occupied housing rehab. and Habitat
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 30, 2017
Page 4 of 7
that utilize funds for homeowners/homeownership. The remaining housing funds are typically
used by rental housing providers.
Lamkins stated that the average homeowner receives about $11-13,000 based on what has been
said. He feels it is a good investment. The homeowners must be income eligible and it allows
them to stay in their home. He stated it is good for neighborhood stability.
Padron asked if there is a limit on age of the home that can be included on the rehab
applications. Hightshoe said there is not, there are just different regulations depending on the
age of the home (historic or conservation districts, lead rules). With mobile homes the City will
not invest more than approximately $5,000. These are grants for mobile homes.
Eastham asked if the City tracks the income and race of the beneficiaries. Hightshoe stated it is
required and must be entered into HUD's disbursement system. This used to be in included in
the CAPER, it is now a report you must download, but it is available.
Harms also noted that Conger made a good comment about the Domestic Violence Services and
that it should now be a higher priority.
Conger moved to change the Aid to Agencies priority level for Domestic Violence Services
from medium to high. Fixmer-Oraiz seconded, a vote was taken and the motion passed 8-
0.
DISCUSS STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDRESSING NEIGHBORHOOD
STABILITY FOLLOWING HF134:
Hightshoe noted this item was prompted because the State legislature amended Iowa Code to not allow
municipalities, after January 1, 2018, from adopting or enforcing any regulation or restriction related
to occupancy of residential rental property that is based upon familial status. Council directed staff
to consider this because the concern was that houses and duplexes close to campus/downtown
would convert to rooming houses. Hightshoe stated that once a house or duplex is substantially
changed into a rooming house, it is not likely to ever revert to a single-family home due to the cost.
Staff looked in to ways to make sure the downtown properties don't get over occupied and how to
zone areas not based on occupancy. Most municipalities zone based on occupancy or familial
status. The staff memo to Council recommends a rental cap in the University of Iowa impacted
neighborhoods (based on open space designations). No more than 40% of the single family and
duplex units may have a rental permit. This does not apply to multi -family rentals. The
recommendation also states that to prevent homes from converting to rooming houses no more than
35% of home's habitable space can be bedrooms as well as other changes. The memo also
covered zoning and enforcement changes.
Eastham noted he is in favor of not having the second spacing requirement and allowing the
affordable housing model to regulate spacing (item #2 under Rental Permit Limits).
Lamkins stated he is not in favor of the rental cap. He stated it could severely impact the value of
some people's homes if they wish to sell and cannot sell to someone who wants to make the
property a rental property. It could mean they have to sell their home for tens of thousands of dollars
less and is penalizing the homeowners. Harms asked if there could be room for exceptions.
Vaughan stated that if nothing is in place, then the whole area will be rental units and that will also
affect property values.
The Commission discussed the UniverCity program and using it rather than this Rental Permit Limit
to keep single-family homes in the neighborhoods. Hightshoe noted that in the UniverCity program
they do try to cluster the single-family homes together as it makes it easier to sell to eligible
homeowners.
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 30, 2017
Page 5 of 7
Lamkins reiterated this is why any single-family home in these high rental areas will have trouble
selling because it will be hard to find buyers that want to live surrounded by rentals. It may not
happen often, but he stated he knows a case where a long-time homeowner is surrounded by
student rentals. This home will be hard to sell, and if they sell, they will be forced to settle with
thousands less. He stated the cap puts neighborhood stabilization on the backs of a few
homeowners that live there now. Not all homeowners will be in this situation, but a few will be.
Pardon stated that this will help stabilize the area over the years because no new rental homes will
be allowed in the area. She also raised concern about where students will live if there can be no
new rental units in these areas close to campus.
Hightshoe noted the second part of the change is the housing code changes. These are an effort to
not have homes converted into rooming houses. There will also be increased inspections to actively
patrol nuisances.
Eastham stated he felt the housing code enforcements listed in the staff memo were very strong.
Conger noted it is fair to say that some of the housing code changes will also impact rental units.
The rental cap is for the downtown neighborhoods, but the housing code changes are citywide. Staff
will also be looking at regulatory changes to the zoning code regarding allowing four -bedroom units
outside the University impacted areas.
Eastham suggested that City staff consider the affected downtown areas and do an analysis of how
many single-family homes might be impacted if they cannot sell and the estimated market value of
those homes. Then perhaps criteria could be set up to give exceptions to those homeowners.
McKinstry stated he questioned staff if he should even vote on this topic since he lives in the area. He
stated when affordable housing is proposed, neighbors go to the hearing and say they don't want the
affordable housing near them because it will make their property values decrease. He stated this is not
true, but he is a neighbor and not sure if he should comment. Hightshoe stated he is free to express his
comments as a homeowner who maybe impacted. Asa homeowner in the Northside he would really
like to see not everything go to rentals. The UniverCity program has brought in great homeowners in the
area and the upkeep of homes is so much better.
Conger questions #2 under the zoning code changes regarding rear yard setback and establish a
minimum amount of impervious surface and to keep structures and additions consistent with house -scale
dimensions in single family neighborhoods and ensure a minimum amount of rear yard space is
preserved as usable open space. Hightshoe stated basically the intent is so that a landlord can't pave
the whole backyard to increase occupancy.
Lamkins likes the housing code and enforcement proposals. He does not agree with the rental permit
cap. Vaughan liked that an owner could not convert hallways and dining rooms into bedrooms.
Eastham moved to recommend to Council to adopt the housing code, zoning, enforcement and
additional housing code changes as specified in the 9/14/2017 staff memo, Recommendations for
Addressing Neighborhood Stability Post HF134. McKinstry seconded the motion and it passed 8-
0.
Eastham moved to recommend to Council that the recommendation under Rental Permit Limits,
#2 from the Recommendations for Addressing Neighborhood Stability Post HF134 staff memo, not
be adopted. The commission does not recommend any spacing requirements in the impact
area. Fixmer-Oraiz seconded the motion and it was approved 8-0.
On the item of the cap on rental permits, Lamkins still feels it is a taking to accomplish a wider
neighborhood benefit on the backs of a few homeowners. Conger believes there needs to be something
that will trigger exceptions though an administrative process. Lamkins stated he would not be
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 30, 2017
Page 6 of 7
comfortable waiting for administrative approvals when the homeowner wants to sell as they won't know if
the buyer can get them. In would have to be specific, in these cases, a rental permit is allowed.
The Commission discussed various concerns about the rental permit cap but also knowing that areas
may become 100% rental if no caps were set.
McKinstry moved to recommend to Council that the recommendation under Rental Permit Limits,
#1 (establish a cap on rental permits) from the Recommendations for Addressing Neighborhood
Stability Post HF134 staff memo, be adopted; however, the policy should allow administrative
approval on a case by case basis as it relates to a loss of substantial value for owner -occupied
homes surrounded by rental property. Conger seconded and it was approved 7-1. (Lamkins
opposed.)
STAFF/COMMISSION COMMENT:
Eastham is interested in the Commission asking the City Rental Inspection system to require landlords to
provide information on the pricing of all their rental units. There is currently no one database that shows
that information. It would assist with efforts to provide affordable renting options. Hightshoe said this
could be added to the agenda for next month.
Hightshoe announced that Kris Ackerson's last day at the City is Wednesday, November 1. She will be
covering until a replacement is hired.
Hightshoe stated that they narrowed their Invest Health initiatives to two projects. Staff applied for a
Mayor's Challenge Grant for affordable, quality child care with potential partners including the County,
Kirkwood, 4C's and a non-profit child care provider. The second project is a mental health facility, holistic
care. Hightshoe described the child care grant application and noted that Iowa leads the nation in the
number of available parents working outside the home with the least childcare spots.
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Fixmer-Oraiz moved to adjourned. Conger seconded, a vote was taken and the motion passed.
City of Iowa City
FY19 Funding Allocation Timeline
Dates Subject to Change
2017
December 6 Public notice that CDBG and HOME applications are available
2018
January 4 CDBG/HOME Applicant Workshop, Emma Harvat Hall, City Hall, 11:00 AM
January 19 Applications due to City of Iowa City by 12 noon
February 15 HCDC meeting: question/answer discussion with CDBG and HOME applicants.
Applicants are invited to attend.
February 22 HCDC ranking forms due to City staff
March 8 HCDC meeting: review of groupings and consensus funding scenario. Make
recommendation to City Council on CDBG/HOME funding awards.
April 1 30-day comment period begins for draft Annual Action Plan
April 19 HCDC meeting: review Annual Action Plan and recommendation to City Council
April 30 30-day comment period ends for the draft Annual Action Plan
May 1 City Council: public meeting for the Annual Action Plan and resolution. If
needed, joint HCDC/City Council meeting
July 1 Execute CDBG and HOME agreements with grant recipients
tr
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Applicant Guide
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Programs
This guide outlines requirements for applicants seeking Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
and/or HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) program funds through the City of Iowa City.
Notes to applicants
1) HCDC strongly encourages all applicants to attend the CDBG/HOME Applicant Workshop (see
Application Timeline below).
2) First consideration for funding will go to housing (not including CHDO operating expenses) and
public facility projects of $50,000 or more. No more than two public facility projects will be
awarded funding.
3) The application (and the pro forma for housing applications) must be substantially complete for
HCDC consideration. The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) will not
review any materials submitted by the applicant after the deadline unless the Commission
requests it.
4) Please review the City's Strategic Plan (www.icgov.orq/strategicolan) to determine if your project
fits into the identified priorities. If so, please identify in the application.
Application Timeline
1) Applicant workshop at Emma Harvat Hall, City Hall
2) Applications Due
3) HCDC Meeting — Question/Answer with Applicants
4) HCDC Meeting Recommendations
January 4, 2018 at 11:00 AM
January 19, 2018 at 12 PM
February 15 at 6:30 PM
March 8 at 6:30 PM
Part I. Estimated Federal Funding Available
In FY19 the City of Iowa City is expecting to have available approximately $1,308,000 in federal funds
(including entitlements and program income) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD). The City has approximately $570,000 available for allocation to recipients after
Council set -asides have been removed for economic development, owner -occupied housing
rehabilitation, administration, neighborhood infrastructure, and aid to agencies. Of the $570,000
available, approximately $496,000 must be used for HOME eligible activities, which focus on affordable
housing activities: rehabilitation or new construction of rental housing, tenant based rent assistance, and
homeownership opportunities. The HOME program requires not less than 15% of the HOME
entitlement be reserved for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs). In FY19 this
set -aside is approximately $64,000.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
Part II. Application Requirements and Considerations
Applicants should evaluate the following HUD guidelines as well as City policies contained in CITY
STEPS when considering the types of proposals, funding estimates, and time schedules for achieving
their program/project goals.
Ineligible Activities
The following types of activities that are ineligible include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Public service eligible activities such as operations or salaries.
• Buildings for general conduct of government and expenses required to conduct the regular
responsibilities of local government, e.g. street maintenance, public buildings for
government.
• Political, religious and lobbying activities, income payments, such as rent assistance and
mortgage payments. HOME only: tenant based rent assistance is an allowable activity.
• CDBG only: New housing construction, except for residential facilities providing shelter for
persons with special needs (homeless shelters, convalescent homes, halfway houses, and
group homes).
• Purchase of construction equipment.
NOTE: The purchase or lease of furnishings, equipment, or other personal property (such as vehicles)
needed for an eligible public service is eligible only under the CDBG public service category; however,
the City will not be considering public service activities under this allocation process. Additional
requirements and CDBG award limitations may apply, please contact Neighborhood Services staff to
discuss.
Eligible Activities
a. Activities that can be carried out with CDBG funds include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Acquiring real property, demolishing structures and clearing property, and relocation
assistance for residents of property being demolished.
• Rehabilitation or preservation of residential and nonresidential structures, including
weatherization, painting, accessibility improvements, emergency repairs and comprehensive
rehabilitation.
Construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities,
infrastructure repairs and installation of curb ramps, construction of neighborhood centers
and installation of accessible playground equipment.
b. Activities that can be carried out with HOME funds include the following:
Acquisition of real property (including Homeownership Assistance), payment of "soft" costs
associated with a project, demolition and clearing property, site and infrastructure improve-
ments, and relocation assistance for persons being displaced by a HOME activity.
Rehabilitation or preservation of residential structures (comprehensive rehabilitation only).
Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) for a period of up to 24 months.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 2
• New construction of affordable housing units (rental or owner -occupied).
• Operational expenses and Capacity Building for Community Housing Development Organi-
zations (CHDOs) within the limit of 5% of Iowa City's HOME allocation.
National Objective
ALL proposals must benefit low -moderate income individuals.
a. CDBG Funds
The National Objective of the CDBG Program is the "development of viable urban communities
by providing decent housing and suitable living environments, and expanding economic
opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income." At least 51% of the program
beneficiaries (persons or households) must have incomes at or below 80% of the local median
income category. [For programs that directly fund individual households (e.g. housing rehab), all
of the households must earn less than 80% of the median household income.]
Applicants must document that the National Objective is being met. While the CDBG program
allows self -certification of income, the household must certify their income with their signature.
HUD also requires that a certain percentage of the participants provide source documentation
such as pay stubs or a Social Security statement to further verify the household's income. This
source documentation must be kept in the client's file and is subject to monitoring when City or
HUD staff review the client files. The City must approve this percentage based on the program
and number of beneficiaries usually set between two and five percent.
b. HOME Funds
The national objective of the HOME program is the provision of safe and decent affordable
housing. All activities undertaken with HOME funds must benefit persons or households below
80% of median family income and 90% of the HOME assisted units must be targeted to persons
and/or households below 60% of the median family income.
Median household income limits for HOME -funded projects in Iowa City:
Income Limits Effective Juno 15, 2017
3016 Median Incnane
Household
Extremely LOW
5055 Median Income
GO%Median Income
80% Median Income
Size
Income
Very l.oa Income
Low Income
1
$18,250
$30,400
$36,480
$47,600
2
$20,850
$31,750
$41,700
$54,400
3
$23,450
$39,100
$44920
$61,200
4
$26,050
$43,100
$52,080
$68,000
5
$28,150
$46,900
$56,280
$73,450
6
$30,250
$50,350
$60,420
$78,900
7
$32,350
$53,850
b64,8'40
$84,350
8
$34,400
$57,300
VA760
$89'sw
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
The CDBG statute pertaining to the low -moderate income national objective specifies criteria for deter-
mining low- and moderate -income benefit.
a. The activity must be carried out in an area or neighborhood consisting predominantly of low -
moderate income persons, or the activity must involve facilities or services designed for use
predominantly by low -moderate income persons. Demographic information is available at the
Neighborhood & Development Services Department. In some instances, applicants may need to
conduct a survey of the potential beneficiaries to determine income eligibility.
b. Housing that is being improved, as part of a project must be occupied predominantly by low -
moderate income persons.
c. Job creation or retention as an activity must involve employment of predominantly low and
moderate -income persons.
Performance Schedule and Payment
Reimbursements can be made after the contract has been formalized. Expenses incurred before July 1.
2018 or before a contract has been entered may not be reimbursable and may jeopardize all the
CDBG/HOME funds awarded to the oroiect. Disbursements can be made upon receipt of 1) invoices for
labor, materials and services rendered, and 2) signed lien waivers (as appropriate) covering all amounts
to be paid. In some instances, pre -agreement costs may be reimbursed to applicants; however,
Neighborhood Services staff must be contacted prior to making any pre -agreement disbursements to
verify if the cost may be reimbursed. In case of minor cost overruns or requests for additional funding,
the City Manager and staff may approve a contract amendment that is non -substantial. In the case of
substantial changes (as defined in the Citizen Participation Plan) the Housing and Community
Development Commission and City Council must approve the change and an amended agreement is
required.
Budget Considerations
In estimating the amount of the proposal or the project budget, applicants should try to obtain
documentation for the costs and consider the following expenses:
• Appraisals, legal fees, title opinions and surveying costs for property acquisition projects.
• Building permits, engineering or surveying costs, zoning application fees, professional fees,
advertising and bidding costs for rehabilitation and building projects.
• HOME funds are required to be matched at the rate of one match dollar for each four HOME
dollars or 25% of the HOME funds being requested. The City has made a commitment to
match local HOME dollars, however, we also expect applicants for local HOME funds to
contribute to meeting this matching contribution (see HOME regulations for eligible forms of
match).
• The City requests that applicants leverage private funding, volunteers, and in -kind
contributions whenever possible and to include this information on your application. These
contributions are worth points in the ranking sheets and are included in HCDC's evaluation of
your application.
Construction estimates should be realistic. Funds remaining after the proposed work is
completed will revert back to the CDBG line of credit.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
Applicants can apply for grants and/or loans.
Other project costs such as compliance with HUD regulations (audits, labor standards,
environmental studies, fair housing, etc.) listed in Part III below should also be included.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
14CDC Morriber:
1 Need Priority (max. 10 paints)
t HvY: GS E;1 Las tlw upplicunt documented the ability of the project to
meet nood(s) xlentified in C1TY ST FPS?
A. Leveraging Rasourcras'Budget (max. 50 polntsl
1 Does the protect have realistic cost estimates. including bid3?
2' Does the project leverage oommunly partnerships and or volunteer
irsuufues?
Points
0-10 Points
0-5 Points
0-5 Points
:i Does firs project leverage other nr:;rnaal resources? i Matohinq funds:
0-2f*r. = 0- 10 pts
26-50%= ) 1-20 pis
5 115% = 2'1.30 pts
7n-wail = I1-dn nre
Hl. FeasibilitylNeed for Subsidy (max. 10 points)
I Ho-w wall has the applicant demonstrated the requested level 0-3 Points
.of public subsidy, is necessary fpnvate btt.w funds not available)?
2 Does the project schedula adequately demonstrate the project w it be 0-3 Points
completed within the requiredbins ms peripd� _
3 Does the project provide a long-term solution to the need identified? 0-4 Points
Subtotal
IV Impactl®eneflt (max. 20 points)
I What primary percent of median income persons are targeted?
Guide:
0-30% = 10 Pis
31-Wo = 6 pis
51-60% = 4 pis
6I-Wo= Iprt_
2 Dues the project have a ieasonabte per-pef son cost compared to
0-5 Points
other projects of similar scapelcost?
3 Dries thei pm ect serve a reasonnble number of people compared to
0-5 Points
other projects of similar- see eicmA?
Subtotal
V CapacityiHlstory (max. 10 points)
1 Does the orgonizaton have the capacrty to complete the project,
0-10 Points
proven either by pi or pi olect completion or cutrent expel t staffing?
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
PART III. Housing
Additional Information Requirements. Before an applicant may enter an agreement with the City, the
applicant must submit updated information such as, but not limited to, the project schedule, sources
and uses statement, construction budget (if applicable), and pro forma (if applicable). All other
funding sources must be identified and verification submitted to the City to complete a subsidy
layering analysis when multiple public funding sources are utilized.
Appraised Value at Proiect Completion. Each housing project, except minor home repairs, funded
with CDBG and/or HOME funds must have an appraised value at project completion that
demonstrates adequate equity to secure any liens.
Site Location. One of the City's goals is to encourage the distribution of housing and residential
facilities (e.g. permanent housing — rental and homeownership, transitional housing, homeless
shelters, and special needs housing) throughout Iowa City. See the attached Affordable Housing
Location Model to view where new City -assisted rental housing may be located. The map is also
available at www.ic.ov.org/actionplan.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
I
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Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 7
PART IV. Compliance with Federal Regulatory Requirements
All CDBG/HOME contracts include requirements imposed by various Federal -sponsoring agencies.
These include procurement standards for labor, materials, supplies and services not only related to the
project but also to the applicant's operation.
• Procurement standards and subcontracting requirements are set forth in 2 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) Part 200. The following list briefly describes the main points in contracting for
services and purchasing supplies and materials.
Affirmative efforts shall be made to utilize small and minority -owned businesses or sources of
supplies and services. Conflict of Interest rules will also apply.
Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 shall comply with the Fair Labor Standards Acts.
Specifically, 1) the Davis -Bacon Act which requires contractors to pay wages to laborers and
mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination made
by the Secretary of Labor, 2) Copeland Anti -Kick Back Act which prohibits employers from
inducing employees to give up any part of the compensation to which they are otherwise entitled,
and 3) the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act which requires contractors to
compute wages on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the
standard workweek shall be permissible if the worker is compensated at a rate of 1'/ times the
basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the workweek. No worker shall be
required to work in unsanitary, dangerous or hazardous surroundings.
Contracts over $10,000 shall contain requirements relating to Equal Employment Opportunity.
• Provisions for termination shall also be included in all contracts.
• Records should be kept for all procurements. Construction projects Tor more than $150,000
must utilize the competitive sealed bids (formal advertisement) method of procurement.
Procurement by small purchase procedures shall be utilized for projects $150,000 or less. Price
or rate quotations shall be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources under this
method.
• Contracts in excess of $25,000 shall contain provisions and conditions that allow for
administrative, contractual or legal remedies in instances in which contractors violate or breach
contract terms.
• Contracts in excess of $100,000 shall meet bonding and Section 3 requirements. Minimum bond
requirements include: bid guarantee equal to 5% of bid price, performance bond for 100% of
contract price and payment bond for 100% of contract price.
• Provisions regarding federal regulations on Non-discrimination, Equal Employment, Affirmative
Marketing and Fair Housing.
• Acquisition, Displacement and Relocation are also contained in the Agreement.
• Lead Based Paint regulations regarding interim controls and abatement may also apply
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
PART V. Financial Management
Standards for financial management and record keeping are provided in 2 CFR Part 200. Local
accountants and agency directors experienced with federal requirements may be helpful resources.
Each recipient shall have a financial management system that provides effective control over and
accountability for all funds, property, and other assets, must identify the source and application of
funds for federally -sponsored activities, and permit the accurate, complete, and timely disclosure of
financial results in accordance with the reporting requirements of the City and HUD.
• A separate ledger for the CDBG and/or HOME account is strongly recommended.
• Appropriate time distribution records must be kept for employees paid with CDBG funds in addition
to other funds.
• All project -related expenditures must be supported by third party documentation (invoices, contracts,
and purchase orders). Lien waivers are required from all contractors and subcontractors.
• Reductions in project costs or increases in the commitment of other funding, if any, shall be brought
to the immediate attention of staff. The impacts of these changes must be discussed with staff and
appropriate reductions in CDBG and/or HOME funds may be made on a pro -rated, case -by -case
basis.
PART VI. Reporting and Monitoring
Neighborhood Services staff will monitor all aspects of the project beginning with pre -agreement
activities, goal setting to project closeout. Any project changes must be approved by the City.
All notices and reports should be directed to:
Neighborhood Services
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Periodically, Neighborhood Services staff and HCDC members will conduct monitoring visits to review
project progress, financial management, construction contracts, time records related to the project, as
well as client statistics. Staff will attempt to give reasonable notice prior to the site visit.
In most cases, a financial audit of the project expenditures will be required. Qualified individuals who are
sufficiently independent of the agency and can produce unbiased opinions and conclusions should
conduct these audits. Audit reports should be submitted within six months of project completion and final
disbursement of funds.
For organizations that expect to receive more than $750,000 in federal assistance from all sources are
required to have an audit covering the financial activities of the organization as well as the project
disbursements will be required as set forth in 2 CFR Part 200.
For CDBG projects, all records relating to the project should be kept at least four years after the
submission of the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) in which the
activity is reported as complete. The CDBG Agreement should be retained until the end of the
compliance period.
For HOME projects, all records shall be maintained as required in 92.508 Recordkeeping depending on
the type of project (rental, homeownership, or tenant -based rental assistance).
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide
The City of Iowa City requires quarterly reports and has a standardized reporting Torm. For rental and
homeownership projects, the applicant must complete project close-out forms and submit to the City
upon project completion. The period of affordability does not begin until the City has been notified and
the data entered into HUD's information and management system (IDIS). The compliance period will
vary depending upon the regulatory requirements of the CDBG and/or HOME program and the
information contained within the CDBG/HOME application. During the compliance period, Neighborhood
Services staff will request records relating to the stated purpose of the project to see if goals have been
carried out, to review the low and moderate income benefit requirements as established by HUD, and to
monitor the financial status of the organization.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 10
Summary of Priority Needs (2016-2020 CITY STEPS)
For the five-year period of 2016 through 2020, the City has identified the following as priority needs
for CDBG & HOME funding. Your application must meet an identified need to be funded.
PUBLIC FACILITIES:
Matrix
Priority:
Code:
HUD Category
Child Care
03M
Child Care Centers
Chronic Substance Abuse
03P
Health Facilities
Domestic Violence
03C
HomelessFaciliities
Elderly
03A
Senior Centers
Employment Training
3
Public Facility
Homeless Services
03C
Homeless Facilities
Mentally III
03P
Health Facilities
Persons with Disabilities
03B
Handicapped Centers
Persons with HIV/AIDS
03S
Facilities for AIDS Patients
Transportation
3
Public Facility
Youth Services (unaccompanied vouth Inc.)
03D
Youth Centers
PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE: (Set -Aside)
Matrix
Priority:
Code:
HUD Category
Serve primarily non -student LMI
03L
Sidewalk Improvements (inc. curb cuts)
Census Tracts
03K
Street Improvements (Inc. street lights)
03E
Neighborhood Facilities
03F
Parks, Recreational Facilities
031
Flood, Drainage Improvement
03N
Tree Planting
01
Acq. of Real Property
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: (Set -Aside)
Matrix
Priority:
Code:
HUDCategory
Micro -enterprise Development
18C
Micro -Enterprise Assistance
Rehab; Publicly or Privately Owned
Fa ade Improvements (URA)
14E
Commercial
HOUSING:
Matrix
Priority:
Code:
HUD Category
Expand Affordable Rental Housing:
01
Acquisition of Real Property
Development
12
Construction of Housing
Acquistion or Rehabilitation
14G
Acq. for Rehabilitation
Tenant Based Rent Assistance
05S
Rental Housing Subsidies
05T
Security Deposits (homeless)
Expand Owner Housing__
Downpayment
13
Direct Homeownership Assistance
Preserve Rental & Owner Housing
� Rehabilitation
14A&B
Rehabilitation (includesaccessibliry)
14F
Energy Assistance Improvements
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 11
Resolution 04-68, Approved 3/2/04
Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects Policy
From time to time there may be Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and/or HOME Investment
Partnership Program (HOME) projects that do not meet the anticipated schedule for implementation as
presented to the Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC). These circumstances may
be due to unforeseen events (e.g. unfunded applications for other financing).
HCDC recognizes the need to utilize CDBG, HOME and other funding as effectively and efficiently as
possible to meet the needs of low -moderate income household for housing, jobs and services within
Iowa City.
To assist HCDC in evaluating a project's status and ability to proceed the following policy is hereby
adopted to begin with Fiscal Year'04 projects beginning July 1, 2003:
All CDBG and HOME projects will have entered into a formal agreement with the City of Iowa
City for the utilization of federal funds by September 30 each year. Should a recipient fail to
meet this threshold, the project will be reviewed by HCDC to evaluate if extenuating
do not warrant an extension of time. HCDC may recommend the recapture and re -use of the
funds to the City Council.
2. All CDBG projects (except applicants for LIHTCs) will have expended a minimum of fifty percent
(50%) of the assistance provided for the proposed project by March 15 each year. This provides
the recipient with approximately 255 days following the start of the fiscal year to reach this
threshold for CDBG projects. All HOME projects will expend their funds on a timely basis per
the applicable HOME regulation. Should a recipient fail to meet these thresholds, all
unexpended CDBG/HOME funding will be recaptured by the City of Iowa City and
recommendations be made by the HCDC for re -use of the funds or HCDC may allow the
recipient to retain the funds for the previously approved project.
3. If housing projects are applying for other funds through various state or federal agencies, the
recipient must apply for those funds in the first available application period offered. Should a
recipient fail to meet this application threshold, all CDBG/HOME funding will be recaptured by
the City of Iowa City and recommendations be made by the HCDC for re -use of the funds.
4. Should a recipient be unsuccessful in obtaining the funds listed in the application in the
application round immediately following the allocation of local CDBG/HOME funds, and the
project will not be able to proceed without the aforementioned funds, all CDBG/HOME funds will
be recaptured by the City of Iowa City and recommendations be made by the HCDC for re -use
of the funds or HCDC may allow the recipient to retain the funds for the previously approved
project. If the project is unsuccessful in obtaining the required funds listed in the application
after two consecutive funding rounds following the allocation of local CDBG/HOME funds, the
City of Iowa City will recapture all CDBG/HOME funds.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 12
Resolution 10-393, Approved 9/7/2010
CDBG and HOME Program Investment Policies
Economic Development
Economic development projects making application to the CDBG Economic Development Fund will be
reviewed by the Council Economic Development Committee. The Council Economic Development Committee
will make a recommendation to the City Council for each project proposed for funding. Said recommendation
shall include the amount of CDBG assistance to be allocated and the terms of investment.
Typically, for -profit business projects will receive low -interest loans; whereas, non -profits may be
recommended for forgivable loans or grants. Decisions regarding investment terms for economic development
projects will be made based on the nature of the project including, but not limited to, the risk, potential for
growth, the number of and quality of jobs created for low -moderate income persons, the ability to repay a loan
and the amount of other funding leveraged.
Housing
Rental Housing. Except as noted below, the interest rate for rental housing activities will be zero percent (0%)
for non-profit owned projects and prime rate (determined at the time the CDBG/HOME agreement is executed
by the City) minus two points for for -profit owned projects with an amortization period up to thirty (30) years or
the period of affordability, whichever is less.
Homeownership. Each year Iowa City adopts resale/recapture provisions that apply to all HOME assisted
homebuyer projects. The recapture/resale provisions shall be the same for both CDBG and HOME assisted
homebuyer projects. These provisions are set forth in the Annual Action Plan for the year the funds were
allocated to the Subrecipient/Recipient.
Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA). All HOME funds provided for TBRA will be in the form of a grant.
Exceptions. The City may grant a different interest rate and/or a different repayment option based on the nature
of the project including, but not limited to, the revenue generated, the ability to repay a loan, the type of housing
provided, the beneficiaries, the amount of other funding leveraged and the location of the site.
Public Facilities
The City of Iowa City, as the recipient of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, utilizes
these funds for "public facilities" projects as defined in 24 CFR 570.201 (c) that are completed by the City
and/or subrecipients. The following policy applies to CDBG assistance provided to non -governmental
subrecipients ("governmental' includes only jurisdictions with taxing authority as provided for in Iowa
Code).
Projects that receive an allocation by the City of Iowa City will receive an earned grant, as defined herein,
which will be secured by a mortgage or other comparable security instrument. The compliance term of the
earned grant will be determined by the formula also provided herein. At the end of the applicable compliance
term the lien or other security instrument will be released by the City. If the real property is leased, the lease
shall be for a period that matches or exceeds the compliance term of the earned grant.
Earned Grant: A lien against the real property being assisted, or other comparable security, which is
repaid only upon transfer of title, rental of the property, or termination of services or occupancy as
outlined in the applicable CDBG Agreement. If the subrecipient fully satisfies the terms outlined in the
applicable CDBG Agreement the mortgage against the property, or other security instrument, will be
released by the City following the completion of the compliance period that begins on the date of
execution of the mortgage or security instrument.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 13
Earned Grant Formula: The total amount of CDBG assistance allocated to a subrecipient in any one
City fiscal year for a "public facility" project divided by $10,000 equals the number of CDBG compliance
years for the Earned Grant. (For example: $20,000 in CDBG assistance divided by $10,000 would
equal a compliance term of 2 years or 24 months). If the Earned Grant Formula results in a compliance
term of less than one year (12 months) the minimum compliance term shall be one year (12 months).
The maximum compliance term for any CDBG assistance shall be no more than twenty (20) years.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 14
� r
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Application for FY2019 CDBG/HOME
funds
■ Review the Application Guide that follows this application form below.
■ All applications must be typed and 11 point font or larger. Page limits depend on
project type:
o Applications may not exceed 14 pages (18 pages including the 20-year
pro forma for housing projects).
■ Housing projects (acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction)
MUST complete and submit the pro forma (excel format) provided
by the City with this application. Housing applications submitted
without the City's pro forma will not be considered.
■ Please remember that only one project proposal may be submitted on each
application. Use separate applications for each project proposal.
■ Email the completed application to trace-hiahtshoe(CDiowa-citV.org. Emailed
applications must receive a confirmation email from City staff before the application
deadline to be considered for funding. Email is preferred but you may send your
application by certified or registered mail; overnight delivery service e.g., Federal
Express; deliver in person and have the application date/time stamped by a
Neighborhood Services representative.
General Information
1. Project Name and Address:
2. Type of Project (check one): O Homeownership O Rental* O Tenant Based Rent Asst.
O Rehabilitation* O Other
*Rental and Rental Rehabilitation projects require the completion of rental housing pro forma
I Lead Applicant Name:
Applicant Address:
Contact Person, Title:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
E-mail Address:
DUNS Number (must obtain if funded):
4. Secondary Applicant (if applicable):
Applicant Address:
Contact Person, Title:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
E-mail Address:
5. Type of Applicant (check one):
O Community Housing Development Organization O Private non-profit organization
O Private for -profit, individual or partnership applicant O Public Organization
6. Amount of HOME Funds Requested: $
7. Did you attend an Applicant Workshop? O No
O Yes, attended on January 4, 2018
8. Provide a brief, one paragraph description of the proposed project:
9. Please specify the one or two most applicable priority need(s) this application addresses, as
shown in the 2016-2020 CITY STEPS Plan, and explain how this project will meet this/those
need(s).
10. Provide the requested loan terms and affordability period:
Loan
Affordability
Principal
Interest
Amortization
Period
Yearly
Amount
Rate
(Years)
(Years)
Payment
erms $
F
equested*
*Financing terms will be based on project feasibility and the ability to repay the loan. Terms approved by City
Council may be different than what is requested.
11a. Please complete the table below showing the types and amounts of funding being
requested for the proposed project. Please check the appropriate box if the funding
source is committed. If not a loan, leave loan terms blank. If not committed, please
indicate when the applicant will apply for funds in Question 15.
Funding Source & Type:
Amount
Int. rate
Amortization
Term
Committed?
Iowa City HOME Funding
(public)
$
OYes ONo
State of Iowa HOME or
CDBG (public)
$
OYes ONo
IFA— Low Income
Housing Tax Credits
(public)
$
OYes ONo
Bank Loan (private)
$
OYes ONo
Applicant Contribution of
Equity (private)
$
OYes ONo
Other Public Resources
(please list)
$
OYes ONo
Other Private Resources
(please list)
$
OYes ONo
Total
$
11 b. Please provide the uses of funds for the project.
Uses of Funds (if applicable)
Cost
estimate
received?
y/n
Amount
Name of entity providing
cost estimate
Acquisition:
Building Acquisition
$
Land Acquisition
$
Site Improvements
$
Construction / Rehabilitation
$
Professional Fees
$
Construction Finance
$
Permanent Finance
$
Developer Fee / Overhead
$
Reserves
$
Other (please specify):
$
Total (Must equal total in 11 a)
$
Amount of Private Funds
Amount of Public Funds
Total Project Funding
Number of bedrooms or persons served
Total Cost Per bedroom or person served
11c. What percentage of the proposed budget will be made up of private funds?
(a)
(b)
(c) a + b
(d)
(e) c + d
12. Describe any community partnerships or volunteers that will contribute to the project.
13. Describe any identity of interest (101) relationships with the applicant and/or project owner,
i.e. General Partner has a financial interest in the construction company, etc.
14. Program regulations require a minimum 25% match for HOME funding. Describe how your
organization or the proposed project will help the City of Iowa City meet this match
requirement for local HOME funds.
Local HOME funds requested: $ x .25 = $ Local Match
15. Briefly outline the proposed timetable for the commitment and expenditure of the funding
being requested (include other project factors such as rezoning, construction schedule, or
application(s) for other funding). If applicant plans to apply for funds not committed to the
project yet, include the anticipated date for application. If funded, this schedule will be
used for any project agreement for the use of HOME funding.
17. To help promote the efficient use of federal, state, and local funding, please describe how
the project will maintain long-term (in excess of CDBG/HOME program requirements) or
permanent affordability or public assistance; and describe how the project will provide for
affordable housing or public assistance at rates or prices lower than those in the existing
market.
18. In what manner or form will the project proceed if it is awarded less than full funding? If
there are several components, how will they be prioritized?
19. Please indicate the number of persons that will be served by the proposed project by
income category. (The information in this table will be used as income targeting for tl
Housing
0 - 30% median income households (a)
31 — 50% median income households (b)
51 — 60% median income households (c)
61 - 80% median income households (d)
Over 80% median income households (a)
Total households (f)
Percent LMI (a+b+c+d) + f
20. Please list amount of CDBG and/or HOME funds received within the last four City fiscal
years and the status of the project(s) undertaken.
Fiscal Year Funds Recv'd
Budgeted
Amount
Amount Expended
(as of December 31)
Date Project
Completed
July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015
$
$
July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016
$
$
July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017
$
$
July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018
$
$
*Six months remaining in FY18 at time of this application.
21. Is the applicant (including partners, co -applicants, etc.) currently in compliance with all
federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations, including any CDBG and/or HOME
funded projects?
O Yes O No
If "NO" or a matter is currently in litigation please provide the name of the case and explain the basis
for the case.
22. Please describe the education and experience of the key staff who will be implementing
the project. Staff does not include volunteers, board members and consultants. If utilized,
please identify what role a consultant will play in the development of this project.
23. Please describe your organization's structure, officers, and staff.
24. Please provide a summary of your organization's portfolio. Include how many rental units
you own/manage, how many homes you have built/rehabilitated/sold and what projects are
in the pipeline.
25. Please identify the relevant market factors that will assist the City in verifying the demand
for the proposed housing based on the City of Iowa City HOME Market Analysis Policy for
New Rental Construction, Rental Rehab. & Acquisition of Existing Homes (rental), or New
Owner -Occupied Home Construction & Acquisition of Existing Homes (owner -occupied). If
the project is large or complicated, the City may require a Market Analysis to support the
project before entering a legally binding agreement for funds. This policy is not applicable
to projects requesting funds for tenant based rental assistance, homeowner rehabilitation,
downpayment assistance and CHDO operating expenses.
1 1 a
r
Cm' of Iowa CITY CITY OF IOWA CITY
INFORMATIONAL DISCLOSURE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM
City of Iowa City, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52240
Call Housing and Inspection Services for questions at (319) 356-5130
www.icgov.org/housing
Note: All information must be entered on form. "SEE LEASE" entries are not acceptable.
1. Unit Address:
2. City Website. The website for the City of Iowa City is www.icaov.orR and it provides extensive information about the City of
Iowa City and its services. To access information concerning the Department of Housing and Inspection Services, including
the Rental Housing Inspection Division, go to www.ictzov.org/housine. To access the City Code, click on
www.icaov.orjz/citvcoc1e.
3. Occupancy. The maximum occupants/tenants for this unit are _ unrelated persons. Maximum occupancy is available on
the Housing and Inspection Services web page on the City website at the link entitled "rental permit" (htti)://www.iowa-
city.org/icgov/al2ps/gen/rentals.asi) . Nothing in this document prevents the owner or operator from limiting the number of
tenants to less than the maximum allowable occupancy permitted by the City Code.
4. Tenants. The names of the tenants, including those under 18 years of age, who may occupy this unit:
Name of Tenant
Name of Tenant
5. Fines. The undersigned acknowledge that we are responsible for complying with the maximum occupancy limits of the City
Code and that the City Code provides that violation of the maximum occupancy limit can result in a $750.00 fine for the first
violation (the City Code also provides that each day is considered a new violation) to the owner, operator, and/or tenant.
6. Sleeping Rooms. Basements, attics, and other rooms cannot be used as sleeping rooms if they do not comply with
requirements for windows, exits, square footage, and other Housing Code requirements.
Basement is: ❑Habitable ❑Non -Habitable
Attic is: ❑Habitable ❑Non -Habitable
7. Trash/Recycling. Complete this only if this unit has four (4) dwelling units or less. Trash and recycling pickup for this unit is
(day of the week). City Code section 16-3H-9D provides that garbage receptacles can be brought to the curb
after 3 PM the day before pickup and must be brought back to the property on the same day as collection. If the City has
provided a "refuse cart' (i.e., City garbage can) it must be used. If the City has not provided a "refuse cart" each unit can
place up to two 35-gallons containers for pickup, and the containers must be stored (when not at the curb for collection) at an
approved location (sideyard or backyard). Note: In neighborhoods where new "refuse carts" have been delivered, their use is
required. Compliance with the collection and storage requirements for refuse carts is the same as any other solid waste
container. Additional garbage or oversized garbage can be picked up for an additional charge. Contact 356-5180 for specifics
on those charges. A City supplied blue recycling container or other approved container shall be used for recycling. Recycling
information is available online at www.iceov.org/earbaee or by telephoning 356-5180.
8. Parking. We acknowledge that we cannot park on the grass or across the public sidewalk and that the Landlord provides _
off-street paved parking spaces or other parking areas as approved by the City.
Noise/Disorderdv House. It is a simple misdemeanor (a crime, with a fine of $65 to $625 plus surcharge and court costs) to
keep a "disorderly house." Under Iowa City City Code section 8-5-5, a "disorderly house" is:
No person shall permit or suffer to continue, without taking legal steps to prevent the same, any quarreling, fight,
disorderly conduct, or other conduct or condition that threatens injury to person or damage, or loud, raucous,
disagreeable noises to the disturbance of the neighborhood or to the disturbance of the general public upon a premises
owned by the person or in the person's possession. For purposes of this Section, "to the disturbance of the general public"
includes the disturbance of persons beyond the subject premises and/or to the disturbance of person upon public places.
including peace officers.
Keeping a "disorderly house" is also a municipal infraction (civil offense) under section 8-5-5C punishable by a civil penalty
of $750 for the first offense and $1,000 for the second and subsequent offenses, plus court cost. Failure to answer the door
when the police arrive may result in a municipal infraction being issued to all tenants.
10. Snow and Grass. City Code section 16-IA-8A provides that snow must be removed within 24 hours of a 1-inch snowfall and
section 6-3-2 provides that lawns/grass/weeds cannot exceed 10 inches in height. Pursuant to the lease, we acknowledge that
the Tenant/Landlord (cross out one) is responsible for snow removal and the Tenant/Landlord (cross out one) is responsible
for mowing the grass. Regardless of the agreement between the landlord and the tenant, the City Code provides that the City
may hold the owner, operator, or tenant ultimately responsible, and violation of either section noted above can result in a fine
of $250.00 for the first violation and/or the City mowing the grass/shoveling the snow and assessing the cost of doing so to
the property owner.
11. Neighborhood Services Coordinator. Iowa City has a neighborhood services coordinator. For more information, call 356-
5237 or go to the City website(www.icgov.org/neighborhoodservicesl.
12. State Law. The Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Iowa Code Chapter 562A) can be found at the Iowa
City Public Library and can be accessed on the internet at www.legis.iowa.gov.
13. Rental Deposits. The Iowa law on rental deposits can be found at Section562A.12 of the Iowa Code. The landlord has the
right to withhold from the rental deposit (also called the security deposit) such amounts as are reasonably necessary to restore
the premises to the condition at the commencement of the tenancy, ordinary wear and tear excepted. The tenants need to
provide the landlord with the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions for return of the rental deposit. Additional
information related to leases, move -in, move -out, and checklist may be found on the website at
http://web.offearnpuspartners.com/1 16/resource/iowa/?p=tenant
We, the undersigned, have read the Informational Disclosure and Acknowledgment form and completed the blanks to the best of our
knowledge.
Date:
Tenant:
Date:
Tenant:
Tenant:
Date:
**Note** All tenants, except minor children of tenants, must sign
this form even if they have an oral rental agreement.
HisinsVnfor tional discios=2e12.doc
BROOKINGS
Tne Ayeeue
Yet more evidence that housing affordability is getting worse
Jenny Schuetz Tuesday, October 31, 2017
vidence continues to pile up revealing that housing affordability is getting worse, particularly for low-income households.flj
One of the latest examples, an analysis by Freddie Mac, examines rent changes for a sample of apartment buildings that the
company financed at least twice between 2010 and 2016.12) The bottom line: it wasn't easy for poor families to find an
apartment they could afford in 2010 - in fact, only 11.2 percent of unsubsidized apartments were affordable to very low income
households - and matters have gotten worse. In 2016, only 4.3 percent of units still met that standard. The data from Freddie Mac
suggest three other notable, troubling facts.
Affordability is worst for the poor, but middle -income families are also getting squeezed.
The Freddie Mac report focuses on the loss of units affordable to households making less than 50 percent of the median income within
their metropolitan area. These households have the least resources, so by definition are most constrained in their housing choices, and
policymakers (should) worry more about economically vulnerable families. But the data also hint that declining affordability isn't just a
problem for poor Americans. In the table below, I show the change in apartments that are affordable to median income households.
Nationally, the share orapartments available to median income families dropped by five percentage points.
Table 1: Change in apartments affordable to median income households, 2010-2016
1st
2nd
State
Units
Change
financing financing
Arizona
4,154
100.0%
100.0%
0.0%
California
4,776
73.4%
39.4%
34.0%
Colorado
5,128
100.0%
99.6%
0.4%
Florida
13.197 96,096
79.8%
16.2%
Georgia
9,766
96.4%
94.6%
1.8%
Nevada
3,564
99.7%
99.5%
0.2%
North
5,061
100.0%
99.7%
0.3%
Carolina
Texas 28,533 97.8% 95.2% 2.6%
Washington 3,262 91.7% 93.7% -2.0%
U.S. total 97,061 95.8% 90.6% 5.2%
Source: Author's calculations of Freddie Mac data.
The sample is Itrnitedto multifamily buildings that
Freddie Mac financed at least twice between 2010
and 2016, and measures changes in rents between
those two financings. U.S. total includesstates not
shown.
Overall, 90 percent of apartments are still affordable to families in the middle of the income distribution, but the trend is worth noting.
Even more important, there were very large declines in the share of apartments affordable to typical families in some states - see Florida
and California. Which leads me to the next point,..
If you aren't rich, don't move to California. Or maybe Florida either.
Not surprisingly, there are big geographic differences in housing affordability trends. (Freddie Mac's report doesn't dive deeply into
geography, probably because of sample size. It only discloses state -level numbers, and then only for a few states where the company had
the largest number of multifamily mortgages refinanced during this period, so the sample may not be representative). In addition to
Florida and California becoming substantially less affordable to median income households, the report highlights Colorado, North
Carolina, and Texas as states that saw the biggest declines in housing affordability for very low income households. The continuing
divergence in housing costs across parts of the U.S. reinforces other geographic divides, such as employment growth.[3] Worryingly,
some of the states (and cities) with the best prospects for job growth are already expensive, and are becoming increasingly hard for
typical families — and typical workers — to afford.
In measuring affordability, rents are only half of the equation.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's standard definition for housing affordability, which Freddie Mac uses in its
report, states that households should pay no more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs. This definition depends on both
rents and incomes, and therefore, decreasing rental affordability (including at the state or metropolitan area level) could come from an
increase in rent, a decrease in income, or differential rates of change in both. One of the strengths of Freddie's underlying analysis is
that it looks at rent changes for individual apartments. But the report only tells us the change in share of affordable units, not the
changes in rents themselves.
From a policy perspective, it's important to know what's driving the change in affordability
From a policy perspective, it's important to know what's driving the change in affordability, because appropriate interventions may
differ. If rents are increasing rapidly because of supply constraints or rising development costs, local governments might want to
streamline the development processor relax zoning. By contrast, if data indicates that declining affordability mostly results from
stagnant wages or declining working hours among low -skilled workers, then income supplements might be considered to be a more
direct policy solution. Housing advocates and researchers often rely on standard affordability measures because they area convenient
shorthand to those in the field. Altogether, thinking carefully about how we measure affordability will help us better understand the
underlying causes of the problem and design appropriate policy responses.
[1] http://www.jchs.harvard.edu/research/publitatfonslamericas-rental-housing-expanding-options-diverse-and-growing-demand
http://furmancenter.org/thestoop/entry/2017-national-rental-housing-landscape
[2] htrp://www.freddiemacmm/multifamily/pdf/rental_affordability_worseningpdf
The GSEs' multifamily portfolio may not be a representative sample of apartments, but the method is useful because itprovides information on
rent changes for the same apartment (constant quality), rather than observing changes in rentlevels, which may reflect changes in the
composition of the overall rental stock
13] https://www.nytimes.com/2Ol7/l0/24/business/economy/future-jobs.biml?
rref co Election%2Fsectioncollection%2Fbusiness&action=click&contentCoEiection=business®ion=rank&module=package&version=highlights
Tracy Hightshoe
From: Harry03 <Harry03@aol.com>
Senk Thursday, November 09, 2017 11:59 PM
To: Tracy Hightshoe
Subject: Fwd: Proposed Housing Code Changes -my opinion
Tracy: Please forward to the other commissioners.
Thanks,
HarryO
Sent from my Galaxy Tab® A
-------- original message --- ---
From: mg9425@mchsi.com
Date: 11/09/2017 1:47 PM (GMT-06:00)
To: Harry Olmstead <harryo3@aol.com>
Subject: Fwd: Proposed Housing Code Changes -my opinion
Hi Harry,
It was good to see you last night. Below are my comments to Iowa City about its proposed rental cap. I don't support it
for a lot of reasons. To me, it looks like a new version of redlining. I also don't like that over time, more people wig be
pushed into what is often more expensive TIF subsidized apartment units (favoring developers) --a person can usually
rent a room in a house for less money than living in a two bedroom TIF apartment. For example, a two bedroom
apartment at Riverview West (formerly EMRICO) is $1,400 per month to rent (at http://www.iowacityrent.com/ia/iowa-
city/5656091-riverview-west). And those 12 "affordable" (and I use this term loosely) apartments it was supposed to
have are still going to be less affordable than what a person can typically spend to rent a room in a house.
Further, the proposed rental cap will only apply to single family and duplexes. This is unfair.
John Thomas, an Iowa City council member, has spoken about wanting to put triplexes and quadriplexes (4 apartments)
in single family neighborhoods to increase density under form based zoning, which the city is likely to adopt at some
point. It is unfair and inequitable to tell the owner of a single family home they cannot rent to outside persons because
the owner of a single family home is subject to a rental cap and then not have the cap apply to triplexes and
quadriplexes, etc. If a cap is going to be adopted, it should apply to all types of housing, notjust single family
houses. Otherwise, Iowa City is favoring some investors (e.g. those with the money to build a quadriplex) over others.
The bottom line is the rental cap is unfair and could very well be unconstitutional.
If you have a chance, please read Cheryl Cruise's comments. I included a link below.
Thanks Harry. Mary
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: mg9425@mchsi.com
To: council@iowa-city.org
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2017 3:42:53 PM
Subject: Proposed Housing Code Changes -
Dear City Council Members,
I learned of your proposed ordinance from Iowa City's neighborhood council and am writing to voice my opposition to
the proposed housing code changes and request that you not support it. My reasons include but are not limited to the
following.
1. 1 agree with Cheryl Cruises' comments dated 9/18/17 that these changes are "anti -affordable housing" and
incorporate her comments into this email to the extent they apply to the city's proposed ordinance. Ms. Cruises' well
researched and reasoned comments can be found starting on page 32 at https://www8.lowa-
city.org/weblink/o/doc/1756167/Pagel.aspx
2. One consequence of your proposed housing ordinance is to make it more difficult for a Section 8 participant to find
rental housing around Horace Mann if they would like their children to attend school there --this is after the council
recently updated Iowa City's Human Rights ordinance to prohibit discrimination in housing based on public source of
income.
3. The proposed ordinance is unduly restrictive for many reasons, e.g. the requirement that no more than 35%of the
rental dwelling can be bedrooms is too restrictive.
4. Capping the percent of rental permits at 40% in certain areas of Iowa City will have the effect of pushing more rentals
from some Iowa City neighborhoods into other Iowa City neighborhoods.
"From the proposed ordinance
"Within the Rental Impact Area, the City shall not issue a rental permit for any single-family dwelling or duplex in a
Rental Permit District where the percentage of single- family dwellings and duplex units that have rental permits
exceeds 40% of the total numberof single-family and duplex units within said rental permit district, except as provided
herein. This limit shall be known as the rental permit cap. ****" See page 571 at https://www8.iowa-
city.org/we bli n k/0/edoc/1760860/2017-11-06%2OAge nda%20Packet. pdf
Currently, according to the map Iowa City provided earlier (p3 at https://www8.iowa-
city.org/weblink/0/doc/1756531/Pagel.aspx), Manville Heights & Parkview Terrace (Mosquito Flats) are at 21.5%, By
comparison, North Side is at 58% and College Green at 65.9%, etc. If a cap of 40% is enacted in the city's defined rental
impact area, it appears over time that more rental housing could be pushed from neighborhoods that are over 40% into
neighborhoods that are below 40% or outside the rental impact area, at least in the foreseeable future. And one
solution should NOT be to subsidize more TIF subsidized apartments.
5. Parents of college students whose child is a part owner of a rental home in Iowa City should be able to secure a
regular rental permit prior to selling their property.
I do have a question about how this proposed ordinance is intended to work with form based zoning in the future. Will
rental permits for houses be discouraged (e.g. capped at 40%) while duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes are later
permitted under form based zoning in single family neighborhoods where form based zoning is adopted?
Again, I do not support this proposed ordinance. Thank you for your service.
Sincerely,
Mary
Mary Murphy
890 Park PI.
Iowa City, IA 52246
319/400-7464
mg9425@mchsi.com