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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2006-2008HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, October 17, 2006 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — City Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, AId. Hansen Aid. Rainey, Coleen Burrus, Lisa James, Crawford Richmond, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey I. CALL TO ORDER There being a quorum, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m. Aid. Rainey introduced the new CDBG Administrator, Sarah Flax. H. 2007/08 CDBG PROGRAM Committee Review of Agency Applications First Base -Fisher Memorial AME Zion ChurchfFrech Start - Fired Base John Barrier Williams, Director gave the address of the Fresh Start -First Base program as 944 Elmwood Avenue, Fisher Memorial AME Zion Church. He introduced Rev. Warren Smith, the current minister, and Rev. H. E. Lane, Chair of the organizing committee for a new board, and Kathleen Gruber, member of the organizing committee. Mr. Barrier Williams said that he continues to provide the same services as in the past, working with the homeless and cx- offenders. He explained that this Agency tries to kind housing and employment for the homeless and ex-offendcrs, provides the homeless with a permanent address, and place to make phone calls and receive mail. If the applicant is willing, an assessment is done and affordable housing as well as employment is sought for them. He added that Fresh Start -First Base works with many other agencies in the community to provide the best services possible. Mr. Bamer Williams said that the Agency is getting more professionals on staff. The Agency is now independent of the church, and has its own independent board. Dave Schoenfeld said that he attended a talk today by Paul Biebel, one of the presiding judges of the Criminal Courts in Cook County, who identified reentry and recidivism as one of the major crises facing our society today. Mr. Schoenfeld commended Mr. Bamer Williams for the work he is doing, and asked for the number of ex -offenders served and the outcomes. Mr. Barrier Williams answered that from March 2005 to the end of February 2006, 662 people were signed in. Out of that, 100 were ex -offenders. He did not have the number of people for whom housing had been provided and offered to get back to the Committee with that number. Mr. Barrier Williams said that he works with a lot of families, the Agency's reputation gets around by word of mouth and he gets many phone calls from ex -offenders asking for help. Aid. Rainey said the Committee would like to know the specific outcomes for the people served and noted that if funding is granted for the next year this information would be necessary. She added that she would like Mr. Barrier Williams to give this information to the Committee for the months remaining in the current year. Crawford Richmond asked what signing in 600 clients means. Mr. Barner Williams said that all people sign in, whether new or returning. An application is done on new people. Coleen Burrus asked about a discrepancy in the other funding received numbers. Mr. Barner Williams replied that other funding includes donations from different churches, fund raisers and individual donations. Aid. Rainey asked the status of the other funds, whether received, pending, etc. Rev. Lane said that this was a projected budget. Their Agency has been writing grants and soliciting donations from different organizations. Mr. Barner Williams said they were also getting 510,000 of Emergency Shelter Grant funds and are ahvays seeking new funding sources. Girl Scouts - Illinois Crossroads Council/ Fir To Be Ate Karyn DuBose, Director of Development, Girl Scouts -Illinois Crossroads Council, located at 650 N Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061. Their phone number is 847-573-0500 and their email address is «rvw.ilcrossroads.org. Adriana Cano, Membership Program Specialist works directly with girls and volunteers to insure that the program is being delivered to all girls. This year they would like to bring their program "Fit To Be Me" to Evanston girls. With CDBG funding they will be able to serve 130 girls from the west and south sides of Evanston. This program was chosen based on their research and presence in Evanston and what they heard from school administrators. Statistics were provided to show that childhood and adolescent obesity and weight control are among today's top public health concerns. Approximately 9 million children over age 6 arc obese, and the number of overweight girls has doubled since 1980, High risk populations identified include African Americans, Hispanics and American Indians, with those at highest risk being African American girls. The lifetime risk of being diagnosed with Type lI diabetes is estimated to be 40% for girls and even higher among some ethnic populations. In response to this, the Girl Scouts want to offer "Fit To Be Me," a sports, health and fitness program designed to teach girls to lead healthier lives through exercise, improve nutrition choices and develop understanding of positive body image. The Girl Scouts have two collaborations - Family Focus, which will serve 85 girls, and Y.O.U., which will serve 45 girls with this program. The many facets of the "Fit To Be Me" program were explained. Dave Schoenfeld asked why some Evanston public schools were missing from the list served. Ms. DuBose replied that the Girl Scouts have six different delivery options. The schools listed have lower participation through volunteer led troops. They feed girls into Family Focus and YOU's after -school programs and the Girl Scouts are able to collaborate with those organizations to reach more girls. Aid. Rainey asked if the Girl Scouts receive CDBG funds from any other city. Ms. Cano replied that they have applied to Mr. Prospect and Waukegan and have been turned down by Mt. Prospect but have not heard from Waukegan. AId. Jean -Baptiste asked how much contact time is spent with participants. Ms. DuBose replied that they hope to meet once a month for the entire school year, and hope to bring the program back every year. She added that there is always an opportunity for girls to have a relationship with the Girl Scouts. Ms. Cano added that the goal is to engage each girl and every program, regardless of the skill it teaches, helps to build girls' self esteem. Their belief is that if they teach a girl to feel good about herself, she will make a positive impact not only on herself, but with her family and community. What the Girl Scouts do is designed to cater to the whole girl so there are opportunities for a long-term impact through Girl Scouts. Legal Assistance Foundation of Chicaeo/Elansion Leval Services William Kolen, Supervisory Attorney of the Evanston Office of the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago. Their offices are located at 828 Davis Street, Room 201, Evanston - phone number is 847-475-3703. Mr. Kolen said that he has been the Supervisory Attorney for the Evanston Office for approximately 15 years. He said that his office provides free civil legal services to low-income and elderly residents in Evanston as well as the rest of Cook County. His office serves between 500 and 600 Evanston residents annually. The type of services provided are family law - focusing on situations of domestic violence, housing - where the goal is to maintain shelter for residents coping with foreclosures, evictions and lock outs. Benefits arc provided in the cases of consumer law - bankruptcies, hospital collections, repossessions. Benefits are also provided in the areas of social security, unemployment and welfare. Mr. Kolen emphasized that they do not provide criminal legal services because their primary fonder, the Legal Services Corporation in Washington, prohibits provision of criminal law services. In 1999 they became affiliated with the Legal Assistance Foundation of Chicago, and became a county- wide agency. This provides significant benefits to the residents of Evanston because the agency in the City of Chicago has legal specialists in the areas of immigration law, public benefit, foreclosures, etc. Ald. Rainey asked for an example of a typical landlord -tenant case. Mr. Kolen cited a case in which a client had been financially abused by a relative who had managed to take out two mortgages using the client's home as collateral, even though the client only received S800 a month in social security benefits, which was her total income. One of those, a S 180,000 mortgage, was being foreclosed on by the bank. Auer a year and a half of litigation, he was able to get the mortgage lender to forgive S 10,000, the lender to cat S 10,000 and then enable the client to pay off the principal of the loan using a reverse mortgage. This enabled the client to stay in her house which she had owned for 50 years. Another client is trying to get clear title to her home, a simple case complicated because she cannot afford to hire a lawyer. His firm has persuaded a lawyer in Chicago to represent this client on a pro Bono basis. He feels that in a few months this client will have her title and will be able to get loans to fix up her house. Ald. Rainev asked if the relationship between landlords and tenants has improved. Mr. Kolen said that there had been certain buildings in Evanston from which they had been seeing tenants over and over again. He said they haven't been seeing this any more and gave an example of a building that used to have many problems but from which they have not had any cases in the last year since it was taken over by new management. Blue Heron TheatrelRpprenticeship & Community Outreach Radica Sutz gave their phone number as 312-213-5200 for anyone who would like to contribute funds. She said that reviews of their last play at Family Focus were included in their application. No staff earned salaries, their services were volunteered, but the artistic success was phenomenal. The funds they are requesting would be used to pay rent to Family Focus for their theater. Involving people of different ages and skill levels is a big plus of their program. At the last performance, many comp tickets were handed out to people who could not afford to attend and reduced -price tickets were offered to nursing homes in Evanston. Darren Jones, an actor, said he began his career in Evanston 16 years ago at the Fleetwood Jourdain Theater. He has appeared in different shows throughout Chicago. He expressed how important community theater is in bringing culture to the City. Mr. Jones said that not everyone can get to theater productions in Chicago, but with the talent in Evanston and this theater, everyone has the opportunity to see plays. He hoped to combine with the people at Northwestern to get credit for people who participated in the theater doing lighting, stage building, etc. Aid. Rainey asked if Blue Heron would be the only ones using this stage. Ms. Sutz replied that she had spoken to Ms. Hill and felt that if several shows were done in this space, other theater gaups would follow. Coleen Burrus noted that $30,000 seemed like a large sum of money to rent a stage and pointed out that proposed expenditures and revenues do not match. Ms. Burrus also asked why other funding was not being applied for. Ms. Sutz replied that per Ms. Hill, the going rate for that space is $40,000 a year. Ms. Sutz said that they have received a $500 grant from Allstate, earned over S 1,800 from the last show, and raised S 1,200 with a fundraiser. She added that she has applied to Root2Fruit and that other grants are pending. She said she would get back to them regarding the expenditure and revenue matching question. Music Institute of ChicaaeolTakinu MiLvic to Seniors Amy Greenwood, Assistant Vice President of Development at the Music Institute of Chicago. She explained that the Music Institute believes music is vital to every life, and that lifelong musical engagement strengthens our society. Ms. Greenwood thanked the Committee for the funding this year that helped them to launch their senior initiative for older adults. They are seeking funds to continue this initiative for approximately 1,500 Evanston older adults, particularly those with low and moderate incomes. For over 75 years MI's mission has been to offer the tools and opportunities so that all people can enjoy music regardless of their age, disability, ethnic background or financial circumstances. The initiative includes programs for seniors residing in skilled care facilities, senior residences and day treatment programs at places like Blake Manor, the Ebenezer Primm Tower, Pearlman apartments, the Levy Center and others. The institute discovered this year that many seniors were not aware of these cultural opportunities. The facilities that have been visited by the New Horizons Band to date want the band to return - the band itself is made up of musicians over the age of50. They are also providing free choral sing -a -longs in area senior residences. Free concerts are offered in some area residences. Free day time concerts and lectures are offered at their facility at 1490 Chicago Avenue. While there is no charge for the new Horizons Band or the free performances there are underlying costs including buses, car pools, music, coordination, lights, heating and insurance, which must be funded through the Institute's annual budget. Tuition and earned income support only 80% of their annual operating budget and they must raise the remaining 20%. This amounts to 51,000,000 for 2007. The Music Institute opened a second Evanston campus in June at 2008 Dempster in a TIF District which will serve about 500 individuals. Ms. Greenwood gave her phone number as 847-446-3822 X 130. In the next few weeks all Music Institute phones will change to 847-904-1500 but her extension will remain 130. Aid. Rainey asked for information on when the next concert will be held and Ms. Greenwood said she would be happy to get that information to her. Shorcf1ront/leeacv Proiect Dino Robinson, founder of Shorefront, introduced himself and said if anyone wanted to contact Shorefront the address is P. O. Box 1894, Evanston, IL 60204; their phone number is 847-475- 5321. He added that the internet address is J(a,comcast.net, www.shorefront.bloesnot.com, and www.shorefrontJ,net. . Mr. Robinson said that Shorefront is an organization that documents the African -American experience in the Chicago suburban North Shore. They have been in existence as an entity since 2002, but actually started their work in 1995. He felt that Shorefront is best known for their quarterly journal; to date they 27 issues have been distributed nationally to their membership base and to archival institutions and historical societies. Shorefront has produced six traveling exhibits, conducted more than 40 lectures and several bus tours in partnership with other Chicago metropolitan area communities and outside Illinois. Ms. Debi Mabie, Program Manager, said the funds requested are for a program called Legacy Keepers. Legacy Keepers is a six -week workshop for young people 10 to 18. They are taught documental skills in terms of oral histories and photography. They have partnered with Family Focus and have done two Legacy projects so far. She gave Committee members copies of the materials from the two projects. Aid. Rainey said that in their proposal it states that the schools rely on them for social studies modules for certain subjects and asked if they are compensated for their help. Mr. Robinson answered that they usually receive an honorarium, and added that they are looking to change that. Ms. Mabic said that at the end of the six -week Lev acy program they hold a Legacy Fair where the community is invited to view the participants work and community members are also invited to bring their own photographs depicting things that happened when they were young as well as current photographs. The photographs are scanned and given back to the person and as much information is recorded by an oral history taker as possible regarding what was happening in Evanston when their picture was taken. Photos and the information about them are then framed. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked what Shorefront's current relationship is with the Evanston Historical Society and what its relationship will be with the Evanston African American Museum. Mr. Robinson said that the Evanston Historical Society has been a strong silent partner and he has been involved on their board and one of their committees. They share a lot of information; Shorefront's archival list is on file with them as well as other historical societies along the North Shore up to Lake Forest. They have a partnership and working relationship with the Lake forest Historical Society and the Wilmette Historical Society. Shorefront's archive files have grown from 3 files to about 30 cubic feet of information in 10 years. Ald. Rainey noted that for the Committee to recommend funding to an African American historical documentation program there should be a relationship with the African American Museum. World Relief DuPaeelELanston lninderation Leeal Sen/ices Daniel Stutz, Director of Immigration Services at the Wheaton Office. On Thursdays and Fridays he can be reached at 847-416-1028 and Monday through Friday at 630-462-7566 X60. Their office is located at 535 Custer Avenue in Evanston. Mr. Stutz said he was originally from Argentina where he was an attorney and is now a United States citizen. He is an accredited as an immigration counselor by the Board of Immigration Appeals in the United States. He listed the many degrees he holds. Mr. Stutz reported that the Chicago metropolitan area has large numbers of residents from Europe, Asia and Latin America and is the fourth ranking destination for approximately 10 million immigrants since the 19905. 41 % of immigrants to the Chicago metro area currently live in the suburbs. In the 2000 Evanston census, Asians number around 4,500 and Hispanics also number around 4,500 people. Approximately 15% of Evanston's population is foreign born. There is a need for affordable immigration legal services in the area of family -based immigration and naturalization in Evanston. Affordable guidance is also needed when navigating; the United States citizen and immigration services. Some illegal immigrants need help in establishing legal status. As of September 1, 2006 World Relief opened its Evanston office in partnership with Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary and Reba Place Church. The partnership provides family based immigration and naturalization services to the general immigrant population in Evanston. With the financial support of the Evanston Community Foundation, World Relief Headquarters in Baltimore and a generous cost -sharing arrangement with Reba Place Church for office space, they have office hours Thursdays and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., providing immigration counseling and administrative functions. Appointments can also be scheduled in the Wheaton office Monday through Friday. Qualifications for this office include accreditation by the Board of Immigration Appeals. As the only low cost immigration services provider in DuPage County, World Relief gives crucial assistance on immigration law to approximately 4,000 people a year. For more complex cases there is assistance from the DePaul University College of Law. Aid. Rainey asked why Mr. Stutz thought that Evanston needed an immigration services office when there is an immigration office in Chicago. Mr. Stutz replied that it was a time issue and added that just because one city offers a service doesn't mean that another city should not also offer that service. Aid. Rainey asked if they charge a fee for their services. Mr. Stutz said that his office charges approximately 1/3 of an attorney's fee, or S500. Mr. Stutz confirmed that the office in Evanston would be called World Relief Evanston. In reply to questions from Committee members Mr. Stutz provided a copy of the sliding fee schedule to the Committee. North Shore Senior Center/Evanston-Skokie Valle, Senior Services Sandi Johnson, Executive Director of the North Shore Senior Center located in Northfield. Ms. Johnson introduced Pam Thomas, Director of the Evanston office. The Evanston -Skokie Valley office is located at 840 Dodge Avenue; phone number is 847-864-3721. Ms. Johnson said that her Agency has a 10-year history of service to older adults in Evanston. They have been able to meet the needs of seniors in part due to local funding. She explained that their clients are older, very frail, and very low income and are dealing with a number of complex medical and emotional problems. They are struggling to remain at home and are able to do so when case managers assess their needs, help them to develop a plan of care, and then arrange and oversee needed services. CDBG funding has made it possible to provide services without maintaining a waiting list. The request for funds represents a little over 2% of the budget of the Evanston office. Funding will enable them to provide an increased level of services and expand activities at Jacob Blake Manor in addition to Ebenezer Primm Towers, Fleetwood Jourdain Nutrition Site and the Levy Activity Center. Pam Thomas also thanked the Committee for their support, noting that many of their clients are home bound and are perhaps not as visible as other groups that are funded. She gave an example of a 64 year old man with health and financial problems who lives in subsidized senior housing in Evanston. The building manager brought him to the attention of their case manager and asked her to meet with him. The man had stopped seeing a doctor and taking his medications because he could not afford them. The case manager did a benefits checkup and helped him complete the forms for Medicaid and Illinois Cares RX and applied for the Medicaid Part D low income subsidy. He is now receiving full Medicaid benefits and has gotten a full refund of premiums withheld from his social security checks since February. He has also qualified for low income help through Medicaid and is now seeing a doctor through medical home visits; X-ledicaid is also paying for his medications. The case manager helped him apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program to help pay utility bills and he is on the waiting list for Title Ill Chore Housekeeping Services. As a result of the intervention by this case manager, this gentleman's medical needs and some of his financial needs are being addressed and he has money left over at the end of the month. Ms. Thomas said that they were able to provide a case manager because ofCDBG funding. Aid. Rainey asked what providing a presence at senior homes meant. Ms. Thomas said that at present, there is a case manager at Primm Tower every Friday and people make appointments to see her. Rev. T"tomas helps schedule those appointments. There is also someone at the Levy Center every Wednesday morning from 10 to 12 a.m. and at Fleetwood Jourdain when they have their congregate meals every other Wednesday. Noyes Court and Pearlman arc run by the Housing Authority of Cook County and they have a social worker on staff. Ms. Johnson said that they do serve residents in those buildings, but do not have offices there. Carenoint Adult, Child & Family Assoc/Cummunin- Unit► t Vince Gillon said that they have a websitc at 222.carepointoutreach.org, they can be contacted via email at carenointfc�ameritcch.net. He added that their phone number is 847-425-3606, if it is an emergency call 773-407-9030. They are located at 113 Custer and their office hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, they arc open some nights and weekends. Mr. Gillon said that they have been at the Custer site for approximately 3 years. 'Their services have been used by the Bahai Temple and Chicago State University. 'They have a good collaboration with the Evanston Police Department and attend regular roll calls with the police. Mr. Gillon said that they are asking for a grant for a combination of services. Primarily they will work with high -risk males just released from jail and coming back to the North Shore, providing crisis case management and a life skills component. A big part of the grant is for HIV/STD scnices because so many of the people they see are at risk for HIV and STDs. Part of the grant is for making six visits (duplicated and unduplicated will number 200 visits.). He said that a fair number of clients Ieave and do not come back to Evanston. For many clients with addictions, this is a high risk community and it is too hard to come back to a community where every knows them. Therefore, if they are off parole, they are sent to Iowa and Minnesota based on the philosophy that they need some breathing room. A big emphasis will be on youth 18 - 26, not only people involved with the Department of Corrections, but people at risk. Mr. Gillon added that they have an aggressive outreach team targeting street corners and areas where they know people are not receiving services through traditional means. Mr. Gillon said they have a long history working with the target population. They are on a lot of boards including Congressman Danny Davis' Advisory Board, the Midwest Advisory Board for Corrections, State Planning Group, Chicago Planning Group and Ilomeless AIliance Group. Three years ago they were honored by the NAACP for their wort; in Evanston. One third of the funds will be matched by holding fund raisers. Aid. Rainey asked for clarification of the source of the matching funds. Mr. Gillon said that they have asked their board for a commitment of S 15,000. Crawford Richmond asked if there were agencies in Iowa and Minnesota to help these men that were sent there. Mr. Gillon replied they work with an extensive list of agencies. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked why the projected target for clients to be served was so much higher than the previous year. Mr. Gillon answered that one reason is they have been invited to be a part of Access To Recovery (ATR), a federal grant through which they get direct referrals of people returning to this community. There is going to be a big emphasis on people not in the system and once they see a client they will have many duplicated visits/services to get them all the services they need. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for some success stories. Mr. Gillon said that Carepoint is always planting seeds, so while there are success stories now, there will also be future success stories and gave examples. Onen Studio ProiecV,Irt & Ae ion Pravram For At -Risk Youth Sarah Laing, Associate Director of the Open Studio Project, said they were an arts and social service organization located at 901 - 903 Sherman Avenue where there is an community art studio and gallery space. Their web site is www.openstudioproject.org and the phone number 847-475-0390. She thanked the Committee for the past funding of their program. Ms. Laing explained that Art in Action provides year round after school and summer programming for at risk youth agcs 9 - 18. Currently they serve over 150 youth, targeting low and moderate income Ievels. Ms. Laing said that part of what makes them so successful is that they work with existing groups. They offer multi -week classes free of charge using an art therapy method that is taught nationally. Basic art materials are used in an environment that promotes mutual respect and safety. They will be working in elementary schools in the spring thanks to the 21 " Century Learning Centers Program. This year they were able to hire a third art therapist and she is doing exclusive programming for them. They are looking to increase the current client demographic from 177 to 288 clients. The goals of the program are for the youth to express difficult emotions, increasing their ability to manage emotions that can often lead to violent behavior and even substance abuse. The youth learn healthy emotional self expression, increase healthy life choices, and develop empathy and better social skills. After nine or twelve week workshops, they hold exhibitions in their gallery space «'here the youth are featured, bringing in much larger audiences including parents, social workers, and even parole officers. At school where some of the youth are known as trouble makers they are beginning to be seen in a much more positive light. Aid. Rainey asked how Ms. Laing chose Washington School. Ms. Lang replied that they are doing this through the 21' Century Learning Center Program and so are doing everything based on their recommendations. Aid. Rainey asked for an explanation of the 2I" Century Learning Center Program and was told that it is a federally funded after -school program to support schools with low income students that are failing to meet increases in test scores mandated by No Child Left Behind. Interfaith Action of E vanston/["nrnlownent C uutselilnelllri.+nitalilr, Center Susan Murphy introduced herself and Elliot Lashin and said that their phone number is 847-869- 0370 and their web site is www.interfaithaction,org. Ms. Murphy said that the main thing their organization does is work with the hungry and homeless. They have six warming centers that open in November and remain open through the winter months in the afternoon. They have three soup kitchens for which they are directly responsible. Their I lospitality Center for the homeless is open Monday through Friday and serves all of the homeless that have gone through Connections for the Homeless' Entry Point and Hilda's Place programs. rr,L: --'its -•, � - CDBG funds have been supporting their job counseling program. Elliot Zashin has developed a program to help people who have lost their drivers licenses and do not have the money to renew their license. Mr. Zashin takes these people for driving practice in his own car and then takes them for their test. In the past two months, two men have received their licenses, one now works at the new garage in Evanston, and the other got a job as a cross-country truck driver. Mr. Zashin said that one of the most difficult problems they face is that most of the people they work with have manual labor skills, only occasionally they find people with computer or other skills. He said he was working with a 40-year old African American male who has done various kinds of manual labor, but finds that these kinds of jobs are too far away. Mr. Zashin hopes to help people get used cars and licenses so they have transportation to get to jobs which are not accessible to them now. Recently Mr. Zashin attended a job fair at which he asked different employers if they hired ex - offenders. They responded no or that they weren't at liberty to discuss it. Aid. Rainey suggested that he talk to businesses in the TIF districts. Mr. Zashin also said he had heard about construction job set asides for Evanston residents. He said lie did not know how to get into that program. Aid. Rainey referred him to Lloyd Shepherd at the Civic Center. Mr. Zashin reported that, with a grant from the Evanston Community Foundation, Interfaith Action of Evanston recently formed a support group for people who have found jobs and housing to help them make the transition from homelessness to living independently. Coleen Burrus mentioned that Ms. Murphy should have someone review their proposal because budgets do not add up and there are a lot of typos. Aid. Rainey noted that no 2007/08 budget was provided. Ms. Murphy replied that they have just reorganized and that budget has not been completed. Meals At Home/Food Delivery To Seniors cf Disabled Patricia Carlson gave their address as P.O. Box 279, Wilmette, IL ; phone number is 847-251- 6827; and website is www.mealsathome.ore, Ms. Carlson said that Meals at Home has completed another year of successfully providing food and friendship to their clients. Their service area includes Evanston. Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, East Glenview and East Northfield, however most of their clients (75%) live in Evanston. Volunteers have been delivering food to homebound seniors since 1968. In 1999 they added delivery on Saturdays and major Holidays. Their primary sources of food are St. Francis and Evanston I iospitals. All the food purchased is low salt, low fat and low cholesterol. They offer general diets with no restrictions and special diets including diabetic, cardiac, salt -free, mechanical chopped, gluten -free and renal. From July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006, they delivered 36,600 meals to 201 clients. Over the course of the year, 101 new clients were served. CIients qualify for their program if they have health problems that render them unable to shop or cook for themselves. Most clients are seniors, but some are younger adults with serious medical conditions. By delivering meals, clients ore able to continue to live in the homes and communities they know and love. The cost per delivery in the last fiscal year was S9.8land the highest charge to the client is 57.90. So even those who pay the full price are subsidized. A formula is used to determine the fee for clients unable to pay the full fee and many low- income clients pay less than 53.50 per delivery. This year, Meals at Home expanded its Captain Nemo soup and sandwich program. Volunteers delivered 320 soup and sandwich meals from January to June. They also started a collaboration with Ally's Cafe that supports Meals at Home in several ways. Brian Newkirk. the owner of Jilly's, worked with their fund raising committee to donate meals to help them thank their major donors. Jilly's is also providing food for a small pilot program on Thursdays. The Meals at Home Friendly Visit Program matches clients with volunteers; nineteen volunteers visited nineteen clients this year. Clients and volunteers decide how often to meet and what activities they will engage in together. These visits provide companionship for all who participated. Meals at Home will use CDBG funds to prop&ide food to low-income Evanston clients. Evanston Community Defender's Office/Evanston Community Defender Office Jerry Esrick, Board member of the Evanston Community Defender Office, located at 828 Davis Street; the phone number is 847492-1410. He introduced Bob Roy, Executive Director, Patricia Dixon, director of Social Services, Bill Parks, President of the Board, Roger Pascal and Victor Grimm, Board Members. Mr. Esrick thanked the Committee for their support over the years, noting that they would not exist without that support. In determining their mission and the services they provide, they get a lot of input from their client community, but also look at various studies, including the United Way Needs Study, the Legal Needs Study by the Illinois and Chicago Bar Associations, the Lawyers Trust Fund of Illinois and the Illinois Strategic Plan. Mr. Esrick noted their organization was set up by the City many years ago, so the Board focused on policy during those years and did not do any fund raising. For 2006/07 the Board realized that they must develop their board and rev up fund raising and have been very successful. Bob Roy stated that their organization is community based. They try to get involved in problems presented to them as soon as they can so they get quickly resolved and directed to remedial services. He said they have a small staff consisting of himself and two half time lawyers; one of the lawyer positions is vacant. There is a pan time office manager and a full time director of social services. In the last fiscal year, approximately 103 people were served; those 103 people had 177 cases. In fiscal year 2005/06, he represented 50 new people and since January of 2006 to the end of the fiscal year, 22 new people contacted them. Mr. Roy gave the following statistics; 47% of their clients are extremely low income, 81% are African -American, 88% are male and 12% female, 65% live in female -headed households, 50% of the people he represented were 16 or younger. Mr. Roy :raid his Hoard asked him to be involved in the Haven School Mediation Project, which requires a lot of time. Holh Kathy Roberson, the Haven principal, and he agreed that if they have to depend upon the two of them as the primary staff people it will not get off the ground. He has applied for an equal justice fellowship which would fund a full-time lawyer. In addition to that, the Defender's Office collalxiratcs with YOU in a program to support kids on juvenile probation funded by a grant from the State of Illinois. The goal is to provide services to youth on probation to keep them from going back to court. Three services are provided: Case Management & Outreach, Aggression Replacctncnt Training. and Strategic Family Therapy. Mr. Roy said that he does the Case Nlanagcntent and Outreach. Patricia Dixon does Aggression Replacement Training. Patricia Dixon explained that a primary function of her job is intensive case management and outreach, as well as a program called Aggression Replacement Training (ART). She emphasized that ART is an evidence -based program that has truly served as an asset to Evanston youth. It meets for ten weeks, three days per week for one hour each of those days. On each day there is a different component; the first is skill streaming, the second is anger management and the third is moral reasoning. The overall goal of this intervention is to increase adolescents' social awareness and skills. Another goal is to help the youth gain better control over their lives by becoming aware of, and gaining control over, what makes them angry and understanding the consequences of their reactions - to help them learn to think ahead. The final goal is to help them gain a clear understanding of what morals and values are. The youth that the Defender's Office works with have been labeled as bad - at home, at school, in the community or all three. Currently there are two groups running at the same time and each group has 8 members. These groups are only in their second week but the difference in the youth can be noticed. Ms. Dixon said that when youth complete the program, every youth asks "What am I going to do now?" In response, his. Dixon has created two new services. One is a career/ college prep group that focuses on traditionally under represented populations in higher education. The other is a community service component. Research has shown that there are better outcomes when a person feels connected to the community. Aid. Rainey asked the ages of the youth in the two groups tits. Dixon is seeing now. Ms. Dixon replied that they arc 13 - 18. She added that they are divided by age into groups of 13 - 15 and 16 - 18. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how many children are served a year in ART. Ms. Dixon replied that so far this year she estimated that 18 children had been served. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if in their Strategic Plan there is any plan to work more closely with the schools. Ms. Dixon replied that is part of what they are trying to establish at Haven Middle School. They want to add ART as a component liar youth going before the behavioral panel. When Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if Nis, Dixon foresaw getting involved with the whole district, she replied that the Evanston Township Iligh School is where she has been conducting the groups. She added that Joseph Academy is trying to work ART into their curriculum during school hours. 11� IV. Aid. Rainey noted that every day there is a problem at Evanston Township High School. There are fights and the police presence makes it look like an armed camp at the end of the high school day. Ms. Dixon said that is what aggression management is designed to address and she gets calls from students asking what to do when these situations arise. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he thought more activism and advocacy around this issue is needed, that chaos is created by the youth getting out of hand and even our police department is saying that they don't know how to control them. He said there needs to be a way to address this and asked Mr. Roy if he was engaged in any discussions to see how he can alleviate this problem or if he was aware of the situation. Mr. Roy replied that he is well aware of this problem. He said if you took a photograph of the front of the school and the back of the school at the end of the school day and put them side by side, you would think you were looking at two different schools. The students at the back of the high school are being picked up and driven home and there are adults there that are involved. The people coming out of the front of the high school are walking down to Burger King or McDonalds because they don't have that after school connection. He added that 3 to 6 p.m. is the prime time for juvenile crime. Mr. Roy gave the analogy that the work he does is like running a very expensive ambulance service at the bottom of a cliff. You pick someone up, you take them away and make them better and after a while you get curious as to what is making them fall off the cliff. So, you climb to the top of the cliff and maybe put up a fence. if you can do this at Haven and if you can get kids thinking of other ways to resolve their problems they might have a chance. Mr. Roy mentioned a program called Problem Solving for Sixth Graders, noting that sixth graders do not have the abstract reasoning ability of older youth. Mr. Roy replied that he did not have the answer of how to solve the problems at ETHS. Basically it is difficult to look at the world through someone else's eyes when you have not had that experience. He said it would be nice if he could be there everyday, but that is impossible. He mentioned several ways to keep the congregating of the students after school. He said there needs to be more input. Aid. Rainey noted the Committee was not criticizing his work; they know he is one person. Adjournment There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:06 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Mary E Baaske HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: I. CALL TO ORDER MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, October 24, 2006 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — City Council Chambers Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid, Bernstein, Ms. Coleen Burrus Aid. Anjana Hansen, Mr. Crawford Richmond, Mr. David Schoenfeld Ms. Lisa James Aid. Ann Rainey, Chair There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m.. Aid. Rainey stated that this is the second round of reviews of proposals for CDBG funds for the 2007-08 funding period. There were no reports to be presented so Aid. Rainey proceeded with the interviews. She asked that the applicants state their names and contact information. II. 2007-08 CDBG PROGRAM — Committee Review of Agency Applications Connections for the Homeless — Entry Point The first CDBG Applicant reviewed was Mary Ruth Coffey, Executive Director of Connections for the Homeless, and the program, Entry Point. Their office is located at 2010 Dewey Avenue, Evanston, IL, and she can be reached at 847-475-7070, extension 108. She introduced Paul Sclden, the Director of Finance and Operations and Becky Philer, the Director of Programs. Ms. Coffey thanked the Committee for 13 years of support. She stated that she is asking for support for the Entry Point Outreach program in the amount of S 15,000. She explained that the program was started in 1999, and is one of the most critical programs that Connections for the Homeless provides and very important to the City of Evanston, and very appropriate for CDBG funds because it serves individuals and families who are living on the streets with very low or no income. In addition to helping the homeless, the community of Evanston benefits from the program because it reduces problems with the homeless. They reach out to the City of Evanston, work in collaboration with businesses and Police Department and all of the municipalities by providing residents and businesses a phone number to call them when they encounter homeless individuals. They come and meet with the homeless people, helping to find a compassionate response to these individuals. Thcy have a strong partnership with the police department. They go on ride-alongs with the Police to assist homeless people in Evanston. The reason their request for funds is a marked increase this year is that there has been an increase in the number of homeless. In fiscal year 2005 they served 259 people, increasing to 358 last year. They expect to see that level or more next COBG Review Mecting Tuesday. October 24, 2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 2 a 16 year. They have 1.5 staff people and feel that to provide an effective level of service, they need to increase this program to 3 full time people. CDBG funds would support .5 of a staff person and they are asking the Evanston Mental Health Board for funding for one additional full time person. Ms. Coffey then asked for questions. Aid. Rainey asked why they stopped serving 24 hours when there are other resources serving 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Ms. Coffey replied that they still have a 24-hour 800 number. They take phone calls and help people over the phone with resources. Aid. Rainey stated that the homeless person in the bus stop with a sofa doesn't have a phone and asked what they would do. She said she had been impressed that they would come out in the night. Ms. Coffey asked that Ms. Philer respond to this question. Ms. Philer stated that they have staff coverage 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. After those hours, calls to the 800 number are referred to the police. The police then may call and ask if they can house someone and bring them to them. Aid. Rainey stated that that is different than it used to be. She asked Ms. Philer how long she's been with Entry Point and Ms. Philer replied that she'd been there for 3 months. Aid. Rainey stated that it was very different in the past. There used to be a van that operated 24/7. Ms. Philer said the 800 number has evolved to be used by community members at large, the business district and Northwestern University. Aid. Rainey stated she's called it several times and reiterated that at i l pm or tam it's very hard to get help. Again she asked why they decided to stop24 hour service. Ms. Coffey stated that it was stopped because of low usage; there wasn't a lot of demand for someone to go out in the middle of the night, but someone will answer the phone. She stated that the number is 800-439-6691. Mr. Schoenfeld asked why Ms. Coffey thinks there is a growing demand for their services, whether more Evanston residents are becoming homeless or more homeless people arecoming to Evanston. Ms, Coffey replied that there is a general lack of affordable housing, people losing employment or not having living wage jobs, and other reasons. The trend is increasing. Mr. Schoenfeld asked if they have tracked it more than a couple of years. Ms. Coffey stated that she would provide Mr. Schoenfeld with those statistics in the near future. Aid. Rainey asked why there was a big increase in the number of people identified as not being Evanston - connected in any way. Why do homeless people come to Evanston who don't have family or networks here? Ms. Coffey replied that they may have friends here, or by word of mouth, or have taken the train and gotten off in Evanston. It is accessible. Aid. Rainey said they made a distinction identifying those who have a connection vs. those who do not. She was expecting to hear that they support a lot of homeless programs. Ms. Coffey agreed that they do and has explained that she identified the non -Evanston homeless recipients as people who end up in Evanston, whether they're citizens or not, the purpose to improve quality of life for all Evanston citizens. Aid. Rainey thanked her far her presentation. YWCA - North Shnre Domestic V nlence Services The second applicant to be reviewed was YWCA North Shore Domestic Violence Services, presented by Karen Singer, Executive Director. Ms. Singer stated that their offices are at 1215 Church Street and their phone is 847-864-8445. Their 24-hour hotline is 877-718-1868. Ms. Singer introduced Shelley Gates, President of the Board and Genriyeta Papirov, Administrative Director. Ms. Singer stated that they have submitted CDBG Review Aieeting Tuesday, October 24.2006 Meeting Minutes, Page t of 16 two applications; under Public Services, for S40,000 for Domestic Violence Counseling and Case Management Services, and under the Public Facilities Improvements projects they are requesting S16,000 for two improvements to the shelter facility to make it safer. One is to repair the sidewalks around the shelter (Ms. Papirov injured herself falling on said sidewalk) and to install storm windows on the facility. This past year they served 581 women and children, an increase of 17% over last year. Evanston residents served are up 68% over last year, perhaps due to women being more aware of their service and making more use of it. They are the only comprehensive domestic violence program serving the northeastern metropolitan area. Statistics/Past year. Hotline fielded 1,097 calls, 14% from Evanston, Legal advocacy program served 354, 17% from Evanston. Shelter served 189 women and children, 150110 from Evanston. This is more than a 200% increase in services to Evanston residents over last year. Transitional housing has served 28 families since its inception in 2000. Community based services to women who have not yet left their abuser, provide counseling and support, served 35 women, 84% from Evanston. A total of 7,691 hours of direct client services have been provided this year, 28% to Evanstonians. Their work focuses on the support necessary to help abused women understand the effect abuse has on them and their children and to end that abuse. Each woman develops, with counseling, goals for her future and identifies resources to help her stabilize within the community and stay free from her abuser. This year they are requesting S40,000, 3% of the total program budget, down from 4% last year. Ms. Singer stated that they're doing more and asking for less. She expressed gratefulness for the past CDBG funds, and asked if there were questions. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if the 68% increase included the children of the family also, to which Ms. Singer answered yes. He then asked what she analyzed as the basis for the increase. Ms. Singer strongly suspects that it is the increased visibility, and exposure through the Ricky Birdsong Race Against Hate, attended by 2,000 people, but people are also aware of the domestic violence services through presentations to community groups and organizations, faith -based groups, and as word gets out. She doesn't think the issue itself is worsening. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked the age breakdown. Ms. Singer deferred this question to Ms. Papirov, who replied that the majority are between 25 and 39, but they have people 50 and up and younger than 25. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked about ethnicity, specifying he did not mean race. Ms. Singer replied that it varies across services. The domestic violence shelter houses 80% African American, low income women. The demographic of the court program is over 70% white, educated, working, living in the North Shore community, explaining that women with more financial resources are less likely to stay in a shelter, and North Shore women also have more fear about living in a shelter. Aid. Jean -Baptiste explained further that he meant, by ethnic groups, people from the Caribbean, Mexico, and eastern Europe, from cultures where women usually do not have a voice. Ms. Singer replied that the biggest increase is in the I lispanie community. They have a bilingual counselor and the majority of women they see who have not left their abuser are Hispanic. These women are beginning to identify that it is abuse that is happening to them. Mr. Schoenfeld asked where the people they serve outside of Evanston live. Ms. Papirov replied that it depends on the services. 60% are from Chicago for the emergency shelter program. Ms. Singer added that very often women cannot stay in their own communities because of proximity to their abusers, so they have reciprocal i CDBG Review Meeting Tuesday, October 24. 2006 Meeting Minutes. Page d of 16 relationships with shelters in Chicago. Still, this year there is an increase in Evanston women coming to their shelter. Mr. Schoenfeld asked if they have approached the City of Chicago for funds, given that 60% of their client base is from Chicago. Ms. Singer replied that the City of Chicago itself does not fund the domestic violence programs. The city receives funding from the Illinois Dept. of Human Services, which in turn, they receive. Next year they will approach the United Way of Chicago, and they currently are approaching other United Ways. Mr. Schoenfeld stated that 89% of their clientele is from outside of Evanston, yet according to their budget, about 75% of the local funding is from Evanston. Ms. Singer said yes, in the shelter most are from Chicago, but for the other community services: Transitional housing, legal services and counseling, a much higher percentage come from Evanston. Aid. Rainey said for years, they have been asking them to get some of the other suburbs to chip in. Ms. Singer said they get money from New Trier Township. Ald. Rainey noted it's a very tiny amount. Ms. Singer agreed and said that the majority of their funding comes from state and other federal programs. Aid. Rainey said yes, but we are supplementing it and it would be really important that some other community, like Skokie, provide funding. Ms. Singer stated that they got Skokie CDBG for years and because of cuts in CDBG funding, they got cut entirely from Skokie CDBG last year. Aid. Rainey said we're not going to do that and suggested they try to get other money from Skokie and other communities. Aid. Rainey then asked how they monitor placements and to explain how they select the apartments they provide to victims. Ms. Singer replied that there are 6 apartments in the Evanston community. Aid. Rainey asked, in relation to monitoring, do you communicate with the women/families you place in the apartments? Ms. Singer said yes, extensively and very frequently. Aid. Rainey asked how they decide which apartments to place people in. Ms. Singer explained that their organization holds the lease on the apartments and women and their children coming out of the shelter (90-day stay) are evaluated for stability and have goals before they're placed. Aid. Rainey explained that she meant how do they select the actual apartments. Ms. Singer said they have a Housing Coordinator who works with several management companies. Urban Equities is the biggest one they rent from and they find apartments that are suitable and safe and within the fair housing market rental rates. Aid. Rainey asked if they've ever had difficulties with the landlords. Ms. Singer said yes, they have, infrequently, and they went to Urban Equities, who gave them another apartment and they got out of the lease with the landlord that was causing problems. Ms. Papirov stated that currently they only rent from Urban Equities. Ms. Papirov stated the address and phone number of the YWCA Domestic Violence Program. She then presented the second application for Public Cacility funding, stating that they have not requested funding in this category in a long time. The oldest component of the program is the shelter, opened 25 years ago. They have 32 beds currently. They serve approximately 200 women and children annually, providing them with more than 13,000 nights of stays per year. Clients can stay for 90 days, during which time they receive individual and group counseling for women and children, family support, legal advocacy services, health education, case management. The shelter operates a 24-hour crisis line. It is housed in an 1890 Victorian home, in a historic district, in constant need of maintenance. It has I 1 bedrooms. Each room is very different and can accommodate 2-5 people. Community spaces are a kitchen, playroom and CDOG RcOciv Meeting Taeulay, octoba 24. 2006 Meeting Minutcs, Pagr S or 16 offices. They house women and children on the second floor, and only single women on the third floor. One bedroom and bathroom are disabled -accessible. Their foremost concern is safety for their clients from their abusers, but also safety within the shelter, to be warm in the winter and reasonably comfortable in the summer. Safety within the house is where they need help. The sidewalk that offers the residents' only access to the shelter leading from the front door to the street, is used approximately 100 times a day, is broken, damaged, and unsafe. She presented pictures of the sidewalk. The second issue is that all of the storm windows are either broken, corroded, or not there at all. All the storm windows need to be replaced. his. Singer then interjected that this kind of funding is extremely difficult if not impossible for them to rind, from either governmental or private sources. Mr. Schoenfeld asked if only one of their applications could be funded, which would be a higher priority. Ms. Singer responded the storm windows, because it cannot be done out of their operating budget, and the thought of a child falling out of a window is frightening. Ms. Burtus asked if they obtained bids for the windows because it seemed very inexpensive. Ms. Singer said they did receive several bids. Child Care Center - Preschnol Proerant Ms. Helen Roberts Evans, Executive Director of the Child Care Center of Evanston, stated the name of her program and address and introduced the Finance Director, Marianne Kerns. Ms. Roberts Evans expressed her appreciation for the funding that has been provided every other year for the Child Care Center, which was founded in 1944. Their mission has always been to help strengthen families by providing high quality, affordable child care for their children. That child care has grown to include early education. About one third of their children qualify for the state -funded pre -kindergarten at -risk program. They contract with School District 65 for state -funded pre -kindergarten services. 36 of their 93 children receive these additional services. Ms. Roberts Evans explained that the approximately one acre of outdoor environment is just as important as the indoor environment for the children. They've tried to make the best use of the land to provide seaming opportunities by developing working gardens where the children plant herbs, flowers, vegetables and fruit, and areas for them to ride tricycles and run, play, climb and work together. They have become mindful of the safety issue of playing outdoors. They are asking for funding to replace one of the play structures. 140 children used the playground almost every day last year. They are outside unless the wind chill is below 25 degrees. 110 of the 140 children served were Evanston residents. Of those, 78 were low income. Many live in the neighborhood, which is a target CDBG neighborhood. She and Ms. Kerns presented a diagram of the playground with the developed areas, started in the fall of2004. She pointed out the butterfly garden, a vegetable garden and an herb garden, which were built by parents, staff and the children with supervision and funding by the Botanic Garden. The Lighthouse Rotary Club of Evanston funded S 1,500 to put in a vegetable garden between the shed and the building, and funding from the Evanston Garden Club provided another garden in front of the coach house. They have currently received money from the Women's Club of Evanston with which they put in a trike path, providing a large area to ride. She presented a picture CDBG Rc%icw Mecting Tuesday, October 24, 2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 6 of 16 of the large tires that were previously played on in the playground, and had been there for many years, with wires exposed, that caused a safety hazard, and noted there were deteriorating railroad ties around the border of the playground with exposed spikes that were also dangerous. They put a lawn within the bike path. They requested funding to replace the play equipment that has been there since 1988. It is too high for 21A to 5 year old children according to current standards. It also is in ill -repair after 18 years of use. They want to replace it using the CDBG funds they requested, added to funding from Home Depot and a private donor. Aid. Rainey commended Ms. Roberts -Evans on their job and design, whereupon Ms. Roberts -Evans gave credit to the parent who drew the diagram and said that the work was based on the ideas of the children since 2004, and a garden team that meets with ChiIdcarc and the parents, who have done a lot of the labor. No questions were asked other than, "Who could argue with a playground for children?" by Aid. Rainey. Ms. Roberts Evans invited all to visit the garden. McGaw YMCA — Elevatar Rehabilitation Mr. Bill Geiger, Executive Director of the McGaw YMCA, stated that they are located at 1000 Grove Street with leased facilities at the corner of Maple and Lake Street that houses the recently NAEYC-accredited Children's Center, the Foster Reading Center Program located at the Family Focus building, and Camp Echo on Long Lake in Fremont, Michigan. Their phone number is 847-475-7400, and their website is www.McGawYMCA.org. He thanked the Committee for funding a $50,000 grant 2 years ago to repair their service elevator. 544,000 was spent to upgrade that elevator. He introduced John Mroczka, Residence Director of the YMCA. Mr. Geiger requested funding to replace critical components (a controller) for their passenger elevator, which serves 172 residents. He read the mission of the YMCA: "The McGaty YMCA is an open, charitable, membership association that promotes growth in spirit, mind and body through programs and services for all in our diverse community." In fiscal 2007, they have budgeted to provide over 51,460,000 in fee assistance and program subsidies. They will provide over 5500,000 in fee assistance alone, 63% above the same period last year. They will provide 5900,000 in program subsidies ranging from their child care to swim lessons to family programming to active older adult programming and more. For years they have said "No one is turned away because of an inability to pay." As a further expression of this commitment in April of this year they initiated "membership for all." Now all YMCA membership fees are income -based and further adjusted based on the number of people in the household. They are deeply committed to making membership available to all, however tonight they ask to focus on resident members. 172 members/residents/Evanston citizens live at the YMCA, one of them since 1955, some for only a few nights. The YMCA is meeting a critical housing need in Evanston. Their residence goal statement is, "We will provide affordable housing for low income men in a supportive YMCA setting, based on our YMCA core values that enhance our resident members' spirits, minds and bodies." Mr. Geiger offered to provide additional information if the application was not sufficient. They are asking for the support of over 200 single men. Most nights their rooms are over 93% occupied, more as it gets colder. Most residents are very low income, 27% receive government assistance, 59% are over 51, 33% are black, 3% Hispanic, 25% have been referred by social service agencies, and 28% were homeless prior to coming to the YMCA. They are asking for funds to replace ...AMMEW CDUG Review Meeting Tuesday. October 24, 20% Meeting Minutes, Page 7 or 16 the controller of the Residence passenger elevator. This is the only elevator transporting the 172 residents living on the P, 4's and 5u' floors - hundreds of trips every day, 365 days a year. The controller is failing more and more frequently. The manufacturer is out of business. Borrowing is not feasible, as the "Y" is already indebted. Funding for this capital infrastructure repair is very difficult to find. The donors and members already support the current S 1.4million fee assistance and program subsidies, so they must come to the CDBG Committee to ask for assistance for the elevator controller replacement, I.1c thanked the Committee for their consideration. Aid. Rainey complimented him on a fabulous job. Family Focus — fVeisshourd Holmes Familt, Focur Center Mr. Kevin Limbeck, Executive Director of Family Focus, thanked the Committee for their generosity said their support has been critical to the upgrade of Family Focus. He introduced Sandra Hill, Center Director, Frank Yancey, Building Engineer, and Diane Griffin, the Grants Coordinator. Mr. Limbeck stated that two years ago they asked for support in the first phase of a boiler operation. That was critical. There is more work to be done. Mr. Limbeck then deferred to Ms. Hill to explain the current need. She explained that they need repair to the boilers in a building where they provide their services and also have tenants. They serve 300 people a day. "Not a day goes by that they don't feed or clothe someone." The scope of the work they're asking for is the continuation of a project that will keep their building safe. it involves a 20-year old boiler. The repairs includes replacing 75 boiler tubes in one boiler, installing a new steam trap to the two existing boilers to increase their efficiency, two new pump controllers, and two new secondary low water cut-off heads on the boiler (for efficiency and safety), install new pneumatic valves for 3 rooms in the building, replace the coil in one room that has no heat at all, test and calibrate 44 thermostats, replace 12 broken thermostats, replace broken handicap -accessible toilets in a ladies' rest room, replace a leaking grease trap in the kitchen sink, and install new protective covers for 12 fire alarms. Ms. Hill explained that the revised budget they distributed stated that the grease trap and the toilet would now be covered by Family Focus, however they would still need the original funding request. Ms. Hill asked if there were questions. Aid. Rainey asked if they had placed announcement for bids in the newspaper. Ms. Hill replied that they had not yet. Aid. Rainey asked how they arrived at their prices. Ms. Hill replied that they were based on similar previous work done. Ms. Hill added that they will be getting bids, Aid. Rainey thanked them for their presentation. Evanston Westside Citizens Council — Restoration of 1817 Church Ms. Bettye Palmer, Project Coordinator, explained that the Westside Citizens' Council has re -submitted their proposal for a total rehab of 1817 Church, a landmark building, where they hope to establish a Heritage House. Ms. Palmer then reviewed the status of the items in their proposal: They are rehabbing the building as is. They have reviewed the architect's estimate and concluded that they need 5420,000. The 550,000 they got last year is included again this year, to be used to staff two positions, as they now need a full time person to oversee construction and answer inquiries. They are planning to open in January, when Ms. Pauline Williams will be honored. Ms. Williams has spent a great deal of time and was very committed, at the beginning, to working on the committee that COUG Review Meeting Tuesday, October 24.2006 Meeting Minutes. Page B of 16 was the foundation of the Heritage House. This past summer they put lively colors on the walls, scraped concrete and are creating concepts for each of the concrete floors. Ms. Palmer called to the Committee's attention, on the architect's estimate, the following items: Site Preparation, excavation and grading and drainage, $25,000, and 6% of the projects - Has been completed; Fencing - In process; Sidewalks and Parking Lot - have been installed; The half-moon shape around their mural, complete, (but the mural has unfortunately exploded.) They have an estimate for the masonry work including repairs to damaged limestone on the building favade, tuckpointing and cleaning, and it is much less than the S 15,000 Iisted on the architect's estimate. Demolition of the building's interior non -load bearing walls - in process. Rough carpentry/installation of drywall - in process. Once the walls are demolished, a new finish will have to be put on the new walls. They have had to constantly repair the roof and gutters, so the new proposal includes complete renovation of the roof. The new plumbing is because the bathrooms will be in a new position. EIVAC may not add up to S25,000 because they've already installed 2 new boilers, which will be turned on Thursday, 10/25/06. New exterior electrical current, outlets, fixtures and emergency lighting - installed, Interior electrical — in process. Finished carpentry — in process, except for the front windows. Screens - in process. A Metalworking company donated grills for the windows. Appliances and fixtures — in process, so that cost will also be reduced. The contingency of unexpected expenses will remain the same. Ms. Palmer then asked if there were any questions. There were none. Ald. Rainey thanked her for the presentation. A short break was taken. Bevond Ordinate Enterprises - Informed Citizens Proiect Ms. Joanne Sewell, Co -Director of Beyond Ordinary Enterprises, introduced herself and the Director, Charles Taylor. Ms. Sewell thanked the Committee for the opportunity to present their proposal. She explained that what they propose to do is to give the citizens of Evanston information and resources in the area of legal matters "that they might not ordinarily know about." They started Beyond Ordinary Enterprises in March of 2005, because as a paralegal at 261h and California, tits. Sewell witnessed many young people going before a judge with no knowledge of the legal system, or how to conduct themselves in a courtroom or upon an arrest, and do not know their rights, especially the right to remain silent, causing them to end up in prison. She was inspired to reach out to communities to help these children (mostly under 17) and their families, to deal with this situation. She explained that the families and communities of low to moderate income people need to be educated on how to get legal advice and representation, job training and job placement for ex -offenders. Ms. Sewell has found agencies that would provide these services and she plans to get the knowledge it) the ex -offenders and their families. Ms. Sewell then deferred to Mr. Taylor to present the research he has done on the recidivism rate in Evanston. Mr. Taylor is a mental health worker and has been an addictions counselor, a writer, and a reporter. He has learned that most people don't know what number to call to get the help that is available. Through their program, they plan to address people who are coming out of prison for the first time, making them aware of the available resources such as job training and helping them overcome the stigma of being an ex -offender, and give them hope. 'Their plan for risk reduction is to CDBG Review Meeting Tuesday, October 24.2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 9 or 16 provide mentors for their clients and their clients' families. These mentors will be people who have come through the same experience and have succeeded in "making something of themselves." Mr. Taylor's research showed that the Evanston Police Department had initiated 4,075 arrests in 2005. They propose to reduce the number of arrests by teaching young men and Nvomen how to conduct themselves when confronted with the Iaw, which much of the time means not talking too much, and their rights, including the right to remain silent and to call a lawyer. Ms. Sewell then stated that they have worked with Vince Gillon at Carepoint, who refers his clients to them. They have done seminars at Carepoint. They can be reached at Carepoint, and their numbers are 847-869-8646 and 847-224-1300, and Charles' cellular phone number is 847-840-9020. They plan to work with Metropolitan Family Services, the MCGaw YMCA, Robert Crown, and to conduct seminars and workshops in schools, churches and any other organization they can. The purpose of their proposed program is to lessen the amount of children who end up in prison. Aid. Hansen then asked what age group they plan to serve, since Ms. Sewell made references to 26`s and California, where the offenders are 17 and older. Ms. Sewell said some of the offenders at 260' and California are under, 17, and being tried as adults, depending on their crimes. Aid. Hansen argued that those are very few. Ms. Sewell agreed and it was clarified that she is working with those who are under 17, and have already had "contact with the system." Aid. Hansen then asked what sets their program apart from other agencies in Evanston, such as the Evanston Community Defender's Office, Y.O.U., and the Evanston Police Department. Ms. Sewell replied that the others offer some attorneys, some referrals, but she does not believe that they walk the children and their families through the entire process. Informed Citizens Project proposes to do this, from the time the police officer stops them through their time in court. For example, they will explain legal terminology, such as a motion to suppress and discovery, how to write a motion, etc. Ms. Sewell said she had not researched the other agencies at length. She looked them up to see a brief description of their services, and it did not appear that the other services would be able to give the one-on-one attention that they plan to. For instance, they have paralegals who would write a motion for them. Informed Citizens Project proposes to explain what the process involves, and to educate children in schools, etc., before it is too late. Mr. Schoenfeld commented that Ms. Sewell is describing a therapeutic function of the law, and that is helping people understand the process as it is happening. He said the Evanston Community Defender also does a good job of that. He suggested Nis. Sewell get in touch with them and work with them. Mr. Schoenfeld then asked, "Focusing on the ex -offender population, what would you do differently than those organizations that we are funding or have funded?" Mr. Taylor replied that they plan to go out to the young people and tell them ►,6-hat their rights are when they are first confronted with the legal system. A lot of people don't understand that they do have rights when they're confronted by the law. They intend to go out into the street and inform children, for instance, that they have the ri�..ht to call a lawyer, and that they will give them an attorney. Mr. Taylor said he hasn't found another organization that goes out and tells children that they do have certain rights. He has worked with children who are certain that they do not have any rights. Aid. Jean -Baptiste thanked them for their proposal and their passion and asked if they were familiar with First Responders. Ms. Sewell replied that she was not familiar with First Responders, thought she is familiar with First Defense. Aid. Jean -Baptiste told her it is a similar service that makes support CDOG Review Meeting Tuesday, October 24. 2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 10of 16 available when someone is first approached by the police and are in the grasp of the law. Aid. Jean -Baptiste then asked, "Where and how long have you been doing this work, and how many youth are you serving today?" Ms. Sewell answered that they arc doing the majority of this work at the Howard Area Community Center and with Vince Gilion at Carepoint. They did a summit on expungement and clemency with Mr. Giilon and a judge. She explained that they are new, but they've given many seminars and workshops for CGLA Law Offices, and they've been on CGLA's Board and have worked with First Defense. They arc now aspiring to start their own organization and possibly fill in the gaps for the other organizations. Ms. Sewell does not know the exact number of youths she's worked with, but she's worked with schools and with the Women's Jail Project. Aid. Bernstein asked Ms. Sewell to explain the nature of the work she does «7th ex - offenders at the Safer Foundation and what it is she counsels them to do or not to do. Ms. Sewell replied that she talks to them about proper procedure if they are stopped by the police. Mr. Bernstein replied that if they are ex -offenders they know the system better than many lawyers. Ms. Sewell agreed that they know the system, but they still do not know how to conduct themselves, i.e. to be quiet when they legally can, and the value of it. There arc some young people in Safer Foundation who will listen and want to get out of prison permanently, and are grateful to learn about their rights. Mr. Taylor then added that there are a great number of men and women who know about the system, but a portion of them want to take a different route. Informed Citizens Project offers a chance and the right guidance for them to do that. Ms. Sewell added that starting to counsel childrentex-offenders the younger, the better. Aid. Rainey wished them good luck. South Evanston Neighborhood Association - Custer Street hnnrovemenr Proeram Mr. Patrick Sullivan, representative of the South Evanston Neighborhood Association, who lives at 716 Brummel Street, introduced himself and other members of the organization. (The five other attendees were not on microphones — most live at 716 Brummel.) He stated that more were coming. He stated that they are asking for $7,000 to have banners along 16 ofCuster's 36 light poles between Oakton and Howard, to let people know that they are actually in South Evanston when they are driving through. They thought it would be good timing since the construction has just been completed, to let people know that they live in a great area where improvements are being made. He said they sometimes feel a little separated in that little corner of the city. They also propose to put new garbage cans with silk screened slogans like "We Love South Evanston," "Love Your Neighbor," and "Keep Your Neighborhood Clean," as opposed to just having blue barrels, which are not as aesthetically pleasing, and the garbage cans will have unity with the banners. They also propose to send a mailing to every resident east of Ridge, north of Howard, and south of Oakton, with information about the services available not only in the entire city of Evanston, but also about their alderwoman, Ann Rainey, and what programs are happening in the neighborhood, and a refrigerator magnet with the lobo for South Evanston and emergency numbers such as police, Aid. Rainey's number, and any information that can make the residents feet that, whether they are renters or owners, they are not separated from the community because of it, and to promote pride in their neighborhood. Mr. Sullivan asked if there were questions. Ms. Butrus said she commends their project and asked, addressing insurance issues, who would maintain the banners, who would put banners back up when they've been blown t:DBG Rntiew Sleeting Tuesday. October 24. 2006 Meeting Minutes. Page 31 of 16 down, what if something happens and the banners fall down, has that been talked about with the city, and who will be emptying the tmshcans. Aid. Rainey interjected that when the City's committees approve banners, it is assumed that the City takes responsibility for them. Mr. Sullivan said they based their idea on the 5's Ward's application, but they decided not to put banners on every pole, so they don't block all the beautiful trees. They propose to put banners on every other pole on every other block — "tastefully placed." Aid. Rainey thanked Mr. Sullivan for his presentation. Ca'Bov Productions — Villaees of the World Ms. Gemaraiah Borough, of 550 Custer, Evanston, whose phone is 847-420-5501, thanked the Committee for their support the last couple of years. She stated that the Villages of the World project is a new direction for her. Last summer when she was going to help out with the Summer Youth Employment Program, one of the issues that was brought up was diversity/racial issues and as she thought about it throughout the summer, she realized that one of the ways she learned about getting over prejudices and biases was that when her father traveled to India, he brought it back and she was immersed in India. Growing up in El Paso, her diversity was more religious than color, but it was diverse and they had a great town because they all got along together. They Iearned how to live together. When she presented the issue of working on racial issues, everyone said, "You can't tackle that! It's too big!" So the idea is to start out with just one village. Part of the reason for that is to honor her father, but also because she has the most resources from India. She will go back to the public schools in El Paso and ask to borrow all of the slides and equipment that her father collected that will help build the little village. The production part is having high school teens learn to use the camera equipment and document the creation of the village, and at the end of the summer, to document the four weeks of camp for fourth or fifth graders who will study India. Hopefully the program will grow into other villages for summer camp. Aid. Rainey said the proposal is probably the most intense, complete proposal they've ever gotten, and she appreciates the amount of work she put into it. Aid. Rainey asked, "Are you saying that you are no longer going to be working with the Summer Youth Program?" Ms. Borough replied that that is what she has done for the past two summers. It wasn't clear when she proposed the idea whether it would or could be incorporated into that program, she thinks, because of the four weeks of camp, although the youth would still be working during that time. She felt that she should propose it here as well. Aid. Rainey thanked her. Aid. Bernstein congratulated Ms. Buroughs on her two awards for her film. Evanston Community Develop_ ment Comoration — Micro Business Development Ms. Cathy Katona. Part Time Executive Director of the Evanston Community Development Corporation (ECDC), introduced herself and stated that their Post Office Box is PO 6599, Evanston, IL, 60204, and their phone number is 847-756-0159. Ms. Katona thanked the Committee for letting her present her proposal earlier than scheduled, and for the funding for the past year with the 2005-06 allocation of S30,000, which allowed ECDC to accomplish several of its main goals, which, not coincidentally, correspond to the City of Evanston's goals. Ms. Katona explained: First, for the first 2 years of ECDC's existence, they functioned with a dynamic board leader and a committed volunteer board, but did not have staff capacity to carry out the functions of CDOG Review Meeting Tuesday, October 24, 2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 12 of 16 the organization, as ECDC's aggressive mission could not be realized by relying on volunteerism alone. Over the last year, the biggest accomplishment of ECDC has been the ability to hire a professional part time Executive Director, herself, to follow up on Board direction after each ECDC Board meeting, and to help implement the ECDC Strategic Plan. Specifically, this year, ECDC offered the following: The coordination of home ownership classes to Evanston residents, graduating about 40 people with at least 80 people attending at least one session, and at least 90% ofthese attendees were from Evanston. They marketed 5 single family homes, rehabbed and built by the Evanston Housing Coalition, of which 3 contracts have been signed to current Evanston residents who were faced with the possibility of having to move from their home, which they consider Evanston. With more than 80 families visiting these homes, almost all of them were Evanston residents. They were able to leverage almost 56.6 million of low income housing tax credits to develop a 27-unit rent -to -own building which did not require any money from the city, again making the possibility of home ownership a reality for Evanston residents. They worked with a number of individuals regarding finding full time employment, hosted a national night out picnic to bring the community together, hosting 250 community members and leaders, sponsored West Side Story II to highlight the redevelopment on the west side of the city, and counseled a number of local businesses on how to operate in order to create new jobs for local residents. Ms. Katona continued: "A number of our successes are not measurable but still remain significant:" ECDC is taking a more active role in supporting local policy development geared towards supporting and retaining Evanston families and they are also starting to bridge together the organizations involved with business development, to develop the more seamless delivery of small business services to support our small businesses, plus advocating for small business owners in Evanston, which are key to Evanston's economy. Most importantly, they have expanded their outreach and have identified numerous families looking for affordable housing in Evanston, providing; the evidence needed to support affordable housing initiatives in the city. In the next year, depending on the funds they receive from CDBG and other outstanding grant proposals, ECDC intends to continue its aggressive programming on the west side. With the funding from CDBG they intend to retain a part time Executive Director and add a part time Office ,assistant, which will allow their pan time Executive Director to continue to forge new partnerships, programs and initiatives rather than taking; on administrative and coordination duties. Reasons for ensuring; this type of staffing are evident based on the goals that ECDC has set for itself in 2007. First, ECDC is currently under consideration for a S 15,000 Mott Grant to be used exclusively for community outreach. CDBG funds will support their community outreach and organizing; efforts by ensuring; the hiring of administrative stai'to coordinate accomplishing their community outreach work. Second, ECDC is under consideration for a 575,000 grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to develop a community computing center in the Church-Dodgc area which will be used exclusively to improve the computer literacy of CDBG Review Meeting Tuesday, October 24. 2006 Sleeting Minutes, Pasc 13 of 16 local residents and to help local unemployed and underemployed residents in their job searches. The grant from DCEO is earmarked to fund the procurement of software and hardware for the center, security for the building and the hiring of experts to teach courses. CDBG funds will provide them the operating; expenses to run the community computer center and coordinate the volunteer activities of those who will serve at the center. Finally, CDBG funds will assure that ECDC can play an even more active role in coordinating activities of various organizations in the field of affordable housing, business and economic development, and work force development. In the area of affordable housing;, ECDC will be coordinating with those organizations involved with affordable housing to act as a resource to the Housing Commission to offer suggestions as to how to use affordable housing dollars, where the biggest impacts can be made, and make recommendations as to what programs may best benefit local residents. ECDC will continue to run home ownership classes and will expand its program to include stand- alone courses dealing with budgeting, credit analysis, predatory lending and ARM loans to educate local home owners on how to prepare to purchase their first homes and for those who may already own homes, the types of loans they may currently have, and to prepare for changes in the amount of their payments towards the interest and principal in their mortgages. With the passing of the lnclusionary Housing Ordinance, ECDC will partner with developers to match residents in need of affordable homes to the units developed by local developers, to assure that affordable housing opportunities that arise from the ordinance do go to Evanston families looking to buy their first home. ECDC will also continue to work with the local CHODOs in looking for atfordable housing development opportunities. In the area of business and economic development, ECDC will continue to work with the Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Development Center, and the City to determine strategies to support the small business network in Evanston, which is the key to the economic health and wealth of the city. In the area of work force development, ECDC intends to work with local employers to encourage them to hire locally and work with local developers and the city to ensure that in cases where general contractors have indicated an interest in hiring locally, that local residents are included in job opportunities based on the boom of development we have seen in Evanston. ECDC will also be partnering with the Youth Job Center, with the hope that the Youth Job Center will use the ECDC community computer center as another outpost for the Youth Job Center's efforts. Other organizations concerned with the creation of a marketable workforce such as OLE and the Defender's Office, will be given access to the computer center so they can run their programs in the Church -bodge area as well. Although ECDC has come a long way over the past year at establishing themselves as a player in the areas of affordable housing, business and economic development and work farce development, they recognize, as they hope the Committee does, that there still remains a lot to accomplish. They hope the allocation of more funds from the CDBG program will allow them to build their capacity to serve the residents and businesses on the west side of Evanston. Ms. Katona concluded, "I know we can do it. I ask for your support of our request for S85,000 so that we can do it. Thank you." AId. Rainey asked if there were any questions. CDBG Rtniew Ntee6ng Tuesday, October 24.2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 14 of 16 Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he did not hear, in her mention of who ECDC would be partnering with, Evanston Township High School. Ms. Katona replied that they have been discussing with the high school how they can incorporate them and they've already discussed how they can play a role in helping support the computer center. Aid. Rainey asked where the computer center would be. Ms. Katona replied that hopefully they are looking at the second floor of Mt. Pisgah Church. Ms. Burros noted, regarding the budget, the Executive Director's salary is S57,000 for a part time Executive Director, and S22,000 for a part time Administrative Assistant. What does part time consist of? Ms. Katona replied that part time is 15 hours a week at $15.00 an hour for the Administrative Assistant, his. Burris asked how many hours a week the Executive Director works, to which Ms. Katona replied, 20 hours a week, noting that benefits life health insurance, are not provided to part-time employees. Aid. Jean -Baptiste remarked that the $50,000 appears to be high in light of the fact that CDBG has limited funds. Confirming that Ms. Katona serves as the part time Executive Director, he asked if she is working part time or full time, and what kind of allocation is currently in the budget to support the work she does. Ms. Katona replied that she is currently being paid for 20 hours a week of work at $50.00 an hour, however, she probably puts in more like 30 to 35 hours a week. She added that she doesn't believe in punching the time clock. Aid. Rainey asked what is the new figure, per hour? Ms. Katona replied that it is $60.00 per hour. And that is also with the hope that if she were unable to work, there would still be funds allocated to hire a part time or even a full time Director. And those funds would partially come from the Mott Grant that they are receiving. Aid. Rainey asked if she is sure they are receiving the Mott Grant. Ms. Katona replied that she is "crossing her fingers." She said she has received strong indication that they will be betting it. She has not heard from the state about the DCEO grant yet. Aid. Rainey asked where their offices are. Mr. Katona replied that they are at her home. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if they used to have an office. Ms. Katona said they used to have an office at 1915 Church from September until December of last year. Since there is construction there they haven't been able to use that office space. They have been talking to Beaucoup, which is going to be moving into 1823 Church, to hopefully have an ECDC presence there. Aid. Rainey asked what Beaucoup is. Ms. Katona explained that she could not do as much justice to explaining Beaucoup as the Director, Carolina Pfister. Ms. Pfister is planning to set up a cultural center that will focus on well-being and healthy living, providing computer classes, tutoring, dance and movement classes, hip hop, a recording studio, etc., trying to create programming that will engage the youth in the Church and Dodge area. Aid. Rainey asked if there is going to be room for serious work in this environment. Ms. Katona said, I lopefuily." Arts. Burrus asked if the foundation grants projected is only from the Mott Foundation. Ms. Katona replied that S 15,000 is from the Mott Foundation. They are also receiving S9,000 from the Root2fruit grant from the Evanston Community Foundation, which also goes towards the salary. Aid. Rainey asked if S9,000 is a big grant for Root2fruit. Ms. Katona replied that she thinks it is the amount they give everybody. his. Burrus asked if there would be jobs created beyond the Executive Director and Administrative Assistant jobs for Evanston residents. Ms. Katona replied that hopefully that would be accomplished through the computer center, to increase the literacy of individuals so that they are more marketable in the work place. Ms. Burrus remarked that then it is really education vs. To CDBG Review Mating Tuesday, October 24, 20M Melting minutes. Page is or 16 economic development. Ms. Katona explained that economic development would be tied to their working with Evanston businesses to see if they would be willing to hire locally. Aid. Jean -Baptiste offered to help explain further, saying that regarding job creation, ECDC would not be creating these jobs through its funding, but through advocacy. Ms. Katona confirmed, yes, through advocacy, as well as through advocating for small business development. Aid. Jean -Baptiste added, since they will be out -reaching, urging, and also preparing people to get work, in terms of the work force development that is already being done, could she explain how that will be enhanced by more funding and commitment. Ms. Katona replied that currently the number one educational organization in the area is probably the Youth Job Center, and that it is going to be focusing on youth between the ages of 16 and 24. ECDC is hoping to target people outside of this range and offer access to the computer center as well as educational courses. Aid. Rainey said that one of the things that is curious is that they have never been able to get the Youth Job Center out of Public Service and they certainly generate employment opportunities for people and that might be part of the question: Why is this economic development the formulation of jobs — the job training. Ms. Katona deferred to Mr. Ron Fleckman, a Board member of ECDC. His company is doing the Church Street project in the old Hines Lumber site. He stated that he thinks Cathy is being modest about encouraging local business owners to involve community members in operations, He has told all of his subcontractors that they will bring community members as, not apprentices, but employees given an opportunity to learn the beginnings of various trades from carpentry to HVAC to electrical to plumbing to excavation, etc., and that is solely because of their involvement and the encouragement they have gotten from ECDC. Ms. Burrus asked how people are going to be employed. Aid. Rainey asked if something is in writing. Mr. Fleckman replied that it is a good question, that there is nothing in writing, it's actually his company voluntarily saying they're going to do that. They've leaned on their subcontractors who have all agreed to take on someone, not to train, but to hire to be available to work and learn some basic skills. Every one of their subcontractors has been told by them that if they want the job, these are the conditions. Aid. Rainey asked if there is a line in the subcontract that says that they will hire them and teach them the skills. Mr. Flcckman replied that the teaching part is hard because the subcontractors are not necessarily educators. They are workmen. The people hired will be learning by doing in a somewhat rough setting, not a formal internship training. It will be a good learning experience for the youth hired, and for the contractor to learn that there are good people out there who want to work and learn a trade. Aid. Rainey asked if they have a benchmark of, for example 10 or 20? Mr. Fleckman guesses some will have 2, some will have 1. They have five major and 15 minor "subs." They will not let youth work on roofs, ladders, scaffolds, or be put in any situations where they can be hurt. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Fleckman to explain what his project, Church Street Village is. Mr. Fleckman explained that it is a 40-unit town house project being built on the i lines Lumber site. They are just about ready to demolish the building. Some of the youth will be working on the demolition, sorting metal and other materials. They will learn the basics at the very beginning of construction project. The guys who are good will get hired. The ones who don't earn their pay, won't get hired. They are bending over backwards and giving them slack and hopefully they'll get a pool of kids from ECDC. Mr. Flcckman said he is happy with the program so far. Ald. Rainey said that the Howard Street construction project will CDBG Review Nfeeting Tuesday, October 24. 2006 Meeting Minutes, Page 16 or 16 be coming up after this one, and Mr. Fleck -man could possibly send the youth he has hired on to the next project. Mr. Fleckman said the project is like an incubator. Take some youth and give them some basic skills so they can go on and enter the job force as semi -skilled labor and start on their way up to a decent job. He said he thinks it's a nice opportunity. Mr. Richmond asked if Mr. Fleckman planned to educate the youth on etiquette of employment: how to show up on time, how to call in if you're sick, basic things that we assume they know but they often don't. Mr. Fleckman said that is a good question and that they will have some very rough discussions with superintendants who will say, "Either produce or get out." He thinks it will be very simple. And if they ask the question, "What do I need to produce?" they'll be answered with the kind of things Mr. Richmond is identifying. There is not going to be any coddling. The subcontractors are not coddling type guys. They are tough guys, both on the training side and on the labor side. Mr. Richmond said in his question he had meant to ask will Mr. Fleckmans' organization itself teach the youth etiquette, before they even get into the work environment. Mr. Fleckman said they hadn't planned on covering basics, but it's not a bad idea to have a 5 or 10 minute discussion saying, "if you're going to be late you call. If you're going to be absent, you call." He said he agrees and that's not a bad idea. Aid. Rainey told him he'll get more experience at that. Mr. Fleckman agreed. It's his first shot. He is excited about the opportunity and hopes it works out and he gets 5 or 10 kids who become marketable. Aid. Rainey said that it is exactly the kind of opportunity that the Council has been trying to create. It is good to see it realized. Aid. Rainey thanked ECDC. Ms. Katona added that she hasn't had a location where she can do training and Aid. Rainey offered for her to use the City of Evanston's Civic Center. If there is a mom available, they can use it on a regular basis. She can call the Facilities Management Department to find out availability. Ms. Katona said she would like a team of 5 self- selected youths in support of one another, to go through a 6-month job skills training process, part of which would be the computer literacy program. That is one of ECDC's ultimate goals. Ms. Katona expressed her thanks for the offer of use of the Civic Center. Aid. Rainey commended them on a job well done. Evanston Business Center and Evanston Online Aid. Rainey stated that neither Evanston Business Center nor Evanston Online had shown up for the meeting. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that they are stricken from consideration for funding unless they ask for reconsideration and they have a legitimate reason for missing the meeting. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to strike them from consideration for a grant. Mr. Schoenfeld seconded the motion, with the modification to strike them only if they do not have a good reason for not appearing. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the motion. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:12 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: STAFF PRESENT: I. CALL TO ORDER MINUTES OF PUBLIC 4IEETING Wednesday, November 1, 2006 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — City Council Chambers Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Coleen Burrus Aid. Anjana Hansen, Crawford Richmond, David Schoenfeld Aid. Ann Rainey, Chair Sarah Flax, Bobbie Newman There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.. AId. Rainey stated that Ald. Jean -Baptiste would be late, so the first presenter would miss his input. Aid. Rainey stated that this is the third and final round of proposals for a little more than $2 million for the CDBG funds for 2007-08 funding period. Aid. Rainey asked that applicants introduce themselves, their organization, and explain how contra-butors, volunteers or clients can get in touch with them. 11. 2007-08 CDBG PROGRAM — COMMITTEE REVIEW OF AGENCY APPLICATIONS Youth Job Center of Evanston —Youth Employment Sunportive Services Ms. Othelia Smith, the Executive Director, introduced herself, stating that the Youth Job Center of Evanston is located at 1114 Church Street, Evanston. Their phone is 847-864-5627. Ms. Smith thanked the Committee for the time and attention they give to the process, but more importantly, for being one of their major sources of support. She introduced the Board of Directors and Staff: Board Chair, Jeff Conney; Founder and Current Board Member, Ann Jeannette; Michael Kaman, Board Member; Pamela Call, Outpost Coordinator at Evanston fligh School; Kim Hoopinbardner, Director of Development; Marguerite Briston, Business Manager; Alison Kelley, Americorp Visits Volunteer who also serves as Employment Outreach Coordinator; Molly Mullins, Out -of - School Youth Coordinator; Linda Williams, S%*A Job Training Coordinator; and Charles Hunt, Computer Trainer/Job Counselor. Job Center founded in 1983 to provide job placement services and support to at -risk youth. This past year a lot of interesting things have happened with tangible results, all of which are in direct alignment with the City of Evanston's Strategic Plan Goals #3 and -#12, which are to generate marketable job skills for Evanston residents and to provide opportunities and engage youth and young adults in productive activities within their community. Some of the activities that have transpired this past fiscal year, and since January, when she was appointed Executive Director, are V. Page 2 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 the Board and Staff collaboratively revised the Youth Job Center mission statement and developed a set of core principals. They heard what their external constituencies were saying, in terms of, they no longer knew who the job center was or what their purposes were. Now it is clearly stated in their mission statement who they are, what they do and their target population, which is providing services to youth ages 14 to 25. They developed a strategic plan, formalized their youth job center intake and assessment process, so effective January 1, not only do job -seekers receive job placement support, they also assess, from the point of intake, a person's level of employability so they can make the appropriate matches. They launched a very aggressive employer outreach campaign, re-engaging the business community, they began operating outside the walls of their homes and they found out what employers' needs are and what they could do to service those needs in addition talking to other organizations as a way to recruit new clients. They served approximately 1,400 youth, 1,I00 of whom are Evanston residents. Approximately 30% were placed in jobs, and they provided counseling, coaching and helped prepare over 500 resumes to others. Thcy have been able to track these figures with the enhancement of their client management system. Now they can collect the data they need to report to funders and community residents. They had 300 youth attend the Job Fair at the Evanston Library. Over 20 employers with jobs attended also. They are now cross -referring supportive services and referrals. his. Smith stated that she appreciates the Committee's past support and hopes to have continued support to address and accomplish the goals that are within the City of Evanston's Strategic Plan. Aid. Rainey stated that most of the Committee knows their services well, and not to be offended if there are no questions. She commended Ms. Smith on a great job. Ms. Jeannette stated that Ms. Smith has interesting graphs about the distribution of the clients in the various wards. Aid. Rainey asked that they pass them out. Ms. Jeannette also stated that as the founder, she is thrilled with the direction and progress the YJC has taken. Youth Action Ministry - YAHAnnual Colleee Retreat Ms. Camry Carmen, Vice President of Youth Action Ministry introduced herself and stated that they can be reached at 847-869-6955. They meet at 2nd Baptist Church on every fourth Sunday of every month. Their Executive Director is Kenneth Rogers, who can also be reached at 869-6955. She then asked her Board to stand so they could be identifted in case the Committee has questions for them later. She explained: YAM was started in 1982 by 2"d Baptist members, to reach out to it's younger members to discuss the issues of teens growing up. YAM reaches out to the youth of the community through YAM EXCEL, an educational non-profit organization. E%en though it is best known for its college retreat, they hold workshops and they volunteer. It has helped her to learn valuable skills such as how to organize and plan events, work hard, come into contact with diverse groups and to hear and share her ideas with others, as they work for the common purpose, to do the best they can to help their communities. She then introduced Brandon Worlich, a junior at Evanston I ligh School. Ile went on the YAM college tour and he stated that it taught him what he should be looking for in a college and how to choose a good college, questions he should ask the college administrator. Ile thinks that YAM is good for the community and for teaching young people things he should know about life, such as choosing good colleges. Ms. Leah Shanker, a junior at Evanston High Page 3 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 School, then introduced herself, and stated that she attended the YAM Retreat over the summer, and that without it she would not have a good idea of what she wants to look for in a college, and it helped her learn that she wants a big campus. Mr. Justin Perkins, Board member and Evanston High School student, then introduced himself. He stated that he has never learned so much and had fun at the same time. The trip taught him how to be responsible while living without parents: waking up, eating and being responsible for money. It has taught him really good lessons in life and aside from the educational value of the trip, they visited the Civil Rights Museum and other historical landmarks that gave him a chance to get a feel for Tennessee. The Church is really important, he feels, "because males don't have enough exposure to college and this trip gives males exposure to college life, and what it's like and what it takes to get there, so the trip was very important." He is a senior at Evanston High School. Ald. Rainey asked whether he plans to attend college, and his reply was "Hopefully Moorhousc." Aid. Rainey asked if they visited Moorhouse, to which he replied that they did not, but they visited other schools in Tennessee. Jacqueline Newsom, President of the Youth Action Ministry EXCEL then introduced herself, thanking the Committee for their confidence in the group and the last year's funding. She stated that without it the trip would not have been as successful as it was. They took 32 students on the trip this year. They have not taken that many students in 5 years, and it was because of the Committee's funding. She stated that they can not continue their work without the Committee's support, but that with their financial and emotional support, they can improve the quality of their trip 100%. They will continue to do their fund raisers, community service activities and their educational workshops and she promises that they will recruit even more non -minority students and visit even more non -historically black colleges. But, she reiterated, they cannot do it by themselves. Their goal is to renew the hope in the eyes of students. Their desire is to help students realize that college is a real possibility, but without the help of the Committee, there will be many colleges unseen, and many students continuing on the downward spiral that they are on, and she will be extremely disappointed. She then asked for questions. Aid. Bernstein asked what colleges some of the alumni of their program have gone to. Ms. Newsom replied: NYU, Howard University, Tennessee State, Alabama A & M and others. She added that 80% of the YAM alumni will go to college, and 50% will go to a college that YAM visited. Aid. Rainey asked that YAM provide a report each year about who, from previous trips, went to college, and which colleges they attend, to show how successful the trips are. Aid. Bernstein remarked that they made his heart smile the first time they came before the Committee, and that he appreciates seeing young people doing what they're doing, and to keep it up. Aid. Rainey told Ms. Newsom that the Committee appreciates them and loves supporting them, and to keep up the good work. CFDA/Neii'hbors at Work — Minor Renairs/Paiarine : t c,sistance Prourum Ms. Patricia Vance, Executive Director of CEDA Neighbors at Work, introduced herself, stated that they can be found at 1229 Emerson, Evanston, and at 847.329-5166. She stated that she is there to ask for the continued support for the program which makes sure that people are able to maintain their building codes, and to maintain the affordability and decency of the homes in which they live. The CDBG money goes toward the direct J MW MW Page 4 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 services of the program. They have leveraged funds from other sources to help pay for some of the administrative costs associated with the program, so the CDBG money goes towards the labor cost. One of the things they continue to do is make sure they hire people from the community, and use local Evanston businesses. This program offers minor carpentry work and repairs and interior and exterior painting to home owners. The demand always exceeds their capability to handle the work, however they do give preference to those properties sited by the City of Evanston and within the CDBG target area. They have found that the majority of their clients are senior citizens, and fall within the CDBG guidelines as far as their income — extremely low. For most people, this is one of the only sources they have to help them maintain their homes. Since it's beginning, the program has consistently been in demand. They are the only program in town offering this service. They work in conjunction with Property Standards, so all work is within compliance. She thanked the Committee again for their support and asked for their future support. Aid. Rainey asked whether the people who work in the program have been there very long, or if there is a turnover. Ms. Vance replied there is one person who has been working there as a handyman for 6 years and another who is now heading the program, who has been there at least 10 years, there is a new person who has been there for about a year, and there will be a new person in that position. Some have advanced on, having obtained enough skill to start their own businesses. Some have gotten other jabs that pay higher wages. Aid. Rainey asked her how someone could apply for the open position. Ms. Vance said they are looking for a handyperson to do minor carpentry and interior and exterior painting, and have some skills, and minimal experience. She said if someone is interested, to submit a resume and call the supervisor, Charles Henley at 847-328- 3166. Do not ask for Ms. Vance. AId. Rainey thanked her for her presentation. There were no questions. Parks. Forestry & Recreation Department. Citv of Evanston — Perm Park Renovation Mr. Doug Gaynor thanked the Committee for the opportunity to come before them. This year they propose to renovate Adam Perry Park. It is in the Evanston Strategic Plan for Parks. Perry Park is between Church and Emerson on Hovland Court. It is a 5600,000 project. Mr. Gaynor stated that there is a typo in the material submitted. They are requesting 5200,000 from CDBG, 5200,000 from the CIP, and they received 5200,000 from the Department of Natural Resources, about which they are very excited. If they get all three grants, they will be able to complete the renovation. He introduced Mr. Paul D'Agostino, who presented a visual plan of the proposed park's renovation. He stated that the neighborhood is very excited about having separate play areas for the small children and the older children. lie pointed out the play areas. They propose to bring the park activity closer to the sidewalk, and away from the alley. There are no benches currently in the park, so they are proposing lots of seating, game tables, and plenty of lighting, a big issue with the neighborhood. The whole design has been worked around existing trees. The park is approximately half an acre. It was last worked on in 1991. Mr. D'Agostino asked if there were any questions. Aid. Rainey then asked if 5600,000 for half an acre is the going rate. Mr. D'Agostino said it was pretty close, but this one is a little higher than some of the Others because of the amount of lighting that they are required to put in. Lighting is expensive, and that is also the reason why it will take a Page 5 _ Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 little longer to do this park. Once they get a contractor on board, the lead time to get the lights can be up to three months, from the time he orders them to the time they are delivered. Aid. Rainey congratulated them on their program and stated that the Committee will do everything they can to help. There were no further questions. Evanston Police Denartment — Senior Crime Prevention Program Chief Dennis Wilson, the interim Chief of Police introduced himself, Commander James Pickett and Senior Crime Prevention Specialist, Amanda Jones. Chief Wilson stated that they are grateful to the Committee for the chance to appear before them and apply for the continued partial support for the Senior Crime Prevention Specialist and the Senior Crime Prevention Program. He explained that they believe this program is unique in Evanston as it allows seniors in distress a comfortable method of accessing police services and getting additional information and referrals to other senior services in the community. In many respects, Amanda is the Senior Crime Prevention Program. Her efforts on behalf ofthe seniors in this community have been replicated in police departments across the country. Many times seniors are too embarrassed when they are victimized to come forward and say anything. They are afraid of what their families and neighbors will think. Through Amanda's unique skills and talent she is able to bring these problems out to stop the circle of victimization. Chief Wilson said that as he is at the leading edge of the baby boomers who just turned 60 this year, he is especially glad of programs like this and that people like Amanda are here for us. There are two primary components to the Senior Crime Prevention Program: The first is pro -active prevention and education. Amanda works on strategies to prevent and reduce crime against seniors and educate not just the older adults, but their family members, health care workers, citizens, retirement home staff and those that come into contact with this population frequently, such as bank tellers and taxi cab drivers. The second component is reactive strategy and assistance. This program makes it easy and more comfortable for the seniors to access police services and find additional needed social services for the long haul. Amanda and this program are a valuable part of the Evanston Police Department, as shown by the constant favorable letters and comments received by the Police Department about her and all that she does for the community, and the local and national recognition she has achieved. Last "Yfarch she received the Police Chief's Special Award for Services Above and Beyond the Call of Duty in Community Policing. In May of this year she was presented with the Leaders in Aging Individual Award for Services to Seniors from the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, in Washington, D.C.. Chief Wilson introduced Amanda Jones, who stated that she is approaching her eighth anniversary with the Police Department. She told the Committee about an issue regarding undesirable persons at the Housing Authority of Cook County. it was an issue that Aid. Rainey was right to be annoyed about, and it is something that Amanda has spent a great deal of the last year working to correct. Last year there was an individual in one of the Housing Authority buildings who had not lied on his application, but had omitted the fact that he was a convicted sex offender, a felon, and on parole from another state. fie then went about trying to steal equipment from the building he was living in, was caught on videotape, and it was taking an extraordinarily long time to remove this individual from this building, in spite of the fact that there had been this omission on his Page 6 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November I, 2006 application, and that he had been caught stealing Subsequent to her appearance before the Committee last year, she went with her supervisor and requested a meeting with higher- ups in the County to ask them to explain to them why, if they could evict someone for lying on an application, could they not also move with dispatch to evict someone for lying by omission, especially given the seriousness of this gentleman's charges and history. There was a lengthy appeals process, the higher ups in the County, not the building manager, who has been very responsive to them in the last year, said they were concerned about due process. Amanda stated that she is a big fan of due process but in this case she felt the due process was weighted against the residents and in favor of someone who had clearly violated if not the letter, the spirit of the tenant's agreement. So in asking what screening steps the County took to ensure that the residents would not be sharing their residence with people such as this, she was informed that they did a national and a local background check. She suggested that they apply for a refund, because it had not in fact turned up some very obvious and dangerous offenses. That person is now gone, regrettably with a housing voucher in another community at a building with "increased supervision," which makes her very angry. However, in the last year, because they've been showing up at residents' council meetings, meeting with managers, and discussing how many calls to Service there are in the Housing Authority of Cook County properties in Evanston, they have watched Five other persons who were causing disruptive or criminal situations in those buildings, be removed. She has no plans for that to stop. The vigilance of herself and Office Lloyd Speltz, who has been very involved with one of the buildings, and other people in the department, and the cooperation of the manager, has gone a long way to increase the safety of people in that building. Furthermore, she got an email today saying that yesterday one of the residents who had harbored a convicted sex offender under the guise of being a caretaker, for much of the last several years, did in fact lose his appeal in the courts and he too, will be packing suitcases. Ms. Jones then compared the trick -or -treaters to the senior residents, who come to her for help. Some are very specific about what they need, others aren't sure, some are greedy, and some are afraid until they feel comfortable. Hcr jab is to make it easy for people to feel welcome, comfortable and that their needs are welcomed by her, and that she never scolds anyone for coming to her more than once. It is not only the people who come to her for help one time, but people who are gullible to predators, who may run things by Ms. Jones before they buy into them, yet again, Another thing she has noticed is that the program continues to evolve. Aging now is not the same as it was ten years or forty years ago. One of the plans for the future is to form a list serve so seniors can access crime prevention information and safety strategies on line, because the number of older adults who are now accessing the internet has increased ten fold, She checked those figures with the Levy Center's membership. They used to have double digit email addresses in their membership. It is now in the triple digits and increasing. The internet hook is important because she won't just be reaching the seniors who have internet savvy, but she can reach their children, their grandchildren and their neighbors. It is a much faster way to disseminate information while she's doing the usual strategies. 'The File -of -life card is one of the old stand bys that continues to be successful beyond her wildest dreams. She still has the English and bi-lingual versions. One of the police academy graduates provided her with a Russian cover letter for the file -of -life card. And she now has a wallet version. In this quarter alone she has distributed well over 200 Page 7 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 cards. Regarding veterans, not just for the Vietnam veterans, but for the other veterans that require specialized services, it is not going to be enough to treat Vietnam and Korean War veterans as we treated World War If veterans because each war had a different set of dynamics. She continues to get training as time and budget allows. This year she received extra training in competency and guardianship, confidentiality and substance abuse by older adults, another growing problem. She also does training. She spoke at the Elder Rights Conference and conducted a workshop and she was asked by the Aging Well Committee to conduct a workshop at the 2007 Committee meeting. She then asked for questions. Mr. Crawford asked if she meant prescription drugs when she referred to substance abuse by older adults. Ms. Jones said yes, prescription drugs, alcohol abuse, and also an aging population which still engages the "drugs and rock'n'roll" stuff. So it is not what a World War II veteran might have faced, but for some Vietnam veterans or for people who lose their spouses and become isolated and depressed, often it is a form of self -medicating, and can be cheaper than prescription drugs. Those who arc vulnerable to substance abuse are also vulnerable to victimization by others who exploit that weakness. Aid. Bernstein expressed his thanks for Ms. Jones' smice to his constituency over the years, and asked if this is the first time she's applied for a full time position. He asked if she had been part time with funding strictly from CDBG. She stated that she is still part time and she is paid by a combination of CDBG and the Levy Family Foundation funds. He asked if her position would still be part time, She said, as far as she knows, however, she is pleased to entertain other suggestions. Aid. Rainey asked how many hours a week she works. She replied that she works thirty. There were no further questions. Aid. Rainey thanked her for her service, especially for her work in the senior buildings. Ald. Bernstein asked if they prosecuted the man she talked about earlier for theft. She said they did prosecute him but a lot of times they're not willing to prosecute as vigorously as she would ask that they did. She did engage in another prosecution of an individual who was stealing checks from another individual with dementia and memory issues and he was prosecuted and the outcome is still uncertain, but he is no longer living in that building. Purchasing Department. Citv of Evanston r- MBF./li BE/EBE Pravram Mr. Lloyd Shepard, Program Administrator for the Minority Women and Evanston Business Enterprise Program, introduced himself, expressed his thanks to the Committee for funding the program in the past and his hope that they will continue to do so. He continued, "As you can see project and program proposed for this year, he has itemized the scope of responsibilities outlined in the resolution reconstituting the Minority Women Advisory Committee, which serves as the scope of work. He said lie understood that this Committee needed a broader perspective on what the program does day to day. They have fulfilled all the items in the scope of work except for assessment of needs and the researching and establishing of mentor. protege program. The Program will be addressing those issues this year. Several things they intend to do this year that they haven't done in the past, is to put together an employment program. They had been told by the law department that this would be difficult for them to do. I lowever after the law . department did further research they found six models from other cities, among which are Milwaukee, WI, Oakland, CA, Boston, Waterbury, CT., they found that as long as a Page 8 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 program is using their own funds, CDBG funds or an Urban Development Action Grant Program funds, they have the right to require contractors to hire local residents. Fie will be providing this information to his Advisory Committee, which includes Aid. Jean - Baptiste, who is serving as interim chair. The other new component is a collaboration between several City staff members working on an apprenticeship program. His part is to work with the US Dept. of Labor and the IL Dept. of Employment Security to structure the elements of the apprenticeship program to present to the City Manager, for her to present to City Council. They also plan to bring Evanston High School, Oakton Community College and Triton College in to collaborate. They are going to work with unions, as they would have to participate in an apprenticeship program. In an Advisory Committee this year they have put together a comprehensive questionnaire to send to Evanston businesses to assess their needs. They will then match the businesses' needs to the resources they have available such as the small business development Center, the Small Business Administration, various colleges that have graduate programs and welcome projects for their graduate students. They are conducting an economic impact study. He is going to suggest to the Committee that they use the responses from the questionnaires for the study, to understand what it will take to help businesses expand and create additional jobs in Evanston. Any other information about the program is in the proposal. He offered to answer questions. Ald. Rainey asked Mr. Shepard to clarify what the City of Evanston's role would be in the apprentice training program. MT. Shepard replied that there are a large number of unskilled, unemployed Evanston residents behveen the ages of 18 and 30. Aid. Rainey interjected that she doesn't understand how we would implement a program for them. Where would we house it? Mr. Shepard replied that they haven't gotten to that part yet, apologizing that he does not have more information. He is working on the component that he is contributing, which is gathering the questionnaire material. AId. Rainey asked, "So you don't see that becoming a significant operation of your department within the next year?" Mr. Shepard thinks it will take the next year to bet it organized, and probably implemented in the following year. She asked him for an update on the diversity conference. He reported that it was held on October 12, they had 20 buying organizations from both the public and private sector and they had 110 businesses attend. Ile believes it was successful. Aid. Rainey asked what comes out of that success. He replied that the idea of it is for Evanston businesses to have an opportunity to, within an hour or 1%vo, market their products and services to 20 companies that are diverse, such as Caremark, Motorola and the City of Chicago, Cook County, ,Metropolitan Rail and Chicago Park District. The representatives of those organizations always direct them to the correct person they need to see. Aid. Jean - Baptiste confirmed with Mr. Shepard that he is requesting S96,808, to be focused around salaries and benefits, but Mr. Shepard is running the program. The Committee has previously allocated funds for a secretary to assist him. Regarding expanding the work Mr. Shepard does, the ANPN%' Committee is frustrated about the inability to get people hired or to get minority contractors to hire Evanston residents. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked him, given the fact that he wants to satisfy that objective more in the future, why does he limit his proposal to strictly salary as opposed to developing a program that can produce the support system he needs. Ile also asked, regarding the apprenticeship program, Mr. Shepard is still preparing in the next year. Aid. Jcan-Baptiste has been on the Council for at least 5 years, and they are frustrated. He asked for more a specific proposal as to what f Page 9 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 we can do to bet more jobs programs in place and running, as opposed to waiting to get started. Mr. Shepard replied that, to be frank, most things such as city apprenticeship or employment programs are beyond his control He does the research to find out if a program is legitimate (such as the employment program). If there is going to be an employment program administered by the City of Evanston, then the City Council must approve it. It must be done by ordinance. All he can do is provide the models that arc already in place. The funding of it is up to the City Council. He would love to see it. He has no problem with getting the work done, but once he does the work and it moves into someone else's hands, he has no influence. With the apprenticeship program, he is a but a component of the collaborative program. There are other staff members involved. All he can do is contribute his work to try to present to the body that will move it forward. That is why he hesitates to put it into a timetable. Everything rests with the funds being appropriated, which is way out of his hands. lie has a vision of a lot of things that could be done, such as a mentor -protege program, where we would have major companies work with smaller companies, but the city would have to set aside certain projects for that kind of program to take place. If certain committees and the City Council are not behind the effort of the proposed programs, it will not happen. Aid. Rainey said that these proposals are not supposed to be peoples' hopes and dreams. They are supposed to be fact -based and what you plan to do. That is why she asked the question about the City's employment program, and exactly what he means by that. Mr. Shepard replied that he has been asked to do the research to determine if an employment program for a construction project is legal. That means, when a contractor comes to Evanston, he is required to hire a certain number of residents, and that is what he's done. Aid. Rainey clarified that that is the employment program lie is referring to. Aid. Bernstein clarified that the impediment Mr. Shepard sees is the lack of an ordinance, and asked him to outline an ordinance that would help him. Aid. Rainey asked, "Are you asking the City Council to mandate that our projects be "x" number of minorities?" Mr. Shepard said the employment program, based on the models that he's reviewed, that the law dept. provided, is that these municipalities have an ordinance that when a contractor does work for their community that they, through the contract are obligated to hire a number of the municipality's residents in the various trades that are going to work that project. Aid. Bernstein asked how that is different than the development agreements that we get into for our own projects that do contain that kind of language. Mr. Shepard replied that the language in our re -development agreements is not enforceable. Ald. Bernstein asked Mr. Shepard to bring forward the ordinances you require to bet this show on the road. Mr. Shepard consented to do so. Ald. Bernstein stated that where the City Council is the problem, they can fix it. Aid. Jean -Baptiste added that, regarding an ordinance drafted, the Council wants to see what the end product would be. He wants to see a program. Mr. Shepard said they are putting the program together now. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if they pass an ordinance saying "get some people hired," then can he have some deliverables this year. Mr. Shepard said yes, he could, as lie would have enforcement. Ald. Jean - Baptiste said the activism and advocacy from the department is another important issue besides the ordinance that requires hiring. lie also said, regarding the issue of the secretary, that Mr. Shepard is doing everything alone, that the Committee advocated for a secretary, that in his proposals Mr. Shepard never asked for a secretary. Fie asked if he could have a more effective program if he had more assistance. Mr. Shepard answered ■�i a ,,YY Page 10 —Minutes CDBG Review Mceting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 that he could. Aid. Jean -Baptiste then asked why he has not advocated for assistance, Mr. Shepard replied that in the past he was under different management. Aid. Rainey interjected that the new Finance Director was in the audience, and asked him to share with the Committee whether a secretary had been hired, since there was money allocated and they were told that it would be split 50-50 between the Finance Director's office and the NMFJWBE/EBE office. The Finance Director stated that he understands that that was supposed to happen, and that he doesn't think it has, in the past. Aid. Rainey asked if the person is on board, The Finance Director stated that this administration will make a commitment to providing that 50% person effort to assist. The Finance Director said he will find a resource to make that happen. They are putting together the budgets now. He thinks there is a gentleman that is on board and that he was supposed to have been shared, and hasn't been. Aid. Rainey asked that he get back to them regarding the assistant. He assured her that he will get back to her and work with Lloyd towards getting the assistant in place 50%, and work towards getting some achievable goals in place for the next year. He wasn't aware that the Committee had the concerns that were expressed here. He stated that he has been involved in other cities that had MWBE programs that were successful and he will share his experience. Aid. Rainey thanked him. There were no further questions. Interfaith Housing Center — Homesharine Proeranr and Foreclosure Prevention Proirram Ms. Gail Schechter, Director of the interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs, introduced herself, stating that they are located in Winnetka but they are a fair housing agency and affordable housing advocacy group as well and they cover the 16 communities of northern Cook and a couple of southern Lake County communities including Evanston. Jackie Grossman, of Interfaith Housing Center's Homesharing Program introduced herself, stating that their phone number is 847-501-5760. Ms. Schechter stated that she hopes that D'Angelo Bester will be joining them. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Schechter to share with the Committee news about a HUD grant for S274,000 for fair housing enforcement work, an 18-month project in which they will be doing some major testing in sales, rental and some lending and some testing of senior facilities. There have been a lot of facilities that have been advertised as not accepting people with disabilities that they've had concerns about, which they are very excited about, and on top of that, they found out 2 days ago that Interface is one of only two groups in the mid - west that got a second grant from HUD for fair housing education. They had gotten a grant a few years ago where they did some fair housing trainings, and Aid, Bernstein was a part of that. They tried to get a renewal and only one group in Illinois in the last couple of years got an education grant and MUD notified them that they had extra 2005 money, so they're very excited about that. It modifies their request in their original proposal because they won't need as much. Ms. Grossman then began the I1omeSharing presentation. She has been doing her job for 9 years. She is a "matchmaker" who matches senior citizens with someone who needs affordable housing. Rents are between 5400 and $500 a month, including all utilities and the renter pays for their flood and their phone. Often it helps a senior age in place. Sometimes they just need a little extra income to pay for home maintenance or taxes, or sometimes they just need some assistance to stay independent, for example, a woman who suffers from vascular dementia, who relocated Page I 1 — Minutes CDBG Review Mceting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 from another state to live with her sort. Ifer son works some nights and was concerned about !caving his mother at home. She met a woman who is a widow and a church secretary with a teenage daughter who were living in a basement that flooded in Chicago. So she pays $400 in rent and she stays in their I -bedroom in-law apartment and provides care for the gentleman's mother when he's at work and takes her shopping and to church. Aid. lean -Baptiste asked how many people she has placed. She stated that she did 34 matches last year. 22 of them were for either Evanston residents or employees. Aid. Rainey commented that it is a program that is so cheap to run. Every placement is the same thing as a brand new housing unit and it creates new housing in the most effective, efficient way possible. Aid. Rainey thanked them for their work. Ms. Schechter expressed her appreciation for the Committee's support. Even though it is the most diverse program, it is often difficult to get private funding because it doesn't evolve. It is the same program every year. Aid. Rainey commented that they have it down so well. Ms. Schechter introduced D'Angelo Bester, who is working with Interface 2 days a week. The rest of the time he works for the National Training and Information Center, which they found is a benefit to both their groups. NTIC primarily do a lot of work around community re -investment around the country but they've done some excellent research around predatorial lending, so they're really happy to have D'Angelo working with them. Ms. Schechter passed around copies of 2004 information compiled by NTIC based on home mortgage disclosure act data, which shows the different census tracks in lending. Mr. D'Angelo added that he has updated info from 2005 and 2006 providing the number of sub -prime loans and foreclosures started in Evanston. He explained that the NTIC is a not -for -profit organization that gives technical assistance and consulting to not -for -profits all over the country and he is working with Interfaith on a foreclosure prevention task force that they've set up in Evanston. After looking at the data that's been compiled, they felt there was a need to do some work in Evanston. There are potentially 500 -600 families that are at risk of losing their homes within the next year. He explained about adjustable rate mortgages (ARMS), and how they became popular in 2003 and 2004 and a lot of people have taken ARMS either on new purchases or refinances, and ARMS are good products for certain people, but they have found that a lot of people aren't aware of what an ARM is, and when an ARM is reset, interest rates go up and people are faced with higher mortgage payments and ultimately end up in foreclosure. He said he would provide information later showing that 80% of the foreclosures in Evanston are a result of ARMS, So he feels there is a need to do more outreach in the community and get the word out about what Interfaith is doing and letting people know that there is help out there. If they are in AR'%IS or predatory loans, they can come to Interfaith and come to the task force they have set up and hopefully they can get things reconciled. They have brought together a large group of people from counseling agencies like CEDA and Skokie Valley Senior Services and some lenders who are willing to be part of the task force such as LaSalle Bank, First Bank and Trust, Ilards Bank and North Shore Community Bank. One of the reason they brought in lenders is to help people get re -financed. They are trying to come up with new methods to help people. Aid, Rainey asked him for help in reading the chart. I Ic explained the 2004 data: The first column represents the number of people who submitted applications for loans, the next column shows that 71 people completed applications, out of which 41 of them Page 12 -- Minutes CDfJG Rcvlcw Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 find a loan originated, or 6510. 15 of those people were denied, or 21%, Out of the loans that were originated, 5 of them were sub -prime. Ms. Schechter further explained that the data shows that the higher income you are, the more loans you have originated, and the lower income you are:, the more likely you arc to bet a sub -prime loan or to be denied a loan, saying that these arc not surprising statistics. SIr. llester is going to provide more current information. Aid. Rainey asked about a prevention program that points out who are the bad guys: who are the lenders that have the most foreclosures, and are the most predatory. Mr. Bester replied that unfortunately the whole system has changed in that it is not so much who is the bad lender because the laws have changed now to protect the buyers a little bit more. Aid- Rainey asked then, what about the brokers? She asked if we can just say "beware." How- would the average person know who is a good broker and who isn't. Mr. Bester explained that it is not a matter of who is good or bad, but a matter of educating the public about the loan products and what kind of loan they can qualify for and what kind would be good for them. A 7-year ARM for you may be just fine, but you give him that same loan, and it could be predatory. There are Ienders and brokers who have in the past been preying on the residents of Evanston. There is no longer a pattern. We can no longer point to a bank and say they have the highest number of foreclosures in Evanston. What it is now, is just a matter of a bunch of different banks and mortgage brokers giving people loans that they should not have gotten. Aid. Rainey said she knows, in her ward, when she looks up people on the Recorder of Deeds website regarding different problems, she finds Argent and Long Beach over and over. And she is finding that the people getting these loans are not being snookered, they are getting 150% of the value of the property- in a loan, 2 and 3 loans at a single closing, or within months of a closing. Mr. Bester said, again, it is about state legislature and the way the laws are set up. They look at all these loans and unfortunately, the way they're written up, they are not deemed predatory by the standards of the state. Maybe Evanston can come up with a better standard so we can hold these banks accountable, but that is not the case. Mr. Bester said that he thinks that a lot of these loans are predatory; it's just a matter of proving it. Ms. Schechter added that, because of their experience in Evanston and their fair housing enforcement grant they got, they earmarked doing some lending tests, so she'd like to investigate argent, who seems to fall to the top, but if there are some others that the Committee would like them to investigate, they will have the tools to do that. Mr. Hester said that it is really about educating the public and making them aware of what their options are. A lot of people in Evanston have gotten a product called an Option ARM. It is an adjustable rate mortgage where you can pay either your principal and your interest, just the interest, or a minimum paymient which doesn't even cover the interest. Most people take tile: third option, in which case the interest keeps accruing and it is tacked on to the end of the loan, so people get loans for 5200.000 and of er 5 years the loan is now $250,000 and they haven't paid on it at all. So a lot of people have been getting products like that and we need to make: them aware of this. Ald. l6incy then asked them about the change in their application that they mentioned earlier in the review. Ms. Schechter replied that when They applied they didn't know what was going to happen with I IUD. They %ould certainly still like to do the task toree and be able to offer some; alternative prc�ucts to Evanilon residents, but retarding the: counseling piece, they now have the matching money, tio they can ttdjtl%t their request back down to llte level they've been at for the last 2 years. Aid. Itaincy %aid that the C'unuttittcc N very Page 13 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 proud that they got that money. Mr. Bcster asked about holding ward meetings in the Committee's wards. Aid. Rainey said yes, she would appreciate that and thanked him. Health and Human Services Department, Citv of Evanston — Adaptive Dewices for Accessihilitt, Proeranr and Handyman Seri -fees Prnerani Mr. Brian Barnes, the Inclusion Specialist for the Department of Health and Human Services, introduced himself and Alisa Dean, the Department's Communication Coordinator, and stated that in the last 4 years they have provided adaptive devices to low and moderate income Evanston residents who have disabilities, permanent disabilities, and have disabilities that prevent them from living independently in their own homes. The Adaptive Device Program provides devices to older adults as well as young persons with disabilities. Therefore, it has been their experience that such as program such as Adaptive Devices for Accessibility is needed. fie expressed his gratefulness to the CDBG Committee for their continued support and funding that they've provided to make the program possible. With regard to last year's allocation, the program has been able to provide adaptive devices to 24 Evanston residents this year so far. Some examples of the equipment that the program has provided are grab bars, shower chairs, shower hoses, canes and item Teachers. Of the S 10,000 that was allocated for the program, S5,000 was given to the Evanston Fire Department for its program that provides smoke detectors for seniors that are hard of hearing. The Fire Dept, is now in the process of promoting the program, but the Adaptive Device Program is close to depleting all of its funds. Although the number of requests for adaptive devices has decreased since the inception of the program in 2002, the program continues to receive a steady flow of requests for adaptive devices each year. Wards 2, 5 and 9 had the largest number of requests so far. Currently the program has 6 requests that are waiting to be processed. Given these numbers and their experience with the program, they anticipate exhausting their fiscal year 2007 funding by March of 2007. They are asking the Committee to consider their request for funding for next year in the amount of S 12,000. The program has been very well -received. in Evanston. Residents have told them of the program's positive impact on their lives through letters. Aid. Rainey asked that they present the Handyman Services Program and ask if there are questions about either of these two programs after that presentation. Ms. Nancy Flowers, Ombudsman for the City of Evanston, and Supervisor of the Handyman Services Program, introduced herself and stated that the program was established in 1984 and that the Department remains grateful for the Committee's support for the program since that time, and appreciates their consideration for this year's application. The Commission on Aging's Handyman Program provides minor home repair and maintenance assistance to low and moderate income older adults, homeowners and renters in Evanston. The program serves all persons age 62 and older within the target area and all income -eligible persons age 62 and over outside of the target area. The Commission's staff coordinate intake and eligibility and partner and actually contract with CEDA Neighbors at Work for the actual handyman smices. Zachary Bradley, our evening custodian here at the Civic Center, continues as the handyman for this program Page 14 —Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 and is probably the best sales person and feature for this program. In all of her contacts with clients they have been most pleased with his services. When necessary, the program pays for material and supply costs for seniors who are unable to pay for the costs themselves. Part of the grant funding does go to buying anything from small supplies to supplies as large as screen doors that residents are unable to pay for. The program focuses primarily on single women who live alone and are unable to manage some of the minor home repairs, such as installing and removing an air conditioner, cleaning gutters, repairing leaky faucets, repairing toilets, but they've also had more complex partnerships with the Police Department concerning older people concerned about the safety of their homes. They may have had a relative or someone in the neighborhood they felt was preying on them. The Police do an assessment of the home and fax over the recommendaticns for improving the safety of the home. The handyman has then purchased those supplies and installed them so the home was secured. So it's been a very nice partnership with them. One of the other features to the program is that they frequently go into homes where people are isolated, but when Zack is able to go into their home, if he sees something that he's concerned about, if he thinks the person is not functioning well, he will ask her to go and do an assessment, and begin talking with them about some of the other issues that Zack has identified. One of the other things they've added that is not covered under grant money but part of what they do is a volunteer component to the program which involves leaf -raking and snow -shoveling, and sometimes some yard work for those unable to maintain their yards and may have been sited by Property Standards. During the course of the last year, with their S 12,000, they have served 146 households, and so far this year they have had 126 requests for assistance. The program continues to be well -utilized. Every year about one third of the people that approach them are new to the program. For the most part, they are people they are helping maintain their homes and the ability to live independently as long as possible. Aid. Rainey said she is surprised at the numbers of people who know about them, if these people are so isolated. She asked how they find out about them, and what they have to do with the device program. Ms. Flowers answered that, in terms of how they find them, they do put information in the "Highlights", and you would be amazed at how many people read that, but people find out from their neighbors. Ms. Flowers tracks the referrals when they come in. The 5'�. 7`' and 9ei wards are their most common. Churches and some of the social service agencies give them referrals. In terms of how they work with the Adaptive Device Program, it has been installation of grab bars in the bathroom. Aid. Rainey asked how Neighbors at Work fits in. %vfs. Flowers explained that they have a contract with CEDA Neighbors at Work and that for the purposes of this grant, Zack, the handyman is an employee of theirs. The Program does the assessment, checks the income guidelines, verifies the address, does the intake, and faxes it to them and they give the information to Zack and send him out, so they work very closely with them. No further questions were asked. Aid. Rainey thanked them for their presentation. A SHORT BREAK WAS TAKEN Page 15 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 Public Works Department. City of Evanston — Accessible Ramn Propram Mr. David Jennings was introduced by Aid. Rainey, whereupon he began the presentation of his grant request for the ADA Accessible Ramp Program. The Public Works Department is requesting S 100,000 to be primarily used to make accessible ramps at cornersiintersections. They have a small portion of the program that does linear portions of sidewalk if there is a long portion of sidewalk that is not accessible. This year, for example, they did a sidewalk next to Crown Park. It had too much undulation in it; it did not meet ADA standards. With Brian Barnes they identified this as part of their regular curb ramp program. They asked for S50,000 last year, but did close to S 100,000 of work because had a balance from prior years. They have currently spent that down. The second program is the Block Curb and Sidewalk Program. It is a long -running program of many years. They have a component of CDBG funding and a component of CIP General No -Obligation Bond funding. They did 4 sections of CDBG Block Curb and Sidewalk, the largest one being the Oakton sidewalk. They did a connector between Dodge and Skokie to the West that is a sidewalk that can also be used as a bike path. That was one of the largest, but they did others. They are requesting S 150,000 for 2007. The third program is Alley Paving. Traditionally they have used CDBG funds two ways in alley paving. One is to supplement the alley paring program special assessment, where in the target areas they would use the grant to assist the funding which is a combination of private funds from the adjoining property owners, who pay 50% (the City pays the other 50%), and in those areas the CDBG funds were used to offset the city portion. In another program the CDBG funds offset the private portion. The other way they use the CDBG funding is for specific alleys, where they ask that an alley be paved using CDBG funds. It is lesser used, but they have used that process, for example in ttte alley north of Howard, cast of Clyde, within the last 5 years. Every year they look at the alleys that are likely to be paved in the following year and try to determine how best to use the CDBG money. This year they put in S300,000 and they have no target area alleys accepted for paving. So what they are recommending is that they cut that request in half and go down to SI50,000. He will be submitting the paperwork to change the amount requested. He distributed a map of the alley they have selected. They have asked for this alley in the past but there were other funding priorities that have been higher. it is cast of Custer and north of Linden. They have tried to find alleys that for some reason will not gain support through the special assessment process. Half of the alley at Clyde and I-loward is adjacent to the Metra tracks, so after the city picks up their portion, the private share would be only a fourth. 1n this particular alley, the north and south legs, which are east -west, are both already paved and drained and concrete. The connecting piece is not. It is a gravel alley that connects two concrete portions. The east side is the Metra tracks so it is owned by Union Pacific and they have traditionally not assessed the railroads for alleys. They have targeted that one alley, which is in the target area, for their S 150,000 request. Aid. Bernstein asked whether that area he is referring to is just north of the Nabisco Lofts, and is the former Schroeder property (645 Custer), and didn't the developer who is developing that area commit, as a condition to paving that alley. He asked James Wolinski if he could confirm. Mr. Wolinski stated that the project had been delayed, but that he had met with Steve Loam, the principal, about 3 weeks ago, that the project was - , � - , .' Y, t �•� �- ?' a, •ss'-. �'�r cru.r 'Ar�ik,A.� Page 16 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 back on, and that he would check the ordinance and let them know momentarily. Aid. Hansen added that Mr. Loam got an extension on the project and is hoping to proceed with demolition by the end of the year. His part may have been to make the improvements behind his development. Mr. Jennings stated that that would reduce their request. They had done a rough estimate of S 148,000, so it could possibly be reduced to approximately S 110,000. Aid. Rainey asked if they were not to need the entire S 150,000 and if they were to allocate it, could they use some of that money in the target area to do the asphalt paving — Mr. Jennings interjected that it is called "chip -mix." it is a combination of recycled asphalt, and cold -mix asphalt. They mix it together and roll it and it doesn't have the life of a concrete alley, and does not have drainage, but gives a good riding surface for several years. So it eliminates the need to grade, and he thinks it would be a good use. Aid. Rainey said it would be a great use because in a lot of these alleys in the target areas, people desperately need relief but can't afford it. She asked what does it cost, for example, in this alley he was talking about. Mr. Jennings said it would go from S 150,000 down to 53,000 or S4,000, but it's not the same product. Aid. Rainey stated that she has a lot of bad alleys in her ward. One that was horrible that was west of Asbury, they did the chip -mix and people were thrilled with it and asking her what they were going to be charged for it. For years they have needed an alternative to the S 150,000 alley. Mr. Jennings replied that they have done two alternatives and both of them are in that alley she referred to: the east -west legs are chip -mix and the north -south leg is hot mix. They have black -topping, where they strip the surface, use the existing alley base and roll a hot mix surface on top. Aid. Rainey said she thinks a good request for next year would be if he would come to them with a proposal for several of those alleys. It is such a good use of money — though it is not the same thing. But there are some alleys that don't need all the drainage. Mr. Jennings agreed. They would only choose alleys where it would not create a problem. If the natural drainage allows them to, they will do it. Aid. Bernstein asked if they put chip -mix on top of dirt, in those alleys. Mr. Jennings said it needs some type of base-, most of their dirt alleys have a compressed gravel or an asphalt base. Full depth dirt doesn't have enough bearing capacity, so garbage trucks would tear it up. It probably has 8" of compacted limestone or recycled asphalt or some other material that is crushed and compressed. Aid. Bernstein said he has 8" holes in some of his alleys. Mr. Wolinski then entered with the ordinance for 645 Custer. There were no conditions for alley paving. There was a voluntary agreement to donate $38,000 to the Mayor's Special I lousing fund. Mr. Jennings then presented the fourth program, the Alley Assessment Assistance program. The Public Works Department generally talks about this program every year, but don't always fund it because they've been drawing down the fund balance that they've had, for a few years. But they are out of money, so they arc asking for 590,000 for 2007. This is a cooperative effort between Public Works and the Community Development Department. They do the paperwork in terms of getting it to the people who could take advantage of it and the application for special assessment assistance is reviewed by the Community Development Department, ,�vhu determines who is eligible for the program. The program is to pay 100% of the assessment for people who meet the income guidelines. Aid. Rainey asked what the guidelines are. Mr. Jennings replied that they are 80% of the median income or less. Aid. Rainey clarified that if a petition is 1 Page 17 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November I, 2006 going around in your alley and you feel that you are income -eligible and it turns out your income is 80%, then you have no special assessment. Mr. Jennings confirmed. Aid. Jean - Baptiste asked what 80% is. fir. Morris Robinson, of the Planning Division of the Community Development Department interjected that is depends on the size of the family. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that according to information provided by Ms. Donna Spicuzza (Planning Division), median income is S72,000 for a family of four. Ms. Bobbie Newman of the Planning Division interjected that it is approximately S47,000 for a family of two. Aid. Rainey asked over what period of time, and how many people have qualified. Mr. Jennings replied that for the current year through July, 30 people have been approved at a total cost of S38,648. The average is S 1,174, the range is S541.00 to $3,067, in the past year. They have used S 155,000 in the last 3 years for this program. That is a little over S50,000 a year. They are asking for S90,000 because they look at the number of alleys that they have and they are doing nine alleys, currently, so there are more opportunities for people to get in the program. They publicize it at the public hearing, where they tell people to tell their neighbors. They get it in writing but it also helps to hear it by word of mouth. in the information that goes out to the abutters to the alley, so they know it is coming and when the project is finalized, and the bills go out, they put the current guidelines and an application in with the bills. So they try to keep people informed. Aid. Rainey asked if a person's circumstances changed after the first two bills, could they then apply for it. Mr. Jennings answered that he did not think so, because it is based on a snapshot of what your situation is at that time. Mr. Robinson added that there is a deadline and that they also ask for a copy of their last income tax return and other evidence to indicate that they meet the criteria. Ald. Rainey said that given the instability of employment, things could change. Aid. Jean -Baptiste reminded those who may be watching this that all of the aldermen can access the specialist from the Public Works Department to come and share with great specificity information about the program, so people should not hesitate to inquire. They can get all their questions answered. Aid. Rainey thanked Mr. Jennings for his presentation. Human Relations Deaartment. Citv of Evanston. Housini, Advncarl, and Summer Youth Emp1m,ment Ms. Paula Haynes began with the Housing Advocacy Program. The Human Relations Department's request for funding revolves around their housing ordinance as well as their residential landlord and tenant ordinance. 77he request includes salaries for full time staff person to deal with both of those issues and a third of the secretarial support staff. They deal with a wide variety of concerns with regards to the residential landlord tenant ordinance because it is broad based in its nature. They do not have the authority to enforce it or to issue violations and citations so they spend a lot of time working with people to correct the issues and to educate them as to their responsibilities relating to landlord/tenant matters. Unfortunately, we still live in a society where discrimination continues. It has mutated over the years because the world is changing. There are still issued that exist. They continue to test providers of housing, whether rental or purchase, to determine if discrimination is occurring, and the nature of the discrimination. They have been involved for the last year and a half in some testing to discern what the issues are in our community, that can not be disclosed until it is finished. She then asked if there Page 18 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 were any question. Aid. Rainey stated that she is very interested in the fire in Rogers Park where children died that was caused by candles being used because their electricity was turned off. The Council has discussed it at length and she asked where the issue is in their department right now. Ms. Haynes replied that she is not so sure that it is in her department because one of the issues they talked about, was the responsibility of who would determine whether or not the property was inhabitable, so it includes Property Standards because they are the agency that is able to go in and conduct an inspection and determine whether or not is habitable and they are the agency that issues the displaced tenant. Aid. Rainey said she tried to narrow down the issue. She said we know what to do when the landlord has not paid the bill: we go in and fine the landlord etc., but this was a case where the tenant hadn't paid the bill and was endangering the lives of everybody in the building and she wondered if we are making any progress. Ms. Haynes replied that staff met this morning and had discussed it. There is a team that is addressing relocation. As of this moment it is not finalized. it is still in discussion. They are to present the respective positions the departments have to Stan Janusz and then a decision will be made as to how it is going to be handled. There are those who are very concerned that we know what to do when the landlord fails to provide electricity. We relocate the tenants and hopefully some ordinance will be amended so we can go after the landlord for that cost, but right now that is not in ordinance form. It is more of a procedure. The administrative lawyers are asking what ordinance allows that to happen. At the PIan & Development meeting, he directed her to amend the ordinance so there wouldn't be a problem with seeking reimbursement from the landlord. Since her department is not responsible for the cost associated with the relocation, there is the discussion that that should not be part of the landlord tenant ordinance. That is one piece that was raised that night. However, if it is the tenant's responsibility and they do not pay the bill, often times that is not reported. If it is the landlord's responsibility they are calling them, but if they don't pay the bill themselves, they don't call. So one of the issues is, how do they find out? Sometimes they find out by accident but nonetheless, once they find out, the issue is, what do they do? There are those that believe that the property should be declared uninhabitable, and that the tenant should not be afforded assistance from the city because they neglected their responsibilities. They have in fact violated their lease rental agreement. The landlord is in a position to give them a 30-day correction notice to get it back on and if it is not back on within 30 days then the rental agreement is broken. At this point there has not been a definitive process put in place in terms of how those tenants are going to be dealt with because there are those who feel that we would be making these people homeless. Ald. Rainey stated that we do have a program where we can provide some assistance. We have the Emergency Assistance program where under certain circumstances we will help with the electric bill. But let's say it`s S700 or S800. We probably can't help with that. Ald. Rainey continued that she doesn't see how we can continue, once we know, and the issue was, in Chicago, many people knew: the social worker knew, the management knew, and nobody did anything. And those people would be alive today if the City of Chicago had said that the unit is uninhabitable. You cannot stay here without electricity. They would still be alive because they wouldn't have been allowed to light candles and set the building on fire. That is where her concern is. She said she understands that there is an issue of the obligation of what to do with these people, but when a tenant doesn't pay rent in Evanston and they get evicted and the Page 19 — Minutes CDBG Review Stecting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 Sheriff puts them out on the street, we don't feel any financial obligation to that tenant. And she sees not paying electric as a temporary thing, so she's very concerned that we haven't gotten a response and people do all sorts of weird things when they don't have the proper utilities. Ms. Haynes said they anticipate that they may see additional disconnections this winter because of the increase in the cost of electricity. Aid. Rainey said that once winter comes, they won't disconnect, but once winter comes, people who are currently disconnected do not have to be turned on. Ms. Haynes agreed that that is a frightening prospect. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that we need to bet more visioning about Aid. Rainey's concerns, Though we are in the debate phase. if we can track those who have come to get emergency assistance to pay their utilities over the last couple of months and find out what their current situations are that will give us a greater sense of comfort. We could heighten our vigilance at least in the short term and institute that as a measure as winter approaches to minimize the possibility of those kind of problems. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Haynes if her department makes referrals to emergency assistance on Main Street. Ms. Haynes stated that in these kind of cases they generally refer people to Connections for the Homeless or an agency such as that that provide funds for tenants to pay bills that are in arrears. She believes that Health and Human Services' Community Intervention team also sends their applications to Connections for the Homeless for them to act on it. Aid. Rainey said she thought they could go over to Main Street directly. She gets a list every month of how many people in their wards got utility assistance, Ms. Haynes said that Connections for the Homeless has a huge amount of money to provide to help people with their bills. They Also refer people to CEDA Neighbors at Work for that. Aid. Rainey asked her if she has any information to share about the progress of dealing with this, she doesn't want it to happen before it's too late. Mr. James Wolinski stated that he doesn't want the Committee to get the wrong impression about the team's discussions. Property Standards now considers a unit without electricity to be inhabitable. The issues that they are discussing primarily is how to deal with tenants that pay their own electric bills and should the city be reimbursing these folks and the answer is probably not but they haven't come up with an official policy statement on that yet. One of the issues they are dealing with is, at midnight on Christmas eve if someone doesn't have electricity and they call the police station and the police station calls the Property Standards inspector and says they have no electricity and they're lighting the place with candles, we're going to go out there and we're going to shut the unit down. The question is, is the City going to give any assistance to these folks if they are responsible for the electric bill and they have not paid it. Are we going to put them up or are we just going to close the unit up and say, 'Go find some assistance.' Aid. Rainey said she understood that we need to resolve it before we get to that point. But, we DO shut the units down, because we don't want another tragedy to happen like the one in Chicago. Aid. Rainey said the real answer here is for ComEd to let us know about these things and they never will. Aid. Jean -Baptiste added that Emergency Assistance ought to be one of the places that we refer these people, whether ultimately they do something about it that is their safety net we put in place. Aid. Rainey said that we do that, and there is money available for that. Ms. Paula Haynes then presented the request for funding for the support and supervisory personnel for particular components of the Summer Youth Employment Program, TYQr 1y . �II� . J Page 20 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 specifically, the community clean up team, video production, and special projects such as the survey that was done in the 5''' Ward this summer. Ms. Haynes went on to say that many of the Committee members know how critical supervisory staff is with regards to the success of the summer program and the role they play. It is important that they are able to hire qualified, capable individuals because they are doing more than just telling the kids to get that piece of paper. They are forming the foundation that is ultimately going to support the structure that is built by that young person as they grow and develop and become responsible adults in the work -a -day world. They are mentors with major responsibility. The program is going to expand their roles to evaluate the performance and attitudes of the youth. The funding is for 11 supervisors, in addition to a clean-up component generally has about 40 or 50 youth in it and they need a coordinator for that aspect of the program, and some administrative assistance, responsible for the administrative tasks, such as intake, collecting documents including making sure they are signed properly by their parents (a major undertaking), having the payroll, dealing with calls and requests from the public and other miscellaneous responsibilities. The Administrative assistant would work with the Coordinator. Ms. Haynes said that she has filled a vacancy in her office after almost four years this year. It is split between Housing and general Human Relations issues and the Summer Youth Program. Half of their time is going to be devoted to overseeing the Summer Youth Program. These two people will report directly to the Human Relations Specialist this summer and it will be overseen the way it should be. This past year they hired 107 youth, 83 of whom worked in the private sector through the "50-50 Program" or with Northwestern or Evanston Hospital, who did not participate in the "50-50 Program". There were about 190 youth hired. This year they have increased their request to $400,000 because they are requesting money for their year-round program and a couple of other things they'd like to do, and to expand the program. They are also looking at "T&T, ' Teens and Technology because one of the things they've learned in Ms. Haynes' encounters with the Chamber is that the businesses are willing to hire youth but they don't want to train them. They want them to come with the skills to perform in their businesses. They have 400-600 youth who show up for the job fair and only approximately 200 of them are employed. They are going to try to get some businesses to sponsor some youth this year and pay them a stipend, not a salary, and send them to Oakton College to get some computer training, or something of that sort, and to provide some shadowing over the summer for the youth to go to the business and teach them about what they do. Ms. Haynes hopes that they could get the businesses to agree to give the youth a computer if they successfully complete the training and make a commitment to hiring the youth the foliowing summer. But this request is specifically for support personnel. Aid. Rainey clarified that Ms. Haynes is asking the General Fund this year for S400,000. She asked if that is just for this specific program or for the Human Relations Department. Ms. 1 iaynes replied that it includes all the jobs whether they're 50-50, all the departments in the city, and it also includes the cost for a year round program for approximately 20 youths: 10 with the department and 10 with the private sector. They are planning on getting the private sector involved in the year round program. There were no further questions. Aid. Rainey thanked her for her presentation. i Page 21 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 Community Dcvelonment Detnartmcnt. City of Evanston - Graffiti Technician --' Graffiti Removal Proeranrs Ald. Rainey introduced Mr. James Wolinski, Director of the Community Development Department of the City of Evanston, who explained that the Community Development Administration supports at a rate of 50% the salaries and the line items of the Director of Community Development and the Executive Secretary. The Director is responsible for the overall super-ision of the CDBG Program, Home Funds and the Emergency Shelter Grant funds, as well as our Revolving Loan Fund Program and Housing Code Compliance Program. Nothing has changed in that they arc asking for S 108,500 this year for 50% of that program. Mr. Wolinski then gave presentations for the following programs' requests for CDBG funding: Mr. Wolinski stated that the committee has been wonderful in supporting; the I lousing Code Compliance, which is their Property Standards Enforcement program. CDBG funds support two Property Standards Inspectors at 1 00% of their salaries, and three other Inspectors at 30% of their salaries, and clerical staff at 30% of their salaries. Housing Code Compliance is the back bone of their inspection program for existing rental property. They inspect about 3500 units a year, with follow-up inspections and complaint inspections. fie pointed out that their long time Supervisor in Property Standards, Eugene Ward, retired a year ago, and the organization, fortunately, was able: to promote our Rehab Specialist, Jeff Murphy into that position and Jeff Murphy's position was eventually filled by one of their Property Standards Inspectors, Ted Partika. He believes this says a lot about the people they are hiring initially, and promoting through the organization. They are dedicated and of course they share the City's values. The problem with promoting from within is that you keep creating vacancies within your own organization. So while Property Standards was able to fill the Supervisor position with the former Rehab Specialist, Rehab suffered for about 6 months while that position was vacant. That is the reason their Rehab numbers are not where they would like; them to be, however they do have a specialist on duty now since August, and they expect to meet their objectives. The Housing Rehab Program handles all of their one and two family loan programs, their multi -family Ioan program, dangerous tree removal, garage demolitions, condominium rehab and self -exterior paint cases. Housing Rehab has been funded in the past for 3 positions at 100%, and they are requesting; that funding again for: the Assistant Director, Stan Janusz, the Rehab Specialist and a Secretary.']'his stall'also works with the First Time Home Buyers Program with the Evanston I lousing; Corporation. The graffiti position has been funded 50% by CDBG funds. T lie Graffiti Technician is also the city Sign Inspector, so he devotes about 50% of his time to each task, however he probably spends more time on graffiti, because of the need and the issue they have with graffiti to remove it within 24 hours after it is reported. They are still removing about 6 thousand tags a year with Karlton Mims, the Graffiti Technician. Also as part of Page 22 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 the Housing Codes Compliance Program, they have a contractual service with a graffiti removal contractor who uses a high pressure washer system to take care of the arras that Karlton cannot get to. They are either very massive on a wall or just too high up or too large to do by hand. Right now the Graffiti Removal Program is costing the city approximately S60,000 to S70,000 to fight that problem. He stated that he has expressed his opinion when he did his review of his city department in front of the Budget Policy Committee about their approach on graffiti. They do not consider it art. They consider it an offense, to be removed as quickly as possible. The CDBG Planning Administration Program, for which he is requesting funds, has also been funded in the past. Several Planning Department staff are funded, the CDBG Administration at 100%, and staff that lends support to the CDBG Administration, managing and assessing. The Neighborhood Planner who handles all of the low to moderate housing programs is funded at 100%, the General Planner at 50%, and some clerical staff, the Executive Secretary at 50%, the Assistant Director of Community Development in charge of Planning at 20%, and the Housing Planner, at 30%. Mr. Wolinski stated that he has been requesting the same funding for 17 years, and the need is still there. The applications still come in for the Low Interest ]-lousing Program. He said one of the great things the Council did over the past year was to raise the limits from S30,000 to S50,000. They are able to do much more for the home owners than in the past. Also increasing the per unit for multi -family to S20,000/unit, has helped them a great deal and they will be able to see the effects of that in the year-end report. Mr. Wolinski asked if there were any questions. Aid. Rainey asked how many property standard inspectors we have. Mr. Wolinski replied that they are budgeted for 5 plus a supervisor. The supervisor not only directs the staff but he does all the rooming house inspections. However, there has been one vacancy for about 5 months. Mr. Wolinski stated that he has frozen that position due to budget issues. If the City Manager asks his department to give up a position, that is the one he would give up because it is vacant and no-one would lose their job. "this position was added 2 years ago. Aid. Rainey asked if it was a CDBG funded position. Mr. Wolinski said yes, it is funded 30%. Aid. Rainey said she would like to see some justification other than you don't want to have to lire someone because it seems that if we are serious about the maintenance of decent and affordable housing, we have to be able to inspect, to make certain that all of our properties are up to code. She asked if he was saying that we no longer need that inspector, to which Mr. Wolinski replied, "Absolutely not. We need all of our inspectors. These are hard choices. All the Department Directors were asked by the City Manager to submit 3 positions to be eliminated, if necessary." Aid. Rainey said that she hopes the Council won't tolerate the elimination of an inspector, especially in wards where there is problematic housing. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how long we have had 6 inspectors. Mr. Wolinski said they added an inspector 2 years ago to focus around the Northwestern area, per Alderman \ewman's request to keep an eye on all the off - campus housing, and that inspector is on board and has been doing that for 2 years. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if, with the condo conversion going on, we have less housing units to inspect. Mr. Wolinski said that it has decreased. They used to have over 15,000 rental w�. Page 23 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 units in town. It is down to a little over 14,000. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked if we arc behind in inspections, in relation to the position that is frozen, or could we better spend the 30% of the vacant position. Mr. Wolinski said that it has been the policy of the department to inspect all the rental units in the CDBG target area (about 3,000 units) on about a two, to two and a half year schedule. The rest of the 10,000 plus units get inspected on about a four year cycle. The CDBG inspector is not the vacant position. They may be falling a little behind in non-CDBG target areas. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Wolinski to explain, for the benefit of Evanston citizens, why we have the Housing Rehab program and what people get for this allocation. Mr. Wolinski stated that we have a number of programs for low to moderate income Evanston residents and home owners to help them maintain their properties. The one and two family program is for families that are at or below 50% of the median, which affects many seniors, and the house is owner occupied, you can receive a title transfer Ioan of up to 550,000 with no interest. Not until the property is transferred or sold, the loan must be repaid. The program for 50% — 80% of median income provides a 0% loan that again is paid back with a monthly payment. Mr. Wolinski introduced Stan Janusz, Assistant Director of Housing and Rehab and Property Standards Departments. Mr. Janusz also explained about the two Rehab Program loans, stating, "There are 2 basic amortization programs. One is for households up to 80% of median income can qualify for a 0% interest loan for up to 550,000 with no points, fees or charges, which amortizes over 25 years. The second is for households less than 50% of median income you make no monthly payments, the entire loan is deferred until you sell the building or transfer title." Ald. Rainey asked for the number for a family of four at 80% of the median income. Mr. Janusz replied that it is 559,600, household of 4 50% is 537,700. Ald. Rainey asked for a family of 3, for which 80% of the median income is 553,650 and 50% is 533,950. Also, with the changes that the Council approved a little over a year ago, they were able to increase these amounts from 535,000 for I and 2 unit owner occupied up to $50,000. Condominiums were added about a year ago. A 520,000 loan can be obtained per unit. For demolitions of garages, a loan of 56,000, to remove damaged trees, a loan of S6,000, and to return abandoned buildings to inhabitable, a S50,000 loan can be obtained. For emergency assistance in terms of a boiler or roof, a loan for S 10,000 can be obtained. In Rehab they have one person doing the referrals, the financials, the contracting, the work list, the inspections, the payouts and the mortgages. Ald. Jean -Baptiste stated that the M/W/EBE Advisory Committee met with Stan to propose that Stan consider the M/%V/EBE Contractors for these type of rehab programs. So hopefully a year from now they can report that they have given work to a number of local contractors. Mr. Janusz said that they are trying to expand and improve their contract list. A big aspect of the contracting the last couple of years has been the lead -based paint aspect. A person must be lead licensed to do that work. Some of those contracted are not lead -licensed. The City gat a grant from Cook County four or five years ago to address the lead -based paint issue. I lealth and Human Services and Community Development worked together on preparing the grant proposal, they were successful in getting it. This past year they had about 5137,000 in lead grants in Cook County. Some households have gotten $12,000 a unit to take care of lead at no repayment. It is a great opportunity for the client to get grant funds, we take care of the lead, and it preserves the loan fund. Ald. Rainey asked if there was an income requirement for the lead grant. Mr. Janusz said ycs, it is 80% of the median. Ald. Rainey Page 24 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 said that rental buildings are getting that grant, and she asked how that works, Mr. Janusz said the main ones he is aware of are mostly I and 2 units and they were mostly rehab clients, although some were not. fie believes the ones who were rehab would have been under 80%, but there may be other criteria from the County. ald. Rainey asked when a building gets cited for code violation, whether we come in and share all of this information with people. Mr. Janusz confirmed that yes, and actually in all of their correspondence in Property Standards and every violation letter, if it is a typewritten letter prepared by their secretary, it contains information on all of their programs — not only Rehab, but Health and Human Services, Landlord Tenant Issues, and a whole range of issues. The prepared forms that the inspector checks off and posts to a door has the same information on the back, and they also give the cty's wcbsite cable TV station and radio station. '!here were no other questions. Aid. Rainey commended them on their programs and asked them to announce the Graffiti Hotline number, which will ensure the graffiti will be gone in 24 hours. She added that she believes a reward system for people who report graffiti would be very successful. The number is 847-866-2929. Communitv Develonment Denartment. Citv of Evanston - Adopt a Fanct, Can Program and Neitrlthorhood Storefront lmprovernzrnt Prournm Mr. Morris Robinson, City's Economic Development Planner, introduced himself and stated that he has taken over the Adopt a Fancy Can and the Neighborhood Fagade Improvement Programs, since the departure of the former CDBG Administrator. He stated that the Adopt a Fancy Can Program has been very successful. It is a contract between the city and a home owner in the targeted area that they will maintain a fancy can on their property or in the proximity of their property, for people in general, to put their trash in. Every bottle, can and piece of paper that finds its way into that trash can, is less trash on our streets. They must maintain these cans. They must remove the bags and put them out for collection on the specified date. For the 5 years this program has been in existence, they have put out 50 cans. He is asking for 55,000 for the next year, to provide 8 cans, liners, hard liners and a supply of plastic bags. The cans are well over $500 each including the bags and liners. He requested 8 more cans over the last year. Unfortunately the new requests were for a neighborhood that already has some, and the goal is to distribute them to more neighborhoods, so he now has 4.Of the cans that they have distributed, there have only been 7 returned in the past 5 years. The cans are very heavy, and someone may request one not knowing how heavy they are, and may be unable to maintain. The 7 that were returned were promptly re -distributed. One was returned from a neighborhood where a lot of dog owners were using her can to deposit their dogs' waste — a legitimate request. Mr. Robinson stated that he believes his request is a modest one. They plan to have the cans strategically placed in the most heavily used corners in the target areas. Mr. Robinson then presented his request for 525,000 for the Neighborhood Storefront Improvement Program, also referred to as the Fagadc Improvement Program. He explained that in the nine years that he has been with the City, he has been involved with every major economic development project that has come through. And they have been remarkably astute at coming up with innovative ways to help bridge gaps to get these Page 25 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 1, 2006 development projects going. They have done that with a degree of enthusiasm that the small business owners in the community/neighborhood business districts would like to see us exhibit_ This is one of the few tools we have to help the business owners in the neighborhoods to keep their properties acquiring an appeal that will give them a competitive edge. The FaVade Program helps in terms of replacing windows, adding awnings, even tuck pointing and maintenance issues that can be so important to the small entrepreneur. He believes this too is a modest request. They did have a fund carryover, but that amount may have been previously committed. They also have a strong initiative taking place in West Evanston. They have gone through some tremendous planning processes, created their latest Tax Increment Financing district in that area and they will need these funds to assist in the goals that they are setting for ourselves in that area. We have entrepreneurs there, neighborhood organizations that we feel will be able to use these funds in a very, very effective way. He believes that from the way he wrote up the request applications, and from any questions the Committee may have, that the Committee will be able to see the importance of these two relatively minor programs, compared to the dollar amounts requested from other areas. He asked if the Committee had any questions. Aid. Rainey agreed that it is a great program, and that it has been used all over the city. Mr. Robinson mentioned the building just west of the CTA tracks on Noyes Street as an example of a beautiful building, whose copper details were beautifully restored through the program. He stated that the money is well -spent and another advantage is that it makes him and other city employees feel good to know that there are entrepreneurs out there who think we care about them and haven't forgotten them. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if Mr. Robinson could help with the Korean Soul Food Restaurant to get renovated Mr. Robinson said he will take it upon himself to make an outreach visit to the Korean restaurant. Aid. Rainey thanked Mr. Robinson for his hard work. A discussion ensued about the categories of the funding. Administration has a cap of 20% of the amount of the City's total CDBG funding. Public Service can only be funded 15%. We have the most applicants in the Public Service category, as we are the last resort for most of those agencies. Adopt a Fancy Can should possibly be under Housing or Public Improvement. III. STAFF/CITIZEN COM1iENT: Citizen Mary Friedle informed the Committee that the Blue Heron Theater is in the building that houses Family Focus. The theater portion is not wheelchair -accessible, yet the Blue Heron states that it is. The Committee discussed talking to a HUD representative about this issue. IV. ADJOUR-N.%iENT The meeting adjourned at 10:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman Exec. Secretary, Planning Division APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Wednesday, November 15, 2006 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — City Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Coleen Burrus Aid. Anjana Hansen, Crawford Richmond, Da%rid Schoenfeld PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Ann Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Bobbie Newman I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUfI There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m. Aid. Rainey stated that this meeting follows review of the proposals of all who are requesting funds for the 2007-2008 fiscal year and at which funding recommendations of the Committee are made. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 17, OCTOBER 24 and NOVEMBER 1, 2006 MEETINGS Minutes were approved. Aid. Rainey commended Sarah Flax, the new CDBG Administrator on an amazing job at a difficult time of the year. III. 2007108 CDBG PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING Aid. Rainey began the meeting by requesting an update from Sarah Flax regarding HUD's position regarding the use of CDBG funds for organizations alleged to not be in ADA compliance. Ms. Flax stated that various staff members and the legal department have been in contact with HUD and reviewed legal documents regarding whether CDBG funds can be allocated in instances %%,here ADA compliance is in question. No definitive ruling has been provided by HUD, but there does not appear to be a complete prohibition on funding non-ADA compliant organizations. It was recommended that the Committee base its funding recommendations on the merits of the proposals pending a final ruling from HUD. Aid. Rainey added that at the same time we would certainly encourage all public facilities to do everything humanly possible to be accessible. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked if there is a distinction bem-een the Blue Heron Theater and the rest of the building. Ms. Flax responded that there are questions regarding the definition of terms used by HUD, including when ADA compliance constitutes "undue burden" on an organization and what timeframe is considered appropriate for making changes to an existing building. HUD requirements for compliance are more stringent when work on a facility is significant and qualifics as renovation to enable different use of the space. In addition, Page 2 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 part of a building being out of compliance does not necessarily mean that CDBG funding should be denied for building improvements or programs taking place in the building. Aid. Rainey stated that, as they do not have any citizen, organization or agency comments, they begin immediately with their recommendations. She then stated "The Chair will entertain any motions." Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to allocate for the Administration and Planning Division for the CDBG Administration ("CD")- S300,000; for Housing Advocacy: S75,000 and for the MBE/WBE/EBE ("MB") Program: $70,134. Aid. Rainey asked for comments. Ms. Butrus stated that the amount for the MBE may be a little high considering the discussion during the public period about their concerns about the MBE. She asked if anyone else had issues about that. Aid. Jean -Baptiste responded that some of the comments that he was making were that he didn't feel the Committee was funded well enough to accomplish their objectives. Currently it is doing primarily compliance, but there is an issue of assessing needs of local businesses and a need to do some mentoring of general contractors with other local contractors who may need capacity building, and there is also an employment component. Part of their discussion was that 1., there was no secretary or assistance and 2., all of those objectives could not be carried out without some intervention on the part of City Council to pass some sort of ordinance that insists on enforcement of the employment component. So the intent was to tell the Committee that we need to put more money in, in order to enhance that capacity. Aid. Rainey then argued to reduce by a small amount the MBE allocation that Aid. Jean -Baptiste had just recommended and increase the CDBG Administration. She stated that the general fund is not going to fund a penny to CDBG Administration. That includes the Housing Planner and all sorts of CD- related jobs, however we are reducing it below the $305,000 they received last year. She believes that the City of Evanston, with its penchant for diversity and inclusion, needs to step up to the plate on the MBE WBE/EBE category in the general fund budget. Also, any work done by the employees in this department in a TIF district ought to be reimbursed to some extent the way we reimburse Judy Aiello and some of the zoning people out of the TIFs. She believes there is money "all over the place" in various categories to help fund Lloyd Shepard's organization but there is not for CD, so she believes we ought to, if nothing else, fund it at S307,000, and at least give them the increment for cost of living. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he would accept that as a friendly amendment. Aid. Rainey said if the Aldermen on the Committee would agree to advocate strongly when budget deliberations begin to make certain that MBE is funded fully. Aid. Jean Baptiste then confirmed that Aid. Rainey suggested S310,000 for CD. Mr. Schoenberg agreed that if there is no other funding for CD, we ought to go to at least S310,000 for CD. Aid. Jean -Baptiste then requested that the funds for MBE be funded at the: same amount of last year, which is S61,800. Mr. Schoenberg suggested that they fund S310,000 for CDBG, S73,320 for Housing Advocacy and S61,814. for MBE. The Committee voted unanimously to approve this amended motion by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. PUBLIC SERVICES Aid. Rainey moved to fund, under Public Services, the following allocations: Blue Heron Theatre: SO; Carepoint: SO; Evanston Community Defender: S50,000; Fresh Start/First Base: SO; Girl Scouts/Fit to Be Me: S5,000; Employment Counseling and Hospitality Page 3 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 Center Interface: SO; Interfaith Housing Center Homesharing Program: S 15,000; Interfaith Housing Foreclosure Prevention: Leave blank, waiting for more information; Legal Assistance Foundation: 59,000; Meals At Home: $8,500; Taking Music to Seniors: 52,000; Skokie Valley Senior Services: 524,000; Open Studio Project: 53,500; Shorefront: SI0,000; World Relief DuPage: SO; YAM (Youth Action Ministry), College Retreat: $12,000; Youth Job Center of Evanston: S59,880; Evanston YWCA: 530,000; Entry Point: SO; Informed Citizen Project: SO; Graffiti Technician: 529,000; Adopt a Fancy Can: 55,000; Human Relations Summer Youth Employment Program: 552,000; Senior Crime Prevention: S 15,000. Aid. Rainey asked if anyone from Interfaith Homesharing Program was present. No-one from the organization was present, so she asked if anyone remembered how much less than their requested amount they had said they would accept, since they had received a large grant from another organization. Ms. Flax said they did not give a specific amount. Aid. Rainey then suggested, since the service is important, that they fund the Interfaith Housing Center's Foreclosure Prevention Program at 52,000. She then stated that she would add 52,000 to Fresh Start/First Base. That total reached the cap minus 529. The motion was seconded. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to make the modification to give Carepoint 510,000 because he believes they are doing work with a population that needs attention and they have experience dealing with ex -offenders and other young adults and adults who need job services and drug counseling, etc. For the Fresh Start Program he would raise it to 54,000, the same as was allocated last year, because that general population does not have a lot of people offering support or assistance. Aid. Rainey asked Aid. Jean -Baptiste if he received a letter from Carepoint regarding the denials they have had from various Chicago funding agencies. He stated that he had, and Aid. Rainey said she is concerned that they don't have enough information about the quality or the work or the service that's being delivered. That is why she left it blank. She wondered if the Mental Health Board is going to make any allocations, because they usually delve into the details of the quality of services. Aid. Jean -Baptiste agreed and added that what we've done historically on the Committee is look at the track record and the concept to see whether it is reaching a population that otherwise does not get funding from other sources. He continued that Taking Music to Seniors is a great service, but in terms of the priority of allocation and the limited amount of funds, he proposed to fund them at S0. Aid. Rainey responded that one of the things we do is provide money for all kinds of services that treat problems like homelessness, people who can't read, and people who are hungry. "It seems that this is one of those joyful things that can be provided to people that would otherwise not be provided. There is more to social service than treating ills. There is also a need for culture and music and drama and art and this is one very small amount of money 52,000 out of over 52,000.000 and so many seniors benefit from it and they had said it was too bad they couldn't bring it to more people, but they are a not -for -profit too," so she said, she would plead with Aid. Jean -Baptiste to leave this in. it provided so much positive experience to so many seniors, and they take it to the seniors. They don't set up and say "Come on in and you can listen to the music." They actually took it to them. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he agrees with her that it is a great service. He said he is just looking at the overall allocation and what we have and how we have to deny certain people, so he proposed to split the difference and do 51,000 because there are probably some similar services provided already at the homes. Aid. Rainey disagreed with Aid. Page 4 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 Jean -Baptiste that music is provided at the homes. Aid. Hansen suggested funding at the same level as last year. Aid. Rainey agreed that they could do that but not to take any away from them, because they told us "we can only do this, this and this:'. Aid. Jean - Baptiste then agreed to fund them at the level they were funded last year would be a good compromise, and that is about $1,500. Ald. Rainey agreed with that compromise. Aid. Jean -Baptiste then moved that for the YWCA Domestic Violence Services, for which Aid. Rainey had proposed S30,000, he suggested increasing that to S38,000, or as a compromise increase it to $35,000 and make an adjustment later, if necessary. He then stated that regarding Blue Heron Theatre, even though his original proposal was reflective of the lack of information they initially had regarding ADA compliance, that too is a great initiative that has been discontinued in the community and a few years back they had said they would allocate more funding to even expand Fleetwood Jourdain Theater but they had a conflict in terms of unclear issues around the ownership of the land and they couldn't go forward, He said this is the second year that they've approached the Committee and they've been enthusiastic in trying to see what they can do, so they've asked for $45,000 which they definitely cannot fund because they just do not have that, but he would like to at least put S5,000 on the table for consideration so they do not "zero them out" altogether and see whether they can stretch and get some encouragement to them. They are reaching out to put theater back in a community that had it before. He said he would like to see the Committee advocate for that as much as possible. Aid. Rainey said she loves the people that are involved in it, but the issue with that is that they have to be able to do a program with the money they are given. She does not want people get money for one thing and then do something else with it, because for years, they would allocate money for an elevator, for instance, and then the recipient can't do an elevator with the money so they do something else with it, or they had money left over for the project the Committee gave them so they would do something else with it. So if they can allocate S5,000 to Blue Heron and they can do something with it, tine. Aid. Jean -Baptiste replied that they did one performance last year, and this year they are asking for money to maintain a location for the theater, but he suggested asking them whether they intend to obtain the objective of bringing that form of art back to the community. Aid. Hansen confirmed that Blue Heron did ask for money last year and they acted upon getting a play and a forum but her issue is, "What is their proposal?" Their last play was at Family Focus and they will probably stay housed there in the next year and her issue with that is the ADA accessibility. She said, "If we're going to make this program available for everyone in the community, we can't. You're excluding people with disabilities, regardless ofwhether they want to be in the play, help out with the play backstage, or watching the play, they can't do it. In teens of the whale package you're excluding a whole segment of people from either participating or observing or enjoying and she is not willing; to allocate money to a program that is exclusionary because of where its proposal is going to house the play." Aid. Bernstein pointed out that at that point they were S21,000 over the allocation budget. Ile disagreed with Aid. Hansen that Blue Heron is excluding anyone by putting on a play. They are not responsible for the accessibility of the facility. They are simply renters there, and lie doesn't know if we would benefit anybody by denying them funding simply because they don't have a facility where there's perfect access. Eventually there needs to be access, but its not there today and he doesn't think we ought to punish Blue Heron on that count. He said he Page 5 — Minutcs CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 thought the better argument against them is the fact that he doesn't think 55,000 does that much and that is a real problem. Aid. Rainey agreed that 55,000 may not be enough to help ilium. Aid. Jean -Baptiste agreed with Mr. Schoenfeld, saying that the qualifier is that they do have a lift but it can not carry electric wheelchairs but it can transport a regular wheelchair, and there is a phased program to try to become accessible. The group has demonstrated that it is willing to dip in to its own pocket to take the initiative to do something that is part of our objective to protect the arts in Evanston. In that community that particular theater that was a center of lot of activity has been sort of shut down. The children's theater and various other activities were there. Aid. Jean -Baptiste continued, "If theater is being brought back, let us see how we can assist. I would not make the judgment that 55,000 equals zero to a group that is struggling in bringing that forth and doing it on its own initiative. When we look at the numbers ultimately, we may not be able to allocate that much, but we should take a stand in support of that and see how the numbers fall out." Mr. Schoenfeld agreed, mentioning that the Committee had discussed moving the Adopt a Fancy Can Program out of the Public Service category. AId. Rainey agreed that "there is nothing public service about a garbage can." Ms. Flax offered that according to HUD, it is not a permanent enough physical improvement that HUD will put it in the Public Improvements category, like curbs or gutters or alleys. A representative of HUD has said that if we have a Neighborhood Revitalization category we may be able to move it into it, but not as a stand-alone program. Aid. Rainey requested that the Committee have a HUD representative come to one of the next Committee meetings to address several items. She stated that they would leave 55,000 in Blue Heron. Aid. Rainey asked what we need to reduce the total allotments, to which Aid. Hansen replied 521,525. HOUSING Aid. Rainey moved, in the Housing category to allocate to Minor Painting, Repairs and Assistance Program: S 150,000; Housing Code Compliance: 5300,000; Community Development Dept. Administration: 5108,500; Housing Rehabilitation: 5150,000; Adaptive Service for Accessibility: 510,000; Handyman: 512,000; and Program Incomefne Revolving Loan Fund: $200,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey asked if there was any discussion. Mr. Schoenfeld suggested moving on and coming back to everything. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS In Public Improvements, Aid. Hansen moved to allocate to: Custer Improvement Program: 55,000: Accessible Ramp Program: 550,000; Perry Park Renovation: $100,000; Alley Paving: 5100,000: Block Curb and Sidewalk Program: 575,000; and for the Alley Assessment Assistance: S45.000. Mr. Schoenfeld asked if Aid. Hansen would accept an amendment to increase the Accessible Ramp Program to 575,000, saying it is a critically important program which CDBG funds consistently and he'd like to keep it up this year. Aid. Rainey asked fir. Burke of Public Works to speak to the Committee about the program. Mr. Burke stated that he was there because David Jennings couldn't be there. He stated that regarding the Alley Paving Program, they do have one alley that they had in mind that they have assessed at $150,000 to pave. That is the only project they have identified for the program this year. Aid. Rainey said that regarding the Accessible Ramp Page 6 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 Program, with the S50,000 last year, she saw a lot of ramps done. Mr. Burke said they did over 50 ramps this year, but they do receive outer funding for that outside of CDBG. Aid. Rainey asked if they could do just as many with S50,000 this year. Mr. Burke replied that they could, but it would require them to seek other funding. Aid. Rainey said that it is a city-wide program having nothing to do with target areas. Mr. Burke said they do try to use that funding in the target area, although it has been used in other areas. Aid. Rainey suggested that the City could fund the program $50.000 also. Mr. Schoenfeld said he would withdraw his request for more funds for that program if the Aldermen present had an influence on how much the city would contribute to the Accessible Ramp Program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested to Aid. Hansen to increase the allocation to the Perry Park Renovation because he just learned that there is a matching grant of S200,000 they are waiting on. That would allow the Perry Pars: Renovation to maximize the outside grant. He would like to give the Perry Park Renovation the entire S200,000 they need, but he was sure they did not have enough funds to do that. Aid. Rainey said to deplete the CD fund for Public Parks in the amount of S200.000 for a single park, it seems that there should be some city matching funds. Mr. Burke told them the Pent' Park Renovation Program is a S600,000 program. They have S200,000 from the state, S200,000 from the City, and they are requesting S200,000 from the CDBG fund. Aid. Rainey asked if the S200,000 is not dependent on a S200,000 grant from CDBG. Mr. Burke said it depends on a match of 5200,000. Aid. Rainey said the City has already given the $200,000 they need for the match. She said a SS00,000 park program could wait a year for the last $100,000. It takes a few years to finish a park. Aid. Jean -Baptiste withdrew his request for more funds for the Perry Park Program. There was no further discussion so Aid. Rainey asked for a motion to accept the Public Improvements motion, Aid. Hansen moved to accept the proposed allocation of S 100,000 for Public Improvements. Aid. Rainey asked for a motion for Public Facilities for recommending allocations. Ms. Burrus moved to allocate to: Childcare Center: S 18,500; Evanston West Side Citizens: SO; Family Focus: S 15,000; YMCA Elevator. S35,000; YWCA Domestic Violence Services: S 16,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion, Ms. Burrus said they had issues with West Side Citizens' allocations prey iously regarding their budget and what is happening there, so she wanted to discuss that with the Committee since they had given them money previously. Mr. Schoenfeld agreed that they have put a huge amount into the West Side Citizens' Council over the years, relative to what they've allocated for other things. He said he understands that there is a museum opening in January, at which time they will be able to see what they've actually funded and what has been accomplished with the many hundreds of thousands of dollars. if there has been real progress, then next year take a look and pick up the thread again. Mr. Richmond suggested in regards to Family Focus that they at least fund them at the level they did last year because it is his understanding that it is, the second part of a two phase project that they are involved in and for them to get the project finished they at least need to be funded at that level. Aid. Rainey argued to fund Family Focus at S30,000 because she believes on these major capital projects that CDBG should not be the only game in town. And that would leave them with S10,600 to raise and that is healthy. Maybe someone else will help them out. Ms. Burrus accepted the motion of S30,000 for Family Focus. Aid. Jcan-Baptiste said he supported the increase in the Family Focus allocation and the African American Museum Page 7 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 sponsored by the West Side Citizens' Council. lie agreed that they have had some difficulties and that over the last year or so they've changed direction and that with the Committee and the City Council have begun to push collectively to push the process forward to the point where in January there rill be an opening. The question is whether once they have achieved the opening, we are through. He said he understands Mr. Schoenfeld's view that in a year the Committee could re-evaluate to see if there is anything at all to do next year. But he believes unless they have an allocation for the year 2007 they will not be able to set the museum in motion. They will open it, but once it is open, they still need some kind of support to make sure that whatever program they have going on will take place. While the Committee does not have the money to support a S420,000 allocation, he would propose to allocate S40,000 to the museum. Last year they granted S50,000. It is being reduced from last year and from the previous years, but he doesn't think they should drop it, because it is their project that they've been supporting. He said this "with the caveat that once they go back to the allocations, they may have to reduce people significantly, and that allocation may have to be reduced." He said that the message cannot be "We're through —go ahead and swim on your own." Ald. Rainey agreed with Aid. Jean -Baptiste that we would go back and look at it later, but the other Committee members do not support that degree of funding. While she believes there should be some funding to at least clean up what they've got going right now, or at least figure out what they are going to be doing going forward, she could not support S40,000. Ms. Burrus said she thinks they need to set a precedent not to let people just go out on their own, but that if the City's giving money, the people that they're giving it to need to be fiscally responsible and she doesn't think the Museum group has demonstrated that they are fiscally responsible, and that at one meeting, a member of the group was actually hostile to one of the Alderpeople and she doesn't think it should be encouraged by funding a group like that. Aid. Bernstein agreed with Ms. Burrus. He continued that he's been very frustrated because what started out as a very positive project has gotten very negative in his mind. "There is a resistance every time the Committee tries to get some information consistent with what they get from everybody else, it seems they are putting some restrictions on them," said Ald. Bernstein. lie can not recall a program where they have had to dispatch a senior member of staff to do an analysis. And he said he would go S10,000, mindful of the fact that they gave them the building for S 1.00 and they had high expectations. He has not been very happy with the response. The last time Mamie Smith was there she actually gave him some encouragement, but the fact that the request is for $420,000 is indicative that there is really not a serious sense of what is going on. That is an outrageous amount of money and he does not want to just give people carte blanche without them coming in and showing that there is a progression. lie said, "Let's hope that they can open in January, as we've been told. We've already funded a great deal, S 10,000 might help them. They've already talked about things they already have for the museum. I don't think they need additional funding for that. I would not give the S40,000 because I believe there is some resistance there that we have to overcome and it's not like a parent spanking a child, but it's something that should have been further along than it has been. I'm not sure why it hasn't been moving along, but 1 don't think it's been this Committee or the City of Evanston, because I think we've done everything to facilitate it." Mr. Schoenfeld added that he has a serious concern about starting to fund operating expenses. To this point they've been funding capital investment to bet the building ready. If they Page 8 -- Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 start to fund operating expenses on an annual basis, they are going to build a floor under the expectation in each successive year and then when they move to the next phase of the expenditure, they will be working up from that floor and that tends to ratchet the thing up on a permanent basis. Aid. Rainey reminded the Committee that the latest information they have is another surprise which is an addition on to the building, which she had never heard about before, but with a new administrator in CDBG and a little thinking money, it might produce something very positive. So she does not believe anyone is going to accept the S40,000 allocation of Aid. Jean Baptiste's proposal. The Committee decided to allocate S 10,000 to the African American Museum. The allocations for the Public Facilities category stood at: Childcare Center Preschool Program: $18,500; Evanston West Side Citizens Restoration of 1817 Church Street: S 10,000; Family Focus: S30,000; YMCA Elevator Rehabilitation: $35,000. YWCA Domestic Violence Services: S16,000. The total allocated for Public Facilities was S109,500. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the Public Facilities allocations. For the Economic Development category, Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to allocate to: Villages of the World: SO; WiFi and Microbusiness Development have withdrawn; Neighborhood Fagade Program: S15,000; Evanston Community Development Corporation: S60,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that the Neighborhood FaVade Program is a good program but he believes that business groups have been able to approach the Economic Development Committee and sometimes set additional funds, so there may be other sources of funding available for the fagade program. Therefore he believes S 15,000 will be able to meet their needs. The ECDC asked for $85,000. It has played a role on the west side of town at Church and Dodge in particular, working closely with the affordable housing agencies that have developed housing in that community, helped identify first- time home buyers, screened candidates, and has begun the process of identifying affordable housing in that part of town and the need that some of the community members may have to make sure that they preserve afTordability in that part of town. Secondly, they've worked closely with some of the local developers, for example for the Hines project, to help with workforce development in trying to get people to work on those projects. Today he went to a groundbreaking for the [lines Development project and already there are some people employed who are minority contractors, and some young people. The ECDC as well, has gathered together a number of activists throughout the City and it goes across racial and class lines. First Trust and Bank is part of this initiative, the High School, and District 65. Chief Logan was the Chair for a while. There are a number of people that have kept moving together to keep the fuel burning around the issue of re -development of that part of town. Also, one of their missions is to try to support business development in that part of town. They also have a strong history that was discontinued for a while but resurrected recently by the re -incorporation of this group. It was an organization that was funded by the City historically, that had done a lot of work in the area of housing development and this group has now maintained and heightened that tradition, working very closely with people on the ground, with developers, with funding sources and with the City to try to make sure that we have a healthy community in that part of town. So he believes the S60,000 would be a fair allocation in light of their request for $85,000. Aid. Rainey added that she has been extremely impressed with ECDC, however when you compare them to the old ECDC, Page 9 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 she does not agree. She said the old ECDC was a disastrous organization. She worked with them. These people are much smarter. It also reminds her of the Church Street building because that is where they had their headquarters. She said she would go along with the 560,000, but one of the things that she sees about this organization is she sees it as one of the most exciting organizations that has come along in a long time. She is very concerned that they are going to become dependent on CDBG and she wants to send a message that this cannot happen. They have to get support from the big funding sources that are out there, and maybe even directly from HUD. They can not just be dependent on this very small pot of money over tim:. Ald. Rainey said regarding the Neighborhood FaVade Program, the west side is Bening more attention than any neighborhood she has ever seen and it justly deserves it. She said the leadership of the Alderman of the west side neighborhood and Alderman Holmes' leadership demands it. If they don't fund it, the other neighborhoods such as Howard Street and some of the smaller ones are going to suffer because you have some of the large developers compared to the smaller ones going in on the south end of town going after that money to the tune of 540,000 because they have multiple enormous storefronts. She said she knows several people in the south end of town who are interested in this program and its going to be useless at the amount being suggested, so she would like to go S50,000 ECDC and provide some additional money for Neighborhood Facade Improvement because the way the place looks is just so important. This program has been a boom to many small businesses. Ald. Jean -Baptiste suggested allocating 520,000 for the FaVade Program and leave ECDC at 555,000. Aid. Rainey said she would even agree to leave the allocation to ECDC at 560,000 and that $25,000 for storefront is very small. That is only two storefronts. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested leaving ECDC at 560,000. Hearing no major objections, the Committee voted unanimously to temporarily accept the motion to allocate $60,000 to ECDC. Aid. Bernstein asked for a reading of the amounts so far absent the cap for Public Services. Ms. Flax responded that at that point they were $66,239 over the cap. Ms. Flax read the allocations in the Administration/Planning category: CDBG Administration: 5310,000; Housing Advocacy: 573,320; MBE/WBE/EBE: $61,814; totaling 5445,134, which meets the cap for that category. The Committee voted to unanimously accept the recommendation of the Administration/Planning category. Ms. Flax read the allocations in the Public Services Category: Blue Heron Theatre: $5,000; Carepoint for Community Unity One: 510,000; Evanston Community Defender's Office 550,000; Fresh Start/First Base: S4,000; Girl Scouts/Fit to Be Me: S5,000; Interfaith Action of Evanston/Employment Counseling and Hospitality Center: SO; Interfaith Ilousing Center/1-lomesharing Program: 515,000. Interfaith Housing/ Foreclosure Prevention: 52,000; Lcgai Assistance Foundation/Evanston Legal Services: 59,000; Meals at Home: 58,500. Music Institutefl'aking Music to Seniors: 51,496; North Shore Senior Center/Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services: 524.000. Open Studio ProjecdArt and Action Program for At Risk Youth: 53,500: Shorefront Legacy Project: 510,000; World Relief DuPage/Evanston Immigrant Legal Services: SO; Youth Action Ministry/Annual College Retreat: 512,000;Youth Job Center of Evanston/Youth Employment Services: 559,880; YMCA Domestic Violence Services: 535,000; Entry Page 10 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 Point/Connections for the Homeless: SO; Informed Citizens Project: S0; Graffiti Technician and Graffiti Removal Program: 529,000; Adopt a Fancy Can: 55,000; Summer Youth Employment Program: 552,000; Senior Crime Prevention Program: S 15,000, totaling 5355,376, which put it 521,525 over the cap. Ms. Flax read the allocations in the Housing Category: CEDA/Minor Repairs(Painting Assistance Program; $150,000; Housing Code Compliance: 5300,000; Community Development Department Administration: 5108,500; Housing Rehabilitation: S150,000; Adaptive Devices for Accessibility: 510,000; Handyman Services: 512,000; Program Income Revolving Loan Program: 5200,000, totaling 5930,500. Ms. Flax read the allocations in the Public Improvements category: South Evanston Neighbors/Custer Street Improvement Program: 55,000; Accessible Ramp Program: $50,000; Perry Park Renovation: 5100,000; Alley Paving: 5100,000; Block Curb and Sidewalk Program: 575,000; Alley Assessment Assistance: 545,000, totaling 5375,000. Ms. Flax read the allocations in the Public Facilities category: Childcare Center/ Preschool Program: 518,500; Evanston West Side Citizens/Rcstoration of 1817 Church Street: 510,000; Weissbourd Holmes/Family Focus Center: $30,000; YMCA Elevator Rehabilitation: $35,000; YWCA Domestic Violence Services: $16,000, totaling S 109,500. Ms. Flax read the allocations in the Economic Development category: Villages of the World: $0; Neighborhood Fagade Improvement Program:S25,000, totaling 525,000, Ms. Flax read the Community -Based Development Organization category: Evanston Community Development Corporation: 560,000. At this point the total was 566,239 over the cap, of the 52,234,271 available. Aid. Rainey asked that the Committee discuss the Public Services category because they have to cut 521,525 of that category's allocations. She said that based on the HUD formula, they are restricted to only expend 15% of the total grant, which is 5333,851 to Public Service organizations. The total requests in that category totaled 5621,660. Mr. Schoenfeld moved to reduce the Carepoint/Community Unity grant from 510,000 to S5,000. He agreed with the suggestion of betting something on their success, but given the lack of a track record with them and the fact that they need to cut money, he suggested reducing the bet. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. 'The Committee voted unanimously to reduce Carepoint to 55,000. h1r. Schoenfeld suggested that the Interfaith Housing/Foreclosure Prevention Program be cut S2,000, to zero, since they have other funding, and the Committee is allocating S 15,000 to the Homesharing Program. Aid. Rainey commented that this is one of the smartest agencies and that they use every penny they get, and she has great hopes for the other very large grant they were awarded, and the fact that they got it is a gold star. She would like to show them that the Committee cares for the program, but at least they are increasing the grant for the Homesharing Program, and hopefully they'll know that the Committee has a lot of respect for them. Page 11 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 The Committee voted unanimously to reduce the Interfaith Foreclosure Program to SO. At S14,000 short, Aid. Rainey moved to reduce Fresh Start to $3,000 from S4,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if there is a way to generate some funds from sources other than CDBG for funding far them, possibly though the Mental Health Board. Aid. Bernstein suggested funding them at last year's rate, which is approximately S4,000, as he is not aware of any other place they can find money for them and they always talk about whether it pays to fund a small amount that is not going to accomplish a big thing. This particular program does unbelievable things with the small dollars they get. He has seen it in action for years and he would say that S4,000 is the minimum they should give them. He does not think their grant should be reduced. They well fund a population of the community and it is a good insurance policy. The motion to reduce Fresh Start's allocation to 53,000 was denied, with only one in favor. Aid. Jean - Baptiste moved to reduce the Homesharing Program back to what they had last year, which was approximately S 12,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded that motion. Aid. Rainey argued against that, given that this program, after talking about affordable housing for three years, for pennies, creates housing for exactly those people that the City could not even help with their affordable inclusionary housing program. So she said she believes it is absolute folly to tinker with this program. She continued that they just decided to take away the Foreclosure Program money because they had gotten the other grant (other than CDBG). They submit impeccable quarterly reports showing that they have placed people in housing. They not only help the person who has no housing, they help the person who shares their house because it makes housing affordable for two separate units: the person seeking and the person offering. They don't go around placing people in big fancy houses of wealthy people. They place people in housing where the people who have the housing are ha%zng problems maintaining it. So, Aid. Rainey continued, she would encourage the Committee to defeat this motion soundly, and give them a small increase. Aid. Jean - Baptiste suggested a compromise, because they did make due with about S 12,000 last year and he agrees that the Homesharing Program is a very unique program that allows people who cannot pay the going rent to be able to get a room in someone's home and they provide companionship as well by doing so. But he disagrees on the allocation only because of the fact that they can not afford it. He suggested funding them at S 13,000, reducing the allocation of $15,000 by S2,000. Aid. Rainey argued that they are asking for S22,000, they always ask for more than they are given. Since they gave them $11,000 last year, they're asking for S22,000, she believes that S 15,000 is the compromise. The people who do this job, if you recall their application, are not working at $50,000 a year, like people at the City are. The average City employee, with benefits, makes about 570,000 a year. These people are making S20.000 a year, so to keep chipping away at that eventually chips away at the program. She continued, it may sound like she has a stake in the program. She does not, she just thinks it is an amazing program. It's not that the home -seeker provides companionship for the home -offerer, it's that the home -offerer cannot afford to maintain their home without the added income from the home -seeker, so it's a balancing program helping both sides. And people in the community are offering their homes for people to share. If you're getting S400 extra a month, it help with your taxes and your utilities and your heat bill so she said that S 15,000 is such a drop in the bucket for a program such as this, that it is money very well spent and she would ask the rest of the Committee to support that. Mr. Schoenfeld then said that having been the one Page 12 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 who advocated reducing them last time, part of his rationale for doing that was the S15,000 that is there. He does not want to penalize them for their success in obtaining that other grant, but he would like to took elsewhere first before reducing this amount. If they absolutely have to, then they do, but he would like to leave it until the end. Aid. Bernstein supports moving on and coming back to the Homesharing Program allocation. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested voting on the Homesharing Program and Aid. Rainey agreed, so the Committee voted on Aid. Jean-Baptiste's proposal to reduce the Homesharing Program's allocation to S13,000. The Committee voted to deny the reduction, and to allocate S15,000 to the Homesharing Program. Ald. Bernstein moved to reduce the allocation to Summer Youth Employment Program from S52,000 to S47,000, arguing that they funded them last year at S42,000; S52,000 would be a S 10,000 increase. He would like to see them have it because he thinks they have made wonderful strides, but he believes they are also in a posture where they can get matching funds from employers, and that is the way he would like to see the program go. So he is proposing reducing their allocation by S5,000. The Committee voted unanimously to reduce the Summer Youth Employment Program to S47,000. That brought the amount over the cap to S9,525. Ms. Bumts moved to reduce the amount for Blue Heron Theatre to S2,500. She said it is more in line with the Music Institute of Chicago, where they arc going out and bringing music to seniors and it is accessible to everyone, where Blue Heron, why are they giving them so much more money than the Music Institute? The Committee voted unanimously to reduce the allocation to Blue Heron Theatre to S2,500. Aid. Bernstein moved to fund Girl Scouts/Fit to Be Me at last year's level of S4,000. They are also a program that makes wonderful use of very few dollars, but in light of the problems the Committee is having with funding, this year, he would move to reduce their funding S1,000 from S5,000 to S4,000. Aid. Rainey suggested that they ask the Mental Health Department for money, because the program they do is fabulous, and she is still encouraging Aid. Jean -Baptiste to get them involved with the Youth Initiative. The Committee voted unanimously to allocate S4,000 to the Girl Scouts' Program. Mr. Schoenfeld stated that he does not want to see the Graffiti Technician Program reduced, but it seems that there might be alternative funds available. Aid. Rainey said there is a big budget line item for the Graffiti Technician. Mr. Schoenfeld suggested in that case, to reduce their allocation by S2,000 to S27,000. Aid. lean -Baptiste seconded the motion, if they could get some other allocations for the program. Aid. Rainey said she thinks it's wrong to reduce some of them below what they were. She asked what the tally was at that point. They were S6,025 over. Ald. Jean -Baptiste agreed with Mr. Schoenfeld's approach to having alternative sources of funding for the Graffiti Technician. He suggested pursuing those alternative sources and making some minor reductions there. "The Committee supports all these programs but they need to zero out the balance," he said, "The reduction is not an indication of lack of support, but looking at the pattern and the approach that there may be some alternative sources of funding that they could tap into." The Committee voted unanimously to reduce the Graffiti Technician Program's allocation to S27,000. Aid. Bernstein asked for a statement from the members of the Committee on the Council to the extent that since they are now proposing to cut the Senior Crime Prevention Program, which has helped him in his ward too many times to count, has been an incredible program and they have been getting time and a half for part time pay, so that he said it is now in at S 15,000, but he encourages the acting chief to Page 13 — Minutes CDBG Review Mecting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 come in and ask for more funding. He would ask it to be funded at the S19,000 from last year, but he doesn't know where he is going to get it from the rest, because it is "one of those years." fie continued that it is an incredible program and he thinks it is incumbent on the City Council to fund it, maybe even to a full time position. Aid. Rainey responded that that is a staff decision, but she agreed. Aid. Hansen agreed with Aid. Bernstein and had been trying to find a way to fund Senior Crime Prevention Program at the same amount as last year because the quality of work is phenomenal. She moved to reduce the allocation to the Youth Job Center of Evanston down to S57,000. it would still be over what they allocated last year. They refined their mission and what they were doing and made their operations more efficient and they attested to that, so even with a little more money, but less than the original allocation, she thinks they will still do pretty well with S57,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. The Committee voted unanimously to fund the Youth Job Center at S57,000. They were then S 1,145 over the cap. Mr. Schoenfeld moved to split the reduction between the Legacy Project and the YAM Annual College Retreat — two absolutely fabulous programs, but he did not believe they could leave any one utterly un-spared of reductions, reducing the Legacy Program by $600, and the College Retreat by S545, allocating $9,400 to the Legacy Project and $11,455 to the College Retreat. Aid. Rainey stated that she really wanted to increase YANI this year, and they did, so that will allow for a couple of more students to go. Aid. Hansen seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey commended the College Retreat Program and the youth of the community on the great job they do. The Committee voted unanimously to allocate to the College Retreat Program S 11,455 and to allocate to the Legacy Project $9,400. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the entire list of Public Service Allocations. The Committee took a short break. Aid. Rainey called the meeting back to order. Mr. Schoenfeld stated that the Committee needed to find 544,714 and moved to reduce the Alley Paving Program from $100,000 to $75,000. That amount is half of what is requested currently. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. The Committee voted unanimously to allocate $75,000 to the Alley Paving Program. Aid. Rainey stated that given that the Alley Paving Program has been reduced, she moved to reduce the Alley Assessment Assistance Program's allocation from S45,000 to S40,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. She stated that it would be a busy year for Public Works with the Ridge Avenue and other construction going on. The Committee voted unanimously to allocate S40,000 to the Alley Assessment Program, Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to further reduce the Alley Paving Program's to S60,000 since they have begun a different method of paving the alleys by just leveling them off and blacktoppinb them, and that one of the developer's had committed to pave part of one of the alleys. Aid. Rainey asked Aid. Jean -Baptiste to reconsider his motion because they have S75,000 set aside for Block Curb and Sidewalks and to go after the Alley Program any more may not be such a good idea. So she suggested taking it from the Curb and Sidewalkk Program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste accepted the suggestion. Aid. Hansen stated that at that point they needed to reduce the allocations by 514,714. She suggested not lowering the Block Curb and Sidewalk Program because these are things that people see and appreciate like the sidewalks, alleys and accessible ramps, and the Block Curb and Page 14 -- Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 Sidewalk Program is already half of what they are requesting and the same amount as they allocated last year. She suggested looking at ECDC. Right now their allocation is at 560,000 and that is twice as much as was allocated to them last year and yes, they are doing a tremendous job in the community, but her suggestion would be to take that 514,714 from the 560,000. It is still giving them a little bit more than half of what they are requesting. It is giving them a lot more than they were allocated last year. Ald. Rainey said that her recommendation to ECDC was a lot less than what she eventually agreed to. She thought they could split it between Curbs and Sidewalks and ECDC: 57,000 and 57,000. Aid. Hansen accepted that split. Aid. lean -Baptiste suggested that if you observe that during the last year there has been a significant amount of curb, sidewalk and street paving going on, so their capital improvement has been significant and they made a major allocation overall. So he believes the impact from the further reduction from ECDC has a greater exponential impact on its work that we need with human beings in the community, than the reduction in the Curb and Sidewalk or even a further reduction in the Alley Paving Program_ So he suggested staying with Curb and Sidewalk and take it from them instead of taking from the ECDC allocation. He believes that ECDC will contribute significantly to the community if they maintain the allocation of 560,000. Aid. Rainey said that ECDC could stand to have 55,000 reduced and take the S10,000 from Curb and Sidewalk. She did not want to hit Curb and Sidewalk with the full amount. Aid. Jean -Baptiste agreed to compromise and reduce the Curb and Sidewalk Program's allocation by S 10,000, and ECDC by approximately $5,000. Aid. Rainey also said they may conceivably see more dollars to share from some unallocated funds, as the year comes to an end. Aid. Hansen argued that although they have some blocks and curbs redone, there are still a lot of areas in CDBG areas that do not have any sidewalks and people can not get from one side of town to the other because there are no sidewalks. They have to walk in the street. So she was making a last ditch effort to split the S 14,000 in half between ECDC and the Block, Curb and Sidewalk Program. Aid. Rainey reminded Aid. Hansen that Mr. Fry is going to extend the sidewalk down Oakton, if his project ever gets underway. Aid. Hansen said there are other areas that need sidewalks. Aid. Rainey said they can look further. Her recommendation would be 54,000 plus and $10,000. Ms. Flax, upon request stated that the amount over the cap was 514,714. Aid. Bernstein clarified that the motion would be to reduce the allocation for the Block, Curb and Sidewalk Program to 565,000 and to reduce ECDC to 555,286. Aid. Rainey said it would still give ECDC the largest increase of any single applicant over the previous year. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the reductions of the Block Curb and Sidewalk Program and the ECDC Programs to 565,000 and 555,286 respectively. Aid. Bernstein moved to adopt the totality of the recommendations set forth in the amount of 52,234,271 A0. The motion was seconded. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the allocations. Aid. Bernstein stated that this was his ninth time doing; this, and for the benefit of those who are there for the first time, when you sit up there you have occasion to say no to a lot of people who you do not want to say no to, but this is the worst night of an Alderman or Committeeman's tenure, largely because every single one of these represents an incredible need that we should try to fulfill. He stated that he feels badly about very many of them. He said he feels worst about the Senior Crime Prevention Program. He said, "I'll 1==61 �ni 5! } � � � - - ... - .. - .' - � - _ ., .errq ••�9 ��ifllf•+.t.i',j�v.0 .,i4.:! Page 15 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 say it again, Amanda Jones, to the extent that we have any more money coming in, I would ask this Committee to increase the cap on their Public Services, and I will personally, if it takes Bake Sales, get her to come back at full strength, because 1 feel that it is so important." Aid. Rainey agreed to put it at the top of their list, if they get additional money that will open up the cap. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said he would like to echo what Aid. Bernstein stated and asked the Aldermen on the Committee to help see if they can get some funds from the general fund budget to support the work that Amanda Jones has been doing because there is a bunch of -iffy" work that is being done by a bunch of other people but hers has so much certainty and so much service provided with so little that he believes they need to find a way to support that. "Having said that," he said, they said the same thing last year and they need to see if they can make that real. He said they are facing a very tough budget this year but they need to demonstrate that commitment in a real way. Aid. Rainey agreed and she said they should recommend to the Police Department that they place the extra funding request in their budget and explain, if there are any complaints from the City Manager's Office or the Finance Department, the Aldermen on the Community Development Block Grant Committee directed that that be done and that they are going to support that request. Ald. Rainey thanked the Committee and requested that the staffrepeat the allocations in all categories. Ms. Flax read the Community Block Grant allocations for the 2007-08 Fiscal Year. ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING: CDBG Administration: $310,000; Housing Advocacy: S73,320; MBE/WBE/EBE Program: S61,814. Total S445,134. PUBLIC SERVICES: Blue Heron Theatre: S2,500; Carepoint/Community Unity One Program: S5,000; Evanston Community Defender's Office: S50,000; Fresh Start/First Base: S4,000; Girl Scouts/Fit to Be Me: S4,000; Interfaith Action of Evan ston/Employment Counseling: SO; Interfaith Housing Center/Homesharing Program: S) 5,000; Interfaith Housing Center Foreclosure Prevention Program: SO; Legal Assistance Foundation: S9,000; Meals at Home/Food Delivery to Seniors: S8,500: Music Institute of Chicago/Taking Music to Seniors: S 1,496; North Shore Senior Center/ Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services: S24,000; Open Studio Project/Art and :fiction Program: S3,500; Shorefront Legacy Project: S9,400, World Relief Du Page 1mm igrat ion Legal Services: SO; Youth Action Ministry/Annual College Retreat: St 1,455: Youth Job Center of Evanston/Youth Employment Semices: S57,000; YWCA Domestic Violence Services: S35,000; Connections for the Homeless/Entry Point Program: SO; Informed Citizens Project: SO; Graffiti Technician and Graffiti Removal Program: $27,000; Adopt a Fancy Can: S5,000; Summer Youth Employment Program: S47,000; Senior Crime Prevention Program: S 15,000. Total: S330,851. Page 16 — Minutes CDBG Review Meeting Wednesday, November 15, 2006 HOUSING: CEDA Neighbors at Work/Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance: $150,000; Housing Code Compliance: S300,000; Community Development Department Administration: S108,500; Housing Rehabilitation: S150,000; Adaptive Devices for Accessibility: S10,000; Handyman Services: S12,000; Revolving Loan Fund: S200,000. Total: S930,500. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS: South Evanston Neighbom/Custer Street Improvement Program: $5,000; Accessible Ramp Program S50,000; Perry Park Renovation: $100,000; Alley Paving: $75,000; Block, Curb and Sidewalk Program: S65,000; Alley Assessment Assistance: $40,000. Total: S335,000. PUBLIC FACILITIES: Childcare Ccnter/Preschool Program: S18,500; Evanston West Side Citizens/Restoration of 1817 Church Street: S10,000; Weissbourd Holmes/ Family Focus Center. S30,000; McGaw YMCA Elevator Rehabilitation: S35,000; YWCA Domestic Violence Services: $16,000. Total: S109,500. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Villages of the World: SO; Evanston Business Center and Evanston Online: Withdrawn; Neighborhood Facade Improvement Program: $25,000. Total: S25,000 COMMUNITY -BASED DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS: Evanston Community Development Corporation: $55,286. TOTAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDING: $2,234,271. Ald. Rainey asked for comments from the Committee. There were none. IV. STAFFICITIZEN COINIMEtiT: There were no comments from staff or citizens present. IV. ADJOUkNINIENT Hearing no comments from the Committee or the citizens present, Ald. Rainey thanked the Committee for a wonderful experience, expressed her appreciation for all their hard work and moved to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman Exec. Secretary, Planning Division APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, December 19, 2006 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 6:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Donna Spicurza, Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATIOY OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m.. If. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 15, 2006 MEETING A motion to approve the minutes of the November 15 meeting was made by Aid. Jean - Baptiste, seconded by Aid. Hansen and approved by unanimous vote. Ill. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2007/08 CDBG PROGRAM BUDGET AND PROPOSED ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2007108 Aid. Rainey opened the public hearing on the proposed 2007108 CDBG budget and One - Year Action Plan. Referring to the sign-up sheet, Aid. Rainey noted that Sandra Hill of Family Focus had signed in and asked if she wished to speak. Ms. Hill responded that she had signed in to note her attendance and did not wish to speak. Aid. Rainey next called on Mary Friedl, who was signed in to speak. Ad. Rainey noted that she would have staff address the status of the complaint that Ms. Friedl had filed with HUD after the public hearing portion of the meeting. Ms. Fried[ noted that she was learning all the details of the CDBG funding process and had recently learned from staff of the 30-day citizen input period, but located the notice in the December 7 issue of the Evanston Review only after contacting staff to get the page number and commented there had to be a better way of notifying the public. Aid. Rainey responded that the City pays to print a notice in the newspaper and that information is on the CDBG page in the Community Development section and was on the calendar at least three weeks prior to the meeting. Ms. Friedl commented the agenda was not linked to the calendar until much more recently. Sarah Flax noted that the December 19 meeting for public input was clearly noted on the CDBG page of the website in the calendar of events and activities pertaining to CDBG funding. Aid. Rainey added that the December 19 public hearing was included on literature about the CDBG program that is distributed in the community throughout the year and that the public heating meeting was always held in December. Aid. Bernstein added that this meeting was only one opportunity for input, and that public comments are accepted throughout the 30-day period. Ms. Friedl concluded by saying she did not find the information on the CDBG page of the website. Aid. Rainey asked if she had additional input or if her comment regarding the public notice to the pubic about the meeting was her input, Ms. Friedl responded that it was. Aid. Rainey next called Adriana Cano, who responded that she was observing and did not wish to speak. Aid. Rainey then called on Amanda Jones. ,Ms. Jones introduced herscif as the Senior Crime Prevention Specialist, Evanston Police Department, thanked the Housing & Community Development Act Committee for funding her program. She also thanked the Committee for its recognition of her role in serving the community at the November 15 meeting, noting the importance of their moral, emotional and ethical support to her. The Committee members thanked her for the positive feedback and reiterated the value of her work. Aid. Rainey asked if anyone else had any input. Receiving none, she closed the public comment portion of the meeting. IV. STAFFICIT1ZEN COMMENT Aid. Rainey asked Sarah Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator, to explain a complaint filed with HUD by Mary Freidl regarding lack of accessibility of CDBG-funded programs. Ms. Flax said that accessibility was already being addressed in response to Ms. Friedl's prior input regarding lack of accessibility at Family Focus. Findings were that, based on the Family Focus building's status as an existing structure, it is not held to the same standards of accessibility as new construction. Family Focus has supplied information about their transition plan, including a document that details the work needed to achieve accessibility and a bid document for that work. These documents have been reviewed by the legal department; Jay 'ferry, Director of Health & Human Services, was also consulted. Ms. Flax contacted Kimberly Danna, Evanston's HUD Representative, who referred her to Herb Ziegeldorf, who handles ADA-related issues. Mr. Ziegeldorf noted a number of requirements for receiving CDBG funds, including an accessibility transition plan for existing buildings, and suggested that funding for Family Focus' IiVAC project and Blue Heron's theatre program could be subject to provision of a transition plan. Ms. Flax noted that in the draft of the One -Year Action Plan, funding for Family Focus was contingent on provision of a complete transition plan, which would include the work needed for accessibility, a timeline, funding, and the individual responsible for the plan. Blue Heron Theatre would need to submit a revised program plan because the recommended funding of S2.500 is significantly lower than their S45,000 request; they would need to address accessibility of their program in that plan. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Flax to arrange for HUD staff to visit Family Focus and provide definitive information as to what action would be required of Family Focus and Blue Heron to be eligible for CDBG funding. Aid. Bernstein noted that funding for both would be contingent on HUD approval. Aid, Jean -Baptiste noted that family Focus has been following the process outlined by the government by developing a transition plan, etc. i Aid. Bernstein added that we need HUD to review their plan to ensure it meets federal requirements. V. OTHER BUSINESS Aid. Rainey welcomed John Barrier Williams, Fresh Start -First Base and asked if he had any comment to make, as the public comment portion of the meeting had been completed prior to his arrival. Mr. Williams thanked the Committee for its support and noted that he looks forward their continued wort: together. He concluded by saying that despite not agreeing on all things, he strives to be agreeable. Aid. Rainey asked if there was any further business and asked Ms. Friedl if she had any additional comments. Ms. Frieda noted that her complaint was broader than the Family Focus and Blue Heron Theatre cases and that she did not believe that processes to monitor CDBG subgrantees and ensure compliance with ADA requirements were in place. Ms. Friedl cited the Youth Action Ministry college tour as a program that may not be able to accommodate a person in a wheelchair. Discussion about whether programs need to be fully accessible or instead could be adapted or modified to accommodate individuals with disabilities as the need arises ensued. It was agreed that recipients of CDBG funding need plans for accommodating people with disabilities. Discussion regarding what constitutes an appropriate plan ensued. Aid. Jean -Baptiste noted that requiring accommodations for people with disabilities from organizations before the need for a specific accommodation is determined may create an undue burden, and that instead, when accessibility is an issue for an individual with a mobility impairment, accommodations should be quickly made. Ms. Friedl voiced a concern that a disabled individual may not apply for a program because it is perceived to be inaccessible. Aid. Rainey noted that accessibility of CDBG-Funded programs was being monitored. All applicants for CDBG funding are required to have non-discrimination policies and must accommodate individuals with disabilities as a condition of receiving funding. Aid. Bernstein commented that people with disabilities might not apply for programs that they perceive as not accessible to individuals with disabilities, so plans to accommodate the disabled need to be proactive. fie noted that HUD's letter requests proof of the City's procedures to ensure accessibility. Ald. Rainey agreed that organizations receiving funding must have a plan to accommodate the disabled if their programs are not fully accessible, noted this is a priority of the Committee, the City and of HUD, and that it is being addressed. V. ADJOUR:`NIEtiT There being no further business, the meeting %vas adjourned at 7:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, February 20, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 5:45 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald, lean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Rainey, Coleen Burrus, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 5:50 p.m. II. RECOMMENDATION TO REALLOCATE UNSPENT CDBG FUNDS FROM PROJECTS COMPLETED IN PRIOR YEARS Staff recommended reallocating unspent funds in the amount of S 14,317.92 from seven completed CDBG programs to special alley assessments to fund all grants awarded to date with a balance of $676.96 to be added to the recommended 2007/08 Alley Special Assessment of S40,000. Staff will write up the accomplishments of the Alley Special Assessment program for publication in Highlights or other vehicles as appropriate. A map showing geographic areas served will also be developed. Motion to approve the reallocation was made, seconded and passed unanimously. III. REQUEST FOR PAYMENT OF BUILDING INSURANCE FOR 1817 CHURCH STREET BY EVANSTON WESTSIDE CITIZENS The Evanston Westside Citizens requested a change in allocation of CDBG grant monies from the 2006107 program year to pay the building insurance premium for 18 17 Church Street for one year effective as soon as possible. The policy by Hartford Casualty Insurance Company provides property and liability coverage. City. The annual premium is S5,451.00. Staff recommended approval in order to protect the City's financial commitment and community investment in this property. A motion to approve payment direct to the insurer was made, seconded and passed unanimously. IV. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT There was no stafior citizen comment. V. ADJOUR\lIENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:03 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSLtiG AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, March 27, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 6:00 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Ald. Hansen, Aid. Rainey, Coleen Burros, Dave Schoenfeld PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. II. APPROVAL OF DECEMBER 19, 2006 AND FEBRUARY 20, 20071IEETING MINUTES. Minutes of the December 19, 2006 and February 20, 2007 meetings of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee were approved as presented. III. RECOMMENDED REVISIONS TO 2007108 CDBG GRANTS BASED ON RECEIPT OF ENTITLEMENT ALLOCATION AND 2006/07 PROGRAM INCOME Receipt of the City's entitlement grant of S2,010,617, $5,054 less than estimated, and 2006/07 program income of S 133,449, S76,551 less than estimated, necessitates revisions to estimated CDBG grant awards. Staff recommended allocating S62,044 from the Revolving Loan Fund to maintain all grants in the non -capped categories at the levels recommended by the Committee and as submitted in the approved Action Plan for 2007/08. Staff explained the maximum CDBG expenditure in the Administration category is determined based on the current year entitlement and current year program income, so its total is not finalized until the close of the fiscal year. In light of the actual program income in 20061`07, staff recommended reducing spending by S7,320 (CDBG Administration and Housing Advocacy) in this category. Program income will be monitored closely in the current fiscal year and further changes will be recommended if a need is anticipated. The CD Committee requested an explanation for the drop in program income in 2006/07 from prior years and the estimate. Staff will report findings to the committee at the April meeting, Staff detailed the revised maximum of S321,610 available for spending on Public Services category for FY 2007/08 based on entitlement ofS2,010,617 and 2006/07 program income of S 133,449. A proposal to reduce category spending by S 12,241 from the November grant allocation was reviewed and discussed. Adjustments were made to eleven grant amounts to comply with the new cap. ti r A motion to approve the revised grant allocations in the Administration and Public Services categories by S7,320 and S12,241, respectively, and to reallocate S62,044 from the Revolving Loan Fund to 2007/08 CDBG program budget was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Final grant amounts are listed in the attached spreadsheet. IV. UPDATE — 1817 CHURCH STREET RENOVATION BY EVANSTON WESTSIDE CITIZENS Staff reported that the Evanston Westside Citizens provided a summary of remaining work to rehab the 1817 Church Street building that indicated all major work is complete and only relatively minor interior finishing remains to be done. Remaining invoices being processed will bring total spending to approximately S175,300. Approximately $25,000 remains of the CDBG funds granted in FY 2006/07 and S10,000 in 2007/08 CDBG funds was conditional on a public opening in January 2007. A revised date for the public opening of the facility has not been provided in response to requests made in writing for that date. The committee requested what permits have been issued and if inspections of the rehab work have taken place. Staff will research and provide information to the committee by email. Staff detailed actions to ensure the project complies with HUD requirements including documentation of compliance with Davis -Bacon, identification of tools purchased with CDBG funds that will become the property of the City upon completion of the rehab, and exclusion of costs (including interior furnishings) that are not allowable under CDBG regulations. Evanston Westside Citizens have been apprised that utilities including gas, electricity and water cannot be paid with CDBG funds when the building is open to the public, as they are operating expenses. Telephone and internet monthly service chPrges have been excluded from payments. The CD Committee requested that a site visit be set up for the week of April 2. Staff will contact B. Palmer to arrange a time for the tour. V. UPDATE — HUD/DEPARTMENT OF FAIR HOUSING & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY REVIEW OF ACCESSIBILITY AT FAMILY FOCUS BUILDING In the absence of a clear position from Doug Gamble, Accessibility Specialist for the State of Illinois Capital Development Board directed or Norma Mateo of the Disability Rights Bureau of the Illinois State Attorney General's Office as to whether the State of Illinois considers a state-of-the-art lift an appropriate accommodation, Herb Ziegeldorf, HUD Office of Fair Housing &,: Equal Opportunity, has requested to know from what source Family Focus determined that an upgraded lift would not meet state accessibility code. Staff has contacted Family Focus for that information and will provide it to HUD. VI. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Staff provided information on new forms developed in Excel for reporting both clients served and grant expenditures that will be used to simplify reporting in FY 2007/08. In addition, purchase of services agreements have been updated to include summaries of the progmm/project, work plan and budget based on subrecipients grant application. Additional information regarding requirements to comply with ADA and related acts, Davis -Bacon, and insurance coverage has been included in all purchase of service agreements. Purchase of service agreements will be finalized based on the grant amounts approved by the committee and provided to subrecipients for signature. Orientation and training sessions will be scheduled for all subrecipients; staff will meet individually with new subrecipients as well as those receiving renewal grants who have difficulties or questions regarding compliance with reporting, etc. VlL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COINFIN UNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, April 24, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. -- Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax 1. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. II. APPROVAL OF March 27, 2007 MEETING MINUTES. Minutes of the March 27, 2007 meetings of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee were approved as presented. III. ALLEY PAVING — REVISED PROJECT PLAN The proposal made by Public Works to pave the east -west alley east of Elmwood Avenue and south of Crain Street in the 41h Ward was reviewed. Estimated cost of the project is $64,000. The remaining S11,000 in CDBG funds allocated for alley paving in 2007/08 will be used for alley maintenance initiatives in the CDBG Target Area. Motion to approve by Ad. Bernstein, second by Aid. Hansen; motion approved unanimously. IV. 2006/07 REVOLVING LOAN INCOME VS PRIOR YEARS Staff reviewed program income generated by the Revolving Loan Fund in the last three fiscal years. The reduction in 2006/07 income was due to fever payoffs of Single Family loans vs, prior year; seven loans were paid off in 2006/07 vs. 14 loans in 2005/06. Staff will meet quarterly to monitor the status of the loan portfolio in the first half of FY2007l08 in order to develop a conservative estimate of program income for use in the fOrntttla fir estimating the 15% cap for the Public Services category for FY2008/09. The Committee requested additional detail on the revolving loan fund at the next CD Committee meeting, including payment delinquencies on amortized loans and any action takcn to rernedy the situation, size of amortized and title transfer loan portfolios (total dollars, average loan amount), length of time loans have been open, number of loans by type (single family, multi family, etc.), also information on how many and what type of new loans are projected for 2007/08. V. 1817 CHURCH STREET RENOVATION BY EVA.rSTON WESTSIDE CITIZENS Staff reported that the inspection of 1817 Church Street requested by the CD Committee was in the process of being confirmed for the week of April 30. Inspections will be scheduled at 4 pm or later based on ability to get access to the premises. In addition, staff ill schedule times at which CD Committee members may tour the facility. Inspection and tours will be scheduled prior to the next CD Committee meeting on May 15. V1. STAFF/CITIZEN CO'iINIE\T Staff provided an update on the Fancy Can program, reporting that seven cans were requested and distributed in 2006. A total of60 cans have been distributed from 2002 through 2006. Two cans have been requested in 2007, both for properties near the corner of Church and Dodge. Staff will review the process for providing liner bags to facilitate emptying the cans. In addition, staff will work with Donna Stuckert to publicize the program. Staff plans to send thank you notes to Fancy Can participants this summer on behalf of the City and CD Committee. Staff distributed copies of an article on the Alley SpecIail Assessment program written in collaboration with Public Works department personnel that will run in the summer issue of the City's Highlights newsletter and on the City website to generate awareness of the program and its benefits to individual property owners who qualify for assistance, as well as to the community at large. A different CDBG program or project will be featured in each issue of Highlights to reinforce the importance of the CDBG program to Evanston. Staff noted that the committee meeting scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on May 15 would be the public hearing on the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). A notice will run in the Evanston Review on 513 and 5110 and will be mailed to interested parties. V1 . AD.IOUR .NIEtiT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, May 15, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jcan-Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Colcen Burrus, Audrey Henderson PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:44 p.m. II. APPROVAL OF APRIL 24, 2007 MEETING MINUTES. A motion to approve the minutes of the April 24, 2007 meeting of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee was made by Aid. Bernstein, seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste and approved. III. PUBLIC HEARING FOR CITIZEN INPUT ON PROPOSED 2006107 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFOWMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT Aid Rainey opened the public hearing for citizen input on the CAPER by thanking Mary Friedl, the only person attending the meeting, for her continued interest and involvement in the CDBG program, and asking for her input. Ms. Friedl recognized the work of the Housing & Community Development Committee, noting the effort and thought that goes into its funding decisions, its willingness to consider good ideas from all sources, and the ability of its members to work together. Staff provided input from Pam Thomas, North Shore Senior Services, who was unable to attend the meeting but had called that afternoon. Ms. Thomas thanked the Committee for considering the needs of Evanston senior citizens and for supporting programs and services to meet those needs with CDBG dollars. There being no further citizen input, Aid. Rainey asked for a motion to approve the 2006l07 Consolidated Annual Performance CAPER with the amendment updating information on the Howard Street Station project on p. 12 and the inclusion of citizen input per the above. Aid. Bernstein moved for approval; the motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste and approved unanimously. The CAPER will be submitted to City Council for approval at its May 29 meeting. IV, CITIZEN INPUT ON COMMUNITY NEEDS FOR 2009/09 CDBG PROGRAM Aid. Rainey then opened the floor to citizen input on community needs for the year ahead by asking Mary Friedl for her input. Ms. I-riedl noted that some sidewalk ramps in Evanston were built to outdated design standards and arc not navigable by people in wheelchairs or with other mobility impairments. She also noted that sections of the brick sidewalks in downtown Evanston arc broken or uneven and therefore not accessible. The Committee requested that Ms. Friedl identify specific locations to ensure follow up and correction. Those in the CDBG Target Area are eligible for repair/replacement under the Accessible Ramp and Block Curb R Sidewalk programs, funded at S50,000 and S65,000 respectively in 2007/08. Pam Thomas' input via a phone call to staff was also reported. Ms Thomas requested that the Committee continue to consider the needs of seniors and allocate CDBG funds to support programs that address those needs in future years. V. COMMUNICATION a. REVOLVING LOAN FUND Staff retizewed the number and types of loans made through the RevolNing loan fund, and payment delinquencies. Two loans, one single and one multi family, are delinquent. Staff is evaluating whether the single family loan is eligible for restructuring because of income loss due to the death of one spouse. Staff continues to work with the multi family loan recipient to get payments current. Review of loan origination dates did not identify patterns to better predict loan payoffs, the largest portion of program income. The strength of the real estate market is the largest factor affecting payoffs and, if market conditions persist, it is expected that 2007108 program income will be similar to 2006/07, significantly lower than 2004/05 or 2005/06. The committee requested information on the location of properties benefiting from this program at a future CD Committee meeting. A household in the CDBG Target Area needs help disposing of a eery large fallen tree that has become a health/sanitation issue. Staff will determine if this can be accomplished through any of the CDBG-funded programs and will ensure the tree is removed. b. 1817 CHURCH STREET INSPECTION The Committee reviewed the results of the City inspection of 1817 Church Street completed on May 2, 2007. Committee members also talked about their observations based on recent site visits to the property. The Committee noted that the rehab work completed to date falls short of expectations and that funds spent to date were not used effectively or efficiently. They also voiced concern over the use of the remaining CDBG funds, approximately S25,000. Staff will notify the Evanston Westside Citizens that a detailed plan, including a minimum of three written bids from licensed contractors for all work, must be submitted to, and approved by, the CD Committee before additional funds are expended. All work must be inspected and approved by the City, The Committee requested that City legal staff be present at the next CD Committee meeting on June 19 to advise the committee regarding action that could be taken to address the situation. Staff will contact Bettye Palmer to arrange site visits for Ald. Bernstein and new CD Committee members. V1. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT None. VII, ADJOU& MENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax HOUSING AND CO�i,%IUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE .MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, June 19, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 6:00 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair OTHER ATTENDEES: Andrew Spatz, Signe Adas STAFF PRESENT: Elke Purze, Nancy Flowers, Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:15 pm. As there was not a quorum, agenda items were discussed only; no action was taken. II. APPROVAL OF MAY 15, 2007 MEETING MINUTES. Tabled until the July 17 meeting. III. NEIGHBORHOOD FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT — PHASE 3 OF THE STAMPfactory AT 2123-27 DEWEY AVENUE Staff recommended $21,000 in funding from the Neighborhood Fagade Improvement for phase 3 of the STAMPfactory project located at Payne and Dewey, an adaptive reuse project by Adas/Spatz Properties of several industrial/warehouse buildings into two story work/live spaces with open floorplans. All units in the STAI IPfactory are rental. Completed units in prior phases arc occupied by a variety of different business services, many of whom are Evanston residents. Mr. Spatz used a model of the entire property as well as drawings to illustrate the three units in phase 3. Each unit has indoor parking and complete kitchen and bathroom facilities. Committee members present supported the funding recommendation. A vote will be taken on the funding recommendation at the July 17 CD Meeting. IV. 1817 CHURCH STREET REHAB PROJECT Staff reviewed two past due bills submitted for payment by the Evanston Westside Citizens on June 7. A Home Depot bill for S236.00 for purchases made in March will be on the 6125 bills list so it will be paid before additional late fees are incurred. Committee members agreed that a Northern Weathermaker bill for S2,069.19 for repairs to a heating unit completed in January should also be paid. Staff will submit it for the July 9 bills list. As requested at the May 15 CD Committee meeting, Elke Purze outlined the process for the City to reclaim the property according to the terms of the quit claim deed. Approval by a majority of CD Committee members at a meeting with a quorum is needed to initiate action. if the Committee were to vote to recommend such action to the City Council, a resolution would be drafted and a majority vote of the Council would be needed to proceed. Ms. Purze recommended communicating with the Evanston Wcstside Citizens Council by letter if the City were to initiate action to reclaim the building and will prepare a draft at the request of the Committee. Discussion about the disposition of the property if it were to be reclaimed by the City followed. It was acknowledged that any use must benefit primarily lots- and moderate - income residents to comply with HUD requirements for CDBG-funded projects. Options discussed included getting developers to rehab the property. Ald. Jean -Baptiste noted that the commitment to establishing a Black American museum and cultural center should be maintained, but an organization capable of bringing the project to fruition needed to be found; committee members agreed. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Alley Special Assessment — Staff brought to the attention of the Committee two elderly homeowners who did not apply for assistance by the deadline required for consideration but who qualified as special needs cases and recommended that CDBG funds be used to pay their Alley Special Assessments. Nancy Flowers confirmed that both are eligible for assistance (HH incomes <30% of area median) based on documentation to determine eligibility for City programs such as the Senior Taxi program. Committee members agreed that paying their assessments is appropriate use of the Alley Special Assessment funds. Staff noted that individuals applying for assistance outside the normal process and timeirame will receive assistance only in the case of special circumstances and will bring any such special cases to the Committee before granting assistance. In addition, staff and social services agencies that work with seniors and individuals with special needs will be contacted when the Alley Special Assistance applications are being mailed so they can identify residents who would be eligible for assistance, but may need help understanding and completing their applications. Staff is developing an estimate of the number of residents who may be eligible for assistance in 2007 08 and the potential number of applicants based on past experience to estimate if the dollars that would be needed for the nine alleys paved in 2006 are within the 540,000 allocated for Alley Special Assessment payments. If not, a sliding scale for assistance based on income could be instituted, (rather than granting full assistance on a first come first served basis) in order to help as many households as possible with the funds budgeted. Additional information will be provided at the July CD Committee meeting. VI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COTS MUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE 3iINUTES OF PUBLIC ,MEETING Tuesday, July 17, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. -- Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Hansen, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Coleen Burrus, Audrey Henderson, Sarah Breen PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:45 pm. II. APPROVAL OF MAY 15 and JUNE 19, 2007 MEETING MINUTES A motion to approve the minutes of the May 15 and June 19, 2007 meetings of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee was made by Aid. Jean -Baptiste, seconded and approved unanimously. III. NEIGHBORHOOD FAQADE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT — PHASE 3 OF THE STAMPfactory AT 2123-27 DEWEY AVENUE Details of the project adaptive reuse project by Adas/Spatz Properties of several industriallwarehouse buildings located at Payne and Dewey into two-story work/five spaces with open floorplans were recapped for the benefit of committee members who were not at the June 19 meeting. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of S21,000 in funding recommended for this project from the Neighborhood Fagade Improvement program; Coleen Burrus seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. IV. ALLEY SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAtii Staff identified unspent funds from the 2006/07 CDBG projects that could be reallocated to supplement the Ailey Special Assistance Fund if applications from income -eligible property owners exceed the S40,000 budget as projected based on prior year experience. In addition, the Committee agreed additional outreach to property owners in the CDBG Target Area is needed based on low applications relative to applications from property owners outside the CDBG Target Area and the hardship cases approved after the application date. However, this increased concern that applications from income -eligible property owners will exceed the S40,000 program budget. Various considerations, including instituting a sliding payment scale based on the % of area median income (AMI) rather than the full assessment for anyone at 80% or less ANTI, were discussed. It was agreed that a sliding scale is not practical to implement. In order to stay within the $40,000 budgeted for Alley Special Assistance in 2007/08, the Committee wants to restrict use of CDBG Alley Special Assessment funds to income -qualified property owners (80% or less fill AM[) in the CDBG Target Arca only. 1-fowever, the need to help low-income property owners outside the CDBG Target Area, especially "cash poor, house rich" seniors living on fixed incomes, and prevent special assessments from exacerbating their financial issues was acknowledged by the Committee. One consideration discussed was the Affordable Housing fund; another idea was to offer title transfer loans rather than grants, either through the Revolving Loan fund or other resources. Staff was asked to identify and evaluate options to address this issue. The mailing about special assessment assistance to property owners outside the CDBG Target Area should be held pending resolution of this issue. Staff was also asked to get details about the contribution that I lome Depot made toward the paving of a number of the alleys in 2005 in the neighborhood immediately to the east of Home Depot's facility and its impact on the cost to property owners and the City. V. 1817 CHURCH STREET REHAB PROJECT The Committee reviewed the past -due ComEd bill submitted to the City for payment on 7/15/07 by the Evanston Westside Citizens District Council (EWCDC). In addition to the past -due bill, EWCDC provided copies of disconnect notices for lack of payment dated 7/3/07 and 6/10/07. The last payment on the account made by the City in March was for service through 215/07. No other bills were paid by EWCDC or submitted to the City for payment until this submission. The ongoing problems with financial and project management resulting in late submission of bills and payment of additional fees, carrying charges and other costs were discussed; payment was not approved. Discussion regarding what action should be taken given the persistent problems with project and financial management followed. A draft of a letter requested by the Committee at the June meeting from the City Council to EWCDC stating that the City was initiating action to reclaim the building was reviewed. It was agreed that the letter needed to be revised to explain the position of the CD Committee in greater detail. Ald Hansen made a motion to begin the process to reclaim the building. Coleen Burrus seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. The Committee requested that staff draft two letters for review. The first letter is to EWCDC from the CD Committee to convey the Committee's continued commitment to establishing an African American Museum/Cultural Center. As E«'CDC has failed to open the facility to the public despite significant time and financial resources and the rehab work to date falls short of expectations, the Committee is recommending that the City Council take action to reclaim the property under the terms of the quit claim dead. The Committee intends to issue a Rl~Q to organisations in order to accomplish the goal of establishing an African American Museum/Cultural Center that benefits the residents of the neighborhood and of Evanston. A second letter will be drafted to the City Council detailing the status of the project and recommending that action be taken to reclaim the building. VI. REHAB LOANS —MARCH 2O05 TO PRESENT The Committee reviewed information about recent rehab projects and photos of two current projects. Aid Rainey explained an affordable housing issue in her ward that was not being addressed with Revolving Loan funds, since the needed work on the sewer system of town homes is for common areas. However, the cost of the work was beyond the means of the residents. Staff will review CDBG eligibility criteria regarding common areas of town home properties to determine if assistance can be provided using CDBG funds. Staff will also investigate use of the Affordable Housing Fund or other resources as means to assist LMI town home owners with repairs to common areas that are cited for code violations. VII. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT A. Audrey Henderson noted an issue at the Main Street Metra station relating to accessibility. The elevator that provides access to the southbound train platform is locked, making it impossible for persons with mobility impairments to get to the platform when no attendant is at the station. Staff will investigate and report findings and a resolution to the Committee. B. A draft of a Voluntary Compliance Agreement (VCA) to resolve the citizen complaint regarding accessibility at the Family Focus building was distributed. The draft is being reviewed by the Legal and Health & Human Services departments. Staff expects to receive the final version of the document this week and will distribute to other departments for review and recommended next steps. C. Staff noted that HUD has requested some additional information and minor revisions to the 2006/07 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) that was submitted May 31, 2007. Revisions would be made and submitted in July. D. Staff updated the Committee on the 2008/09 application process and noted that the application forms were being simplified. In addition, an orientation meeting is being held on July 26. Notices of the meeting and the application deadline have been sent to current grant recipients as well as all parties that have indicated an interest in CDBG and publicized on the City's website, in the email newsletter and will be in Highlights magazine in August. Viil. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, August 21, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Ald. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid, Rainey, Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO OR.DER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 pm. II. APPROVAL OF JULY 17, 2007 tiiEETING MINUTES A motion to approve the minutes of the July 17, 2007 meeting of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee was made by Aid. Jean -Baptiste, seconded by Coleen Burrus and approved unanimously. 111. 1817 CHURCH STREET REHAB PROJECT The second draft of the letter from the CD Committee to the Evanston Westside Citizens District Council was discussed. Staff will revise to: open with the explanation that the CD Committee is recommending to the Evanston City Council that action be initiated to reclaim the property for the reasons outlined in the letter. Quotations from the EWCDC proposal will be used and referenced and the proposal will be attached as an exhibit. Other additions are: CDBG funds committed and spent on the project to date (with spending summary attached as an exhibit); the insurance payment in 5"' paragraph as an example of basic expenses. "Black American Heritage House and Technological Resource Center" should be used consistently in the letter per EWCDC proposal dated I0/8/98. Staff will email a revised draft of the letter to the CD Committee for review and members will provide any additional input. Staff will locate the RFP/RFQ for redevelopment of the building that was issued prior to the property transfer to FWCDC as a potential model for a new RFPfRFQ. IV. ALLEY SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The Committee discussed the staff recommendation that the Alley Special Assessment Assistance program be implemented in 2007/08 as in the past and that use of either Affordable Housing Funds or Revolving Loan Funds for low/moderate income property owners outside the CDBG Target Area be investigated for future program years. Ald. Bernstein moved approval; Aid. Hansen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. Additional discussion about publicity for the program followed. It was agreed that information on the Alley Special Assessment Assistance program should be included in information provided to citizens who circulate the petitions for alley paving to help publicize the availability of financial assistance for low/moderate income property owners and help overcome resistance to projects based on cost. Staff will follow up with Public Works to determine if this procedure is already in place or should be instituted. Other vehicles to expand publicity include the City's radio station. e-Newsleficr and Highlights. Staff will follow up with Public Works to determine what information on the Alley Special Assistance Assessment Program is provided and at what point in the process. Staff provided information about the alleys in southwest Evanston that were paved in 2005. Project costs were divided among CIP, Home Depot TIF funds and special assessments. The Home Depot funds were used to reduce the size of the property owners special assessments. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Staff provided a summary of the status of2007/08 CDBG-funded programs and projects and outlined activities to improve financial and accomplishment reporting. Updated information will be provided on any subrecipient that applies for funding in the 2008/09 CDBG fiscal year. VI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:03 PM Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, September 18.2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. lean -Baptiste, Sarah Breen, Colecn Burrus, Audrey Henderson, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Acting Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. lean -Baptiste called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm. H. APPROVAL OF AUGUST 21, 2007 MEETING MINUTES One correction to the minutes was made by Audrey Henderson, who was listed as present but was not. A motion to approve the minutes of the August 21, 2007 meeting of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee with that correction was made by Coleen Burrus, seconded by Crawford Richmond and approved unanimously. 11I. 1817 CHURCH STREET REHAB PROJECT The Committee reviewed and unanimously approved the most recent draft of the letter from the CD Committee to the Evanston Westside Citizens District Council. Staff was directed to determine the appropriate way to provide information on the status of the project, as well as the Committee's recommendation to initiate action to reclaim the property, to City Council at its meeting on September 24. IV. FAMILY FOCUS — STATUS OF RESOLVING ACCESSIBILITY COMPLAINT Staff updated the Committee on discussions about the Voluntary Compliance Agreement (VCA) to resolve the citizen complaint about the inaccessibility of the Weissbourd- Holmes Family Focus Center for people %vith disabilities, specifically those in wheelchairs. Per its 2007/08 Action Plan approved by I -IUD. the City of Evanston will not release CDBG funds of $30,000 for Family Focus and $2.500 for Blue 1-Ieron Theatre (for performances in the Family Focus building) %%ithout resolution of the complaint. 2008/09 CDBG funding for Family Focus %vill also be contingent on its resolution. If a VCA has not been signed by November 12. 2007. the above mentioned funds may be considered for reallocation in the 2008/09 funding year. V. Family Focus is not prepared to sign the VCA developed by Herb Ziegeldorf, FHEO Accessibility Specialist, in its current form. Jim Hagy, Family Focus board member and Sandra Hill, Family Focus Director, were present at the meeting and explained their plans to meet with Mr. Ziegeldorf. Per their legal and architectural advisors, a new lift would not be compliant with the state of Illinois or ADA requirements. They also maintain that installing a lift within a year and an elevator subsequent to the lift is not economically feasible. Aid lean -Baptiste asked if Family Focus will have an amended voluntary compliance agreement worked out with HUD by November 12. Family Focus asked that the $30,000 not be considered for reallocation at this time, as they are making progress on reaching agreement on a VCA. Family Focus will keep staff apprised of their discussions with HUD/FHEO and progress toward resolution of the issue. VI. 2008/09 CDBG APPLICATIONS Staff provided a list of applications received: 27 applications are from outside agencies and 21 from City departments. Staff is revic%ving all applications to ensure that they are correctly categorized based on HUD eligibility requirements. Some applications include multiple activities that may be eligible in different HUD funding categories. Costs of these activities will have to be separated and assigned to different funding categories. This may provide a benefit of reducing the total dollars being requested in Public Services and Administration/Planning, the categories that are capped at 1 5% and 20%, respectively. In addition, staff explained that City staff time spent on specific programs like Neighborhood Fagade Improvement, which was formerly included in CDBG Administration, is being allocated to specific programs per HUD direction in order to directly associate program costs with outcomes. A summary of these changes will be provided to the CD Committee with the binders of applications. Binders are being organized; target distribution to the Committee is 9/28. First review meeting is 10/16 at 7 pm in Council Chambers. V11. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Pam Thomas, with Evanston/Skokie Senior Services, a CDBG subrccipient, requested direction from the Committee members on what information they would like to hear in the agency review meeting to help them in making their decisions. Coleen Burrus requested specific information on program outcomes and the resulting impact on the community, and how CDBG funds helped achieve those outcomes/impact. Staff distributed photos of three CDBG-funded projects: Housing Rehab, Perry Park & Child Care Center playground. VIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:25 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax r HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, October 16, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Buenas, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Bobbie Newman I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:13 p.m. Aid. Rainey explained that this is the beginning of the funding process for 2008-09 funding year. This year there are 48 proposals, totaling S1,300,000 over the amount of money we will probably have. Of those proposals submitted, some will probably not be able to be funded. Aid. Rainey asked that the applicants introduce themselves and state their contact information including phone, website and address. Aid. Rainey introduced the members of the Committee: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, 2i° Ward, Steve Bernstein, 0 Ward, Coleen Burrus, Plan Commission Liaison, Sarah Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator, Ald. Rainey, 8'h Ward, Sarah Breen, Crawford Richmond, Aid. Anjana Hansen, 9`h Ward, Bobbie Newman, Secretary. It. YOUTH ACTION MINISTRY (YAM) -- COLLEGE RETREAT Marcus Lang, First Vice President of YAM EXCEL, under Director, Kenneth Rodgers, introduced himself and stated that YAM is a diverse group that meets every two Sundays at Second Baptist Church, located at 1717 Benson Avenue, Evanston, IL. Their phone number is 847-869-6955. YAM has recently been recognized by the National Black Caucus out of Washington, D.C. for having one of the best youth programs in the country. In 2004 they won the Who's Who Group award for having; a youth program run 100% for students, by students. Mr. Lang stated that the reason they are here is because they need S30,000, so they can take their students to the annual college retreat. He then introduced tlae Second Vice President, Shawneesa Gibson. Ms. Gibson stated that the YAM began in 1983. It began as a program for the community and as it grew, became: worldwide. YAM Excel became a not -for -profit corporation and it had a clear opportunity to share and support the community and others. Volunteers work as role models and mentors to the community, providing them with educational assistance, job readiness and so much more. She introduced Executive Officer, Andre Epps, to further explain their need for S30,000. Mr. Epps explained that the qualifications for the annual college retreat is that all students must have a 2.0 GPA, a letter telling; why they would like to participate in the trip, a transcript, liability forms and they must participate in the community. He explained that the S30,000 would provide students the opportunity to experience college life. Many of them can't afford to go on this trip without the $30,000. To him, the trip brings success, and one's life is given a chance, giving hope to all of the students involved. He introduced Secretary, Natasha MacPherson. Ms. MacPherson stated that she has attended the college retreat for the past two years. It has been a great experience and she has gained a lot of knowledge. She learned what college is about and how to prepare Housing d Community Development Act CorrrniZoe Meeting Papa 2 October Ia. 2007 for the colleges of her choice. Her first year inspired her to go again: Taking a one week trip with a diverse set of students can change one's life, meaning determining whether they decide to go to college or not. It can also help many choose which college to apply to. Her second year helped her to pick a college to apply to. Without the trip, she wouldn't have had that college in mind. On the trip, they did a variety of exciting things such as going to visit colleges they had never seen before, going to museums and all of that was fun but it requires $350.00 per person. She stated that S30,000 would positively affect each youth. She introduced Jared Fry, a student who also went on the trip. Mr. Fry said that he visited eight colleges in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. One of the colleges he visited was Morehouse College, his dream school. When visiting Morehouse College, he got to see the Atlanta area ,and the opportunities blacks have outside of Evanston. It's not just about a small diverse community. He explained that by funding this program, it helps youth by allowing them to go and have experiences and that they can bring back what they learn from other areas of life to the community. He introduced President, Dario Mitchell. Ms. Mitchell thanked the Committee for the opportunity to present. She said, as the others stated, YAM is very prominent in the community. She explained that they are there not to tell the history of the organization but because they need the CDBG Committee:. She said $30,000 is a lot of money. She worked during the summer to contribute half of the S350.00 cost of the trip plus spending money, while her parents paid the other half, adding that not a lot of students have opportunities to get jobs and help their families. As the President of YAM, she assured the Committee that the S30,000 would be well -invested. YAM has not only helped students in the community, but they instill in the minority students, that they can go above and beyond their environment, above the challenges they face in life, and the things that happen to them every day. Being youth, and a program that is run by youth, for youth, they have a different outlook on it than an adult would. Their program is the best because they affect the youth directly. It is their community and friends that they are affecting. They know the problems that they face directly, such as teen pregnancy, drug usage, losing the males to jail cells and the graveyards every day. She lost a friend just this summer. She emphasized that the organization affects the community, not just the students' lives, but the lives of their families, because a lot of the students who go on the trip have younger siblings. They see them doing; something positive and they know they can do better in life as well. She said she was overwhelmed because she has seen how this program has affected her personally. She said she does well in school but with the program it's not just how one person is affected but how the lives of many people are touched. She thanked the Committee again for the opportunity to present. Aid. Rainey asked how many have been on the trip and how many want to go again this year. She added that November 13`h is funding allocation night and it will start at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. Aid. Bernstein said that he wanted to let the young people of the program and the Pastor know how wonderful they are. "We are so inspired by your presence in front of us every year, and grateful for your presence in this community and in this world." He thanked Ken Rogers, who used to be on the Housing; and Community Development Act Committee. 1CII. GIRL SCOUTS ILLINOIS CROSSROADS — FIT TO BE AfE Patricia Reyes introduced herself and stated that she works for Girl Scouts Illinois Crossroads Council is a Girl Recruitment Manager, where she manages, supervises and coordinates the Girl Scout programs in the 102 communities within their jurisdiction. The mission of Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence and character that make the world a better place. They would like to present their Fit to Be Afe program to at -risk girls in Evanston. A i -t:23x` Hotrskp d Community Development Act Commttee Meeting Page J October 16, 2007 grant of S9,000 would help subsidize the cost of the program to 130 girls in the Evanston area. The girls would be predominantly from the west and south sides of Evanston through collaboration with Family Focus and Y.O.U, program. Fit to Be Me is an umbrella of programs that is designed to teach girls to live healthier lives through exercise, better nutritional choices, positive body image and an understanding of good emotional development. Child and adolescent obesity is among the nation's top concerns. The number of obese and overweight girls between the ages of G and 19 has more than doubled since 1980. Type 2 Diabetes is quickly becoming the disease for youth, prominently found in African American and Hispanic girls. That is why it is so important to advocate for healthier lifestyles for our girls. The Fit to Be ,%fe program addresses these types of needs. 85 of the 130 girls would participate through Family Focus program, 45 would participate through the Y.O.U. program, and all would be drawn from the CDBG target area or from low income households, which their collaborative agencies have systems to determine. The Fit to Be Afe program consists of G to 8 sessions lasting from 30 to 90 minutes, meeting weekly, biweekly or monthly. They will receive guest presentations and educational field trips from local Evanston based agencies. She said they hope that through support from the CDBG fund, that they will be able to continue to give the girls from Evanston new information about how to live healthier lives. Contact information: 847-573-0500, volunteers can go to www.ilcrossroads.org. Aid. Rainey asked what ages the girls are that can participate. Ms. Reyes said they are mostly between 11 and 17 however the Girl Scout program is between the ages of 5 to 17. Aid. Rainey asked if most of the girls are recruited out of Chute School, to which Ms. Reyes replied that the majority of the girls arc from Chute Middle and Nichols Middle School. Aid. Rainey asked if they come back consistently to the program, to which Ms. Reyes replied that the Family Focus participants consistently come back every session. At Y.O.U. there is always between 15 and 25 girls who regularly participate. They have 2 different sites. For the incentive field trip at the end of the session, the Homestead always donates rooms and healthy snacks and different activities for the girls to do. The other girls also receive incentive field trips. Last year presenters from Wild Oats brought healthy snacks and beverages and the girls took a field trip and a voucher to purchase things of their choice based on what they had learned. _ Ms. Burrus asked where else they get their funding from. Ms. Reyes said the organization continually submits proposals to different corporations and foundations. For the Fit to Be Me program specifically, they submitted a proposal to the Kraft Foundation and they did receive funding for part of the money they've requested, and part of that money goes specifically to Family Focus and Y.O.U. Ald. Rainey asked if they get money from National Girl Scouts. Ms. Reyes said not for the Fit to Be Me program. The national organization offers opportunities for their Councils to apply for funding. One of the big focuses that they're offering funding for is science, technology, engineering and mathematics program. So currently they do not have any funding from their national organization for the Fit to Be Me program. Aid. Rainey thanked her for her presentation, IV. DIVINE WISDO` INSTITUTE FOR LEAR.\INC, INC. - STUDYflALL c& CLASSES Mr. Elijah Hall, Volunteer Program Director for DWILI, introduced himself. His contact information is 312- 286-7952. Their address is 2022 Dempster St., Evanston, 1L, Suite 203, and their website address is www.dwili.com. He explained that DWILI is a faith -based, non- profit organization dedicated to helping those who desire to think and learn more efficiently. Their mission is to use knowledge about brain development, communication and learning to Housing & Community Deveiopment Act Committee Meeting October 16, 2007 Peg* A enhance student achievement, human development and personal growth in children and adults by assisting them to learn or re -learn on a critical level resulting in higher intelligence, wisdom and awareness. They think that teaching children and adults how to think and reason critically is very important to the future of the youth not only in the target areas of Evanston but in general in education. They try to provide an environment where they can get participants to think about enhancing or improving where they are. They try to validate where they are, meet them where they are, and then develop programs for them to move them in the direction they would like to go in, not only academically, but socially as well. They have been operating without funding since DWILI has been established and he was brought in to apply for funding and to get the program to have a much more powerful impact in Evanston. He presented quotes from participants: "Basically, what I really love about the study hall and DWILI is that it's a mind set and this is very important because I've experienced with other tutors and they really tried, but I've experienced that it's only within the 60 minutes that they're in front of the children and after that it's finished. But with DWILI there is a guidance of how to help your children even when you're not in front of books, or just making every day situations learning situations and that's very important for children." He added that it's not only about the guidance and the validation but it's about the personalized learning plans. They try to guide students throughout their lives on how they can become not only more critical and effective learners but how they can appreciate the process of learning. They have seen that a lot of students do not appreciate the process or learning or have not learned how to learn and that is a huge focus with them. He then quoted: "Being able to focus more. That's what's important. Teaching a kid how to focus. Once they begin to focus then they can be able to, I guess kind of, sit down and they see themselves learning. That makes a big difference. Once they're learning, then they're able to sit down and become more mature." Pam Wilson, a parent of a study hall child. Mr. Hall said they have held study hall consistently on Saturdays at the Mt. Pisgah Church in Evanston at 1812 Church Street. That is what Ms. Wilson was referring to. It was one of the times when she actually got to see her child sit down, sit still and learn and go through the process and when a child does that and they are validated, it is a bib step for some of the families they deal with. They are not a replacement for the schools, nor are they criticizing the schools. They simply want to help students do well and with some program expansions they are trying to add on to how they do that, which will be explained later in his presentation. He quoted: "What I'm learning right now is that the change for a positive has a lot to do with your thinking process. 1 feel really good about myself right now. I'm inspired, I feel like I'm ready to go out there and become a productive member of society and a better mother." Cheri Keniow, Fresh Start program and user of DWILI Books last curriculum. Mr. Hall explained that DWILI shared its methods with the Fresh Start program of Evanston that deals with homeless and ex -offender casework and Ms. Kenlow, a participant, said that for her it was all about changing how she thought about things. That change is what led to the subsequent actions and that is really what they're about. If they can get inside the minds of lives of the students through mentoring, not tutoring, they can make effective change, and that is how they try to do it. One more quote: Housing d Community Development Act Committee Meekng October 16, 2W7 Papa S "DWILI has helped me renew my mind by giving me a new focus. Definitely giving me new goals and by creating higher levels to reach for." Jonathan Honore, former participant. Mr. Hall continued that not only are they there to create a structure and foundation and base if kids do not have that, but they are there to enhance what kids have, by saying, "Okay, you're doing well in school, let's set some other goals. Let's set some higher goals." We're there to say, "Well, you're doing well in school, what else is going on in your life? Let's talk about that." We want to be a consistent contact for these kids. We want to open up study halls that operate more than just once a week and move from just Saturday operation to two days a week and Saturdays or even three days a week and Saturdays. He presented what the program consists of now and what they are proposing: Currently 100% of DWILI staff and personnel are unpaid volunteers, him included. They would like to hire two to four new paid staff members. These positions would include the Program Director and one to three part time mentor based positions. They understand that it's important to have volunteers, but for the consistency and reliability they are looking for, they need people who are paid who can come in and say, "I'm doing this work and I know I'm getting rewarded for it." Right now they have people who do that anyway, and they're volunteers. They arc trying to expand the program by expanding; their staff. That is a huge part of their program expansion. One study hall site, Mi. Pisgah meets once a week. They are looking to have two to three study hall sites in the CDBG target areas. All sites arc collaborative partnerships that would allow the DWILI study hall to operate multiple times a week at different sites. Currently, Mt. Pisgah does not charge them for the site, the internet usage or the computers they have donated for DWILI's usage. Their collaborative projects like this are very cost-efficient because they partner with sites by saying they will come in and work with them so they can help these students. That is the emphasis of DWILI program. 100% of the supplies and program materials have been donated or purchased due to in kind donations, to this point. They would like to see a way to supply students with the materials and tools that they do not have when they are coming; to them for the support they need, including, note books, pens, school supplies and anything else that can help them in the areas they are trying to improve upon. Zero trips have been taken to other organizations and businesses in the Evanston area. They want to develop a new career management program that will provide monthly trips to Evanston and non -Evanston businesses and organizations. They will also emphasize business skills and business opportunities through the program. They do not want it to strictly be about academics or employment, but a full -circle, all - encompassing type of program. For that they need funding; and staff who feel like they can receive money for their work. They have that, but they're not currently being paid. Another part of the expansion would include a first-time data base analysis on the results the students receive once they participate in the program. They are looking; to implement a monthly assessment for each participant. They would like to conduct research that shows how students fare as they go through the program, as they complete the program, and as they move on through their lives. They have had wonderful success rates: students who have gotten into college, gotten jobs, or have gotten into the military or the vocational -based study that they wanted to get into. They have the examples and quotes but they do not have it quantitatively on paper like they would like, so they would love to launch a research phase. Last but not least, they have never received a grant for this organization. They currently have two grants pending: a grant from the Evanston Community Foundation and this one. Hous'ag a Community Desvbpment act Com rniuee Meetng Page a ocbber 18. 2007 It is very important that we rind ways to think critically about their situation. A Lot of kids don't understand where their past is taking them and what we try to do is to meet them there and to take them in a very productive direction and we feel like we can do that much more effectively with people who that's their job. Ms. Burrus asked who developed the program, to which Air. Hall replied that it was developed by Atty. Brownridge Tucker. She is the Executive Director. She wrote the book and the philosophy of the program. She asked who is conducting outside evaluation relating to cognitive thought and neurological data, saying whether that works or not, Mr. Hall replied that currently they are in the process of having Linette Collins write a paper on how this DWILI method connects psychologically to other psychological academic or intellectual thought. Ms. Bunus said that having the data and methodology written down and submitted to the Committee would be very helpful, adding that because of her background, having a very strong research component is be important to her. Aid. Hansen asked if any student can come or do they need to be of particular faith to participate in the program. Mr. Hall replied that they do not ask the faith of any of the participants. He was not asked his faith when he joined. It gets swallowed into the category of more religious things, and at the heart of this program is spirituality. It is a faith -based institution in that they are operating out ofa church and that is important, but they are trying to help those who need it most and that is the underlying factor, not what religious you are part of or anything like that. They don't ask that. We don't want that. We don't pray in any of our sessions. We don't require that. They merely come from a church -based foundation. Mr. Richmond stated that he's not surprised that Elijah developed into the young man that he is, but he is very, very appreciative that he is sharing his experiences with others in an attempt to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem, and he's very proud. Ald. Bernstein asked where they get their participants. Mr. Hall replied that currently they come from the general area of Mt. Pisgah. They have 12-20 participants, about 80% of their participants are from the target area. They want to start establishing a relationship with schools and get into schools and start somehow promoting their program as an after -school program, as a study hall where you can come after school. He's not sure legally how that works but they have not started the phase of reaching out to hoards of students because they do not have the staff to support that. Their participants come from all over. They're not just students who may want academic enrichment. They might be doing great in school and they may just want help on a job interview or resume building. They can also house those types of concerns and issues. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he is impressed with Mr. l fall's presentation. He said the notion of trying to take kids from their past is a good intervention. But like Steve had asked, of the kids who seem to need it, who they would like to see bet the service, how many of them, if any, are involved in the program? Are you reaching out to the hard-core kids who have fallen through the cracks? Mr. Fiall replied that they definitely have kids, one of the quotes is a mother, and she said that she is so glad that DWILi happened because she was about to take her children to a doctor because she thought there was a biological or psychological problem with her children. So they do have children who have struggled and who are struggling. As far as anyone from their program going out on the corner of Church and Dodge and holding up DWILI pamphlets, no they have not done that. It is difficult because they are applying for grants at the beginning of the school year and it is hard to galvanize a certain population when they are still trying to cement exactly their program and its strength. They still do operate �V, Housing a Community Development Act Comrmttee Meeting Pago 7 October 16, 2007 currently and have operated all summer. They have an influx in the K through 8 population and those populations are different from the populations that are on the street, the 9 through 12. He would love to see the 9 through 12 in the study hall and in the DWILI classes. tie believes that can be reached if you can connect with them and resonate with something that they're going through. Ile is able to verify that he has been where they are, but has not been able to do it. He is looking for the ability to go out there and get as many kids to come to the program as possible. They have not done enough of that, but their focus is the kids who need it most. Once they can hire a paid staff person, that is where they will send them. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stressed to Mr. Hall that there is a shortage of funds, as Aid. Rainey stated at the beginning of the meeting, and he advised Mr. Hall to reach out as far and wide as possible for funding and to try to get some fund raisers going because a lot ofpeople would support their activities. Mr. Hail stated that they completed a fund raiser this summer and they awarded about 13 certificates to kids who participated in their program and they did receive some funding from that. it's not that they don't apply for grants, it's that they have not been funded and he thinks it's one thing to say that they're really trying to improve the Evanston community, but it's another thing to sec it happen, and he personally has seen it happen, and he thanked the Board for what they have done to make improvements in the Community and that they will continue to do what they can, as well. Aid. Rainey said it was a very impressive presentation, but as you went on with the tasks you plan to accomplish, this is way too broad a program, and it sounds like you're very good at the tutoring pan but there were other things where there really are other projects that cover everything. If they could coordinate with the other groups, there could be less fragmentation. Everybody shsuldn't be doing all the same things. Mr. Hall responded that the career management part is something they feel will help those that come to them for that. They are about mentoring. That is their number one thing. They feel that these kids need a voice in their ear that says, "I understand." And someone who can relate to them and that is what they try to provide, and they try to do it in a way where they say not only should you be critical about your thinking process and how it affects you academically, be critical about your life. Aid. Rainey asked if he was familiar with the Youth Initiative project, She said the program needs to connect with Youth Initiative and Y.O.U. She said maybe our staff can make references. She added that she would like to see the program pared down a little. She thanked him for his presentation and program. V. OPEN STUDIO PROJECT -,-iRT d ACTION FOR AT -RISK YOUTfI Mr. Ted Harris, Operations Director, introduced himself and thanked the Committee on behalf of Dayna Block and Sarah Laiing, for 3 or 4 years of support for this program. It has been invaluable to them in helping them gain credibility and other kinds of funding. They arc applying for year-round after school and summer programming for 8-18 year old youth who are at -risk. They are trying; to serve 100 youth who are almost entirely from lour income but some also from moderate income families. They work in collaboration with all the other agencies that they can in Evanston, and many more than they work with keep corning; to them to participate. They currently work with Y.O.U. and PEER Services and they offer multi - week classes for the youth, free of charge. They use a very simple and direct creative process _ method that was developed by the original founders of Open Studio of Chicago when it started there about 15 years ago. The method has been evaluated by students from Northwestern and it's a method that has been taught in graduate schools around the country and has been in some national journals and books in the past couple of years. It seems to be a process that is getting; a lot of attention in terms of its actual impact on the people who use it. HouShV 3 Commundy Development Al Committee MeeWV October 16.2007 Page a In it they use an and writing — simple drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, map -making and so forth in combination with «•riling and public reading and it is a process, not necessarily to teach kids how to make beautiful things, but it's more using art as a methodology to help people get in touch with their own creativity, which they think is a fundamental life skill that helps you with anything. Being able to access your creativity in a really reliable, easy and enjoyable way, helps these kids envision a positive future. The goals of the program arc to give the youth an opportunity to express emotions that might be difficult to express elsewhere in a safer atmosphere, increase their ability to manage emotions that might lead to violent behavior and substance abuse. They also want them to demonstrate increased ability to make healthy choices regardless of outside influences so they want people to see themselves as a source of their own wisdom — they don't have to listen to their friends or their necessarily bad influences that they might find elsewhere in the culture. They also demonstrate that they're motivated to envision positive futures for themselves and show an increased level of empathy and better social skills. Each class ends with an exhibit of the artwork or sometimes it has a performance element which gives the parents and everyone in the community, a totally different side of a youth or a child. They're usually seen in a positive light as a creator and not a trouble maker, which is very different than they often find outside of this and these exhibits are often attended by family members and friends and sometimes social workers and parole ofiicets. They are trying to continue and expand this program. Currently they are have three after school groups on site but now they're also expanding to go to schools in collaboration with Y.O.U. and other programs. Aid. Rainey asked if all the kids in the program are referred by either PEER Services or Y.O.U., to which Mr. Harris answered yes, at the moment. Aid. Rainey expressed concern that if a person is not connected to Y.O.U., they arc not getting services. Those who get services get all the services, and then there are all the rest, who are not connected to Y.O.U. She said the program is so fabulous. It is more creative and exciting than a reading or tutoring program and it concerns her that if you're not hooked up, you won't get some of these very important services, however, she does like the fact that you're collaborating. If there were any way to get more children involved in this program. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Harris if he has any interaction with the City's Youth Outreach people from the police station who ride around in vans and pick up people on street corners. Mr. Harris replied that a couple of years ago they were working directly with that group and it was hard because this has to be in a group setting and in those they're all doing individual work, so if they don't come in a group that has a little bit of cohesion already, its very hard to ask them to take these kinds of risks in front of each other. That's why they collaborate with agencies where there's already something going on where they can know each other a little bit beforehand. But he wants to go in that direction again. Aid. Jean -Baptiste clarified that the children are able to access their creativity to envision positive futures and choose positive paths in the face of obstacles, etc., but yet you talk about a methodology that seems very passive. They come and they write and they draw. They express themselves. At some point they talk about their day and better manage emotions and anger. He said he doesn't know what fir. Harris is comparing those things with. Ile asked, "Where are the kids at point A and where are they after having gone through your program since it is a passive tool that you use to try to achieve these objectives. I low do you know?" Mr. Harris responded that he appreciated the question because in the past they used various kinds of worksheets where people gave examples of how they would deal with issues and they were given another assessment at the end but the best evidence lie can give is the writing and the artwork itself because it isn't passive, actually it's an extremely active exploration because Housln9 3 Cortxr+ my Development Ad Committee Mooting Odober 16, 2007 Paps 9 of the way they encourage people. The atmosphere they create in the program itself is one where there isn't criticism or even commentary so that each child, instead of passively making something, they really watch each other and they watch the program leaders, take risks and go to places they might not be comfortable with at all and the writing aspect of it is where the main thing works. They start out with an intention, and the intention is usually something like "1 learn about" whatever it is that they need to learn about that day. Then they explore this with artwork and at the end they write some more and see if they learned anything from doing this art process. It's not just a passive thing, it's very active and the places where everyone who does this process goes are very surprising. That's why they all believe in it. Because they see people go places they never would have expected and the leaders themselves have gone places in this process that they never expected and it's always, always positive. No matter how negative we feel when we start, or how negative their feeling seems to be when they look at the picture, the messages that they get when they write about it are so positive. The messages always encourages them and helping them think through problems. It's very surprising, but this is why he thinks it's a life skill because accessing this other side of yourself can help you with your more Iogical side of yourself in making good decisions. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how old the program is, to which Mr. Harris responded that it was started in 2000. Aid. Jcan-Baptiste asked if he is in touch with some of the kids from ttre problem. Mr. Harris said no, not really, because they don't really know where they go. He agreed that it would be good to get in touch with some of them. Aid. Jcan-Baptiste said that that is the way you would measure. Do you have plans to reach out to kids who are not in these programs that you are affiliated with? Mr. Harris said he could not answer that question because the curriculum developers are not present. As far as he knows, the idea is to keep expanding it. Currently they have 2 or 3 more groups than they had last year, so it keeps expanding more and more. People want to collaborate with them, not just with youths, but with other groups as well. He said he appreciates Aid. Jean-Baptiste's advice to go looking besides Y.O.U. and Peer Services. Ms. Burrus asked, regarding the evaluations done by Northwestern, if they were doing pre and Post and write-ups as the students were leaving the program. Mr. Harris replied that the main methodology that they used to directly evaluate their program involved a lot of going through the journals and writing of what the kids did from the beginning to the end and seeing changes. They would code, based on a methodology with codes that they came up with, coding the language to see what changes there were. He added that he would like to do it again. He said they did it at the end of 2005. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Harris to describe briefly who the classic candidate for their program would be. Mr. Harris said that this is a life skill, but the ones they get that gain the most out of it are different because they have high school age and middle school and they're so different from one another in terms of how they interact with the group, but in terms of the middle school ones, they're much more open to just tn.ing anything and it doesn't matter if they do it front of other people so being a little bit open to going someplace a little wild in your artwork and people who are able to express themselves, not necessarily in writing, but at least with some verbal ability. Aid. Rainey further explained tier question by saying, people are sent to the program because of some issue. Who are the kids that are sent to the program? Mr. Harris replied that with the Peer Services kids, it's dramatic. With the Y.O.U. group, which he is not directly involved in, it seems that a lot of them would be a kid who is struggling with basic issues because of issues of low income and racism and other issues that are going on in our culture and are looking for a place where they can explore inwardly, but in a very active way, to try and find out who they are and what matters to them outside of the usual group dynamic, Housing d Coawnunity Development Act Conrr.3ae 6teetrV ocbtw 18,2007 Pago 10 and the usual peer pressure and the usual influences that are coming from so many different directions. The usual candidate is a typical Y.O.U. student who is coming from a low income family and who doesn't have as many resources as higher income families would have to give their children an opportunity to do something like this. He added that this creative process and any art -based process is one asset of many in the community, and that in listening to what some of the other applicants are doing, he believes the more assets we give these kids, the better chance that some of them will stick. This is one of his favorites, but they are one of the only arts organizations that CDBG has been funding. He added that he thinks the social service aspect of art has been not as well understood. Aid. Rainey thanked him for his presentation and commented that it is a good program. V1. YWCA — EVANSTON NORTH SHORE — DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SERVICES Karen Singer, Executive Director of the YWCA Evanston North Shore, introduced herself and stated that they are requesting S40,000 for their case management and counseling domestic violence services. She introduced Shelley Gates, Board President and Genriyeta Papirov, Operations Director. She shared the following story: She was shopping in town at a retail store last weekend and a woman behind the counter smiled at her and called her name and said "Hi. Do you remember who I am?" And it was a different context from the YWCA, but then she remembered that the woman had used their domestic violence services, and in fact she had come to them two and a half years ago through their hot line, fleeing a very abusive partner with her daughter. She was admitted to their shelter after their intake process, and received counseling and case management services for herself and her daughter. She started to talk about getting a job and securing a stable home and within a few months moved into their transitional housing program located in Evanston and started to contribute 30% of her income towards rent because she did secure a job. She kept increasing her income, she kept up with her group and individual counseling over at the YWCA and within about a year and with the help of their housing coordinator she located an affordable apartment, and she moved into her own apartment and here she stood before Ms. Singer, telling her that she was now free from her abuser, she was supporting herself and her daughter. Ms. Singer felt so proud and felt that it was a perfect example of the best they have to offer and why they do the work they do. While they have been providing domestic violence services in this community for over twenty years, she is a success story. While the specifics change, hundreds of women like her come through their doors every year. And throughout all of their services they help women escape from the violence in their lives, heal from that violence and go on to live independent, self-sufficient lives, free from their abuser. They accomplish this work through the following program goals: They provide information and referrals to victims of domestic violence through their 24 hour hot line. Last year they answered 1,786 calls from women looking for help, 20% from Evanston. They provide victims of domestic violence with a wide variety of services including safe shelter: last year they served 175 women and children, 9% from Evanston; Legal advocacy: they served 239 clients, 20% from Evanston; Community based services for women who have not leis their abuser but need counseling and support and a safety plan: 41 women, 40% living; in Evanston; "Transitional housing: currently 6 women and 1 l children housed in this program in Evanston; served 566 unduplicated ~women and children, 15% were Evanston residents. Their average annual cost per client is approximately $1,400.00; $3.80 a day. Last year they were asked about other funding sources from other communities and this year they made a much more concerted effort to explore other funding. They did inquire about CDBG funding from Skokie, Chicago and Cook County, and none of them were options for them. But she wished to comment on the many different public and private donors throughout the communities they serve. This year they project over S600,000.00 in private funding, an increase of 300% since 2004. They receive funding from lmmmw Housing 3 Community Development Act Comncee Meeting Dmgw 16. 2007 Pape 11 churches, businesses, corporations and foundations throughout all the north shore communities. They have received funding from New Trier Township, United Way of Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka. Glencoe and the Northwest Suburban United Way. They have eleven different community groups from Northfield, Evanston and Winnetka making a significant contribution to the operations of their shelter through their adopt -a -room program. They are a perfect example of how government and other public and private funders come together from all the communities they serve to help them accomplish their goal and they are really grateful that Evanston's CDBG program continues to play such an important role in that partnership. Their hotline number is 1-877-718-1868. She thanked the Committee. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how the information is disseminated to the community. Ms. Singer replied that they are going to be in all the buses. Both hospitals know about them, clinics know about them, the police department and ill different kinds of organizations know about them. They do a lot of speaking in churches with faith based groups. They have been asked this year to help kick off some campaigns for United Way, so they speak to a lot of people about their services that way and a tremendous variety of ways people know about them and they've been in the community for a very long time. Aid. Rainey asked about the off -site transitional housing shelter program, site has been concerned about how that housing is chosen. Ms. Papirov responded that they have six apartments in Urban Equity, the same laundry, all in close proximity to each other, which allows the women to provide support to each other. The organization pays all of the rent. The clients are to contribute 30% of their adjusted gross income. Everybody has the same formula. If they're late, a late fee is implemented. Aid. Rainey thanked them for their presentation and all their good work. She asked that they give the phone number one more time. VII. MUSIC INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO — TAKING MUSIC TO SENIORS Michele Fitzgerald, Director of Annual Fund and Grant Writer for Government Grants, introduced herself and Dr. Charles Haas, Conductor of the New Horizons Band, who will be bringing a face to one section of their project and giving a first-hand account of what the funding is actually doing. She thanked the Committee for having them and for their past support of their program. She provided approval minutes from their Board meeting, which was required in their grant proposal. She said she hopes that the Music Institute has touched their lives in some way in the City of Evanston. 'their two locations are at Chicago Avenue and Grove Street, which is «herethe on site part of this program takes place, and a new space on Dempster Street for their musical theater group which is an inclusion program, where they main stream at -risk youth and children who have psychological challenges with their regular kids. It's at 2020 Dempster, a little %vest of Dempster and Dodge. They project to serve almost 2,000 people with their program. They are asking for S7,500 this year, an increase over past funding. They serve about 2,000 seniors each year with this program at a cost of less than $10.00 a person, (less than the average cost of a concert ticket in this area). There are three components to the program: One is the live concerts which they take to the nursing homes, which will be explained further by Dr. Haas. Their money from this year's CDBG grant is mostly going to the program which Dr. Haas is working. The second part of the program is their daytime lecture series which takes place at their new facility at Chicago and Grove Street. Ms. Fitzgerald provided the brochure to the Committee for their review. This year they c are doing a concert and a lecture series based on the history of flight. They are going from Leonardo DiVinci to the first manned space flight. Last year, 1,480 people attended these Rousing a Community Development Act Corrvrittee Meetrig October 16, 2007 Page 12 lectures. They are in the dreariest month of the year which is January, and she has been at these lectures. People are flooding in the doors. It's a wonderful stimulation for them intellectually, socially and of course the power of music. It's a wonderful series. People are very enthusiastic. They come back year after year. This year again, graciously, Rick Kogan of the Chicago Tribune will be their moderator for their series. The third component of the grant proposal is that they deeply discount their prices of their classes for seniors and they offer financial aid to those who qualify. She turned the podium over to Dr. Haas, who will explain the component of the program which provides concerts at Evanston area nursing homes. Aid. Rainey said that the brochure came in the mail today. Ms. Fitzgerald said that is very much how they reach people to let them know about the program. Aid. Rainey asked if it went to every address. Ms. Fitzgerald replied that she didn't think they could afford to do that but they have an expanded website this year. They have N•cry much an organically grown list. They use only one exchange list. Everyone else has come to them asking far this brochure or they have students at their school, or are donors. They welcome people who can sign up at their website or stop in at one of their facilities. Dr. Haas stated that the Music Institute has as its motto, "Learning for Life". To that they might add, "Lifelong Learning" because they offer programs for children and adults. The group with which he works, the New Horizons Band, is a program that is modeled on the American School band concept. In their case they modify to reflect the interests and the learning styles of senior adults. They offer instruction in both small and large group settings and they accommodate a large variety of skill levels, so they have people joining them who have never played an instrument before, and some who they affectionately refer to as re -treads who had played when they were in school and have put the instrument away for many years and now are coming back to it, and they have a number of people who have played all their lives, who find the instructional opportunities here worthwhile. Their participants range in age from 50 to 90, with the average age being in the mid -seventies. They have some recent research that indicates that one of the most successful approaches to maintaining our quality of life as we age is to remain mentally and physically active at complex activities. Playing a musical instrument, as many have done before, is one of the most complex activities that humans engage in. It's also highly enjoyable activity, a very socialized one and brings people together for a cooperative and non-competitive experience which is mutually benefiting in social ways as well as musical ones. In addition to the benefits to the participants of the program, they also reach out to the community, performing approximately thirty concerts each year, some of which are in their own concert hall at Chicago Avenue and Grove Street, but most are in nursing homes and senior citizen centers in the area. Their performances in these venues include primarily music that senior citizens can relate to. It's the music of their youth. It is swing music of the 1930's and 1940's, Broadway show scores, patriotic tunes. They get a very interesting and satisfying feedback from these audiences because whatever condition they are when they come into the room, they often find them smiling, toe -tapping and applauding and giving them encouraging comments. One of the most encouraging comments they often receive is "Can you come back tomorrow?" One of the very interesting experiences they've had is on occasions when they've performed for Alzheimer's patients, where they find that the music of their adolescence very often will trigger memories and lead to an increased animation and increased attention on their part. He then offered to answer questions about the program. Aid. Rainey asked Dr. Haas if he went to all the places listed on page 5 of the brochure. Dr. Haas responded that they did perform five programs in the last 12 months in Evanston. One Housirip & Comr wrmty Development Act Commnee h4ounp Octcbar 113. 2007 Pape 13 was at the Levy Center. Ms. Fitzgerald added that since the last reporting period they had already been at the Evanston Nursing Rehab Center on September I41h, and Dobson Plaza on September 2`i. Ms. Fitzgerald stated that they as an institution, because they are a school, they do very little in the summer, and the grant period starts in March and that is when they are winding down. September I" is when their organization gets into gear again. So most of the concerts will take place September through March. Aid. Rainey asked, when they go to places like Primm Tower, do they all have community rooms where it is big enough for them to perform? Dr. Haas replied that the facilities vary considerably. A lot of the programs they do are for the Rothschild Foundation. They do 18 concerts a year for them in the City of Chicago and they see a tremendous variety of facilities. Some have very small common areas, so they take a small group in for those performances. Others have large dining rooms or meeting rooms of various kinds, so they can take a large 40-piece ensemble into those. Aid. Rainey clarified that she is most concerned about Evanston locations. Dr. Haas replied that other than the Levy Center, most of them have been rather on the small size, but that's not a problem for them because they gear the size of the group to the facility. Aid. Rainey thanked them for their program and their presentation. She stated that she appreciates that they bring the arts to people who can't afford them or get to them. VIII. CONNECTIONS FOR THE HOMELESS -- SINGLE ADULT'SERVICESPROGRAMS Mr. Paul Selden, new Executive Director, introduced himself. He stated that the grant request this year is for something very specific. They are in need of additional monies for transportation passes and for medicine. The need for transportation passes is simply a function of what is happening down in Springfield and we don't know what the outcome of that will be but there are fairly certain that there will be a substantial increase so the money they are requesting is about a 30% increase over what they currently budget for transportation passes. The transportation passes are vital to the work that they do. The programs that they are submitting for are the three programs out of the Lake St. Church. They are the shelter, Hilda's Place, their Outreach Program, Entry Point and the Permanent Supportive Housing. They serve, through Entry Point around 250 individuals a year and through the shelter another 100, and there are 8-10 people that go through the permanent supportive housing. Of the 250 people in Entry Point, there are really only 100 that they work with on an ongoing basis, and these are the ones that they target for the transportation passes. The transportation passes are what allows them to accomplish the outcomes they are seeking to achieve, which is basically getting people in to see doctors or physicians or counselors, or get them into clinical programs, get them some additional income so for that they have to go to appointments at social security to get their identification and to sign up for benefits and things like that and then finally for housing. All of their programs are built around these three basic outcomes of housing stability, personal stability and a kind of economic stability. I'hc transportation is a key component of helping people to achieve those ends. The medicine is a different issue. Obviously the closing of the clinic at the Civic Center has been a blow to a lot of low income people but for the homeless in particular. He read one email that he received from a nurse which moved him to apply this year for funding for this: "The last I0 days of August were unbelievable with respect to Walgrcen's. I've saved records of all my Walgreen's bills since I started in November 2004, and none has been like this one. I have a bill totaling $891.91. That's the bad news. The reason for this is that two of these Housing & Cornmunrty Devebpment Ad Commlttoa Meeting October 16. 2007 Page 14 people have congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. One client had the rug pulled out from under him and is not being covered by Medicaid any more or Evanston Hospital I'hannacy. IIis inhaler, alone which helps keep him alive, is S289.00. Without it he would he hospitalized. Audrey, (one of their case managers), is working on getting him out of the ENI1 system. The other client has an inhaler ol'S210.00 and even with the inhaler he ended up in the hospital after passing out in the dining room. I Ie is now hooked up with Heartland Health Outreach and will get future medication through them or through Stroger. The third client has grand mal seizures and his depakote costs S 169.99. I am working on getting him in at the ENH clinic. He did see the neurologist there but they did not pay for the depakote." Mr. Selden explained that these are just typical conditions that they see at the shelter all of the time. Aid. Rainey said that he prefaced that letter with the problem being related to the closing of the Evanston Health Program. She asked how things would have been different had that program still been operating. She asked if the clinic would have paid for those medications. Mr. Selden responded that Aid. Rainey, in fact, was right. The medications, no they would not have paid for. There are other procedures and things that they used to bet through the clinic but now they pay for. Largely x-rays and things of that sort for people particularly who have pulmonary problems. Aid. Rainey said that the clinic did not do those things. Mr. Selden said that he believed the clinic did do x-rays. Aid. Rainey said she did not think so. She asked if they were using St. Francis Hospital. He said the do, but they find them somewhat even more difficult than ENH. He said this gives a negative view of ENH, but they actually have a very good relationship with ENH and are able, increasingly, to get people into the clinic. Once they're in the clinic, they get very good care. It does take some time, however, to get them into the clinic. Aid. Rainey asked if it is the same for St. Francis. Mr. Selden said yes, the same goes for St. Francis, but once you're in, you're on track. But the problem here is really one of the medications. This summer took them by surprise this summer. The severity of conditions they've been seeing is much more now. He doesn't know why, but it is a reality. They normally budgct at $8,000.00 a year for medications for clients, but they're trying to get an additional S4,000 simply to get them up to what looks like will be a needed close to S1,000 a month. He said he could give a rundown on the rest of the agency, but this request is very specific to these two things. Aid. Rainey said it is an excellent way to apply for funds. It makes it easy for the Committee to focus in on that need and, people have to get around and transportation is more and more expensive, and CTA bus service will possibly be eliminated in Evanston. She said that we will all have to get together and if we do have a lobbying effort, his organization will be there. Mr. Selden said yes, they absolutely will be there. Aid. Rainey asked if the clients mentioned in the letter have an address at the shelter. Mr. Selden responded that yes, they do. She asked one point do they become eligible as Evanston residents to apply for Evanston Township assistance. Mr. Selden said that he doesn't think they ever do. He said he believes that some of their family clients do. Aid, Rainey said that families are not eligible for this type of assistance. I is asked which type of benefits she was talking about. She explained that she was talking about income and housing, and medical benefits that Evanston Township provides to all township clients and it appears from the medical, unlimited. She asked him to please find out if his clients arc applying for township assistance when they're eligible. I le said he knows flint they do apply, but not sure when in 11.E J Housing & Communlry Development Act C. an tlm Meeting Papa 1d Oclaber ta. 2W? the process, they du. She: asked that he find out wholher they applying, when they apply and what happens afler they apply. Arc they being uccepted and if they're being rejected, she'd like to know why. Mr. Selden said he will get t(te answers to these questions to her. Aid. Rainey thanked him and said they do great work. IX. MEALS AT 110ti1E — FOOL} FOR SENIORS AND PE011E WITH UI S"I BILI PIES Ms. Patricia Carlson of Meals at Home, PO Box 279, Wilmette, It. 60091, introduced herself' and thanked the Committee for their consideration of their request for funds. Ms. Carlson explained that Meals at Home delivers meals to the homes of seniors and other adults with disabilities. Their service area is Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, East Glenview and East Northfield. In the last 4 years, 75% of their clients have lived in Evanston. In the last 4 years they have delivered about 145,000 meals. They deliver meals on 35 routes every week. Clients choose their delivery days. Some clients receive food 6 days a week, many others are on a 3 or 5 day schedule. They will use CDBG funds to help pay for food for low income Evanston clients. Their meals are delivered by volunteers at lunch time Monday through Saturday, including holidays. One delivery consists of 2 meals, lunch and dinner. There are 2 containers. One of them has hot food, usually meat, potatoes and vegetables. The other container has cold food including 2 beverages, a sandwich, a garden salad, fruit, Jell-O, an extra slice of bread and a dessert. They provide food for general and special diets such as cardiac, diabetic, mechanical chopped, pureed, gastric retlux, salt -free, gluten -free and renal. Most of these meals are prepared in the kitchens of Evanston Hospital and St. Francis Hospital. The kitchen of Three Crowns Park prepares about 5% of their food. They added a new Dilly's route in May. Brian Newkirk, the owner of Dilly's Cafe, donates food for 8 Meals at Home clients on Thursdays. These clients were: the winners of their Jilly's drawing. From January to May they offer their seasonal Captain Nemo's soup and sandwich program to all clients. Concerning outcomes, they verify that they will contact within 3 business days anyone who leaves them a message or has been referred to them. Their client committee conducts a client survey every year. The results of last year's survey were as follows: 70% of their clients found that the taste of the food was satisfactory or very satisfactory. The other choices were poor or fair. 72% said the amount of food was satisfactory or very satisfactory. 99% said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the timely delivery of food. As part of their new strategic plan, they are revising their client survey and adding a volunteer surrey to improve their outcome data. All of these meals are personally delivered to their clients by their hard- working volunteers who are the eyes and ears of heals at Home. If a volunteer notices a change in a client's health or well-being, that volunteer will contact their staff and then they may contact the client or the client's family, friends or agencies when appropriate. A few weeks ago one of their volunteers was delivering meals to a new client in northwest Evanston. The client did not respond to the bell or to knocking. Fortunately the door was open. The volunteer went inside and found the client sitting in a chair in the living roam. The client was not able to get up and told the driver that he had been stuck in the chair over night and for almost 24 hours. The volunteer called the :deals at I come office, They immediately contacted the gentleman's family who rushed to his home. Apparently Ile had had a small heart attack. He was taken to the: hospital where he had quadruple bN?ass surgery sonic weeks later. Over the course of their 39 year history, they have had numerous events like this, Ms. Carlson thanked the Committee, Aid. Rainey thanked Ms. Carlson and her volunteers far all their fiord work. NORTH SHORE SENIOR SERVICES — CeLVE J►I,•fN'.1C;1:M1;N'1`.5'l:Rl'iCi:ES POR L(71{! 1NCOM SEN101M Housing & Commnity Development Ad Committee Meeting Pape Is Octobar 16, 2007 Ms. Sandi Johnson, Executive Director of North Shore Senior Centers, Northfield, IL. She introduced Pam Thomas, the Director of the Evanstoa'Skokie Valley office located at 840 Dodge, phone 847-864-3721. Website: %1;ww.nssc.org. On website, in addition to a description of services one will find how he/she can volunteer, join the Senior Center, or contribute funds. They appreciate all of the above. Their goal is to meet the needs of their elderly clients by providing case management in a timely manor and by providing services to keep seniors in their home environment. The average age of their clients is 77. The majority of their clients are very frail women. As the years go by they see that more of their clients have serious cognitive impairments, which is not unusual because as people live longer they have a higher chance of succumbing to Alzheimer's disease. The clients' needs, as they live longer, are more complex. As a result of the funding which they've received in the past through the CDBG they've been able to provide the in -home outreach, they've been able to be at the Levy Center, the Fleetwood Jourdain nutrition site and Ebenezer Primm. They have wellness programs at all four of the senior buildings in Evanston, which they are proud of They have raised private monies to support their staff members who provide these programs. In addition to the government funding that they receive for their Evanston/Skokie Valley office for the current year, they must raise S 168,000 to support their programs in Evanston and Skokie Valley from private individuals as well as from corporations and foundations. She gave the floor to Pam Thomas to discuss the real services they provide. Ms. Thomas said she appreciates the opportunity to talk with the Committee again. It is her 5'h or Wh year before the Committee. She said that CDBG funding has paid for supporting one of their case managers: Rose Price. In addition to having a caseload of Evanston clients, she has scheduled time at the Levy Center, Primm Tower and Fleetwood Jourdain. This allows her to develop ongoing relationships with clients to be there so someone can come and see her without having to feel like it's a crisis. Many people wait until the last minute when things are really bad before they ask for help, but if they're at the Levy Center anyway and Rose is there and they get to know her, they're much more likely to seek help from her. Their goal is for Rose to be really well known in the community and it seems to be working. She seems to know a lot ofpeople. She is a wonderful employee. She's dedicated and conscientious. She's compassionate with the clients. She knows entitlements and community resources and she's really good at all the pharmaceutical programs that are confusing. They do have a lot of other things they do besides having Rose out in the community. They provide many programs and services: special programs for caregivers. One of their employees has the title of Caregiver Specialist. They have a class called "Powerful Tools for Caregivers" that is offered twice a year and they have an ongoing support group that meets at their office for persons who are caregivers for their spouses. They also have a low vision support group that meets monthly at the North Shore Retirement Hotel. They've been in existence a long time and the group has meant a lot to members. They have a support group for grandparents raising grandchildren that meets monthly at the Levy Center. They also have monthly wellness programs at the four subsidized buildings and weekly fitness classes. The North Shore Senior Center brings in outside money to pay for a lot of these additional things. The staff of Evanston does not earn their own keep. They've never broken even in Evanston. When the North Shore Senior Center Board decided to come into the Evanston area, they did so knowing that this would never be a location where they could break even and that they were going to have to continually End ways to support financially what is done there. In addition to Rose they have 19 other case managers who are also doing very high quality work and they have people who have very good referral information on a surprising range of subjects people call about. This year they also participated in the Farmers' Market Nutrition Program and they distributed 900 coupon books to eligible seniors. The coupons, which are to be used at the area Farmers' Markets until the end of October, represented almost S18,000 in increased buying power for the seniors who - -_'•may'-�-:sz�,.�c.�t��--:�:t�; Howing d Cormmnity Development Act Comrt+u" MmUnp 0doaer 19. 2001' Pape !7 got the book as well as that same amount in potentially increased revenues for the vendors of the Farmers' Market. The fact that it is to be used for fresh produce, obviously, hearing about trying to teach people good eating habits, it's great to reinforce that with the seniors. As an example of something Rose would work on, there is a client who is a woman in her early 80's, in poor health, her activities are especially limited because of heart and respiratory conditions that make her tired very quickly. She needs to use a nebulizer between one activity and the next (which is also very expensive). She first met with Rose at the Levy Center because she was having difficulty paying for prescription drugs. Rose reviewed her entire situation through Benefits Eligibility Checkup, where you can enter data about a person and it will tell you what kind of benefits they're eligible for and it also provides the applications. Rose made sure she knew everything the woman was eligible for. She was already in Medicare Part D and had qualified for Illinois Cares RX but it turned out that there had been a mistake made on the part of the Medicare fart D provider and she was being charged too high a co -pay on all of her drugs. So Rose went to bat for her and got the additional amount refunded to her which amounted to well over S100.00. Rose also helped her to fill out applications for anything else she was entitled to which included Medicaid and Qualified Medical Beneficiary, She has assessed her eligibility for the Community Care program and now she's receiving housekeeping and personal care services through that program. Since last year she has an emergency home response system, which now Community Care program recipients can qualify for at no charge. It used to cost a monthly fee and it used to be called Lifeline. It allows seniors to stay safely in their homes, which is what most people want to do. Rose continues to monitor this lady on a monthly basis to make sure things are going well. She thanked the Committee for their support over the years, stating that their clients who are very frail and often homebound, are not very visible, but their needs are very real. Aid. Rainey thanked Ms. Thomas and Ms. Johnson for their work and expressed the Committee's appreciation for their work, mentioning that their agency works very closely with Nancy Flowers of the Human Services Dept, of the City. Ms. Thomas said that Evanston is a very good place to ,grow old with all the great programs and services. All the senior provider agencies work very well together. XI. CAREPOINT ADULT, CHILD & FAMILY ASSOC. — COMMUNITY UNITYI Mr. Vince Gillon, Executive Director of Carepoint Adult, Child & Family Association, introduced himself and Louis Vega and Ray Lee, outreach workers, Paris Blake, youth outreach worker. Their address is 113 Custer, Evanston, IL 60202. Their phone number is 847-425-3606, fax 847-425-3607. Cells: 773-407-9030 and 312-307-1088 and the website is www. Carepointoutreach.org., email address is carepointC&ameritech.net. Mr. Gillon explained that Carepoint was originally a volunteer based agency. Thcy got incorporated in the year 2000. They have a satellite office on the west side and with the help of Commissioner Suffredin and Jan Schakowsky they found a site on the south side of Evanston in what used to be the Milk Jug. They have turned that into one of their main offices. They may expand at some point. They have had tremendous growth. When they first staved out they did several focus groups in the community to loop at the issues. He was coordinator of the substance abuse program at Hilda's Place. They started it together. He was instrumental in the founding of BE -HIV in the first month. Ile has been working in the community for a long time. Carepoint has developed into a full service agency with a big emphasis on crisis case management because for many of the people they see they arc "the last house in the block." They do a lot of work with vets. They support the vets by offering HIV, Hepatitis C and some STD testing and recently they were approved to do Iepatitis A and B vaccinations. They also do prostate screening. Ail services are free. Ile distributed fliers listing their services: dousing & Community tavelopment Act Cann Ma Meeting October 16, 2007 PeQe I transportation assistance. housing assistance, and the medical tests mentioned, and they make referrals in the northern suburbs. They have a good connection with Project Access. They do risk reduction in the community. They have a mobile team that goes out. They identify hot spots in the community and offer their services on the van. Originally he was in the addictions field with Chicago Lakeshore I lospital, where he developed and ran the addictions program for about twelve years. Recently he has seen an increase in interventions with families who cannot afford insurance. The editor of the Board of The Defender did an article on their organization. They have been honored by the NAACP, they received the Red Ribbon award from the Department of Public Health and numerous other awards. They are asking; for the grant to continue their work but also as a matter of urgency, since the Evanston Health Department shut down they have seen a dramatic increase in their clients. They do not have the capacity to provide in the increase in services demanded. The HIV walk-in testing; went from 7 a day to 15 or 16 a day. The plan was to ask Cook County to pick up the testing that the City of Evanston was no longer doing;, which was to take place in the basement of the Skokie courthouse. He has heard that the County has no intention of picking up the HIV/STD testing service, and their organization is doing the testing. Most people would not want to go through the security cameras, etc. to go to the basement of the Skokie courthouse to get an HIV/STD test. They have a youth coordinator, Rny Lee, who wants to continue working with high risk populations. ex -offenders. They do emergency and also prevention case management. They work with people on the street by developing a relationship with the youth. They make role call at the police department to let the police know who they are. The police quite often send people to them. Anyone Evanston resident who comes in their office can get treatment without insurance. They work at the soup kitchen at the 2°d Baptist Church shelter on Tuesday. They have a team who offers case management, free HIV/STD testing;. They have a nurse that takes vitals, who lets them know if someone needs to be in the emergency room. These are the services they are asking for funding for. This year they have seen many youth get killed. He believes that ail the deaths do not have to happen. He believes that if they had a more aggressive team out on the street they might be able to reach some of these youth. It is important to go to them. They will not come to the organization. The outreach model and the peer model are the most attractive. They have done a lot of work with community based agencies. They want to increase that. They also have worked with the faith based community this year. They participate in the Spiritual Walk. 3 weeks ago Dr. Whitaker, the head of the Illinois Department of Health who just resigned, came to their office. They did testing on the van. His predecessor is going; to go out on the van also. They also have an HIV positive support group that meets once a week. There is still a lot of stigma that goes along with HIV. Last year they raised some funds, but they need CDBG fund support this year. Aid. Rainey asked what happened to BE- i IIV. Mr. Gillon replied that it has become a Chicago based agency. They have an office in Evanston on Ridge but they do not offer testing in Evanston. Aid. Rainey asked how many people were tested at Evanston's Health Dept. Mr. Gillon replied the Citv tested one hour a week and that it wasn't very many. Ile said they test every day. Sonic of the people that are coming to Carepoint would have conic to the City. They test 25 to 30 people a week from Evanston. At the Shelter, they test more, Mr. Marcus Rend, Program Coordinator said that many of the hard to reach clients do not come to the health department. They were seeing the well-to-do client who had an encounter the night before from the City's Health Dept. The others from Evanston come for treatment, food, shelter and identification, especially for ex -offenders. They're going; to start their testing program, offering it weekly, at the barber shops, if they get permission and at BooCoo also, in their van. It has been important for them to have regular hours and to be at regular places at regular times, even when they're doing; outreach so that people know they'll be there. That is Housing b Commuruty Development Act Corrmittae Meetug October 16, 2001 Page 10 where word of mouth comes in. They do the big events too, but it is important in the community to know that Ray will be at Sam's Barbers shop every Saturday and they can get a test, Thcre used to be a service offered at Northwestern that no longer exists, that provided testing every`Tuesday night by BE -I IiV. They get some Northwestern students. They have started a program with students from the Kellogg School of Business that are working with them for 4 months on special projects to increase opportunities between the University and Carepoint. They are also going to try to utilize their evaluation department. Aid. Rainey said that when BE-IIIV was testing at Northwestern, the City was paying for it. Northwestern was not contributing to that program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked which agencies they collaborate with. Mr. Gillon responded that they work with BE-IIIV, Hilda's Place, PEER Services, the hospitals, the Police Department, the African American Health Ministries, the faith based community (Rev. Curry), the Evanston Youth initiative, CEDA Neighbors at Work and the Public Aid office. Recently, Rep Ramos has given their name to the Workforce Development Board, where they did training. Most agencies know about Carepoint. At first, no one wanted to talk about HIV prevention. Mr. Gillon said lie is getting more calls from families of as risk youth, that the word is out about their organization and that many people know who he is. Mr. Gillon added that every year they employ three or four youth from the city's summer youth employment project to work with them. The youth, from Haven and ETI IS, developed an ex -offender resource guide that the health department used. Aid. Rainey thanked them for their presentation, XIL H.E. LANE CENTER FOR POSITIVE CHANGE -- FRESH STAR WIRSTBASE EX - OFFENDER & HOAIELESS PROGRAM John Barrier Williams, Executive Director, thanked the Committee for previous support and for considering their organization for the next fiscal year. They arc located at 944 Elmwood Avenue, the corner of Lee and Elmwood, Io«'er level of the Fisher Church. The Fresh Start, First Base Program was formed in 2002. Both ex -offenders and homeless people have similar employment and housing needs. In October of 2006 they became incorporated. They have not gotten 501(c) filing status yet. Vincent Gillon has agreed to act as their fiscal agent in the interim. They do expect to get the 501(c) status soon. They are working with the Safer Foundation and the Evanston Community Foundation. They have received support from other faith based organizations: First United Methodist, Friends Meeting House, Reba Place Development Corporation and the Evanston Community Development Association. They also receive funding from the Evanston Shelter program. They had a fund raiser at Tabernacle Baptist Church which 13 churches attended. People from all over south Evanston attended. They made contact %vith some warehouses owners who are willing to help them. Various landlords have been helpful to their organization and they utilize the affordable housing program. They assist people having problems paying their utility hills and those in need of IDs and security deposits. Mr. Williams introduced Michelle Smith, Vice Treasurer of the Board. Ms, Smith thanked the Committee for the opportunity to speak to them. She came to Evanston approximately four year ago. When she was looking for Mousing, assistance and schools, Rev. Lane's organization was recommended. She was honored when he asked her to be part of the board because she knows they are helping people, and she believes that it is crucial to keep the organization going. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Banter Williams how many of the participants of his program are eligible and have applied for Evanston general assistance. Mr. Barrier Williams agreed to provide the Committee with that information, Aid. Rainey thanked Mr. Barrier Williams for all his hard work. XIII. )E;VANSTON COtiINMUNITY DEFENDER -LEGAL & SOCIAL WORK Mousing & Communlly Development Act Committee Meeting October 1 e. 2001 Pape 20 Mr. Victor Grimm, Director, introduced himselfand Bill Parks, Chair, Bob Roy, Executive Director, Eldashon Nicks, Director of Social Services and Molly Hayward, one -person administrative staff. They are located at 828 Davis, Evanston, across from the parking garage, on the third floor in Room 304. They are consciously in that location because it is near public transportation points and close to other social service agencies such as Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago, Peer Services, Youth Job Center and the Employment Security Office. He said the organization is very unique in that it combines the provision of legal services with the provision of social services. It is important because the people that are their clients are probably among the most at -risk population in terms of anti -social behavior. They are kids who have gotten into trouble with the law or in schools as a disciplinary problem. The problems they exhibit are often symptoms of other issues, for example, a dysfunctional family, mental health issues, the burdens of poverty and various other problems, It is important to immediately integrate the legal representation with providing social services. In providing those social services it is very important, especially to the directors of the organization, is that they leverage off of the other community social services available, rather than try to duplicate them. One of their goals is to utilize social services such as Family Focus, Y.O.U. and other appropriate services to help their clients turn their lives around. He asked Bob Roy to expand and answer questions. Mr. Roy said the three B's of presentation are, "Be brief, be brilliant and be gone." Ile said he would try to he brier. They are a community based organization that likes to recognize that they are part of a bigger system, and that they have a lot of community partners and they depend upon them to help their clients before, during and after they come to them to ask for help. They use the small d in talking about defender in that they defend peoples' interests and that can be in a court room, an IEP meeting, a school where a child may be offered special education services and he might have a parent who is resisting. The office is easy to get to. They are a free-standing not for profit. People can participate by volunteering or contributing. He introduced Jordan Davis, who is on their Board of Directors and is a Kellogg Board Fellow. They participate in the Kellogg Board program. He will be with them for the next year. Ile introduced Roger Pascal, who is also a Director, a long time resident of Evanston and a great supporter of their office. He was teaching tonight at Northwestem and that's why he just came in. The areas they work in primarily are adult criminal court, the juvenile justice and welfare system which includes juvenile delinquency court and special education and discipline matters in local schools. They try to take advantage of the fact that people come to them and take that as an opportunity to try to get them to transition into another stage of their lives. The Youth Initiative Study talks about hard to reach and disengaged kids. That is who they deal with. 'they have to go where they are and meet them where they're at. They serve a high population of minority and the lowest income households in the Cite of Evanston. A legal and social work service agency would not normally have a goal to increase or to have their clients maintain or increase their school attendance. They have worked hard to achieve that goal this year. They shot for 70% but have attained 88% of their clients have either maintained or increased their school attendance. They were involved in a case called lnray I iawk, which dealt with the issue of DCFS's right to reject children over the ate of 12 that were involved in delinquency court. They, together with the Illinois State Public Defender's Office, challenged the constitutionality of that statute, it was taken to the Supreme Court, where they lost. As a result of that it became a legislative issue and is recently that age has been raised 2 years so that now children 14 and younger are eligible for DCFS services. They cannot be excluded by DCFS by their age and their involvement with the delinquency system. Regarding the social work service program, there is a photo in the hallway showing an evidence technician looking at a = gun that's on the ground. Surrounding the gun is a baseball cap and a baseball next to it, He said he walks by it all the time and he thinks that one of the problems in the community is that Hmairg A Community Development Act Committee Mftbrq October 16. 2007 Pape 21 there is a lot of increased violence and conflict between people who you would think ought to be brethren instead of enemies. fie believes the kind of program they have put together is the kind of intervention program that is needed to attack situations where kids make bad choices; to give them alternatives to participate in an aggression replacement training or in an after school college/career counseling program; to have someone go out and meet them where they're at, whether it is in their homes, or at their school and to stay on them about making better choices. They have to have other options, He believes they are able to do that through outreach and the program that they run at their office, but they are just a part of the network. One of the things they are trying to improve is not only how they network, but the youth - serving agencies network together because it is very challenging on funding; and putting together efforts. In the material they talk about a project at Haven School where they are involved developing a mediation process there. Even with a good, willing collaborative partner, to put something together in a school curriculum is very difficult at best. They have come up with a strategy to assure it will happen and how to involve a number of other people. They've been networking with the Police Department, Family Focus and Y.O.U., and a few community residents who are very interested in restorative justice. 7ltey took the initiative to create the restorative justice committee. He provided literature regarding the effort and those involved. He explained that restorative justice is a community's tool. Sometimes what happens in court is not always the best verdict. Sometimes guilty people go free and sometimes innocent people are found guilty. It becomes an adversary process. Restorative justice is an effort to bring; the community into resolving situations so that you get a better outcome by participating in mediation. This concept has a number of tools. What Frank Kaminski is doing at the I ligh School in setting up peer juries is a tool of restorative justice, as what they are in what they're doing in setting up mediation circles at Haven is also a tool of restorative justice. The most important thing is that they all work together -- the Police Department is doing mediation circles. Many kids are being diverted from court now because they have a different situation in juvenile court. It is a good tool. Mr. Roy concluded that he is thankful to the Hoard of Directors for trying to develop ideas for new direction but also in fund raising. To date, in their individual campaign that began in August, they have raised about S7,000. They have about S 18,500 in new resources from small foundations and corporate sources. They need every dime of it because some of the money they got from their collaboration with Y.O.U. has gone away because the state has not reissued the RFP. In December, 2006 they did a community forum with Carepoint, Rev. Williams' group and some other agencies at Family Focus. A lady came from the Dept. of Security and some social service agencies to explain to the people how their criminal histories affect their employability and their eligibility for public benefits and how they can do something today that will put an indelible stain on an otherwise tine resume. There are about 60 professions that require licenses and with some of things that are happening with kids they will have trouble obtaining a license to be a barber or a plumber, for example. Since that time they have had a constant influx of inquiries about ho%v they can help the. Unfortunately, only about 10% of the people they see on those issues are able to do anything about their histories. They try to provide them with alternative strategies to deal with their employment situation. Mr. Roy has been talking with Sol Anderson from the City, who is on the Restorative Justice Committee about how to engage employers in the city either to accept a person for employment knowing full well what their history is and trying; to create an employment certification program, where if a certain amount of time passes after a person is involved in the court system and they have gone through a training like they might have gone through at the Howard area community center, that they could get a certificate they could show and employer that these steps have been taken and therefore make them more employable. That employment is the thing that gets Housirp & Comrnuruty Deveiop"M Act Committee kleeWV Pape 22 October 18, 2007 them to be part of the tax base and not the tax drag on the community. He thanked the committee for their support and offered to answer any questions. Aid. Rainey thanked Nfr. Roy for his agency's hard work. She commented that their program is one of the longest running. Years ago, they were not successful in fund raising outside of CDBG and now they are. Mr. Roy commented that their agency is not just a defense function. Mr. Roy distributed material about participating in the restorative justice program for anyone that is interested, including attorneys who want to do the service pro bono. Their phone number is 847492-1410, email address is ecdo82R(ci carthlink.net. They will have a website shortly, thanks to Molly and Jordan. The assistance of Molly's brother-in-law also helped. XIV. LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION OF 1NIETROPOLITAN CHICAGO—LEGAL SERVICES Mr. Bill Kolen, Supervising Attorney, of the Evanston office of LAFMC, thanked the Committee for being there to listen to him tell about their agency. They continue to be the primary free legal service provider to Evanston residents. They do not do any criminal work. There is no duplication of services with anything that Bob Roy and the Evanston Community Defender does. The focus of their practice is in the areas of domestic violence, housing including home ownership and predatory lending, consumer law and bankruptcy collection and hospital collection and the area of public benefits. Their Executive Director, Sheldon Rudeman who had been the director of Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago, retired this summer after 30 years. The new Exec. Director, Diana White had been their Deputy Director for 10 years. The new Deputy Director will be Jack Locke, who is a long time Evanston resident. He is a great addition to their program. Ms. White is initiating a new strategic planning operation as a first step in her new role. fie is confident that their affiliation with the larger organization is only good for Evanston's low income residents. They have increased their ability to provide high quality legal assistance to Evanston residents by becoming part of the larger agency. They have several new projects, agency wide, including an expungemcnt project. There are many issues that they work together with other agencies on. They have a pension rights program that they have received funding for. They have been hired and now have a pro se help desk that they staff at the federal and bankruptcy courts. The agency that they are a part of is becoming a leading part of the delivery of legal services throughout the county. In the last month they have a new attorney assigned to their office, giving him a staff of four attorneys, the largest staff he's had in 17 years, and lie is confident that they will be able to meet the needs of the low income for civil legal services in Evanston. Aid. Rainey asked if they deal with mortgage fraud issues and what the process is. Mr. Kolen replied that they have a specialized unit that works out of the downtown office called HOPP, Home Ownership Preservation Project, who are experts, Each of the attorneys in his office has now litigated foreclosure and predatory lending cases. They often use the resources of the experts downtown as co -counsel or for consultative purposes. Ed Monahan, of the Evanston office, has participated in many forums in Evanston, including; the recent one across from the high school. He came to one that the city put on. They are available both to represent home owners who are at risk of losing their homes for «-hatever reason, whether from predatory lending; or other sources of fraud, and they have: the capacity to provide high quality services. The 3 staff attorneys in the HOPP program are probably the state-wide experts in this area, or amongst them. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how many cases they handle out of the Evanston office every year. Mr. Kolen responded that between 2,000 and 2,500 clients out of 500 or 600 are from Housing & Carrrnanity Development Act Conmittae Meeting Pago 21 October 16. 2007 Evanston. Each case handler has approximately 50 open cases except for the newest attorney, who has about 25.Of those, of his case load, about 30 cases that he is litigating, probably G or 7 are for Evanston residents. They cannot charge the clients any fees and they can not collect any fees because their federal funding prohibits them from doing that. The only fees they can collect are as sanctions. They can't do civil rights cases and they can't collect fees in social security cases. They used to get attorney's fees as an agency in the 1480's. In the mid -nineties congress prohibited them from collecting fees. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked, with foreclosures increasing 50% this year, how much has their case load increased in that area. Mr. Kolen said a lot of people request help and they can only give information about the process. But the reality is there is no legal defense for people who cannot afford their mortgages. They do not have a large caseload out of his office, but he did litigate one out of his office to a conclusion, in which he saved an Evanston resident of 50 years, her house. They provide advice through the whole foreclosure process including counseling clients about what is going to happen. If they have no alternatives, if bankruptcy is not going to save their house, they don't have the ability to pay the mortgage and there are no predatory lending defenses available, they will walk them through the process and make sure they understand their rights to sell the home, which may be their best alternative. He said he will never say to a client. if you have any equity in your house let it go to a judicial sale, because that is never going to be as good for them as if they can sell their house. People often get panic struck because when confronted with foreclosure, don't know what they can do and don't realize they can sell it and get a lot of the equity out of the house. They have a lot of legal education material that they distribute to clients in pre -foreclosure so they understand the risks and they are happy to participate in educational forums. They want to make sure the people are not walking away from their homes or losing equity if they don't have to. Aid. Rainey asked what services he provides in the area of bankruptcy and for a description of the pension rights project. Mr. Kolen replied that they handle about 50 Chapter 7 bankruptcies a year. In addition to that they have the ability to Chapter 13, often done by a bankruptcy specialist out of the downtown Chicago office, but one of the attorneys, Carl Flanagan, in the Evanston office, is probably the most knowledgeable attorney in their agency, aside from the expert downtown and handles the most bankruptcies. For the pension rights project they got a grant from the Midwest (or National) Pension Rights to provide pension counseling to people who are having trouble accessing their pension and it is staffed out of their downtown Chicago office. Aid. Rainey asked about landlord -tenant issues. Mr. Kolen said they continue to provide large services to Evanston residents' private housing, section 8, housing voucher holders, conditions problems, issues with the risk of lockout, though that problem has subsided. People who are faced with evictions come tot their office all the time. if they are private housing there's not a lot they can do, but the issue of making sure people understand their rights and what they can do in the eviction process, and they do a lot of subsidized housing work, making sure that people %ti•ho do have subsidized housing, that those rights are protected. Aid. Rainey asked if he noticed an increase in that kind of caseload since their Department of Human Relations has been downsized. AIr. Kolen said he had not. Aid. Rainey thanked him. XV. GEMARIAH BOROUGH — SUMMER VIDEO CAMP Ms. Borough introduced herself and said she has her own production company, Ca'Boy Productions. Ms. Borough explained that this is a new project that is in conjunction with its •tag � - - � .-- ,. '�'Y- _ a Housfog & Community Development Act Commttee Meeting October 18, 2007 Page 24 Ca'Boy but not connected to it. It was inspired when she worked with the Summer Youth Employment program. Several of her participants asked her if they were going to have the video project again, but they are not. She found that in video, the participants didn't have any background in video production, but they had a lot of fun during the two summers they participated. She would like to have 10 low income students come to the program, free of charge, who were not picked at the Summer Youth Employment Program, who would not otherwise have an opportunity to do anything during the summer, to give them the opportunity to learn what office work is, what production work is. She has set it out by week. They would start out with the office work and orientation, get to know each other, how to build a team and how to work together, the things it takes, character etc., and then start into what it is to work in a video production office with print production, all of the details that go into the idea that they want to put on video and learn how to write script, which entails a lot about English. In order to use slang, you really need to know correct English first. Then you can divert from that. Learning about sets and costumes; how to construct them, what costumes to use in a particular genre, how to present the idea. The last few weeks they'll do learning cameras, sound, lighting, editing and how to put the whole thing together. She said she believes that she has the practical skills to teach this. She has a degree in home economics, remodeling background, building codes and she was just elected to the Board at Evanston Community Media Center, this last week. She has that support and volunteer group to draw upon. She has someone specifically in mind to hire to help in those areas, who has background in English and art and a teaching certificate. She would like that professional support for the project. Aid. Rainey asked how she would provide all the equipment required to do what she plans on doing, saying she has no question about her ability to do this in terms of her skills. But in terns of her financial resources, she is not sure. Ms. Borough said she has a lot of friends, four computers so office work is not a problem to teach. She has asked some of her friends for donations for some of the items needed. She has one mini digital camera but she would like to get at least a couple others that the participants can learn on throughout the summer. For teaming cameras sound and lighting, she has all the equipment from the Evanston Community Center to draw upon. Aid. Rainey asked if she is able to use that equipment with people who are not members and whether she would use their facility for editing. Ms. Borough replied that the computers she has would support editing and would not use the ECC computers. Aid. Rainey asked how she would find the participants. She wants them to come through the Youth Employment Program. She would choose those who probably are not chosen to work at other places. This money would give them free tuition to the program, The kids who are in the summer youth program are getting paid, but those students for this program are not the ones that are going to get lured. They would have less skill than those that are hired. The participants that she is targeting are mainly those that are going to be freshmen. The first year that she had it open she had about 40 freshmen come and there still were many who were willing to learn and gain the skills. That is the group she wants to reach. Aid Bernstein asked how many kids could be accommodated at the space at Hemenway Church. Ms. Borough replied that the new pastor at Hemenway Church is reevaluating the use of their space and she is looking for a place to do it. She is going to the school district to see ifshe can use a classroom at one of the schools. Aid. Bernstein asked what type of office work they would be doing to learn office skills. Ms. Borough said they would be doing filing, typing, some of the things that she has had to do on her own. She distributed brochures. These skills will be related to specific projects. They will learn how to file the different ways. She plans to take some field trips to a couple of different offices to see how people run their offices, because everyone has a different way to set up their files, etc. The teacher that she has will also be r Housing & Convnunily Development Act CorruTiaw Motnng ocbber 18.2007 Psg* 25 there to help them set up projects for that. She presented a plan: the first day, orientation and getting to know each other and the rules, and how they're ,going to go through the summer. The second day would be projects, learning what the business missions are, filing cabinets. They will learn what is in her office, the only production office she has. There will be typing, word processing, spreadsheets, going through all the different computer programs she has, graphics, etc. She will not introduce editing until they have had some camera experience, Aid. Rainey asked where her office is. Ms. Borough replied that her office is currently at Hemenway. Aid. Rainey said that it is very difficult to secure a classroom with liability. operations hours, etc. She asked how her office could be portable. Ms. Borough replied that most of her office is on wheels. She has 1/3 of the space at Hemenway. They don't have enough room for other activities. She pays S I001month for her space at Hemenway. Aid, Rainey thanked her and complimented her on the program. XVI. DISCUSSION Aid. Rainey asked Sarah Flax if she had any reports to share with the Committee. They still do not have official funding for the 2008109 fiscal year because Congress and the President have not passed funding bills. There is a lot of speculation on how to attach the HUD bills to the funding bills for the military and homeland security to get them signed. HUD is operating on a continuing resolution through November 16`s. Hopefully they won't be operating on a continuing resolution for a year, like they were this year. Aid. Rainey said she noticed that there were many discrepancies on the financial forms. She asked whether Ms. Flax would be asking for clarification on those. Ms. Flax said in the cases where she can get clarification, she will. One of the things she does, if someone gets funding, is have them prepare a current budget because, by the time they get to March, they know the status of their other grants and funding and create a specific budget that becomes what we track against. The scope ofservices is evaluated against that budget. She will continue to work on these issues. Aid. Bernstein thanked Ms. Flax for the sheet she distributed regarding each of the applicants, XVIL There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:47 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, October 23, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. -- Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Ald. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Bobbie Newman I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:13 p.m. Aid. Rainey explained that this is the second funding process meeting for the 2008-09 funding year. Aid. Rainey asked that the applicants introduce themselves and state their contact information including phone, website and address for those wishing to access their services, volunteer or send them money. II. INTERFAITH ACTION OF EVANSTON — IIOSPIT11 LITY CENTER JOB COUNSELOR Ms. Sue Murphy, Director, introduced herself and the Vice President. Interfaith Action is aimost entirely run by volunteers so they would love volunteers to contact them either to work in the soup kitchens or at the centers. Their phone number is 847-869-0370 and their email address is interfaithactionofevanston.org. Interfaith Action provides the opportunity for interfaith dialogue among our different faith communities and also provides food and shelter for the hungry and homeless. They have soup kitchens in Evanston every day except Friday. Three are run directly by them with teams and others are tun by different churches and synagogues that have their own teams. They have warming centers from the beginning of November until the end ofMarch that are in six different churches throughout the city, where people can go in the afternoon and they have the Hospitality Center for the Homeless Monday through Friday, 12 months of the year, from 7a.m. until l I a.m. The program they're asking for funding for is their job counseling program. It is run out of the hospitality center four mornings a week. She cited a few examples of what they do: they work with all of the people who have gone through Connections for the Homeless, whether it's Hilda's Place or Entry Point. They can all come and have breakfast. When it is determined by their case worker that the clients arc ready to work, the case worker at "Connections" gives them a referral, at which point they begin looking for work for that client. One of their clients is "Andrew." l to was a chef who shared an apartment until his roommate made him leave and locked the doors. He lost all his cooking tools which he needed to get a chef job. He lived at I lilda's Place and they provided him with the tools and a uniform. He got a job at a local catering company and he is still employed by them and he has his own apartment. It's been about a gear since he got that job. Not all of the people they work with are immediate successes. 100 of the people who stay with the program do find employment. That doesn't mean they ,get the job of their dreams, but they at least get a job. Not all of them keep their jobs. Housirg a C mdmn4 Dev "mwt na Committee Meeting October 23.200T Page 2 "Bob" was 22. He graduated from New Trier High School and had a good family and was a nice young man but got into drugs and alcohol and his family could not handle him any more so they wouldn't let him come home. He came in and out of the shelter. fie would live at Hilda's Place and he would work with them. He would get a job, get back with his group of friends and begin using drugs again, and be gone again. But he'd always come back. Eventually he came back and really seemed determined to work. Their job counselor helped him get a position at the Botanic Gardens and within a week he cut the tip of his finger off so he couldn't work and he hadn't been there long enough to get benefits and it was really distressing. While he was healing, he decided that the only thing that he could do would be to join the army. They thought that was not a bad idea because it would set him away from the environment there which was not good from him. He went to the recruiter. They were happy at first to have him but he couldn't get a clean drug test. They encouraged and worked with him for two months and finally he tested clean. He went into the army and a few weeks ago he called Ms. Murphy to tell her he is in Iraq and it's really difficult but it's made him grow up and he's doing really well. He is doing well with his parents. He came in once early in the summer and was able to stay away from his friends here. He also said that when he gets back he's going to go to college and he is lucky because he has a family who can help him go to college. He said the job counselor program was a stepping stone to help him find his own path. Ms. Murphy said that sums up what they really do at the program. You can't make someone be successful but you can help them along the way and hopefully they will become successful. To follow up with their clients they have a monthly dinner. It is a new program. They've been doing it for about 6 months. It is really hard to keep up with the homeless after they leave. Some of them don't want to be considered part of that old homeless program and some of them just move on. They invite people who arc currently working and housed to come back for dinner once a month and they also invite the people who still may be living at Hilda's Place or living on the streets but are working. Their hope is that they will come to them if they need help keeping their job, if they have questions about keeping their job, or just to encourage the people who are newly employed and don't have a place to live yet, so they can encourage others. The Vice President stated that there are a lot of worthy programs in Evanston and that they are serving the neediest people in Evanston. Through historical things as well as anything else, they share those responsibilities with Connections for the Homeless. "Connections' does certain things, but they don't do others. They don't provide food or the during -the -day kind of provision. They don't do things that "Connections" does. They don't have an overnight shelter. Together, they are the safety net for the neediest people in Evanston and for a long time the Churches themselves bore that burden. A requirement of being a good church was to provide this kind of service. But the churches have declining memberships over the last decades and it was one of the main reasons that they went interfaith, to bring in more faith organizations, but even with that, they're suffering with declining membership, so the public has to come to the aid of the neediest in addition to the churches and the synagogues. Aid. Rainey asked whether they would take a client that was not a shelter client, for instance, someone from Rev. Lane's program. Ms. Murphy replied that most of the people in Rev. Lane's program can come even if they've been rejected by the shelter. They would be able to go through Entry Point. Hilda's Place requires that they work on their issues, but if you don't go to Hilda's Place, you do work with Entry Point and their main reason for doing that besides being partners, because they are very close partners — they get together once a week to discuss all the clients. But also, they do a very in depth intake. Ms. Murphy is alone at the hospitality center but she knows that everyone is safe. Sometimes she gets people who haven't gone to Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting Poo* 3 October 23, 2007 Entry Point or to Hilda's Place yet and they arc welcome to stay for the morning until Entry Point opens and then she requests that they go over there before they come back the next day. Aid. Rainey thanked them. III. GIRL SCOUTS ILLINOIS CROSSROADS — FIT TO BE ME Patricia Reyes introduced herself and stated that she works for Girl Scouts Illinois Crossroads Council as a Girl Recruitment Manager, where she manages, supervises and coordinates the Girl Scout programs in the 102 communities within their jurisdiction. The mission of Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence and character that make the world a better place. They would like to present their Fit to Be Afe program to at -risk girls in Evanston. A grant of S9,000 would help subsidize the cost of the program to 130 girls in the Evanston area. The girls would be predominantly from the west and south sides of Evanston through collaboration with Family Focus and the Y.O.U. program. Fit to Be Me is an umbrella of programs that is designed to teach girls to live healthier lives through exercise, better nutritional choices, positive body image and an understanding of good emotional development. Child and adolescent obesity is among the nation's top concerns. The number of obese and overweight girls between the ages of 6 and 19 has more than doubled since 1980. Type 2 diabetes is quickly becoming the disease for youth, prominently found in African American and Hispanic girls, That is why it is so important to advocate for healthier lifestyles for our girls. The Fit to Be Ate program addresses these types of needs. 85 of the 130 girls would participate through the Family Focus program, 45 would participate through the Y.O.U. program, and all would be drawn from the CDBG target area or from low income households, which their collaborative agencies have systems to determine. The Fit to Be Afe program consists of 6 to 8 sessions lasting from 30 to 90 minutes, meeting weekly, biweekly or monthly. They will receive guest presentations and educational field trips from local Evanston based agencies, She said they hope that through support from the CDBG fund, they will be able to continue to give the girls from Evanston new information about how to live healthier lives. Contact information: 847- 573-0500, volunteers can go to %vww.ilerossroads.ore. Aid. Rainey asked what ages the girls are that can participate. Ms. Reyes said they are mostly between I l and 17 however the Girl Scout program is between the ages of 5 to 17. Aid. Rainey asked if most of the girls are recruited out of Chute School, to which Ms. Reyes replied that the majority of the girls are from Chute Middle and Nichols Middle Schools. Aid. Rainey asked if they come back consistently to the program, to which Ms. Reyes replied that the Family Focus participants consistently come back every session. At Y.O.U. there is always between 15 and 25 girls who regularly participate. They have 2 different sites, For the incentive field trip at the end of the session, the Homestead always donates a room and healthy snacks and different activities for the girls to do. The other girls also receive incentive field trips. Last year presenters from Wild Oats brought healthy snacks and beverages and the girls took a field trip to Wild Oats and they each received a voucher to purchase things of their choice based on what they had learned. Ms. Burrus asked where else they get their funding from. Ms. Reyes said the organization continually submits proposals to different corporations and foundations. For the Fit to Be Ate program specifically, they submitted a proposal to the Kraft Foundation and they did receive funding for part of the money they've requested, and part of that money goes specifically to Family Focus and Y.O.U. Ald. Rainey asked if they get money from National Girl Scouts. Ms. Reyes said not for the Fit to Be Me program. The national organization offers opportunities for • Housing & Community Development Act Con yin" Meeting Page 4 October 23, 2007 their Councils to apply for funding. One of the big; focuses that they're offering funding for is science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs. So currently they do not have any funding from their national organization for the Fit to Be Afe program. Aid. Rainey thanked her for her presentation. IV. YOUTH JOB CENTER. — YOUTH EAfPLOYMENT INITIATIVE (CORE SERVICES) Ms. Sacella Smith, Executive Director, introduced herself. The Youth Job Center is located at It 14 Church Street in downtown Evanston. Their phone number is 847-864-5627. Their website address is www.vouthiobcentenorg. She thanked the Committee members for all the time and attention they give the process, and for being one of their major sources of support over the years. They are proud to be celebrating their 25`� year anniversary of providing job placement services for youth. The Youth Job Center was founded in 1983 to provide job placement services and support for young people, especially those at risk. They are still the mainstay in the community. Their newly -revised mission statement clearly articulates who they are and what their purpose is. It simply states, "We provide youth, ages 14 -25 for success in the work place, job readiness, placement and training, support and partnership with employers. They have a plethora of programs aiding young people through every element of the employment process. She introduced some of the other members of the agency who have been instrumental in moving the agency forward, accepting and adopting their strategic plan last year that focuses primarily on three goals: increasing operational efficiency, strengthening their service, delivery methodology and best practices models, and focusing on results and outcome measurements based upon strengthening their data collection capabilities. She introduced Development Director Kimberly Hoopingarner, Business Manager Jim O'Donnell, Out of School Youth Coordinator Molly Mullin, a program that is a collaborative effort with the Workforce Board of Northern Cook County, ETHS Outpost Coordinator Pam Cali, Core Services Lead Employment Specialist and Summer Tutor Coordinator Sarah Griffith, former Americorp Vista Volunteer and now Employment Outreach Coordinator Allison Kelly, Americorp Vista Members for this year Maureen McCarthy and Brendan Cain, who have been instrumental in helping them strengthen capacity in the areas of volunteer management and marketing and communications. She also introduced the Board members present: President Jeff Conney, Michael Kamin, Jim Kaufman, Dr. Yendis Gibson and Gerri Sizemore. They appeared last year to request support for their Youth Employment initiative and she was new in the role of Executive Director. The following has occurred since last year, all of which are in line with the City of Evanston's Strategic Plan, Goals 3 and 12. This past year the Youth Job Center launched an aggressive community outreach campaign to raise public awareness and visibility about their agency's purposes and services. They did 16 community -wide presentations including conducting job readiness workshops at partnering agencies, participating at resource fairs and other community related events. They streamlined and increased the effectiveness of the overall client service delivery model through the introduction of agency -wide orientation and job readiness assessments for all new clients to help gauge the level of job seeker employability to make the most appropriate job matches to employers. They incorporated job readiness and life skills through every element of all of their agency's programs, including; their summer tutors' 6 week long; program with 14 or 15 year olds, as well as launching an 8 week job readiness life skills theories course at ETHS. They served approximately 1,300 young people, 1,050 of them were Evanston residents, placing 45% of them into jobs, which was an increase over last year. Those Mousing r< Comrrunky [3eve(opment Act Committee Meelinp Pap* S October 23.2007 services included job placement, job coaching, job counseling, career counseling and internships. There were approximately 450 resumes completed, 520 visits to their technology center which only has 10 computers. They provided 325 people at the outpost who were new clients and had 650 documented visits. They are actively working with the Evanston Youth Initiative, the city's newly hired Sol Anderson has met with them on several occasions to discuss ways to engage youth more aggressively, and they've brainstormed about ways to track how agencies are truly assisting the youth in the community, and what agencies they are being referred to for services. They areworking collectively with other local agencies because they understand that to meet the complex needs and challenges in youth development it is imperative for them to work together collaboratively and not separately. They are an active participant in the Envisioning Outcomes training sponsored by the Evanston Community Foundation and the City of Evanston. Molly Mullin is participating in that with the hope that it will allow them to strengthen their outcomes measurement capabilities, as well as introduce the use of logic models and increase their capacity for analyzing, synthesizing and processing the information that they receive, qualitatively and quantitatively. They sponsored 3 community wide job fairs in fiscal year 2007 at the Evanston Library with a total attendance of approximately 850 people and 265 documented job placements. They had another job fair on October 11, 2007 at Boo Coo Cafe where more than 350 Evanston "Township High School students attend. They had 10 local employers present. Counselors are currently processing that data. They coordinated and sponsored a three part employment series this summer from June through August, dealing with issues prevalent in the Evanston community, such as ex -offenders and employment, youth and employment and careers in the trades. All the panel discussions which were posted at Evanston Library, had representation from experts in the field. They have focused their outreach efforts and engaged more employers wilting and who have the capacity to hive ex -offenders, and some of the more challenging to employ populations. Programming departments are beginning to document the processes and procedures, creating standard operating procedure manuals. in the past, everything had been relegated to historical memory which often happens with small non-profit organizations. They have successful internship programs. They have placed interns with the City of Evanston, CEDA Neighbors at Work and many local businesses. They have begun highlighting more of their YJC success stories, of which they have many, at the suggestion of Bill Geiger at the YMCA. More important than all of this is the young lives they affect. They make a huge impact on the young lives that enter their doors and exit their doors with increased self esteem, their confidence level increased because they understand and recognize that the staff members that are there to help them are passionate and committed to seeing them succeed. They are often asked, "How do you measure success?" Success could be a client who received his G.E.D. after trying three times, a single mother who was homeless but through the help and support of the job counselors, was able to leverage the resources in the Evanston community, and get permanent housing and a full time job, so that noa, she is in her own apartment. Success is getting a 16-year-old to understand that he needs to get a haircut and wear a button down shirt and a tie on an interview, who called to say "Guess what — your advice worked —1 got hired!" The Youth Job Center has many successes. They are committed to being more actively engaged in the community as when they first went through the strategic planning process, a year and a half ago, and the SWOT analysis was done and they heard from external constituencies that they know what they say they do but weren't seeing them. They are moving in a direction that can definitely attest to who they are and what they do and they are doing it every day. She thanked the Committee. Imd 4 Housing E Comrnunity Devebpment Ad Committee Meeting Page 6 October 23.2007 Ms. Smith distributed printouts with percentages of placements by industry. Coleen Buries thanked her for the quantitative data, saying how helpful it is. Aid. Rainey asked that everyone sign in. She commended her on the presentation and her proposal. She commented that the agency has matured over the years, and how rewarding it is to see it. V. EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORP. — ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS Ms. Cathy Katona, Executive Director, introduced herself, stating that their services can be accessed at 1823 Church Street, Boo Coo Cafe. Their office hours are from 10 to 2, Monday through Thursday and by appointment at 847-756-0159. Their website address is Evanstoncdc.org. She introduced their board members: Secretary Diane Lupke, Ron Fieekman of Cyrus Homes, Lonnie Watkins, who is also a partner with them with Community Builders, Vice President John Fuller, Annette Johnson and Ron Keyshak who is not on their board, but attended to show support. She reported that over the past year, the ECDC has grown tremendously, They have developed closer ties with the Youth Job Center, the Evanston Youth Initiative, the Small Business Development Center, Community Builders of Evanston, Cyrus Homes and the Workforce Investment Board. In June they opened their office at 1823 Church Street, Boo Coo, giving them a presence in the community. They also formed an advisory committee, received much coverage in the Round Table on a number of ECDC initiatives, and doubled their budget. They have made significant efforts to diversify their funding and applied for over S650,000 worth of grants this year, however CDBG is the main investor in their growth and their efforts to revitalize the west side. Their success has been due in great part to the CDBG Committee's investment and she thanked them for their support. The city's evolving plans for the west side have been developed from the input of west side residents, property owners and business owners, which included ECDC board members. These are key documents to the revitalization of the west side and ECDC has forged many aspects of these plans into its own strategic plan. She distributed excerpts from the community plan that ECDC has modeled its own strategic plan after, specifically in the areas of economic development, housing, workforce development and community outreach. They also look to the city's overall strategic plan for direction in these four areas, but though they see the city as a valuable partner in implementing these plans, they recognize that the city has limited resources and staff to implement each action step identifted. Given ECDC's accomplishments over the past year and its future plans, there are a number of actions outlined in the plan that are appropriate for ECDC to implement in partnership with the city. In the document she distributed. she italicized the sections of the plan where ECDC has already begun to affect change. ECDC has proven itself as a community agent to implement many of the actions identified in the study. They are requesting funds to help them continue to implement the requests of the local community as defined by the plans. Some of the accomplishments of the past year were, in the area of economic development, in May, ECDC started and continues to support and convene the Church -Dodge Merchants' Association and helped them secure S 10,000 from the Economic Development Committee, for district beautification in the commercial corridor. They counseled several start-up businesses and potential business owners who live in the 5th Ward. In terms of overall small business development in Evanston, ECDC participated in Leadership Evanston this year, and worked _ with them to develop and conduct a cursory survey of over 500 businesses in Evanston. This preliminary information has been passed on to the City Manager's office and ECDC is Housing S Community Development Act Corm me Meahng Octaber 23, 2007 Page 7 dedicated to continuing to work with the City Manager's oolice on how to address the needs of small businesses throughout Evanston. To support the development oftheir comprehensive small business support services, to strengthen the businesses on the west side specifically, they have met with the Dean of the Kellogg School of Business to develop a powerful partnership. Currently they are working with a group of Kellogg students to conduct an in-depth small business needs analysis of individual businesses. This study will serve as the foundation to set up ongoing counseling services from Kellogg students to provide one on one support to help local businesses thrive in the issues of urban design, community character and zoning, public infrastructure services, streets and transportation, public safety and community cohesion identified in the plan, collectively called community outreach. With generous funds from the Economic Development Committee, ECDC has developed a website as a resource for the community. On the website, in addition to finding specific information on the assets and unique culture of the west side, they have created a portal to resource information throughout the city on affordable housing, business development and work- force development. They have also developed marketing materials which will include a map of the west side of Evanston highlighting the products and services that can be found on the west side to encourage increased patronage of local businesses. At the beginning of August, ECDC held its second national night -out picnic to bring together the community to combat drubs and violence on their streets. As a further sign of ECDC's interest in improving the safety of the neighborhood, ECDC just hosted a highly successful, two and a half hour town hall meeting on "How do We Create Community?" moderated by NBC's Art Norman, attended by several aldermen and state representatives. This is the first of ECDC's town hall meetings designed to bring the community together to come up with action steps to improve Evanston's west side neighborhoods. Part of their efforts will be to strengthen existing block clubs and support the Police Department in working with individuals interested in setting up block clubs on streets where they do not exist. ECDC is also concerned about the aesthetics and safety of their neighborhood, reaching out to the city in areas such as tree maintenance, trash can replacement and the addition of street lights in their commercial corridor. In the plan under housing, there is frequent reference to development of a neighborhood housing center. Ms. Katona proposes that ECDC is that neighborhood housing center. In the area of affordable housing, they successfully marketed and filled 5 homes with families making 80% or less of the median income, in conjunction with the Evanston Housing Coalition. In partnership with the Housing Opportunity Development Corporation and Interfaith Housing Network, they held over 5 home -ownership classes for west side residents, graduating over 40 from their program. They participated in and arranged seminars for the Evanston Foreclosure Task Force, a coalition of organizations united to fight the increasing trend of foreclosures, and as their capacity builds, they are looking into purchasing abandoned homes in the 5`h Ward to renovate them and turn them into affordable housing. With their increased capacity, they will be working with the city to address the issue of ridding the 5'h Ward of abandoned housing and renovating them into affordable housing using Community Builders of Evanston, which employs local youth, On the last issue, youth, ECDC is committed to developing a youth employment network with an emphasis on obtaining marketable job skills, on the job experience and attaining self- sufficiency. ECDC will continue to partner with the Youth Job Center and remain an active partner with the Evanston Youth Initiative. They have helped local youth develop their resumes and prepared them for job searches. During the genesis of Boo Coo, ECDC gave much counseling support to Community Builders of Evanston, a not -far -profit general contracting Hou" a Commun{ty Development Act Corrr*oun MeetmV CoDber 23, 2007 Pmg# a company dedicated to hiring previously unemployable local youth as their workforce and providing them with comprehensive, on-the-job training. To support their older residents, they have secured funds and opened a computer center at Boo Coo and will be offering fire classes in internet literacy and Microsoft programs to prepare local unemployed or underemployed residents for further job advancement. They will be sponsoring a financial literacy series beginning in January, and finally, as a result of a grant application that ECDC submitted, they are participating in another senior support effort by Julic Hamos's office and the Workforce Development Program in Evanston. This coming year, while still addressing housing and community outreach issues, ECDC will be focusing primarily on economic and workforce development. They have proposed a plan to develop the skills to fill the specific needs of local employers. By linking Community Builders and Cyrus Homes, ECDC helped create 10 permanent jobs for local residents. Their goal is to increase that effort and investment in the local workforce and have committed to the creation of 18 permanent jobs. They will also be working with local businesses to help them succeed and expand to increase hiring opportunities locally. They have accomplished much in the past year and they have lofty visions for the next year, as identified in their CDBG application. They are requesting an injection of significant funds from the city. Ms. Katona asked the Committee to imagine how much more ECDC could accomplish with full time staff dedicated to the revitalization and well being of the west side. The west side's residents need the jobs and its businesses need the support. She asked that the Committee please help ECDC realize their attainable goal. Mr. Richmond stated that he lives in the 5'h Ward and he drives by Boo Coo at least twice a day, and that he had an incredible sandwich there. He said there were probably 50 unemployable youth he encountered that had been hired by Community Builders Corp., and how good they felt, getting dirty, making some money and not having to look over their shoulders. He commended ECDC for providing them with that opportunity. Ms. Katona said the Economic Development Committee gave them funds for marketing materials, which she distributed to the Committee. Aid. Rainey asked her if the money on the revenue page is the EDC grant. She replied that is was. Aid. Rainey thanked her. VI. TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTER — EVANSTON BUSINESS OWNERSHIP INITIATIVE Mr. Tim Lavengood, Executive Director, introduced himself and explained that for the past 21 years the Technology Innovation Center has been a technology based business incubator and economic development organization in the City of Evanston. They are comprised mainly of their small business incubator which provides about 31,000 square feet at two Evanston locations, to support approximately 42 technology start up companies. They provide them with space, flexible lease terms, infrastructure such as high quality internet connectivity services and a legal clinic in affiliation with the Kellogg Alumni Association of Chicago to provide pro bono interventions to support their companies and some of the other services that are specifically related to small business financing, for which they are asking for financing. They also provide various forms of access and collaboration with Northwestern University and a peer group environment of at risk technology entrepreneurs who share experiences, knowledge and by the fact that there are so many of them there, serve as a magnet to attract higher quality service providers than they would be able to obtain independently. Their revenue sources within the small business development center are various service contracts: they are in the sixth Housloo d Communlly Dovobpment Act CommHlte Meatlnq October 23, 2= Pape 9 year of collaboration with the government of Japan to support selected Japanese entrepreneurs who come to work with them for some intensive support, for which they receive a stipend. They also have a contract to operate a small business development center with a service area extending from about Evanston to about the airport and from about the Lake County line to roughly North Avenue in Chicago. It's a big area that they serve with one full time person and himself serving as counselors. The main focus of that work is to provide assistance in loan packaging and in the development of financial pro forma statements, etc. for either equity or debt investment into their businesses. As the proposal shows, they leveraged about 53.3 million last year in equity investment and they created 60 plus jobs. They have been assisting small businesses for about 14 years. While they do work in market planning, they mainly help them acquire funding. Their proposal is an effort to leverage those 14 years of experience for the benefit of the low and middle income community in Evanston. Their current programs do not specifically fund that effort. They are measured by size of loans so in order to perform their task under the small business administration, which administers the small business development centers through block grants to all the 50 states, they have been encouraged to work with existing small businesses that are creditworthy in optimizing the amount of loans they can achieve. They have had to make decisions as to whether to work with some inexperienced lower middle income businesses, to raise S 10,000 to S30,000 loans or to work with more experienced businesses perhaps in the more affluent suburbs that may be able to achieve a $200,000 or $350,000 loan. Their creditability has been confirmed by the fact that they have been able to successfully do this for 14 years. They would like to use that proven experience and through this CDBG funding be able to redirect and re-emphasize their eftart to bring this same level of skill, experience and relationships to the benefit of both low and middle income owned businesses in Evanston, or Evanston businesses that will hire low and middle income people, or businesses in the greater area that will also create jobs for low and middle income people. They see doing this through a combination of training programs/seminars with intensive one on one intervention with the companies, starting, with their tax forms and building up to producing a professional loan package. They believe that many of the companies in tite Evanston area have failed to optimize the true collateral value of their businesses. They had, for example, a baker in Chicago who had been in business for 25 years and was running out of things because he had old equipment and didn't realize that after 25 years of being in business he could ,get a 550,000 - S 100,000 loan. His financials were in a binder covered with flour. He was eminently qualified for a loan and they got him a loan and he bought the equipment and he created jobs. Another example is a woman who stocked and maintained 4 or S vending machines. She needed a loan to buy 2 more vending machines. As they worked with her, it turned out that she had co -signed on a car loan for a friend of hers, not knowing what this would do to her credit rating. She was unable to get any financing. They explained to her that it would have been more affective for her to get the loan, put it into her business, and hire her friend, and let her friend help her maintain the wending machines and finance the car herself. Mistakes of this kind happen to a tremendous extent and while a lot of the bank participation in these neighborhoods tends to be in the form of mortgages through CRA and the like, they believe that the economic development leverage that could come from a dollar being put into a business as opposed to a dollar being put into a house, would tremendously increase the economic impact on these neighborhoods. He understands why the banks prefer to get into mortgage loans because they are securitized by the real estate, but the beauty of well -crafted business loan is that it, in and of itself, creates the wherewithal to pay the loan back. There are myriad opportunities in these communities to put money into these areas and enable people, through their business, to generate revenue, to create jobs, and to better control their own Housing $ Cvrmunity Devebprnent Act Con m uee Meeting October 23. 2007 Page 10 destiny. If they could redirect these efforts into Evanston, they could have tremendous positive economic impact in the short term. Aid. Rainey asked if they ever have people from Evanston asking them to put together a small business loan that they are not able to help because they don't fit into their criteria, and if they receive the CDBG loan, will they then be better able to help them. Mr. Lavengood answered yes, they will be able to increase the capacity by increasing the number of people. Since they produced this proposal, the state has come to them with a re -interpretation of an SPA rule, which would now bar his participation in the program because he is Victoria's (the Director of this program's) superior (not present) and the SPDC Director must have only subordinates and must control salaries of all those under her. Their interpretation has said that they can no longer do this. If they can get the CDBG grant, it will allow them to integrate these activities and bring him back in and add capacity to the program, and to able to connect funding with a performance measure that will encourage them to provide intensive support for specific individuals who have the potential to optimize the collateral value of their businesses. Aid. Jean-Bapiste thanked him for the information. He asked if their corporation is generating at a surplus now. Mr. Lavengood answered that it is not. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how they are able to sustain over 21 years. Mr. Lavengood answered that currently they are receiving about $50,000 to S60,000 a year in philanthropic support, which has enabled them to survive. They used to manage the 31,000 sq. ft., but now they have on their board the owner of the two buildings they occupy. He has contributed about S50,000 to $60,0001year for the last three years. They've also achieved a line of credit and they are in discussions with additional proposals. Within the program they have some profitable activities, such as the Japan program, but it covers many of the activities they are involved in that don't make money. Aid. Jcan- Baptiste asked whether they have served the Evanston community in the past years of operating. Mr. Lavengood replied that they have. This month, through the small business incubator they will bring at least 2 new companies into Evanston and they will have one that is expanding, moving into their space from Evanston, who, if not for these services, would have moved out of Evanston. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what Evanston businesses they have helped. Any of the 42 businesses that are in the incubator are Evanston businesses. They are at 820 Davis and 825 Chicago Ave. They have about 85 full time jobs there now. They create jobs separate from those mentioned, about 30 full time jobs a year. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for examples. Mr. Lavengood replied that one that is moving into Evanston at 500 Davis, is called Aginity, run by Bill Groomstead who several years ago built a company called Jenaer, to 400 employees, which he sold, and he is now going to remain, hopefully long term, in Evanston. They have supported other companies such as Healthpoint, which now occupies the whole floor of the Chase National Bank Building, who started in the incubator. IDO which is now occupying at least one floor of the Chandler Building, was a San Francisco company that came to the incubator to start their Chicago branch. Aid. lean -Baptiste asked if they have helped any businesses in the target area, to which Mr. Lavengood replied, no, because the funding sources they have don't fund them to go after this population. From the technology business standpoint, they do work with companies that come to them and they do not have any companies that are founded by people who come from the targeted area. In terms of small business development which is the outreach, it's a shame that they're not doing it. The performance measures as imposed by SBA do not permit them to produce the best results they can focusing on businesses that will take more time and have smaller loans. He's been talking with the federal reserve about this and what the can do to enhance performance under CRA and he is going to speak to them on November 3 about this strategy for economic development and for Housing 3 Community Development Act Con -ttee Meeting October 23, 2007 Pap@ 11 leveraging a lot of these networks such as the SBA network to enhance his and banks' performance under CR.a. fie would like to make this a model that could go across the country. Aid. Rainey said that this is an outgrowth of the research park, originally, f eapod came out of their incubator. Her perception of the operation is that it very much caters to high tech companies. There are numerous pieces of software and games that came out of the incubator. She asked whether he is talking about giving funding to someone who has a coffee shop or something like that. Mr. Lavengood said he would anticipate working with people in various aspects of the food industry: bakers, restaurants and contractors. They have been in existence over the last 14 years with the small business development center. The incubator is 21 years old, (the work Mth the government of Japan for G years). They want to take their experience to a population that heretofore they have not been funded to serve. Aid. Rainey asked him how long he's been involved. He said about 7 and a halfyears. Aid. Hansen asked, regarding his application on page 9 under revenue for 2007-08, under TIC Services Incubator Tenants S 180,480.00 which made up 49% of their revenue and for 2008-09 they projected $48,600, which makes up 50% which is a drastic cut in revenue and she asked why that is and wondered whether it is because one of their bigger tenants is moving. Mr. Lavengood replied that no, it is not because of that. Their big tenant has live offices. The issue is that because they provide month to month leases, that is as big as they can go. He will have a cash drain if he lets someone get too big when they move. The tenant who is moving, is moving into 1800 sq. ft. The reason for the disparity is that in Order to survive they have needed to get out of the real estate business. They have been managing 31,000 sq. ft. of space. They had been collecting the rents so the biggest numbers by far on both side of the balance sheet have been paying and collecting rent. This was taking about 40% of his time and about 50% of their Administrative Assistant's time to manage what was a break-even situation. They have delegated all of the rent collection activities to the existing property manager but they choose who rents and how they allocate the space as long as they meet certain performance measures in terms ofoccupancy. Aid. Rainey asked if they are paying rent and then collecting rent from their tenants. Mr. Lavengood said yes, so it is revenue. Aid. Rainey said they showed S 180,400 in revenue rent and S106,200 in operating expense rent, so they would be making money on that. Mr. Lavengood explained that the line item $180,400 encompasses more than rent. It includes some of the other service contracts, revenue from copy machines, etc. They also operate the internet infrastructure and a telephone system. Most of those expenses are on a break-even basis. They are pursuing financing to significantly expand their internet service because that is the one infrastructural service that companies are still really wanting to expand, given their type of clientele. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Flax whether this type of package is eligible for CDBG funding. Mr. Lavengood added said they plan to give seminars in financial literacy to assist people in understanding the basics for a targeted population. Aid. Rainey said this is the same thing ECDC is going to do and asked that they get together. Mr. Lavengood said he wasn't aware of the details of Ms. Katona's presentation. Ald. Rainey said that the services are fragmented throughout the city. When everyone is funded, everyone gets a pittance, but if they could focus in on specific services and fund specific providers for certain things as opposed to spreading very little all around, they would be doing more of a service, by better funding; things. Ms. Flax said the information they need to procure financing is eligible under special economic development for CDBG. It is a lot of documentation. She has met with Mr. Lavengood and Victoria, the Director of the Small Business Development Center, and discussed it. It is an area where a lot of paperwork and documentation is required, but it is eligible. Housing is Comnwn ty Devebpmont Act Committee Meeting Pape 12 October23,2007 Aid. Rainey asked if he is offering other serti-ices. Mr. Lavcngood said he believes that is where they can make the greatest contribution. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that with no history of providing this service to the targeted area, he's not sure of the motivation. He asked whether they are trying to enhance businesses in the community after not having surveyed the need. Mr. Lavcngood said they have served a number of companies within the targeted area, but it has been catch as catch can, through the Small Business Development Center, (not the incubator) which is what they want to leverage. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what businesses they have helped in the targeted area. Mr. Lavengood said he wouid have to ask Victoria, and he will be glad to get that information for him. He added that they have 2 or 3 major programs within the technology innovation center corporation. He was giving the technology incubator activities as examples to show at a fairly sophisticated level that they know what they're doing, but their service will be delivered through and will leverage most directly the Small Business Development Center, under Victoria Gheorghc. VII. SOUTH EVANSTON NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION — LITTER CONTROL AND INFORMATIONAL AIAGNETS Mr. Patrick Sullivan of the 8'h Ward, 716 Brummel Street, a member of the South Evanston Neighborhood Association introduced himself and stated his cell phone number: 847-224-3711. Last year the CDBG Committee granted money for nine garbage cans in their area, wrapped with a specific design. The garbage cans are blue or black and very beat up. They have a lot of litter and trash in their area. He distributed photos of the current garbage cans. He explained that it is hard to galvanize the neighborhood for set up for meetings, neighborhood watch, etc. In 1996 the Mayor and City Council approved the Citizens Planning Committee (CPC) and a lot of the concerns they are still talking about were addressed 10 years ago. There has been a lot of progress in the neighborhood but he believes that people feel hopeless and that getting involved is not going to do anything. Last year, the garbage cans were placed on Custer Street, the most visible place, and this year they plan to replace all the garbage cans from Ridge to Custer and Oakton to Howard. They are applying for 18 of them. It is their symbol of hope. They are hoping to draw attention to "SENA" their name that will be printed on the cans. They will hold a membership drive this summer. They will go door to door and send out letters. Present also were some members of the "CPC" who have done a lot of gardening work for them. Their goal is to get 100-200 people in their group. Their plan from 10 years ago fell apart for lack of involvement of the people. He believes Evanston is about community involvement. With the illustrated garbage cans they are trying to send a message that "change can happen and you can be a part of it." It seems like a small thing, but he believes it will be a symbol of hope. A lot of low income people in his area worry that they will be driven out and that they will not be a CDBG grant area in another 5 or 6 years. He does not want those people to leave. Part of the best part of their area is that it is diverse. That is why he lives there. i lis brother is Korean and his two cousins are African American. They were all adopted. He lives in that area specific for those reasons. He does not Nx-ant to see complete gentrification. The CPC wants to work with people in the area to find out how they can own their neighborhood. They will need to join the group and show up at the meetings to get that information. The magnet gives all the pertinent information about the neighborhood: community groups and fire, police and other community services. Many people who don't have computers will find this helpful. He and his organization are committed to this project and their neighborhood. A1d. Rainey commended him on the project and thanked him. The new illustrated (with leaves) trash container was shown to the Committee after the break. Mr. Sullivan also mentioned that Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting Papa 13 October 23, 2007 they displayed floral banners last year down Custer Street that say South Evanston Neighborhood Association, that were funded by CDBG. VIII. CITIZENS' LIGHTHOUSE COMIMUNITY LAND TRUST--110USING PROJECT Mr. Wilfred Gadsden, Executive Director, introduced himself, stating that their proposals are for acquisition and renovation of two different properties: one is 729 and 731 Dobson. This property is being offered for sale by its owner. It is not going through the real estate market. The owner approached them and has provided a fairly good price. Mr. Gadsden distributed photos of the property to the Committee. This property is two townhouses on one lot. It is in need of moderate renovation. It is currently rented. They propose to acquire the property and when the lease terms expire, improve and sell the property as affordable units, at 80% of the median income. They hope to be able to work with the :!xisting tenants ifpossible. One of them is a Section 8 tenant. They might be eligible for the Section 8 Hume Ownership Program, otherwise the property would be marketed to Evanston residents or those who work in Evanston, as a matter of priority. Aid. Rainey asked him why they are not going through the: normal mute for acquisition for rehab, knowing how short they are on funds. Given the amount ofmoney the CDBG Committee has, their proposals exceed their revenue by S 1,300,000. She wonders why, given there are other city sources for them to apply to, why are they applying for CDBG funds. Mr. Gadsden replied that one of their goals is to provide affordable housing. The other is to improve existing housing and make it available to people who are considered Iow income by }IUD guidelines, which is 80% of median income. In this case because they are getting a relatively good deal from the owner, (he has reduced his asking price considerably over the last year), is that they think this is a good opportunity for inclusion, including these properties in the land trust, and potentially, to demonstrate that Section 8 tenants can benefit from the program as well. That is why they've done two proposals. The first one to show how that model might work and the second one to show how other urgent needs and interests of the city in terms of housing renovation and affordability, can be provided to citizens who need this assistance. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked again why they have applied for CDBG funds. Mr. Gadsden replied that this proposal includes requests for other funds from the city of Evanston, including the modest amount of approximately 525,000 per unit in addition to this. They have acknowledged the existing limit for home funds which they are also applying for. This is reflected in the budget. They need that amount to cover the gap in financing to allow it to come in at 80% AMI. It could be done at 100%, but without this additional funding, it could not be done. Generally speaking the goal is to provide this benefit. The Community Land Trust model allows for a one time contribution of public funds for the property to be acquired and then remain permanently affordable, because of their methodology of acquiring the property and the re -sell formula that goes on for a 99 year lease. The increase in the property's value is limited and of course the next owner does not have to pay for the appreciated value of the land because they will retain the land. That allows for the next buyers to benefit equally, or even more, for affordability. AId. Rainey said this property is on Dobson. There are lots ofapplications that have been taken from people for these properties. The fact remains that there are about 14 — 16 vacant affordable units that the city has helped to finance in a very small area of town. She asked whether this concerns him and whether his organization has discussed the marketability of the units. She said people want to be in these units but wonders if they can, given the market forces that are present today, afford them. Mr. Gadsden replied that market forces are changing daily. When this proposal was submitted, they felt it was marketable under these financing Housirg d Comff uuuty Development Act Committee Meeting Page 14 October 23. 2007 arrangements. They still feel that way. He personally looked at the experience of Reba Place and its condo development, which is a little different project, but with similar concerns as well as the project that is now being marketed across the street. Marketing is always difficult for affordable housing because of the income limits. The buyer must be qualified for a mortgage at their level, but then they must also meet certain income and family size restrictions. So it will require them, as an organization, to do considerable outreach. That is something that the board has always planned for. Aid. Rainey said her concern is that the vacancy rate is so high for this kind of housing. She wondered what would happen to their ability to maintain their own finances if the units go vacant for a while. She asked whether they would be able to cover those costs. Mr. Gadsden replied that this proposal estimates carrying costs during a sale period. But it has trade assumptions based on occupancy during that time. Those assumptions will change so the actual numbers will change, based on what happens if they're granted. They will look at it again and say whether it will work or not. Similarly, carrying costs might increase significantly and that might make it a no go. But they have to look at the actual numbers that are being presented to them from the bank. One of the benefits they have is that their banking partner has offered them very generous terms for construction and acquisition financing. That helps to bring down the carrying costs and make it better overall. The next proposal does the same thing, but with a different project. One of the things that tie has heard from staff and the public is that the city has a problem with abandoned properties. This proposal is for the teardown of a vacant property and the construction of three units on the site. It assumes a SO' lot will be developed with that expectation. They have worked with Avery Architecture and Design, which has given a general scheme of what the property might look like. Mr. Gadsden distributed the plans. This plan calls for green design and incorporates a design plan which makes the units efficient to operate on a month to month basis. They think that is important especially for affordable families. The affordable household needs to have control as much as possible over their monthly operating expenses and as utilities and taxes go up, design becomes very important. This design allows for both private space for a family of young children and some common space that might be used. The design also incorporated one unit which is handicap accessible. They are trying to provide a variety of housing for people in need in the community. This type of property would typically be found on the west side. Aid. Rainey asked where this property is located. Mr. Gadsden said they have looked at a variety of sites and that this plan was based as a prototype on a site on Emerson that was bought and sold three times in the last 2 years. They put a purchase option on it, but couldn't get the purchase option. It went to sale, it came back on the market, they tried to get it, and it went off the market and into foreclosure again. They are looking for this type of property and sites that are appropriate for this design. Ald. Rainey clarified that this is a request for funding for a property that they do not yet have. Mr. Gadsden said that is correct. They have 2 sites where they are negotiating purchase options, either of which would be suitable for this design. Aid. Rainey said she finds this very. Mr. Gadsden clarified that for Dobson they have a purchase option for this proposal they do not. Aid. Rainey thanked him. 1X. INTERFAITH HOUSING CENTER OF THE NORTHERN SUBURBS—110MESHAWNG PROGRAM Ms. Gail Schechter, Executive Director, and Jacqueline Grossman, Homesharing Coordinator, introduced themselves. They said that between the two of them they have 24 years at Interfaith. The agency has been running the Homesharing Program since 1985 and a probably third or a Housing d Community Devebpment Act Committee Meeting October 23, 2007 Page 15 half of their roughly forty matches per year are from Evanston. Ms. Grossman's direct phone number is 847-501-5732, ext. 401. Their website address is%%T^v.interfaithhousingccnter.org. Ms. Grossman said that she has been doing this work for the last 10 years and still enjoying; it because she is always greatly moved by how using existing housing stock can help seniors age in place and help people who need affordable housing who work in the community and cannot afford it. She loves it because it is a very creative way to create win -win situations for people in need. For example, one of the matches is a 72 year old retired woman in a modest townhouse in Evanston who really needs to rent one of the rooms for S350.00/month to pay for her utilities. She matched her with a retired woman who is on dialysis 3 days a week and just lives on social security, and would be homeless without this program. Both women love gardening and their churches. They share that common spirituality. Homesharing also helps people stay in their homes if they need some assistance. There is a gentleman in a wheelchair who would like to stay independent in his home but he needs someone to drive him to the bank and the store, 4 — 8 hours a week and in exchange for that, he'll offer rent of S 130.00. She matched him with a gentleman who is getting a music degree at the College of Lake County and also running the music ministries of 2 of the churches in Evanston. He shares the home with this gentleman and he's able to live in his house and the seeker is able to live affordably. Some people just need the extra rent for home maintenance and house taxes — no services, so she matches executives who work here but have homes in other states, who just need a place 5 days a week, and can pay a rent that helps a senior to be able to pay their taxes, with them. Aid. Rainey commented that their program is the cheapest form of providing affordable housing in the whole world. You cannot beat it. The 42 matches that they made help 84 households. She thanked them for their good work and commented that the video they submitted was great. The video features 2 Evanstonians. Aid. Rainey said the most moving one was the woman with Parkinson's. Ms. Grossman said she has been a client for about 8 years and is currently housing a 19 year old from New York State who is very mature, who has a dream of snaking violins. He found a violin school in Skokie and is here to go to classes. His mother is thrilled that he is in a safe place with someone as nice as she is. A lot of the homes are very lovely but people just can't afford to be in them alone. Ms. Schechter thanked the Committee for their support. X. CEDA - NEIGHBORS AT WORK - MINOR REPARIS d PAINTING ASSISTANCE Ms. Patricia Vance, Executive Director of CEDA Neighbors at Work, introduced herself and stated that their address is 1229 Emerson St., Evanston. Their phone number is 847-328-5166 and they are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Their website address is www,cedaore.net. They offer a variety of social services. Their proposal is for the continuation of the Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance Program. 95° o of the funds that they use go directly for program services. The Minor Repairs and Painting Program benefits low and moderate income home owners, residing in their homes, with minor rehabilitation work that includes also interior and exterior painting. The majority of the home owners who receive these services are senior citizens or households with a senior citizen or a disabled individual with an income of 30% - 50% of the HUD median income guidelines. Over 90% of the households that they have served so far this year are female -headed. The major aim of this program is to maintain the housing stock so that it is decent and affordable for these home owners. Housing casts, property taxes and other things in Evanston are high. In order to maintain the economic diversity in Evanston it is necessary to offer assistance in maintaining the existing housing stock. This program serves clients throughout the entire city of Evanston and mainly in the Mous. V & Community Development Act Committee btee6np October 23, 2007 Pape 16 CDBG target areas. This program provides the labor for all of the services. Any home owner who has done any type of repair work, exterior or interior painting, knows the costs associated with these services. The program partners with existing services such as the City of Evanston's Exterior Paint Program, whereas then they only have to provide the labor cost, and the paint and supplies are obtained through the City. It is their belief that the basic necessity of affordable and decent housing must continue to be a high priority in the Evanston community and that the Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance Program continues to address this purpose, She thanked the Committee for their support and asked that they continue to support this program. Aid. Rainey said that one of the impressive things about the program is the stability of the personnel. The supervisor had been there for 11 years. Ms. Vance said that Booker, the Supervisor retired, but his assistance, took over his position. Aid. Rainey said it is important, when you're going into peoples' homes, that you're able to trust your help. She added that she was an employee at CEDA Neighbors at Work and she helped develop this program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what the waiting period is for someone who requests their services. Ms. Vance answered that they try to do certain work during certain times of the year. During the summer months they try to get outside painting done and outside minor repair work. Some people have been waiting 2 — 3 years for painting services inside. They only have a 4 person crew who does all the services. They try to prioritize. If and application comes in that has been cited they try to move that applicant up so they are not involved in a legal process. It is not a next -day service. Each year, people re -apply or can be removed from the wait list. Aid. Rainey added that the applicant does not have to live in the target area to receive the service. They do the weatherization program at 150%. They will do an energy audit of the home to evaluate what needs to be done to make the home energy efficient. They can spend up to S5,000 or $6,000 to do what is needed. The old traditional type things like new windows may not be what is needed under the energy audit. They can also help install a furnace. Aid. Rainey asked for the phone number again: 847-328-5166. Their heating program which offers assistance with heating bills has been taking applications for seniors and disabled people in September and October, and will be taking applications for all eligible households Nov, 1. Aid. Rainey thanked her. XI. EVANSTON DAY NURSERY —lAfPROPTHENTSFOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY Ms. Nora Rucker, Executive Director, introduced herself, stating the address is 1835 Grant Street, Evanston. Their phone number is 847-864-9700 or 847-864-5543. They are a full day daycare program serving children 2 and a half to 5 years old and a before and after school program for school age children kindergarten through third grade. Although their facility is located in the 7`h Ward, they serve children and families all across Evanston. Part of their mission, since their inception as the first daycare center in 1912, has been to serve a diverse population racially, socio-economically and ethnically, to be a microcosm of Evanston's population, both in their staff and in their enrollment. She distributed brochures to the Committee. She introduced Erin Pakowski, their Administrative Assistant who also helps with grants writing. They were the first daycare facility in Evanston, next to Dewey School. In 1955 the land was donated on Grant Street and they picked up the building and moved it to Grant Street. They have never closed their doors. During the depression they were a feeding site, so children came and ate meals at their school. They are now the only daycare center in the 7th Ward. Currently they serve a high percentage of low income families in their pre-school Housing & Community Development Act Committee fleeting dc*)tw23, 2007 Page 17 program. lb out of 26 of their youngest children are from low income families. 35% of their clients are single parents under the age of30. Not only do they provide full day daycare services, as part of their mission they also have a social worker on site and they do lots of parenting groups, parent training and advance teacher training. Even though they are the oldest, they are still on top of everything. They have 26 children in their after school program. 3 years ago they started a tutorial program with very economically funded work study students from Northwestern University, who do mentoring and tutoring. The first year they wrote the grant was because they had 3 children who were retained in school. Since the program they have had no children kindergarten through 3`1 grade retained. Their building is nearly 100 years old. A couple of things they are doing for which they applying for the grant, is obtaining historic status. They are also moving towards being as energy efficient as possible. Their request for this particular CDBG grant period is: they have 2 air conditioning units that are respectively 9 and 10 years old and they need to come into compliance with the new refrigerant and hey are hoping to save at least 30% on their heating bills by replacing the 2 air conditioners and refrigerant. They run a year round program and it would save them a significant amount of money. The other thing they're asking for is to replace the window blinds. There arc many windows and they need the kind of blinds that are energy efficient to keep out the sun in the summer and keep the heat in, in the winter. Having a building that is almost 100 years old, they want to have a modest looking building in a residential safe neighborhood in Evanston, which it is, and use the money they get for tuition as prudently as possible. That is why they're looking to save the money on their utility bill, so they don't have to raise their tuition costs. They work very hard to get grant money to provide the highest quality of care and education for all of their children and families and to help raise money for this request. Aid. Rainey thanked her for all their hard work. Ms. Flax said she is waiting to hear from HUD whether they consider the blinds furnishings or energy efficiency. Aid. Rainey said she has been to the daycare center and it certainly is a very efficiently used property. XII. MCGAW YMCA — RESIDENCE PASSENGER ELEVATOR REHAB Mr. Bill Geiger, Executive Director of the YMCA, introduced himself. The McGaw YMCA is located at 1000 Grove St. In addition they have leased facilities on the corner of Maple and Lake Streets that houses their children's center and they lease space at the Family Focus building for their roster Reading Center Literacy Program and they operate Camp Echo on property located in Fremont, MI. Their phone number is 847-475-7400 and their website address is www.mcuawvmca.orr'. He thanked the Committee for the opportunity to speak with them. As a citizen of Evanston, he thanked them for their efforts. He introduced John Mroczka, long time Residence Director of the McGaw YMCA. lie stated that they are grateful for the Committee's consideration of their request for additional funding for the residents' passenger elevator rehabilitation project. The elevator serves their almost 172 residents. They are also grateful for their commitment last of 535,000 towards the project. He thanked the Committee for that. Their mission statement is: The McGaw YMCA is an open, charitable membership association that promotes growth in spirit, mind and body through programs and services for all in the community. The McGaw YMCA serves the Evanston area community. In fiscal 2008 they have again budgeted to provide S 1,400,000 in membership and program subsidies. They will provide $500,000 in membership assistance, up 16% in just the first fiscal quarter, compared to last year. In addition, they will provide S900,000 in program subsidies, ranging from child care to swim lessons to family programming to active older adult programming to residents' rent subsidies and much more. He stated that is asking the Committee to focus, in their deliberation, on their resident members. Up to 172 of their members live at the McGaw Housing a C4nxrnmity Development Act C.onTu tee Meeting Page Is Member 23, 2007 YMCA, to be exact, 158. They are both residents and members of the "Y." They are also citizens of Evanston. Their Board and many of their other members understand their residence program is a vital part of who they are. it is clear evidence of their commitment to meet the critical for affordable housing in Evanston. Their goal statement for the Residents Program is: they will provide affordable housing for low income men in a supportive YMCA program setting based on their YMCA core values that enhance their resident members' spirits, minds and bodies. He hopes their proposal provides the required information for their deliberations. They will be happy to provide additional information at any time. Mr. Geiger distributed photos of two of the long time residents: Mr. Brown and George Martin. Over 200 single men, given the comings and goings of their resident population, cacti year. Most nights they are 93% occupied, and that is a bit higher as the nights get colder. 89% of their residents are defined as very low income by government standards, 27% receive some form of government assistance, 34% are black, 2% are Hispanic, 25% have been referred to the Y by a social service agency, and 28% of their residents were homeless prior to living at the YMCA. Simply put, he said, they need additional CDBG support and time to replace the resident passenger elevator controller. This is the only elevator transporting the almost 172 men living on their 3M, 41h and Sei floors, hundreds of trips up and down every day, 365 days of the year. He stated that he had told the Committee a year ago that the elevator controller was failing on an increasingly frequent basis. In the past year they have had 18 service calls. They received $35,000 in CDBG funds toward the repair of the elevator. He thanked the Committee again for the funds. The money is unspent because more is required to get the job done. They are requesting an additional $60,000 in CDBG funding. Their proposal includes $30,000 in YMCA funding to be provided from internal sources to reach the total amount required. By policy of the Y, they cannot consider beginning any capital improvement project until at least 50% of the funds required are committed. Without the help of the CDBG funding, they cannot bet there. The McGaw YMCA is heavily in debt. Additional borrowing is not prudent. Fund raising to finance the S 128,000 total cost of replacing the controller for the residents' elevator is extremely difficult. Many individuals, corporations and foundations typically are unwilling to fund capital infrastructure requests like this. These items don't meet many established guidelines nor do they provide the kind of recognition often sought by funders. Their current membership and donors play an essential rote in supporting the S 1,400,000 in fee assistance and program subsidies mentioned earlier, including the resident rent subsidies to those who require such support. The residents of the Y (and citizens of Evanston) have very few affordable housing options. They cannot move to another Evanston area SRO when the passenger elevator finally dies, because there isn't one. They don't have the financial capacity to move into apartments, or certainly to contribute to a passenger elevator fund. They need the CDBG Committee. He closed by saying the McGaw YMCA is a charitable, non-profit, 501 C3 organization, established in 1885. It has served the community for almost 123 years. Their Board, membership, the almost 172 resident members, John and Mr. Geiger himself thanked the Committee for their consideration. Ald. Rainey asked Mr. Geiger what the agreement was last year when they gave the S35,000. He said the request was for significantly more than S35,000 last year. Their hope was to be able to fund -raise the balance and it has been considerably harder to get. Ms. Burrus asked what happens when the elevator shuts down. Mr. Geiger replied that in the best case, they send someone up to reset the elevator. Often that will work. In the worst case scenario, they have to stop using the elevator and they call the service company. They do have a freight elevator which is really designed for freight. It moves linens, towels and garbage up I I I Rousing & Community Development Act Committee Mee ft October 23, 2007 Prof 19 and down and this Committee was very generous in helping them rehab that elevator 3 years ago. But it is not suitable for regular passenger use. Passengers also include, very often, young moms and dads who are taking children down to their Beidler drop in center, so that parents have a safe place for their children to stay while they're using the facilities. Ms. Burrus asked what they're doing now for fund raising. Mr. Geiger replied that they do not have an active fundraising effort currently for this project. They have been short staffed in their development area and hope to bring on someone who has grant writing capability who may be able to identify some funding that they otherwise haven't been able to find. Ile believes there is opportunity there, but it is tough. A1d. Rainey thanked him. XIII. RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT — ELLIS PARK FIELD HOUSE Mr. Brian Rosinski, Director of Ridgeville Park District introduced himself and stated that their office phone number is 847-869-5640 and that this request is to help fund a structure at Elks Park, which is at the corner of Callan and Mulford. He presented a diagram of the park area. The current plan, which could change very quickly, has the structure in the middle of the eastern section of the park. lie met with the Police Department today and they would much rather see it at the drop off point, closer to the street, which is a good idea, in fact, it moves it to Callan Street and gives anyone dropping off children better access to the building. Mr. Rosinski distributed a picture of the park with the current of the location of the field house. The park is used for drop in participation, some baseball games, AYSO soccer uses it occasionally, and they have a cooperative lunch program there with the City of Evanston during the summer months. The proposed shelter would include a kitchenette, bathrooms, and an approximately 47' X 27' multipurpose room. The entire building would be 80' X 27' (approximately 2,200 sq. ft.) Proposed uses for the building would be headquarters for their Youth in the Parks Program. They put counselors in the parks at Reba, Brummel and Elks. They would use that building for the afternoon and evening sessions, after school tutoring program, expanded sport programs, camps throughout the summer, neighborhood meetings/functions, parties, social events for the neighborhood. This shelter would also be energy efficient and would include a rain collection tower to water the shrubs. The current Board of Ridgeville Park District is very conscious of green space and environmental issues, so that would be part of the project. Currently, Ridgeville Park District has 7 parks. Elks is about the largest in acreage. They have another field house at Kamen East Park, which is at South Blvd. and Barton, and, as a point of reference, that field house is used for the Regional Park District Band of Evanston, camp programs morning and afternoon, meetings, game nights, T-Ball, and special events that may arise from neighborhood requests, throughout the year. He offered to take questions, Ald. Rainey asked if there has been any confirmation ofother funding. There is a grant request from the Cudahy Foundation, Senator Obama's office appropriation request, and NFL Charities. He met with a committee member of NFL Charities over the weekend at the Field Dedication at Evanston High School and that looks good but they can't promise anything until it goes to committee. It is not about building, it is about football fields and football programs to enhance green space. There's a potential to enhance the green space and therefore may get some funds from them. They are going to help ETHS with S250,000 in the very near future, They have a committee member who is a former Evanston resident, Mike Kent. Ms. Burrus asked if he would summarize what happened at their meeting with the area citizens. He said there were 2 meetings: one January of 2006 and one on October 17'h. It was a "mixed Housing & Community Development Ad Committee Meeting October 23, 2007 Page 20 bag." He said the immediate neighbors, though he did not want to speak for them, tend to not want a whole lot going on the park. They want safety, security, and good things going on. The mixed bag were the immediate neighbors and the building. In the spring and summer months, in the target area of the Elks and Reba neighborhoods, its very, very busy, due to activity, and not all of it good. They think this swill give the opportunity to change some of that, mentor, and give more programs in the park. He said it was not 100% positive, "build it." Aid. Rainey said, on the other hand, at the last meeting, which she attended, there were so few people that it that it's difficult to make a judgment. She said she would call another meeting. ,fir. Rosinski added that there were 15-18 people at the last meeting. Aid. Rainey thanked him and commended him for doing a great job. XIV. WEISSBOURD-HOLNiES FAAMILY FOCUS CENTER — FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT Mr. Kevin Limbeck, Executive Director of Family Focus introduced himself and Sandra Hill, Center Director, Frank Yancey, Building Engineer and Jim Hagy, Family Focus Board Member. He thanked the committee for their support over the years. Because of CDBG, Family Focus has been able to rebuild the building, and it's become a viable community center. Each year it is doing better but there are tremendous expenses related to infrastructure such as boilers, roofs, the committee has helped them with windows, and they appreciate it. This year they are coming to the Committee for some other vital services that must be done in order to keep the building going. Family Focus, as an organization continues to struggle to raise funds and they do invest regularly into the building, but it can't be done with CDBG funding, It is a partnership. Ms. Hill explained that this year's projects are a variety of things that need to be done in the building, including replacing coils for one of the rooms that does not provide any heat at all, replacing piping which is a big part of the project, which goes the length of their lower floor, 280 feet. It is water piping that they have been piping for a number of years, that is rusted out, testing and calibrating the 44 thermostats in the building (part of their proposal last year that they removed to reduce their request), replace 30 emergency exit lights throughout the building on every floor, repair 23 sinks (3 floors and the basement) and install protective covers for 12 fire alarms (also taken out of last year's proposal to reduce their request). The total amount of the request is $53,723.00. These repairs are necessary because their facility is so old that without them, they will be praying that those things don't burst, or that it provides a safe environment for their participants and community. They request this humbly. Aid. Rainey asked whether the water supply piping was drinking water. his. Hill replied that it is heating pipe, adding that last year they helped them repair some of the boiler and this is part of that repair. Aid. Rainey asked its. Hill to explain the sink repair need. his. [fill replied that there are sinks in many room throughout the building (they have a number of tenants). Most of their operation is on the first floor but sinks are in many of the room~ and they are either leaking, disconnected or they don't have the bottom. They especially need the sinks fixed in the rooms where they have the after school program. Those sinks are not functional for running water of any kind. The total is 23 sinks throughout the building that need repair. Aid. Rainey if they plan to replace them. Mr. Hill said most of them just need to be repaired, but some need to be replaced. Aid. Rainey said that seems like day to day operating expense but since it hadn't been done at the time, it got worse. Ms. Hill agreed that it just got worse and worse and they have not used them but they are in such bad shape. Aid. Rainey asked whether the emergency 1=0 F4ourving a Conwrwnity Development Act Corttrnittee Meeting October 23, 2007 Page 21 lights work to which Ms. Hill replied that they work but some need to be replaced. That is where most of the lights need to be replaced. Ms. FIax said that a meeting has been scheduled to discuss the Family Focus ADA accessibility issue. Ms. Flax has met with Kevin Limbeck and Jim Hagy of Family Focus and Herb Ziegeldorf, a HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity specialist. They have a meeting scheduled for Monday October 29'h. They are continuing to work on resolution of accessibility at the building. Aid. Rainey asked what they expect to accomplish at this meeting. Ms. Flax replied that HUD has developed a voluntary compliance agreement which has stipulations on what changes need to be made in the building to make the building fully accessible. Family Focus's architects have said that certain of the things proposed by HUD would make Family Focus out of compliance with the State of Illinois. They are working to resolve the differences between the state and federal regulations to make sure that any changes or requirements for change are compliant with both federal and state regulations. Brian Barnes of the City, continues to work with Doug Gamble, who is the accessibility expert for the State of Illinois to try to get direct rulings from them. They hope that by the time they meet on Monday, they will have representatives from [IUD, more input from the state, input from the Dept. of Justice and be able to reach a conclusion on a voluntary compliance agreement. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what progress has been made. Mr. Hagy said he was at the meeting about 2 months ago with HUD based on the history of things they had already done at the building and the issue of what vertical transportation could be used to upgrade the building even more. I -IUD retreated and wanted to do more research. They waited until the meeting that is now scheduled for Monday, October 29`h, to hear their ideas based on the facts they presented which were that they had made a lot of improvements to the building already, before this complaint was brought and there is this issue still about either a lift or an elevator and what was possible in the future and what was affordable. HUD wanted to think about that some more and to consult with the state and with the Dept. of Justice. They are bringing those resources back at their request at the next meeting (10/29/07). They will hear HUD's thoughts as they reflect on it and it is really on their timetable. Aid. Rainey asked whether he believes that this meeting will resolve the issue of whether or not the Committee can go forward with considering the proposal. Mr. Hagy replied that they hope it does in the sense that their advice all along from their lawyers has been that the building is compliant now because of its age and the practicalities and expense of upgrading it further. Whether or not there was a complaint before HUD, they have continued to want to invest in the building in the ways that they've presented tonight and also to enhance accessibility. They have a new lift in the theater, they have seating for the disabled within the theater, they have upgraded bathrooms, and a number of other things. The last remaining issue is what can be done to further enhance vertical transportation, either with an upgraded lift (there are technologies for that) but there are different views about whether that's acceptable and suitable under the code for this building, or an elevator, the cost of which is equal to one year of their operating budget. If they had to think about an elevator it would be eery difficult for them to fund it or accommodate it on their own. They can't stop serving the community for a year to fund it so that would be problematic. HUD was receptive to all of these issues. They heard it and they are waiting to hear what their thoughts are. They are sympathetic to the position of the Committee and they are also mindful that their lawyers have told them that they are compliant now. Given the fact that the Committee and their organization are subject to this complaint at the moment, they can't comment too much on the complaint. They are eager to improve the building where they can 1 Housing 3 CorrYmMy Development Act Corm.ttee Meeting Pag* 22 Ortober23.2007 and at the same time they've been advised that they are compliant today. They are hopeful that this meeting will produce something useful for all. Ald. Rainey thanked them for their good -work and for their presentation. XV. CITIZEN COMMENT Citizen, Ms. Mary Fricdl commented that she thinks Lighthouse Community Land Trust is a wonderful program. The idea of keeping the property and only selling the building and being able to recycle it again later, keeping a low income property sounds like a wonderful idea. The concept was new to her. She is hoping the Committee will be able to fund it. Ald. Rainey asked if staff had any comment. Ms. Flax reminded the Committee that the third and final of the applicant review meetings is this coming Tuesday, October 30th, at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. Ald. Rainey added that at that meeting they will hear all the city and administrative applications. Ms. Flax announced that the Committee will deliberate and make their recommendations at the meeting on November 1 P, in Council Chambers at 7:00 p.m., and that it too will be televised. XVI. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman APPROVED HOUSING AND CO.Ni�1UNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC INiEETING Tuesday, October 30, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Coleen Burrus, Ald. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Bobbie Newman 1. CALL TO ORDER(DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Aid. Rainey explained that this is the third funding process meeting far 2008.09 funding year, at which they are hearing city -generated proposals. She asked Ms. Flax to explain the groupings of the proposals to the Committee. Ms. FIax stated that the City applications are grouped by the goal in the City's Strategic Plan that they address. The first 5 applications address Goal #2 which is to create policies and programs that result in well -maintained, diverse housing stock throughout the City of Evanston. The next b applications address Goal # 11 which is to define Evanston neighborhoods and ensure they are safe, clean and attractive. The next 5 applications address Goal #4, to create and maintain functionally appropriate, sustainable, accessible and high quality infrastructure and facilities. Application #14 addresses Goal #13 which is strive to ensure that all residents have access to health care as well as basic food, shelter and housing. The last 3 applications address Goal #3 which is to generate marketable job skills for Evanston residents. Aid. Rainey thanked her and informed the applicants that they would be required to cut $1,300,000 from applications versus their allotment. They have now heard from HUD and it is just a projection that they probably will be getting S1,981,382.00 vs. what they thought, which was S2,010,617.00. In addition to that money of course they will use the reallocations. They are now an additional S 100,000.00 short based on the applications they have. Ms. Flax will be doing presentations for 4 of the City's proposals. II. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT —CODE COMPI_ ANCE Mr. James Wolinski, Community Development Director. introduced himself and stated that for the last 18 years, Stan Janusz, whom he introduced as his Assistant Director, and he have been appearing before the Committee and requesting funds, which they have graciously granted, allowing them to do the important work they do in Code Compliance and Housing Rehab, and that this will be the last time they will be requesting funds because Stan and himself will be retiring early next year. fie thanked them again for their continued support through all these years. He added that it has gone by quickly. He said there is nothing new about the Code Compliance program. They try to put together new programs over the years to meet the needs of the folks living in the target area as well as throughout the city. The Community Development Code Compliance Program is the 7 Hou%UV tt Community Development Act Coma mee meebN Pape 2 October 30, 2007 backbone of the city's Housing Inspection Program. They inspect the 14,000 rental units in the community on a cyclical basis. There are 2 inspectors that are 1000/0 funded by CDBG who work primarily in the target area and 2 other inspectors that are funded at 30% and additional support staff. Since the Community Development Dept. lost an inspector last year through the budget process, their supervising inspector is now being included at 80%, because his work is now in the CDBG target area as well. It has been a difficult year because in addition to the loss of the inspector through the budget process 2 inspectors resigned in March and it took 3 months to hire one new inspector and they just hired the second new inspector within the last 3 weeks. Their numbers are down for the first 2 quarters of the year, but they are now fully staffed and he believes they will be able to get back on course with target numbers. Ald. Jcan-Baptiste asked what the quantitative impact of having one inspector gone was. Mr. Wolinski replied that traditionally an inspector does between 500 and 600 units a year so with the budgeted one gone they are more or less down approximately 500 units. Ald. Rainey said she thought it was a mistake to allow for the loss of an inspector. When you look at the production numbers, 3,500 units, etc., given the work force that we have in this department, she doesn't see how people can keep up. Evanston has so many cases where inspectors have to keep going back. For years, the council has been talking about charging for re -inspections alter a certain number and they've never done that. She thinks its so wrong that our city should be burdened with landlords who wait until the inspection knowing there's going to be an inspection, to fix things. The notice that there is going to be an inspection should be the alert that they have to get in compliance, and not wait and see how many violations they are going to get. She commended the department on doing a wonderful job, Mr. Wolinski for doing a wonderful job overseeing it and said that Mr. Janusz is one of the best employees the city has. III. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT — DEMOLITION Mr. Wolinski explained that this program provides funding for the city to not only do demolitions in the target area but also perform structural inspections, for instance, currently they have done 6 structural inspections on vacant and boarded buildings which are a precursor to taking a demolition case either in front of AA or in front of the Circuit Court. We have S15,000 allocated there, which would probably only do a couple of demolitions but they can always go back to the revolving loan fund if they are able to pursue additional cases and those funds are reimbursed to the city after the property is leaned. Ald. Rainey asked him if this money is part of the old funds that they had from demolishing garages. Mr. Wolinski replied that no, this is a separate fund. She asked if it is only for boarded up buildings. Mr. Wolinski replied that it is for anything on their vacant list, where they go after cases where the homeowner doesn't have the funding to take it down or doesn't want to take it down and it's a court case in most cases. it does not go fir board -up money. IV. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT — HOUSING REIMB Mr. Wolinski explained that this program is another cornerstone of the program. It uses CDBG funds for the allocation of funding to loco to moderate income home owners to maintain their properties. It can be done either for single family or multi -family buildings. A year or so they raised, with the Council's approval the amount a single family house owner could apply for from S30,000 to S50,000. S30,000 wasn't getting them what they needed on some of the properties. These loans can be either title transfer or they can be an amortizing loan at 0% interest, depending on the income level of the property owner. CDBG funding HouskV & Community Development Act Commi tea M wtkng OVwW 30, 2007 Paw 3 goes to support the Assistant Director, the Housing Rehab Specialist and the Secretary in these areas. He said Sarah has done a great job as far as allocating the salaries to the programs themselves. If you notice, there is not a program for the Community Development Director and the Executive Secretary, which have been funded in the past at 50%, because they are now allocated directly to the programs that they are dealing with. It is not because he was leaving that he was cutting that out. It was done at HUD's request. He added that the numbers are not where they would hope to be but Stan is putting some additional information together regarding approximately 9 units that are currently in various stages of rehab. The numbers as they proceed throughout the year will be quite favorable to the target. Aid. Rainey added that they also added condominium units to the eligible types of housing for the rehab program. They arc listed as such in the proposal. Mr. Janusz said that currently and for next year, the goal for the year is 4 condo units. They have 15 buildings in various stages of construction and applications for about 15 one and two unit buildings that they are processing, so there is a lot of activity. The 9 units currently under construction should all be completed this quarter. For the year, he expects they will be over their goal for single family. Multi -family units are not as common in the last few years due to more condo conversions, a lot of cheap money in the market place and a lot of requirements such as lead based paint requirements and number of people required in household. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how much money the city is recouping in terms of the loans we have made for rehab. Mr. Janusz replied that the majority of the loans arc title transfer, so they do not collect on them until the borrower sells or otherwise changes title. He said he believes the number currently is about $100,000 in loan repayments, which is a smaller portion than what they recoup the other side of loan payoffs. He said he just got a loan payoff for S 10,000 from an Evanston Housing Coalition project from a few years ago, and that buildings sell throughout the year. In the last 24 years he has seen many refinances and many people paying off, however the climate has changed. Through this point in the year in payoffs he has about S95,000. Aid. Jean Baptiste asked if we are losing our money through foreclosure, to which Mr. Janusz answered, no, we are not. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether the contractors they use are Evanston minority or women owned businesses. Mr. Janusz replied that they have a contractor list and a lot of the work that is done now (though not every project) requires contractors who are licensed for lead based paint abatement. They have about 4 lead -abatement licensed contractors, 6 or 8 regular general contractors. It is all competitively bid. They try to encourage the contractors to use the subcontractors on the list for their work. He said lie would provide a list to Aid. Jean - Baptiste, who asked about the women and minority owned businesses or employees. Mr. Janusz replied that for minority contractors they have at least one who is a lead -abatement licensed contractor who is heavily involved in the program. Some of the other licensed lead contractors are probably not minority. He said he couldn't think of any woman contractors. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether they would try to do better in sharing the work. Mr. Janusz said they will try to advertise more. lie said in trying to get lead -based licensed contractors they went through the Cook County list of licensed lead contractors and sent out mailings of 20 at a time, probably 100 altogether, and he's not sure they even got one response, explaining that it is difficult to recruit contractors. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked about the aspect of the work that is not for lead -based paint abatement licensed contractors. Mr. Wolinski replied that Econ. Development, which is a minority -owned. contracting business not only does new construction but is Iicensed as one of their rehab contractors, is also a lead - abatement contractor and is becoming quite active in the community. Econ. Devel. just did 736 Dobson which is 6 units. He has been involved in both lead based jobs and general rehab jobs. He's probably the most active minority general contractor. Mr. Wolinski added that we need to get people like Evanston Community Builders involved as subcontractors and they are Housing A Community Development Act Co"mitee Meatrnp Papa 4 OcioW 30, 2007 trying to put the word out that they arc out there to do various types of trade work, be it from concrete work to carpentry. I le added that in the lust 5 or 6 years there have been a number of minority contractors who have dropped out. BilI Greaves, a big rehab contractor, is no longer in the business in E %anston. I le helieves he moved out of the area. He added that they are continually attempting to spread the word and to certainly bet contractors that are either minorities or woman -owned to he on their list so that they can be active. It is a never ending battle to keep them involved. "Econ" is leading the charge as far as being a fairly major minority owned general contractor. Aid. Rainey thanked them. V. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT -- GRAFFITI REMOVAL PROGRAM Mr. Wolinski stated that this program is critical in this community. The CDBG grant funds half of a permanent employee's salary, who also does sign inspections. It also, through the general fund, helps to fund the graffiti consultant removal contractor who cleans up the graffiti on major sites that go beyond stafrs abilities. They average between 4,000 and 6,000 tagging incidents. It is not getting better. It seems there are new generations of taggers replacing the old. He said that the positive thing about it is that they work with the Police Dept. and most of the tagging is not gang -related. It is what some would call art, however he calls it a crime — defacing public and private property. He stated, for the viewing audience that the City will take care of any graffiti for any property for the owner in Evanston, whether you are a business, a single family or multi -family homeowner. All you have to do is sign a waiver with the city and we will remove the graffiti at no cost to the property owner. We have a graffiti hotline. Graffiti is usually removed within 2448 hours. 71te hotline number is 847- 448-8021. Aid. Rainey agreed that graffiti is vandalism, adding that for people who think it is artistic expression, they are paying S79,300 a year just to have it removed from public property. Mr. Wolinski added that we allocate between S 15,000 to $20,000 in the general fund to pay our consultant. That money has already been spent so we arc working in the red now because the tagging continues. Karlton Mims takes care of the smaller jobs like traffic light boxes, sidewalks, walls, some areas, but the consultant, who uses a power washing system, removes large masses of graffiti tag. Aid. Hansen clarified for the viewing audience that she has encouraged people to call the Police Dept. as well as the graffiti hotline. Aid. Rainey thanked him. VI. OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY — COMh1UN1TY FAIRS Ms. Carolyn Collopy, Sustainable Programs Coordinator, introduced herselfand stated that this program is being proposed through the City Manager's oolice. She explained: The Evanston Community Fair is a project modeled after a long running community resource fair in Portland, Oregon, called "The Fix It Fair." It was an event hosted by the city of Portland's Office of Sustainable Development, targeted at low income and hard to reach households. It brings a variety of community resources together under one roof to provide participants with a broad range of strategies, tips and resources to increase hunk alfordahility and health. The event was started as an outreach event for Portland's block -by -block program which provided free weatherization services to qualified residents. At the curly Fix It Fairs residents attended a do it yourself home weatherization workshop where they learned simple steps they could take to reduce drafts and high heating bills, received a free weatheriratittn kit that contained easy to install materials such as plastic window kits and caulk. Over the years, it grew to include a wide range of workshop centers and community partners. It now offers workshops on a variety of topics from home weatherization, water conservation, indoor air quality and home composting to affordable nutritional meals, debt management, financing and emergency E ' Housing a Community DevolwiTwA Act Committee Meetlrtig Page 5 Octotrer 30, 2007 preparedness. The city of Evanston has taken a growing interest in addressing citizen concerns around environmental sustainability issues. In two weeks the city will be launching the development of its climate action plan at a community kicko(Tevent at the Civic Center. Consistently, the media's message around environmental sustainability is that you need to have money to be ecologically sensitive and responsible. Low and moderate income households are often excluded from addressing these issues when in fact they have much to benefit. Greening the home decreases utility bills and increases health. With basic needs dominating the concerns of most low and moderate income households, the motivation for implementing environmentally friendly measures at home isn't to do good for the environment. It is to decrease the amount of money spent on utility and health care bills. The Evanston Community Fair addresses two of the community's growing concerns: affordability and environmental sustainability. The proposed project will include two events: One at the Levy Center and one at Fleetwood Jourdain, both of which are located in CDBG target areas. If funded, the event will target low to moderate income households for participation although all Evanston residents will be welcome to attend. The event's primary focus will he on increasing home affordability through resource conservation and environmental health. As with Portland's Fixit Fairs, when promoting the event, the messaging will stress the financial savings and resources attendees will find at the event, not to be touted as a green fair, The outcomes of the project include increased awareness of community services and resources and household implementation of money saving and health improving strategies and practices. Given the wide range of information and services they hope to make available at this event, it is hard to calculate the potential savings a participant will be able to achieve from attending. If for example, a participant attends the weatherization workshop and installs the kit provided as well as employs all of the tips provided, they could save anywhere from $5.00 to $200.00 over the heating season. It is hard to determine, based on existing condition they may have in their home. The funding they are requesting covers the basic cost of basic weatherization and water conservation kits, the creation and printing of instruction guides for the kits and a low cost/no cost home energy guide, the creation, printing and distribution of program brochures, and program coordination. The event will be free to the public. The program will work collaboratively with community groups and city departments to secure workshop speakers and a comprehensive array of nonprofit vendors at no cost. The city is proposing to raise 16% of these costs through corporate sponsorship. They are confident that this model will be successful and arc requesting the CDBG funds to launch the program, allowing the exposure needed to gain support and funding from other means in subsequent years. Ms. Collopy said site spoke with the director of the Citizens Utility Board that morning about partial funding through their Northern Illinois Energy Project. His response was enthusiastic and he requested that she submit a proposal to them. The Northern Illinois Energy Project is currently helping to fund many other projects in the area that support community efforts to reduce the utility burden on low and moderate income households, Last year they helped the city of Chicago purchase 500,000 energy -efficient bulbs for distribution to Chicago residents. While not as comprehensive ai the proposed Evanston Community Fair, the city of Chicago started a similar program 3 years ago offering low income residents free weatherization kits and tips on lowering utility bills. Thousands of Chicago residents attend these events each year with participation increasing as the word spreads. This year the program will host 16 events across Chicago, As utility costs, environmental health issues and concern over client change continue to rise, so does the need to ensure that low and moderate income households have access to information and resources that equip them with the necessary tools to face these obstacles to housing affordability. This proposed project supports the city of Evanston's goals to create programs that result in well -maintained, diverse housing stock, protect and optimize the city's natural resources and the environment and create collaborative and productive It � Housing a Community Develop nl Act Comminee Mae" Pape 6 October 30, 2007 partnerships between the city and the community. Rather than give low and moderate income households a one-time payment to help cover rising bills, this program will empower residents with the tools, information and resources needed to implement sustainable solutions that increase home affordability and provide the city with an opportunity to include an oflen- missed population in addressing our community's environmental sustainability issues. Aid. Rainey thanked her and asked her whether she is familiar with the CEDA Neighbors at Work MIcatherization program. Ms. Collopy said she is. Aid. Rainey asked her how they arc coordinating their programs. Ms. Collopy said she has spoken to Sarah Flax and her understanding is that there is a real need in Evanston to weatherize homes and that they haven't done much in Evanston and would like to do more. She added that she sees this as a great opportunity to give them exposure. Aid. Rainey was surprised to hear that CEDA Neighbors at Work has not been doing a lot of weatherization in Evanston. Ms. Flax said that she had spoken to Patricia Vance of CEDA and that she has told her that they are not doing very many full u-eatherizations in Evanston. Ms. Flax said they discussed identifying home owners with specific needs, some of whom may need a full weatherization assessment (where they install a blower door, etc.), and that they provide about $5,000 for each household's needs. They have told her they are not doing that many in Evanston relative to the rest of Chicago. Aid. Raincy said she used to run that program and they had 3 or 4 a day. She said she would like to find out what the problem is and that handing out kits does not compare with putting up storm windows, blowing insulation, etc. Aid. Rainey said Ms. Collopy's program may not be able to identify the needs as well as Neighbors at Work is able to. They have been dealing with the same families on the same blocks for 25 or 30 years, and that she is going to contact Ms. Vance. Aid. Bernstein asked Ms. Collopy if family only saves S5.00 on their energy bills per year, whether it is worth it. She replied that the education, though it may not be relevant for that person, has the potential to teach others. She said she believes that information is power and whether it is worth $5.00 or $200.00 to educate the public on these issues, it is worth it. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Ms. Collopy to clarify whether she is coordinating with CEDA Neighbors at Work. She replied that that is her intent. She very much wants them to be a big partner in this etTort because she believes that the services they provide are essential to this effort, if funded. Portland's program signed residents up for free weatherization services also. She has not met with CEDA yet because she said she was waiting until she had funding. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he would think she would want to build on what exists. She said, yes, absolutely. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what Nis. Flax meant by CEDA is not doing "that much." Ms. Flax responded that she spoke to them before Ms. Collopy started working at the city because it was linked to an attempt to coordinate the work being done by a group that was given a grant by the Evanston Community Foundation, to do weatherization. There are many different pieces and they were trying to figure out who would do what. Ms. Flax said Ms. Vance had told her she was doing the program but not with CDBG funds, so they met with Carolyn (the weatherization specialist at CEDA) and said she wanted to expand the Evanston part of the program. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said they need to have more discussion about the weatherization program. Network for Evanston Futures has a weatherization audit program, which we would have to provide the services once they do the audit, whether it would be a Handyman if it was a senior, or the rehab program if it involves greater needs. Aid. Rainey said that Cook County CEDA Weatherization program is highly funded, very expensive, and it includes an audit. Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Meetnq Page 7 October 30, 2007 They seal windows, do storm windows and doors, caulking and insulation. We need to know why they are not doing it as needed, because then is funding specifically for that. She is very concerned that we arc not being served. ,tiffs. Flax said she will get numbers from Ms. Vance and Carolyn (the weatherization specialist). Aid. Rainey asked if the Chicago Fair is open to the public. Ms. Collopy said she didn't think they limited by income, but she was not sure if Evanston residents could get a kit. She thought that they do I.D. them. Aid. Rainey said that energy fairs in Rosemont are open to the public and she hopes that we don't have to pay $32,200 to have an energy fair in Evanston, adding that when the Committee first heard about the energy fair, they understood that all the expenses were going to be from grants, but they didn't know it would be the CDBG grant. She asked that Ms. Collopy keep them informed about her progress in getting funding for the project. VII. HIJIMAN RELATIONS —HOUSING ADVOC.1CY Mr. Rafael Molinary, full time Housing Advocacy contact, introduced himself, explaining that his goal is to consult with all the residents who call, write, and email the city about their housing advocacy needs, and to empower them with information that allows them to approach their problems with the business information they need to address their problem at length and in the proper format. They get calls every day from landlords, tenants, condo owners and condo associations, and they are asked about housing rules. They get calls from people who are involved in neighborhood disputes, who are "at their wits' ends," which have resulted from personality conflicts to racial or ethnic bias. They allow anyone to come in and give their side of the story if they want them to mediate. They try to get the parties together to mediate for them. It is often dealing with a land issue, a neighboring tenant, an issue between the landlord and the tenant, and noisy neighbors. Their goal is to allow inhabitants quiet enjoyment of their premises. They have a fair housing component where they investigate fair housing cases that deal with most of the issued covered by the ordinance. They settled 2 cases in the last month with good outcome. Their service is to give people some ways in which to settle their housing conflicts and needs and give them a sense of empowerment that they are able to resolve these issues in a way that is not going to lead to court, or which is combative. He believes that you give people information, you provide them with a means to analyze their situation and help them come to it from a position of power and that they can work it out if they just get to the basic problem rather than to be combative. Often people don't necessarily settle their issues, but they leave them with more information, empowerment and better able to deal with the issue because they knew what their rights were, how to approach the issue, and enough information about the other person's view of the problem. The housing advocate remains neutral in dealing with the issues. He looks at every person involved and they present their best options to them, whether they are a tenant, a landlord or a condo association. There was a situation where a condominium board asked him for help to assess reasonable accommodation needs for a renter or a condo owner. He tries to teach that the problems are a learning process rather than adversarial. Last year they resolved most of the issues, measured by the fact that the callers stop calling them back. They do mediation and disperse information by telephone. Mr. Molinary introduced his co-worker, Cam Herth, who helps with this service part of the year and works on the Summer Youth Program 6-7 months of the year. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Molinary how many cases he heard about during a year. He responded that about 10% of their 1,000 cases a year call to ask what their rights are relative to discrimination in fair housing, accommodations pursuant to the landlord or the condominium board, or a neighbor dispute that starts out as a tenant landlord issue, but has a fair housing Housing 3 Cortxnunity Development Ad Con writtee Meeting Page a Odobet 30.2007 component. As he asks questions, he learns about the way the landlord treats different tenants. Aid. Rainey asked him to explain about the two important fair housing issues he resolved in the past year. Ile responded that he had two people who filed fair housing complaints in the last 6 months. One was a complaint that dealt with a neighbor who claims that a landlord was using the "N' word repeatedly to him when he was talking to him about his rental. The tenant had a race black caretaker who helped him with his physical disabilities and he claims that the landlord approached him and said "You can't have these "ns" here. You can't have them visit you and you can't have them as caretakers. You've got to avoid talking to these in the neighborhood." The outcome was that he started the initial investigation process and he sot the landlord's side and it turned out that the unequal treatment side of it was not a strong case because there was no proof of different treatment but he talked to both sides and the landlady denied ever using those words to the tenant. After all was said and done and there were all these denials, everyone decided to walk away. Since then the tenant withdrew his complaint and settled the case. He called Mr. Molinary recently to say there were sonic new other complaints and they will be meeting soon. The second case is of two race -black women who told Mr. Molinary that they had been treated differently because of their sexual orientation and race and the landlord claimed that they were not treated differently than anyone else. He is white. He said that their being gay and their race had nothing to do with this and in fact he treated other lesbians just as badly. This showed that the sexual orientation was not an issue, but there still might have been a race issue. As he got deeper into that investigation, both parties decided that it was uncomfortable to answer their instances of derogatoriness and they decided to meet amongst themselves and they settled it and withdrew their allegations. Sometimes Mr. Molinary writes the settlement and sometimes the parties themselves work it out. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Molinary, outside of mediation, whether they have any authority to impose any settlement or sanctions against anyone. Mr. Molinary responded that they do not. He asked whether they refer any of their cases to the Dept. of Human Rights. Mr. Molinary responded that they get many calls on race -related public accommodation discrimination and employment race discrimination in Evanston occurring in the private sector. They tell the caller what they have to prove, that our ordinances don't cover private sector. He has a list of all the jurisdictions that cover this public accommodation or employment. He tells them where they need to go, their operating hours, where to file their complaints, and he refers them to the authorities who have the jurisdiction to cover these areas. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how much time a day is spent mediating. Mr. Molinary responded that he needs to define mediation to answer the question. If the question is how many times do they call panics together and they agree and come and talk to them one on one, that is rare. They only have 2 or 3 of those a year. If mediation means talking to one side and the other side and going back and forth between the parties giving suggestions, they do that every day. Often the parties walk away in a different position than when they started. Mr. Molinary is able to convey the messages well by going back and forth between the parties. One judge ordered 2 people to have mediation sessions to settle a dispute. Mr. Molinary had 4 meetings with them and he believes it helped to resolve their situation. Aid. Rainey thanked him for his presentation. VIII. POLICE DEPARTMENT — SAFER NEIGHBORHOOD AREA PROJECT (SNAP) Chief Eddington stated that this is the first time the Police Dept. has ever applied for 2 grants in the same year. Ms. Amanda Jones is going to present the second of the two programs. He said the Police Dept. has reviewed the programs and finds merit in both of the programs. • '1 Housing & C.ors many Development Act Comn*tee Meeting Peg* 9 October 30, 2007 Officer Tanya Noble introduced herself, and stated that she is assigned to the problem solving team. For the past 2 years she has been assigned to Beat 602, which serves predominantly the 5`h Ward of the city. She worked at a grass roots level with Aid. Holmes and the citizens in these areas to reduce crime and strengthen the partnership between the police and the community. She uses a problem oriented policing model, called POP to examine problems and determine an effective strategy to reduce and eliminate crime. POI' places a high value on responses that are preventive in nature and solutions are not often dependent on the use of the criminal justice system. It is a proactive model. The process of POP employs scanning, analyzing, response and assessment. It often involves other public agencies, the community and the private sector in the strategics. During the past 2 years, she has examined areas that have experienced chronic crime and disorder. Incidents such as shootings, gang and drug activity, disturbances, juvenile violence and domestic disputes are common occurrences. She has spoken to the children who live there, who openly talk about guns and the fear of being shot while inside their homes. She has heard their parents who complain that their children's friends and their own families won't visit them because of where they live. She has met elderly residents who are afraid to leave their homes. It is not uncommon to find that 25-30 serious police calls per month are the norm. She asked herself what it was about these areas that made them more prone to violence and crime than other areas within Evanston, why are offenders drawn to this location and how can we change this dynamic, but most importantly, if we are going to make Evanston the most livable city in the area, why we shouldn't make these areas livable first. She started to look at the big picture. She found several similarities in each of these areas. The problems were long term and chronic, some 20 years or more in existence. Most are within the CDBG target area, there are a large number of rental unit properties, the buildings in the surrounding properties are in poor condition, they are littered, there is poor public and private lighting, there are a higher number of vacant properties and there is a lack of neighborhood groups. There is apathy and a sense of hopelessness. Many will say it's never going to change. She quoted from the book Death in the Life ofGreat American Cities, by Jane Jacobs, "The basis of community security is a strong sense of social cohesion and a feeling of control over one's home turf. Research indicates that crime and disorder foster withdrawal, inhibit cooperation between neighbors and discourages people from making efforts to protect themselves and their community." Neighborhood safety is not the sole responsibility of law enforcement. It is the duty of everyone who lives and works in the neighborhood: police, fire, property standards, community development, forestry, streets and sanitation, property managers and the community. We cannot have safe neighborhoods without buy -in from all of these. Currently, city service agencies and police respond and provide their individual attention to these areas but we have failed to provide an organized collaborative response. We lack a defined methodology for performing our individual actions in a coherent, consistent, accountable and repeatable manner. The city devotes a large amount of departmental resources to these locations on an ongoing basis, seemingly without sustainable results. When we are successful in reducing disorder and the results appear to be positive, we are often unable to form an adequate assessment of why since we are not certain of each individual participant's contribution. She began to examine the best practices across the nation. Out of the desire to develop a more unified measurable response emerged the Safer Neighborhood Area Project (SNAP) and the SNAP team. The vision is to develop a SNAP project team — a multi -disciplined task force that will use a methodical approach to evaluate and respond to crime and disorder in areas defined as safer neighborhood project areas. The SNAP team would be comprised of police, city administrators, community strategy, forestry, property standards, senior services, social services, streets and sanitation, the health department, community development, whoever it is deemed necessary to include dependent on the initial assessment of a project area. These individuals are all existing city staff Housing & Comnvinity Deveornent Act Comrmtteo Meeting Page 10 October 30, 2007 members and most currently devote their resources to the affected areas. In order to provide continuity in the process of establishing safer neighborhoods and to be able to assess and sustain the changes, we need to fashion a template - a common viewfinder through which each city service agency can see and organize a collaborative measured response. If we are all looking through our own individual lenses of expertise, freelancing, as we are currently, we are not going to see the big picture or address the systemic problems. The template for this project is the training component. CPTED, Crime Prevention through Environmental Design. The training of 12-15 city staff in the principles of crime prevention through environmental design will allow each individual in the process to bring their individual expertise to the table while making a collective assessment of a targeted area using the CPTED principles, Crime prevention through environmental design is the application of a range of design principles to minimize the potential for crime. In theory, it makes it more difficult for offenders to commit crimes and it also influences a person's perception about their safety. It uses natural surveillance, natural access, territorial reinforcement and image maintenance to reduce crime. We are not talking about building walls and lighting up the neighborhoods. We are talking about using natural means to reduce crime through these principles. The principles are used world wide as a best practice by architects, city planners, police, community development specialists and other professionals. It is also the primary tool used in crime free housing programs. Crime free housing programs are utilized internationally to arm property owners with skilled design to reduce crime, drugs and gangs on private rental properties. Using planning processes and community development models, a safer neighborhoods plan empowers residents to take the lead in the process facilitated by the SNAP team who will study crime issues, assess problems and needs in order to develop alternatives, set priorities and implement a plan for neighborhood action to create safe neighborhoods. The underlying principles for this program are: the safer neighborhoods project team, a collaborative partnership between police and city agencies who will perform site assessments and provide short and long term recommendations leveraging current resources, the CPTED principle, which is the evaluation template used by the SNAP team, to reduce risk and crime and improve image maintenance, and the community involvement. Citizen involvement is critical to identifying issues and problems, creating ownership and ultimately implementing the program. This develops the foundation for positive community action. This CDBG grant request to fund the safer neighborhoods project and CPTED training are critical components of change in the city's strategic mission of strengthening the community. Through the implementation of best practices the evaluation and refinement of public safety strategies, and the collaborative efforts of city service providers, we can be assured of a higher quality of life for all members of our diverse population. Ald. Rainey asked her to explain about coordination, saying that the next proposal they are going to hear is for S30,000 for neighborhood security. She said Officer Noble was asking for exactly the same kind of tools in her program, as far as she could see. its. Flax addressed the question: This is not quite the same, One of the challenges is to make SNAP work in HUD's terms: multiple projects that allow us to fund different activities in I -IUD different categories. The Neighborhood Security Program is in the area of housing rehab. That keeps it out of the Public Services cap. Some of the activities that Officer Noble has listed, that would be funded in the SNAP program itself, fall into that public services category. One of the challenges in trying to show this program as a holistic program, but divide it into categories for HUD purposes. Officer Noble clarified that the grant she is asking for is $8,600.00 of which the predominant amount is the CPTED training. Ald. Rainey clarified that her program is going to be Ho"np A Community Development Act C —ry tee Meeting October 30, 2007 Pape 11 encouraging fencing, fighting; where appropriate, etc. Officer Noble explained that the prototype she used is a progr= that was funded by the State of Washington, called the Safe Neighborhood Program. When she started looking at prototypes of programs, she recognized that many times the city resources are being used across the board to tackle these types of issued but were not doing it in a coordinated manner. There is the safety and security issue that she was speaking of. That program actually pays for the physical changes of security on residential properties. Aid. Rainey said her program would be involved in that, and that they are already doing security surveys. Officer Noble said she is already doing that but she has no training in a formal crime prevention through environmental design or any kind of technique that allows her to look at a property other than the basic security measures. Aid. Rainey asked about Ms. Demski of the Site Plan and Appearance Review Committee who advises the applicants on strategies for security. She asked if Ms. Demski has that type of training. Ms. Flax explained that the differences in many of the parts of this are being used in individual instances but the SNAP program pulls them together for these targeted neighborhoods. It doesn't mean neighborhood security wouldn't still exist for individual building owners who want to pursue that. Aid. Rainey said the only reason they should be pursuing it is to make their property more secure and the reason they want to make it more secure is because they're having issues in their neighborhood. Officer Noble explained that the bigger picture issue here is the individual responsibility and need to secure their personal properties, but she is speaking of the fact that their current focus within the communities is very disjointed. There is not a collaborative approach to dealing with some of those crime and disorder issues in the individual neighborhoods. They could fortify all of the houses on the block but if they're not looking at the dynamic within the block or the area itself and using the resources in the city in a cohesive fashion, that means, when you look at the bigger picture, she has tried to show that it is not just about crime. It is about the physical structures within the neighborhood. Aid. Rainey said it seems that they ebb and flow. Problem solving teams have been very effective during certain years and then not so at other times. She has seen property standards, the police, the health department, forestry, go down the block and do a fabulous job and then a year will go by and you don't see that any more, so she knows exactly what Office Noble is talking about, it just seems that she is wondering what kind of training Ms. Demski has, but that is only for new projects and not existing neighborhoods anyway. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he was very impressed by Officer Noble's presentation and he appreciates the analysis of the state of current affairs and how can we move the process forward in enhancing security and the sense of security for those who live in those neighborhoods, He thinks that this kind of approach is worth supporting, because ultimately the other approaches that we have going on, the security measures, etc. are all good and well but the vigilance that would be brought to this effort to coordinate all aspects is very important in addressing the insecurity in these neighborhoods. Hopefully we can spread that vigilance in other parts of the city down the line. Aid. Rainey said she thinks we should but, if we have an effective staff, why can't we do that? That is what bothers her. She said Officer Noble's idea is exactly what we all hope for, but we're not hiring any new people. Office Noble said the difference between what we are currently doing; and what she sees as the vision of this project is, we need to engage the community. And in the past, when you talk about the police, forestry, etc., going out there, cleaning up the block and then it goes away, because you have to empower the community to continue on and to have the pride in their neighborhood to believe that the change is sustainable. Aid. Rainey said she has seen real discouragement on the part of some of her constituents that they are not getting the cooperation they want from our staff, from the police department all the way down to the community development staff. Officer Noble said it is frustrating; for those of them who have .uni ► wslnp a Com"u,ay Deve4opment Ad Comm+ttes Meetmq Page 12 Qclober 30.2007 their heart in it and are wanting to make the people in these community's lives comparable to other areas of the city that don't have a lot of the systematic problems. Aid. Jcan-Baptiste asked who the SPAARC staff member I that Aid. Rainey referred to. Officer Noble replied that is Kerry Demski, who is a crime prevention specialist. She contributes to the committee making suggestions about safety to the applicants. She would be a member of the staff that would go through the CPTED training. Aid. Hansen said that what she is hearing is a much more proactive approach than she has heard in terms of discussing crime issues. A lot of times the reaction is that we need more police officers, but she thinks this is a more proactive approach. Ms. Demski has come to some of Aid. Hansen's neighborhood meetings and she has put on a wonderful presentation on ho'v to organize a neighborhood watch group and what she is hearing from Officer Noble is, this is a lot more than just a neighborhood coming together and organizing a watch group. Officer Noble said that this approach has many levels of neighborhood involvement, She has had 6 or 8 months of dialogue with Aid. Holmes about this project's approach to infusing crime prevention into the community through the community, and what it does that neighborhood watch does not do. Neighborhood watch asks neighbors to report crime, it asks neighbors to have a positive image of their neighborhood and care enough, but they do not really have any tools for building up people that have been subjected to long term and chronic problems in their areas. You have a hard time getting people to come to the meetings to have any buy -in whatsoever. The activists you do have, become burned out very rapidly because they feel like it is like pulling teeth to get people to contribute. The first part of the safer neighborhood project is to involve the neighborhood at the grass roots level at evaluating the neighborhood. We are asking them what are you seeing and there are many different community development approaches used, depending on the type of response you want from the neighborhood and it not only involves the neighbors. It involve key members of our city staff, which we have not done in a collaborative approach. She worked ? years in the 5`h Ward. Aid. Holmes would say they have done a fabulous job of turning around some of the neighborhood, but unfortunately there are those areas of chronic disorder that they have not been able to even broach the topic of getting people to come to the meetings. They've talked about it and the discussion always goes back to the sheer fact that its always been like that. It doesn't have to always be like that — we have to use a different approach. You can't do ilia same thing, as Einstein says, and expect different results. It's insanity. That is what Officer Noble feels after 2 years in the unit. That is what she has seen. When she started to look at the bigger picture she realized that there are best practices out there and we don't have to reinvent the wheel. We just have to be able to copy them and use the theories that best fit our needs. She added that she honestly believes that the city of Evanston is a walkable city and the CPTED principles are used internationally to create walkable cities and safe cities. When she looks at the neighborhoods she sees issues of lighting and streets and sanitation. She can look at a neighborhood and recognize what some of the problems are in those structural entities. What harm does it do, she asked, to give those people that are already doing a fabulous job within the infrastructure of the city, the tools they need to look at it from a deterrent perspective, to prevent and deter it. She thinks it is worth its weight in gold. The grant is for S8,600, the bulk of which is for the CPTED training. Aid. Rainey said she is very excited, if Officer Noble thinks it will work, but as an Alderman of a ward that has had its problems. In the beginning of this year, they had a meeting on problems in her ward where at least 100 people showed up. The City Manager and every department head showed up. They listened intently, the City Manger said, "You respond to this, you respond to this" and there were serious orders given. They had a follow-up meeting. Houwq & Community t7eveto M Act Committee Mostrg Paps 13 Oc&Dbw 30, 2007 People are very cynical, she warned, because not one iota of change took place as far as most anyone could see. It's a problem. Change needs to happen more quickly than it does in this town. So, she told Officer Noble, if she thinks this program will bring it, "Let's fund it." Aid. Bernstein said he thinks the program sounds wonderful. Any new potential model is wonderful. His concern is that it is coming from the Police Dept. rather than the City Manager's office. Enhanced lighting is not something that the Police Dept. is going to complete. He said she might suggest it as they all have been for years. Empowering a neighborhood by cleaning, up the alleys and graffiti and stopping the fly dumping, that is not something the Police Department is going to do. You can identify it. He has no problem funding a program like this because we do need to empower communities. His experience is that the mobilization happens when people are frightened by the crime in their community. After whatever methods are used and crime either abates or moves out of the community, things quiet down and people no longer feel at risk and they get more apathetic, One thing he said they have to be careful of is that they are talking in terms of a sense of security versus real security. He doesn't want to give people a sense of security unless we can back it up. If you have a sense of a security you're not going to be as vigilant as you should be. Officer Whitehead talks about the hackles on your neck coming up if you sense something is amiss. The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority is a funding agent for federal funds for project safe neighborhood. They are doing it all over the neighborhoods, and we should apply for those funds. There is a lot of money out there without the restrictions that CDBG funds have. He said we should apply for those funds not just for this, but for methods by which she can expand upon this program. Ald. Rainey asked, regarding the SNAP operational standards, where it says, "the team will examine candidates for SNAP by collecting historical data from team member departments" whether the candidates are the neighborhoods or people to serve on the team. Officer Noble clarified that this would not be driven by the Police Dept. The funding for the CPTED training is the recommendation of the Police Dept. but she has had an ongoing dialogue about a safer neighborhoods project, The ball has been rolling for about a month or more and they have been talking about uniting city services. Officer Noble continued that in the grant she mentions Block X, which is an actual block in the City of Evanston where some of the things have started already in midsummer regarding some of the infrastructure, (lighting and that type of thing). That process has already begun by the department that handles that. They've increased the lighting and checked the electrical circuits to determine if it could take an even larger increase in lighting, but she is not versed in that, so it can't be driven by the Police Dept., because the focus is reduction of crime and they never want to give the perception of someplace being safe when its not. That was the unfortunate thing about putting cameras all over the city. Sometimes it gives people a false sense of security, where it should not. What gives people a sense of security is, knowing their surroundings and being involved in what is happening around them and being aware enough that when something is awry, they have the gift of fear, rather than being sheltered in their homes, unaware. The training would be financed through the grant but the project itself is going to have to he a cohesive, collaborative program that has city service providers on the SNAP project team who would make an assessment of a neighborhood based on several factors. In the grant application, it describes some of those factors. It could be crime statistics, continuous complaints of illegal activity, but it would be decided once they move forward. The prototype, the safe neighborhoods workbook shows several neighborhoods in Washington, where they've actually set goals for the safe neighborhoods. "One of the first steps in this particular east central neighborhood within the city of Washington is, create a safe neighborhood for the east Housing & Community Deveiotxnent Act Committee Meeting Papa t< October 30.2007 central plan, (which would be the first step, determining the neighborhood)., Officer Noble explained. We'd develop and apply CPTED principles and practices to that particular neighborhood. We'd study and assess the community policing and the programs which include identifying existing and potential services and activities to address crime. Then we'd study the perception of crime and incorporate into neighborhood actions for safe neighborhoods. We'd assess the neighborhood and conditions to recognize and assess code enforcement, neighborhood cleanup, and a range a processes including CPTED audits to support safe neighborhoods and create a positive neighborhood image through design." (At that point they would look at individual properties and do CPTED analysis and determine if they do indeed need security enhancements or if the city could provide them some of the grant money to do those security enhancements.) "Then we're going to create the neighborhood priorities for a safe neighborhood and establish a program to carry out the actions and activities to create a safe neighborhood." All of the steps arc outlined but also, the types of individuals that you want to have on a project team like this are outlined. She said that Judy Aiello already knows, because she told her, unequivocally, that they tried to do this very same thing about IO years ago within the 51h Ward and the Alderman at the time said no. Aid. Rainey said the University of Illinois brought trainers to the city and they met on several occasions with community members, training to organize neighborhoods. She asked whether Office Noble is familiar with that group. She replied that she is and that they offer a lot of services to the city of Chicago regarding their CAPS program. She believes in the partnership with the neighbors. That is the most effective means of understanding a community's dynamics of crime as well as the social structure in the community. She thinks that that is well and good for someone who wants to be engaged, but she is talking about those individuals that have lost all hope because the city does not do a good job of listening to them. The city is motivated by the individuals that are calling the police and reporting the crimes. If they're not calling and reporting the crime and they're not saying we want an active neighborhood group, then they are getting lost in the shuffle. Every Alderman knows those types of blocks where there is a large number of elderly residents that do not have the energy or the ambition to be a member of a neighborhood group, yet they still need to have the same support and proactive intervention that a program would be able to give them. It would induce not only those who want to be involved. It would be an outreach. They would use senior service advocates to go out into the community and we do that now, but they would do it in a structured, collaborative approach, as opposed to piecemeal, one individual at a time, which is the way they are doing it now. They are tackling individual properties instead of entire neighborhoods. Aid. Rainey asked who the candidates are again. 0McerNoble replied that the candidates are blocks. She has identified 6 blocks within the 5`h Ward where they have had people screaming that they need help and they need to understand what is happening there. She is sure that each Alderman could think of blocks in their wards that could benefit from a focused approach to safer neighborhoods. Mr. Richmond commended her on her presentation and passion. Officer Noble responded that she loves this community. She had been looking for this type of approach but didn't know how to pull it together until Amanda Jones came to her about the prospect of grant funding and she said she has the perfect project. Aid. Bernstein will talk further with Officer Noble about other federal funding sources. IX. POLICE DEPARTMENT —SENIOR CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM Ms. Amanda Jones, Senior Crime Prevention Specialist, introduced herself and clarified, regarding SNAP, that they have the opportunity, based on the cost of this training, not just to train the community crime specialists or others within the Police Department. They can also Housing 3 Community Deveiopff*nt Act Coymaee Meelenp Pape 13 October 30, 2007 bring in people from Evanston Fire and Rescue who deal with property complaints, representatives of the Health Department to sit on this task force who can be trained in this template. They can bring in people from the City Manager's office, planning, streets and sanitation — whatever city departments are involved in the health, safety, well-being and maintenance of property. all for the cost of this training. When she and Officer Noble were talking about it, Officer Noble told her that she used to run a camera store. People would come in and they all had different lenses on the cameras. People were all looking at the same thing but seeing it differently. All of them are already employed by the city of Evanston, they all bring their expertise to the table. What they have not had is a common framework. That is the SNAP team, in essence. They would be the task force. Ms. Jones began her presentation about the Senior Crime Prevention Program by saying that this past year has been a year of change. The needs of the people she helps are changing as well. At present national elder law is a non -starter in Washington. The response to crime against older people and its prevention must therefore be a local matter. Here people retire in place and increasing numbers are moving to Evanston to have the quasi -urban experience without all the urban hassles. They may retire younger or be more active and may think they are too sophisticated to fall for some of the crimes that afflicted their parents. While they are not as likely to be taken in by the Nigerian minister of Defense scam, they will be more prone to investment schemes, fly-by-night intemet frauds like phishing and pharming and as devotees of adventure travel rather than elder hostel, intemet travel schemes, safety and security issues all need to be a part of the prevention strategies that she knows, uses and teaches. Ms. Jones stated that she and Mr. Richmond discussed how substance abuse affects older adults, and the need for her to have resources for that problem. She made many referrals in the past to local agencies and support systems and she cannot directly assist an addict, she can be non judgementally supportive and continue to refer them to helpful organizations. Last year she said she wanted to get more resources ready for veterans. The veterans' issues require a variety of support services. She is learning about government and private and peer support agencies. She sited some examples of her work: Mr. X, after several years of dealing with an ill spouse and a financially abusive adult child, went through the process of obtaining guardianship to protect his wife. It was not easy, but over the months she was able to encourage him to do so, as did the elderly abuse advocate from Metropolitan Family Services. His situation has stabilized. Mr. X is more comfortable and working proactively with his wife's caretaker. Their financial health has improved and safeguards are in place to keep it that way. Mr. X calls her now up front when he has concerns about the abusive adult child's behavior and she has put special watches in place regarding this issue. fie elicited the assistance of his neighbors, who are also protective of Mr. X and his home and will not hesitate to call police. Ms. B has been way too generous with so-called charities over many years, and as such has been scammed many times. For the last several years, she would call ,Ms. Jones to tell her that she had been scammed. They would then close accounts and file police reports but eventually Ms. B would fall prey to the same scammers or new ones. Now she calls Ms. Jones before she sends money, has gotten her removed from many mailing lists, have determined which of her benefactors are worthy, and she shares examples with Ms. Jones to help her make others aware. Today she told Ms. Jones that after receiving several suspicious phone calls, she told the caller that she is working with Ms. Jones at the Evanston Police Dept. and hung up. Mrs. M has worked with Ms. Jones on several issues and has referred others to her. Recently she brought mail that was coming to her house addressed to someone else, although she had Housing & Community Development Act Convnittee Ufttrg Pape is OctoW 30, 2007 been living there for several years. She was concerned because Mrs. M is debt free and mortgage free and the mail had such return addresses as "mortgage insurance" "mortgage deed" or began with "Welcome New Neighbor." With a few phone calls to Cook County offices she determined that the problem was not a clerical error and Ms. Jones suspected mortgage fraud was being perpetrated on her. At her request, Cook County initiated their own investigations and a police report was filed that day and it is now in the hands of the detective bureau. Mrs. M trusted Ms. Jones enough to bring the mail to her, preventing herself from becoming the victim of serious financial fraud, as has happened to others who have ignored such mail. Ms. Jones has built up a relationship of openness and trust which has allowed her to help the individuals in the examples above. This year's goals included distribution of file of life medical emergency cards, the seniors on safety crime prevention manual, crime prevention tip sheets and educational handouts on pertinent subjects such as mortgage fraud and phony check scams. For the first 2 quarters of the year she has exceeded most program goals including the free distribution of 231 file of life cards, 143 senior crime manuals and written up TIF sheets once a month (on average) since March that she distributes at the Levy Center, through Senior Service and building newsletters, the Commission on Aging and at presentations. One handout she distributed was in response to older minority residents who are suspicious of police and wish to access their services anonymously, or who are afraid of retaliation if they report criminal activity. This special handout may make them feel more comfortable about calling police when needed. She has made many referrals through police reports or calls to graffiti victims and she has an overwhelming response to the graf iiti program. She has posted crime prevention columns and alerts on the senior services page on the website She tries to be responsive to the needs of the aging respectfully and proactively. She is frank but cooperative with staff of senior housing facilities, addressing tenants who let others use their address who do not live there, who bring undesirables into the building, putting every one else at risk, and other security issues. In the last year, certain high risk residents who have refused to respect the safety of others by harboring registered sex offenders or stealing from other residents, have been evicted. She is frugal and has no benefits as a part time employee. She received an award from the Illinois Atty. General's office for attending the Advanced Elderly Service Officer Training. She goes to free seminars and training and often pays her own fees. She did the Community Crime Specialist's job for 17 months along with her own. In the past 8 and a half years she has received 2 departmental awards, been given one state award and has been included in another, received 4 awards from local organizations, I national award, and her program has been named a best practice by 2 national organizations. Her last 3 supervisors have nominated her for department, national and state recognition which was, in each case, granted her. She believes the need for this program still exists and continues to change and there is much more that she can do. She is grateful for not only the financial support but for the moral and ethical support and guidance the CDBG Committee has provided her and has allowed her to do what she does for seniors. Aid. Rainey thanked her for her hard work and said that she has been watching the daily bulletin and she has not seen any senior residences listed, Ms. Jones said that in some cases, the families did not even know that their addresses were being used on arrest reports and they've had to have some very "frank and serious" discussions with those residents. AId. Rainey suggested that the City Manager's office may be able to provide her with training money. X. PARKS, FORESTRY & RECREATION — FLEE77FOOD JOURDAIN IMPROVEMENT Housing A Community Development Act Committee Meeting Pogo 17 October 30, 2001 Mr. Bob Domiker introduced himself and explained that the project they are requesting funding for is specific improvement of the kitchen area and the arts and crafts room of the Fleetwood Jourdain Center. The kitchen is a very vital part of the center and part of the programming. They use is for preparing the snacks for their after school program, an after school cooking class, FAAM uses it for their Saturday basketball and breakfast program and for the senior nutrition program during the week. The arts and crafts room, on the other side of the building, is used heavily by their summer camp programs, their after school programs, affiliated groups, small parties and community organization meetings. The project entails the replacement of cabinets, countertops and sinks in those 2 rooms. The current building materials were installed in approximately 1986 and the improvements would correct the current code problems they are having with ADA accessibility in the space. There is only a 2' working space in the kitchen area. They would redesign it to include some lower cabinets and replace the upper cabinets in both rooms. The cabinets are made out of formica and pressboard and they are falling apart. They have been repaired many times by the Facilities Management Department, along with the sinks. Some of the plumbing is original and 50 years old and they have done some patch work on it. The replacement of the plumbing in both the kitchen and the arts and crafts room would be a great improvement. It would help in the continued maintenance of the city's recreation center at Fleetwood and they would hope to have it completed by the end of the year if approved. Aid. Rainey said that the senior nutritional program has been going on for 30 years. She said it used to have 30 or 40 participants and asked if it is still very active. He replied that is does have active participation on some days but there are a lot of meals that are delivered by the Meals on Wheels program. He said that Stefanie Levine of the Parks Dept. will help them coordinate it through the Facilities Management Dept. so they can get the work done this year. There will be some design work done by a consultant to help them be sure to comply with the codes. She added that his proposal was really good. XI. PUBLIC WORKS —ALLEY IMPROVEbfENT PROGRAM Mr. David Jennings introduced himself and explained that they have used CDBG funds for both specific alley projects and to supplement the regular alley improvement program, where they use the funds for the program in general, in order to get more alleys done. This particular alley is a specific one with a different twist. This program is a porous asphalt alley, so it is a green alley. It is more complementary to the environment. It is not a hard alley in the sense that all the water is captured and runs to the sewer system. In a porous (asphalt) alley pavement, the underlayment of the alley is such that it takes water. The surface of the alley gives it the water. It does not collect the water and send it to the sewer system, it allows the water to drain through the alley and into the underlying base. The alley they are recommending is one they have recommended before but were not be able to get the total funding for. They applied for it this last year but did a different alley last year. it is unusual in that the cast west legs are both already paved with concrete. They are proposing the north south leg. It is located north of Linden, east of Custer. It is adjacent to the tracks on one side and a combination of businesses and residential on the other. They are going to use the specifications, if approved, that Chicago is using. They have a trial program with 5 alleys that they have done this way. Their spec seems to be very good. They have visited the alleys with Chicago's engineers and they think it is a good way to go. It will be black (not green). Aid. Rainey said she thinks the porous alley is a very good new idea. She asked whether it includes regular drainage structures. He replied that it is done both ways. Prior to 11110ol Housing 3 Comnindy Development Act Co mttae MwaV Pays Is October 34.2007 construction, in the design process, you drill test boring and it determines how much the alley can take. They haven't done any borings yet but they believe the soil is good so they won't have to put any drainage in it. If the soil is not as receptive to water or can't hold water, for instance if it is more of a clay base, then you might put an alley drainage system in. Based on his experience, he believes that the soil in this area can take the drainage without the pipe. The engineers in Chicago recommend that they drill the test holes, do the analysis to the soil, and then determine what type of drainage is needed. Ald. Rainey said that one of the things Mr. Jennings has always told her (in A & PW) is that the drainage structures are what make alleys expensive. S 175,000 is the funding request. She asked how much it would be to put in a regular alley. They got S75,000 last year. The alley they did with that money has been completed and looks good. It is east of Elmwood and south of Crain. There will be no special assessment applied to this. Aid. Bernstein said this alley is north of the Biscuit Lofts, east of Custer and behind the condo/townhome development. He recalled that when the City gave them the ability to do their development of town homes and condos, that they were supposed to contribute to this alley. Aid. Hansen said that last year Mr. Wolinski checked on whether they were to contribute, and the answer was no, they were not. Aid., Bernstein said that in his recollection they were supposed to and that this alley will primarily serve them and even though it is in the CDBG target area, these are to be, he supposes, more expensive homes than moderate to low income people can afford. Aid. Bernstein asked if they are going to wait until the construction is done to do the alley. Mr. Jennings said he doesn't know what their schedule is, but that they try to work with development in the area and adjust the timing accordingly. Aid. Bernstein said they have created a sales space on Main Street where BJ Antiques was. He thinks that they should be contributing although we can't force them, and also that he doesn't want them to make a mess after we've built the alley. Aid. Hansen said that she asked John Burke the same question and he assured her that they would not spend the money and time to do this new alley until the construction was complete. The developers of the townhome/condos have a construction permit. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked, since it will not benefit low to moderate income people even though it is in the CDBG target area, why we can't ask for them money. Mr. Jennings replied that he is not familiar with the developer. To the north there are 3 or 4 town homes, whose part the city would subsidize. Mr. Jennings said they have been trying to get that alley done for years. He said there is nothing to stop them from asking for a contribution and agreed to try to get the developers to contribute to the cost of the green alley. Aid. Rainey thanked him. XII. PUBLIC WORKS — BLOCK CURB AND SIDEIVALK PROGRAM Mr. Jennings explained that they try to fund this program every year. They think it is worthwhile. They replace deteriorated curbs and sidewalks in the target area. It helps the pedestrians get through, it helps the drainage of water because when you do the block curb program, it establishes a good Flow line, which you may not have had before if the curb was deteriorated. They are asking for S 125,000 this year. They definitely have the need to spend whatever is allocated. In general, he believes the Public Works department does a good job of spending the allocated funds to get a good product for the community. Mr. Jennings said that they are getting ready to do the sidewalk assessment. They do the curbs when they do the streets because it is part of the street infrastructure. They did the curbs when they did the 5 year plan. Sidewalks are different. They have a component in the multimodal transportation plan which deals with pedestrians. That component is one where they are going to assess the conditions of all sidewalks, not only the existing sidewalks but look at where the gaps are, where they need to extend sidewalks where there are none now and prioritize those as part of the transportation plan. The status of the plan is that they are negotiating who they Hou&UV & Cortxrx,ni y Development Act Committee Meeting papa 10 October 30, 2007 are going to recommend to council to do this job. It is a very comprehensive plan. It has the sidewalks, bus and rail transit, a bike component (they are finishing up the bike lanes around town) and they are looking at bike racks. Aid. Rainey asked whether extending sidewalks where there are none now is very controversial. Mr. Jennings replied that it is, and that they've done it rarely. Within the last couple of years they did one next to James Park. If you look at Oakton between Dodge and the bike path in Skokie, there was no real connection. When it goes in front of homes, there are people who don't want sidewalks, for instance on Dobson. People who live there don't want them. People who don't live there but walk by there, do want them. Aid. Rainey asked whether they would do a special assessment if they did sidewalks in front of peoples' houses. Mr. Jennings replied that they have not identified how they would do it. Whether it is special assessment or just a city funded C1P project, remains to be seen. He agreed that putting a sidewalk where people have been using that as their lawn for decades is controversial. They don't like to give up what they perceive as their property. Aid. Rainey said she thinks it is more that they don't want to shovel. There has to be some prioritizing. There might be some places where you have a missing link that is less important so you wouldn't do that one but you might have one where 100 people a day walk in the street with baby strollers and with their children and those would be a higher priority, but those may also be controversial. Aid. Rainey added that we spend a lot of money on accessible curbing. She has seen areas where there is an accessible curb and then a sidewalk, and then a big hedge, and that is where the sidewalk stops. She commented that the bike lanes are beautiful and that everyone is talking about them. Aid. Rainey said that the public should know that this is not happening immediately. XIII. PUBLIC WORKS —ADA CURB RAMP PROGRAAf Mr. Brian Barnes, Inclusion Specialist for the Health Dept., introduced himself and stated that the program is a collaborative effort between Health and I luman Services and the Public Works Dept. The purpose of the program is to remove and replace noncompliant curb ramps with ramps that are built to the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act's accessibility guidelines. The program is entering its 8's year and they have replaced nearly 800 noncompliant ramps. They prioritize to cover the CDBG target areas first. The way they determine which curb ramps are in need are: they receive requests from all over the city, they solicit requests from an advertisement on Channel 16 and in the Highlights newsletter, and from citizens. Mr. Barnes or one of Mr. Jennings' staff members assesses the ramps. They bid out the contract and construction takes place in the fall. They just finished this year's construction. This year they completed ramps on South Blvd. near Sheridan Road, in the 51s Ward and in Aid. Rainey's ward. Construction costs approximately 5600 - 5800 per ramp, depending on the size of the ramp. It is a 2 day process that involves pouring a portion of the ramp the first day. The second day the contractor pours a special type of red dye that is mixed in the cement and when that portion of the curb that is closest to the street is laid out, you get the detectable warnings in the sidewalk that are the little bumps you see in them. Those are for people that have visual impairment or low vision so they can differentiate where the sidewalk ends and the street begins. The program has been very successful in resolving accessibility issues in the target areas and has been able to improve access to areas such as parks and businesses as well. The program to date has spent 5350,000 and it is consistent with the HUD objective of removing architectural barriers. This year they would like to expand the program so they can go to the other wards and prioritize locations in the other wards, considering that they have had more requests from citizens outside of the target area and most HoLmhv & Conumnity Development Ad Comminee Meeting Pag* 20 OQobw 30, 2007 of the target area has been done. The program's success is due to the Committee's continued support and he hopes they will continue to do so. They are asking for $100,000. Aid. Rainey commented that the work looks great. "Better than the old ones did." Mr. Jennings explained that the process has evolved over time. The standards change and the current standard is a very good visual and tactile warning to folks. He agrees that the more recent ones are very good looking. Aid. Bernstein asked Ms. Mary Fricdl, an objective bystander, a wheelchair user and a citizen of Evanston, her opinion. She replied that they are great. Hers, an old style one, is pitched right, so it's fine. Aid. Rainey asked whether Mr. Barnes gets responses to the emails he sends out. He replied that it depends on the year. This past year he has only gotten 3 or 4 responses from the public. They find that driving around with the engineers in areas that are of concern is the best way to End which ones need to be done. Mr. Jennings added that they include the ramps in all of their roadway projects, both alleys and roadway resurfacing, to leverage the money to get more done than can be done out of this program, adding that he agrees that it has been very successful. Aid. Rainey asked if it would be included when they redo Ridge. Mr. Jennings replied that not every corner on Ridge can be made accessible. Some of the stairs are 5 steps high but as long as you can make the intersection accessible, you don't have to fix every stair. Wherever it is possible, they are already designed in, and the ones that they needed to get waivers for, the waivers have already been granted, so the design is already in place. Mr. Richmond said that since they only got 3 or 4 responses from the public, he suggested communicating with some of the streets and sanitation people to get some input on which corners need to be done. He said a man named Dave McCray is out there who is a fantastic city employee, and he identifies things all over the city. Mr. Barnes said he is willing and able to take suggestions from anyone at any time. If the Aldermen have specific curbs that they want looked at, he will be happy to look at them and evaluate them. Aid. Rainey asked to be included when he sends out his email. He agreed. XIV. HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES — ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR THE DISABLED Ms. Elisa Dean, Community Intervention Coordinator, introduced herself and explained that her request is for funding for adaptive equipment for children and adults with disabilities. She expressed her appreciation for the Committee's many years of support for the program and she wishes to expand the program to include children in need of special equipment. The reason she is asking for funding for this program is that over the last few years she has received an increased number of requests from parents and caregivers of children and adults needing assistance in obtaining equipment that would allow the caregivers to assist their children in daily activities, assist clients in maintaining their level of independence and making it possible for them to stay in their homes with their families and in the community instead of in a nursing home or a rehab facility. Many of these clients are wheelchair users and have limited upper body trunk function. The equipment parents are asking for is often high end and insurance doesn't cover it, for example, a bath chair that has seat belts built in to hold the client in an upright position. Because this special equipment will not fall under the guidelines of adaptive devices, the Committee has funded so nicely over the last 4 years, by agreeing to fund this program, the Committee will make it possible for the city to serve an important need that exists. By serving that need these people will be able to continue to live in their homes and remain with their families. She is asking for S 15,000 which will allow her to serve 50 clients over the next funding year. Aid. Rainey thanked her for her presentation, there being no questions. N -- Housing & Community Devebpment Act Cowtme Meeting October 30, 2007 Pag* 21 XV. PUBLIC WORKS —ALLEY SPECIAL ASSESShIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Ms. Flax explained that this program helps low and moderate income property owners by paying the special assessment when their alley has been improved, so that it doesn't make their housing, in essence, unaffordable to them. They have a coordinated process working with Public Works and Kathy Brown in Finance to notify people when their assessments are due, offer them the application for assistance and follow through on getting them qualified. Everyone has to be income qualified and has to provide all the appropriate documentation of their household income. Currently they are receiving responses for the alleys that were paved in 2006. Every year the special assessment assistance program is for the alleys that were paved the prior year. Last year 8 alleys were paved so they have a bigger need in this fiscal year. This year they paved 4 alleys but only 2 of them have a lot of residents who are likely to qualify for alley special assessment assistance. One of them is behind Northwestern buildings so there is no-one to apply for assistance. They look at the blocks and the income in census demographics, at the percentage that are low -moderate income, try to project how many are eligible and then look at past patterns of how many will apply and that is how they arrive at their number. It is pseudo -scientific. It is not perfect because the census data is aging, and it is difficult to tell who will apply of eligible people. This year they have expanded their work to make sure that people that are eligible do apply by working with Metropolitan Family Services, North Shore Senior Services, giving information to staff at Levy Center, Fleetwood Jourdain and Crown Center. They told everyone which alleys were paved and told them to refer anyone they knew who might be eligible. They are fielding a number of calls from people who need help with the application. She believes they will have fewer cases that come to them after the fact this year because they missed the application. They are also looking for future years to see if there are ways they can supplement the special assessment assistance fund which is CDBG only with sources of other funds, like the affordable housing fund and other potential sources of funds so it doesn't all hit CDBG, especially for non CDBG target area alleys. Everyone who gets this assistance is income qualified. They are all eligible under HUD guidelines. Aid. Rainey asked whether when the petitions go out and the person who is most interested in getting the alley paved, one of the reasons many people will not sign is because they feel they are not able to pay. If they received a flier, not the application for special assessment assistance form, explaining that we have this service then the fear of signing the petition will be diminished. Mr. Jennings, of Public Works said they do that. He explained that the information, even pre -petition, when they go to the neighborhood meetings, they tell people about the program. Anyone who is there can spread the word. The petition has a cover letter with it which includes the information. The general flier that advertises the special assessment assistance program has the information, and the required public hearing has the information in it. After the alley is built, the first bill has the application with it. They do as much as they can to get the information out there from a community development and public works standpoint. He assured Aid. Rainey that if anyone is approached about having their alley paved, they will have the information, and they stress that it is all confidential. There are only 2 or 3 people in the city that know this information. It is not given out to anyone. It is a confidential process. Aid. Rainey asked if special assessment is waived because of an income eligible person and it is a 10-year thing and they sell their property the next year whether the new owner benefits from the alley having been paved. Mr. Jenning replied yes, that they do. It is not pro -rated, it is all or nothing. Aid. Rainey said it is a wonderful program. .3. HouWng 3 Conumnity Devebpment Ad Committee Meeting October 30.2007 Pap 22 XVI. HUMAN RELATIONS — SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROCR,IM Mr. Cam llerth, Human Relations Specialist and Manager of the Summer Youth Employment Program, introduced himself and thanked the Committee for the opportunity to present his proposal. He distributed a Summer Youth Program newsletter for the Committee to reflect on as he goes through his presentation. The program is a youth development initiative that focuses on providing entry-level employment and associated on-the-job training skills for Evanston youth. It is his opinion that the summer youth employment program addresses both aspects of Goal 3: clean and attractive communities and the marketable job skills. The program has existed for 15 years and was created by resolution 32-R-92, partially in response to addressing the lack of gainful youth employment and an attempt to reduce the level of youth crime that tended to increase during the idle summer months. Over its 15-year tenure, approximately 5,000 youth have attended the Mayor's annual summer youth employment job fair, which is held during the third Saturday in April. The job fair is the single largest youth employment initiative held in Evanston and it is designed for Evanston youth by the City of Evanston. As a result of the job fair, each applicant must participate in a 3-stage: process: upon registering all youth are required to attend an interviewing preparation class, they are provided guidance and instruction in proper completion of employment applications, and each youth will have an opportunity to present themselves in an interview setting with a prospective employer. As a new addition to the 2007 job fair, 2 data collection tools were introduced. A job fair evaluation form was distributed and collected from applicants in addition to an SYEP survey. As a result of these data collection measures, they can report with a high degree of certainty that during the 2007 job fair over 336 youth were registered. Of the 336 applicants, 7 1 % were African American I 1 % were European American and 6% Latino Americans. lob fair data also indicated that the largest population of youth job seekers were age 14, comprising 38% of the job seekers, with youth 18 years of age making up the smallest amount, 5%. Information gathered from the evaluation also revealed that 48% of the respondents indicated that the job specification group, or the job postings that gave information on each job, were the most informative aspect of the preparation process in their opinion. Mr. Herth's proposal is asking for funding for SYEP support staff. Members of the support staff are critical in the preparation of the SYEP, specifically the operation of the community service team, formerly called the community cleanup team, or sometimes referred to as the green team. This aspect of the SYEP was the first area of employment offered by this program. The community service team comprises 35% of the total SYEP work force, with the remaining balance consisting of other areas such as public area of city departments or the private sector. This past season the community service team collected 35 tons of trash from areas, alleys, parks and public ways. This effort was comprised of a total of 91 alleys, and reflected 18 citizen requests in addition to those assignments that were put together by the summer youth support staff. Community service team efforts based in wards reflects that 45% of the clean up efforts were focused in the 5th Ward with 27% in the 2nd Ward with the remaining; balance falling within the 91h and $th Wards. SYEP staff consists of 6 people which are: Community Service Team Supervisor, one t,, o-truck driver, one paint crew supervisor and one community service team coordinator who is responsible for the various supervisors in the field working; with the various members of the community service team. All of their members work together as a team. Each supervisor has the responsibility of supervising a group of 7-10 youth, depending on the number of youth in the program; monitoring work performance; ensuring; proper safety habits are being; exercised during the course of their job; and conducting employee success plans. Success plans are a new component of the program where the youth indicate to their supervisor what they hope to get out of the program as far as their professional expectations and goals, and what they hope to achieve personally through Housing & Community Development Act Cwvnittae Meeting Page 23 October 30.2007 the program. In addition to the employee success plan, the supervisors are also responsible for their monthly evaluations. The supervisors are involved in the JA job skills workshop that they hold on Fridays. These workshops are a new addition to the program that covers their academic enrichment or job skills development. The supervisors also play a role in the compare and contrast field trips. This season they took 2 trips: one to Oakton Community College and one to the Cook County Boot Camp. SYEP employees experienced approximately 337 hours of on-the-job training, 9 hours of focused SYEPJA success skills training, and 6-9 hours of compare and contrast training. Additional enrichment components include the community service team employee of the week, where an employee is identified during the course of the summer by their supervisor and then he/she is featured for his success. They receive a certificate and a letter that goes in their personal file. The community service team of the week, which is recognizing a specific team for the fewest mistakes on their time sheets and related paperwork. Mr. Herth concluded that he hopes that the Committee will see fit to help this program to continue to offer this service to the residents of Evanston and their youth. Aid. Rainey thanked him and commented that the program seems to get more and more mature and that it is very impressive. Aid. Bernstein asked Mr. Herth what "accommodations" at $2,500 in the budget are. Mr. Herth replied that they refer to the Employment for Disabled Youth Program. They are for employers that are receptive to hiring youth with disabilities if they are not equipped with the appropriate accommodations. They offer as an incentive S500.00 to meet whatever those accommodations are. As he understands, generally that figure tends to cover the portion. XV11. HUMAN RELATIONS — ACCESS — EMPLOY4fENT FOR DISABLED YOUTH Mr. Herth explained that this program is a collaboration between the Human Relations Division, specifically the Summer Youth Employment Program and the Health and Human Services Dept. One of the things that he noticed about the SYEP was that they did not have a strong representation of youth with disabilities so he addressed that by reaching out to John Ostrowsky, Special Ed' Coordinator at ETHS. By visibility and talking with the disabled youth, Mr. Ostrowsky and Mr. Herth encouraged them to be more involved in the program. He and Mr. Ostrowsky created a stronger presence among the disabled youth and addressed their concerns. They accommodate those who are not able to attend the job fair by allowing them to come the following day. It is very hectic and challenging for a person with disabilities to navigate and get where they need to be on the main day. They wanted this program to work with those youth directly. During the course of the year they earmark positions where they can place youth with disabilities, marketing the positions with various employers, communicating with them in advance that they will be working with a youth with some form of a disability. This process is not just geared toward the employee's needs, but with sensitivity to the youth's needs and interests also, so they can make a good match. They found that they had a great partnership with Mr. Barnes because of his expertise in that area. They also got a favorable response in working with the ticket -to -work program. This program creates an ongoing job opportunity for individuals with disabilities beyond the age of 18. It requires an academic job training component that leads up to that phase of it. That is what SYEP provides, because it allows them to address their need for SYEP to bring on more youth with disabilities, but also providing the job training component that will support the ticket -to - work program that Mr. Barnes is working with. Mr. Hersh asked Mr. Barnes to elaborate on the ticket -to -work program. Once an individual signs up for the ticket -to -work program, the city will get reimbursed for some money they spend on training within the SYEP program. Aid. Rainey asked, of the 25 disabled students that we are hoping to include in this program, i Housing 3 Comrmnity Development Act Corminee Meeting Papa 24 October 30.2007 is their pay the seasonal employee line of the budget. fir. Herth replied that yes, their pay would come out of the seasonal employment line. It reflects 25 individuals that would be the core group. They would identify 6 who would work seasonally. Mr. Barnes stated that an accommodation is something that a disabled person might need like a higher counter or a specialized workstation for their computer. Research has shown that the average accommodation usually costs no more than S500.00. They would like to, as an incentive to get employers to participate with these students, offer stipends to offset the cost of making their workstation accessible, whether it means to enlarge their doorways to make them wide enough for someone in a wheelchair with a disability to get inside, or to purchase a workstation that can be adaptable. He added that the ticket -to -work program that they are in discussions about is through the social security administration. They would be an employment network provider, which means recipients of disability would come to them if they were selected as a provider and they would give there the support needed to obtain permanent supportive employment so they would eventually no longer have to depend on disability benefits. AId. Bernstein asked whether the support staff salaries listed in these two programs are customary to what they city pays supervisory personnel, S51,000. Mr. Herth replied that yes, that would be for the support staff. Aid. Bernstein asked if all the other items listed under number 15 are for IS and 16 like the postage, advertising and supplies. Mr. Herth said they were identified separately. It is conceivable, since they are operating out of the same location that they could be addressed together, but it was designed to be separate, as listed. Aid. Bernstein said the ACCESS program has budget line items that are reflective of office expenses but the SYEP program only lists support staff salaries, so should some of those be put on the SYEP list. Aid. Rainey explained that those types of expenditures come out of the general fund for the SYEP. The only thing the CDBG funding would pay for for the SYEP program is support salaries. Aid. Bernstein asked Mr. Herth to explain what sort of printing he would be doing for SI,800 and how they are accessing the youth. If they are working with someone at ETHS, how would it cost that much? Mr. Herth said that in addition to working with ETHS, there is the creation of brochures, marketing the program, to reach out to private businesses. Aid. Bernstein asked whether they were marketing for the ACCESS program on the line item for S 1,800, to which Mr. Herth replied yes. He asked whether they were sending printed material to different employers than the SYEP program. Mr. Herth said this program is trying to attract employers who will hire youth with disabilities. The SYEP program, such as the newsletter that you have in front of you, can certainly incorporate that information, but generally is operating for the remainder of the program, like the community service team members or additional positions within the Evanston business community. Aid. Bernstein said the underlying issue is if they are spending general revenue fiends for office supplies, can't they coordinate the 2 and use some of these monies to employ other kids, because they always have to turn people away, and can never hire enough. Ile is looking at a full budget that is enough money to fund 25 kids. Aid. Bernstein said this is a beautiful fancy brochure, can't this money be used to pay more kids instead. I Ie suggested eliminating some of the printing and training and travel costs and use it to pay more kids. Aid. Rainey asked that Mr. Ilerth provide more information to Ms. Flax. She asked whether the newsletter went to employers. She had never seen the newsletter. Mr. Herth said there is another one in production but it hasn't been published due to budget constraints. Mr. I lerth did not have the cost of doing the newsletter handy but he acknowledged that it was expensive. Ms. Burnus asked whether they were getting advertising dollars for listing businesses' names on the newsletter. Mr. Herth said they were just using the names listed to show the other businesses how they could advertise and that this issue is a pilot. The agencies listed were part of the program but the purpose was to encourage other businesses to advertise in the newsletter. Aid. Bernstein asked HouWN & Conumnity DeveWwwn= Aft Committee Meebng Pay* 23 October 30.2007 how many employers are part of the program who were not shown in the newsletter. Mr. Herth replied that there were additional private businesses. It was an arbitrary choice to list those. Ald. Bernstein said he could understand him listing the McGaw YMCA and the Salvation Army, however Evanston Car Wash is a for -profit company, and if he was working with a corporation and saw the ad, he would wonder how much they had paid for their ad and he would be upset. He would like to know how much it costs. fie would rather get money into the kids' pockets. He was down on this program a long time ago but when he found out that many families are dependent on the money their children make during the summer, he accepted it. He saw youth standing around and didn't agree with the program's work ethic. He wants more kids to be able to be impacted by this. He expressed his lack of approval for the advertising in the newsletter of only a few of the participating businesses. Ald. Rainey suggested her. Hersh put a list of the participating businesses on the newsletter next time with a thank you note for their participation. Ald. Rainey asked for more detail for the budget for the program and thanked him, saying it was a great idea for a new program. XVIII. PURCHASING — AllIV/EBE PROGR. V d LOCAL EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM Ms. Jewel Jackson, Purchasing and Contracts Manager, introduced herself and Mr. Lloyd Sheppard, Business Development Coordinator for the Minority Women and Evanston Business Enterprise Program, introduced himself. Ms. Jackson explained that the primary objectives of this program are to identify and promote opportunities for M/W/EBE's within the city's procurement system and to identify those firms that are ready, willing and able to provide commodities, professional services and construction trade services. This year they would like to add addressing multiple methods to increase job training and job placement opportunities for low to moderate income LMI Evanston residents on projects using city funds. The M/W/EBE program has been charged with 15 responsibilities as stated in their application. They have provided a matrix giOng the status on all 15 responsibilities. There are some that cannot be addressed by one staff person, but require additional funding to increase staff or obtain consulting assistance. The beneficiaries of the M/W/EBE program are minority women and Evanston business enterprises that are provided an opportunity to perform no less than 25% of the awarded contract equaling or greater than S20,000. They also require that one out of every three bidders for purchases under S20,000 are targeted companies. her. Sheppard has drafted an ordinance which has been reviewed by the Legal Dept. They are currently working with the City Manager's office and the MUWIEBE Committee in preparing a revised LEP ordinance that will soon be presented to the City Council. The M/WIEBE program will apply for funds to the State of Illinois Workforce Development Board with the intent to provide training in the following areas: occupational training skills, on the job training, customized training in which the employer commits to trainees, skill upgrading and training, job readiness, and adult education and literacy services provided in conjunction with other training. They have identified Dawson Technical Institute's Pre -apprenticeship Program as a resource. The apprenticeship program's average cost is S2,100 for two semesters. They are asking CDBG to fund 10 scholarships to student.,, for $2,100 plus S6,800.00 for transportation costs. Ms. Jackson said Dawson Technical Institute's Pre -apprenticeship training program is an additional resource from which Evanston residents could benefit. The program offers prc- apprenticeship training in brick laying, combination welding, concrete masonry construction, carpentry, plumbing and fire protection. The NLAV/EBE Coordinator is also asking the Committee to fund the creation of a Job Training Coordinator, whose duties will be to assist with program development and improvement, to track the employment of Evanston residents via the contractor's certified payrolls, track and assist LMI residents attending Dawson mg & My D&veonunt Act CO -TA O MeeWV Page 26 OdObW 30, 2007 Technical Institute, refer Evanston residents to a one -stop apprenticeship program and track their progress, identify and interview LMI residents for training, guide their placement, monitor their progress in the various training programs, work with prospective; employers and assist the MAWEBE Coordinator with his 15 responsibilities. The program will continue to reach businesses and clients via the following methods: minority and female small business development organizations, the Evanston Chamber of Commerce, minority and female construction contractors and development organizations, supplier diversity conferences, demand stars websitc, and continuing to advertise in the Chicago'rribune and the Evanston Review. The program clients for the local employment program would be reached via the City's MAVIEBE program, trade unions, contractors, ETHS, Qakton Community College and the Evanston Township's general assistance office, as well as one -stop. They have been given l5 responsibilities. Much has been accomplished by one staff person. They would like to take M/W/EBE to the next level which will require the addition of a staff member. She expressed that they would appreciate the Committee's support in malting that happen. Aid. Rainey clarified that their request is for S217,393.00 for the current program plus the addition of the training program. She said that while she is sure the city of Chicago has these kind of training programs, she questions the role of a small city like ours taking on the responsibility of a training program. She referred to the sewer project. She always felt that that was a creative model training program for that specific area of work. Ms. Jackson confirmed that they would target projects that use city funds. Aid. Rainey suggested that they include a program that would require any contractor that got a city project to conduct a training program. ,Ifwe build, for instance, a fire station, someone from IIVAC has to take on one training person, someone from concrete has to take on another, etc." Mr. Matt Grady, Finance Director of the City of Evanston, introduced himself, saying that Aid. Rainey's was an excellent question. He said there would be additional costs that the vendor would charge them in order to run a training program within it. What they try to do is maintain their costs, or keep their costs low in terms of the bids they receive and they felt that through a training program to help reduce our approximately 3.5% unemployment rate, this would be the best approach. Aid. Rainey said that just having an M/W/EBE Program adds to our costs, so they're going to come from some place and it seems that the training on the job would be better by the contractor who specializes in that area than at some technical institute. Ald. Hansen said there are many sources of funding provided by the federal government and - the Committee tries not to reinvent the wheel and repeat mechanisms that already are in place. Mr. Sheppard replied that they understand that and they are looking for available funding through the Randall locator and the U.S. Department of Labor. Ms. Burrus commented that when you go to school, you can apply for financial aid from the federal government through student loans and grants. She said there is a financial aid office at any school at which you apply. That office will have programs in place for students at that school. Why are we trying to find funding for scholarships when the federal government already has a program set up through individual schools to give funding to Lhtl students`? fir. Sheppard said they are also looking at a targeted number of Evanston residents to try to put through this program each year. He said they don't know that everyone that goes to apply fora federal grant is going to receive it and maybe they should be coupling what they do with what the federal government can provide to reach a target each year because otherwise they don't know whether they can reach a target each year. Ms. Burrus said there are federal student programs that if you're LMI, if that is what you are targeting, there are guaranteed federal grants for LMI students to go to school. That should be something that we arc tapping into instead of trying to pay for something that is already budgeted in the federal budget. Mr. Sheppard said they will take a HouskV d Community Development Act Committee Meetirg Pap 27 odoW 3tl, 2007 look at that. Aid. Rainey also asked them to provide her with a pamphlet from the Dawson Institute because she has never heard of it. She asked if Kennedy King College is a city coillege and whether Evanston students are subject to a higher fee since we don't pay taxes in Chicago, because we do pay taxes to Oatkon and she asked if there were any programs at Oakton. She added that this is a technical institute and that many of the prospective students may not be interested in construction, bricklaying, etc. They may want to go into something more computer or sales related and Oakton does have those types of programs. Mr. Sheppard replied that when he visited Dawson it was not indicated to him that Evanston students would have to pay more. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he used to be an administrator at a city college, and yes, there is a higher fee per credit hours for suburban residents. He said that it is worthwhile to look at Oakton's programs and to encourage people to apply for federal grants also, but he understands their objective to get this program started and get some apprentices in the pipeline. The program addresses the general objectives that the Committee has been talking about, but that their methodology is something to look at. Aid. Rainey stated that Aid. Hansen had to leave. She thanked them for their presentation. XIX. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT —NEIGHBORHOOD SECURITY Ms. Flax explained that it is an ongoing program that is 50150 cost sharing with property owners, currently multi -family dwellings only, to do lighting, fencing and other needs that will make their property more safe and secure. It involves a police inspection. It has some of the elements of the environmental design program but it is not comprehensive, like the SNAP program, and that there is a real need for it. It could also help fund identified areas in SNAP if we look at expanding how we can serve people by adding single family dwellings, which the Neighborhood Security Program is recommending. This would give the program the flexibility to address a neighborhood need where they might have multi family and single family together and to come up with joint or comprehensive solutions that have to do with these individual fixes to dwellings because it is in the housing category. This is where it gets complicated. They are fitting their needs and programs into HUD categories. They arc• recommending, in addition to adding single family dwellings that they raise the eligible amounts for the match, based on the fact that of the people that apply, roughly only 25% of them become projects that are completed. People are not getting enough help or feel that the project becomes too expensive. They recommend that 1-2 unit dwellings be eligible for up to 51,000, 3-8 units up to S1,500, and 9 plus up to S2,000. Then they will monitor expenditures and adjust as needed. This is based on an educated guess based on what they are seeing in the market place. They are also seeing interest from single family property owners who they have to turn away. Aid. Rainey said she gets a lot of interest in this program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether Ms. Flax said that through the inclusion of single family home owners may they be able to generate the kind of revenue needed to help with the SNAP program. its. Flax replied that it would offer a way of helping to address the identified needs there, not in funding, but in implementation of it. Aid. Bernstein asked whether the staff person would be in the Planning Dept. He asked, is it S10,000 in staff time to give away S20,000? his. Flax said they looked at the time devoted. They will have to institute a tracking system so it has to be what they actually spend. The rule of thumb she learned in budgeting not to allocate less than 10% of an FTE so that is how they formed that estimate. It does not include hiring any new people. Aid. Bernstein said that he sees 113 of the budget to tun it, he would rather give away S28,000 and he wants to know what kind of time it would take to run this program. Ms. Flax said that they are spending the time right now and they're going to have to allocate the time to these projects Housing a Community Development Act Committee Meeting Page 23 October 30, 2007 per HUD's requirement that they get that time associated. They are going to be putting a time and activity tracking system in place. Ms. Flax further explained that the value of the dollars managed in the program is double the actual budget that the city puts in because they are helping with a match from the residents. Aid. Bernstein said he understands but is not sure he agrees. We are still giving away S20,000 at the cost of S 10,000. Aid. Rainey asked if at the end of the year she will be able to tell them whether it was actually 10% or really 7%. Ms. Flax said yes, she will because of the tracking system they are instituting. Aid. Rainey said this program includes staff time from the police dept. because in order to get this program you have to have a security survey done and that takes a lot of time. Ms. Flax said that they have not included the police time in the estimate. We are not asking for reimbursement from HUD for that part. XX. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT—ADOPTA FANCY CAN Ms. Flax explained that they believe that this program has a lot of value because it lets individual citizens get involved in improving their neighborhoods. They have consistently gotten about 6-8 new cans out per year. Nov and then some come back in and they are recycled. Some have burnt up liners but those things are taken care of and they have about 70 cans out in service currently. Aid. Rainey added that Streets and Sanitation doesn't have to empty them. But, Ms. Flax said, they are great partners in Setting them out to the citizens. Ald. Rainey asked her about the only complaint, that the bags that they distribute need to be of better quality. You cannot have a generic plastic bag. Ms. Flax said that the bags they just purchased are from the same supplier and are supposed to be sturdier. She will ask people how the new bags are working. They did do a joint purchase with one of the TIF districts so they got the cost per can down. Aid. Rainey asked how much we got the cans for. Ms. Flax said we got S50.00 per can knocked off the price (she wasn't sure what the price was.) Aid. Rainey said we could use the savings for the bags, and Ms. Flax said they did. XXI. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT —NEIGHBORHOOD FACADE IMPROVEMENT Ms. Flax explained that the program is an ongoing program that has a lot of value because it enables them to help small businesses in the target area make improvements to their store fronts that will help them both from a driving retail traffic standpoint and will also help improve the neighborhood as a whole, at 50150 cost sharing. They are maintaining recommending the same levels ofS10,000 per storefront unless they arc very big: then they that get a maximum of S40,000 per property. They rarely go to that amount because properties are usually not that large. If a property is on a corner, they are eligible for 2 storefronts because it is 2 facings. They have completed one project so far this year. Thcy have another in the second ward that they are working on. She hopes to bring that specific project to the Committee at the next non -hearing meeting for approval. It will probably not be able to be done until Spring because it is tuckpointing and we are running into the bad tuckpointing period. They are in discussions with additional storefront owners in the 51h Ward, a couple that they have been in discussion with for a while. She just provided Cathy Katona of ECDC information on the program. They are going to be actively trying to market through multiple channels to make sure people are aware of it. This is also one in which they need to assign staff time, so part of this funding request will cover staff time. These can get time consuming depending on the property owner and their knowledge. For example, the one they just completed took very little staff time because it was a very experienced developer working on a development the city helped fund. Right now the person they arc working with needs more assistance with bidding and funding, so it can vary. XXII. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT— CDBG ADMINISTRATION HouskV & Community Oevefopment Act ComRurtee Moa ft Pape 29 October 30, 2007 Ms. Flax explained that this program funds many things and a number of different people, all in the Planning Dept. It covers the overall management of the CDBG program with both city projects, subrccipients, the whole process of the RFP, ongoing monitoring of expenditures, all the preparation and submission of HUD required documents including the annual action plan, the CAPER, and all of the IDIS data entry, the federal government's database which is getting more onerous in terms of its requirements, all the time. In addition, the Neighborhood Planning work is funded in this budget. It is primarily staff time. Aid. Rainey asked her to break down who the people arc in the positions funded. Ms. Flax replied that the Assistant Director of the Planning Division is Dennis Marino, the Neighborhood Planner is Sue Guderley, part of Donna Spicuzza's time is funded because she is the backup for all of the CDBG stuff and she and Ms. Flax do the HUD data entry and also write the CAPER and the Action Plan. In addition, the financial person, Teresa, who makes sure the CDBG and HUD draw downs match the general ledger, which is very important to HUD and to us, is funded by this grant. She is a contract employee. Ald. Rainey read from page 4: "CDBG Administration ensures that the City's CDBG program effectively and efficiently accomplishes the goals of the consolidated plan, etc.," adding that she believes one of the reasons why we are working very positively towards that is because of Ms. Flax. She said she has been fabulous and that the documents that they got this year were sorted and presented so wonderfully and made it so easy to get through, and how much the Committee appreciates it. Ms. Flax thanked the Committee, saying there is always room for improvement. Aid. Rainey said she would find that hard to do and that she has done a great job. Ms. Flax announced for the audience that the CDBG Funding Allocation night will be on Tuesday, November 13, at 7:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers and will be televised. The Committee will decide allocations. XXIII. CITIZEN C04MMENT Ms. Mary Friedl asked about the ADA curb program. She said she has issues with the ends of cul de sacs that go onto streets next to shopping areas. Those sidewalks arc supposedly for pedestrian traffic and they don't have curb cuts to them. Ms. Burrus asked for an example of where. She said alongside Home Depot and other areas. Ald. Rainey said she believes this is true at Howard and Hartrey too, where the Jewel and Target are. Ms. Friedl said she assumes they were put in after the cul de sac was closed because it is right in the middle, and yet there are no curb ramps being put in there and thinks that especially at Home Depot it is important. "You have to be able to cross the street to get there and there is only one place where you can cross the street. It is not real convenient to do that." She would like to see those done. She also said that along Lee Street, west of Dodge there is an area that is part commercial, part residential and to get from one residential area like Brown and Lee to the other residential area, you have to go kitty corner from one area, across an intersection. It ends in a cul de sac. It is not very busy. There is one commercial building there. All these streets end in cul de sacs and you can't get from one residential area to another. Ms. Fried] said she wanted to give a little history regarding Family Focus and that she hopes this is over soon. In 1977 — 1979, she was a young parent and she lived in the 5`h ward and she used Family Focus, it was housing Kingley Elementary School. That was her first experience. Then they moved and things changed and in 1994 was the next time she had an experience with Family Focus. She was doing a survey of polling places in Evanston for the League of Women Voters as part of a graduate studies program she was involved in and she paired an able bodied and disabled person together and they looked at these polling places and they made a report. It was grant -funded. That was the next time Family Focus came into her life Housing a Cornmunity Development Act Committee Meeting Pago so October 30, 2007 because she interviewed people at the 2040 Brown building and they were afraid to get on that lift in 1994. They were afraid to get on the lift because it wobbles. You have to somehow find the maintenance person to get the lift to work. tie has to be able to find the keys and at that time they weren't even investigating it. So it is no longer a polling place. In 2000, she was denied entrance to the Fleetwood Jourdain Theater which was housed at Family Focus. She wanted to go to a play with her husband. She filed a Human Rights Commission complaint, which she withdrew as soon as the City moved the theater and she got grief from the Human Rights Commission because they wanted to continue it but she didn't want to burden them with additional expenses, so she withdrew it anyway. In the years to follow she discovered that Family Focus handled many federal, state and local government services and none of some of those services were not available to people who were disabled, or especially using wheelchairs. Every year since 2000, she has given testimony at these meetings and brought things from HUD that showed the Committee that she felt it should be covered. Jean Feldman told her many years ago that she would have to file a complaint in order to move the process any further. She wants to again express her disappointment that she had to do this. It is not her intention to cause anyone any trouble. She wanted to tell them that again because she knows that it has created a lot of upheaval. Aid. Rainey told her, on behalf of Ms. Flax, she knows, because Ms. Flax tells her about the many meetings and time she spends dealing, with this issue and nobody is considering it an irritation of any kind. She is doing her job and working very hard on this. She thinks if this effort had been made earlier, we might have been further along. She asked Ms. Friedl not to feel that way. She is doing the right thing and Ms. Flax is doing her jab. Ms. Friedl said she just wanted to share it with the Committee. She said that at a meeting Family Focus representatives said the lift was 15 years old and she knows for a fact that it is closer to 25 years old. They had one similar to it at Kendall College and it was at least 25 years old. She doesn't understand how that can continue, when people were afraid, in 1994 to get on that thing. Aid. Rainey assured her that Ms. Flax is working on it and that she must communicate that with Ms. Friedl and thanked her for sharing the history with the Committee. Ms. Friedl said she just wanted to make it clear that she doesn't go from one end of Evanston to the other, complaining. Aid. Rainey said she believes that Ms. Friedl goes from one end of Evanston to the other doing good, and that the rest of the Committee believes so too. Ms. Friedl is still on the Committee on aging. This is her final year. The following addendum has been added to the minutes at the request of Ms. Friedl: CDBG funding for Family Focus Testimony given by Mary Fried[ on October 30, 2007 In 1977-9 I, myself, attended Family Focus after my first son was born. It was then housed at Kingsley Elementary School. I was living in 5th Ward and needed the kind of inter -action available at Family Focus. Thankfully this was a time before I acquired a handicap. I was able to avail myself of all activities Family Focus had to offer. Then I moved outside Sth Ward and into 9th Ward, my sons grew up and my life continued to evolve. In 1994 I was to cross paths with Family Focus once again. l did a study of the access features of Evanston's polling places for the Evanston League of Women Voters as part of my graduate studies. I interviewed people at Hill Arboretum at 2040 Brown and discovered that • Housing 3 Cornnunity Deveiopment Aa comninee Meetmg October 30.2007 Pape 31 many of them felt uncomfortable about using the wobbly lift at that building, a necessary process to get to the voting booths. They didn't like the process of attracting attention and looking for the caretaker in order to run the lift so that they could vote. I am glad to report that Family Focus is no longer a polling place. In the year 20001 was unable to see a play at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theater, a part of the Evanston Recreation Department, which was then being presented in the theater at Family Focus. I filed a civil rights complaint with the Cook County Human Rights Commission. As part of this complaint process 1 gave city staff and a copy of portion of ADA which stated that city governments cannot rent buildings that are not accessible to provide services to the public. Shortly after that the city of Evanston decided to move the Fleetwood Jourdain Theater from Family Focus. I withdrew my complaint. The Cook County Human Rights Commission advised me against withdrawal of my complaint. But at the time I did not want to apply financial restraints to Family Focus since my immediate desire to see plays had been resolved when the plays were moved to the Piven'Meater. In the years that followed I became aware that many, many federal, state and local government funds were supporting both Family Focus and its programs and Family Focus's tenant's programs. Family Focus provides a major portion of the educational, social and recreational services to the west side although All of these services remained inaccessible to me and many others who use wheelchairs. Every year at these CDBG meetings I have given testimony to the inaccessibility of Family Focus. I have told you that future funding should depend on Family Focus making their facility accessible. The last few times I have supplied this committee with documentation from HUD in support of my position. Every year you have politely listened to me and then proceeded while ignoring everything I had said. My former Alderman, Gene Feldman, was right when he told me years ago that I would just have to file a complaint ill order to get Evanston's and Family Focus's attention. Why has Family Focus placed a lift and seating for people with disabilities in their theater First when they have not provided a safe lift to deliver people with disabilities to all floors in the building, including the floor that would make their new improvements accessible? Family Focus has rejected purchasing and installing a new lift saying the State of Illinois won't like it or the Department of Justice won't like it or it will violate the Architectural Barriers Act. Has Family Focus been able to name any names of folks involved with any agency who told them that a lift would be unacceptable? Do they have anything in writing from some agency to support this idea? I have always wondered if Family Focus did not realize that once they accept public money they must comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and both Title Ill (Public Accommodations) and the Title 11(State and Local Government Services) of the ADA. I wonder at their misunderstanding of the purpose of these acts and codes and laws. Their goal is not to give Family Focus an excuse for making their services and building accessible. Great efforts have been made to keep from creating just such a situation. In the years following the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) a collaborative committee was formed at the Springfield offices of the Illinois Attorney General's Office, if memory serves me right. Their job was to look at ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (1973), the Illinois Accessibility Code and applicable laws and insure Houslnp a Community Development Act Committee Meehan Pays 32 October 30.2007 state laws conform with the federal laws, In 1997 the State of Illinois issued a new updated Illinois Accessibility Code. Despite what was said here last week by officials from Family Focus there is no such thing as "grand fathering" Family Focus's responsibility to make all services available and accessible to those with disabilities. As an alternate to a lift Family Focus says there is no way they will be able to place a new elevator in your building in the foreseeable future. It is just too expensive. So what Family Focus was saying is that they have no plan in the near future to make Family Focus accessible to me or anyone else who use a wheelchair. I hope that Family Focus had an informative meeting with HUD yesterday and that they better understand their responsibility to make all of their services and those of their tenants accessible in a timely manner to people with mobility impairments. I hope they are able to reach an agreement in the near future on a voluntary compliance agreement with HUD that they feel they can sign. I know that Alderman Holmes has told me she would love to get the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theater back to Family Focus or at least into the 5th Ward. In fact she stated it was one of her priorities. I would like to see it return also, right after the new lift is installed. XXIV. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:33 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPhIENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, November 13, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. — Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein. Sarah Breen, Coleen Burtus, Aid. Hansen, Aid. lean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Bobbie Newman 1. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum present, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:14 p.m. Aid. Rainey explained that this is the night all of the proposals are considered and the Committee begins the process of recommending to the City Council the allocations for the 2008-09 Community Development Block Grant Fund. She reminded the Committee and public that that the total funds available are S2,125,786. The amount in applications totals $3,503,170, which means proposals exceed the allotment by 51,377,384. While everyone's proposal was wonderful, there is no way every proposal is going to get funded, or completely funded. At Aid. Bernstein's suggestion, Aid. Rainey also stated that of the estimated amount available, including all of the re -allocated money and money we expect to get (we have been notified that we are getting approximately 2% less than last year), the caps are: for administrative proposals for staff 20% of total entitlement and for public service 15%. There are no caps on the rest. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 18, OCTOBER 16, OCTOBER 23 AND OCTOBER 30, 2007 MEETINGS The meeting minutes for the September 18, 2007, October 16, 2007 and October 23, 2007 meetings were approved unanimously by the Committee. III. 2008/09 CDBG PROGRAM — Committee Funding Recommendations ADMINISTRATION CATEGORY 20% Cap Aid. Rainey announced that there will not be public comment at this meeting unless the Committee has a question, inquiry or clarification on a proposal. Aid. Jean -Baptiste disclosed to the Committee that he is the registered agent for ECDC, but only administratively. Various organizations on the west side of to%km that have sought to get incorporated for free, have come to him and he has done that to get the ball rolling for them. He has incorporated the Church Street Merchant Association and the Dempster Dodge Merchant Organization and has served as their registered agent. He is not on the Board of ECDC and makes no decisions for them. It was only a donation of time. Aid. Rainey disclosed that she is the person who wrote the Fancy Can proposal but she does not administer them or empty them, and it has been Housing & Community Dc%vtopmcnt Act Committce,lecting Minulcs Page 2 Novembcr 13. 2007 many years since its inception. However, site will advocate for the program. She stated that she does not think there is a conflict of interest for Ald. Jean -Baptiste relating to ECDC. The Committee agreed. Aid. Rainey opened the meeting to discussion by the Committee. Aid. Jean-1aptiste opened the discussion with the first category, Administration. He moved to allocate $312,000 for CDBG Administration, S62,276 for M/W/EBE and $22,000 for Housing Advocacy. Ms. Burrus suggested raising the amount allocated to CDBG Administration to S355,000 considering how many people are being paid out of it, lowering the M/W/EBE amount to S20,000 and alloting S21,276 to Housing Advocacy. Aid. Jean - Baptiste argued that this would eviscerate the M/W/EBE program. This program needs to be strengthened to achieve some equity in the City of Evanston for women and minority businesses. Aid. Rainey said that if this community really wants to sustain minority hiring and fair treatment, the taxpayers need to get involved. There arc other sources than CDBG for that program. Her recommendations were $329,225 for CDBG Administration, $42,000 for M/W/EBE and S25,051 for Housing Advocacy, which does allocate an additional S20,000 to,X1VW/EBE. Ms. Burnes accepted Aid. Rainey's amendment. Aid. Rainey said when they do the budget, they will have to make up the difference, but there are limited funds. Aid. Jean -Baptiste agreed that funds are limited, adding that they have been talking about allocating TIF dollars to M/W/EBE but have not done it yet adding that allocating funds for a secretary was not acted upon. Any move to reduce the allocation from the previous year will do away with the program. Ms. Flax explained how the CDBG Administrative funds are distributed: salaries for overall administration of the grant, the neighborhood planner including west Evanston planning, the data entry and reporting to HUD and parts of 6 different people's salaries. Aid. Jean -Baptiste pointed out that last year a great deal was spent on consultants, which can be re -allocated next year because we will not need to do as much consulting, even though more planning may be done in south Evanston. Aid. Rainey agreed that this is a perfect example of a TIF expenditure. The Howard Street planning is going to come out of the TIF fund. Aid. Jean - Baptiste agreed to $319,000 and suggested adding S 10,000 to the M/W/EBE program. Aid. Bernstein said that in this category the Housing Advocacy, Human Relations Dept. is asking for S 103,000 and none of the other suggested allocations are sufficient to operate that department, so perhaps we should move it all. As important as that department is, they haven't offered any test cases for 15 years and this subsidizes some of the landlord tenant inquiries which are better moved to the law department so that inquirers bet appropriate information with respect to the landlord tenant ordinance. He suggested allocating $332,276 to CDBG Administration and M/WIEBE S64,000 and the City will have to come up with the funding for I lousing Advocacy. Aid. Rainey said she could not support that. She does not want to be in the position of restructuring City Hill. She does not feel they are in the position to eliminate that department from the budget. Aid. Hemstein argued that last year they funded it S70,000 and she is suggesting S20.000, a reduction of 550,000. Aid. Rainey argued that last year they had it Director that they no longer have. Aid. Bernstein said the City Manager has restructured that office and he hope, that it will become a better advocate for its purpose, but giving them it token amount is not what they should do. Ald. Rainey said she does not think it's a token amount, It is an aniount that the hudgcl allots. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked ifshe would agree with S20,000 (or I lousing Advocacy, She said yes but site is not willing to drop CDlIG Administration to 5319.000, Aid. Jean-liuptiste suggested Binding $329,295 to CINICI Administration, S52,000 liar N1/W/IiNl, and leave S15,051 for Housing Advocacy. Housing & Community Dcvclopu=t Act Committee Meeting Minutes Page 3 November 13, 2007 The Committee voted unanimously to accept this. Aid. Rainey said she does not look at the Human Relations Dept_ as being a CDBG program. She sees it as a City department, so she does not feel that the Committee has the right to announce its demise. She feels there should be a council -wide discussion. AId. Bernstein said that he agrees that it should not be a CDBG program and that is why he feels that the Housing Advocacy program should be funded by the City. Not only the needs of the low and moderate income population, but racial equality and many other things are addressed by the Human Relations Commission when it is run effectively so maybe it should not be funded by the CDBG funds at all. Aid. Rainey said either is M/W/EBE. AId. Bernstein said hopefully it creates work for the minorities and women and that is what these funds are to be used for. Allocations approved unanimously by the Committee: CDBG Administration: S325,225 M/W/EBE S 52,000 Housing Advocacy Program S 15,051 Aid. Hansen reiterated Aid. Rainey's sentiments about not funding the Housing Advocacy Program because it would have ramifications on the City's overall budget that this Committee should not bare the burden of. PUBLIC SERVICES CATEGORY 15% Cap Ms. Burrus recommended the following allocations for the Public Services category: Meals At Home S 10,000, Music Institute of Chicago S1,500, North Shore Senior Center $25,000, City Health and Human Services S5,000, Human Relations Division $3,599, Evanston Community Defender S50,000, Legal Assistance S 10,000, Divine Wisdom Institute for Learning $0, Summer Video Camp SO, Fit to be Me $5,000, Open Studio Project $0, YAM Annual College Retreat S10,000, Summer Youth Employment Program S45,000, YWCA Domestic Violence Services S35,000, Interfaith Action of Evanston SO, Youth Job Center of Evanston $45,000, Budget Office Local Employment Program SO, Evanston Police Dept. Senior Crime Prevention S 15,000, Evanston Police Dept. Safer Neighborhood Area Project S 1,500, Carepoint SO, Connections for the Homeless $4,500, H.E. Lane Center $0, Interfaith Housing Homesharing Program S12,000, South Evanston Neighborhood Association S1,500, Adopt a Fancy Can S2.500, Graffiti Removal S30,000 and Evanston Community Fair $0. Her allocations sum was S500 short of the total funds available. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said the DWILI is a brand new idea that was presented by a group that is solely operated by volunteers to youth with the objective of trying to redirect the thinking of some of the youth who have gone astray and to get them to see the consequences of their actions. He was impressed with his presentation and the commitment to this work. The program has been operating for at least a year. I -le suggested they contribute not S40,000 as was requested, but S2,500 because they must need money for supplies. He agrees with S0 allotment for the Summer Video Camp. He would allot the Job Counseling for the Homeless $I,000, and the Local Employment & Job Training Program to help adults find a vocation $22,000 because the principal aspect of the program is to hire a person to focus on developing this area of work -- to get in touch with unions, training centers, or perhaps Oakton Community College. He said Carepoint offers a number of services that our Health Dept. discontinued such as HIV testing and outreach programs to bring health care services so he would allot them S10,000. fie agreed with funding the Community Fair SO. The H.E. Lane Flouring & Community Development Act Committee Meeting .Slinutes Page 4 November 13, 2007 Center has been, with very limited funds, for a very long time, assisting ex -offenders and others who are doN%m and out who are trying to make a transition, giving them an address and a phone number and a place to change clothes. This initiative is supported by the church that houses it, and many people contribute to the program. He would allocate S5,000 to H.E. Lane, which is 50° o of what they requested. He would reduce Meals at Home to S8,250 Music to Seniors to S1,000, and North Shore Senior Center to S20,000. He suggested funding Access to Employment for Disabled Youth at S2,500, Evanston Community Defender at S40,000 and Evanston Legal Service at S7,500. Ms. Burrus responded that it comes down to a philosophy: he is suggesting peppering a little bit of money to appease people versus really giving money to programs that are making a substantial impact. The Committee must decide on giving to the programs that are doing really good work in the community, are showing evaluation, making a commitment, and have data, and have been here a long time, versus just giving someone S1,000 that is not going to snake a difference in the long run. She said she understands why he is doing what he is doing but she feels that the Committee needs to commit to doing what is best in the long range for not-for-proFts in Evanston and for the City and citizens of Evanston. Aid. Jean -Baptiste responded that the issue is not efficiency in measuring the cost of providing these kinds of human services. Many of those agencies he wants to fund that provide care to the homeless have marginal funding. Most of the people who work there are volunteers who start the programs on their own and are trying to get CDBG assistance to become stable. He does not see a contribution to the H.E. Lane program as symbolic because it is only S5,000. S5,000 is significant to an initiative that is started in the community by a group that says let me provide an additional support system for some young people to better be able to reassess and be self critical about their outlook on life and the direction they're going in. If you are looking for the best -looking program, with all their is dotted and is crossed, they are not. Aid. Rainey said they are looking for successes. Aid. Jean -Baptiste argued that CDBG is for folks in the targeted area and when they look at how the money is allocated, many of these programs have supported peoples' careers over along period of time. He is suggesting they support programs such as H.E. Lane, and DWILI, where there are no careers being pursued. He agrees that they are looking for efficiency but at the same time they are not looking to throw away initiatives where people are being productive and making a contribution to a needy sector of our community. Ms. Burrus argued that they are not proving that they are being productive. There are no outcome measures. What is the progress? We are giving them money over and over but we don't not see data. Aid. Bernstein, in agreement with Aid. Jean - Baptiste, said they are not trying to appease anyone, but they are trying to do the best they can with limited funds. With respect to some of the grass roots programs that do not have the sophistication to do the analysis Ms. Burrus would like them to do, the Lane Center has been in his heart for a long time. It is adjacent to his home. He sees what they do. They are finally getting a Board and moving towards the kind of evaluation Ms. Burrus is looking for. He was moved by the fact that probably six different agencies came before them indicating interaction with this organization. To him that means they are impacting the community and the people that the Committee is trying to help. He agrees that we can't just give away money, but we are not talking about giving them S100,000. We are talking about giving them $3,000 or $4,000. Some of them just do not work in away that lends itself to evaluating. He would like to fund all of the programs with the exception of a couple that are just too new to fund because they do not yet have momentum or a direction. He wants to make sure that they fund Housing & Community Development Act Committee Mecting .%tinutes Page 5 November 13. 2007 small amounts to those organizations that have the capacity to do fund-raising, so we commit to them in appreciation for their undertaking but are mindful of the fact that they cannot give everything to everybody. He suggested allocating 54,000 to the [I.E. Lane program. He said we set a lot for that money. They currently do not have the wherewithal to quantify what we get. He does know that they are doing good. If we had 54,000,000.00 we wouldn't be having this conversation. He has seen what they do. He sees people going in and out of that church and he sees that they are impacting them. They are turning some around. Some will never be turned around. We have to be careful. Aid. Rainey said H.E. Lane did get other funding from the Homeless Fund so they are not totally dependent any longer on just the CDBG funding. Aid. Rainey listed the following allocations to be discussed: Aid. Rainey commended Meals at Home, an organization of volunteers with a commitment to be responsive at certain times every single day. They are bringing the food to the people, they are paying for the food, and this is allowing the people to stay in their homes, which is an even bigger deal. To give them less than 58,250 which is what they got last year, would be wrong. Taking Music to Seniors 52,000. Being low and moderate income shouldn't be just about food, shelter and minimal medical care. It should also involve some kind of community culture and entertainment. That is why she is a huge advocate of this program. The seniors love it and they have gone to places to hear music and dance. They provide tedious, involved evaluations. They deal with many seniors. Less than 523,700 would be wrong. Adaptive Equipment for the Disabled is a new request. It is not for putting toilet bars in senior citizens' homes. For the people who have to devote their entire lives to their children 55,000 it is a minimal amount. Access Employment for Disabled Youth, she would rather put more money into the Employee Youth Program S 1,049, Evanston Community Defender 545,000, Evanston Legal Services for free civil legal services $10,000, Divine Wisdom Institute $2,000, Summer Video Camp SO, Fit to Be Me 54,500, Open Studio Project SO She believes they have many funding options, YAM S 10,000 and she said we need statistics from them, Summer Youth Employment Program 545,000, YWCA Domestic Violence $30,000, Interfaith Action S 1,000, Youth .lob Center of Evanston 550,000, Local Employment & Job Training SO, Police Dept. Senior Crime Prevention 515,000, Police Dept. Safer Neighborhood S1,500, Carepoint 52,000. Aid. Jean - Baptiste suggested not dropping them to 52,000. Aid. Rainey continued: Connections for the Homeless Single Adult Program request for Transportation Passes and Prescription Drugs 53,250, H.E. Lane Ex -Offender and Homeless 54,000. Of Carepoint, Connections for the Homeless and H.E. Lane Ctr., she added that they never got a number as to how many of their clients are eligible for the General Assistance Program, which is available to Township clients and provides comprehensive health care services. The Township only has 69 clients. City Council funds them for 90. She believes transportation is critical. Aid. Bernstein offered that Connections does a lot more than they are able to articulate. Aid. Rainey said these agencies need to share resources. Aid. Bernstein agreed, saying that they have talked about getting an administrator to create interactivity among all of the agencies. We could get better value if they could coordinate their services, but we cannot determine where services are duplicated until someone analyzes that. fie suggested that Sarah will be able to understand this issue as time goes on. She might be able to coordinate from within. No-one will walk out of here happy. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested giving 53,250 to each, Connections for the Homeless and H.E. Lane. Aid. Rainey continued with her suggested allocations: Interfaith Housing Homesharing Program $13,000; they are funded by other sources. We arc one of their lower sources. They provide single room occupancy to many Evanston residents who are disabled, Housing & Community Development Act Committee tteeting Minutes Page 6 November 13, 2007 elderly, young; and unemployed. They are creating housing for people who would never qualify for the Reba Place Housing, who received 5600.000. She continued her suggested allocations: South Evanston Litter Control and Informational Magnets 51,500: they fulfilled their promise of cans and banners with the 55,000 they got last year. They want to expand the area where the cans are placed. Aid. Jean -Baptiste voiced his concern for Carepoint. The kind of proactive intervention they provide is worth more than the 52,000 that Aid. Rainey allotted. Aid. Rainey argued that they can not just serve one kind of service. There is terrible litter and some of the generators happen to be Carepoint. While Carepoint does one thing, the neighbors want to keep the neighborhood clean, so they would like cans. They go around the community picking up trash and this gives them a place to put it. She thinks S 1,500 to $2,000 is minimal. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said he is just trying to balance out how they allocate the funds. Streets and Sanitation also cleans up but we don't have a Health Dept. any more that proactively serves those clients. Even the county is cutting back on these services. fie suggested, they come back and consider Carepoint in the context of the health crisis. Aid. Rainey said this is the neighborhood that has a rat program also. Aid. Rainey continued her allocation suggestions: Fancy Can 53,500, where the clients empty the cans into their own garbage cans and replace the liners. It has been a big moral booster in the 2"', 5d% 411' 0 and 8a' Wards. If someone does not take care of the cans, they are redistributed to another client. Other Aldermen are proponents of the program. She urged the Committee not to underfund this program. Aid. Jean- Baptiste suggested 53,000 for this program. Ald. Rainey asked for S3,500 for this program. Aid. Baptiste agreed.. Aid. Rainey continued: Graffiti Removal Program 530,000, Community Fair SO. Aid. Hansen said she originally was in agreement with Ms. Burrus in not funding some of the programs but after listening to some of the Committee members making an effort to come half way and understanding that some of these programs are grass roots organizations that have been around for a long time, she agreed with allocating $2,000 for DWILL She suggested allocating Art in Action for At Risk Youth $2,500 because this program targets the youth who are in the forefront of everyone's minds. It is an innovative program that no one else has come up with. They have been consistent and shown that they do what they say they are going to do. $2,500 is less than they gave them last year and much less than what they arc asking for this year. She suggested that Y.A.M. receive 59,000 instead ofS10,000 and allocating the Safer Neighborhood Project 52,000. This is a proactive program that in terms of law enforcement, they have not seen and she has been asking; for. She continued with her suggested allocations: Carepoint, 53,200, Connections for the Homeless 53,201, H.E. Lane 52,750. She believes there is duplication of services occurring; between these two. Ms. Flax read the allocations suggested thus far: ,~Teals at Home $8,250, Music Institute of Chicago S1,500, North Shore Senior Center 523,700. Adaptive Equipment f'or the Disabled 55,000, Access Employment for Disabled Youth SO, (Aid. Rainey suggested it be folded into the Summer Youth Program), Evanston Community Defender's Office $45,000, Evanston Legal Services S 10,000, Divine Institute for Learning; Inc. 52,000, Summer Video Camp SO, Girlscouts Fit to be Me 54,500, Open Studio Project 52,500, Y.A.M. 59,000, Summer Youth Employment Program 545,000, YWCA Domestic Violence Services 535,000, Interfaith Action of Evanston Job Counselor Service S 1,000, Youth .lob Center of Evanston S50,000, Local Employment Program & Job Training SO, Senior Crime Prevention 515,000, Safer Neighborhood Area Project 52,000, Carepoint 53,200, Connections for the Homeless 53,000, H.E. Lane Ctr. 53,201, Interfaith Homesharing; Program S 13,000, South Evanston J. - _ _ .. ^ 1. ..c. i '!: era'• r Housing & Community Development Act Commince Mceting Minutes Page 7 November t 3, 2007 Neighborhood Program Litter Control S 1,500, Adopt a Fancy Can $3,500, Graffiti Removal 530,000, Community Fair SO. At this point they were over 5252 the funds available. Aid. Rainey asked that they do not reduce the allocation to Adopt a Fancy Can. Ms. Burrus suggested reducing the allocation to The Fit to Be Me. Aid. Jean -Baptiste agreed, making it 54,248 for Fit to Be Me. That made it even. See attached for the final allocations approved by the Committee. REHABILITATION — HOUSING & COMMERCIAL CATEGORY Aid. Rainey moved to review the City -Rehabilitation Housing & Commercial allocations. She moved the following allocations: Neighborhood Security 530,000, CEDA Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance S 150,000, Citizens Lighthouse Land Trust SO, Housing Acquisition Proposal SO, Community Development Dept. Neighborhood Fagade Improvement Progmm 535,000 Community Development Housing Rehab Administration S324,000 for a total of 5539,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded that motion. The Committee voted unanimously to approve these allocations. CODE ENFORCEMENT CATEGORY Aid. Rainey moved to fund the City -Property Standards Code Compliance Program $425,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said they had 5300,000 last year and they were able to do the job. This new allocation boosts them by S125,000. They were short an inspector last year. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Janusz to tell them the breakdown of what 5125,000 would pay for. Mr. Janusz said that last fiscal year they had an additional inspector in the budget. One inspector was cut so they have a total staff of5 field people. Ald. Rainey asked if it was an inspector for the target area. Mr. Janusz replied that one position was cut. They allocated what they had available accordingly. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Janusz what it costs to pay one inspector. Mr. Janusz replied that is costs approximately 560,000, depending on the exact position. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he would agree to add 560,000 to last year's allocation, making it $360,000. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Janusz to break down what this year's request pays for. Mr. Janusz said the requested amount of S437,976 pays for 5 inspectors, one of which is a supervisor, a graffiti technician, 1 secretary, and 1 clerk. Ms. Flax interjected that it used to include the Community Development project. HUD required that they allocate the supervisory staff to their positions, which is one of the reasons the Housing Code Compliance and Housing Rehab both had to absorb the parts of those positions that had been in a separate activity in prior years. In this fiscal year S 108,500 of supervisory staffing costs for all of the Mousing Rehab and Code Compliance, which was previously funded by CDBG, was allocated to those 2 projects, so they've gone up significantly. She further explained: This money would have been allocated to a separate project that funded a portion of the Community Development Director and his secretary for the time they spend on CDBG related issues. Instead those amounts were rolled into the individual projects per HUD's request. The expenses have to be with the accomplishments in HUD's database whereas in prior years they were funded separately. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said the graffiti technician is included in this request for funds. Mr. Janusz stated that the graffiti technician also does sign inspections and enforcement part of the time. He has requested 520,000 to pay the graffiti removal contractor within tite Code Compliance request. Ald. Rainey said the funding for the graffiti removal contractor is paid for out of the City's budget. It is combined funding. S 15,000 was requested for graffiti removal last year. They are on the verge of breaking 520,000 for this year. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested they Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting Minutes Page 8 November 13, 2007 come back to this issue. Ms. Burrus asked whether part of the request is to pay for salaries at the current salary level for Mr. Janusz and Mr. Nolinski. Mr. Janusz said that it is. Ms. Burrus argued that since they arc both retiring, the salaries will change since they probably won't hire someone new at the same salary level. Aid. Bernstein responded to Ms. Burrus's comment, that they will probably need more hands since they won't have people with the same experience as Mr. Janusz and Mr. Wolinski, adding that this year they have added nuisance enhancement, demolition and many different areas of Mr. Janusz's job description. He would not like to drop this allocation below S400,000 or 5375,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested holding it at 5375,000. The Committee voted unanimously to allocate 5375,000 to the City's Property Standards Code Compliance program. PUBLIC FACILITIES & IMPROVEMENTS CATEGORY Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to allocate the following: Ridgeville Park District Elks Park Field House SO, Fleetwood Jourdain Improvements S 100,000, Alley Paving Program 575,000, Alley Special Assessment Assistance Program S 10,000, 2008 ADA Curb Ramp Replacement 570,000, 2008 Block Curb and Sidewalk 575,000, Improvement for Energy Efficiency 512,000, McGaw YMCA S40,000, Family Focus boiler and other repairs S47,223. Aid. Rainey addressing the Ridgeville Park District, said she likes the project but one of the issues is that there is no money in hand for the S600,000 project. She would like to spotlight this project next year, when they have received some other kind of support, for instance from the taxpayers in the area. She believes the City may have to help with the maintenance of the building. She is willing to allocate S 120,000 as part of a bigger picture but there is no other fund to draw from. It doesn't appear to her that they expect to bet enough money until next year. November of next year may be the perfect time to approve this project. She asks that the Committee remember her suggestion next year at this time. Aid. Hansen commended Aid. Rainey, saying she spoke eloquently. She was looking for a way to fund the Elks Park Field House, but knowing how much it would actually cost to build, giving them half or one third will not help this year. She agrees with Aid. Rainey about funding them next year. She moved the following allocations in response to Aid. Jean-Baptiste's suggestions: Fleetwood Jourdain 575,000, 2008 Alley Paving Program 580,000, Alley Special Assessment Assistance 510,000, 2008 ADA Curb Ramp Replacement 575,000, 2008 Block Curb and Sidewalk 575,000, Evanston Day Nursery S10,000, McGaw YMCA Elevator S40,000, Family Focus S30,000. Aid. Rainey seconded that motion. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Flax for the status of the Family Focus elevator issue. Ms. Flax reported that they have been working on a voluntary compliance agreement to install an inclined lift to make the building ADA accessible. They are waiting for HUD's representative to revise the document so it can be signed. They are working with Family Focus, lift -installation experts, the State of Illinois and the federal government, all of whom agree that a lift is a feasible solution. Once the document is signed, this year's funds that are allocated for their repairs and for the theater production that is taking place in their building, will be disbursed. All funding was contingent on that agreement being reached. Aid. Bernstein asked whether there were funds available to pay for the lift. Ms. Flax asked "Kevin" of Family Focus to answer. Mr. James Franky, counsel for Family Focus, said everyone has agreed that this lift is the right way to go. The federal government and the State of Illinois have signed off on it. The City of Evanston has agreed conceptually, but has requested more formal plans. Regarding funding for it, there is funding already allocated for it and Family Focus is ready and willing to spend the money as soon as the paperwork allowing this type of equipment is signed. This will bring them into compliance. Aid. Rainey Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting Stinutes Page 9 November 13, 2007 clarified that this type of equipment has been the cause of the controversy. She said regarding this expenditure, she would like the Committee to require the expenditure of the funds for which it is designated, be made during the year they are requested. The Committee cannot continue to allocate money for large capital projects that, because they are not fully funded, are held over year after year. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he agrees unless they specify otherwise in their request, because timing is sometimes an issue for them. Aid. Rainey said HUD requires that they ask for an extension during that year. Aid. Bernstein suggested requiring that they make due diligence toward completion, then show the committee if they need an extension. The Fleetwood Jourdain renovation was discussed. They will use the money for the kitchen first. They combined the two rooms in the request because the designer did all the plans at once. 575,000 gets them a long way towards completion. The Committee voted to approve the allocations as attached with the condition regarding extensions. CLEARANCE & DEMOLITION CATEGORY Aid. Rainey moved to allocate 57,000 to the City -Community Development Demolition program. The Committee voted unanimously to approve. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CATEGORY Aid. Rainey moved to allocate to the Evanston Community Development Corp. $45-000 and the Technology and Business Center Initiative 525,000, for a total of $70,000 in this category. Ms. Burrus seconded the motion. This left a balance of $31,911 yet to be allocated. Aid. Hansen proposed increasing the allocation to ECDC to S60,000. Aid. Rainey agreed with that change but said she did not want to add to the Technology & Business Center. Aid. Hansen requested that for the Safer Neighborhood Project they allocate $6,500, as requested, leaving a balance of 510,411. Ms. Burtvs suggested allocating the remaining S 10,411 to Fleetwood Jourdain. Aid. Rainey agreed with this suggestion. Aid. Bernstein said he is concerned about the ability of the Technology Innovation to reach the target people. They do wonderful things with startup businesses but he wonders if the folks they are trying to reach are at a point where they can be assisted by this program. He wants to see strong evidence that they are reaching the targeted population. Aid. Rainey agreed. Ms. Breen agreed about the Business Technology Center. She would rather fund the Fleetwood Jourdain project or Family Focus than to fund this plan, which does not seem complete for reaching the demographic. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested, given the fact that ECDC is trying to address business development that they partially fund the Technology Center and require that they collaborate with ECDC, as they had said they would in their presentation. This would be a way to ensure that they do. He suggested allocating 515,000 to them and add it to ECDC to collaborate with them. Aid. Rainey said she would support giving it to Fleetwood Jourdain. They had been allocated 585,411. Now Fleetwood Jourdain would be funded 595,000 and the Technology Innovation Center would get S 15,000. That brings the total allocations up to 52,125,786. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the amended allocation to Fleetwood Jourdain of $90,000, the Evanston Community Development Corp. 560,000 and the Technology Innovation Center S 15,000. Aid. Rainey said she was not confident that ECDC needs $60,000, but would go along with it. She said she hopes to hear from the Technology Innovation Center. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting Minutes Page 10 November 13, 2007 "OTHER"CATEGORY The Committee voted unanimously to allocate 56,500 to the Safer Neighborhood Project, as suggested by Aid. Hansen during the discussion about Economic Development allocations. The Committee voted unanimously to approve the total of 52,125.786 funds available as listed in the attached allocation spreadsheet. IV. CITIZEN/STAFF COMMENT The Committee did not request comment from the citizen/staff. Aid. Rainey thanked the Committee for their hard work. The Committee thanked Sarah Flax for a great job. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:12 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bobbie Newman APPRVD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, December 18, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Bun -us, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm and asked staff for an update on 1817 Church Street and Family Focus. Staff reported the locks have been changed following the City's recovery of the property on October 26. Two break-ins had occurred; the motive appeared to be seeking shelter. The rear doorshwindows on the second and third floors have been reinforced and Facilities Maintenance was assessing other repair or maintenance needs. The City's plan to use remaining funds from the grant to EWCDC to maintain the property until its disposition to another organization to fulfill the objective of opening a Black American museum/cultural center had been included in the One Year Action Plan. Any funds above those needs would be allocated to the Alley Special Assessment Assistance program. As projected in May, that program is over budget. To date, assessments of qualified applicants total over $62,000 vs. budgeted funds of $40.000. Assessment notices haven't been sent to property owners on one alley, so that may increase. Staff reported that plans to install an inclined platform lift that is compliant with ADA requirements are not be feasible because to meet Illinois Accessibility requirements, the lift must have a 48" long platform. A platform of this size will reduce the stairway width to about 3 1 " when open, violating building code requirements for a minimum of 36" to accommodate 50 or fewer people. (This was corroborated by Jim Hagy. Family Focus board member.) Because the Voluntary Compliance Agreement drafted by MUD is based on installing such a lift, a new agreement will have to be drafted. The I IUD representative handling this issue is out of the office until January; staff will communicate these findings to him upon his return. As noted in the 2008/09 Action Flan. CDBG funds allocated to Family Focus will continue to be held by the City pending resolution of this complaint. II. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2008/09 ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN AND 2008/09 CDBG BUDGET Aid. Rainey opened the public hearing on the One Year Action Plan. noting that seeking community input is a requirement of the CDBG program and that all input would be addressed in the Action Plan prior to its submission to City Council for adoption at its meeting on January 14, and to HUD on January 15, 2008. Sta1T reviewed the sign -in sheet and noted that no one indicated they wished to make a comment. Ald. Rainey encouraged those in attendance to provide their input. Robert Roy, Executive Director, Evanston Community Defender Office, thanked the Committee for including legal and social work services among the recommended allocations, Housing d Community Development Act Committee Meeting Minutes Page 2 December 18, 2007 noting that this includes the Legal Assistance Foundation as well as his agency. Mr. Roy said that life circumstances that require legal counsel can be daunting and that CDBG funding makes this help available to people of limited means at a critical moment in their lives, often enabling them to make changes they otherwise might not have the capacity to do. He said that just because you are poor doesn't mean you are impoverished but sometimes it is difficult for people to see their cup as half full when they are faced with challenging circumstances. He read a note that they include with toys distributed to their clients at the holidays, "Yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery. today is a gift and that's why we call it the present." Mr. Roy continued, saying that the work that you (the CD Committee) do with the allocations in the Public Services category is a gift to the people in this community who are not impoverished but are financially unable to get the kind of help you fund to give to them. Aid. Rainey thanked Mr. Roy and reiterated the value the CD Committee places on the Evanston Community Defender OfBce's work. Aid. Rainey asked if any others wanted to speak; there were none. Staff noted that three items received in writing and included in committee members' packages would be entered as public comment. 1. Pat Vance, Executive Director of CEDA, recognizing the importance of continuing to address the need for affordable housing in Evanston and acknowledging the Committee's recognition of that need in their funding decisions. 2. The McGaw YMCA thanked the Committee for additional funding to repair the passenger elevator that serves its 172-room men's residence facility. 3. Organization Latina de Evanston (OLE) wrote in support of the Technology Innovation Center's Evanston Business Ownership program to help start-ups and small businesses get loans. Staff noted that the public comment period on the 2008109 One Year Action Plan and CDBG budget would remain open through January 4, 2008 and that any additional input received would be included in that plan. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 13, 2007 MEETING Aid. Jean -Baptista moved approval of the minutes, Ald. Hansen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. Committee members recognized Bobbie Newman, noting that the minutes were very detailed and accurately recounted their discussion. rv, CITIZEN/STAFF COMMENT Staff reported that HUD's 2008 budget, including CDBG, still had not been appropriated by Congress. If the omnibus bill currently being considered is passed, the City's entitlement grant was expected to be approximately 3% lower than the estimate used for budgeting. If the omnibus bill is not passed,l-IUD could be funded under a continuing resolution as in 2007. V. APPROVAL OF THE 2008/09 ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved that the 2008/09 One Year Action Plan and CDBG Budget be recommended to the City Council for adoption at its January 14, 2008 meeting. The motion was seconded by Aid. Hansen and approved unanimously. Vt. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, February 19, 2008 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Ald. Hansen, AId. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 18, 2007 MEETING Minutes were approved as submitted. Ill;. REVISIONS TO 2008/09 CDBG PROJECT AND PROGRAM GRANTS BASED ON RECEIPT OF THE CITY'S ENTITLEMENT GRANT The City's 2008109 CDBG entitlement grant received in early February is $1,929,762; this is $51,620 less than the estimate provided by [IUD that was used in the 11/13/07 allocation meeting on November 13, 2007. Staff reported that this was the lowest CDBG entitlement grant since 1996. In addition to cutting CDBG in 2008, the 2009 budget submitted by President Bush included even deeper cuts to the program. NCDA and other organizations are mobilizing again to fight this. The proposed revisions to grant amounts based on the final grant amount and the new cap for Public Services were reviewed. Aid Jean -Baptiste noted that the most significant reduction was in Family Focus' grant allocation. Staff explained this cut was proposed because all CDBG funding for Family Focus, including $30,000 allocated in the 2007/08 fiscal year, remains on hold pending resolution of the citizen complaint regarding lack of access for the disabled to that facility. As a result, reducing the Family Focus grant has less immediate impact than reducing a grant for a project that can move forward. A total of $36,600 in CDBG funds from 2007/08 and 2008/09 remains allocated for Family Focus. When this issue is resolved, these funds may be released to repair the boiler. etc, funding may not allow less immediate needs, like the repair/replacement of sinks in the classrooms, the importance of which had been questioned by committee members during the application review. In addition, a review of all unspent funds could be made to determine if additional funds could be reallocated to Family Focus. Float funding, which has not been used in Evanston, could also be evaluated. Sarah Breen questioned the methodology of reducing most grants by small amounts vs. eliminating less critical programs and maintaining higher levels of support for essential HousUg & Community Development ate committee Meeting UAimAea February 19, 2008 Page 2 programs. Aid Jean -Baptiste noted that this was consistent with the decisions made in the November funding meeting. Coleen Burris commented that the issue is whether very low levels of support for many programs has as much impact as funding fewer programs that have shown effective use of resources and strong outcomes. DWILI, which requested S40,000 and is receiving S1,700. was used as an example where the dollars allocated may not enable them to run the program. Staff noted that all grant recipients were in the process of revising their scope of work based on their CDBG allocation and any other changes in funding since their initial application. In addition, discussions were underway to reduce reporting requirements for grantees by focusing spending in part of the year. as with the Music Institute of Chicago. Coleen Burrus and Sarah Breen both reinforced that based on their experience in the grants field, federal reporting requirements are significantly greater than other funding sources and in effect can use up most of the very small grants through the resources needed to complete the reports. Other factors, including the potential impact of changes in the Mental Health Fund allocations, were noted. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the revised grant allocations as presented, Ald. Bernstein seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. Final grant amounts will be communicated to all recipients. Staff will continue to work with each recipient to finalize the scope of work, timing and reporting requirements for their purchase of services. IV. NEIGHBORHOOD FACADE 151PROVEMENT PROJECT - 1824 CRAIN STREET The Committee discussed the proposed fagade improvement project for up to S19,000 for the 1824 Crain Street property. Pictures showing cracking and broken mortar were viewed bythe committee. Aid. Rainey commented that Donatella Cucina, currently on Howard near the Fish Keg, was looking for more space. Clare's Corner on Emerson and Dodge is also a consideration and could be considered as tenants for the space, which is currently vacant. Sarah Breen asked what would happen in the event the property were to be sold following the improvement. The possibility of it being sold and razed to make way for new development was also discussed. It was agreed that a recapture clause would be included in the agreement stating that CDBG funds invested in the property must be repaid if the building is demolished within five years of completion of the rehab. The need for a structural inspection to ensure that the cracking is cosmetic and not structural was also required. Staff commented that all work done for Neighborhood Fagade projects must meet all federal purchasing requirements, including paying prevailing wages and work must be completed by licensed contractors. Aid. Bernstein moved approval of up to S 19.000 in Fagadc Improvement funds as a 50/50 match for the property owner's investment for this project. Ald. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. V. PLAN FOR DISPOSITION OF 1817 CHURCH STREET Staff noted that the complaint filed with HUD by Bettye Palmer that the City had given the Westside Citizens District Council too little time to complete the rehab of the property and had impeded their ability to complete the work was determined to be unfounded by HUD. HUD does require that the City provide a plan to dispose of the property by February 28. Committee reviewed a draft proposal for discussed how to proceed to achieve the City's objective of establishing a Black/African-American cultural center/museam at the site. The Committee discussed if for -profit developer might be interested in renovating the space. It was noted that the renovation could be beyond the capacity of non -profits that might Housing 3 Cemmw* Development Act Committee Meeting Minutes Febm" 19. 2008 Page 3 run programs in the space. A consortium of stakeholders in the neighborhood could be the most effective way to address the situation. The need for public meetings to engage members of the community who are outside the small group that had undertaken the rehab was discussed. Staff noted that HUD requires public hearings if the proposed use of the property is changed from that for which it was originally funded. As a City owned property, there are additional requirements of a public process if sold. Because of the investment in CDBG funds, the facility must either serve primarily low/moderate income people or the CDBG funds invested returned to the program per CDBG requirements. The possibility of getting a developer to complete the renovation as a contribution to the non-profit that would program the space was also discussed. Aid. Rainey suggested that the financial and tax advantages of the City retaining the property and getting a developer to complete the rehab vs. selling the property to a developer be determined. In addition, the community should be engaged again in the discussion. Aid. Jean - Baptiste noted that there are many different types of museums with a wide range of programming that have been developed. It was agreed that research into best practices for a local cultural center/museum, including programming and sustainability, need to be investigated. A brainstorm idea generation session with experts in the field (e.g., DuSable Museum, Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, etc.) will be planned for May. Ideas generated could be used to establish some parameters for the museum/cultural center. A framework for the project could then be brought to the community to seek input and to develop an RFP. Staff will outline this process for disposition of the property and submit it to HUD by month end. VI. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Aid. Rainey asked for an update on the performance of grantees in the 2007/08 year. Staff provided an update on work with ECDC to get documentation of job creation and technical assistance to businesses as required for Economic Development programs; staff is holding payment of grant funds until this is accomplished. A summary of all grantee performance will be provided at the next Housing & Community Development Act Committee meetine. VII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:55pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MhYUTES OF PUBLIC ;MEETING Tuesday, May 20, 2008 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Adelita Hernandez, Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:35pm. II. APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 19, 2008 MEETING MINUTES. Aid. Bernstein moved approval and Aid. Hansen seconded the motion; minutes were approved as submitted. III. PUBLIC HEARING FOR CITIZEN INPUT ON PROPOSED 2007/08 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT One citizen, Sue Carlson, commented on the CAPER. Sue noted that she had cmailed comments identifying some confusing sentences and typographical errors, including inconsistency in the Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust and one of the charts on page 17. Staff thanked Sue for that input and noted that corrections would be made. Sue noted for the record that the largest percentage of dollars spent in the Housing category goes to pay City staff. Ald. Rainey noted in response that this includes Housing Code Compliance, which is critical to maintaining decent housing in the CDBG Target Area, and Housing Rehab Administration, which implements the rehabs funded through the revolving loan fund, as well as programs like the Scif-Help Paint program, that leverages federal dollars with local funds used for the materials. IV. PUBLIC HEARING FOR CITIZEN INPUT ON COMMUNITI' NEEDS FOR 2009/10 CDBG PROGRAM Several citizens came to express the need for improved landscaping at Washington School. Jenni Suvari, a PTA member and landscape designer who is volunteering her time on this project, explained that the school population is 54% low/moderate income, meeting CDBG eligibility, and the school playground is also used by the community at large, especially by low-income children and families that come to Robert Crown Center in the summer for the free lunch program. She also talked about the collaboration between the PTA/citizens and the school district on this project. The only portion that they need help funding is with planting trees, which addresses the Consolidated Plan goal of improving playgrounds and beautifying the neighborhood. Cost estimate for the trees is S 18,000. Several aldermen on the CD Committee discussed the need to meet with the City's Forestry department to see if the City could purchase the trees for the program through its tree consortium and reduce the expenditure. Aid. Bernstein will convene this meeting prior to formal application for funds. Housing d Community Developmefd Act Committee Meeting Minutes page 2 May 20, 2008 John Mroczka, McGaw YMCA, spoke about the Y's need to improve accessibility to their facility by installing automatic/power assisted doors for the front entryway. This would benefit a wide range of users, including senior citizens with limited mobility coming for chair exercise classes. Residents would also benefit; currently four residents use walkers. Preliminary cost estimate is S20,000 - $25,000. Coleen Burrus asked about the Y's fundraising efforts. John explained that a major project, renovation of the men's locker room, a S500,000 project, is the focus of the Y's fundraising. John also thanked the CD Committee for supporting repair of their Residence passenger elevator, which will be completed by this fall. Margarita MatIis, Organization Latina de Evanston, spoke about needs in the Hispanic community and noted that they needed to become more involved with CDBG. Needs include safe affordable housing, help understanding the American educational system so that parents may better support their children, youth activities including soccer, ESL classes and computer classes taught in Spanish. Aid. Jean -Baptiste noted that funding had just been approved through the mitigation fund for the Dempster -Dodge shopping center for a soccer program. Aid. Rainey suggested OLE work with staff and submit a proposal for a specific need. Adelita Hernandez, Health & Human Services, who does outreach to Evanston residents with limited English, will support this effort. Margarita provided written input on needs; staff will get copies to committee members. Adelita Hernandez noted that she %vas seeing an increase in unplanned pregnancies among lower -income residents of all racial/ethnic groups since the closing of the City's clinic because affordable birth control pills are not available. Aid. Rainey asked for a report on this because the City Council agreed to eliminate services through the City only if the needs would be met elsewhere in the community, Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for a report on Adelita's assignments and activities since the reorganization of the Health & Human Services department. V. STAFFICITIZEN COWNIENT Staff provided information about ethnic museums/cultural centers from a meeting with Rosa Cabrera at the Field Museum's Center for Cultural Understanding and Change to help define how to address the City's goal of opening an African -American museum/cultural center at 1817 Church Street. This topic will be the focus of the June meeting. VI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:35pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, June 17, 2008 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Coleen Burrus, Ald. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax PANEL MEMBERS: Mary Doi, John Low, Jean Mishima I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Alderman Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:32 pm. II. APPROVAL OF May 20, 2008 MEETING MINUTES. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the minutes of the May 20, 2008 meeting. Aid. Hansen seconded the motion. Minutes were approved unanimously as submitted. III. PANEL DISCUSSION: ETHNIC MUSEUMS/CULTURAL CENTERS Staff introduced three guests: Jean Mishima, Board Chair, and Mary Doi, Board Member of the Chicago Japanese American Historical Society, and John Low, Executive Director of the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian. The discussion began with a brief background on the founding of their organizations, their size and structure, programs and activities and who they serve. Discussion included differences between them including that the Chicago Japanese American Historical Society does not have a facility or any paid staff. while the Mitchell Museum has both. Despite those major differences, similarities included education as a major part of their mission and the importance of networking with other organizations (including through Cultural Connections and the Chicago Cultural Alliance, as well as with organizations in other cities that focus on their same ethnic/cultural groups). The importance and challenges of fundraising from individuals, foundations and corporations as a means of generating operating support, as well as membership and events as sources of revenue %sere discussed. Volunteer involvement was identified as key to success and various models for that involvement discussed. Key elements in developing a successful Black/African American museum/cultural center that were identified include a core group of dedicated volunteers Avith strong tics to the community being served, outreach to determine what types of services and programming that community necds/wants and plan for sustaining the organization (financial and programmatic). Potential resources include the Evanston Community Foundation's Root2fruit capacity -building grant program and Northwestern University, including the Kellogg School of Business Management for market analysis. Staff noted that the Evanston Community Development Corporation is working to determine whether to make a proposal for use of the 1817 Church Street property. The Evanston History Center has also indicated some interest in the property. Committee members will identify key IIr Housing & Cfxn wdy oevdopment Aft Coffmace !.leafing MinAes may 20. 2me Page 2 stakeholders who may have interest in this initiative. Jean Mishima, Mary Doi and John Low all expressed willingness to provide additional input and suggestions as the City proceeds with this project. IV. REBA EARLY LEARNING CENTER ENERGY -EFFICIENT LIGHTING PROJECT The request for a loan in the amount of $7,600 from the Reba Early Learning Center to enable them to upgrade the lighting in their facility was discussed. RELC would repay $3,114 immediately following receipt of a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation and the remainder would be repaid over time using savings on their electrical bill. The Committee discussed the repayment terms and agreed on a three-year maximum. Aid. Hansen moved approval and Coleen Burrus seconded the motion; the request was approved unanimously. V. ALLEY PAVING PROGRAb! — LOCATION OF 2008 PROJECT The Committee reviewed the alley recommended for paving using a new permeable surface for the Alley Paving Program. The alley is located north of Dobson and east of Ashland; it is the southern cast -west leg adjacent to DobsoNBrummel Park. This location is enhanced by proximity to the park, which expands the percentage of permeable area within the stormwater catchment area. Aid. Hansen moved approval of this alley for the Alley Paving Program and Aid. Jean - Baptiste seconded the motion; it was approved unanimously. VI. SCHEDULE FOR 2009/I0 CDBG PLANNING Staff provided a schedule of key dates for the 2009-2010 CDBG application process. It was agreed that a second public hearing at the July Housing & Community Development Act Committee meeting would not be scheduled. Staff will publicize the orientation for applicants, submission date, application review meeting dates and funding decision meeting date to the CDBG Interested Parties list and through other media including Highlights, the City e-Newsletter and press releases. VII. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT Pam Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services, informed the committee that she was retiring in August. Her successor, Liz Gordon, has been promoted from within the agency and a smooth transition is anticipated. Pam thanked the committee for its support of ESVSS and for its work to support the needs of low- and moderate -income Evanston residents. The Committee thanked Pam for her many years of dedicated service to Evanston seniors. VIII. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator I APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, September 16, 2008 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 PAL — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Rainey, Crawford Richmond PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Stefanie Levine, Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM The meeting was called to order at Spm. II. APPROVAL OF JUNE 17, 2008 MEETING MINUTES. Coleen Burrus moved approval, Sarah Breen seconded the motion; minutes were approved as submitted III. FLEETWOOD JOURDAIN LANDSCAPING PROJECT UPDATE & REALLOCATION OF FUNDS FROM BLACK SCULPTURE GARDEN PER THE ACTION PLAN In the 2008/09 Action Plan, the City proposed the reallocation of funds remaining from the above -noted project if no additional expenditure of funds was anticipated in the program year; none is anticipated. Stefanie Levine, the Fleetwood Jourdain landscape redesign project manager, reviewed the planned improvements at Fleetwood Jourdain and explained that the current funding pays for the sidewalks, parking lot, tennis and basketball courts and lighting but does not include items such as benches, trash cans or plantings. The $26,095 in CDBG funds under consideration would help fund those items. The committee noted that this reallocation addresses the same goal as the original project, which is to improve the appearance and usability of the outdoor space at Fleetwood Jourdain for the benefit of the neighborhood. Coleen Burrus moved approval of the reallocation; Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. The committee requested that staff locate information on the expenditures on the original project and provide it to the committee. IV. EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION REQUEST TO ESTABLISH A FUND FOR MAKING SMALL GRANTS TO MICRO ENTERPRISES RECEIVING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE USING S10,000 OF THEIR CDBG GRANT The Committee discussed ECDC's request to reallocate grant funds initially budgeted for office space to establish a fund from which to make grants to micro enterprises and small businesses to whom ECDC is providing technical assistance. The Committee requested that staff forward ECDC's most recent quarterly reports and request additional detail from ECDC, including the criteria for grant approval, examples of what grants might support using businesses currently being mentored and ECDC's long-term plans for the grant program. Consider addressing this as part of their application review in Oct for 2009/10 funding. V. NEIGHBORHOOD FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS a. NEW PROJECT — 64143 HOWARD STREET Committee viewed photos of 641-43 Howard (North Suburban Auto Supply) whose owner, Lary Kaufman, has applied for the FaVade Improvement program. Based on size and being a corner property (Howard and Custer) this property qualifies for up to $40,000 in CDBG funding. Staff recommended allocating that amount. Aid Rainey noted that funding should be conditional; that no burglar bars would be installed. Calcen Burrus moved approval to allocate S40,000 for the project with the condition that no burglar bars are installed. Aid Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. Staff will provide updates on progress, including preliminary design sketches, for the committee's review. b. UPDATE ON 1824 CRAIN STREET Staff reported that this fagade project was almost complete and provided photos of interior structural work (not funded through the Fagadc Program but identified as needed to keep cracks in the fagade from reappearing) and tuck pointing. In addition, the roof is being repaired. Aid, Jean -Baptiste what is being done to screen the dumpster on Crain Street; staff will determine this and report to the committee. VI. ALLEY SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ASSISTANCE -HARDSHIP CASE Staff presented a late application for Alley Special Assessment Assistance. The applicant is elderly and applied late due to difficulty understanding the requirements and process for applying in part because English is not his native language. Staff recommended approval to pay the assessment as long as any interest and penalties that have accrued arc paid by the property owner (these arc not eligible under CDBG regulations) so the lien is removed. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that Nancy Flowers and Adelita Hernandez could assist with this process. Colccn Burrus made a motion to approve payment of this special assessment; Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded it; the motion was approved unanimously. VII. 1817 CHURCH STREET DISPOSITION PLANNING Staff provided a summary of a meeting with Ed Davis, who is interested in opening a museum/cultural center in conjunction with a for -profit business selling African art and of discussions with ECDC, who had also indicated an interest in the property. No other parties have been identified at this time. It was agreed that other parties may be identified through the release of an RFP. Developing a Black/African-American museum/cultural center remains a primary goal. Applications must include at minimum a five-year operating plan for the museum/cultural center in addition to their plans for the renovation of the property in order to be considered. Staff' will develop a draft of an RFP for the Committee's consideration. VIII. CDBG PLANNING FOR 2009-2010 a. PER HUD, CLASSIFY EXPENDITURES FOR BOARD-UPS/CLEAN-UPS AS PUBLIC SERVICES; RESEARCHING ALTERNATIVES Interim Assistance (outside the Pubic Services cap) may be the most appropriate category. In addition, this type of work may be an eligible use of the CDBG funding that is part of the Housing & Economic Recovery Act of 2008. Staff will continue to work with HUD on this issue and resolve it prior to the CDBG funding decision meeting on November 11. b. SUMMARY OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED Staff provided a list of applicants for 2009/10 CDBG funding. Total amount. requested (not including the revolving loan fund) is just under $3.6 million, up about 550,500 from 2008/09 requests. Total number of applications is 41 vs. 50 in 2008/09 (see attached spreadsheet). Staff is preparing binders of applications for the Committee members; information on the performance of those receiving grants in 2008/09 will be included. IX. COMMUNICATION: HUD LETTER TO FAMILY FOCUS REGARDING ACCESSIBILITY AT THE WEISSBOURD-HOLINIES FAMILY FOCUS CENTER Staff noted that HUD has indicated that it has no jurisdiction over the issue of lack of accessibility to the building as all CDBG funding is being held by the City. 1IUD provided specific information it recommends the City require of Family Focus if any future application for funding is to be considered. Staff noted that Family Focus had submitted an application for $287,190 in 2009110 CDBG funds to install an elevator. The application does not include plans or drawings or any indication of how the cost of the project was determined. The applicant notes that additional funds will have to be raised before any wort: would start; no plan or timeframe for the fundraising was included. Aid Rainey asked Mary Freidl if she would like to make any comment. Mary noted that she would review Family Focus' application for compliance with HUD's recommendation and if found lacking, the 2009/10 funding application should not be considered. Coleen Burros and Sarah Breen noted that corporations and foundations were not likely to fund this sort of project, and a plan that targets individual givers, including the Family Focus board of directors, should be developed. It was noted that holding almost $300,000 if there is no plan or timeline for raising the additional funds would not be a responsible use of funds. Sarah Breen moved that the $36,600 in 2007/08 and 2008/09 CDBG funds that are being held pending resolution of the accessibility issue be reallocated as part of the 2009/10 CDBG program year. Aid Rainey noted that a formal vote on this action should be included as part of the reallocation of remaining funds from other completed CDBG activities at the November 1 I funding meeting. X. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Staff noted that a property improved through the Housing Rehab program was in foreclosure due to loss of income resulting from the death of one of the owners. Discussion on what action could be taken to prevent foreclosures of Housing Rehab assisted properties followed. Staff will provide the number of Rehab loans to the committee and consider if interventions can be implemented to reduce potential additional foreclosures. Staff provided an update from NCDA regarding the $3.9 billion in CDBG funds that are part of the Housing & Economic Development Recovery Act of 2008. I -IUD will issue its formula for allocating those funds and the regulations for their use on September 29. XI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:35pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator APPROVED HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, October 14, 2008 Evanston Civic Center 7:00 p.m. — City Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jcan- Baptiste, Aid.Rainey, Crawford Richmond MEMBERS ABSENT: Sarah Breen STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Jackie Brownlee PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF OUORUAI Chair Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:14 p.m., a quorum being, present. The Committee members and staff introduced themselves. Chair Rainey explained the order of procedure for the applicants to fully introduce themselves by giving their names, agency or program and a brief summary of the program. II. 2009/10 CDBG PROGRAM — REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS Youth Action Ministrv. NFP/Annual College Retreat Contact Info: Mr. Kenneth Rodgers, Executive Director Address: Fleetwood Jourdain Center, 1655 Foster Street, Evanston, 847-328-1912 Amount Reauestcd: S20,000 Summarv: Ms. Ashley Ingram, Co -President & Jr. at ETHS, stated that Youth Action Ministry (YAM) usually holds its meetings on the second Saturday of each month at 9:00 a.m. Ms. Shanice Moore, Co -President, stated that she is 16 years of age and a Jr. at ETHS. She acknowledged YAM's Board of Directors in attendance. She said that comments will be made this evening by two board members speaking about their experiences with the recent retreat followed by closing comments by the Sr. Advisor. Ms. Chelsea Ransom, Vice President, stated she is a freshman and attended her first College Retreat this past summer. She said that the retreat was very educational and opened her eyes to the college experience and new places. They visited several colleges i CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 2 in the Washington, D.C. area including Howard, Georgetown, and George Washington Universities. Ms. Ransom also enjoyed the site -seeing tour of the Washington D.C. area, which made the overall retreat a very well-rounded educational experience. She strongly recommends that all students attend the college retreat through YAM. Ms. Patrice Newsom said she is 15 years old and the YAM Excel Treasurer. She attended the college retreat for the first time this past summer as a freshman. She also shared her memorable experiences of the trip and highly recommended that her peers attend. Not only was it educational but she developed many friendships through the program and experiences that made a lasting impression on her. Ms. Newsom was especially impressed by their host in D.C., Ms. Jennifer Benton, who is a graduate of ETHS, an alumna of Howard University and former President of YAM. Ms. Derriel!c Mitchell stated that she is a Sr. at ETHS and the Sr. Advisor for YAM. She has been a member of YAM since her freshman year and began by doing various community service activities. By her sophomore year she upgraded her responsibilities to treasurer and by Jr. year was president of the program and is now Sr. Advisor; helping others to join the program. Ms. Mitchell noted that YAM has been recognized by the Congressional Black Caucus, Jesse Jackson, Maxine Waters, and Jan Schakowsky for their involvement in the community and strength of their program. She said YAM has been active for 27 years and 97% of participants have gone on to attend college. Ms. Mitchell noted that the program is offered to youth in the Chicagoland area, especially Evanston and they are now branching out to more suburbs to the west. Ms. Mitchell stated that in view of the current economic situation; the YAM Board of Directors has decided to make the retreat a long weekend instead of having a week-long trip costing approximately $350400 per student; this would to reduce the cost and make the trip accessible to more students. She strongly recommends the YAM Excel College Retreat to all students because it is a great educational and uplifting experience. Ms. Mitchell recognized that this program is not limited to a certain group based on economic or racial background; it is open to all races and genders. She wished more of the male members were able to make it this evening, noting that they had other commitments. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked how many students attended the retreat this summer. Ms. Mitchell responded that approximately 40 students attended, however they are anticipating more students next year with the time and fee changes. Chair Rainey also requested that they correct the inconsistencies in the program budget numbers and participants because these numbers have to be reported to HUD. Mr. Rodgers concurred and will take care of before the November i IIh meeting. She commended Ms. Mitchell on being a great spokesperson for the organization. Ald. Bernstein seconded that and complimented the entire program and what they have accomplished. Ald. Jean -Baptiste suggested that they get more males to come with them with then return before the Committee. Mr. Rodgers thanked the Committee for all their support. d CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 3 Girl Scouts of Greater Chicaeo & N.W. Indiana/Fit To Be Me Contact Info: Patricia Reyes, Girl Recruitment Manager Address: 650 N. Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills, 847-573-0500 Amount Reouested: $10,500 Summarv: Ms. Reyes quoted the Girl Scout mission which is "To build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place." She noted that the Vernon Hills Regional Service Center would like to expand "Fit to Be Me" Program for girls in Evanston. She explained that the Fit to Be Me Program is an umbrella program designed to teach girls how to live healthier lives through exercise, improved healthy and nutritional choices, the understanding of positive body images and emotional development. Child and adolescent obesity and weight control are among today's top public health concerns. Approximately 9,000,000 children over the ages of 6 arc obese and since 1980 the percentage of over -weight girls (ages 6-19) has doubled. Ms. Reyes noted that type-2 diabetes is quickly becoming an issue among youth, especially among African -American and Hispanic girls, She said that advocacy is critical to educate and influence girls to lead healthier lives and this is why they would like to continue their Fit To Be Me Program in Evanston. Ms. Reyes explained that the requested grant of $10,500 will help them provide serve 175 girls, ages 11-17, with their healthy initiative. She said their program will impact girls on the west and south sides of Evanston through collaborations with Evanston -based youth services such as Family Focus and Y.O.U. They will also collaborate with additional Evanston -based businesses and professionals to offer this exciting program to Evanston girls. Ms. Reyes noted that 115 girls will participate through Family Focus and 60 girls will participate through Y.O.U. She said that participants will be drawn directly from the CDBG Target Area and /or low income households. She noted that their collaborative partners have systems in place to ensure that girls who participate in their program are from low income households. Each girl's experience will consist of 6-9 hours of outcome -based programs in 30-90 minute weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sessions and additional guest presentations, educational based field trips to support their healthy program. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey said that one of the things that she is very impressed with is the fact that this organization has already secured $16,000 in outside funding. She commended the Girl Scouts for their efforts and finds this program very valuable in helping many girls in the specified age group and economic category make better choices and develop healthier living styles. She noted to the Committee members that she has noticed that so many more applicants are asking for less and less funding and making more effort towards securing outside CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 4 funding which she finds admirable and is one of the goals that this Committee has been stressing to accomplish with the applicants that come before them year after year. Onen Studio Proiect Inc. Contact Info: Ms. Dayna Block, Executive Director Address: 903 Sherman Avenue, Evanston, 847475-0390, Email: www.onenstudionroiect.ora Amount Requested: $3,500 Summarv: Ms. Block first gave an open invitation requesting for volunteer participation. She thanked the Committee for their past support of their Art and Action Program. She stated that Open Studio Project is a non -profit arts and social service agency that has been in Evanston for 8 years. They offer fee -for -service classes, have an extensive community outreach program and a mission -driven gallery. She noted that her organization is requesting funds for their Art and Action Program. She gave a brief summary of their program goals. Ms. Block explained that the Art and Action Program provides free year-round after school and summer programming to at -risk youth between the ages of 9 and 18 years. She noted that they served approximately 550 low -to - moderate income youth this year. They work in collaboration with Evanston -based service providers such as Peer Services, Y.O.U.. 31' Century, and others. She said they have multi -week classes using drawing, painting and sculpture combined with writing, which is a method she developed working with two other art therapists. Ms. Block noted that she teaches this method at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and it is also taught in graduate programs around the country. Ms. Block explained that teens come into their studio and write down what they want to gain from being in the program. The ranee of reasons stated by their students includes trying to figure out and understand why they cot into an argument with another friend to substance abuse issues. Each student writes an intention statement, and then makes art using really simple materials. The program staff encourages each student to explore the materials and urges them to try and get back into a "kindergarten state of mind" where they arc not judging their work. Afterwards. each student is given the opportunity to write about their work; this is referred to as "«itness writing." Ms. Block explained that they gather as a group and offer an opportunity for each student to read what they wrote (or not if the student prefers). Each student has a notebook in which they write weekly notes that is kept at the studio for them. She said the students are encouraged to express their true inner feelings without holding back and it is strongly stressed that they will not be judged or reprimanded for anything they «rite. Ms. Block tells her students that she will review their notebooks each week to ensure there is nothing that indicates to her that they could possibly hurt themselves or others. Total confidentiality is assured, however CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 5 she is obligated to report any concerns for their safety or wellbeing identified from their writing to the counselor from their Agency. Ms. Block noted that the goals of the program are to help student to express difficult emotions, especially anger and despair, to increase the students ability to manage emotions that lead to violent behavior and substance abuse, to demonstrate healthy emotional self-expression, to increase ability to make healthy choices regardless of outside influences (a challenge at the high school level), demonstrate motivation towards self-improvement and positive life styles and increase empathy and social skills. She said each course ends in a performance and exhibit that is curated by the students, who choose what artwork and writing to put in the exhibit. his. Block stated that this is a very positive experience for the students for three reasons: 1) their family and friends come; 2) sometimes their parole officer or social worker attend and the student is seen as an artist versus a trouble -maker; and 3) this exhibit is attended by the community which she feels is very important for others to see the individual through their artwork and writing the truth of their experience and instead of getting in trouble for it, the student is valued for expressing what they are truly feeling inside and become better understood as a person. Ms. Block concluded by reading several statements made by students from her most recent class and their experience from this program. All the student statements read were from kids dealing with substance abuse problems and their overall feelings of how the program has helped them in some way or another. Ouestions and Comments: Ald. Hanson stated that she is a big fan of this program. She feels the program is unique to this community and very valuable in helping many youths who struggle with emotional and substance abuse problems. She requested information on the next scheduled exhibit because she would be very interested in attending; other Committee members expressed the same interest. Ms. Block assured them she will forward the information and welcomed their attendance. Evanston Youth Initiative Contact Info: Mr. Jonathan Peppers, President, Mr. Ronny Canon, Vice President Address: P.O. Box 5582. Evanston, meetings are held at the Levy Center on Dodge Avenue on the first Saturday of each month, 847414-5073. Amount Requested: S25.000 Summarv: Mr. Peppers said that the Evanston Youth Initiative came about out of necessity after a loss of life of young Evanston man in July, 2005 due to violence. lie said that several members of the community got together to try and figure out what they can do to deal with the violence in the community and improve life in the community in general. Through several meetings and much brainstorming, the group formed a mission statement which is: "to unite resources to help develop and support productive skills to support and help Evanston Black youth and families." Mr. Peppers stated that in trying to achieve this mission statement, they have met with representatives from District 4202 CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 6 including Bill Stafford and Dr. Witherspoon, who have been very receptive, and representatives from District 965 including Dr. Hardy Murphy and other members of his staff. He noted that their organization has promoted the Million Father March two years in row at both of the Evanston school districts. Both events have been very successful and they would like to continue because this event is supposed to be a year -long commitment. Mr. Peppers noted that their organization has met with Mr. Sol Anderson from the City of Evanston and the Evanston YMCA. He noted that they are trying to meet with Evanston social service organizations and agencies to try and improve the life of community residents, deal with violence life in general to keep such incidents from happening. For example, by improving parenting, and student self-esteem and motivation through mentoring and assistance to bring their grades up. Mr. Peppers noted that the organization generally holds 3 events during the year and would like to hold more events; with the projection of possibly doubling that number to at least 6 events. He said the request for funds would help them to achieve this goal this increase in events per year by enabling them to better coordinate with the City's Youth Coordinator, Mr. Anderson. Funds would be used for computer equipment, office furniture and supplies needed and an information management system to help them accumulate all of their statistical data in a more readily available and organized format to aid them in doing their work more effectively and better deliver their services. Mr. Peppers informed that so far they have held several meetings with members of the targeted community; the first meeting was at the Fleetwood Jourdain Community Center in collaboration with the Evanston Police Department and included various seminars. These seminars allowed members of the community to feel free to have open exchange of communication and discussion with members of the Police force. From that meeting, the Police and community members were able to better understand each other and move forward in a more combined effort. Mr. Ronny Canon informed the Committee of the Evanston Youth Initiative main goals. He stated that their intent is to reach out to community members, representatives from both Evanston school districts, and the Evanston Police Department to come together to support community residents and parents most in need of help. All parties would communicate their concerns and from there figure out a way to work together to start resolving the many violence issues that face our neighborhoods and affect our youth. Ouestion and Comments: Chair Rainey asked for more elaboration on how this organization interacts with the City's Youth Coordinator, Mr. Sol Anderson and the Youth Advocate and other programs. Mr. Peppers responded that they constantly keep in close contact and dialogue with Mr. Anderson. Both parties make it a point to attend each others programs and events. He commended Mr. Anderson's work and respects their working relationship. Ms. Burrus stated that from the presentation this evening, she understands what the organization is trying to accomplish, however she would like to have further information on what outcomes are anticipated because this information would be very helpful for a full understanding of the program and how the requested funds would help achieve those outcomes. Mr. Peppers responded that the outcome CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 7 would be to improve life in general by continuing the efforts to bring the community together with the noted institutions to work more efficiently and effectively towards a goal of lessening violent behavior and incidents among youth Aid. Bernstein asked where they were looking to locate their office.. Mr. Peppers responded that a location has not been determined. Aid. Bernstein asked who they planned to have speak at workshops. Mr. Peppers responded that they would have motivational speakers and individuals who specialize in education and community building. The Committee members acknowledged the value of the Million Father March which promotes the involvement of fathers and male role models with their children on the first day of school and throughout the school year; they commended the efforts of this organization. Evanston Communitv Defender Office/Leval & Social Work Services Contact Info: tits. Naria Santa Lucia, Executive Director, Ms. Patricia Gladen, Evanston resident and President of the Board of Directors, Mr. Jerry Esrick, Board of Directors member Address: 828 Davis Street, Suite #304, Evanston, 847-442-1410, Website at www.evanstondefender.orq. The representatives welcomed all and any volunteer efforts, Amount Renuestcd: $50,000 Summarv: Ms. Lucia stated that they are here this evening to request CDBG funds to support their legal services and social work. The Evanston Defender's mission is to integrate legal representation and social work services on behalf of Evanston youth and families. She said they operate from the core belief that if young person feels alienated at home or disengaged, they are more likely to act out/ react through delinquent behavior. Therefore hey do not think of their clients' issues as just legal, but consider the whole situation; they make sure that they address the needs at home in the family and in the community through their social work program. Through this approach, they are able to provide exceptional legal representation. More important, they are able to give their clients the tools to move forward and turn their lives around, and to prevent recurrence of delinquent behavior and lifestyle. She stressed that their main goal is to assist and counsel the client so that they don't have to represent them again and so they become productive members of the community. Ms. Lucia noted that the Evanston Community Defender Office has been in existence for over 30 years, but there arc new, exciting and interesting developments in their organization. Their Board has spent a lot of time in strategic planning and organizational development in the areas of programming and created a 3-part program approach: 1) Legal Advocacy and representation, 2) Juvenile Delinquency prevention, and 3) Client and community restoration. She assured that their agency Iooks forward to in the future years of building on their existing programs in these 3 areas and growing to better serve their Evanston community clients. Ms. Lucia noted that they would like to expand on some of their existing programs in place Specifically "Aggression Replacement Therapy" CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 8 working with YOU they would work directly with the high school and junior high schools in Evanston by teaching and educating targeted youth about their rights, conflict resolutions and advocacies. Also they would like to expand this program and deliver this training working with the Summer Youth Employment Program in the 2009. They are also working with the Center for independent Futures. She noted that all the above mentioned are part of the juvenile delinquency prevention program. However, legal advocacy and representation is the highlight of what their organization does. Ms. Lucia explained that they represent young people in juvenile delinquency proceedings, adult felony proceedings and school disciplinary matters, and link all of their clients with social services. She noted that they are looking to expand their client base by working directly with the Juvenile Division at the Public Defender's Office in downtown Chicago to identify more Evanston clients; they are also working with juvenile probation to serve individuals whose cases are not being prosecuted before a judge but are being resolved through negotiation. She stated that such cases are the ones her organization is going to start making an effort obtaining directly from Juvenile Probation and helping those individuals to turn their lives around with assistance from their social services program. Ms. Lucia noted that their request for funding would provide necessary resources to the Evanston Community Defender Office to deliver legal and social work services to Evanston young people in need and support for needed case management, community outreach, and individual or family counseling. Ms. Lucia informed the Committee that they have requested funding from the Illinois Bar Association and other outside agencies to support their organization. Ms. Lucia stated that in the area of client and community restoration, one of the important things they do is help their clients expunge and seal their records. She pointed out that this is very important because if you are a juvenile, you do not have the opportunity for housing or education if you have an open criminal record. Therefore, her agency tries to educate all of their clients about the opportunities to assist them through such problems. She noted that one of the really exciting things they are working on is to set up an expungement help desk at the Skokie Court House to assist low-income Evanston residents 21 years of age and under. Ms. Lucia informed the Committee that the Evanston Community Defender Office has recently hired a new juvenile attorney and a new social worker and has expanded their program to include social work interns. Their organization has received in -kind services from a Chicago design company that is owned by Evanston residents and they have designed a new logo for their agency as "Evanston Defender" because Evanston Community Defender Office is such a mouthful. Also they have developed a new tag line called "Integrated Legal and Social Services for Evanston Youth" and are launching a major outreach campaign through schools, churches and other social organizations to let them know about their program and ensure that if any young person gets into trouble in Evanston and needs legal and/or social assistance; their program will readily available. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey questioned the assistance provided for any clients outside of Evanston and how they handle those individuals. Ms. Lucia responded that they do receive many clients in that category and have the resources to refer them to M CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of If)- I d-08 Page 9 other local agencies that will assist them in the same level as what they are offering to Evanston residents. However, in an emergency case, they will try and assist the client. Aid. Hansen asked what is the catalyst for the help desk at the downtown court house. Ms. Lucia explained that they offer expungement assistance to qualifying clients and find their help desk is very helpful and convenient for the large amount of foot traffic that comes through the court house downtown. AId. Hansen asked if they expect the same response at the Skokie court house. Ms. Lucia answered yes and it will also give them a change to work with more Evanston clients. Aid. Hansen questioned the potential of duplication of services and suggested that there is a need to do some homework to see if other agencies are already doing/offering the same expungement services. She asked if this program works with the Evanston Police Youth Program. Ms. Lucia replied that they do work directly with the Evanston Police Department. Also, from her knowledge, the Evanston Community Defender's Off -ice offers more for the citizens of Evanston than any other community or agency within this immediate area. Chair Rainey asked what trends they are seeing among their clients. Ms. Lucia responded the majority of cases involve aggravated battery, some sexual behavior issues; with numerous lesser cases involving car thefts and burglaries, violation of probation, etc. She noted that most of their clients are under 17 years of age. Sonic clients whose income is above 50% of area median may be able to pay a percentage of the cost of services. Chair Rainey asked if they do a means testing for their clients. Ms. Lucia said they do a full survey of each client per their court reporting requirements as well as follow the CDBG guidelines for income. Chair Rainey asked what other outside funding they are receiving. Ms. Lucia responded that they receive funding from several private entities including the Illinois Bar Association. Chair Rainey supports this program because their service is very valuable to many citizens that otherwise would not be able to obtain legal help. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked what their involvement/interaction is with the parents of minor clients. Ms. Lucia responded that in many cases services are initiated when the parents come to their office because they are at their wits end and have no where else to turn. Mr. Richmond questioned if there is follow up with clients to check on their progress; or do they refer for follow up services. Nis. Lucia replied that that at present they do not have a complete follow up procedure in place but would like to do so in the near future as permitted based on staff. Unfortunately in many cases the client follows up by coming back for additional assistance; this is why the social work services component is essential. Ald. Bernstein asked what their relationship is with Y.O.U. Nis. Lucia informed that they arc in the discussion stage of a potential merger to get to know what each agency offers. They plan to develop joint training programs and refer clients to each other. Aid. Bernstein remarked that he is impressed with the growth of this agency. Ms. Lucia gave CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 10 much of the credit to her board members who have put in a lot of time and energy in their program who in turn, gave her credit for "bringing a breath of fresh air' to their agency. Legal Assistance Foundation of Metro. Chicogo/Evanston Legal Services Contact Info: Mr. Bill Kolen Address: 828 Davis Street, Suite #201, Evanston, 312-347-8381, Evanston. #847-475- 3703 Amount Reuested: $12,000 Summarv: Mr. Kolen said that the Legal Assistance Foundation offers free legal services for low income and senior citizens. They currently have 6 offices throughout the Cook County area with the office in Evanston serving the north and northwest suburbs. The legal assistance their agency offers varies from domestic violence, foreclosure issues, legal debt issues and bankruptcy, and assistance to tenants in subsidized housing matters. He continued that they provide high quality legal advice, counsel clients regarding their rights, assist with any documentation needed for hearing, and also represent clients at administrative hearings and in State and Federal Courts. Mr. Kolen noted that there has been a rise in clients due to the recession and he foresees the need to provide more services in the near future due to the everyday challenges many people are facing during this period. The requested CDBG funds will help continue offering these services in which they have assisted over 500 families here in Evanston. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked at what stage clients come to them for legal assistance with mortgage foreclosures, Mr. Kolen responded that within the past year, over 30 Evanston residents have come to them for legal assistance regarding foreclosure, most due to predatory lending situations. He acknowledged that in some cases the client is not able to retain their home: however they will provide legal counseling and assistance to the client about the options available for proceeding. Ideally, they provide every legal avenue possible to avoid foreclosure proceedings to save their ownership and guide clients to avoid recurrence of their situation. Chair Rainey recalled a report that was distributed from the City Housing Planner regarding other agencies providing foreclosure counseling, specifically the Interfaith Housing agency. She suggested that the two agencies work together in providing referrals to each other. Mr. Kolen agreed. Chair Rainey questioned the assistance to subsidized housing clients and what this agency does to assist them. Mr. Kolen responded that they work with tenants/clients living in CHA housing or who receive housing vouchers with eviction issues, inspections and other housing issues. He said tenants in these situations are usually unable to obtain decent legal assistance to represent their cases and are left vulnerable. Chair Rainey made a suggestion that this agency send representatives to attend the 5`" Ward monthly meeting, which meets this Thursday at Fleetwood ]ourdain Center, because the Ward alderman Holmes has invited CHA representatives to attend CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 11 their meetings And it would be advantageous for many residents to also know that legal help is available. Mr. Kolen thanked her for that reference Aid. Jcan-Baptiste reiterated that when faced with foreclosure, many homeowners arc unaware of their rights and how to proceed. He suggested the need for more advertising of LAI='s services and involvement with the community to make aware of the availability for legal assistance for those in need. Mr. Kolen assured that they «-ill make every effort to do this. Aid. Jean -Baptiste questioned what assistance this agency is offering for debt purchase cases. Mr. Kolen explained that they provide legal assistance to clients whose debt was purchased in a similar manner as to homeowners dealing %%ith foreclosure. He reiterated that this is why they are asking for additional funding to continue their services. North Share Senior Center/EWSS/Evanston Senior Services Contact Info: Jordan Luhr, its. Liz Gordon Address: 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, 60093 and 840 Dodge Avenue, Evanston, 60202, 847-724-6027 Amount Reauested: S30,000 Summary: Mr. Luhr gave an overview of their program with the main purpose of helping Evanston seniors living at the low or moderate income levels to remain independent for as long as possible. Their agency's task is make possible for these independent senior citizens to obtain basic necessities and medical care, make arrangements for homemaker help and assistance, obtain government benefits, assist with managing their money, etc. He noted that services arc prioritized by immediate need, however their main objective is to provide services so all seniors are able to maintain their quality of life and continue living in and contributing to their community. Mr. Luhr noted that the CDBG funds requested will aid in the continued and growing assistance to the Evanston senior citizen population, especially the immigrant population of seniors that are in need of assistance in their eider years to live productively in this community. He noted that to his knowledge, they arc the only organization in this area that provides such services to the immigrant senior citizen population: therefore their agency is not duplicating services offered by others in the Northshore. Questions and Comments: Chair Rainey commended this agenc%'s «ork and supports their efforts. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for a percentage breakdown of the ethnic groups they have assisted. Ms. Gordon responded that most recently, they have experienced a majority influx in Hispanic and Polish senior immigrants that have needed their assistance. Meals at Homc/Home Delivered Meals for Seniors & Disabled Contact info: Patricia Carlson IMEW CD Committee Mfg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 12 Address: P.O. Box 279, mealsathomc c sbcaiobal.net Amount Requested: $10,000 Wilmette, 11, 847-251-6827, email: Summary: Ms. Carlson first thanked the Committee for all their past support for funding. She welcomed any volunteers to come forward by contacting their agency. Ms. Carlson informed the Committee and the public that Meals at Home is celebrating its 40'h anniversary of service, which began on October 14, 1969. They havc delivered food to the homes of seniors and other adults with disabilities over these 40 years. Their clients' needs for services vary from circumstances such as diabetes, mental illness including dementia or heart disease. Other clients are recovering from surgery or chemotherapy. Ms. Carlson noted that in the last year, 62% of their clients were referred to Meals At Home by social workers, doctors, or medical professionals, agencies or local governments. Their service area covers Evanston, Wilmette, Winnctka, Kenilworth, cast Glenview and east Northfield. In the last 5 years; approximately 75% of their clients live in Evanston and they have delivered approximately 181,000 meals via 35 routes. She noted that some clients receive food 6 days per week; many others are on a 5-day schedule. Ms. Carlson stated that the requested CDBG funds would help pay for food for their low income Evanston clients where meals are delivered by volunteers at lunch time Monday through Saturday, including holidays. She described a typical meal and noted that they accommodate general diets and special diets such as cardiac, diabetic, mechanical chopped, gastric reflex, renal, etc. Ms. Carlson said most of their meals are prepared the kitchens of Evanston and St. Francis Hospitals; also the kitchen of Three Crowns Park prepares approximately 5% of their meals and Dilly's Cafe donates 8 meals clients on Thursdays. She noted that survey data collected from their clients showed highest satisfaction with the volunteer staff delivering the meals and satisfactory scores for the quality of meals delivered. Ms. Carlson stated the main request for CDBG funds is to cover the ever rising cost of food. St. Francis Hospital has raised their cost for preparing meals; Evanston Hospital has informed them that their costs will be going up in cost by 9% within the next year. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey stated her support for this program and the need for such services to an ever growing senior population in the Evanston community. Mr. Richmond took this opportunity to acknowledge the recent death of a young Evanston resident, Mr. Kevin Foster, which made national news because of his untimely death due to renal failure. He too supports this agency's efforts. Music Institute of Chicaeo/Takine, Music to Seniors Contact Info: Chuck Hawes, Director of the New Horizons Band CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 13 Address: 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, 847-905-1500 Amount Reuuested: S3,000 Summarv: Mr. Hawes explained that the New Horizons Band is a large concert band based on the public school band model except that it is designed for adults; taking into consideration the learning styles and interest of adults and their previous music experience. He noted that some of their member have been musicians in the past but have not played their instruments for a number of years. He said that they have a number of ensembles of players in the larger concert band that give approximately 30 concerts throughout the year at venues that can't accommodate the concert band. Performances are held at many nursing homes, senior residences and adult day care centers and health care facilities throughout the community. Last year, they performed 5 of their concerts at Evanston senior facilities and the grant requested will enable them to provide more concerts for the Evanston senior community. Mr. Hawes noted that there is a growing body of medical research which discusses the benefits that accrue from both performing music and listening to it. He said that music reaches portions of the brain that are unique, and different from the areas for language and other forms of input. Performing in a musical ensemble is a cooperative, non-competitive activity that is mentally and physically stimulating and is a valuable component as you get older that keeps the brain functioning. He pointed out that when seniors go back to playing a musical instrument that they played in the past, start playing an instrument at the beginner level, or listen to big band music from their past, it is a very stimulating experience. The experience takes them back to a different time and era that relates to good memories for them. Ile noted that this nostalgic music experience has had a positive impact on many Alzheimer patients. Mr. Hawes concluded that this program is equally fun and a rewarding experience for those in the band as it is for their senior audience members. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked if new Horizons Band has played at the Council for Jewish Elderly Center on Howard Street that has a wonderful day care program for Alzheimer patients. She suggested they consider giving a band performance there in the future. Mr. Hawes said that he does not recall if they have performed there but that they will include them in their upcoming schedule of performances, if they so desire. Chair Rainey mentioned that she did see from their list of performances that they did visit the Dobson Home which is in her ward and received a ven, positive reaction from their residents. She commended this program and noted that, unlike most funding requests that have to do with relieving pain and suffering, this brings enjoyment and enrichment. 111. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENTS Ms. Mary Friedl, 1313 Cleveland. Evanston Ms. Friedl quoted from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973: CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of 10-14-08 Page 14 "No otherwise qualified individual with disabilities in the United States..... shall, solely by reason of disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance or under any program or activities conducted by the Executive agency." Ms. Friedl noted that the City of Evanston signed a Voluntary Compliance Agreement with HUD earlier this year to ensure accessibility of CDBG-funded programs and projects. It is in the spirit of that Voluntary Compliance Agreement she offered comments on three applications for CDBG funds from: Connections for the Homeless Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago & N.W. Indiana. and YWCA of Evanston/North Shore. Ms. Fricdl's comments are attached. Committee members acknowledged the importance of assuring accessibility to programs and facilities funded with CDBG and thanked Ms. Fried[ for her advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities and her input on the CDBG applications. 1V. ADJOURNMENT The Committee members commended Ms. Flax on the helpfulness of input . on applications provided with their application notebooks. Application reviews for Connections for the Homeless and the YWCA Evanston/North Shore will be rescheduled on October 28a'. The meeting was adjourned at 10:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlee Written copy of input from Mary Friedl provided at 10/14/08 CD Meeting Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1473 provides as follows: "No otherwise qualified individual with disabilities in the United States ... shall, solely by reason of disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance or under any program or activities conducted by the Executive agency.".. This paragraph from the Rehabilitation Act is why the City of Evanston was asked by The Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to sign a Voluntary Compliance Agreement earlier this year. It is in the spirit of that Voluntary Compliance Agreement that I offer my comments about three of your perspective subrecipients tonight. #1 Connections for the Homeless I quote from page 2 of Connectionsof the Homeless CDBG application, "Connections is the only agency in Evanston devoted entirely to the prevention and amelioration of homelessness." Connections for the Homeless offers services to single adult homeless individuals. It consists of three parts. 1. Entry Point is an outreach and drop in program. "It allows us to do case management." (page 2.) "In addition to hooking them up with services, securing IDs and applying for benefits, we help them find shelter or housing, and provide fare cards to employment opportunities." "Four mornings a week we also offer a drop -in center where clients can come in to use showers, wash their clothes, pick up new clothing and food, talk with counselors, or meet with our nurse." (page 3.) 2. Hilda's Place is an overnight shelter. At 7 p.m. until 7 a.m. Hilda's Place is open and provides a place to sleep for 36 people for an average of b months. "(C)Iients receive a hot meal, and... breakfast. Bag lunches... to take with them." They are able to use the showers and laundry. Goals that are set at Entry Point and the drop in center have more success (than just Entry Point) in this intensive environment. 3. Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) is for people with permanent disabilities and the history of homeless. "(0)ver time it is expected that individuals will become increasingly self sufficient. According to the Connections application the only service available to people with mobility impairments (and some others with disabilities) of the above array is the outreach part of Entry Point which would be moved from Entry Point to Burger King (Connections for the Homeless's choice of alternate location.) . I would think that a job search would be difficult without a shower or a place to do laundry Written copy of input from Mary Friedl provided at 10/14/08 CD Meeting though. Another service that could be made available to people with mobility impairments is the one possible opening a year (This figure is mentioned in Connections application.) in the Permanent Supportive Housing Program by Connections "simply arrang(ing) for a unit that was accessible for such individuals." On pages 5 of the Connections CDBG application is the question "Orgunizatlons receiving CDBG funds through the City of Evanston must have a written plan to address accessibility issues. Summarize the components of your plan below." Connections response is to list all the reasons why their services are not available to people who use mobility devices and people with other disabilities. Connections for the Homeless mentions that they have scheduled for some time in the future for discussions about accessibility issues. No where in their application Is there a written plat, or transition plan. They appeared to be at this stage where they are just beginning to understand that these laws apply to them and they are planning to get together to tall: about it. On page 1 of their CDBG application Connections for the Homeless lists the office of Connections for the Homeless at 2010 Dewey. This is the Family Focus building. People with mobility impairments are refused the right to apply for employment in this building. Qualified people with mobility impairments will not be hired to work in their office because of their disability. This is a violation of Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Act'. HUD uses Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to determine whether a prospective subrecipient can be considered for a CDBG grant. From 1973 until 2008 is 35 years' Even the Americans with Disabilities Act celebrated its 18th year this last July. I; think this is plenty of time for Connections for the Homeless to have figured out how they can make their services offered to other Evanston homeless people COMPLETELY accessible to all Evanstonians. Anything less is discriminatory and unlawful. I do not think that you should offer a CDBG grant to Connections for the Homeless. The representative of HUD that Sarah Flax has been talking to for the past two years has already pointed out to me that Connections for the Homeless is in violation of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act. He has also expressed his concerns about people with disabilities act being excluded from services Connections for the Homeless. 04 Girl Scouts One venue for the Fit To Be Me! program is Family Focus. The Family Focus building is not accessible. The Girl Scouts need to answer the question concerning their compliance with ADA as "No" and answer questions about their ADA 2 :! Written copy of input from Mary Friedl provided at 10/14/08 CD Meeting complaint process. Any little girl who otherwise qualifies, has a mobility impairment and wants to receive this service has that right. if she does not attend one of the schools listed in the Girl Scouts CDBG application but resides close to Family Focus it is an issue. If she does attend one of these schools and this program Is offered as an afterschool activity accessibility may still be an issue. One of the most pressing issues for Evanstonians with mobility impairments is the lack of local transportation. How will this young girl get from her home to another venue and back home especially if her low income family is unable to purchase a lift equipped van? She may take a special lift equipped bus to and from school. If she stays after school for the Fit to Be Me! program, how will she get home? The Girl Scouts need to make a plan that encompasses transportation problems for the mobility impaired student. #11 YWCA Evanston/North Shore "Our Domestic Violence Services Program ....is the only comprehensive residential domestic violence program serving the northeast metropolitan Chicago area." (page 2 of 2008 CDBG application) Did the YWCA make their transitional housing wheelchair accessible within the last year? If the answer is yes, let us all rejoice! You don't have to read any further. If not they should change their answer to the question whether your program is accessible on the CDBG application to NO! And they can answer the rest of the questions concerning compliance with ADA. A few years ago at a CDBG meeting I asked a presenter from the YWCA about accessibility for their transitional housing, a program for which the YWCA rents apartments. She told me that they would rent a wheelchair accessible apartment in the future when their contract obligations allowed. Last year when I asked Alderman Hansen to request a list of "accessible housing options" that the YWCA said they provide "people with mobility impairments" I received the attached e-mail. 1 did not get a list of "accessible housing options" as I requested. If the transitional housing is not yet ADA compliant what is the date that their "contract obligation" will allow compliance? Where is the YWCA's transitional plan for ADA compliance? I do not think that "referring them (the mobility impaired) to organizations that had accessible housing" is an acceptable accommodation. Perhaps during a period of time right after ADA passed as part of a written "transitional plan" an entity could refer a person with a mobility impairment to another organization. But the goal of a "transitional plan" is that Title II entity's own services become accessible. In feel the time for transitional planning is over. It Is time for compliance! 3 Written copy of input from Mary Friedl provided at 10/14/08 CD Mceting Please remember Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 has been in effect 35 years and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 has been in effect for 18 years. I believe the time is now for the tenets of Section 504 to be upheld. The YWCA needs to change the application to read that they are not ADA compliance. They need to answer the rest of the ADA compliance questions . I feel the most important question is when will this part of their program be ADA compliance. I would hope that this committee will not accept this sort of response. I don't think we need to ask the YWCA where their facility is located. Of course they feel they need to keep the location under wraps. I would appreciate if you would request the YWCA to supply you with a list of "accessible housing options" to which they would refer a client with a mobility impairment.. I would like to get in touch with these "accessible housing options" to see if they are able to accommodate someone in a wheelchair. I do think that the YWCA should be willing to describe in detail what their transitional housing is used for and how they would handle the case of a woman in a wheelchair who needed those same services. Let's assume their transitional program has space available. Written transition plans should be accepted by your committee only if the transition plan period is one or two years and the subrecipient is new. Enough time has elapsed now to expect compliance, not the promise of compliance. I do not think this committee should offer the YWCA's Domestic Violence Services Program a CDBG Grant this year. 4 MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: APPROVED HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, October 21, 2008 Evanston Civic Center 7:00 p.m. — City Council Chambers Aid. Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid.Rainey, Crawford Richmond Sarah Flax, Jackie Brownlee PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF 0110RUM Chair Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:13 p.m., a quorum being present. The Committee members and staff introduced themselves. Chair Rainey explained the order of procedure for the applicants to fully intrortyce themselves by giving their name(s), agency or program and a brief summary of their program and what the requested funding will support. 11. 2009/10 CDBG PROGRAM — REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS Interfaith Action of Evanston/Job Counseline Program Contact Info: Ms. Susan Murphy Address: P.O. Box 1414, Evanston 6020.1(where any donations can be sent), 847-869-0370, email: ia.crlrinterfaithactionofevanston.ort; Amount Renucsted: $5,000 Summary: Nis. Niurphy first informed that their organization is primarily operated by volunteers therefore she said there is a need for more volunteers and welcomed anyone who would be interested in joining their agency. She explained that the Job Counseling Program has existed for 15 years and work directly with Connections for the Homeless. Their Hospitality Center for the Homeless is open from 7-11 a.m. every morning. Their clients are from either Hilda's Place or Entry Point and when a case worker determines a client is ready to work, they are referred to interfaith's job counselors. Ms. Murphy said that they currently have two job counselors; each works 5 hours per week that they receive payment for and usually work more hours on a volunteer basis. In addition to job counseling, Interfaith provides for transportation to and from job interviews and assists with resumes. They work closely with the employment office in Evanston and the National Student Partnership. Their organization also helps their clients obtain drivers licenses because many jobs now require it. They also enroll clients in specific training such as computer classes and other vocational classes. Ms. Murphy cited several success stories of clients that have received assistance from their job counseling. She noted that just recently two clients were hired at a new store in the Dempster/Dodge shopping center; another was hired at a local retirement home in accounting; two clients are pursuing positions in home health that will also provide housing; and one client hired at an Evanston parking facility almost a year ago is still employed and has obtained his own apartment. Ms. Murphy noted that these are some of their success stories, however they do experience their share of not so successful outcomes. It is very hard in today's society and economic struggles to secure jobs. She said there arc more and more people every day that are becoming unemployed for various reasons because of the economy. She pointed out that when she first started working with this program I l years ago, they had an average of 15 people per day coming to the Hospitality Center versus today where they average around 32 people per day. Ms. Murphy stated that due to this increase in clients, they would like to add more hours to their jab counseling and the requested CDBG funds would help assist that need. Questions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked if their agency is finding that they are getting more clients referred from Hilda's Place that are actually employable due to current economic recession. Ms. Murphy responded that they are definitely experiencing an increase in more middle class workers who have been downsized and experienced change in their financial situations; they are seeing more middle-aged white males versus the previous norm of more African -American males. She noted that it can be hard to place some from this socio-economic background because people think they are over- qualified. However, all clients want employment and steady pay. Chair Rainey commended all the work this agency does which the Committee members seconded. The Youth Job Center of Evanston. Inc./Youth Emnlovment Initiative Contact Info: Ms. Sasella Smith, Executive Director Address: 1114 Church Street, Evanston, 847-864-5627, email: www.vouthiobccnter.org Amount Reauested: $65,000 Summary: Ms. Smith thanked the CDBG Committee for their time and attention that they give to this process and for being one of their major sources of support over the past years. She brought attention to the fact that their organization is celebrating 25 years of service this year; they have been in existence since 1983 and have provided job placement and youth employment services which without the support of CDBG funding, would not have been possible. She noted that the Youth Job Center's goal from the: onset was to provide at -risk youth with support and job placement that would not exist without them. Their mission clearly articulates who they are and what their purpose is: to provide youth, ages 14-25, for success in the workplace. Their organization provides job readiness, placement, and employment support in partnership with employers. Ms. Smith specified that not only do they help young people find employment, they prepare these young individuals for success in life. Ms. Smith acknow-lcdged and introduced the staff and board in attendance: Ms. Kim Hoopingarner, Development Director, Ms. Molly Molind, Out -of -School Youth Coordinator, Jim Kaufman, Hoard President, Ms. Dana Worthsbergcr, Career Counselor for the Out -of -School Youth Program, Ms. Gerry Sizemore, Board Member, Mr. Tom I lazclett, Board Member, Mr. John Kennedy, long term Board Member, Pamela McCall, ETHS Outpost Coordinator, Ms. Sherri Levovich, Ms. Ann Jcnnett, Founder of the Organization and Board Member, Ms. Crystal ,tiialone, Out -placement Coordinator, Evanstonian and former youth client with the organization; Dr. King. his. Smith acknowledged they all represent and stand behind the Youth Job Center of Evanston and support and understand the importance of this funding to continue the work and mission of their agency. Ms. Smith noted the following: • Their agency's goals arc focused and guided by their strategic plan which was adopted in 2006. Many of the tangible results and outcomes arc in direct alignment with the City of Evanston's strategic plan — goals #3 and # 12. • Their agency conducted 58 community outreach presentations, both instructional and informational: • Sponsored a 3-part series that covered topics including ex -offenders in employment, careers and the trades, youth and employment; • They hosted an employer appreciation breakfast; • They held two community job fairs, each attended by approximately 500 people; • They conducted a successful 8-week learn -to -earn program at ETHS for 14-15 year olds in which 33 students participated; 32 completed the program and were placed in jobs; • Provided 30 job opportunities for summer tutors in partnership with District #65; • They served approximately 1,218 young people and placed 445 of these young people in jobs. Although this amount may seem small, it is significant in view of the Department of Labor's statistics in July, 2008 where 2.8 million more youth were unemployed versus in the same month in 1992; • They continue to diversify their funding and finished the fiscal year with a positive balance, which has not been done in a very long time; • Their organization has received front page coverage on the Chicago Tribune that highlighted their satellite office at ETHS. Ms. Smith noted that from this list. their entire staff and board members are very proud of the accomplishments that their agency has received over their years in existence and continue to raise public awareness through a wide variety of marketing and community outreach efforts and communication strategies. She mentioned their continued close work relationship with Mr. Sol Anderson and Mr. Cam Herth at the City of Evanston. Also they continue to try and focus and work more collaboratively and collectively with other community -based organizations because they realize the importance of leveraging limited resources. Ms. Smith stated that it is their hope that they will continue to strengthen the way that they track and measure outcomes and they are exploring client management systems that allow them to better quantify outcomes. Ms. Smith concluded by commending the entire staff on their hard work and diligence in quality work to continue and advance their efforts. Questions and Comments: Ms. Burrus thanked the entire staff and board representatives of the Youth Job Center for supplying amazing information about their work, quantitative data and qualitative input as well, which is very helpful in giving a full representation of the program and how the CDBG funding request will assist their continued accomplishments. She expressed her appreciation for this type of presentation and commended this organization for their complete application. Chair Rainey stated that she is very impressed with the stability of this program from their beginning and fully supports their efforts. She asked about the 22% of their clients that arc single parents. Ms. Smith responded that their client base ranges in ages from 14-25 and 22% of those are single young mothers with children. They also see a large majority of youth in that age group who have to work to support their household. Chair Rainey stated that she is also impressed that this organization has been able to reduce their CDBG reliance to 20% of their total budget. She finds this fact exceptional and also very commendable. Evanston Community Development Cornoration/Business Development & Economic Onvortunity Contact Info: Mr. Bill Smith, Board Member (on behalf of Bill Logan) Address: P.O. Box 6599, Evanston 60204, 847-475-4502 Amount Reouested: $92,180 Summarv: Mr. Smith spoke on behalf of the ECDC staff and board members when he stated that they are all very passionate in what they do and their involvement with the Westside business development. He said there is a definite need for more business development in this community and the members of ECDC spend a lot of time and effort trying to achieve their objectives, He acknowledged several board members present this evening, Mr. John Fuller, Ron Fleckman, Keith Banks, and Aid. Delores Holmes who has been a supporter for many years to the ECDC. Mr. Smith said that ECDC maintains a small staff including a part-time Executive Director, Full-time Program Manager, Ms. Precious Wright who is also in attendance, and a part-time Market Manager. For additional professional support, ECDC uses many volunteers as instructors, one-on-one mentors, and technical assistance providers. He said ECDC relies heavily on individual gifts, grants from foundations, corporations, and government resources to fund their operations. Mr. Smith made note that only 25% of ECDC resources come from CDBG. Mr. Smith explained their need for CDBG support. lie said the ECDC is the only entity working for the revitalization and economic developmental stability of the Westside. ECDC focuses their attention on three aspects of community revitalization: advocacy for affordable housing, business development, and workforce training. For this year's CDBG funding request is to support their business programming. Mr. Smith said that ECDC has developed an on -going partnership with both Northwestern University and its Kellogg School of Business. From a study done by Kellogg, it revealed a significant undcrcapitalization of business and lack of access to traditional financing for the West side. In addition, the study found a limited awareness and access to administrative and managerial support. Another study was organized by ECDC and conducted by Leadership Evanston which revealed although the Westside was the traditional home to many minority -owned businesses and professional, the number of such businesses has steadily been decreasing over the past forty years. He noted that the research identified limited ability for Westsidc businesses to attract resources. These studies and research are the basis for expanding ECDC's business programming component. ECDC has developed programming to support these efforts in five areas: 1. Technical Assistance -- to conduct community research to provide assistance to their residents, 2. Business Mentorine — to match West side entrepreneurs and business owners with experienced business professionals, 3. Entrepreneurship Training to work with the Small Business Development Center, 4. Church Dodue Merchant Association (CDMA) and West End Market (WEM) to assist these two entities to increase business, and 5. Business Grant Fund to assist their pilot program for small grants for West side businesses. Mr. Smith gave several examples of ECDC's impact on the Westsidc, specifically pointing out their involvement as a key supporter in the establishment of a Tax Increment Financing district for this area. ECDC has facilitated a partnership between a prime developer, Cyrus Homes, Inc. and Community Builders of Evanston LLC to develop a 40 unit townhome development which created 10 new jobs in the building trade for Westside residents. He said their organization is extremely proud of their support and involvement in the development of BooCoo at Church and Dodge, which not only created a dramatic visual change to that area but has also added a positive environment for the community by allowing space that provides for music and dance classes, a recording studio, computer center and cafd, as well as a community meeting space. He noted ECDC supported the development with grant applications and technical assistance for this business which also created 1 I new jobs for the residents of the Westside. He stressed ECDC's support and continued assistance for BooCoo, which they are also moving in the direction of sustainability. Mr. Smith introduced the new Executive Director of BooCoo in attendance, Ms. Debbie Mabic. Mr. Smith concluded with an overview of how the City will benefit in the involvement with ECDC's business programming for the enhancement of the Westside business advancement. He reiterated Aid. Rainey's previous advice to diversify their funding and not become dependent upon CDBG as a sole source of funding, which they have took this advice to heart and have leveraged those resources into a spectrum of funding from public, private and nonprofit sources. lie noted that their first award of CDBG funds represented 85% of their budget versus today where there CDBG funding request amounts to just 25% of the overall funding. Mr. Smith thanked the Committee/City for their investment in ECDC which has enabled their organization financially to do so much in providing critical services needed to ensure steady revitalization of the «'estside community. He said to continue these services, ECDC requires CDBG and the City's participation and investment. which their entire organization truly appreciates. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey raised several questions on the comments made regarding the creation of new jobs from the development of the business programming unit because she is not clear on how these jobs will be created and what method is planned to support the creation of these new jobs. Mr. Smith clarified that the new jobs proposed from the business programming unit will involve the need for more training of additional technical support and field trade workers to continue the promotion of the small business development for this area. He noted that the number of new jobs created from this business programming development is an estimate at this time. Mr. Richmond noticed some of the same workers he saw work on the development of the BooCoo site he also saw working on other projects with the Church/Dodge community. He noted that most of these workers were either not employed at all or were making wages by other means. Specifically, his point is the benefit in those individuals learning a respectable trade in construction work and contributing to the advancement of their own community. He commends the efforts of ECDC in promoting and creating new jobs by this method, which he supports the use of CDBG funds for continuance of that effort. Technolot,v Innovation Center/Evanston Business Ownership Initiative Contact Info: Charles Happ. Chairman of the Technology Information Center, representing the Board of Directors, Tim Lavengood, Board Member and Evanston resident, Nis. Mary Happ, Director, and Mr. T.J. Weber, Director of SBDC, George Brandon, client of the program, owner ofAll's Well Automotive on Chicago Avenue & Howard Address: 820 Davis Street, Suite # 101 and, 825 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, 847-864-0800, www.theincuhator.com, Amount Reouested: 5110,000 Summary: Mr. Happ said that he has been Chairman of TIC for three years; prior to that he was an elected official and has worked in the Evanston community for over 35 years. He noted that their organization is celebrating their 97" 3 year anniversary. The Technology Innovation Center is an incubator company helping to start up companies primarily in the Evanston area promoting small business innovation and growth. He said that they have grown to 48 companies and occupy over 30,000 square feet in two locations. Mr. Happ informed the Committee of their impressive list of companies that have branched off from their incubator company. He noted that their organization's primary function is about creating jabs and creating start up companies. He said they do this through the cooperative effort and affiliation of strategic networks, individual corporate sponsorships, local banks, university association to help young entrepreneurs to start up their businesses, etc. Mr. Haas stated their mission statement for the Evanston Business Ownership Initiative is simply "To provide guidance for business growth:' lie noted that their primary benefactors from private organizations have pledged to give a dollar -match for every dollar of CDBG grant money received with a pledge to allocate up to $60,000 in matching funds to help support the program of the TIC, the SBDC, and more importantly the Evanston Business Ownership Initiative (EBOI). He explained that the CDBG funds requested will allow them to allocate up to 10% or 55,000 to give individual grants to qualified CDBG and LMI companies to start their businesses. He clarified that the CDBG grant money will not be allocated from any CDBG money received from the City of Evanston or HUD, but rather from the "cash match" as described above. Mr. Happ listed the opportunities they offer to an individual looking; to start a business, including grant funding, and the free training and counseling program with an EBOI Counselor. Once the individual completes their program, they will receive a grant up to $500 to start their business to pay for the incorporation and licensing fees. After a period of time and status updates which meet their criteria, the client will receive additional funds to proceed to buy equipment and supplies for their business. Duestions and Comments: Chair Rainey questioned their stated proposal to create 40 new jobs from this program. Mr. Haas responded that this is an estimate and hopeful objective in the outcome of use of CDBG funding in combination with their other funding sources. However, the main objective is for the incubator company to have these funds available to assist new small business entrepreneurs to the Evanston community and have the available technical and administrative support to do so. Mr. Weber asked Mr. Brandon to inform the Committee of his experience with their organization and how the system works and has helped him to proceed with his business. Mr. Brandon addressed the Committee and explained his involvement from the beginning of how he was introduced to the company, how they assisted him from the start with proper training tools and financial support to open his business. From there, the TIC has assisted him with technical and necessary office supplies to start his business and continued counseling support to advance his business growth up to this point. Mr. Brandon backs this organization's efforts from experience and urges the Committee's consideration to support their funding request. Washington Elementary School PTA/Robert Crown — District 65 Plaveround Contact Info: Ms. Jenni Suvari, PTA Landscape Chair Address: 914 Ashland Avenue, Evanston, 847-556-7569, email: www.washinetonlandscaaenvahoo.com Amount Requested: $8,680 Summary: Ms. Suvari gave an overview of their proposal. Washington School PTA is seeking grant funds to plant 25 shade trees around the shared playground with Robert Crown Community Center. She explained the larger project is the planting of 37 trees around the Washington school campus. All the tree planting are part of an even larger effort by the PTA to re -landscape the entire school grounds. Ms. Suvari displayed a diagram of the Washington School and Robert Crown properties showing the location of all the tree plantings and proposed new landscaping. Ms. Suvari gave three reasons why she believes CDBG funds are appropriate for this project. First, is _ the reason of location and population served. The Washington school campus at Main and Ashland - touches two CDGB Target areas immediate adjacent to the property and the shade trees will benefit the entire neighborhood which includes portions of Wards #2, 94, and 49. She said the patrons of Robert Crown who actually go out use these playgrounds continuously include the Summer Food Service which gives sack lunches to 300-350+ children per day for 49 days each Summer. She pointed out that these children arc out there every day with literally no shade to sit under while they eat their lunches. Another group that would also benefit from the shade trees will be the Robert Crown pre-school program, the camp programs and the AYSO families that use the fields for soccer. Finally, the last group that the shade trees %%ould benefit would be the Washington students of which 54% are low - income, which hits a group that qualifies for CDBG funding. Ms. Suvari said the second reason she believes CDBG funds are appropriate for this project, is the alignment with Consolidated Plan goals. She pointed out that in Chapter 5 of the Consolidated Plan identifies specific housing and community development objectives that would be met with implementation of the shade tree project at the shared playground by revitalizing neighborhoods. Also in keeping with the Consolidated Plan goals, this shade tree project would go along with the infrastructure objective of the neighborhood beautification and streetscape enhancement. Lastly, this project would also go along with the public facilities objective of enhancing city facilities used for recreational activities. She mentioned several other objectives in Chapter Six of the Comprehensive Plan that this shade tree project would cover. Finally, his. Suvari stated the third reason she believes this project is appropriate for CDBG funding is that it exemplifies a collaborative effort and she believes this Committee supports collaboration. She followed with several examples of this project being a collaborative effort on the parts of parents/PTA members of Washington School, partnership with members of District 965, and staff from the City of Evanston's Parks, Forestry and Recreation. Oucstions and Comments: Chair Rainey and Ald. Bernstein complimented this project and commended the collaborative efforts of all the parties involved to get this done. Brummel Park Neighbors/Community Buildina Sunnort Contact Info: Ms. Michele Hayes, Chair, Gary Brooks, President of Neighborhood Watch Address: 712 Dobson, St., Evanston, 847-869-7086, ►,*,%vw.brummeloarkneiehbors.com Summarv: Ms. Hayes said that their organization's goal is to improve the quality of life in Brummel Park, which is a neighborhood in southeast Evanston that boarders Chicago. This neighborhood group has actually been active for over 30 years. They recently expanded to include a neighborhood watch which has been active for several years. She said their steering committee meets 4 times per year, since she has chaired over the past 7 years and the neighborhood watch meets twice a month from May to October in addition to routine weekly patrols. Ms. Hayes noted that Brummel Park Neighbors offers 5 community -building events per year including a youth job forum in collaboration with the Youth Job Center. The other events include Trash Buster's Day, Neighborhood Spring Carnival, National Night Out Picnic and a Back -To -School Services Fair. They communicate with the residents in their neighborhood via flyers, an cmail list and their websitc. Mr. Brooks talked about the efforts of the neighborhood watch program. fle thanked representatives from Ridgeville Park District and Hands Across Howard in attendance this evening with whom they work on all their events. He noted that for the past couple of years, Neighborhood Watch members have worked with the Evanston Police Department to help provide assistance in preventing crime in their area. He said they have many success stories that have come out of this collaborative effort including several drug busts. He hosts the Brummel Park Neighbors website and to this date they have received over 20,000 hits and still counting. He informed that the Evanston Police host an event which was videotaped and they put on their website about gang awareness. Mr. Brooks informed that one of the functions of the Neighborhood Watch is to conduct random weekly patrols throughout the neighborhood. They wear special t-shirts and vests, which are being worn by their members this evening, carry flashlights and cell phones to stay in communication with each other and to call the police in case of emergency. He said they do a Halloween walk where they reach out to all the businesses on Howard Street and surrounding area. During this walk, they communicate by radio with a home base located at Ms. Hayes home (they obtained an (:CC radio license in order to do this legally). Mr. Brooks noted that one of his job functions as president is to go through the crime reports for their area. When they first started the crime reports for their area were at least 3 pages long, however this year the report was minimal and less than l page long; sometimes down to zero incidents reported. He thanked the Committee for their consideration of their request for funding. Questions and Comments: Ms. Burrus asked Ms. FIax about eligibility for funding. Ms. Flax responded that she has talked to Ms. Hayes on specific items that can be HUD funded. She noted that one of the real challenges is that they do not stray into areas that are questionable under HUD guidelines. For instance, when you have events, CBBG funds can not be used to purchase food or entertainment items. She assured that she will work with Ms. Hayes on the specifics. Mr. Brooks stated that their members have always volunteered and used their own funds to support their events; however it is becoming increasingly difficult. Chair Rainey said this group is from her ward and she is very fond of this organization and what they do. She said they have contributed to a decrease in some of the on -going criminal behavior in their neighborhood, for instance the egg throwing wars during Halloween. This egg -throwing incident caused a lot of damage to many businesses and residences throughout the area. Members of the group went personally to every business in the area that sold eggs and asked them not to sell any eggs two weeks prior to Halloween. Only one business on Howard Street did not cooperate. This year, that particular business did cooperate full-heartedly. Chair Rainey stated that their neighborhood takes this group very seriously. Aid. Hansen asked about their Back -to -School Services Fair and if they coordinate this fair with any of the youth job services and groups. Ms. Hayes responded that one of their main focuses with their events is to have an interaction between park staff volunteers and parents to address issues of concern for the children in the park and how to work together to make a safer environment in this neighborhood. She also noted that many of the parents in this area are low income so they provide school supplies and other communication support for these families including information on the youth job agencies, etc. Over The Rainbow Association/Hill Arboretum Anartments Rehabilitation Contact Info: Eric Hoffman, Executive Director, Leo Kerwin, resident of Over the Rainbow and Chairman of the Board, Tracy Reeder, V.P. of Marketing & Development Address: 2040 Brown Avenue, Evanston, 847-328-6633. a-%v%v.otrassn.com Amount Requested: 5165,000 Summarv: Mr. Hoffman thanked the Committee for all their support over the years. He noted that their first request for funding was for $14,000 back in 1994 for their business center, which is still functioning and serving their tenants. He noted the Hill Arboretum building is the old Community Hospital. The second request for funding was back in 1998 for a security system which is still functioning. He said that Chief Berkowsky advised them to install a heat activated fire protection system which they did and it was very expensive; this was back in 1999-2000. In 2003, they replaced the complete roof. Mr. Hoffman noted that at first the Association did receive almost 100% HUD funding in their beginning years: however they have gradually started to leverage their funding. He informed that over the last couple of years their organization has been very busy in opening several other facilities and the Hill Arboretum has become a model for their new housing. They have been under an ambitious 5-year plan to develop 5 new facilities which Mr. Kerwin can elaborate on further. Mr. Kerwin gave a brief overview of the projects underway for in the Over The Rainbow Association. He noted that their request for funds is to improve the current building at 2040 Brown with the rehabilitation necessary to function today since the structure was built in 1951. These necessary improvements include updated plumbing, electrical and overall structural needs. He said the building has experienced day-to-day wear and tear from the wheelchair use, for example, the flooring which they would like to fix so that the wheelchair accessibility is smoother and sturdier. Many of the apartments flooring from room to room has become uneven over the years. Also this unevenness has affected the plumbing underneath the flooring so the proper support is needed. He said there is a need for kitchen and heating upgrades as well. He noted the estimated remodel cost per unit is approximately S7,000. The total need assessment is approximately S400,000 and they are requesting S165,000 of HUD funds to support their total rehabilitation funding need. Mr. Kerwin informed the Committee of the importance to know that Over The Rainbow employs over 30 people who assist the residents in this building and their help is outstanding and essential in aiding the needs of their tenants. Mr. Kerwin concluded by informing the Committee and the public of their December 13'h fundraising concert at Pick Staiger Auditorium at 6:30 p.m. He opened an invitation to attend this concert in support of their organization. Also, he welcomed any visits to their building, either planned or unannounced, to tour their facilities and see how they operate and how the residents live and function within their units. He noted that the waiting list has tripled since their existence with so many individuals with disabilities wanting to live in their building. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey expressed her interest in visiting the facility and observing the living quarters and updated kitchens. Mr. Richmond said that he lives within walking distance from the building and regrets that he has not been over to visit and tour the facilities since they opened. He vowed to take Mr. Kerwin's invitation and visit the facilities in the near future. The entire Committee commended this Association and their continued work that they have accomplished. Interfaith Housing Center of Northern Suburbs/Homesharine Contact Info: Gail Schechter, Director, Jackie Grossman, Homesharing Coordinator Address: 620 Lincoln Avenue, Winnetka, 847-501-5762 Amount Reauestcd: S18,000 Summarv: Ms. Schechter stated that their annual budget for the Homcsharing program is just under S100,000 per year. They had 34 matches within the last fiscal year and currently are assisting 68 households at a cost of approximately $1,400 to provide permanent affordable housing. Mr. Grossman gave an update of the Evanston progress within their program. She thanked the Committee's ongoing support of their program. She has been the coordinator for the last 10 years and continues to enjoy the work she does by matching homeowners with an extra room for rent that can use the extra income with people who need affordable housing. She noted that this program is very sensitive to economics because it changes all the time. Currently with the economic crisis they are experiencing more middle -income households wanting to rent their extra bedrooms. She informed the Committee of several stories where their assistance has been successful in matching homes with available rooms for rent to individuals in need of type of rental situation. She noted that there has been an increase in retired people who thought they would be able to live on their investments but are in need of an extra income source and are willing to rent out extra rooms to stay in their homes. Ms. Grossman said the normal client is single, however they do occasionally help find housing for single mothers with one infant or toddler that can easily share one room. A single mother with an older child or multiple children becomes more difficult to find housing due to the obvious circumstances of the need for more room and possibility of added problems involved with these types of situations. Questions and Comments: Mr. Richmond questioned the level of background checks of the individuals needing housing and the percentage of unsuccessful incidents with placing people. Ms. Grossman responded that they do a full background check on their clients and she boosted on the success level of placing individuals in the housing being offered. She assured that that they have always been very careful in their placement efforts and personally takes responsibility and credit for the success in her choices. There have been very minimal complaints from the supporting households against their clients with the typical problems involving small issues such as expectations of household chores, etc., but nothing as serious as theft and other similar cases. She takes pride in her record of placing their clients in households that tit both parties' needs and strongly feels that her personal intuition has been a part of this success. The Committee commends the efforts of this program. McGaw YMCA/Residence Improvement Proiect Contact Info: Mr. Bill Gieger, Executive Director, John Mroczka, Residence Director Address: 1000 Grove Street, Evanston, 847475-7400 Amount Reauested: $20,150 Summarv: Mr. Gieger acknowledged Mr. John Mroczka, the residence director of their facility at 1000 Grove. He stated that the main purpose for their requested funding is to assist in the installation of 26 air-conditioning units in residence rooms located on the 3"t floor. He said that for over 75 years the McGaw YMCA's Residence program has been committed to providing decent and affordable housing for low-income men living in the Evanston community. Currently, they have 172 single occupancy rooms in which they maintain a 90% occupancy rate and offer their residents full membership to access their health and fitness facilities, recreational areas, the Chinnock Lounge which contains a library, and all other facilities offered at the center. He noted that the YMCA also offers to their residents several employment opportunities within their organization and the outside work force. Mr. Gieger described the individuals who occupy their facility at this time. They currently serve a diverse group of residents that range from senior citizens, homeless adults, mentally and physically disabled men. lie noted that their residents are in combination of long and short term assistance and they serve approximately 250-300 individuals each year. The majority of clients are within the extremely low to low income median range. The highest percentage age group is between the 5 1 -65 years of age. Ile noted that race percentage in use of their facilities with the majority being African American and further noted that 28% of their residents were within the homeless category when they came to them for housing assistance. Mr. Geiger concluded that the specific request for HUD funding this year will assist them in completing their Residence Air -Conditioning Project by installing a/c units in the remaining 26 rooms on the floor stated above within their residency facility. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked for clarification on the electricity line item. Mr. Geiger responded that the funding is not for the electricity itself, but to provide the necessary upgrade to the electrical system to support the a/c units. Wcissbourd-Holmes Familv Focus Center/Public Facilities Proiect Contact Info: Mr. Ken Limbed:, Executive Director of Family Focus, Ms. Dorothy Williams, Building Director, James Francque. Legal Representative, John Severson, Architect, Jim Hagy, Board Member Address: 2010 Dewey Avenue. Evanston, 847475-7570 Amount Reuested: S287,190 Summary: Mr. Limbeck first introduced those in attendance with him as listed above. He explained the purpose for their request of funding is for assistance in the cost to modify the building located at 2010 Dewey Avenue by installing a new elevator system servicing the basement up to the third floor. This elevator modification will provide needed multi -passenger service, ADA accessibility, and freight service to all floors. He turned the presentation over to Ms. Williams, Building Director, for an overview of all the programs ofTered through the Family Focus Center at this location. Ms. Williams informed the Committee that her connection with this building goes back quite some time from when she first attended school here as an adolescent at the time it was called Foster School. She then taught school here when it was renamed the Martin Luther King Lab School. She now has the privilege of becoming the Building Director and overseeing the entire operation of the facility. Ms. Williams noted that the Weissbourd-Holmes Center has been providing valuable community services for over 20 years. The building contains 10 separate nonprofit organizations that offer a range from after school programs, homeless programs, literacy initiatives, adult education classes, counseling sessions, and other conflict resolution services. family Focus in Evanston serves over 1500 children and adults through their services and programs ranging from the after school enrichment activities, mentoring programs for pregnant and parenting teens, foster family support, and several other extra- curricular programs and events. Ms. Williams noted that their center services a very diverse range of clients. She said out of the approximately 427 participants serviced in 2008 from low-income homes in Evanston, 80% were a African -American, 13% Hispanic or Latino, 4% Caucasian, 3% bi-racial; large majority of clients being mate. Ms. Williams said that the proposed new elevator service project will allow greater accessibility for all the tenants and programs within the building. The total cost of the project is $809,132.06. She informed that the Evanston Family Focus has been able to raise $140,000 and the requested CDBG funds of $287,190 would be directed solely towards the support of this project. In combination of these funds being committed, Family Focus would seek to acquire the remaining $381,942 in funding from other public and private sources. Questions and Comments: Chair Rainey noticed that there are no architect fees located in under the project budget. Mr. Limbeck responded that the architect is working pro-bono on this project as a non- profit venture. However, he reminded that they do rely on the public sector for a large amount of their funding. Mr. Richmond commended Dr. Williams on the great job she is doing with the building; the facilities are bright, beautiful and cheerful and has a very uplifting atmosphere. Ms. green requested that she would like to see a more detailed plan for obtaining the remaining funds. Ms. Burrus agreed because it is a very tough market at this time to raise such a large amount of funding; she is very concerned with the ability to obtain all the funds needed. CEDAfNeiehbors at Work. Inc. /Minor Renairs & Paintint, Contact Info: Patricia Vance, Executive Director Address: 1229 Emerson Street, Evanston, 847-328-5166 Amount Reauested: $161,670 Summarv: Ms. Vance thanked the Committee for all their past support. She summarized the purpose of their request for CDBG funding this year will be used to continue the Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance Program. This program provides services directly for the homeowner residing in their own home. Ali applicants must meet the HUD income guidelines and live within the CDBG Target Areas except for seniors that qualify can live anywhere within the City of Evanston limits. She said the program provides the labor and supplies for completion of minor repairs and interior painting up to a maximum of $500. NAW will supply the labor only on exterior painting for households eligible to receive up to $400 from the City of Evanston's Paint Program. Ms. Vance stated the priority of work falls in the following categories: 1) homes cited by Property Standards, 2) Senior citizens and disabled individuals, and 3) based on need, first come first served basis. .Questions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked what is categorized as a minor repair. Ms. Vance responded that minor repairs can range from changing a door, repairing stairs, gutters, banisters, etc. The work is prioritized by repairing lifelsafety issues and then visual deterioration problem. Mr. Richmond commented that he has visited several homes where work was being done by the staff at CEDAINAW and he was very impressed with their work and professionalism. The Committee commended the program. III. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Aid. Rainey asked staff for an update on remaining funds. Ms. Flax gave a brief summary of agencies with remaining funds, YMCA and Family Focus, and the status of why the funds are being held. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if [IUD has any stipulations on holding these funds. Ms. Flax assured that the City is in compliance with the HUD guidelines by withholding funds. Ms. Breen stated that applicants need to provide them with more detailed plans for development and also more detail on plans to secure any additional funds expected to complete a project. She said this is very important with the reality of the economic hardship with the larger financial institutions; therefore the smaller institutions are suffering even more. Comments from Mary Friedl. 1313 Cleveland Ms. Fried] pointed out that Family Focus still fails to comply with the HUD Accessibility requirements. She is amazed at their application they presented this evening and the sketchiness with development details and securing full funding to complete the project. She feels that until Family Focus completes this task, they should not qualify for additional funding. Shc added that they are also jeopardizing their State funds as well. She reiterated her issues with the YWCA and their not having at least one ADA accessible unit. She also reiterated her issues with Connections for the Homeless and their lack of ADA accessibility for Hilda's Place, which enables those homeless individuals to take advantage of this service. Ms. Friedl concluded that she feels the same requirements for more detailed information on development and securing complete funding that the Committee is asking for from Family Focus should also go for the YWCA and Connections for the Homeless. Alley Snecial Assistance Proaram Ms. Flax informed the Committee of an Evanston household of 5 with an income of less that $45,000 that has requested assistance to pay for their special alley assessment fee. The homeowner did not understand the application process and was dealing with personal health issues, therefore applied after the due date. The total assessment is $2,073.72. There is money in the fund for the assessment and staff recommends approval. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval, seconded by Chair Rainey. The vote was 7-0 in favor of the motion. ADJOURNMENT With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlee APPROVED HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEETING TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2008 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. - CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Crawford Richmond STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Jackie Brownlee, Jeff Murphy, Dennis Marino, John Burke, Sat Nagar, Dave Cook, Tanya Noble, Stefanie Levine, Evonda Thomas, Cate Herth, Alisa Dean, Nancy Flowers PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Alderman Rainey I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF OUORUM Chair Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:12 p.m. She explained that everyone speaking should come up and state their name and give a summary of their request for funding, followed by questions and comments from the Committee. 11. 2009/10 CDBG PROGRAM - REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS YWCA Evanston/North Shore/Domestic Violence Services Contact Info: Ms. Karen Singer, Executive Director Address: 1215 Church Street, Evanston, 847-864-8445, 24-hour hotline number: 877-718-1868. Amount Reouested: $40,000 Summary: Ms. Singer apologized for missing their scheduled meeting time. She stated that their request for funding this year is for support of their Domestic Violence and Counseling and Case Management Services. She introduced their interim Board President, Lynne Maldinado, and their Operations Director, Genriyeta Papirov. She noted that domestic violence continues to be a major problem in the community, though most domestic problems do not make it into the paper and many go unreported altogether. Nationally. 1 in 4 women will experience some type of domestic abuse in their lifetime. Ms. Singer pointed out that in Evanston alone, extrapolating from these statistics; this means that at a minimum, approximately 8,000 women will be victims of domestic violence at least once in their lifetime. She noted that for over 25 years, the YWCA has been there to help these victimized women when they have reached out and they continue to be there for help and safety support. She informed the Committee that last year their 24-hour hotline answered 1,938 calls from women looking for help, 18% from Evanston. Their shelter CD Committee Mg. Minutes of Oct. 28.2008 Page 2 provided safety, counseling, and case management to 242 women and children fleeing violence in their homes, 12% from Evanston. Their legal advocacy program provided orders of protection, legal information and support to 393 clients, 23% from Evanston. Their community -based services for women who have not left their abuser but need counseling and support serves 70 women, 40% living in Evanston. Their transitional housing provided support and continued counseling to 6 women and l 1 children to help stabilize their lives in Evanston. All told, they serve 790 unduplicated women and children, providing 7,917 direct service hours, 27% to clients in Evanston. Ms. Singer noted that their average annual cost per client is $4.20 per day which is a pretty good investment to help women and children in the community achieve and maintain safety and heal from the violence in their lives. She said that the YWCA has been working hard over the last 4 years to increase their range of funding from private and public partners and have seen a 380% increase in private funding. Since 2004, the YWCA has received funding from government, churches, businesses, corporations, foundations, and United Ways throughout the Chicago, Evanston, and North Shore communities. However, in order to sustain their work, they must rely on their government partners as well. She noted that over the years their government funding has not kept pace with the cost of providing services and in the past year funding has been cut. For example, their CDBG funding was cut last year by 16% from the previous years. Ms. Singer reiterated that the YWCA simply can not sustain their current level of services if this continues. She informed that they are currently turning away over 1500 women and children a year and this number will increase with service cuts due to insufficient funding. She said that while they fully understand the difficult economic climate everyone is experiencing in this day and time, they still respectfully request that the Committee make battered women and children a priority and that at a minimum, restore the YWCA's grant to the 2007 funding level so that they can sustain their current level of services. In conclusion, Ms. Singer gave the 24-hour hotline number (noted above) and welcomed all those that might be interested in volunteering to call their regular office number listed above as well. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey questioned the testimony given regarding 1500 clients being turned away, she asked what percentage of this number were actually requesting shelter. Ms. Singer responded that approximately 1100 women and children were turned away for shelter out of the 1500. Chair Rainey asked what effort is being made in other North suburban communities to provide shelter. Ms. Singer responded that there are a number of other domestic violence shelters provided in the Lake County communities, however she knows of no other cffort to add additional shelter opportunities in the north suburban Cook County communities because funding is so restricted. Chair Rainey recognized this overall effort by the Evanston YWCA and commended their work for this Cook County area and the amount of funding that they receive. However, she questions why there hasn't been pressure in some of the other communities to either provide the Evanston YWCA shelter with funding or assist in providing additional shelter. She noted the unfaimess of this burden being put on the Evanston YWCA given the parameters of that this shelter provides assistance for clients in the north shore communities. Ms. Singer agreed and has raised this issue for some time with other communities. Chair Rainey asked which other communities do offer funding cohere Evanston has provided CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 3 shelter and services to their clients. Ms. Singer responded that they do receive funding from all the North Shore communities via United Way, businesses, corporations, civic groups, and faith based groups are included in "other funding" received. Mr. Richmond asked if the YWCA had of received their full request for funding last year, how it would have affected the I IOU people that were turned away for services. Ms. Singer responded that a percentage of this 1100 number in turn away of services is simply because they do not have the configuration in the shelter for proper rooming needs required for the family in need. However, the additional funding could have provided other means of services such as counseling and assistance to the family in other ways. Aid. lean -Baptiste recalled that in the application it is indicated that the YWCA is servicing a more diverse population in the Hispanic community, etc. He asked if what percentage has there been in servicing other ethnic groups needing assistance in the Evanston community. Also, he asked if the YWCA is engaged in any educational outreach sharing collaboration with other community groups and agencies to help in this effort to assist ethnic groups that do not have the proper means to receive knowledge of domestic violence help and counseling. Ms. Singer responded that there definitely has been an increase in other ethnic groups requesting assistance with the growing diversity in the Evanston community. Ms.Singer stated that they are fully aware of this need to reach out to the ever growing ethic and diverse population in the Evanston community and go out to these outreach groups and agencies that will allow them to speak to their clients. Most of these agencies are faith based groups, a wide range of corporations and businesses and civic groups that employ a large number of ethnic populations where they can provide presentations and awareness raising. She said that they have recognized the large number of young females with children in many of the ethnic groups where increasing domestic violence situations are occurring. However, in recognizing this issue and looking at the situation as a preventative issue, they have started a prevention program around 2000 working with such programs as YOU and Family Focus to do violence prevention with young people. She noted that this year they have expanded this program to work with middle schools and high schools with a curriculum called "Building Healthy Relationships" to try and work on teen dating violence. She asked Ms. Papirov to respond further. Ifs. Papirov informed the Committee that they have seen an increasing number of Hispanic clients, more than any other ethnic group in Evanston. She noted that in relation to court house issues, the Hispanic population number of domestic violence cases has increased, however the Polish speaking population has increased in requested services for transitional assistance for housing. Ms. Burrus first commended the YWCA for all their efforts and assistance in what they do. She noted the efforts made over the past ycars to upgrade their transitional housing and efforts to provide concessions for more accessibility issues. She asked for more elaboration of these efforts to provide accessibility accommodations to their facility. %is. Singer responded that they are trying to work out some of the logistical and financial issues that act as challenges in terms of making their transitional housing accessible. She noted that it is accessible to many people with disabilities, however they are not wheelchair accessible at this point. She said they are working at assisting their wheelchair need clients to find apartments when the leases arc up to accommodate these clients. However, this task is very difficult in finding accessible buildings T CD Comminee Mtg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 4 that are affordable given their fair market rental from HUD. She informed that they arc working with Ms. Flax and Human Services on this issue. Connections for the Homeless/Sinele Adult Services Contact Info: Paul Selden, Executive Director Address: 2010 Dewey Avenue, Evanston, 847475-7070, Entry Point Program—1-800- 439-6691,%vww.connectionsforthchomeless.org or %vwtiv.cfihinc.orG Amount Reoucstcd: $18,500 Summarv: Mr. Selden apologized for missing his scheduled time for review of their application. He explained that he was in transit from Springfield, actually seeking additional funding, and was delayed on the train. Mr. Selden called attention to some important statistics in their Single Adult Services program. fie noted that on June 30, 2007, they finished a year in which they had worked with 270 people who were living on the street; 234 new clients and 36 clients from the previous year. On June 30, 2008, their program worked with 400 people; in the last 6 months they had already worked with 256 people and expect to be over 500 people this year. Mr. Selden said it is clear that the homeless population has risen over the past two years and their services are stretched to the limits at this point trying to accommodate the ever rising number of clients. He noted that they are seeing this increase in people in their drop -in center which regularly has 50 people every morning. Interfaith Action's Hospitality Center also sees around 50 people every day. Therefore, on any given day 100-150 homeless people are wandering through the streets of Evanston. Mr. Seldon pointed out that this is a tremendous impact on the Evanston community. Mr. Seldon said they propose to use their CDBG request for ID's and transportation to work. He said the only way they are going to deal with some of the homelessness problem is to help people find jobs and to get them employed so that they can provide for their oNvn more permanent housing; there are not enough subsidies to get all of the homeless people off the street, therefore these people need to find employment. The first step for getting a person employment is to help them get needed identification. S12,500 of their CDBG request is for this cost and S6,000 is for transit passes to interviews for homeless individuals seeking employment. Mr. Seldon said that they coordinate: with Interfaith Action who has a job counselor to assist with employment opportunities for the homeless. Mr. Sheldon recognized the Committee's difficult position in distributing CDBG funds every year. He noted that some things are desirable and will make Evanston a much better city, but there are some things that are absolutely essential and the City would be much worse off with out. He stated that the programs that provide services to aid in reducing homelessness are essential. Ouestions and Comments: In response to a question from the Committee, Mr. Seldon gave a brief overview of the services provided by the Entry Point Program and Hilda's Place. He CD Committee NUg. Min utes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 5 informed that anyone in need of the services provided by these programs should cull the #800 number listed above. Police & Public Works/SNAP Pilot: Liehtine for Safety Contact Info: Officer Tanya Noble/Public Works Director John Burke Phone: 847-866-5018/847-866-2966, ww-w.snanatcitvofevanston.ore Amount Reauested: $30,000 Summary: Officer Noble said that she is a member of the Evanston Policc Department's Problem Solving Team can be reached at the email address above. Her counterpart for this grant is the Public Works Director, John Burke. She welcomes anyone who would like to help with the Safer Neighborhood Area Project (SNAP); there are already several City volunteers and is a wonderful opportunity to help in some of the Evanston neighborhoods that need it most. Officer Noble noted that she reviewed a report called "A Plan for the Future of Evanston Street Lighting System" from the Evanston Street Lighting Committee from April 12, 1979. She noted that this is the last written report of the lighting system in Evanston and is extremely outdated. This pilot program will be a significant step towards SNAP implementation. She said the City of Evanston's Engineering Division has recommended that the City employ the services of a lighting consultant to work with staff in two of the SNAP neighborhoods that have been identified as gap areas where lighting is insufficient. The consultant will conduct a lighting and power source evaluation for the public way and provide a lighting design for bidding purposes. Officer Noble stated that the lighting and power source study or pilot is designed to test logistics and gather information, in order to improve the quality and efficiency from the current lighting situation. Such a study can reveal deficiencies in the design or procedure which can be addressed before time and resources are expended. Officer Noble referred to an aerial diagram to point out the two specific areas for the pilot study. The two areas are the 1900 block of Jackson and the 2100 block of Darrow Avenues. She noted that these two blocks have had serious crime issues because of insufficient lighting and low visibility; the trees in the parkway have overgrown the current lighting. Officer Noble said that the long; term ramifications of such a pilot study would be very valuable since the City of Evanston currently has no formal lighting codes for safety relative to the public way. She noted that this project addresses Goal 4 of the Strategic Plan and the outcome could improve the long- range infrastructure plan with regards to proper lighting. She pointed out that proper lighting and spacing; has been installed in another target neighborhood, the 100-300 block of Custer. She concluded by saying this pilot study is one strategy to improve the quality of life in target neighborhoods. The two particular areas for this study are blocks with a majority percentage being low income and minority. These blocks are also plagued with high crime rates, deteriorating housing stock, vacant and boards properties, absentee landlords, litter and illegal dumping, and very inadequate lighting;. The improvement in lighting could significantly reduce some of the problems. CD Committee Mtg. Minutes ofOct. 28.2008 Page 6 Ouestions and Comments Mr. Richmond asked about the study from 1979 and if there is a significant difference versus the crime statistics then compared with today. Officer Noble assured that there is a much greater percentage in the crime level and the types of criminal behavior since 1979. That is why it is so important to have this study to update data from 30 years ago. Chair Rainey stated that she is concerned about the consultant fees and questioned the need to do a study to improve a situation that obviously needs to be upgraded; especially as important as improved lighting for safety reasons. She noted that the lighting in the 100-300 blocks of Custer has not particularly helped the area with crime issues, but the camera on Howard Street has helped tremendously. She suggested that maybe this method of helping to prevent crime should be considered along with additional lighting. At any cause, Chair Rainey feels the $30,000 is excessive for a study that only covers 2 blocks. Mr. Burke responded that these two areas have been identified as having the largest gaps in lighting, with the highest crime levels. He noted that Public Works staff does not have the expertise in lighting design for gaps. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that it in the majority of the lower economic neighborhoods there is a need for improved lighting. He would like to see a study that covered more areas of need. Chair Rainey questioned why funding for this study and project do not come out of the Capital Improvement Plan. She recommends that City staff consider this as an option because she does not feel that consultant fees for a study of this type is the best usage of CDBG funds. Public Works/Allev Pavine Program Contact Info: John Burke, Director of Public Works, Sat Nagar, Senior Engineer, 847-866-2966 or 866-2967 Amount Requested: $240,000 Summary: Mr. Burke informed the Committee that Mr. Nagar is the Manager of the Alley Paving Program. The City paves one alley per year using CDBG funds and Public Works staff is again requesting funding for that purpose. He noted that staff designs the alley and oversees construction of the alley paving in-house as well. Typically alleys are concrete with a drainage system that directs all the storm water into the City's sewers. He noted that this year's project in the 8`h ward the City is a green alley using a porous concrete material. He further noted that this is a pilot program that the City is very excited about. He noted that these improvements enhance the alley and storm water drainage to the affected area and lowers the City's maintenance cost as well. Mr. Nagar gave a brief overview of the proposed alley targeted for improvement. He noted that alleys are prioritized based on the condition and their immediate need for storm water drainage upgrading. An alley in the 2°d ward located north of Dempster, east of Dewey, and west of Ashland Avenue has been chosen because it has experienced many problems, from drainage to severe potholes, and difficulty with garbage collection by their Streets and Sanitation Division. He noted that the requested funding would be used for construction only because the staff does CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 7 all the design and oversees the project. He informed the Committec that City staff groups All the alleys that require paving in the upcoming year for bidding which will result in the cost being 15- 20% lower. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked staff to identify a number for the Evanston community to call if they would like to request their alley be considered for the stated improvements by the City. Mr. Nagar confirmed that any Evanston resident can call the numbers listed above and City staff will explain the process. fie further noted that there is assistance for qualifying low to moderate income households to apply for a waiver of the alley assessment fee. Public Works & Community Development/Ailey Special Assessment Assistance Contact Info: Sarah Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator, 847-866-2928, www.cdbena.citvofevanston.org Amount Requested: S55,000 Summarv: Ms. Flax stated that this proposal for CDBG funds is a continuation of the previously funded program. She reiterated that recipients of assistance must meet income qualifications. Households on alleys paved in summer of 2008 would be able to apply for assistance in 2009/10. She gave the website that gives the information for this program as listed above. Public Works/Block Curb & Sidewalk Contact Info: John Burke, Director of Public Works/Sat Nagar, Senior Engineer, 847-866-2966 or 2967, 866-2924 Amount Requested: $100,000 Summarv: Mr. Burke said again this is another long-standing City program to replace sections of deteriorated sidewalk and curbing for both drainage purposes and to provide safer walking. He said they usually take citizen and Aldermanic requests. However this year, City staff has inventoried all sidewalks through the transportation points throughout Evanston. He said staff will be able to come back before Council and A&MN' to recommend sections in the CDBG target areas that need sidewalk repair through this program. Ouest'tons and Comments: Ald. Jean -Baptiste requested that staffprovide information to the public about this program and any participation qualifications. Mr. Burke said that all inquiries about this program should call the 847-866-2924 number. This program is funded 100% through CDBG, however there is a 50/50 program which is funded through the Capital Fund as well. Public Works and Health & Human Services/Accessible Curb Ramps (ADAI CD Committee Mlg. Ntinutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 8 Contact info: Brian Barnes, Inclusion Specialist, John Burke, Director of Public Works, Sat Nagar, Senior Engineer, 847448-8054, 847-866-2966 or 2967 Amount Requested: $120,000 Summary: Mr. Barnes stated that this program was developed 9 years ago in conjunction with the Public Works Department to make sidewalks and curbs more accessibility for people with disabilities, senior citizens, and people with young children and strollers. He said this program removcs non -compliant ramps and replaces them with ramps that meet the ADA standards as well as the Illinois Accessibility Code. They have replaced over 800 ramps with the funding that they have been given and he expressed his appreciation for the CDBG Committee's support. He said the requested funding of $120,000 this year will allow the City to focus on the downtown area where the brick paving has loosened over the years. He noted that the cost of materials is up from last year from approximately $800 per ramp to around S 1500 per ramp, Mr. Barnes stated that this curb replacement program is part of the Multi -Motor Transportation Plan that is currently being worked on with the sidewalk inventory, The results of this inventory study will tell staff where there is a need for curbs to be added or replaced. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey pointed out that it was stated that 18 ADA ramps were done at various locations throughout the City for this past year; please elaborate. Mr. Sat responded that the City did over 30 ramps this past year; each corner is considered a separate ramp. He stated that the funding is used only for the construction cost itself; staff does all the project management, design and bid the jobs for contractors in conjunction with the other sidewalk replacement projects. All of the previous funds received have been expended. Ms. Flax noted that in her report she counted intersections and not actual curb cuts, accounting for the difference. Chair Rainey asked for more clarification about the need for curb replacements for downtown because it appears that most of the current curbs have ramps in place. Mr. Barnes reiterated that the current bricks in place present a unique situation with the buckling of the bricks over time and cause them to be a safety hazard and non -accessible for people with visual and other disabilities. He further noted that they are targeting the downtown area because many of the disabled citizens are located and travel in this area. He said they will be happy to look at other highly traveled areas that are in need of this same curb replacement with the tiled raised dots. Health & Human Services -Community Relations/Alternative Dispute Resolution Contact Info: Alisa Dean. Community Relations Manager, Joan Raisner, Co -Chair Human Relations Commission, 847-866-2958, 847-328-4103 Amount Requested: $72,000 Summary: Ms. Dean introduced the Co -Chair of the Human Relations Commission, Ms. Joan Raisner, who has a background in Social Service Administration and has worked with the YWCA for many years. She has recently retired from 17 years as a family mediator for the Circuit Cook County Court and is a 28 year resident of the City of Evanston. Ms. Raisner stated CD Committee Mfg. Minutes of Oct. 28. 2008 Page 9 the background for this request is that the Human Relations Commission and the Community Relations Manager field numerous requests for services and information which are increasing daily. She passed out a chart of some of the more recent activity in this department and the number of complaints that staff is handling. litany of these calls are from residents requesting immediate services from staff or referrals to other agencies who can assist them. IVSs. Raisner said that the Human Relations Commission is mandated to provide alternative dispute resolutions, but these services are not always available due to a lack of staffing to accommodate the number of requests. She noted that until July 2008, there was a position of the Human Relations Specialist which was funded in part by CD9G funds. This position not only covered many of the requests from residents but also provided mediation services, especially in disputes between landlords and tenants. Nis. Raisner stated that this application for block grant funds is unusual because it is a joint application by a City Department, the Community Relations Division, and another City entity, the Evanston Human Relations Commission. Second, this request is unusual because it supports a City position with dual responsibilities of addressing citizen requests for assistance and to re-establish the alternative dispute resolution service in the community. She stated other responsibilities of this position include monitoring the calls and visits of residents who arc seeking services for providing a direct response and by keeping the needed records. This position would also be responsible for assisting the efforts of the Human Relations Commission, training volunteer mediators and assigning appropriate cases to those mediators. Ms. Raisner indicated the importance to the City of continuing these services, especially at this time of economic struggle being experienced by people at all income levels. However, the majority who seek their assistance are persons of moderate to low income and have limited resources. Ms. Raisner concluded by strongly requesting the Committee's support. questions and Comments: Mr. Richmond pointed out the large number orlandlord/tenant complaints within the 50'ward in comparison to the other wards; which clearly points out the need for this service in the target area and the majority of low to moderate income residents. Chair Rainey asked what skills or qualifications arc they looking for in the individuals that would be considered for this position. Nis. Dean responded they arc looking for someone with a social service and counseling background in combination with administration skills for proper record keeping. Chair Rainey stated that there is a definite problem with this request to use CDBG funds to support a City in-house position. She said that if these services can no longer be handled by current staff then requests need to be referred to other support services and agencies such as Interfaith Housing that provide mediation services. She suggested that this service may not continue to be offered by the City of Evanston. Ms. Raisner noted that there has been a City position providing these services for many years and is a mandated function of the Human Relations Commission. Ms. Burrus agreed .%ith Chair Rainey that it is inappropriate to create new positions with "soft money" such as CDBG funds. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if staff is currently referring clients to other outside agencies. Ms. Dean assured that they are referring as many cases as possible, however many of their clients are in need of more immediate services and intervention assistance especially between landlords and tenants where there is possible displacement involved and other emergency help. Chair Rainey reiterated that this may not be a function best filled by City staff and again pointed out that this is one of the main functions of agencies such as interfaith housing, who have significant expertise and are committed to these matters. Ms. Evonda Thomas. Director of Health & Human Services, clarified that the position of Human Relations Specialist became vacant in July 2008 due to the Early Retirement Initiative. CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 10 She noted that this was a long-standing position within the Human Relations Division and the responsibilities and services offered from that job were utilized by many Evanston residents for a long period of time. This is why they find it important to continue those services to residents in need. Ms. Burrus reiterated that the request for this position should be included in Health & Human Services budget for the upcoming fiscal year. This opinion was the consensus of the CDBG Committee. Health & Human Services - Commission on ARinWI-landvman Program Contact Info: Nancy Flowers, Community Health Division Manager, 847-866-2964, called for assistance at 847-866-2919, w►vw.acins!atcitvofevanston.ore Amount Reauested: $14,000 Summary: Ms. Flowers explained that the Handyman program provides minor home repair and maintenance assistance to low and moderate income senior adult homeowners and renters in Evanston. The program serves all persons 62+ years of age within the target area and any income eligible residents within this age group outside of the target area. She noted that Commission on Aging staff coordinate the intake of requests and eligibility determination for the program while contracting with CEDA Neighbors at Work for the actual handyman services. When necessary, the program pays for materials and supply costs. Ms. Flowers said that the majority of referrals and requests come from the CDBG target area. The Handyman program offers assistance with a range of minor home repairs and maintenance from repairing doors and windows, installing hand railings and smoke detectors, replacing locks and other home safety devices, weatherproofing, repairing various plumbing and electrical problems, etc. In summary, the minor repairs usually help to reduce energy costs for the homeowner and/or provide safety/security measures. Ms. FIowers said the Handyman program completed 153 request for assistance during the last program year, which is an increase over the previous year. So far this year, the program has received 128 request for assistance. Oucstions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked if there was any left over funds from last year. Ms. Flowers responded that they do have enough funds to last through this year, but money will be depleted fast due to the need for assistance. The Committee commended this program and their efforts. Health & Human Services/Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) Contact Info: Cam Herth, SYEP Program Manager, 847-866-2976 Amount Reoucsted: $53,400 Summarv: Mr. Herth gave a brief background of the Summer Youth Employment Program, which has been in existence for 16 years to provide employment for teens from the age of 14-18, the majority of whom arc ETHS students. The program begins with the annual Job Fair in April CD Committee Mtg. Minutes oroct. 29, 2008 Page I l and the employment begins in June and runs for nine weeks. He noted that the SYEP also provides other training opportunities and works in collaboration with the Jr. Achievement Program for soil training skills and other job related learning opportunities that benefit youth in preparing, them for the work environment. Mr. Hersh stated that all requested funding is invested in the Evanston community and pays for supervisors who oversee the work of the young employees, provide assistance in conducting the Job Fair and with other administrative requirements to run the program. Ouestions and Comments: Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that over the years he has watched SYEP and the involvement of the community in this program, and the tremendous participation in the annual job fair and commends the efforts of the program. Chair Rainey questioned if the City is still paying for the salaries of youth hired by private companies and asked if any attempts have been made to get those companies to contribute more towards this program, especially since they are benefiting from hiring through SYEP. Mr. Hersh responded that this is an ongoing effort and that he has been discussing ways to promote this contribution from Evanston businesses towards this program with Ms. Thomas. He noted that the Township Supervisor's Office supprots this effort as well. Parks. Forestry & Recreation and Facilities Manacement/Fleetwood Jourdain Gym Roof Replacement Contact Info: Dave Cook, Superintendent of Facilities Management, 847-448-8181 Amount Reauested: $50,000 Summary: Mr. Cook stated that this roof replacement program for the Fleetwood Jourdain Community Center is a very important job that has been an on -going project over the past several years. They are in the final construction phase to complete this project. He gave a brief summary of the project thus far; noting that in 2005 there was a roof assessment done and it was determined that the roof had past its anticipated replacement date. In 2006, the project was bid and the first phases of the construction were undertaken in 2007. Mr. Cook informed the Committee that the funding amount requested is only a portion needed to complete this project. He assured that all the CDBG funds requested are for construction costs only; Facilities Management staff serves as the general contractor with this project. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked what the total cost for this roof replacement project comes to. Mr. Cook responded that the total cost is $240.000. Parks. Forestry & Recreation and Facilities ManauementfFoster Field Renovation - Phase IA Contact Info: Stefanie Levine, Landscape Architect, 847448-8043 Amount Reauested: $100,000 ma CD Committee Mtg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 12 Summarv: Ms. Levine stated that the first phase of this renovation project for Foster Field Is underway. She noted that the CDBG request of funding will complete the work in Phuse I. She gave a brief overview of the entire Foster Field Renovation project using diagrams showing the current field configuration and the nc«v plan. She also showed what parts arc owned by the City, Family Focus and School District 65. She further explained the renovation in detail by pointing out the existing outdated facilities. the Phase I work, and the final Foster Field Project. Ms. Levine referred the Committee to the project schedule and target completion dates for each phase of the project included in the application. Ouestions and Comments: Aid. Bernstein asked for a breakdown of the cost for Phase 1 and the cost of the completed project. his. Levine responded that the total cost for Phase is $1.1 million dollars and the cost of the entire project is currently estimated at S1.6 million dollars. She reiterated that all CDBG funds requested in this application will be used for construction only. Purchasing-/M-W-EBE & Local Emr)lovmcnt Proerams Contact Info: Lloyd Shepard, M/W/EBE, 847-448-8078 Amount Reauested: $106,857.20 Summarv: Mr. Shepard thanked the Commission for their past support for this program. He gave a brief summary of the M/W/EBE program, which identifies and promotes opportunities for Minority/Women/Evanston Business Enterprises in the City's procurement system to provide commodities, professional services and construction trades. In addition, he is currently working on a Local Employment Program Ordinance which, when enacted, will address employment opportunities for low and moderate income Evanston residents to work on City of Evanston funded construction projects. He noted that the current Employment Program does not require contractors to hire Evanston residents but instead encourages the employment of minority and/or female Evanston residents who are economically disadvantaged. Mr. Shepard noted that the M/W/EBE program is predicated upon the M/W/EBE Local Business Disparity Study for the City of Evanston which was submitted by D.J. Miller & Associates, Inc. in 1996 and Resolution 71-R-97 to reorganize the MBE Advisory Committee which was adopted by the City of Evanston in September 1997. He noted that the request this year for funding will go towards the cost to implement the program as planned. In the past several years, CDBG funding was reduced or cut by a significant amount. Mr. Shepard said that due to a lack of funds. he was unable to conduct the annual Citv Vendor Fair for Evanston 6%,hich brings in a significant amount of business for M/W/EBE. Mr. Shepard said that some of his goals for 2009/ 10 include achieving 25% M/W/EBE participation in construction contracts and purchases of commodities and 10- 25% for professional services; having at least one bid be an M/W/EBE for contracts under $20,000, enactment of the LEP Ordinance; conducting at least one supplier diversity conference in 2009. Ouestions and Comments: Several questions were raised about the responsibilities of the Coordinator and how much impact he has in the bidding process. Chair Rainey questioned the value of the M/W/EBE coordinator's involvement in the bidding process, and stated that the CD Committee i11tg. Minutes oroct. 2tt, Zoos Page 13 entire process, including ensuring that the M/W/EBE targets are met, could he the responsibi lily of Department stall'oversecing each job. Aid. lean -Baptiste clarified that the NI/W/1:111s Coordinator is bound by specific policies and guidelines; however he will be able to get more involved with the enactment of the local Employment Program Ordinance. Also his monitoring responsibilities will increase with passage of this ordinance as well. Ms. Burrus noted that the goals and accomplishments in the application and report arc not clear and requested more specifics of the work being done by this office. Communitv Develonment/Housine Code Compliance Contact Info: Jeff Murphy, Asst. Director, Housing Rehab & Property Standards, 847448-8030 Amount Reuested: $504,137 Summarv: Mr. Murphy said that the Housing Code Compliance is a Property Standards program that conducts on -going inspections throughout the entire Evanston area. Normally there should be I inspector per 10,000 units which would require 7 inspectors for the City. He noted that his current housing inspector staff consists of 4 inspectors who do the best they can to keep up with all responsibilities that go along with Housing Code Compliance. Mr. Murphy informed that CDBG funds the inspection of buildings with three or more dwelling units in the CDBG Target Area on a 2-year cycle. Among the inspectors list of duties are area inspections, response to complaints relating to problem property issues, abandoned vehicles, graffiti, illegal dwelling units, utility cut-offs, over -occupancy, public sidewalk violations, hazardous trees and limbs. He said despite all fie just listed under complaints and exterior violations, the inspectors do the interior violation inspections with their area inspections. Mr. Murphy noted that Property Standards is also responsible for conducting inspections of restaurants for litter compliance, weekly inspection of the downtown district for compliance with trash storage, inspections of monitoring of vacant buildings and lots, single-family rental housing, inspections of day care and group home facilities referred by the Health Department, etc. Currently one inspector is out on sick leave and another on maternity leave. He has hired a temporary inspector and recently hired his replacement as Supervising Inspector who supervises the day-to-day activities. operation and organization of all the Property Standards Inspectors. Mr. Murphy noted that the requested funding comes to 75% of the Property Standards program budget for fiscal year 2009/10 based on the amount of work done in the CDBG Target Area. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey asked if funds are being requested to add an inspector position. Mr. Murphy responded that an additional position has not been requested through CDBG or the General Fund. Chair Rainey suggests that staff consider doing so because the need is evident of the workload and lack of staffing within the I lousing Code Compliance program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste agreed and said that staff really needs to consider proposing an additional position in the budget for Property Standards. Ms. Burrus acknowledged all that tite Housing Inspectors do and encouraged them to keep up the good work flint tile), do with such short staffing. CD Cnmmiuce Mtg. Minutes of Oct, 29, 2008 Page 14 C=nwnity Develonntcnt/13oard Uns & Clean UU Contact lnta;, Jcft'Murphy, Ass[. Director, Housing Rehab & Property Standards, 847-448-8030 Amount Rccauested: $30,000 Summary: Mr. Murphy gave a brief summary of this program which funds clean-ups and board -ups of abandoned or foreclosed properties. He noted that staff is experiencing an increasing need for this, which is the reason for the increase in their funding request from last year. He noted that Property Standards inspectors are monitoring approximately 80 properties and they anticipate that this number will increase over the next year. Currently the highest number of abandoned properties are located in the S*' and 2" wards, but every ward has at least one building. He noted that the requested funds are used for the cost of board up materials and board up company's fees. CDBG funds are used only for board ups in the Target Area. Questions and Comments: Aid. Jean -Baptiste raised the question of why so many buildings require the need for the board up service and asked if Facilities Management staff could do some of this work. Mr. Murphy responded that board ups use large pieces of plywood to cover windows, doorways and other entry ways into the property, which require specialized tools and equipment to lift the pieces of plywood into place. The City is not equipped to do this kind of work, nor could staff respond with the immediacy that outside contractors can. Community Develonment/Grafiiti Removal Proeram Contact Info: Jeff Murphy, Asst. Director, Housing Rehab & Property Standards, 847-448-8030 Amount Recauested: $46,800 Summary: Mr. Murphy stated that the funding requested for this program covers a portion of the Graffiti Technician's salary and fringe benefits. This program removes graffiti from public property in the CDBG Target Area as it occurs on light poles, traffic signs and control boxes, street signs, sidewalks, and public parks, etc. He said that graffiti is an on -going issue especially in the low to moderate income areas which are designated CDBG Target Areas. In the past year there were over 20,000+ calls and service request for graffiti removal. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey commended the work of the Graffiti Technician and this program. Communitv Devclonment/Housine Rehabilitation Administration Cgntail In1b: Jef]' Murphy, Asst. Director, Housing Rehab & Property Standards, 847448-8030 Anlounj Rcguested: $422,195 CD Committee ,%Itg. f►tinutes of Oct. 23, 2008 Page 15 Summary-: Mr. Murphy said that the Housing Rehab Administration funds the staff time and expenses for the single- and multi -family rehab projects whose construction costs arc funded with loans from the Revolving Loan Fund. The Rehab program targets low to moderate income homeowners who need to make life safety repairs and improvements. Housing Rehab staff completes the initial inspection of the property, helps with the application, processes the application to determine eligibility. prepares work specifications and cost estimates, assists in securing contractors, and oversees the project until completion. Staff estimates 12 single-family projects and 12 multi -family projects for the 2009/10 fiscal year. Mr. Murphy indicated that CDBG funds are used for 3.5 staff positions in the Housing Rehab Program. He also informed the Committee that their Rehab Specialist assists with HOME Projects and Facade Improvement projects and has stepped up to assist with Housing Code Compliance inspections as well. This position is also being spread thin at the current time. Ouestions and Comments: Chair Rainey requested that staff make the condo portion of this program more visible on the website. Mr. Murphy responded that he is aware of the problem and will have the webpage modified as soon as possible. Communitv Development-PlannincJNeiehborhood Facade Imnrovement Program Contact Info: Sarah Flax. CDBG Grants Administrator, 847-866-2928 Amount Requested: $35,000 Summary: Staff noted that the fagade project at 1824 Crain has been completed this year and two other projects, at Howard and Custer and Howard and Chicago, will use most of the remaining funds for this program. This request will enable one or more additional projects to be undertaken in 2009/10. CDBG funds are used to pay 50% of the cost of fagade improvements, up to $10,000 per storefront, and staffing of the program to provide technical assistance as needed, monitor for Davis Bacon compliance, etc. Communitv Development-PlannintJNeiahborhood Initiatives Fund Contact Info: Sarah Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator, 847-866-2928 Amount Requested: $15,000 Summary: Ms. Flax explained that this would reinstate a program that provided funding to neighborhood groups in the CDBG Target Area to undertake projects to improve their neighborhoods. Examples include landscaping, organizing and equipping neighborhood watches, turning a vacant lot into a garden, etc. Often the timing of these projects does not coincide with the timing of the CDBG application process. 'Phis fund would allow neighborhood groups to work throughout the year with the City's Planning Division staff and the FPD Problem Salving Team to apply for funds and would support the goals of the SNAI' program. CD Comminee Mtg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 16 Ouestions and Comments: Mr. Richmond asked how the public would be informed about this program. Ms. Flax responded that they will need to advertise through Highlights, the City c- newsletter, and that information would be forwarded to the list of neighborhood groups compiled by the EPD and Neighborhood Planner. Presentations would also be made at Ward meetings and at Community Centers. Communitv Development-PlanninnJAdont A Fanev Can Contact Info: Sarah Flax. CDBG Grants Administrator. 947-866-2928 Amount Reouested: 55,100 Summary: Ms. Flax said the requested funds for this program are for a continuation of the current program, which has been quite successful over the past years. Additional cans, liners and bags would be purchased and distributed to residents in the CDBG Target Area to address litter problems in their neighborhoods. Community Development-Plannine/CDBG Administration Contact Info: Sarah Flax, CDBG Grants Administrator, 847-866-2928 Amount Reouested: $396,800 Summary: Ms. Flax noted that this funds the administration and management of the City's CDBG Program. In addition to ongoing management responsibilities, the 2009/10 CDBG program goals include development of the City's new five-year Consolidated Plan. Planning staff monitors and reports on the CDBG funded projects to ensure compliance of Federal, State and City regulations and processes. Ill. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENTS Chair Rainey acknowledged this year's application package preparation was very organized and efficient. She commended Ms. Flax on her "cheat sheets" which helped the Committee assess applications and accelerated the review process. Mr. Marino clarified for the Committee that the Property Standards Division was affected by early retirements. Ile noted that the Secretary 11 position has been tilled. a temporary inspector hired to cover for staff on medical leave and that the new Supervising; Inspector would start in a week, addressing most of the personnel issues. Staff noted that the next meeting of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee is on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. The Committee will make its funding; recommendations for the 2009/10 CDBG year. The meeting is open to the public and will be televised on Evanston cable. CD Committee hitg. Minutes of Oct. 28, 2008 Page 17 IV. ADJOURNMENT With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlee APPROVED HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEETING TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2008 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:00 P.M. - CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER ALDERMAN PRESENT: Aid. Steve Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Anjana Hansen, Aid. Lionel Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Ann Rainey, Crawford Richmond STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax, Raye Janousek, Jackie Brownlee PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Alderman Rainey I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Chair Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:14 p.m. She welcomed all in attendance. She explained that all the allocations listed arc based on all the proposals submitted. The total estimated available funds for the 2009/10 fiscal year is $2.053,046.00 and the applications total $3,530,472.00. Therefore the Committee has the responsibility of eliminating $1,477,426 from the funding requested. She further pointed out that spending in the Administration category is capped at 20% of the grant and Public Services is capped at 15%. H. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PRIOR MEETINGS Ms. Burrus moved approval of the September 16, 2008 meeting minutes, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. The vote was 7-0 in favor oi'the motion. Ald. Bernstein moved approval of the October 14, 2008 meeting minutes, seconded by Ms. Burrus. The vote was 7-0 in favor of the motion. III, 2009/10 CDBG PROGRAM Administration The Committee members asked staff to identify last years grant entitlement amount. Ms. Flax responded that last year the grant amount was approximately $1,900,000 and the Committee had just over $2 million to allocate with the reallocations. She noted that this year HUD has recommended estimating the 2009/10 grant at 3% less than their current year grant, which was done. Ms. Flax clarified that this number is not final because I-IUD's budget has not been approved yet. Chair Rainey stated that in light of past experience, it appears that the projected funding is in the ball park. She noted we can be more optimistic for next year's funding. Chair Rainey opened recommendations for funding with a motion to allocate $370,000 to CDBG Administration, seconded by Ms. Burrus. Aid. Jean -Baptiste noted that the total CD Committee Mtg. November 11, 2008 Page 2 allocation for Administration is significantly less than the total amount the Committee is being asked to consider. If the Committee allocated the total amount available in Administration to CDBG Administration, this would result in no allocation to Af/W/EBE. He referred to last year's allocated amount to this program which was vastly reduced from the amount requested. Aid Jean -Baptiste proposed an alternative allocation of 5322,400 to CDBG Administration and 552,000 to M/W/EBE because otherwise it could jeopardize the latter program as funding it strictly through the General Fund is questionable, as the money may not be available to cover the entire program. He elaborated on the importance of this program and the responsibilities of the Coordinator, noting that it is especially important to the CDBG Target Areas for employment and involvement in construction projects throughout the City of Evanston. Chair Rainey responded that many of the Coordinator's duties could become the responsibility of all the City Departments involved in contract negotiations for work within the City of Evanston. Ms. Burrus agreed and questioned what outcomes the M/W/EBE Program Coordinator is responsible for and whether the same goals and accomplishments be met by other City Staff involved in the actual contract negotiations. Mr. Richmond expressed his support for Aid. Jean-Baptiste's recommended amendment to allocate fund to the M/W/EBE Program and would for some funds to be allocated to the Human Relations Commission's Alternative Dispute Resolution & Advocacy Services. Aid. Jean -Baptiste further noted that the M/W/EBE deals with specific compliance issues and assures that special stipulations are met in City Contracts that would not otherwise be met. He expressed concern that this program could be abandoned without CDBG funding. Chair Rainey maintained her support for allocating 5370,000 to CDBG Administration, pointing out that these funds support City staff such as 80% of the Neighborhood Planner position, 10% of the Director's position, 50% of the General Planner's position, and 40% of the Housing Planner position, all of which have done significant work in the CDBG Target Areas and continue to do so. She reiterated that the CDBG Administration is invaluable and benefits all of the citizens and entire City of Evanston. After all discussion, Chair Rainey's motion resulted in a vote of 4 ayes and 3 nays. Public Services Chair Rainey moved to allocate 58,750 to Meal at Home, S2,000 to Music Institute of Chicago, 524,000 to North Shore Senior Center, 52,000 to Brummel Park Neighbors, and 540,000 to Evanston Community Defender Office, Inc. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. The vote was 3 in favor of the motion and 4 voting nay. Motion failed. Aid. Hansen moved to allocate 59,000 to Meals at Home, 52,000 to Music Institute of Chicago, 525,000 to North Shore Senior Center, 52,000 to Brummel Park Neighbors, 545,000 to the Evanston Community Defender Office, Inc., SO to the Evanston Youth Initiative, S10,000 to the Legal Assistance Foundation of ;Metro. Chicago, 55,000 to Girl Scouts, 53,000 to Open Studio Project, 510,000 to Youth Action Ministry, 545,000 to Summer Youth Employment Program, 530,550 to YWCA, 52,000 to Interfaith Action of Evanston, 549,000 to The Youth Job Center, S4,000 to Connections for the Homeless, 514,000 to Interfaith Housing Center, S4,000 to Adopt A Fancy Can Program, 535,000 to the Graffiti Removal Program, 55,000 to the Neighborhood Initiatives Fund. Chair Rainey seconded the motion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste recommended a small modification to allocate $2,000 to the Evanston Youth Initiative because it has been a program that has been on the scene for some time now and has volunteered their services in many ways. He recommended reducing the CD Committee Mtg. November 11. 2008 Page 3 Youth Job Center by $1,000 and the CD Neighborhood Initiative Fund by $1,000 in exchange. This recommendation by Aid. Jean -Baptiste was accepted as an amendment to the original motion, seconded by Mr. Richmond. The vote on the amended motion was 4 in favor and 3 voting nay. Motion passed. Chair Rainey stated that the resulting allocation for Public Services totaled $299,550 which complies with the 15% cap. She explained that if when the City receives its allocation the grant is larger than estimated, this would increase the Public Service Cap. She noted that if the Committee so chooses, it can reconvene to address any change in funding. Ms. Flax confirmed that to be correct and noted that all funding included in the One Year Action Plan to HUD is provisional at this time. She said that if the allocation changes, then the capped categories change and the City can reconsider and revise allocations based on the final grant. Rehabilitation - Housine & Commercial Ms. Burrus moved to allocate S122,000 to CEDA Neighbors at Work, Inc., S11,700 to City - Handyman Program, No funds to Over the Rainbow Association, as that project is being recommended for HOME Funds, S25,000 to the Neighborhood Fagade Improvement Program, $124,998 to the CD Revolving Loan Fund, and $320,000 to Housing Rehab Administration. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Chair Rainey informed the Committee of her discussions and involvement with the City's Housing Rehab staff, stressed the importance of the work that they do in the CDBG Target Area and voiced her support for the work and efforts made by this division that benefit all the citizens of Evanston. Chair Rainey moved to amend the recommended allocation for Housing Rehab Administration from S320,000 to $325,000, this was seconded by Aid. Bernstein. The vote was 7-0 in favor of the amended motion. Chair Rainey noted that this would bring the resulting total allocation for Rehabilitation - Housing & Commercial to $608,698. Code Enforcement Ald. Jean -Baptiste proposed a single motion for remaining requests under the last three categories. Under Code Enforcement, he moved to allocate S375,000 for Property Standards Code Compliance and S30,000 for Code Compliance -Board Up & Clean Up. Public Facilities & Improvements Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to allocate S40,000 for the Foster Field Renovation -Phase IA, $50,000 for the Fleetwood-Jourdain Roof Replacement, S100,000 for the Alley Paving Program, S40,000 for the Alley Special Assessment Assistance Program, S50,000 for the ADA Curb Ramp Replacement Program, S50,000 for the Block Curb and Sidewalk Program, no funds for the SNAP Pilot Program which was withdrawn, S14,000 for the YMCA Residence improvement Air Conditioning project, S3,000 for the Shade Trees for the shared playground of Washington School and Robert Crown Center, S36,000 for the Family Focus Elevator Installation project. Economic Development Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved that S46,098 he allocated to the ECDC Business Development & Economic Opportunity Program and S15,000 to the Evanston Business Ownership Initiative. Aid. Bernstein seconded the all the motions made for discussion purposes. CD Committee Mtg. November 11, 2008 Page 4 DISCUSSION AND FINAL FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS Mr. Richmond expressed his concern that the Family Focus Elevator Installation project may not go forward due to the lack of funding. He felt they have made a good faith effort to go forward with this project and have provided costs based on information from a contractor and presented a proposed work schedule. He requested to amend the motion to increase Family Focus' funding to SI00,000 from $36,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion if the funds are available. Chair Rainey asked for the total application request amount is at this point. Ms. Flax informed them that with Mr. Richmond's amendment. the current grant total is $2,191,346 which is $138,300 above the estimated allocation amount. Aid. Hansen spoke on behalf of the Washington Elementary School PTA and commended their organization and the amount of work and time they have put into this project. She would like to award them the total amount request, however she would at least like to see them awarded half of what they requested. She amended the motion to raise the amount to 54,340 from $3,000, seconded by Chair Rainey. Aid. Bernstein agreed and also commended their persistence with this project. He noted that they also worked the number down to the minimum amount with their requested funding and he recalls the Committee encouraging this group to apply for CDBG funds. Ms. Bumts also agrees with Aid. Hansen and further commends this group for all their volunteer efforts as well. Chair Rainey pointed out that the efforts made by this group and what they are contributing will last in the community for 50-60 years to come resulting in a very long tarn benefit. The vote was 6 in favor of the motion and I voting nay. Motion passed. Ms. Flax informed the Committee that they are now $139,640 above the estimated allocation amount. Chair Rainey asked for staff status of the elevator issue with Family Focus. Ms. Flax responded that they can fund the installation of the elevator in to because that removes the issue of inaccessibility. She noted that funding could be split over multiple years if this is the choice of the Committee. Chair Rainey explained that she did not make an allocation for this project because she does not have the confidence that the balance of the money needed could be raised. Aid. Bemstein concurred because he too is concerned with raising the amount of funds indicated by Family Focus staff due to the economic climate and the financial stress on institutions at this time. fie pointed out that even if the allocation were increased from $36,000 to $100,000, this would still leave Family Focus with an additional amount of $43,000 to raise that year. Aid. Bernstein also noted that the parent group has not come forward to support this project; that there seems to be a lack of participation at that level. He too does not support any allocations for this organization at this time. but noted it was a possibility for next year if more outside funding could be obtained. Aid. Jean -Baptiste explained he only allocated 536,000 because Family Focus requested $36,000 the previous year and the Committee voted to take those funds away. Ms. Flax pointed out that the elevator would bring them the building into ADA Compliance and remove the restriction on using federal funds. It was also noted that Family Focus indicated that they are willing to borrow money if necessary to make up the difference to go forward with the elevator installation. Julie Hamos' office has pledged to try and help secure additional funding for Family Focus toward this effort. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that his main concern is for Family Focus to move forward on becoming ADA compliant and meeting HUD requirements; the CD Committee Mtg. November 11, 2009 Page 5 concern of the organization sitting on the money is secondary in his mind. Chair Rainey expressed her reservations on Family Focus' ability to obtain a loan for the additional amount needed unless they are supported by private funding. Aid. Hansen noted that in her opinion, Family Focus had not shown much effort or commitment towards their fundraising needs in viciv of the amount needed for this project. Mr. Richmond said that he can understand all the concerns stated regarding obtaining the remaining funds, however he was very excited for Family Focus when he received the additional information the Committee requested of them and believes they have shown a good faith effort to move forward at this point. The vote on the amended motion from 536,000 to 5100,000 was 2 in favor and 5 opposed. Motion failed. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that maybe a compromise could be made since Family Focus is in need of compliance with ADA regulations. Chair Rainey clarified that she feels this request is unreasonable due to the cost of this project and the lack of having secured the remaining funding for the project. AId. Bernstein agreed; noting that more needed to be done sooner in the way of securing outside funding. Aid. Hansen referred to the letter from Family Focus which states that in October 2009 they propose that 50% of the work will be completed and at that time they expect to have the additional funding to finish the work. She pointed out that from this statement it seems more like a hope and a prayer that they will have that additional funding a year from now. She noted that Ridgeville Park District came before the Committee last year and presented architects drawings as well as a full cost estimate for the entire project and a schedule. Aid. Hansen said that had not been done with this proposed project; it appears that the entire project is still a big question mark. Aid. Bernstein noted in response to Aid. Jean-Baptiste's statement that the Committee took their past funding back that the funds were lapsed because Family Focus could not use them. Mr. Richmond reiterated that he was pleased when he received all the additional information asked for by the Committee from Family Focus and now the committee was sending a different message. He said if the Committee had requested drawings and a fundraising strategy, Family Focus would have provided this information as well. He is very disappointed that funding allocations are not being considered for this building which is such an important edifice in that neighborhood and community. The motion for funding remained at $36,000. Ms. Flax informed the Committee they are 575,640 over the estimated total available. Chair Rainey spoke in support of the Code Compliance Program and the importance of the inspectors' work to ensuring safe rental housing and exterior maintenance of property. She noted that the application requested $504,137. There has been an increase in foreclosures and boarded up homes, which one inspector has been monitoring. Chair Rainey also reminded the Committee that these funds cover associated costs such as a percentage of the clerical staffs salary that support the inspectors. She estimated that if the minimum that could be allocated for this need is $425,000, Chair Rainey noted that Property Standards Inspectors are paid less than a majority of the positions within the City of Evanston and strongly believes that they do more work than many other positions within the City. In many instances, inspectors are working overtime without pay; one inspector was called out three times in one weekend. She noted that City officials and citizens need to recognize this and that the work they do is for the betterment of every resident of the City of Evanston. She noted that most inspections are in the CDBG Target Area, and that the purpose of receiving CDBG funds is to improve the living conditions in CD Committee Mtg. November I % 2008 Page 6 those neighborhoods. Chair Rainey moved to amend the motion from S375,000 to S425,000 for the Property Standards Code Compliance, the motion was seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Jean -Baptiste questioned the different responsibilities of Property Standards, Code Compliance and Housing Rehab. He noted that close to S I million dollars are allocated for these programs. He noted that he is not suggesting that we don't have the needs within our community to justify what these inspectors do. However the needs that many of these Target Area neighborhoods experience should also be the responsibility of the volunteer groups that live within those areas and he feels that these grants should be spread out more to volunteer groups that do very good work and can participate in the efforts to rehab homes, maintain properties up to code, assist with board -ups, etc. He suggested that more money from the General Fund should cover inspectors' salaries and support staff for this program. Allocating the considerable amount of money towards these City Programs takes away money from some of the neighborhood groups that have little chance of receiving outside funding. Aid. Jean -Baptiste expressed his opposition to an additional $50,000. Chair Rainey stated that the only reason the City sets CDBG Funds is because Evanston has Target Areas and the City is responsible for improving the quality of living in those specific areas, which is a major responsibility of the Code Compliance/Property Standards/Housing Rehab Programs. Ald. Bernstein said that he agrees that other organizations arc worthy of funding, however he has been informed that most other communities do not allocate any CDBG funds to organizations outside the City. Reason being is because there are only so many dollars and the purpose of these CDBG Funds are for the Target Areas to cover services that address the greater good for all citizens. He noted that most outside organizations are requesting funds under the Public Services category not Code Compliance, Public Facilities & Improvements or Economic Development; these are programs that are done primarily by the City. Chair Rainey said that Code Compliance cannot be done by a not -for - profit organization, neighborhood group or volunteers; experienced City staff who are able to go in and enforce the City's Housing Codes are responsible and they need sufficient funds to pay those inspectors. She added that she does not see a better or more important way to spend CDBG funds over supporting this program. The vote was 4 in favor and 3 against; the motion passed. Ms. Flax informed the Committee that with Aid. Rainey's amendment to Code Compliance, they are now $125.640 over the total estimated available funding. Chair Rainey asked for a vote on Aid. Jean-Baptiste's motion including all the amendments made thus far. The vote was 6 in favor and 1 against. At this point, Chair Rainey asked the Committee for recommendations for line item cuts. INis. Burrus moved to reduce the Foster Field Renovation from S40,000 to S25,000. She suggests this reduction based on an earlier discussion that this project can be completed in phases over several years. She wanted to make it clear that she thinks this is a great project, however she believes more outside funds could be obtained and, because the project can be done in stages, there is less immediate need since it is not related to housing or feeding any citizens. Ms. Breen seconded the motion and the vote was 4 in favor and 3 voting against. Motion passed. CD Committee Mtg. November 11.2008 Page 7 Ms. Breen moved to remove the S36,000 allocation for the elevator installation at Family Focus; Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Ms. Breen encouraged the representatives of Family Focus to raise the additional funds needed and then come back to the Committee for CDBG funds. The vote was 5 in favor and 2 voting nay. Motion passed. With the last two reductions. the amount to be cut is $74,640. Ms. Burrus moved to reduce ECDC from S46,098 to S25,000. She made this motion because ECDC is getting more than half of their request, which is more than the majority of outside applications were receiving. Chair Rainey seconded the motion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that this is another example of where the Committee needs to look at allocations in the context of available funds, He reiterated that the committee needs to find away to continue to support initiatives such as Evanston Community Development Corporation. Economic development within the Target Area is the main function of this group which has made a significant difference in the heart of the Church- Dodge neighborhood. ECDC has worked in many ways to assist the development of small businesses within that community. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stressed they need to invest more in economic development of Target Areas and in merchant associations. He said to reduce the Allocation by the proposed amount would probably create a problem for this program. Therefore, Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a counter motion to atlacate S35,000 to ECDC, seconded by Aid. Bernstein. The vote was 3 in favor of the motion and 4 against. Motion failed. The vote on the amendment to reduce ECDC's funding to S25,000 was passed with 4 voting in favor of the motion and 3 voting nay. Ms. Flax informed the Committee that they are now only $53,542 over the estimated funding amount. Aid. Hansen moved to reduce Code Compliance -Board Up & Clean Up from S30,000 to $20,000. She explained that this program received only $7,000 last year and is now risking for $30,000; $20,000 will be more than double what they received the previous year. Chair Rainey called on Jeff Murphy, Asst. Director of Property Standards & Housing Rehab and reminded Aid. Hansen of the constant bills that come before A&PW for board ups. Mr. Murphy informed the Committee that they have paid over $17,500 in board up fees so far this year. There are currently over 80 vacant properties in Evanston and he estimated there would be 27-30 more properties boarded by the end of the fiscal year. bringing the total cost to around $27,000 for the fiscal year. Staff is requesting S30.000 for next year because he estimated at least this same number if not more next year. the program also covers the cost of grounds maintenance of vacant properties when the City has to cut the grass, remove weeds and debris. etc. Aid. Hansen asked if the City puts liens on these properties. Mr. Murphy responded that they do, however it takes forever to collect this money; the City usually does not get repaid until the property is sold or transfers ownership. The majority of total board ups, 90%, are in the CDBG Target Area. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if funds from Housing Rehab can be used for this program. Ms. Flax responded that Housing Rehab Administration covers primarily the salaries of the people who deliver that program. She also noted that HUD dollars are used for board ups only if the property is in the CDBG Target Area. Mr. Murphy said that they are receiving many referrals i CD Committee Mtg. November 11, 2008 Page 8 from the Police Department to board vacant properties to deter squatters, break-ins and similar activities. He said that this is becoming a big responsibility for the Property Standards Division. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if other Housing Rehab or demolition funds can be used for this program. Mr. Murphy responded that they cannot use funds from other accounts for board -ups. Ms. Flax noted that these costs had previously been under Demolition, however HUD will not allow use of those funds for board -up or clean-up, so a separate program and account is needed. Aid. Jean -Baptiste maintained that the cost of board -ups should come out of the General Fund. The motion was approved with 4 voting in favor and 3 voting against. Aid. Hansen moved to reduce CEDA/Neighbors At Work from S122,000 to S100,000; Ms. Burrus seconded the motion. Aid. Hanses noted that this organization has not used all their funds in the past and the reduction seems reasonable if they still have funds to roll over from last year. Ms. Flax informed the Committee that CEDA/Neighbors At Work had approximately $38,000 from last year at the start of this fiscal year. The motion was passed with 7 voting in favor. Ms. Flax noted that they are still over budget by $21,542. Ms. Breen proposed a motion to cut the Foster Field renovation funding altogether this year, seconded by Chair Rainey. With no discussion, the vote was 2 in favor of the motion and 5 against. Motion Failed. Aid. Hansen moved to reduce the Alley Paving Program from S100,000 to S89,279, seconded by Ms. Breen. She noted that this would this reduction would be half of the S21,542 overage. Sat Nagar, City Senior Engineer, commented that staff would be able to work with that level of funding. The vote was 7-0 in favor of the motion. Ms. Flax informed the Committee that they are S10,771 over budget. Aid. Hansen suggested taking the remaining S10,771 from Code Compliance, seconded by Isis. Breen. This would bring the allocation for Code Compliance to $414.229. The vote was 7- 0 in favor of the motion. Ms. Flax stated that the Committee's allocations matched the estimated available funding. Aid. Jean -Baptiste spoke on behalf of the M/W/EBE Program and asked that the committee reconsider allocating funds for this program. He stressed the importance of the program and how the City needs to send a message of support to the minority contractors and acknowledge that their issues are being addressed. He noted that mane of the larger construction contractors do not always comply with requirements and that expecting other staff to be responsible for ensuring that M/W/EBE requirements are met is not the best use of staff resources. Aid. Hansen contended that the M/W/EBE and Local Employment Initiative should not be the sole responsibility of one individual, that it should be the responsibility of all City staff involved in the bidding process and who follow the projects through completion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to allocate S40,000 to the M/W/EBE Program and reduce the CDBG Administration 4 CD Committee Mtg. November 11, 2008 Page 9 allocation by this amount. After more debate, the vote was 5 in favor of the motion and 2 against. Final Motion and Vote on the CDBG Program Allocations Ms. Flax read each CDBG funding allocation for all the applications. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the final CDBG Program Allocations, Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. IV. CITIZEN/STAFF COMMENT Ms. Joan Raisner addressed the Committee and asked them to reconsider funding the mediation portion of the AIternative Dispute Resolution & Advocacy Services under the Human Relations Commission. She pointed out the importance of mediation services and that it would assist clients primarily within the CDBG Target Area. She feels this is much more important than paving an alley or than many other public facilities and improvements since it directly assists the citizens of our community. Chair Rainey responded that the Human Services Department should propose this position in their budget to be covered from the General Fund; CDBG funds should not be used to cover the cost of re -opening a job vacancy. Ms. Raisner noted that their application is the only `new' application that received absolutely no funding. V. ADJOURNMENT With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:24 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jacqueline E. Brownlee APPROVED HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, December 16, 2008 MEMBERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Hansen Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Acting Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUIiI Aid Jean -Baptiste called the meeting to order at 7:45pm. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 21 & 28 MEETINGS There was not a quorum, so minutes were not approved. [if. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2009/10 ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN AND 2009/10 CDBG BUDGET Two people were present and provided input on the One Year Action Plan: Paul Selden, Executive Director, Connections for the Homeless, raised concern that the focus for affordable housing in the Action Plan is on households with incomes near 80% of area median and that lower income households were not receiving enough attention or help. He noted that Families In Transition is the only program that addresses needs of households at or below 40% ANI1 and that programs focused on home oAmership do not address the needs of very low income households. Mr. Selden also referenced the Chicago 2020 housing study that identified issues that impact the availability of affordable housing, including housing density, and noted that Evanston's policies should be considered. Mr. Selden noted that rent subsidy programs can be one of the most effective ways of addressing housing needs of very low income HHs. He would like to see Connections get other sources of funding for homeless services so that more [IUD funds could be used for rent subsidies. He also noted that the number of Housing Choice vouchers used in Evanston has declined steadily in recent years due to conversions of rental properties to condos, HUD not offering vouchers to new 1-11-Is to replace those lost through attrition and the perception that housing is more affordable in other communities. including Skokie. Mr. Selden also talked about the importance of Connections' Prevention Program that provides funds to families at risk of losing their housing because of inability to pay mortgage/rent or utilities. Aid. Hansen and Aid Jean -Baptiste both noted that the City Council and staff are concerned that affordable units the City has helped fund are not selling and acknowledged that additional strategies need to be developed. Affordable housing is one of the topics on the Council agenda at its January 2009 meeting and they invited Mr. Scldcn to address the City Council. The Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting minutes. 12/16/08 Page I fj recently formed Affordable Housing Task Force, created to address housing issues, resulted from the need to develop additional strategies to address market and economic changes. Aid Jean -Baptiste asked for more information on how people find out about Connections' Prevention Program. Mr. Sclden described their many links with non -profits, religious organizations and City staff. Staff will get information from Connections to put in the City e- newsletter, etc., to help publicize the program to Evanston residents. Elizabeth Gordon, Director of Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services, part of the North Shore Senior Center, voiced agreement with Mr. Selden's comments. She noted that many Evanston seniors that they serve are very low income and live on fixed incomes. ESVSS works to keep seniors age in place and also with transition planning, such as betting on wait lists for facilities with supportive services, as their needs change. Rising rents and utilities are becoming a bigger challenge for them and their program can offer financial help for those items on a one-time basis only. She noted that some clients may be eligible for help through Connections Prevention Program and would work with that agency. Aid Jean -Baptiste thanked Mr. Selden and Ms. Gordon for their input and closed public comment on the Action Plan. IV. 2008/09 CDBG PROGRAM UPDATES Fagade Improvement Staff presented an application for FaVade Improvement funds from William Holloway for the building at 1800 Dempster St. and reviewed photos of the facility and drawings of planned improvements to the fagade. Staff noted that Mr. Holloway has been meeting with neighbors and been responsive to their input. He will be at Site Plan and Appearance Committee on 12/17, Staff recommends allocating $30,000 in Favade funds for the project and will forward information to members of the committee who were not at the meeting with a strong recommendation from Aids. Jean -Baptiste and Hansen and staff and request their approval. Emergency Needs Staff presented emergency roof repair needs of two Evanston child care providers that serve primarily LMI families, Reba Early Learning Center and Toddler Town Daycare, conditions that did not exist when applications for CDBG funds were due, and requested that they be considered for funding because of their emergency nature. Staff noted that Aid. Rainey is aware of the need by Toddler Town and referred that organization to staff to determine if ho%v CDBG can help. Staff recommended granting CDBG funds for up to 80% of the emergency project cost, but no more than $7,000 for Reba and S 12,000 for Toddler Town (based on the organizations' preliminary cost estimates). 80% was arrived at based on % of CDBG funds allocated to other child care providers recently, so consistent with prior funding decisions. Although all anticipated 2009/10 entitlement funds were allocated in the 11/)1/08 meeting, these projects can be funded by using program income (the estimate used for 2009/10 has already been achieved) and unspent funds from projects being closed out that normally would be reallocated in the upcoming fiscal year. (Over $50,000 has been reallocated in each of the last two years.) Aids. Jean -Baptiste and Hansen agreed that these projects should be funded as proposed, Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting minutes, 12/16/08 Page 2 I=MW pending committee approval. Staff will forward information to members of the committee who were not at the meeting for their consideration, the requests will be on the next CD Committee meeting agenda. Alley Special Assessment Assistance Staff' provided information on four property owners who have made one or more payments on their alley special assessment but contacted the City about their inability to make the current payment due to changed financial circumstances. Staff proposed that the remaining principal on their assessments be paid from the Alley Special Assessment Assistance fund pending updated documentation of financial eligibility for each household. Property owners would be responsible for paying the interest, as CDBG funds cannot be used to pay interest or penalties. Alds. Jean -Baptiste and Hansen agreed that these needs were consistent with hardship cased funded in the past and that the remaining principal on the assessments should be paid from the Alley Special Assessment Assistance program pending documentation of eligibility. V. CITIZENISTAFF COMMENT There was no additional citizen or staff comment. VI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax, CDBG Administrator Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting minutes, 12/16109 Page 3 0 APPRVO HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES OF PUBLIC MEETING Tuesday, December 18, 2007 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Sarah Breen, Coleen Burrus, Aid. Hansen, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Flax I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM There being a quorum, Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm and asked staff for an update on 1817 Church Street and Family Focus. Staff reported the locks have been changed following the City's recovery of the property on October 26. Two break-ins had occurred; the motive appeared to be seeking shelter. The rear doors/windows on the second and third floors have been reinforced and Facilities Maintenance was assessing other repair or maintenance needs. The City's plan to use remaining funds from the grant to EWCDC to maintain the property until its disposition to another organization to fulfill the objective of opening a Black American museum/cultural center had been included in the One Year Action Plan. Any funds above those needs would be allocated to the AIley Special Assessment Assistance program. As projected in May, that program is over budget. To date, assessments of qualified applicants total over $62.000 vs. budgeted funds of $40,000. Assessment notices haven't been sent to property owners on one alley, so that may increase. Staff reported that plans to install an inclined platform lift that is compliant with ADA requirements are not be feasible because to meet Illinois Accessibility requirements, the lift must have a 48" long platform. A platform of this size will reduce the stairway width to about 31" when open, violating building code requirements for a minimum of 36" to accommodate 50 or fewer people. (This was corroborated by Jim Hagy, Family Focus board member.) Because the Voluntary Compliance Agreement drafted by HUD is based on installing such a lilt, a new agreement will have to be drafted. The HUD representative handling this issue is out of the office until January; staff will communicate these findings to him upon his return. As noted in the 2008/09 Action Plan. CDBG funds allocated to Family Focus will continue to be held by the City pending resolution of this complaint. II. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2008/09 ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN AND 2008/09 CDBG BUDGET Aid. Rainey opened the public hearing on the One Year Action I'lan. noting that seeking community input is a requirement of the CDBG program and that all input would be addressed in the Action Plan prior to its submission to City Council for adoption at its meeting on January 14, and to MUD on January 15, 2008. Staff reviewed the sign -in sheet and noted that no one indicated they wished to make a comment. Aid. Rainey encouraged those in attendance to provide their input. Robert Roy, Executive Director, Evanston Community Defender Office, thanked the Committee for including Iegal and social work services among the recommended allocations, Housing & Community Development Act Committee Meeting Minutes Page 2 December 18, 2007 noting that this includes the Legal Assistance Foundation as well as his agency. Mr. Roy said that life circumstances that require legal counsel can be daunting and that CD13G finding makes this help available to people of limited means at a critical moment in their lives, often enabling them to make changes they otherwise might not have the capacity to do. I le said that just because you are poor doesn't mean you are impoverished but sometimes it is difficult for people to see their cup as half full when they are faced with challenging circumstances. He read a note that they include with toys distributed to their clients at the holidays, "Yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery; today is a gift and that's why we call it the present." Mr. Roy continued, saying that the work that you (the CD Committee) do with the allocations in the Public Services category is a gift to the people in this community who arc not impoverished but are financially unable to get the kind of help you fund to give to them. Aid. Rainey thanked Mr. Roy and reiterated the value the CD Committee places on the Evanston Community Defender Office's work. Aid. Rainey asked if any others wanted to speak, there were none. Staff noted that three items received in writing and included in committee members' packages would be entered as public comment. 1. Pat Vance, Executive Director of CEDA, recognizing the importance of continuing to address the need for affordable housing in Evanston and acknowledging the Committee's recognition of that need in their funding decisions. 2. The McGaw YMCA thanked the Committee for additional funding to repair the passenger elevator that serves its 172-room men's residence facility. 3. Organization Latina de Evanston (OLE) wrote in support of the Technology Innovation Center's Evanston Business Ownership program to help start-ups and small businesses get loans. Staff noted that the public comment period on the 2008/09 One Year Action Plan and CDBG budget would remain open through January 4, 2008 and that any additional input received would be included in that plan. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 13, 2007 MEETING Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the minutes, Aid. Hansen seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. Committee members recognized Bobbie Newman, noting that the minutes were very detailed and accurately recounted their discussion. tv, CITIZEN/STAFF COMMENT Staff reported that HUD's 2008 budget, including CDBG, still had not been appropriated by Congress. If the omnibus bill currently being considered is passed, the City's entitlement grant was expected to be approximately 3% lower than the estimate used for budgeting. If the omnibus bill is not passed, I -IUD could be funded under a continuing resolution as in 2007. V. APPROVAL OF THE 2008109 ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved that the 2008/09 One Year Action Plan and CDBG Budget be recommended to the City Council for adoption at its January 14, 2008 meeting. The Inotion was seconded by Aid. I Jansen and approved unanimously. VI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm. Respectfully submitted, Sarah K. Flax