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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2001-2005I., MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for January 2001 has been canceled The next meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for February 20, 2001 at 7:30 p nL in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, February 20, 2001 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Drummer, Ald. Rainey, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally L.u&in, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: None PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Drummer, Chair L CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Drummer called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m., a quorum being present. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 112, 2000 MEETING Ald. Rainey made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's December 12, 2000 meeting; the motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. The minutes were approved, 4-0. III. COMMUNICATIONS A. Evanston Housing Commission — Minutes of January 19, 2001 Meeting B. Home Sales Prices 1999 v. 2000 (prepared by Roberta Schur) C. E-mail Message from Maureen Thurman (City's HUD Representative) Re: 2000 Census Data D. News Articles - Stress Tests -- As the number of associations grow, fresh headaches arise - Rental Squeeze — For families in the middle, lack of housing affords few answers - Easy Marks — San Francisco plan would let renters buy their units or stay as tenants - Cuts on area sprawl sought by lawmakers - NW Side group aims at predatory lending - New Home help given fresh start to women - Bush fleshes out details of proposal to expand aid to religious organizations Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 20, 2001 Page 2 Accepted into the record by Aid. Drummer. IV. RESCISSION OF FY 2001/02 CDRG FUNDS Sally Lufkin discussed the decision by the United States Congress to reduce all FY 2001 federal discretionary funding in .22% and the resulting reduction of Evanston's 2001 CDBG funds by $5,000. Ms. Lufkin said that any reduction in CDBG funding meant that the Committee would have to reduce funding in the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories, because of their 200/6 and 15% caps, respectively, on funding in those two categories. She said that the Public Services category would have to be reduced by $750 and the Administration/Planning category by $1,000, Ms. Lufkin also discussed the status of program income received for the Revolving Loan program during the 2000/01 program year. She said that staff had estimated that the City would received $125,000 in program income during FY 2000/01 and that, to date, the City had received $115,000. She pointed out that the amount of program income received during 2000/01 was used in the calculation of the Public Services cap for FY 2001/02. With approximately ten days remaining in the 2000/01 year, Ms. Lufkin said that she was not hopeful that the City would receive $10,000 and meet the program income estimate for the year. As a result, the Public Services cap for FY 2001/02 was recalculated using $115,000 in estimated program income v. $125,000, resulting in the necessity to reduce the Public Services category by $2,250. Ms. Lufkin said that Budget Analyst Nicki Modaber calculated the percentage of the total amount of Public Services funds each Public Service's grantee had been awarded and prepared a spread sheet showing proposed, proportionate reductions of each grantees' 2001/02 funding, as has been done in past years when the Committee had to reduce funding in the Public Services category. Ms. Lufkin said that should the Committee decide to reduce the Public Services category by $2,250, it would still need to reduce 2001/02 funding by and additional S2,750, with at least $1,000 of that reduction coming from the Administration/Planning category. Ms. Lufkin said that she was recommending that construction projects' allocations not be reduced and that the remaining reductions come from the six administrative budgets for City sponsored programs: CDBG Administration, Fair Housing program, M/W/EBE program, Community Development Administration, Housing Rehab Administration and Housing Code Compliance. She said that Neki Modaber calculated proportionate reductions of these six program budgets in the same manner as the Public Services category projects. The proposed reductions would mean that the Administration/Planning category would be reduced by $1,335 and the Housing category by $1,415, for a total reduction of 52,750. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 20, 2001 Page 3 Ald. Rainey made a motion to approve the funding recommendations as proposed by staff. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 4-0. There was discussion about the reasons for less program income being received for the Revolving Loan fund than in previous years. Ms. Lufkin said that it was her understanding that a majority of the loans in recent years had been title transfer, single family loans, which are not paid until the property is sold. In addition, many of those loans have been made to senior citizens living on fixed incomes. Aid. Rainey asked for a report on the status of the City's revolving loan portfolio: the number of loans, number of title transfer loans and number of amortizing loans. She said she was also interested in knowing how many loans are in default and what the City's procedures are for collecting on past due loans. V. AUTHORIZATION TO USE CDBG UNPROGRAMMED FUNDS TOWARD MINOR CDRG PROGRAM COST OVERRUNS Ms. Lufkin discussed a memorandum from Nicki Modaber in which she requested that the Committee approve staffs use of up to $100 in Project Contingency (ULO) funds to cover small project cost overruns. Ms. Modaber would like to reallocate the funds for two or three projects which have cost overruns in amounts such as $12 and $38. Ald. Rainey suggested that the Committee approve staWs use of up to $1,000 in Project Contingency funds for project cost overruns and report back to the Committee on how those funds were used. Judith Treadway made a motion to reallocate up to $1,000 in Project Contingency (ULO) funds to cover individual project cost overruns. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 4-0. VL STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT There was no stafflcitizen comment. VIIL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m. SStaff; - [J Date: March 15.2001 HOUSING AND CONDIUNT1`ll DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, March 20, 2001 7:30 P.M. - Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Drummer, Ald. Rainey, Ald. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Judith Treadway STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Departnxsrt OTHERS PRESENT: James Wolinski, Community Development Department; Anna Boekstegen, Yvonne Vanden Avenne, Carmen Frost, Ferdinand Frost, Christine Benn, Southeast Evanston Citizens Planning Committee PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Drummer, Chair L CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Drummer called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 12, 2000 MEETING David Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's February 20, 2001 meeting; the motion was seconded by Ald. Kent. The minutes wem approved, 6-0. III. COMMUNICATIONS A NCDA (National Community Development Association) Washington Report for March 2, 2001 (partial) B. Illrnais Community Development, Winter 2001, published by the Statewide Hous* Action Coalition C. Evanston/Skokie Action Services - Announcements D. Newspaper Articles - Apartment dwellers can rent to own in Denver - Tight squeeze - Elgin Oks rules for inspections despite housing complaints - Protests prompt Oriand to write land -use booklet - Side by Side - San Francisco plan would let renters buy their units or stay as tenants - East marks - Senate staff finds federal agencies in dark on predatory lending - City hoping for increase in affordable housing units - Financial incentives aimed at developers Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 20, 2001 Page 2 Curb on area sprawl sought by lawmakers - NW Side growp aims at predatory lending - Continental flair — Europe may be the model for better senior neighborhoods - Short circuit — Board zaps affordable housing requirement for Lake County - Stepping back -- To extend its housing boom, Philadelphia lowers some fees Accepted into the record by Aid. Drummer. E. Housing Rehabilitation — Revolving Loan Portfolio Status Jim Wolinski discussed a memorandum on the status of the revolving loan portfolio. He said that of the 109 loans outstanding, 38 are amortizing loans totaling S862,287 and 71 are title transfer loans totaling $1,510,130. Less than one-third of the loans are behind in payment. Twelve loans are in arrears, representing a total amount of $8,206. Nine of those loans are 90 days or less behind in payments. With the additional funding allocated to the revolving loan program, Mr. Wolinski said that there should be $350,000 - $400,000 available for rehab loans. Mr. Wolinski said that the City used to offer reducing loans to senior citizens, where the amount of money owed to the City is reduced each year. if the property owner continues to live in the property for five years, the loan is converted to a grant. This type of loan was discontinued because many of the single family rehab loans have been to senior citizens and the revolving loan program was not receiving a level of loan repayments to help sustain the revolving loan program. Mr. Wolinski said that the majority of loans are title transfer loans, which means that the money is paid back to the City at the time the property is sold. Many of the title transfer loans are to senior citizens who have lived in Evanston a long time and repayment usually occurs upon the death of the property owner(s). Aid. Rainey wondered if CDBG program regulations would allow rehab loans to be made to condominium owners. She said that some lower income persons purchase condominium units, which are more affordable than the purchase of a single family home. She added that with condominium units, the turnover is usually quicker than with single-family homes so the City would receive repayment to the loan fund more quickly as well. Mr. Wolinski said he would look into possible expansion of the loan program to condominium units. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 20, 2001 Page 3 IV. REQUEST TO USE NEIGHBORHOOD PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT FUNDS FOR PURCHASE OF A SECURITY CAMERA FOR THE SlIMPSONIDEWEY NEIGHBORHOOD Jim Wolinski said that he and the Police Department wanted to request that this item be removed from the agenda. Ald. Kent said that he would like to have a security camera installed in either the Dewey/Simpson or Church/Dodge intersections, but would first like to provide the community with an opportunity to consider the matter and obtain neighborhood consensus. Ald. Drummer suggested that the Committee could approve funding for the purchase of the camera at this time and then, after community meetings had been held, the purchase of the camera could proceed without additional delay. Ala. Kent said that he supports the project, but would like the Committee to defer consideration of funding for the camera until a later date. He added that it is his hope that when this matter is discussed by the Committee, there will be community representation in support of the proposal. Md. Rainey offered to have some of the people in the Howard St. areas particularly merchants, provide input on their experience with the Howard/Custer secunty camera at Ald. Kent s community meetings. Ald. Drummer concluded the discussion, saying that the security camera is a project the Committee would like to support and will look forward to ibis matter coming before the Committee at an upcoming meeting. V. REQUEST FOR S500 IN NEIGHBORHOOD PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT FUNDS FOR THE PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT PLANTERS FOR THE CUSTER AVENUE BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT Sally Lufkin discussed the memorandum from the Southeast Evanston Community Garden Club steeringg committee, in which the committee requested that the garden club be approved to use $500 in Neighborhood Public Improvement funds for the purchase of ten planters at a cost of S48 per planter. She said that when the Custer Street beautification pro ect started a couple of years ago, 44 planters were purchased. Since that time, ten of toe planters have either been destroyed or stolen and the club would like to purchase replacement planters. The Garden Club received $380 as a result of a recent fund raising solicitation tter. The club plans to use those funds, combiners with other funds on hand (total of approximately $700), to purchase plant materials and soil. However, the club does not have sufficient funds on hand to purchase both the plant materials and the ten replacement planters and requests funding assistance from the Neighborhood Public Improvement fund for the purchase of the replacement planters. Ald. Drummer acknowledged a communication from Committee member Judith Treadway in support of the garden club's request Ald. Rainey made a motion to approve the allocation of $500 in Neighborhood Public Improvement funds for the purchase of ten replacement planters. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 6-0. VL STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT David Schoenfeld asked whether the new census data for Evanston will affect the amount of CDBG funds the City will receive for FY 2002/03. Ms. Lufkin said that it is difficult to determine what the changes in the funding formula will be. She said that income information has not yet been released and will not be available until later in the year or Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- March 20, 2001 Page 4 early 2002. She said that the CDBG funding formula is composed of several facttors, including level of poverty in a community and the age and condition of the Dousing stock She said that she thought that the 2002 CDBG funding request was for the same amount as approved by Congress in 2001. For 2001, Congress funded the CDBG program at over $5 billion, a record level. Low/moderate income information, which is provided to communities by HUD and used is determining the CDBG Target Area, will not be ' available unid 2003. VIIL AWOURN TENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at'8:10 p.m. Staff ".., Date: April 12, 2001 MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for April 2001 has been canceled The nev meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for May 15, 2001 at 7:30 p.n. in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. ROUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMTI"I'EE MINUTES Tuesday, May 15, 2001 7.30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department; Nicki Modaber, Office of Management & Budget OTHERS PRESENT: James Wolinski, Community Development Depam gent; Chief Frank Kaminski, Police Department; Betty Sue Ester PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. EL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 20, 2001 MEETING Aid. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's March 20, 2001 meeting; the motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Judith Treadway asked that the minutes be amended to include reference to the memorandum she sent to the Committee in her absence, in which she was in support of the purchase of a security camera for the Dewey/Simpson neighborhood. The minutes were approved, as amended, 5-0. III. COMMUNICATIONS A. Updated Committee Membership List B. Letter from Housing Options Announcing Appointment of New Executive Director C. Interfaith Open Communities — Legislative Update D. Metropolitan Planning Council — Employer -Assisted Housing 3`d Quarter Update E. New York Times Article — Philadelphia's Mayor Seeks to Expand City's Revival Accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May IS, 2001 Page 2 IV. PUBLIC HEARLNG ON CONSOLIDATED PLAN ANNUAL PERFORMANCE REPORT FOR FY 2000/01 A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing B. Staff Comments C. Public Hearing Sally Lufkin and Nicki Modaber discussed the contents of the Consolidated Plan Annual Performance Report (CAPER). The CAPER covers City expenditures of HUD CDBG, HOME and ESG (Emergency Shelter Grant) funds during the 2000/01 fiscal year (March 1, 2000 — February 28, 2001). Ms. Modaber discussed the CDBG expenditures: the City had $5,024,984 in CDBG funds available at the beginning of the fiscal year, which included S2,750,633 in unspent funds at the end of the previous fiscal year (2/29100), plus $2,351,000 in 2000/01 entitlement funds, and 5134,651 in program income. CDBG funds were obligated for 54 projects and expenditures for the fiscal year totaling $2,272,933. Expenditures for Administration/ Planning projects were $432,380 or 17.401/6 of funds expended (within the 20% cap on administration/planning projects). Public Services expenditures were 5368,394, or 14.46% of funds expended (within 15% cap on public services expenditures). In addition to CDBG expenditures, the City also committed $214,154 in HOME funds toward 4 projects and spent 581,710 in ESG funds on 3 projects. Ald. Rainey opened the Public Hearing at 8:30 p.m. Betty Sue Ester expressed her disappointment that there were no projects or expenditures of funds for credit counseling services and asked whether the Committee was planning to help low/moderate income persons with credit counseling education. She also commented on the Lincoln School playground project, completed by School District 65 last summer. Ms. Ester said that she was not in support of the manner in which CDBG funds were allocated to assist School District 65 in refurbishing its playgrounds. There being no other comments, Ald. Rainey closed the public hearing at 8:40 p.m. Ald. Bernstein made a motion to approve the Consolidated Plan Annual Performance Report for FY 2000/01 and to forward it to the City Council for its approval. The motion was seconded by Judith Treadway. Motion carried, 7-0. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 20, 2001 Page 3 V. REQUEST TO USE NEIGHBORHOOD PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT FUNDS FOR PURCHASE OF A SECURITY CAMERA FOR THE SIMPSON/DEWEY NEIGHBORHOOD This matter was held over from the Committee's March meeting. Ald. Kent made a motion to approve the purchase of a security camera and monitoring equipment for the Dewey/Simpson intersection. The motion was seconded by Ald_ Bernstein. Aid. Kent said that he was also exploring the possibility of installing a second security camera at the intersection of Church/Dodge with the monitoring equipment housed at Evanston Township High School. He said that he planned to discuss this matter at the next meeting of the City -School Liaison Committee, with the hope that the high school would participate in the purchase of the camera and equipment. This camera would be in addition to the one proposed for the Dewey/Simpson intersection. Each camera and monitoring equipment costs approximately S15,000. Aid. Kent said that the City can order the camera and equipment for Dewey/Simpson, but would like to hold installation of the equipment until he had met with the City -School Liaison Committee, discussed his proposal for Church/Dodge and had a decision (either yes or no) on installation of a camera at that intersection. It was suggested that Aid. Kent may also want to approach a group known as the New Evanston Alliance to see if they could possibly participate in the purchase of the Church//Dodge camera. Motion carried, 6-1. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT There was no additional staff/citizen comment. VIL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meting adjourned at 9:08 p.m. Staff: � Date: June 12, 2001 MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for June 2001 has been canceled The nexi meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for July 17, 2001 at 7:30 p.m. in Room 1403 in the Civic Center. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINL-I'ES Tuesday, July 17, 2001 7:30 P.M. - Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Kent, Ald. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Horace Payne STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Eve Bonnet; Grail Schechter, Sherrill Frost Brown, Sue Carlson, Interfaith Housing Center; Gigi Vaughn; Terry Wynn II; Delores A. Holmes, Family Focus; George Providence II; Mary E. Lane; Phoebe Novak; Karen Chavers, Sandra Terry, Evanston Neighborhood Conference; Sandra Johnson, North Shore Senior Center; Betty Sue Ester Renee Spruill; Pamela Hickman; Morris (Dino) Robinson; Helen Roberts -Evans, Child Care Center, Richard Tholin; Michael Phillips PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 15„ 2001 MEETING Aid. Kent made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's May 15, 2001 meeting; the motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. The minutes were approved, 5-0. III. PUBLIC HEARING ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NEEDS FOR THE 2002103 CDBG PROGRAM A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing B. Letter from BEHIV C. Needs Hearing - Public Comment Ald. Rainey opened the Public Hearing at 7.41 p.m., stating that the main purpose of the hearing was for the Committee to receive comment from the community about community development needs in Evanston and how CDBG funds could be used'tp address those needs. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page 2 Eve Bonnet — Ms. Bonnet addressed the Committee about affordable housing in Evanston. She said that she has been a 37 year resident in Evanston and is a single mother with two children, Over the last nine years, Ms. Bonnet has had a hard time finding an affordable place to live. She said that recently she had been on the search for housing and learned that the average rent for a 3 bedroom apartment is $1,600 a month. In order to be able to pay 51,600 a month, she said that a family would have to earn 576,000 a year, which is difficult to do with one income. Ms. Bonnet said that there are a lot of people like her who live in Evanston and are in a similar position. She asked that the City consider all of its residents, not just the elite crowd (in housing policy decisions). Housing needs to be affordable for everyone who wants to live in Evanston. Ms. Bonnet urged more support for citizens versus support for developers. She said that the City needs to look for other streams of revenue besides the property tax because higher taxes are increasing the cost of housing. Ms. Bonnet suggested that the City investigate other successful models in other nearby cities, such as Skokie. She said that Skokie provides more housing services than are offered in Evanston. She suggested that the Committee also focus on ways to bring businesses (and revenues) into Evanston, instead of "driving" businesses out. Ald. Rainey said that the City's Community Development Department did win an award from HUD for the affordable housing project at 124 Clyde, a totally dilapidated building which was rehabbed into condominium units, which were sold for low/moderate income families. Ms. Bonnet i eplied that the whole block of Clyde is condos. Aid. Rainey said that the Committee was looking at the nature of those conversions and trying to understand why the conversions happened. She said that a 3 bedroom unit that rents for $1,600 a month would cost 52,400 a month to rent if an investor purchased the building and rehabbed it. Ald. Rainey asked whether Ms. Bonnet thought it would be helpful for the City to have a licensing program for landlords so that if a landlord has a bad unit, that unit could be shut down and the landlord prevented from renting it until it is brought up to City code. Ms. Bonnet said that she would be in support of such a program. Aid. Kent said that affordable housing has troubled the Committee for a long time. He discussed different programs which might help people purchasing housing, depending upon one's salary, holder of a Section 8 certificate, etc. He asked Ms. Bonnet whether money down for a home purchase is a big hurdle for people. Ms. Bonnet replied that two things affect some person's/families' ability to purchase housing: if one does not have much money, a person's credit seems to be damaged. If you do not have enough money to make ends meet, then you may not be able to pay all your bills, even though you would like to. If housing costs more than one-half of your monthly income, then you struggle to pay for everything else. Down payment tends to be an issue. Ms. Bonnet said that she once was qualified for a Section 8 certificate, but could never use it because there was a Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 3 limited time to use a certificate and she could not find anyone who would accept the certificate. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Bonnet whether it would be helpful to have a law in Evanston that would require no discrimination based on source of income, such as a Section 8 certificate. Ms. Bonnet said that she thought such a law would be helpful. She said that a lot of landlords do not want to rent to single mothers; they have various ways to disqualify people over the phone, before people get to we the unit. Aid. Rainey asked whether having a tenant ombudsman in City Hall would be helpful to tenants seeking housing in Evanston. That person could pre-screen vacancies and serve as a front person for tenants. Additional discussion ensued regarding different kinds of tenants, circumstances and the past experiences of landlords who are wary of some tenant populations. The cost per unit of renovating housing units with and without subsidies, was discussed. Where does one get the money to write down the cost of affordable' housing? Judith Treadway noted that there are currently two or three non-profit organizations which are trying to develop affordable housing in Evanston. She asked what the City could do to assist people, who really want to remain in Evanston, find affordable housing units. Ald. Rainey closed this discussion by expressing the hope that some of the housing groups will come to the Committee with recommendations on housing policy and programs. She noted that the City receives over $2 million in CDBG funds each year. _Q&iL$chechter. interfaith Housinu Center of the Northern Suburbs Ms. Schechter commented that Interfaith Housing Center works in partnership with a lot of the groups represented at the Public Hearing. She introduced Sue Carlson from the Homesharing program and Sherrill Frost Brown, fair housing coordinator for Interfaith. Ms. Schechter said that Interfaith has facilitated over 70 matches in Evanston over the past 3-1/2 years at a cost of less than S75,000 (in CDBG funds). In reality, affordable housing in Evanston was created for 140 households through the Homesharing program. Ms. Schechter said that Interfaith works in partnership with other housing groups in Evanston on predatory lending and Section 8 issues, and is looking for creative avenues to meet the community's emergency housing needs. Ms. Schechter said that interfaith also works with the faith community in its advocacy work. Ms. Schechter said that one of the things which is so glaring in Evanston is that there is a dual housing market — a proliferation of new, luxury condos, which have been funded by the City with millions of dollars. She said that City policy is allowing this type of new housing development. Ms. Schechter said that there does not appear to be a policy or vision expressed by the City on the way it would like housing development to take place. At the same time, there are payday loan stores in Evanston, such as the new currency Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 4 exchange on Green Bay Road. Coupled with predatory loans (Evanston had 3 foreclosures in 1993; about 80 foreclosures in 1999), low income residents are being displaced and priced out of the housing market by condo conversions, victimized by a secondary fending market and, at the same time, having unaffordable (to low/moderate income persons) housing developments being built. Ms. Schechter read from a newspaper article on projected costs to purchase new housing units being built in downtown Evanston and along Chicago Avenue. Regarding condo conversions, Ms. Schechter said that more than 800 rental units have been converted to condominiums since 1990 (source: Roberta Schur, Housing Planner for City of Evanston). The condo conversions are in contrast to the 70 affordable housing units which have been developed by not -for -profit housing groups (source: Evanston Consolidated Plan, 2001 — 2004). Ms. Schechter pointed out the discrepancy between what is happening (in housing development) in Evanston and what the City states in its - Consolidated Plan. Ms. Schechter said that vast City subsidies are needed for the construction of market rate condominium units. Ms. Schechter continued reading the newspaper article, which gave a buyer profile of the typical homebuyer in Evanston. She commented that the article gave a rather narrow profile of the type of people who live in Evanston and the article does not reflect the City's goals for housing development/redevelopment. Regarding establishing a tenant ombudsman position in the City's Human Relations Commission (HRC) office, Ms. Schechter said that the City's HRC staff should be responsible for enforcement of the City's landlord/tenant ordinance. People with landlord/tenant problems call Interfaith Housing Center after they have spoken to City staff, usually to verify the information received from the HRC. Ms. Schechter suggested some solutions. She said that "where there's a will, there's way". Ms. Schechter said that her collegue, Richard Koenig of the Interfaith Housing Development Corporation, has said that the biggest obstacle to putting together an affordable housing project is not financing; it's NIMBYism. Mr. Koenig is an expert in putting together affordable housing projects and can do most projects financially. She suggested that some kind of vision or set of principles be adopted by the City (a copy of some suggested principles was given to Committee members). Ms. Schechter said that the principles were developed by the Metropolitan Planning Council and the Leadership Council and were modeled on the Sullivan principles used in South Africa. Ms. Schechter also suggested that there be an equity income statement, having a set of criteria or policy that when a housing project comes before the City, it can be measured against the City -adopted equity principles. .Adoption of an inclusionary zoning ordinance was also recommended by Ms. Schechter. She said that Highland Park is currently drafting such an ordinance and that Interfaith has Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page 5 been working with Highland Park and other groups such as the Leadership Council, Chicago Rehab Network, Chicago Council on Urban Affairs, the Archdiocese, and the Metropolitan Planning Council. Paul Fisher and Phillip Nyden, both Evanston residents, are doing a lot of work around inclusionary zoning. Perhaps the City could either mandate or provide financial incentives for developers to provide affordable housing units in their luxury condominium buildings. Ms. Schechter added that Highland Park also has an affordable housing plan, which it did not have to develop, as it is not a recipient of HUD funds and did not have to put together a Consolidated Plan. Ms. Schechter said that TIF funds can be used to do affordable housing. SHAC State Housing Action Council) has a manual on this aspect of developing affordable housing. CDBG funds can also be used to create community based credit unions. The Woodstock Institute has guidelines to help community organizations develop credit unions. Ms. Schechter also encouraged the City to work with faith based communities to develop a lending pool or more generous lending guidelines to keep people from going to predatory lenders for financial assistance. Banks should be encouraged to loosen up some of their lending guidelines. An educational and outreach campaign needs to be developed. Ms. Schechter said that Evanston does a good job publicizing its achievements, such as the landlordhenant ordinance. No other North Shore community has such an ordinance. Fair housing for families with children needs to be enforced in Evanston; there are also issues with immigrant families. The City and community need to look at how they can help people who work in Evanston but can't afford to live in Evanston. Ms. Schechter also suggested possibly expanding funding for people with short term emergencies. Ms. Schechter discussed a pilot program in the south suburbs sponsored by the Housing Authority of the County of Cook (HACC), as the agency which has control over Section 8 certificates. She suggested that, perhaps, the City could talk to HACC about setting up a pilot program in Evanston. Sherrill Frost Brown. Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs Ms. Frost Brown said that she did not have much to add to Ms. Schechter's continents except that she wanted to highlight the creation of a community credit union. She said that Interfaith has resources for developing credit unions. Using CDBG funds for helping to establish alternative banking services in the community would be helpful. Ms. Frost Brown highlighted the enforcement of ordinances against discrimination in the rental and sale of housing, She said that Interfaith works with the Evanston HRC on this. Eighty percent of the complaints received at Interfaith are about the rental housing market. Ms. Frost Brown said that, from her experience, living on Clyde Avenue, a lot of people are not able to take advantage of the condominium conversion taking place on her block because of the prices of the units. She added that fair housing rights for families and children also needs to be enforced. She wanted to encourage the HRC to continue R Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page G enforcing those laws with CDBG funding, as well as to encourage education of landlords and the entire community about housing issues. ,due Carlson. Homesharing PLogram. Interfaith Housinct Center Ms. Carlson said that she deals with people who need affordable housing everyday. She said that the Evanston Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Association have told her that their members are experiencing difficulty finding workers because of the shortage of affordable housing in Evanston. She said that this is a major economical issue. Ms. Carlson added that everybody has a value and right to live in an affordable and comfortable way. Ms. Carlson said that She has moved to Evanston three times and sbe has chosen to do that because of Evanston's diversity, which she felt was now being lost. Ms. Carlson discussed how the Homesharing program works: matching people seeking affordable housing with persons seeking persons to share homes and living expenses. The people who share their homes need to share them because of the cost of housing in Evanston. Homesharing has been able to complete approximately 20 matches a year in Evanston. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Ms. Schechter about her theory of what should happen. He said he thought she had some good ideas but, in light of the current situation in Evanston, we are in an era where there are a lot of condos being developed in Evanston, particularly in the downtown area. The City also has a situation where landlords face high expenses and the problem of subsidy not being able to march the price of the development score large condo units. A lot of the people who experience difficulties are large families who can't find a large enough unit which they can afford. He asked Ms. Schechter how she saw housing in Evanston moving forward. Ms. Schechter responded that the City is in a position where it cannot allocate (funds) beyond its means. How do we work to protect affordable housing with the reality of limited resources? Ms. Schechter responded that there are a lot of resources which could be sought. The City can use TIF funds to create affordable housing. Wherever there is an opportunity, the City could work to set aside units with the use of TiF funds. The concept of community land trust, where rights of land can be separated from rights of buildings on the land, which result in making the land affordable. She also encouraged the limited development of co-ops. Ms. Schechter said that, while the benefits of home ownership are being extolled, people who generally look to the City for assistance are not necessarily seeking financial gain_ There are a lot of models for developing affordable housing, but it is difficult to change the development spiral, once it has gotten started. Ald. Kent commented on the currency exchanges and payday loan stores. He said that he has a problem with those institutions, to a certain degree, because if the same people who are going to payday loans and currency exchanges could obtain funding/loans from Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 7 their banks, then they would not have to go to the currency exchanges and payday loan stores. Credit defines where a person lives. He said he did not know if the creation of a community credit union would bring banks into the mainstream. He wondered if it were possible for banks to compete with credit unions. Ms. Schechter said that she is very interested in credit unions and discussed her experience working with a loan from the Amoco Foundation, and working with Woodstock institute, to establish credit unions in Chicago's Austin, Uptown and West Garfield neighborhoods. Some of the credit unions were created by church groups. The Northside Credit Union actually used the Community Reinvestment Banking Act to start out a small credit union, which makes modest loans. Ald. Rainey said that last year the Committee pleaded with organizations to come to the committee with credit focused proposals. She said that the Committee assured them that if it received proposals for credit focused projects, the Committee would do everything in its power to fund them. She said that that plea was still "out there". She said that the Committee has the money to allocate and thought a credit focused proposal would be a good proposal for an organization to develop. Kenneth Rodgers added that he knows of two to three churches which have tried to establish credit unions, but have not been able to get the projects off the ground. Ms. Schechter agreed that it is very difficult to get a credit union established. The Woodstock Institute has a lot of resources in this area. If there are three to four churches who can work together to create a community credit union, then they should go to the Woodstock Institute for assistance. Aid. Rainey said that the Committee hears that there is nothing here for people; however, there are tremendous resources. She asked how many communities the size of Evanston have a mortgage corporation which meets every week and a first time homebuyer program. Evanston has Evmark (downtown marketing organization) and financial resources available. What is needed are facilitators who are willing to carry out the programs. David Schoenfeld said that one of the major challenges with credit unions is education and getting people to understand how they work. Banks who work with the Community Reinvestment Act to invest funds are finding that people are not taking advantage of their credit programs. One problem is that people are living paycheck to paycheck. One can establish a credit union, but people need to be educated and encouraged on how to use the credit union. Affordable housing and credit is a huge problem and the City has very limited resources. The Committee recommends that applicants focus on leveraging funds. CDBG funds have to be part of an overall approach. Mr. Schoenfeld said he is interested in suggestions on leveraging funds. Just writing a check will not solve the problem. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page 8 Ald. Jean -Baptiste discussed the possibility of having a credit union available for people who want to borrow money. However, credit unions have to follow many of the same regulations as banks. A borrower has to be accountable for his/her loan. Residents needs to be educated and manage whatever resources they have available. People need to learn how to stretch their income to meet their needs. We can't have a credit union established in Evanston with different expectations of their customers than banks. The reality may be that there may be a lot of resources, but people don't know about those resources. Kenneth Rodgers said there are a lot of educational programs which educate people, especially African Americans, on how to manage their money. No matter who operates the credit union, they still have to follow the laws for that type of banking service. Ald. Bernstein announced that the City Council's Budget Committee would be meeting the next night with large not -for -profit organizations in Evanston. With some powerful guarantors behind a credit union, money could perhaps be tent at lower rates. He asked about the nature of the complaints being received by Interfaith. Sherrill Frost Brown said that she does not know if the callers are not getting correct information from the City. She said that sometimes Interfaith receives calls from people who just want to confirm the information the City's HRC has given them. Ald. Rainey said that one of the serious problems is that Evanston has one of the more forward looking landlord/tenant laws in the country. However, the way it is enforced is by private right of action, which means any tenant can hire a lawyer and go to cow under the ordinance. The HRC took a big step to go to the (City Council's) Planning and Development Committee to see if there was some way that the City's Legal Department could take the landlord/tenant ordinance and create a set of violations, whereby landlords who violate the ordinance could be issued a ticket, which is then adjudicated through the City's Administrative Adjudication process. Crafl Schechter concluded the discussion by saying that it is difficult to start a credit union, but the establishment of one is a wonderful tool to help low/moderate income people with thew financing needs. Sriai Bond. 802 Sherman Ms. Bond said that she was a single mother with a special needs child. She recently moved to Evanston because of its schools and programs for children with special needs. Ms. Bond suggested that a Chicago program, Individual Development Accounts, could be established to help tenants save for the purchase of housing. She added that in Chicago vacant lots and apartment buildings, which can be bought and renovated, are sold to neighborhood residents at a low price. She said that she had visited the Evanston Civic Center and could not find any programs to assist low income persons. The only persons Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July i?, 2001 Page 9 who could assist her were the homeless providers, and she wasn't homeless. Ald. Rainey said that she would have information sent to Ms. Bond about the City's first time homebuyer program. Judith Treadway added that she thought that CEDA/Neighbors at Work offered an Individual Development Account program. Delores Holmes. Familv Focus Ms. Holmes asked the Committee to remember the families sewed by Family Focus in the 5d' Ward. She said that these are not the homeless families one sees in shelter or living in the street. They are people who do not have stable living conditions. Family Focus staff sees the children of these families everyday. These families do not want to leave Evanston; they are Evanston born and raised, yet they have difficulty finding affordable housing , so they double up with each other. This is becoming more of a problem in the area bounded by Brown/Emerson/Ashland/Simpson. Landlords are evicting families and they have no place to go, so they double up with relatives. merge Providence H Mr. Providence said that he is a single father with two teenage daughters. They are being educated in the City's school system and benefit greatly from the diversity in student bodies and classmates who come from different ethnic backgrounds. He said he wants to live in a community with diversity, such as Evanston. Mr. Providence spoke about the high rise, luxury condominium buildings being built for people with higher incomes. As rental buildings are converted to condos, they become affordable for people with more income than a low/moderate income person/family has. He said that Evanston needs to preserve places where very low income persons can live in affordable, safe and sanitary housing. Mr. Providence asked the Committee to look favorably upon proposals for affordable housing in Evanston. Mr. Providence said that he is also an Assistant Pastor at Reba Place Church and is on the board of directors of the Reba Place Housing Development Corporation (RPDC). The will to get things done is very important. He discussed a (City) HOME loan project which RPDC is currently undertaking. He said that he knows that the Committee cannot, on its own, solve the housing problem in Evanston. He said that 45 families have been lost in his neighborhood, primarily African American families because they cannot afford their housing. Ald. Rainey commented that of all the organizations in Evanston, short of Northwestern, RPDC probably has the credentials to advance the idea of a community based credit facility. She asked Mr. Providence if he thought that such a project would be something he could discuss with his organization. Mr. Providence responded that credit counseling would definitely be something in which RPDC would like to participate. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 10 Ald. Bernstein suggested that 14ir. Providence and others talk to Sally Lufkin, CDBG Grants Administrator, about creating proposals which will meet the requirements of the Committee and HUD guidelines. He said that RPDC knows how to put together projects and carry them out. Phoebe Novak Ms. Novak said she feels that the founding fathers of Evanston had a sincere message as to what kind of a community they wanted Evanston to be. She said that she thinks that the vision they had is being shifted. She said that she would like to move to Evanston, but cannot afford housing. Sandra Johnson. North Share Senior Center Ms. Johnson said she was pinch hitting for Alexander Brown, director of the Evanston office. She said that she was a 33 year resident of Evanston and for the last six years the North Shore Senior Center, based in Northfield, has been serving residents of the Evanston community. NSSC's clients are primarily older women in their 70's, 80's and 90's who are very frail and are struggling to remain in the Evanston community. Many of them have lived in Evanston all their lives. Affordable housing is very important to this population. She also said that in -home workers to help seniors are difficult to find. Several years ago it was possible to find in -home workers for Evanston seniors among the Evanston population, but NSSC is having difficulty finding them now, because the salaries they earn are modest and people cannot afford to live in Evanston. NSSC works very closely with Senior Action Services, which is training some home care workers, but more are needed. She hoped that the Committee would remember the old, frail women living in Evanston in making their funding recommendations. Beau Sue Es= Ms, Ester said that she has heard that in one or more of the condo buildings being built in downtown Evanston, the developers of those buildings are setting aside some of the units for senior citizens. However, she did not know whether those units would be for low/moderate income seniors; she hoped so. If the senior set aside units are being sold at market rates then affordable housing is still not being provided for Evanston's senior citizens. Ms. Ester reiterated what Ms. Schechter had said, that affordable housing could be done with TIF funds and some of the units being built in downtown Evanston could be set aside for low/moderate income residents. Ms. Ester urged the Committee to urge the City Council to establish a set aside policy for new housing development in Evanston. She thought individual development accounts were also a good idea. Ms. Ester discussed the number of houses in Evanston which are Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page 11 boarded up and thought that if the City could take over those buildings, they could be rented to families seeking affordable housing, perhaps a family who wants to first rent the house and then purchase it. with part of rental payments going toward down payment on the purchase of the house. Regarding credit and credit unions. 'pis. Ester said that credit unions do have the same standards as banks. However, credit unions are different from banks because they allow members to open accounts with small deposits, even S5.00, unlike banks. She said that the City does not push banks to offer small savings accounts under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). tics Ester said there is a group in the 5`s Ward which is starting tv explore how to set up a credit union with information they obtained from the Woodstock Institute. In addition to establishing a credit union, Ms. Ester said that people need to be educated about financing. She discussed a St. Louis program run by Catholic Charities, which worked with people to improve their credit record. Ms. Ester said to say the City has the money and wants to do affordable housing, yet not take a step toward doing something will result in the community continuing to just talk about affordable housing and not creating projects that building affordable housing units. Ald. Rainey said that the Committer has the money to encourage the community to become empowered. The Committee itself cannot run projects; it is looking to Evanston residents to propose projects which are eligible for CDBG funding and that the Committee can support. The Committee is in a position to give money; it would like to encourage a group of individuals or an organization to develop and submit proposals along the lines of the discussion at this meeting. Aid. Bernstein added that the Committee, by its definition, can only be reactionary (to proposals submitted to by the Evanston community for funding). Judith Treadway asked that the speakers be a little more specific about the kind of affordable housing programs they would like to see in Evanston. Ms. Ester said that affordable housing is all inclusive. There are lots of things which go into a person being able to move into affordable housing. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that the Committee has a particular mandate to help support initiatives which serve low/moderate income residents. He said that it was his understanding that what the Committee was trying to do at this meeting was to listen to the needs of the community and get ideas from organizations on the types of proposals for the use of CDBG funds they might be submitting. When the proposal is received by the Committee, then it can react to it and make a decision about funding. The Committee itself will not be putting together any specific proposals itself. He suggested that applicants contact Sally Lufkin for information on the CDBG application process Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page 12 Renee Spruel Ms. Spruel said that she is a single parent and has been Iiving in Evanston for 8 years. Ms. Spruel wondered how people could be taught to manage their finances within their means when they are already living below their means. She thought that the credit union idea would be great and then discussed the cost of raising children on one salary without any other source of income. Ms. Spruel said that she moved to Evanston because of the schools and since her children have been attending Evanston schools, their grades have improved. She said that it is difficult for her to press ahead with her vision for her children on a limited income. She doesn't want her children to grow up in poverty. She wondered how she could be shown to manage her finances better if she already does not have a sufficient income to pay for all the needs of her family. People probably want to learn how to make changes, but don't know how and are subsequently pushed back. She said that it is very difficult to raise children in a stable living environment when the family has to move every few years because of the cost of housing. Evanston has what is needed to raise a family in a stable environment. Something has to be done to help the children, because they are our future. She added that housing should be affordable to lower income persons in all neighborhoods, not just in a few. She plead with the Committee to take some steps to start some programs, even though the overall costs of those programs might cost more than the funds available at any one time. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that the fundamental issue not have enough money is a societal problem. Credit unions can be made available and people can learn about the types of assistance they can obtain. Aid. Rainey said that the City does not have a shortage of funds; there are additional funding resources available to the City. She pointed out that currently over $12 million has been invested from various funding sources in two projects to create affordable housing being developed by not for profit corporations. Aid. Rainey said that it was the federal government which decides how much money the City receives in CDBG funds each year and that decision is based upon a formula. Aid. Kent thanked Ms. Spruel for her comments; they keep things very real for the Committee. He said that he did not have any answers, but that he has been working hard to try to find some. There is a problem when a person can pay $1,600 a month for a substandard apartment when $1,600 could be used to pay a mortgage. Everyone agrees that it is affordable housing that is needed in Evanston; the stopping point seems to be credit. Aid. Kent said he thinks everyone is still on a search on how to do this because not all pieces of the puzzle have been assembled yet. Once all the pieces have been assembled, then someone can be given the opportunity to develop and carry out a program. If an affordable housing program could be developed and all of the pieces needed were assembled, then a proposal could be brought to the City Council for possible funding and support. If the proposal could not be funded through the CDBG program or needed additional funds, then perhaps the City's Economic Development Committee Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 13 could support it. Ald Kent noted that there were currently 23 houses boarded up in the 5'h Ward. The question is why they were boarded up in the first place. Ald. Kent thought that the community was closer then ever to having all the pieces together. Pamela Hickman Ms. I ickman said that she has been living in Evanston 8-112 to 9 years. She said that she is a housing advocate with Evanston Neighborhood Conference and with a regional housing coalition. Affordable housing for renters is needed; not everyone wants to buy housing. Ms. Hickman talked about recently receiving her real estate license and seeks to earn a living selling real estate. She said that renters call her everyday needing a place to live (with Section 8 certificates). She agreed that education is needed and that something also needs to be put together to educate tenants. Stating that her own financial education came later in life, she said that she was teaching her five children about finances while they are young. Ms. Hickman said that she moved to Evanston because it is a diverse community and has a good education system. She said that Evanston has ethnic diversity, but is losing its economic diversity. She discussed landlords who take advantage of Section 8 certificate holders by charging high rents. Everyone wants a good, clean place to live, yet there are landlords in Evanston who do not provide this type of housing. Low income residents contribute to the community similar to homeowners. Ms. Hickman said that she is able to live in Evanston because she has a Section 8 certificate. She discussed a successful homeownership program for Section 8 certificate holders in DuPage County. The HACC's family self-sufficiency program is not woriang. She thought establishing a credit union would be a good idea. Ms. Hickman concluded her remarks stating that she urged the Committee to not allow Evanston to lose its economic diversity. Morris Robinson (Dino) Jr. Mr. Robinson said that he was the president of the Evanston Neighborhood Conference (ENC). He said that he is a business owner in Evanston as well as a community activist. He urged the Committee to distribute resources more equitably throughout Evanston's neighborhoods. Mr. Robinson said that he owns and occupies a building, where his tenant holds a Section 8 certificate. He announced his willingness to participate in the housing voucher program. It take significant effort to put things into action. Those with limited or low incomes are defined by the federal government. As a community historian for ENC, Mr. Robinson said that there is a growing circle of community congregations which focus on preventing homelessness by providing clean, affordable housing options for low/moderate income persons in Evanston. Housing & Community Ekwelopment Act Committer Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 14 Helen Roberts Evans. Child Care Center of Evanston Ms. Roberts Evans said that she is the director of the Child Care Center and they plan to submit an application for funding to make improvements to their building at 1940 Asbury, specifically, to make repairs to an addition on the backside of the building, which is rotting into disrepair. She thanked the Committee for its past support. Ms. Roberts Evans commented that she could identify and empathize with all the persons who have addressed the Committee. She said that the Child Care Center is able to serve 100 children at its Asbury building and serves approximately another 100 children through its home care network. The Child Care Center is a place where families can come for support. She says that her staff hears stories on a regutar basis like the ones heard at this meeting, including a family who recently asked her about affordable housing in Evanston. Ms. Roberts Evans said that she is the sole supporter for her four sons; they had to attend three different schools before the time they were in second grade. She discussed how she had called 50 landlords seeking an apartment and learned that they would not rent to her because she had four children. Ms. Roberts Evans said that she has been able to work with her landlord to purchase a Section S building and she is now using the income from that unit to supplement her income. She said this happened because she found someone who cared. It takes people who really care to implement change. Through the Child Care Center they are able to find retired, home day care providers who want to help out. Ms. Roberts Evans said she would like the Child Care Center to be a place for information and referral for families. Mr. Tholin said that he is a 27 year resident of Evanston, having moved to Evanston from Naperville to teach at Garrett Theological Seminary. Mr. Tholin said that he came to the meeting mainly to learn what the real problems are in Evanston and what solutions might be proposed. Mr. Tholin said that he saw a problem of community identity as well as individual problems, as described by previous speakers. He said that it is very important for the government to take seriously the problems of the community, because it has to express the attitudes of the community. The community needs a vision from governmental leaders and others. Mr. Tholin noted that one of the players which had not been discussed at this meeting are the housing providers, developers and builders and their responsibility (to provide affordable housing). It has been said that people should do what they can with limited resources. However, the people who are being rewarded for providing housing are not being challenged to provide housing for _q1_l Evanston residents. He suggested that the Committee consider establishing a set aside policy; a developer should be asked to provide affordable housing for the whole community, not just a segment of it. If Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 15 developers say that they cannot afford to provide housing units for low income people, the economic diversity in Evanston will be lost. The City needs to tell developers and landlords that if they want to do business in Evanston, they need to provide housing for all income levels. This practice has worked in other places, such as in Montgomery County, MD, where affordable housing was done in a way which did not segment people by income levels. More than 10,000 affordable housing units were created. Mr. Tholin said that the government needs to be courageous and start the "ball rolling" in affordable housing. He suggested that before another condo is built or converted (from rental), there be a sufficient number of units made available for low/moderate income persons in Evanston. Mr. Tholin concluded his remarks stating that he was considering an application for CDBG funds for study or research. Michael Phillips Mr. Phillips said that most of the previous speakers had addressed what he was planning to say to the Committee. He said that he had expected to make a plea to the Committx to solve a particular problem, but now realizes that the Committee can only respond to proposals from the community and support them. Mr. Phillips said that he has lived in Evanston since 1954; he is a homeowner, landlord and parent. He talked about people who have had to move out of Evanston because they could no longer afford to live here. He urged the Committee and City Council to have the political will to initiate a change in City policy toward new housing development. Mr. Phillips noted that some projects start out as mixed income housing development, such as Presidential Towers and Sandburg Village in Chicago, but end up being for a higher income group. He added that there are companies who want to have their businesses in Evanston, but cannot find the type of employees they want because Evanston does not have a diverse range (economic) of people who are willing to work for a lower income because they cannot afford to live in Evanston. Aid. Rainey commented that one of the things which is so critical is that when an alderman brings something to any public body, they need the support of the community as well. There being no further speakers, the Public Hearing concluded at 10;30 p.m. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- July 17, 2001 Page 16 IV. REVIEW OF PROPOSED 2002/03 CDBG PROGRAM FUNDING CYCLE PROCDURES, SCHEDULE AND PROPOSED APPLICATION MATERIALS A Staff Memorandum re Needs Hearing and Proposed Funding Cycle Procedures B. Staff Memorandum re Proposed Application Forms for FY 2002/03 Ald. Rainey announced that the opening of the application period for FY 2002/03 funds we be next week, with Orientation Sessions for agency applicants scheduled for Tuesday, July 23d, at the Civic Center. The application period will be through Friday, September 14, 2001. it was suggested that first time applicants consult with Sally Lu&in'before filling out an application form to be sure that their proposed project/program will be eligible for CDBG funding. Ald. Rainey suggested that the proposed schedule for the FY 2002/03 application process (July -- December) be accepted by the Committee, as it is difficult to change dates at this point in time. Sally Lufkin discussed the five application forms: four for agency applicants (Public Services, Public Facilities, Housing and Economic Development), the one form for City department applicants, and the differences between agency and City applications. Copies of suggested application forms for a public facil ties project and the proposed City application farm were reviewed by the Committee. No changes were made to the forms since the last application period, except to change dates. VL COMMUNICATIONS A. Updated Conunittee Membership List (change in phone number for Horace Payne) B. Letter from BEHIV Announcing Appointment of New Executive Director C. Just Housing — Spring Newsletter from interfaith Housing Center D. Information on 2001/02 Accessible Curb Ramp Program — Phase I E. Monthly Reports from Agencies — March, April and May and some. la Quarter Narrative Reports F. Newspaper Articles: - Turning renters into owners - Midwest Housing starts increase 15.8% - How much of our homes do we own? - Habitat homes in Indiana subdivision - Home -buying boom squeezing rentals - Deals starting to appear in senior housing market Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 17, 2001 Page 17 - Suburban areas are atop growth study - Lack of affordable Housing seen - Affluence revealed in DuPage group's study - This housing is a steal, provided you're wealthy - Local housing market seems to be softening — to normal Chicago market may be returning to normal - Payday loan rules succeed - Fannie Mae to invest billions for area lending - In Hoeing's wake: What really counts - Cook County Commissions Trove tax break - Employer -Assisted Housing 4 Quarter Report - Testing by fair -housing groups seeks to help Hispanic tenants - Rayna Miller, helped bring fair housing to North Shore Accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. Judith Treadway suggested adding everyone's e-mail addresses to the Committee's membership list. Ald. Rainey suggested that members look over the monthly reports from agencies and be prepared to discuss them at the next meeting. She commented that she was not receiving enough information to make the reports useful and informative to her. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Judith Treadway said that the City's CDBG projects/programs are not being communicated adequately to the community; citizens do not know what the City has to offer. She also asked when the rental housing audit would be completed; it seemed like it had under underway for the past 10 years. She said that she was also concerned about complaints supposedly not being handled properly by Human Relations Commission staff. Ald. Rainey said that the reason why needed to be investigated to see if there really is a problem with (HRC) staff' assistance. Ms. Treadway also requested information about the number and type of complaints the City received under the landlord/tenant ordinance. Ald. Rainey said that the Human Relations Commission reports to the City Council's Human Services Committee and the Committee needs to invite them to make a report soon. She said that she will let Committee members know at which meeting the HRC report will be heard. Betty Sue Ester reminded the Committee about a list of suggested information to be asked of Public Services applicants, which had been submitted to the Committee while she was still a member (of the Committee). Due to the press of other business, those suggestions were not reviewed by the full Committee. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Lufkin to try to find the list and bring it to the next meeting. Sousing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 17, 2001 Page 18 The Committee's August meeting was rescheduled to Tuesday, August 10, at 7:30 p.m. in Room 2402 to accommodate members scheduk& VEL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 10:58 p.m. Staff: Ie. u Date: August 10, 2001 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, August 14, 2001 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Ci%ic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Kent, Ald. Rainey, Horace Payne, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department; Lloyd Shepherd, M/W/EBE Business Program; Chad Walton, Purchasing OTHERS PRESENT: Betty Sue Ester, Teri Tahm Evanston Day Nurwy; Laurie Marston, Carl Davis, Brian Harris, Mitch Zacks, M/W/EBE Committee Members PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JULY 17, 2001 MEETING Ald. Kent made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's July 17, 2001 meeting; the motion was seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Ald. Rainey asked that The minutes were approved, as amended, 6-0. HL PRESENTATION ON THE CITY'S MINORITY/WOMEN'S/EVANSTON (M/W/EBE) BUSINESS PROGRAM Laurie Marston, chair of the M/W/EBE Committee, introduced members of the committee in attendance as well as Purchasing Agent Chad Walton and Finance Director Bill Stafford. Ms. Martson said that the committee receives great staff support from Lloyd Shepard, Business Development Coordinator for the City of Evanston and noted that he has moved the City's contract compliance program forward. Mr. Shepard discussed achieving progress through partnerships. He said that is exactly what he is doing with the City's M/W/EBE program. He said that he does a lot of networking with organizations and agencies which are or have been involved with the City for a number of years. He is partnering with a lot of established companies and feels that the City will be able to maximize its effort to get more minority, women and Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 14, 2001 Page 2 Evanston business enterprises involved in contracting and purchase opportunities with the City. Mr. Shepard discussed the outreach efforts of the Purchasing Department: projects which come up which will impact minority, women and Evanston businesses. The Purchasing Department will publish bid solicitation on the internet, as well as post all requests for quotations, proposals and invitations to bid, in order to give equal opportunity to all suppliers, including M/W/EBEs. The City belongs to a free, online notification system called Municipalnet, which advises potation suppliers of opportunities which exist with the City of Evanston. The online data base is augmented by the City's existing M/W/EBE database. Diversity Quest, a minority owned company, has a database of minority and women - owned businesses in their international database. Fifty thousand small businesses are listed, including Evanston companies. This database provides exposure of City projects to minority, women and Evanston based businesses. The City hopes to have a greater impact by the augmentation of the database with its own database. Mr. Shepard said that he is attempting to create a M/W/EBE office page on the City's webpage to keep and project program information such as definition of the M/W/EBE program, viewing of the City's MIW/EBE specifications (highlighting upcoming events such as vendor fairs). He said that the City is hosting a vendor fair in the Parasol Room at City Hall on September 25, 2001 related to the upcoming Sherman Plaza redevelopment project. He added that a pre -bid conference is tentatively scheduled for November 14, 2001 with W.E. O'Neill, which will be building the new City parking garage beginning in the first quarter 2002. The M/W/EBE program will create an interactive exchange whereby potential contractors and subcontractors can identify opportunity areas and facilitate partnering on achieving' the City's goals. Everyone can view this and get themselves in a ready mode. If you want to participant on a project, but feel that you do not have the ability to do the job alone, then you can go into a joint venture with someone. Develop materials and implement routine sessions on "how to do business with the City of Evanston", which we believe is important. The business provides data on the website which will provide the NM/EBE program with the information that is needed to do business with the City. Implement the practice of holding sessions on a routine basis to allow interested suppliers to have questions addressed in an organized setting on how to do business with the City of Evanston. Hold sessions offsite so that community groups can convey information to its members about things going on with the City. Need to be more involved in getting the Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — August 14, 200I Page 3 message out to the community, through organizations such as the chamber of commerce and Suburban Black Contractors Association. Through the Chamber, the City will be able to get involved with merchant groups from various business sectors in Evanston, such as Central and Main Street merchants, and these groups will be able to determine whether they have the capabilities to do business with the city. Hold/Attend Opportunity Fairs — The City will host an opportunity fair at the Civic Center on September 25 . In addition to the City, Northwestern University, School Districts 65 and 202, St. Francis and Evanston Hospitals will have representatives in attendance. Other organizations and agencies that the City networks with include the chamber's Women's Business Development Center, Chicago Minority Business Development council, Evanston Small Business Development Center, Hispanic American Constniction Contractors Association, Federal of Women Contractors and Suburban Black Contractors. M/W/EBE staff will also attend the vendor opportunity fairs throughout the metropolitan area. For the first time the City of Evanston will be represented at the national Minority jt:dan pliers Development Council conference in Atlanta to be held October 28-31, 200I. om across the country will be in ce, Those who participate in this conference will be viewed as strongg advocates essive history of developingnon- ing the City's M/W/EB progratn, would like to be able to garner that kind of reputation. Attend Chicago business opportunity fair — this past spring the fair was hosted by Chicago Minority Business Development Council, there were 25 vendor exhibits. MMEBE staff also attended buyer/seller meetings hosted by the City of Chicago. Commonwealth Edison, Chicago Park District and sponsored a vendor fair with Northwestern University last fall; 83 vendors visited the City of Evanston table — 12 were Evanston companies_ Hold pro ect specific opportunityfairs — there is one scheduled for November 14, 2001 with a WVE. O Neill pre -bid meeting. O'Neill and other players in the project will talk to prospective subcontractors. The City will invite members of the Contractors Assistance organization to attend so that they will be able to get information for those minority and women owned and Evanston owned companies. Increase outreach to M/W/EBE community. M/W/EBE staff will partner with counterparts in other municipalities by sharing vendor information, com tunic and business development methodology and mutually attend vendors fairs. 'Tice City of Evanston already is working to increase the interest of M/EIEBE vendors in an effort to have them come and do business with the City. Staff currently_partners with economic development organizations such as the Evanston Chamber of Commerce, Evanston Small Business Development Center and Small Business Administration for bonding assistance. The city is assisting District 65 so that it can include M/W/EBE participation in the construction of the new school district administration building and early childhood center. A lot of business owners are interested in what kind of business can be generated out of that project. The City has already been involved in this project by providing new City of E Evanston specifications for the inclusion of MIW/EBE companies. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — August 14, 2001 Page 4 Staff frequently makes vendor and owner references to the Evanston Small Business Development Center. Staff also receives calls from Evanston residents who want to stag businesses and refers them to the Small Business Development Center. The Suburban Black Contractors Association has a clearinghouse for construction projects. They interact with Evanston merchants' organizations through the Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Committee and find a better vehicle for getting Evanston based contractors involved with construction in Evanston. To date there has not been a problem finding minority and women -owned companies, because many contractors, who have been involved in bidding municipallstate projects for a number of years, have contractors that they regularly hire. Mr. Shepard said the he is trying to prevent that from happening because that is not spreading the dollars around. OutrVach to minority and women agencies -- Women's Business Development Center and the Chicago Minority Business Council are utilized as a clearinghouse for requests for bids and quotations and issue M's to assist the City's in an effort to reach out to minority and women -owned firms. Noligges of construction nroiects sent to women and minority owned contracto , gr hnects and engineers - Construction Contractors Association organizations are used: all these groups have databases which the City can access. The City will be able to do the same with the Diversity Quest database, which came online this week. The Federation of Women Contractors, Black Contractors, United Hispanic American Construction Contractors Association and the Suburban Black Contractors Association, which is based in Evanston. The city sends specifications and drawings to these organizations so that their members can do an In-house review of them. If those organization have companies which have the capacity to do the job, they will let them borrow the specifications. General contractors seeking Evanston firms are provided assistance ��yy the City's M/W1EBE staff and the Evanston minority/women business directory. originally put together by (former M/W/EBE coordinator) Lisa Lewis, it is regularly updated. Diversity Quest is a minority owned company which has a database of 100,000 minority and women owned businesses and 50,000 small businesses. The City will use Diversity Quest's database and be able to do it with Purchasing Department personnel that are doing centralized purchasing. Membership in external organizations — The Cit 's MIW/EBE office does not have official memberships, but Mr. Shepard attends the Chicago Minority Business Development Council's meetings as a non -voting member, attends meetings of Suburban Black Contractors now being held in the Civic Center, and is a member of the Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Committee. Mr. Shepard said that he will be the next member of the participation committee of the Women's Business Development Center. Mr. Shepard added that he is a member of the Evanston branch of the NAACP and he takes the opportunity to spread the word about contracting opportunities with the City. Employment assistance to local residents — local residents frequently call the MfW/EBE office seeking job opportunities. The word is out that the City hasrequirements for hiring residents for training programs on the sewer/flood control project. If openings occur on those projects, and the contractor can utilize someone, this works out However, oftentimes, once the training program is over, there are not usually other employment opportunities. Sousing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- August 14, 2001 Page 5 Redevelopment agreements for church Street Plaza Project and Sherman Plaza — the agreements state that, to the extent that the general contractors as well as subcontractors can, .th should hire Evanston, minority and women residents who are economically depri= unemployed and under emploved. The requirement is that employees who work for the contractors/subcontractors are displaced. Instead, it is asked that the contrscxoss/subcontractors consider Evanston residents when they have job openings, where practical and feasible. Manage compliance with contractors, developers and develop internal procedures to improve contract compliance — M/W/EBE staff monitors the 25% MlW/EBE requirement for bids and proposals. The City strongly encourages a minimum 3% utilization of Evanston based businesses. City contract compliance is financed by the general contractor, who submits ppropper documents that verifies the ggeneral contractor's acceptance of the Cit 's MIW/EBE participation objective. Subsequently, general rs contractomust provide certification letters for all minority and women contractors and subcontractors in order to receive minority, women and Evanston based business credit. The M/W/EBE Committee will not approve M/W/EBE credit for non -certified companies. Stan' is working with the confusing areas of old specifications, to streamline the steps contractors must take to demonstrate compliance and the amount of credit to be taken for subcontractors, suppliers and manufacturers in meeting the participation object for a project. In order to be counted as an Evanston business, the following documentation must be submitted: letter of intent to comply with the City's M/W/EBE policy; advertise in newspapers and furnish the City certificates of publication so that the City knows that the contractor actually sought out MIW/EBE businesses; submit Schedule A -- M/W/EBE utilization plan — which identifies the various minority, women and Evanston business enterprises that will be used as subcontractors and provides the dollar amount of subcontracts and the percentage of the project that is elil&ible for M/W/EBE credit. In order to verify the contractor's schedule A, schedule B which is issued to subcontractors, indicates what it is that they will be doing on the project and provide a dollar amount which should match the contractor's amount on Schedule A An affidavit of M/WIEBE status gives a company an opportunity to check off whether they are a minority, woman owned or Evanston business. Every minority or women owned company must attach a letter of certification to the affidavit, which must come from an acknowledged source of certification, such as IDOT, Cook County, Chicago, etc. The contractor submits a monthly M/W/EBE participation summary if the project will run more than three months. One hundred percent credit is given prime contractors with a minimum of 25% participation. Credit is given for 601/6 of the contract value for the materials from a M/W/EBE supplier Firms who operate maintenance or store materials, supplies of the general character described by the specifications and required by the contract are sold —to a list of_people usually in the course of business. Firm must be a regular that engages, as its principal business, under its own name in the purchase and/or sale of products. Revised definition of EBE — This is a very important change. Ordinance 8-0-01 defined EBE as an entity which is located in or has one of more offices in the City of Evanston. The firm has be established here at least one year or have a significant investment in Evanston to be considered an EBE. EBE credit — business that maintains a distribution warehouse or manufacturer in Evanston receives an EBE credit of 601/6 and IWIa respectively. Those that do not maintain a manufacturing facility, warehouse or distribution center, but have an office in Evanston receive a 5% credit. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 14, 2001 Page 6 Mr. Shepard said that the MM'/EBE Committee was instrumental in putting together Ordinance 36-0-99, which established a local purchasing policy. All contracts for the purchase of goods and services with entirely City funds shall be awarded to the lowest contract bid price from a responsive and responsible Evanston business enterprise, provided the EBE's price does not surpass the lowest bid from a non -local business by more than 5%. Enactment of this ordinance has helped give Evanston businesses a leg up on contract purchases by the City. Mr. Shepard discussed the Minority Women Evanston Business programs activity report for FY 2000/01. S 12.8 million was awarded by the City Council in 2000/01. $4.4 million was awarded to MIW/EBE businesses for both construction projects and purchase ofgoods or services. In response to a questions from Ald. Rainey, referring to a discussion at a recent Administration & Public Works Committee meeting, Mr. Shepard said that the definition of a disadvantaged business (determined by the Small Business Administration SBA) is that the owner can have a personal net worth that exceeds $250,000 per person. However, the owner cannot have a business net worth that exceeds 5750,000. This does not include any equity in a home. The SBA program benefits historically underutilized business districts, known as hubzones. Having a hubzone designation enables small companies to go to a large company and be able to do business because the company is located in a hubzone. Ald. Bernstein said that disadvantaged business and minority owner and women owned companies are all certified by the same agencies. Mr. Shepard said that disadvantage businesses are certified by the SBA Mr. Shepard discussed what goes into making a business certified, standards for start up companies and how they get going. Chad Walton added that Mr. Shepard's office encourages join ventures between firms. He discussed the selection process for a contractor for the construction of the new Levy Senior Center in James Park. Part of the evaluation of the proposals received was how the proposed contractors responded to the City's M/W/EBE participation goal. One of the things the contractor, which was selected for the project did, was conduct a minority participation program. In addition to the 28.7°/a MIW/EBE participation reported so far, the company has taken on a couple of minority or women owned firms and is mentoring them to help them grow. Md. Jean -Baptiste asked about employment assistance to Evanston residents. He wondered how many local residents have been hired on construction projects. Mr. Shepard responded that he would provide information on this matter. He added that between 3-5% of the workers on the Levy Center are Evanston residents. If the City can Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — August 14, 2001 Page 7 negotiate stronger language in its agreements, then it can do more to help residents to participate in local construction projects. Mr. Shepard discussed the certification process for a business to be designated minority, woman owned or Evanston based. He gave a example where a new business wants to do business on one of the major contracts with the City of Evanston and the business is a start up business. What are the possibilities if the business lacks financial resources, experience or the business is not incorporated? Mr. Shepard said that once a business is certified as a woman owned or minority business, that determines whether it can handle the job. Ald. Kent discussed his referring people to Richard Holbrook at the Evanston Business Development Center and wondered what Mr. Holbrook's function was. He wondered whether the City tracks people it referred to the Business Development Center. Mr. Shepard responded that the City doesn't follow up on referrals to the Business Development Center. The only way he can track referrals would be if the person referred to the Business Development Center re -contacts the M/W/EBE program. A1d. Kent commented that it was great that the M/W/EBE program reaches out and creates channels for minority, women owned and Evanston based businesses. Horace Payne said that he didn't think that the M/W/EBE program could "wear all hats". He discussed the information packet, which explains to the public what the NMEBE program is. The packet also lists other departments which can also assist a M/WIEBE business. Mr. Payne discussed the Small Business Development Center network, located at 1840 Oak in the Research Park. The center was initially staffed by Charles Smith and the office was involved in malting sure that there was minority and women owned businesses involved in contracting jobs associated with the development of the Research Park. A1d. Bernstein thought it was worthwhile to get someone in-house, who could service people who want to investigate small business development and coordinate small business in Evanston. He wondered whether that service would be feasible. Mr. Shepard replied that he could look into that possibility. Ms. Treadway said that she believes there is a misperception on what the M/WIEBE program's role is in the community. She said that a lot of people see the M/W/EBE program as a business development center, rather than a contract compliance office for the City. Mr. Shepard said that he was working out a way that the City's M/W/EBE program could serve businesses coming through the Small Business Development Center with Richard Holbrook. He added that Mr. Holbrook will be attending the 9/25 vendor fair. Mr. Shepard also discussed the role of the Illinois State Department of Commerce and the federal Small Business Administration (SBA) in minority, women -owned and Evanston based business development. Betty Sue Ester added that the SBA pre -qualified business owners for SBA loans. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 14, 2001 Page 8 Laurie Marston said that over the past two years, the M/W/EBE Committee has requested an additional person for the City's `UW/EBE program, but the additional staff person has not yet been hired. She added that the NIVW/EBE program could operate more effectively if it had additional staff, perhaps even a''/2 time staff person. She said that the committee thinks that Lloyd Shepard is spread too thin to give adequate attention to contract compliance requirements plus be able to provide other assistance to Evanston residents and businesses. Regarding the Small Business Development Center, Ms. Marston said that the City does not want to duplicate what the center is doing. Mr. Holbrook works with small businesses and is a member of the Evanston Chamber of Commerce. Aid. Rainey urged the M/W/EBE Committee to try to get the additional position filled. Md. Bernstein discussed the 5% local preference policy and wondered if that was a sufficient percentage to make people more competitive or if a higher percentage would be more effective. Purchasing agent Chad Walton said that he has been tracking the impact that the 5% local preference policy has had; he thought that the 5% policy was woriaug well. He added that Chicago's local preference policy is 3%. Mr. Walton said that the City wants to make sure that it protects the Evanston community, that that was the reason why 5% a local preference was selected. Ald. Rainey discussed the purchasing card program. She said that the employees who have been issued the credit cards have spent S40,000 since the purchasing card program began. Mr. Walton said that those purchases would have been made regardless of whether the purchasing cards were used or the purchase requisition process. The purchasing cards streamline the process and quickly meet the departments' needs. The previous process involved a lot of paperwork for small purchases. Every card holder goes through a mandatory training session and is made aware of the City's purchasing policy. Shopping Evanston first is emphasized. The credit card identifies the user as an employee of the City, the departments' can quickly purchase what is needed, and from the vendors' perspective, there is savings associated with Iess paperwork and the vendor is paid within two days of the purchase. Finally, use of the credit cards provides a lot more financial control and data than the City was able to track in the past. Aid. Kent noted that the M/W/EBE program should follow its mission statement. He wondered if any thought had been given to employment assistance for people who call the City of Evanston and are looking for work. He referred to the sewer upgrade program and how it would be great if the City were able to give people an opportunity to come to the City, learn what is required to work on a sewer project, and the City could create a job pool of individuals. Ald. Kent said the ex -cans, in particular, can't get jobs because they don't have a GED. Mr. Shepard responded that he has spoken to some of the same people. He thought Ald. Kent's suggestion was excellent, but would need an additional staff person to implement such a program. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 14, 2001 Page 9 Ald. Rainey said that there has been over S12 million spent on construction projects in Evanston. She wondered why the City couldn't demand that certain bids include a provision to use unskilled laborers. She thought this requirement could be included in bids for playground equipment, tree trimming or landscaping projects and the City Council could insist on unskilled laborers being included in such contracts. She added that City staff is stretched to the limit. The City has S 1.5 million to spend on improvement contracts to redevelop parks. The City should be able to develop a pool of trained laborers who can take some of these types of jobs. Judith Treadway suggested that staff look into the status of the additional position for the M/W/EBE program, If the City wishes to maximize the effectiveness of its M/W/EBE program at least one additional staff person is needed. Aid. Rainey made a motion that the CD Committee send a request to Judith Witt in Human Resources requesting that within the next 30 days she publish job posting for an additional position in the M/W/EBE program. The motion was seconded by Ms. Treadway. Motion carried 6-0. IV. EVANSTON DAY NURSERY — STATUS REPORT ON FY 2001/02 KITCHEN PROJECT Executive Director Teri Talan presented a request from the Evanston Day Nursery Association to utilize a larger portion of the S44,000 in 20OV02 CDBG grants funds awarded to EDN than had originally been estimated. She discussed the status of the kitchen renovation project and Evanston Health Department standards, which require that certain upgrades to equipment be made and are causing the cost of the project to go beyond EDN's original estimate. Final decisions need to made in the coming days so that the kitchen renovation project can be completed during the two/three week period when EDN is closed. Ms. Talan discussed EDN's original estimated budget of $103,000, which included renovation of a classroom, conversion of a second floor apartment into classroom space, in addition to the kitchen project. Ms. Treadway asked about other funding sources for the project. Ms. Talan said the CDBG funding request was for S83,000, with S20,000 coming from a private donor. Ms. Talan reiterated that the elevated cost of the kitchen project is being caused by health department regulations. Other costs, such as architectural services are kept to a minimum by EDN's architect, Rockwell Associates. Ms. Talan said that 91% of the day nursery's 65 children are Evanston residents, 70°/a of the staff lives in Evanston and that over 601/14 of the staff are minorities. EDN is open eleven hours a day. Ms. Talan discussed the history of EDN, the conversion of a landmark house building built in the 1880's into a day care center. She said that EDN is the oldest early childhood program in Evanston; it was started in 1912. EDN operates on a sliding fee scale; 405/6 of the families receive a set subsidy. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 14, 2001 Page 10 The committee had concerns about the cost of some of the kitchen equipment and labor. Judith Treadway made a motion, seconded by Horace Payne, to authorize the Evanston Day Nursery to spend additional CDBG funds on the kitchen renovation project. Motion carried, 6-0. Ald. Rainey thanked Ms. Talan for bringing this matter to the attention of the committee, V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Sally Lufkin announced that Nicki Modaber would be leaving employment with the City of Evanston at the end of August. She said that Nidd had accepted a position with Arlington County, VA, Committee members expressed regret that she was leaving Evanston and wished her success in her position. Ms. Lufkin discussed the schedule for the upcoming proposal review hearings in October and Committee funding recommendation meeting. All four meetings will be televised. A date in early October was selected for a "bus" tour of CDBG projects for Committee members. Betty Sue Ester said that she was glad to hear the report from the M/W/EBE Committee. She asked whether the City had considered putting bid notices on the internet, where it could reach more prospective bidders. Chad Walton said that advertising on the internet is one way of reaching prospective bidders and that information is sharing through the Diversity Quest network. However, the City is required to advertise in a local newspaper any bid over S15,000. VL COMMUNICATIONS A. Girl Scouts/lllinois Crossroads Council -- 2000 Final Reports for Lone Tree and ❑Iinois Crossroads Council; Strategic Plan 2002-200 B. Statement by handy S. Patterson, Executive Director of the Lancaster County, PA Housing & Redevelopment Authorities before the House Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity C. Letter from North Shore Senior Center re Relocation of Evanston Office D. Newspaper Articles l . Many landlords face a dilemma: help poor tenants or seek profits 2. Affordable developments being built for senior living 3. More borrowers pass on the mortgage -rate lock option 4. Fraud hits housing program 5. Redevelopment program targets four neighborhood 6. Evanston personality — Helen Roberts -Evans of Child Care Center 7. Restless in Rogers Park Sousing do Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 14, 2001 Page 11 8. Cuba Confiscates houses deemed as "oversized" 9. Affordable housing eludes empty -nesters in Naperville 10. Rent increases fought by California group 11. Mortgage firm has good model for subprime lending 12, Appellate Court supports condemnation of land 13. Aurora allocates more funds for loan program 14. A market -rate milestone in Washington Pwk i S. Housing program has lofty goals 16. HUD program for cops, teachers set to resume 17. Carpentersville scraps HUD program 18. Aurora — housing standards plan in review VIL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 10:36 P.m. staff /a Date: March 12, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Wednesday, September 12, 2003 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Ald. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department.: OTHERS PRESENT: ; PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM rt ; Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. LL COMMUNICATIONS ,. A. Average Home Sales Prices 1999-Present B. Community Development News C. Newspaper Articles HUD eyes cuts in rental funding Green roofs in the new and improved stage Neighbors oppose this high -density housing plan „.;•,;., Education buyers can be successful homeowners From blight to building: new face of New Orleans > f More seeking subsidized housing in Detroit More money for mortgages Harmony's promise: A place for humans, nature to interad Most Americans' wealth in based on owning a home Atlanta -area foreclosures continue to climb higher Investigators discover HUD is not reporting all problems Refinancing fees prompt a borrower question: Why? Slowing economic is boon for home buyers in Denver Program may help Muslims pay for homeownership Aurora may lower proposed residential developer fees Fiber-optic program connects community Watching the affordability factor St. Charles — Financial assistance plan would aid home buyers City loans for taxes expanded Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 12, 2001 Page 2 - DuPage urges aid for smaller rentals - Sidewalks are welcome in new subdivisions - California is moving toward shortage of new, existing homes - New residents are finding lower housing costs in Ohio The communications were accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. III. REQUEST TO AMEND GUIDELINES FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD SECURITY PROGRAM Sally Lufkin discussed a proposed amendment to the eligibility requirements for the Neighborhood Security Program. She discussed a set of applications received from a group of adjacent multi -family property owners in the 51e ward and the request from an adjacent commercial property owner to be included in the security (fencing) program. The guidelines for eligibility for the Neighborhood Security Program currently allow the program to be offered only for multi -family residential structures located in the CDBG Target Area. Ms. Lufkin said that staff is requesting that, on a case by case basis, that commercial properties adjacent to residential property be eligible to participate in the, program, when the external building security improvement would enhance the overall security for the multi -family building(s) in addition to the commercial property. After discussion about the merits of the proposal, Judith Treadway made a motion not to amend the Neighborhood Security Program guidelines to allow adjacent commercial property owners to participate in the program, keeping the eligibility guidelines for owners of multi -family residential properties only located within the boundaries of the CDBG Target Area. The motion was seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Motion; carried, 4-0. IV. MONTHLY REPORTS - July Monthly Reports - Discussion of monthly reports previously distributed to the Committee Ms. Lufkin discussed the background and procedure for submission of monthly reports by public services grantees and CEDA and the reports submitted by grantees of all other CDBG funded projects. The Committee reviewed the July monthly reports as well as reports previously received. It was the consensus of the Committee that not enough information is being conveyed in the monthly reports and that staff should return to requesting quarterly reports which not only provide data and expenditures but narrative information on the status of the programs. Ms. Lufkin said that she would work on revising the report form/format and implement it in the next program year. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 12, 2001 Page 3 V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Ms. Lufkin announced that representatives from HUD's Chicago office would be visiting Evanston on September 2e at 10:00 a.m. to provide the City with HUD's annual assessment of HUD funded activities in Evanston All Committee members are invited to attend. VL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m. Staff: ' Date: March 19, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: I. CALL TO ORDER MINUTES Tuesday, October 23, 2001 7:00 P.M. - Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway Aid. Bernstein Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske Aid. Rainey, Chair The meeting was called to order at 7:14 p.m. Aid. Rainey explained that the Committee would stay with the format they have used the last few years, follow the agenda and go down the list. She explained that applicants would have 15 minutes for their presentation and questions from the Committee. II. 2002/03 CDBG PROGRAM - Agency Application Review A4 - Evanston Community Defender/Evansion Communhy Defender's Offke William Parks, Chairman of the Board of the Community Defender Office, introduced Patricia Barber, Board member; Noreen Kim, staff attorney and Robert Roy, executive director. Mr. Parks explained that the Community Defender's Office was created at the request of the City Council in 1973 to provide criminal defense to low income Evanston residents. He said that the Defender's Office provides not only legal aid but also provides social service intervention. Mr. Parks said that the Community Defender was requesting S85,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Parks to share some of the Community Defender's success stories. Noreen Kim said some of their success was in working with other agencies in the community. Aid. Jean -Baptist requested specific information on their clients. Ms. Kim said that there are clients that have legal problems, perhaps problems with school and problems in their personal life. While the Defender's office helps with the legal aspect, it also helps to solve the other problems in the youth's life. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23, 2001 Page Two The difference between the Community Defender and the other agencies is that you have a public defender and public assistance. What the Defender's Office does is to help young people beyond legal representation. 70% to 80% of the students that come to the Defender's Office have school issues; a lot of them have DCFS problems. The Defender's Office follows that individual, not only in his criminal case, but goes to the school if there is a disciplinary hearing, making sure that if there is a mental health problem, some semi-professional counseling is given. Judith Treadway said that last year the Defender's Office served 119 clients and was projected to serve 150 clients this year. She asked if there was a specific reason for the increase. Mr. Parks said that 150 clients are the maximum number of clients that the Defender's Office can serve. He added that the Defender's Office has never turned anyone away. Aid. Rainey asked how many clients of the Defender's Office were attending Evanston Township High School. Mr. Parks replied that 70% to 80% of the clients they served were attending ETHS. Aid. Rainey asked for the number of Evanston high school youth and the age range of the clients that the Defender's Office served in the last fiscal year. Mr. Parks said he would get that information to her before the November 15`h meeting. Ald. Rainey added that she wanted the number of juveniles and the number of youth from 18 - 21 that had been served by the Defender's Office. Al 1 - Legal Assistance Foundation Of Chicaga/Civic Legal Services William Kolen, supervisory attorney of the Evanston office of the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago (LAF). stated that his agency provides free civil legal services for low income and elderly residents. He said that at this point, as an agency, LAF is serving all of Cook County with his office primarily serving Evanston and the north/northwest suburbs. Mr. Kolen said his office provides a wide range of services, including counseling, advice to clients about their legal rights and representing the clients in court. Mr. Kolen explained that the cases range from housing related cases, conditions of apartments, and advocating on behalf of the tenants, family law, representing victims of domestic violence in divorces, custody cases, and child support matters, and in consumer law, everything from bankruptcy to hospital collection. and mortgage foreclosures. The Evanston LAF office does outreach at the Levy center. The office is staffed with three attorneys and him, plus there is a group of volunteer attorneys that help meet the Foundation's needs. The LAF is open Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. They are located at 828 Davis Street; phone number is 475-3703. Aid. Rainey asked about the kind of cases that the Legal Assistance Foundation gets in Evanston. Mr. Kolen said he could do a report, but this report would not show if it were a simple Housing and Community Dc%-elopment Act Committee Minutes - October 23. 2001 Page Three advice case or a case in court. He said he could break it down by city and type of case. Aid. Rainey stressed that she would like this information before the November meeting. Aid. Kent said that, like Aid. Rainey. he would like to see a case breakdown. But he was most interested if Mr. Kolen had clients coming to him regarding predatory lending. Aid. Kent asked if there were any communication between the City's Human Relations Commission office and the Legal Assistance Foundation's office regarding predatory lending. Mr. Kolen said that at this point, he did not think that his office had seen a large number of clients regarding predatory lending. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if LAFC was collaborating with any other agency in Evanston. He asked what LAFC was doing for people in foreclosure. Mr. Kolen said that LAFC worked collaboratively with the Community Defender and other agencies. With respect to the YWCA, domestic violence advocates that appear at the Skokie court house on behalf of victims of domestic violence will refer clients to LAFC that need either additional legal services. Mr. Kolen said that the police would very often refer people to LAFC. Alb - Evanston Day Nursery/ChUd Care Center Improvement Teri Talan, Executive Director of the Evanston Day Nursery, located at 835 Grant Street, said her request is for the improvement of one of the three classrooms located in the facility. Ms. Talan said that while EDN is not located within the CDBG target area, they serve children from all over Evanston. She brought a map showing where the children served by EDN live. The map showed that more than 50% of EDN's children are located in the target area and therefore, are considered to be low - moderate income. Ms. Talan said that EDN is the oldest early childhood program in Evanston and this coming year vvill be celebrating 90 years of providing early childhood services to the community. EDN first applied CDBG funds 13 years ago. She said that the funds given to EDN by the CDBG Committee has been leveraged to generate private dollars. EDN has used those funds to maintain high quality care. In the State of Illinois the average length of time someone's certificate of eligibility for state subsidy is six months. At EDN children stay in the program for the length of time that their family chooses (could be two years - eight years). EDN's ability to do that is partly due to the fact they hve been able to use CDBG fund to rehab and expand the facility. Ms. Talan said that currently EDN's enrollment is full, but they do have a wait IisL EDN's phone number is 854-9700, and her email is Teri,rnavenue.com. Judith Treadway asked if EDN does competitive bidding when it does expansion/improvements to the EDN center. Ms. Talan said that they do and they also use Davis Bacon standards for wage rates paid on construction contracts. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23.2001 Paae Four Aid. Kent asked if EDN had used the Youth Job Center (YJC) in the summer by employing some youth summer tutors. Ms. Talen said that they have not used YJC, but they do help current staff who are in entry level positions gain further education by supporting them through tuition reimbursement, through release time, and through accessing professional development funds. Ms. Talan said that she would be interested in pursuing using YJC further. Al2 - Metropolitan Family Services/E1derAbuse Prevention Services Carla Frisch, Supervisor of the Elder Abuse Program, said that the Elder Abuse Program is a small, but important program for the people they serve. She said that the Elder Abuse Program receives state funding to be the designated agency to serve as the elder abuse agency for Evanston and Niles Township. That funding provides bachelor's level casework services to investigate whether elder abuse is going on and to develop intervention to stop the abuse, if it is found. CDBG funding allows Metropolitan Family Services to have master's level therapy and counseling. The older adults do not have to pay for these services. She said that MFS was asking for services to serve 12 clients with 72 counseling sessions. While MFS's funding request has increased, because they serve more clients, the cost per client has decreased. Ms. Frisch said that so far this year, there has been an increase in reports of elder abuse in Evanston. Three years ago there were 50 reports from Evanston; last year there were 127 reports. She added that last December every Evanston police officer went through elder abuse training. MFS has developed outreach in other languages to reach those communities. The focus in the next year will be on banks and financial exploitation issues. Ms. Frisch said that Evanston has a right to be proud of how the different agencies work together. The Legal Assistance Foundation has a person that comes to MFS monthly for multi- disciplinary team meetings, and a LAF lawyer came to a meeting recently to speak on predatory lending and quit claim deeds. Ms. Frisch stated that the outcome for all of their clients us they have had risk levels either reduced or maintained. All have shown good outcomes. Ms. Frisch gave several examples of the people that MFS has helped. Without CDBG funding MFS would not be able to give this service for free. Ms. Frisch gave the Elder Abuse Prevention Services program phone number as 847-328-2404; after hours 1-800-274-0400. In reply to a question from Horace Payne, Ms. Frisch stated that they do go into different retirement centers and talk to residents and leave brochures. ' A5 -Evanston Ecumenical Action Council/EEAC Hospitality Center Sue Murphy, Director of the Hospitality Center for the Homeless stated that they have been developing a mentoring program for people who are residing in the overnight shelter with people in the community. Their goal is to help people fit into the community after they leave the Shelter and Hospitality Center. They are referred to the Center by the caseworkers in Hilda's Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23, 2001 Pape Five Place. The1 are then matched with people who have had some training through Ms. Murphy and outside facilitators to help the homeless person. In the past, the problem has been that by the time they are referred to EEAC and are matched with a mentor there has not been a lot of time to develop a relationship, so they leave the shelter and, often the mentor. Working with the people in charge of the warming shelters. people see the homeless once a week for five months, can get to know the person and establish a relationship with that person, and hopefully will continue to trust them when they leave the shelter. Currently there are eight people who are being mentored. Aid. Rainey asked how people could contact the Center if they want to volunteer. Ms. Murphy said that most volunteers come through the churches, but they can call her at 869-0370 from 7 - 11 a.m. Monday - Friday. Aid. Rainey inquired as to what was the longest period of time that someone has been mentored so far. Ms. Murphy said approximately two years. Aid. Rainey asked if Ms. Murphy had information regarding whether the people being mentored were still homeless. Ms. Murphy said that they were not still homeless. Aid. Rainey asked if the mentors do reports on their cases. his. Murphy said that they do report to her and she keeps a record of that information. Aid. Kent mentioned that there is a gap in time for a client to get to the point that they are with EEAC's Hospitality Center and asked if that has improved. Ms. Murphy said that the reason for the gap is the caseworkers at Hilda's Place want to be sure that person is stable before they match them with a member of the community. She added that EEAC is trying to work through that gap by using the warming centers where there are other people around to assist not just a one-on-one meeting. Aid. Rainey asked if any money is given to the person being mentored? Ms. Murphy said that CDBG funds are spent on training sessions for the mentor, training materials and events for the clients and mentors to get together. Aid. Rainey said her understanding was that, anybody who is a guest at Hilda's Place can then be a guest at the Hospitality Center, however, not all of those people can be part of the mentoring program. Judith Treadway asked how many of the 12 people that the EEAC Hospitality Center has helped were Evanston residents. Ms. Murphy replied that approximately one-third were Evanston residents and all were Hilda's Place residents. A3 - Connections for the Homeless/Entry Point Will Sunblad, introduced Kevin Faus, Coordinator of the Entry Point program and Kevin Mott, President of the Connections board of directors. Mr. Sunblad stated that their phone number is 1-800439-6691, if you want to volunteer you can call 475-7070. Mr. Sunblad said Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23.2001 Paae Six that Connections has received a renewable plan from HUD and part of Connections ability to receive funding requires that they have a local match for this year and the next three years. He added that CDBG funding can count as part of that local match. Mr. Sunblad stated that Entry Point is a 24-hour outreach program that responds to the needs of homeless individuals and families in the Evanston area. The outreach staff often engage the homeless people where they are - streets, local businesses, parks, or woods. He said they respond to calls from the police, hospitals, concerned residents and via the 1-800 number. go into the community, engage the people they find, try to assess them and find out what their needs are and make referrals to places that can help them. Mr. Sunblad said that it is not always easy when you come into contact with someone with severe and persistent mental illness or long-term addictions to alcohol or drugs. Many of these people have been previously involved in social service areas and have not been successful. When they meet the outreach staff, they have had a very negative experience and are often mistrusting and paranoid. Entry Point staff tries to meet these people where they are, offer them the ability to come to the shelter, and get a warm meal, shower, do their laundry. If they are still leery, staff will go to the woods or park and gives them a bag of clothes or some canned goods and tries to develop a trust level so that eventually they will come into the shelter and get help. Mr. Sunblad said that Entry Point reaches out to the social services in the community, the police and Northwestern University. Since Entry Point's inception in 1999 they have received 70 referrals from the Evanston Police, 60 referrals from Evanston social service agencies and almost 60 referrals from the two Evanston hospitals. Judith Treadway asked if Entry Point would be maintaining the transitional housing previously requested CDBG funding. She also asked whether the number of units for which Connections has is has expanded. As of now, there are have 7 apartments and 10 transitional families being served in that program. Mr. Sunblad said that it is easier to receive funding for families and children from the funders and that is why Connections has turned their attention to trying to get funding for individual homeless people. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how big the homeless problem was in Evanston and what percentage of that population is being served. Mr. Sunblad replied that last year they served over 197 clients. He added that there are approximately 30 to 70 people who are sleeping on the streets in Evanston each night and Entry Point is familiar with 85% to 95% of those people. There has been some kind of contact with them either through Entry Point outreach workers meeting with them in the streets or other various agencies referring people to Entry Point. The most growing need is families with children. There are no shelters for families in Evanston. Aid. Rainey wondered, if because of the work done by Entry Point, Mr. Sunblad has communicated with any other service networks in other communities to talk about them taking on some of this burden. Also, did Mr. Sunblad think that Evanston is such a caring community that it attracts homeless people it otherwise would not otherwise have to serve? Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23. 2601 Page Seven Mr. Sunblad said that he does communicate with other agencies and they often run into the same problems Evanston does - there is just not enough help and often they meet resistance in the community. Mr. Sunblad said that he does not think that people come to Evanston because there is another network. If people come to Evanston from other communities, Entry Point tries to get them services in the community they are from. Kenneth Rodgers asked the average age/scx of the homeless person. Air. Sunblad said that of 197 clients, 122 were male and 75 were female. 110 of the 122 males were between the ages of 20 - 59. The typical pattern of the client they are serving is an African -American or Caucasian male in his 30's to 40's with mental illness or addiction problem. In reply to a question from Judith Treadway, Mr. Sunblad said that after 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. the way to get in touch with an outreach worker would be through the police department. Outreach workers focus on the downtown area, alley ways, parks, lakefront and try to be a presence in the Evanston Library, both of the main book stores downtown, Fountain Square and in the winter they hope to be more of a presence in the warming centers. Entry Point already has a presence in the soup kitchens. It was Aid. Rainey's and Aid. Kent's opinion that there is a definite need for Entry Point's services, but that Entry Point needs to get its name and services information more widely known. A9 - Haitian American Community Center/HACA Education do Training Program Lionel Chery, Executive Director of the Haitian American Community Association (HACA), gave HACA's phone numbers 847-869-1140 and 773-764-2209. Mr. Chery said that HACA has been active in the Rogers Park area since 1992 where their headquarters are located. HACA has also opened an office at the First Haitian Baptist Church in Evanston. HACA also plans to open a branch office at the Family Focus Family Center. HACA's target audience is minorities, immigrants, low-income individuals, and at -risk youth. HACA offers services to minorities and immigrants in the areas of housing assistance, integration, translation, social service (food pantry), legal services, counseling youth services and language assistance. The program that HACA is requesting CDBG funding for is to work with 150 youth between 15 - 20 years old in the area of life skills, computer skills, internet skills and family skills. HACA is planning to work with the Digital Opportunity Coalition (headed by Andy Vass) in providing computer training to clients. Studies have shown that most low-income youth do not have computers at home and because of this, are at a disadvantage when entering the job market. Although these youths are usually better educated than their parents, they face major challenges such as youth violence, gangs, drug abuse, high crime rates, job discrimination, and a high dropout rate. The program HACA is proposing is unique in two ways. HACA opens its program to anyone living in Evanston, however special attention is paid to minorities and immigrants. The second area is HACA visits the homes. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23, 2001 Page Eieht Andy Vass. President and founder of Digital Opportunities Coalition, said that a community -based network of indi%iduals and corporations. neighborhood associations and people in government is needed to match resources; to bring volunteers, computer hardware and connectivity to communities where people live and work; to help people whether they are disabled, a minority, or youth age 8 - 50 to get life skills and computer skills to enable them to get into the job market. Mr. Vass said he was here in an advisory capacity to Mr. Chery. Kenneth Rodgers asked if HACA had talked to the different churches in Evanston regarding programs already established. Mr. Chcry said he had not. Aid. Kent asked if Mr. Chery had talked to Districts 65 and 202 about the Haitian population they serve and their flight through the high school so they can decide and fine tune their bearings on who and what they will do with their life after high school. Mr. Chcry said that in the past, their main activities were in Rogers Paris but he will be going to District 65 and District 202. Judith Treadway asked if Mr. Chcry knew about programs that other agencies are involved in. Mr. Chery said that he did, but he said that HACA would be going to the youth's home and address issues with families. Aid. Rainey asked where this program is actually functioning. Mr. Chery said that their address is 1637 West Morse, Chicago, IL. Currently, the Rogers Park location does not provide the services that are in the proposal tonight. HACA will start the program when HACA moves to Evanston. A14 Westside Citizens District CountillEvianvon Westside Work Based SNU Program Bettye Palmer, member of the Westside Citizens District Council, gave her phone number as 947-329-0967. She said they are in need of volunteers and donations. The Westside Citizens District Council is requesting CDBG public services funds to start a work -based skill -training program for 100 high school dropouts and young adult ex -offenders. The program will be offered at 3 sites: 1817 Church Sueet. 2311 Main Street and 1915 Greenleaf. Funds will be spent on uniforms, study books, and computer access. Ms. Palmer mentioned several businesses which have agreed to train the young people Kenneth Rodgers asked if Ms. Palmer had contacted only Evanston companies. She said that they had spoken with only Evanston companies, but would take help from anyone. He said he had several companies in mind that would help. David Schoenfeld said that on PS5, seven entities were listed. He asked what the specific rolls of the collaborators would be. Ms. Palmer said that E-Tropolis Evanston provides some computer software, T. J. Leone is a software developer for Northwestern University and has been working with her on developing mapping software; he will be a trainer. Professor Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23. 2001 Paee NitLe Rashinsky is also a trainer who deals with social skills as well as simulations, E&L Auto Rebuilder is an employer and «11l be providing training and space for the Skill Program. Neil Davidson Construction Company has been helping with the building at 1817 Church Stint. Mr. Davidson said he would be providing construction training, and when the people complete their training they will be eligible to be an apprentice and get a union card. Judith Treadway asked how Ms. Palmer arrived at the 100 clients she listed in her proposal. leis. Palmer said that it was an estimate. Aid. Rainey asked what would happen if the Westside Citizens District Council did not get the $120,000 State of Illinois grant? Ms. Palmer said that the program would still go on. These funds will be used for a stipend that trainees would receive based on the commitment they make. Aid. Jean -Baptiste stated that out of the discussion here tonight, he understood what was real important was that we try to find ways to help our youth, that we also not only build additional institutions but fix those institutions that are broken. He suggested that some advocacy component be worked on in order to troubleshoot the problems at the high school level and throughout the school system. A24 Westside Citizens District Council/Evanston Black American Heritage Noose Bettye Palmer said the building (1817 Church Street) was transferred to the Westside Citizens District Council (WCDC) this summer. She explained the plans for the building's remodeling. Judith Treadway asked if the office space Ms. Palmer referred to was planned for the building was for the WCDC or would they rent it out. Ms. Palmer said that space would be for WCDC. A18 Child Care Center of EvanstonlBuilding Renovation Helen Roberts -Evans, Executive Director of the Child Care Center of Evanston (Center) thanked the Committee for their past support. She said that the Center began in 1944 in the basement of the First Church of God located on Simpson and Ashland, outgrew that space and moved to the basement of the Congregational Church on Hinman while they looked for a permanent home. In 1969 they bought their present facilities at 1840 Asbury. The Center currently serves 94 - 3, 4 and 5 year old children. There is also a home day care office at the same location where 114 children are served in 120 licensed home day care homes. 65% of those children are subsidized with certificates through the Illinois Department of Human Services. Most families are low and moderate income, the Child Care Center also provides 14 scholarships for families that have just gone over the income guidelines. There are currently 12 children who have scholarships from the Center. The 1840 Asbury building is also used as an offsite campus for Oakton Community College. This fall a class was taught at the Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23.2001 Page Ten Center by Oakton and Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies. There are parent support meetings at the Center, parent education series, and a parent committee that meets at the Child Care Center. Programs in the community also use the Center as a meeting place. Ms. Robens-Evans stated that the request is for doors that need to be replaced and damage in the basement. However, the major part of the request is for restoration or rebuilding of the 3-story addition/restoration on the back of the building. Ms. Roberts -Evans passed out pictures of the back of the building, showing the deterioration. Aid. Rainey mentioned that the Committee did go by the Child Care Center on a tour a few weeks ago. A22 Infant Welfare Society of Evanston/Building Rehab at Baby Toddler Nwsery Wendy Smith, Development Director at the Infant Welfare Society of Evanston (IWS), stated that they have operated in Evanston since 1913 at 2200 Main Street. They have conducted a variety of programming for the children of families of low-income in Evanston. 30 years ago IWS opened Baby Toddler Nursery, which was the first licensed child care program for infants and toddlers in Illinois and the second in the nation. Ms. Smith said that IWS would like to construct sound absorbing walls in classrooms of Baby Toddler Nursery. The walls would reduce the noise and visual stimulation in six classrooms where approximately 100 high -risk infants and toddlers from low-income families in Evanston are enrolled each year. Aid. Rainey asked if there were any openings in the Nursery. Ms. Smith said that they have a waiting list; she gave the phone number 947-491-9650. Aid. Kent asked how many bids the Nursery received for the sound baffling. Ms. Smith replied that this was a preliminary bid, and it was her understanding that she would have to bid this out (once grant funds were awarded). A26 - E-Town Community Venturea/ETown Community Ventures Daniel Cheifetz, represented E-Town Community Ventures and announced their phone number as 847-864-2615 and e-mail infoueto«ncv.org. Mr. Cheifetz introduced the other members of the leadership council, Paul Wallace, Lonnie Wilson, Nell Logan, Patrick Bolar, Gabriel Cheifetz, Tasha Wilson - Leadership Evanston, and Steve Frazier with the Digital Opportunity Coalition. Mr. Cheifetz said the E-Town Community Ventures is new in Evanston. He showed the Committee a map of the land that E-Town Community Ventures now owns. Plans for this land Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23, 2001 Paee Eleven include a media center and local based community businesses. E-To«n Community Ventures philosophy and approach is based on coalitions. partnerships and leveraging each other. Mr. Cheifetz said that there was a two -prong strategy. one being the development of this strip west of Dodge into a vibrant center for community based micro -enterprises with quality that would attract everyone in this under -served community. Their plan to renovate the storefronts into something attractive and functional. He said that just doing small business is not enough and that Evanston needs to provide a way for young people to have internships and mentoring within small businesses. He said that their aim is not to come to the CDBG Committee every year and ask for money, their aim to make this something that generates itself, is sustainable and they won't have to come before the Committee for more than two years. Other funds are needed to help with the renovation of the property so that it can be a nice place for people to put a restaurant, media center, etc. The second application is for the utilization of one of the spaces for a media center to incorporate not only kids at ETHS but also 6. 7. & 8e' grades and to partnership with local organizations who are looking for a presence in this neighborhood. The concept of the media center was based on their understanding of what they have heard from the community. That is, a project that is based on the young people going away in some way is not the right kind of project. Unless the project addresses the needs of the young people and their families, it %%ill be a misdirected program that will not work. E-Town believes that it could provide a facility %rich 20 computers. access to the web, a digital camera, scanners and equipment and partner with organizations like the YMCA, Family Focus, etc., provide a place where people who are interested in volunteering and mentoring with all kinds of skills can work both day and evening. The projection for 1,600 served people was based on the following assumption: five slots in the media center of two hours each - program will run in one month increments - so 100 people a day x 10, add 400 students and 100 older people to learn how to use the web. Aid. Jean -Baptist complemented the E-Town initiative for taking what was a discussion several months ago and moving to make this a serious project. He said that one of the goals of the City Council is to do something about Church and Dodge, and this kind of development is important. He asked to what extent is the high school and District 65 willing to participate in any of the effort to make sure that we have viable institutions at that location? Mr. Cheifetz replied said that he met with Superintendent Alson and the school board finance committee and presented what they had at this point. Essentially what E-Town heard from the board were two things: one was that they had heard this all before, and two, many times people come forward, give us their ideas and then disappear. Mr. Cheifetz said that it seemed that the high school had a high degree of interest after they discussed all the aspects of this program with others. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23, 2001 Pane Twelve Aid. lean -Baptist asked to what extent the skills that will be built as a result of this program will relate to the business community. Nfr. Cheifetz said that last year they ran a program at a foundation where they took a small number of young people that were just going to high school and exposed them to computers and digital technology. The students had never done any of this before, but they got excited and started investigating more about the technology. Mr. Cheifetz said that not everyone wants to be a graphic designer or web master, and that is why the enterprise side of this project is so important. E-Town will be employing young people to do some of the demolition and renovation work to get ready for this project. He said that people are needed to connect our youth in worst situations where they can see how you make real money, in a legal way, and how it feels good to go home after getting paid, and be responsible in this world. David Schoenfeld stated that E-Tower's application identifies their project as far -profit and not -for -profit undertaking. Mr. Cheifetz said that their application would be changed to not - for -profit. Mr. Schoenfeld asked why this Committee should contribute to this enterprise when it seems that E-Town has a broad financial base already? For the CD Committee to give &town money, it would be taking money away from other projects, where, if they don't receive CDBG assistance, their proposal will not be funded at all. Mr. Cheifetz replied that of all the communities in Evanston that deserve some attention on the part of the city, and some intervention in terms of funding, it is the fifth ward. Another reason is that E-Town's current funding source is bone dry and now money is needed to go forward. Aid. Kent asked whether E-Town had overextended itself. Mr. Cheifetz said that what they are applying for are the resources needed to develop the area west of Dodge. Aid. Kent asked if the program coordinator, coordinator assistant, and the site manager would be full time employees. Mr. Cheifetz said that they would be full time employees. Aid. Rainey stated that in the two proposals, the first one is overseeing the operation of the property of 1900 Church Street. The second proposal deals with personnel having to do with operating the training center. Mr. Cheifetz said that the second proposal dealt with the media center, the two staff and computer acquisition. Aid. Rainey asked how Mr. Cheifetz saw E-Town's proposal as a competitor for the previous presenter for the Heritage House and to the Evanston Media Center. Mr. Cheifetz said that the focus of the training is different. E-Town's focus is not on getting jobs; but thinks it can be complementary to the Media Center, and the number of people who need these services are so large that you could put a media center in every other block, and not saturate the need. Aid. Rainey asked if people would have to pay to use the media center or if it would be free. Mr. Cheifetz said that in order for them not to come back to the CD Committee every year, Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23, 200I Pape Thirteen the model is to be self -funding. This would be accomplished by providing a facility to other agencies that would pay for rental space. Aid. Rainey asked if there were prospects for the incubator space. Mr. Cheifetz said that they are putting in a recording studio, a clothing store, and a restaurant. Aid. Rainey asked if Mr. Cheifetz sees the rest of that comer (Church/Dodge) as a problem. Mr. Cheifetz said that anytime you have a older person that doesn't feel safe walking down the sidewalk you have a problem, anytime children can't go across the street you have a problem, so yes there is a problem. He felt that the solution was to put in real businesses and that the other people running their businesses will upgrade their property. The other scenario is that the City will do what it needs to do to change the situation. Judith Treadway asked what is going, to occur in the media center. Mr. Cheifetz said that the idea is to have a place with 20 computers, scanner, digital camera and training room so that young people can start to be creative. It will be a facility for other agencies to use for programs. It will also be a facility where older people can come in, learn to use the computer and learn to use e-mail. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked because of the CDBG program's limited funds, which program is a priority. Mr. Cheifetz said that he thought the priority would be the media center in terms of the proportion of dollars that are needed because those are program dollars and that program needs to get off the ground quickly. III. CITIZEN COMMENT Mimi Peterson said that she was concerned about the large amount of money that E- Town was requesting. She said the New Evanston Alliance took a bold step during the aldermanic election in placing negative advertisements about Evanston. She showed several of the advertisements. Because some of the principals involved in E-Town were also part of the New Evanston Alliance, she felt that the money should not be given to them but to other more worthy applicants. Ms. Peterson asked the Committee to not honor E-Town's request for funds. IV. STAFF COMMENT Sally Lufkin, gave the Committee a spreadsheet showing proposed reallocations of unused funds to the 2002/03 CDBG program. After discussion, Ms. Lufkin said she would have a final list for Committee approval at the November 15 meeting. Aid. Rainey said that in looking over the spreadsheet she said there were many items that needed clarification. She asked that Committee members be at the next meeting (October 30) one-half hour early to discuss these in detail. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 23.2001 Paste Fourteen V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 11:27 p.m. RespectfWly submitted, .14 Mary E aaske w HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday. October 30. 2001 6:30 P.M. — City Council Chambers Evanston Ci%ic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, David Schoenfeld. Judith Tread%ay MEMBERS ABSENT: Kenneth Rodgers HOUSING COMMISSION Matt Dillon, Vice Chair. Rob Grossinger, Bob Brooks MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m., a quorum being present. II. REVIEW OF PROPOSED REALLOCATIONS TO THE 2002/03 CDBG PROGRAM Sally Lufkin explained the criteria for putting together the proposal reallocation list: (1) reallocations are for projects or programs which have been completed, have unused funds; (2) there are left over funds in Administration/Planning and Public Services category projects, which cannot be carried over to subsequent program years; (3) CDBG funds were allocated to a projectiprogram several years ago, but no activity has taken place; and (4) grantees are under pressure from HUD to spend CDBG funds as expeditiously as possible; HUD could penalize a grantee for a slow expenditure rate. Ms. Lufkin explained that Evanston does not have a problem with meeting HUD's timeliness goal, which is keeping its balance of unspent funds below the 1.5 entitlement ratio. She added that there are some communities who have a high timeliness ratio and HUD is considering establishing sanctions against grantees who do not meet the 1.5 timeliness ratio. This could result in reductions in future CDBG funding to a community. Ms. Lufkin reviewed the listing of proposed reallocations. She said that copies of the list have been sent to the affected departments for their review. The proposed reallocations were discussed. Ms. Lufkin said that she would have a final list to present to the Committee for their approval at the November 15" meeting. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 2 111. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 17, 2001 MEETING Ms. Lufkin distributed copies of the minutes from the Committee's October 17`h meeting. Aid. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the October 17, 2001 meeting; motion seconded by Judith Treadway. The motion carried, 7-0. IV. 2002/03 CDBG PROGRAM— City of Evanston Application Review Joint Meeting with Evanston Housing Commission At this time, Aid. Rainey invited Evanston Housing Commission members to join the Committee for join the Committee to jointly review housing category applications. Housing Commission remembers in attendance were Marie Dillon, vice chair of Housing Commission, Rob Grossinger and Bob Brooks. A 10 — Interfaith Housine Center/Homesharine Pr am Executive Director Gail Schechter and Endita Carey. Interfaith Housing Center board member (and also employed by Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services), discussed Interfaith Housing Center's CDBG applications. Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs is a 29 year old not -for -profit housing agency and affordable housing advocacy organization serving 16 north suburban communities. One of the affordable housing programs sponsored by Interfaith in the Homesharing program. This program has been in existence since the mid-1980's. Homesharing's clients are people who are threatened with displacement because they cannot take care of their homes any longer, or perhaps because increased property taxes make it difficult to continue living in their homes, or the need for companionship (senior citizens or single parents). If the homeowner has an extra bedroom in their home, they are matched with people who are looking for affordable housing close to where they work Typically, 45-50 cost effective matches are made per year (fifty matches equals 100 households). One -quarter of Homesharing's matches are made in Evanston. This is the fourth year that Evanston CDBG funds have been used to support Interfaith's Homesharing program. Evanston's CDBG funds have been leveraged with and enabled Interfaith to obtain other donations, particularly from the Chicago Foundation for Women, Highland Park and a new grant from the Grand Victoria Foundation. In response to a question from Aid. Rainey, Ms. Schechter said that the Homesharing program does..try to keep track of the length of time matches last. After three months, a satisfaction t survey is sent to the clients. Some matches last for a few months, while others last for years — one match lasted seven years. Only 5% of the matches end because of reasons of incompatibility. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 3 David Schoenfeld asked how clients are screened to ensure that an abusive situation does not occur. Ms. Carey said that one of the two housing specialists interview both the homeseeker and home provider and do a background check requiring a minimum of three references. Ms. Schechter added that both of the people administering the Homesharing program have an extensive social service background. fir. Schoenfeld asked whether any follow up was done, in addition to the survey, to see how things are going for the two matched persons. Ms. Schechter said that Interfaith does not necessarily do a lot of follow up. but instead relies on clients to let _them know about dissatisfactions with their home matches. Other than in the first three months of the match, the housing office usually does not follow- up. unless there are problems or a change in the conditions of the match. Ms. Schechter concluded by saying that, while InterfaWs offices are in Winnetka, the homesharing coordinator is in Evanston on Monday mornings at the Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services office on Foster Street. All home providers are, visited by the homesharing staff, but home seekers can come to one of the two office locations. A 16 -- CEDA/Neiahbors at Work/Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance Patricia Vance, Executive Director, said that the minor repairs/painting assistance program has been offered by Neighbors at Work to Evanston homeowners for a number of years. It is the only program to Evanston which offers minor repairs, exterior painting and interior painting free of charge. This program works very closely with the City's Property Standards office in terms of delivering services. During the last year, HUD instituted lead based paint requirements and Neighbors at Work's work crews have been going through training in order to comply with the new requirements. Recently. a case has been referred to their office by the Evanston Health Department where there is evidence of lead in the home. Neighbors at Work is trying to help that homeowner with the lead abatement. The minor repairs/painting assistance program offers not only employment but training in the various aspects of minor repair, lead abatement and painting. The program is offered to low/moderate income property owners in Evanston. The main priority is to serve first senior citizens, persons with disabilities and households which have received a housing code citation from the City's Property Standards Division. An immediate referral to Neighbors at Work not only enables a homeowner to prevent deterioration of his/her property, but also enables the property owner to continue living in the Property. Ms. Vance said that at the current time, because of the number of requests, the list for exterior painting has been closed. There are enough homes on the list to be painted over the next three to four years. Each year, new citations (for exterior painting) are being added to the list and with the additional requirements which have to be met with the lead abatement, it will take staff a longer time to complete a project. Neighbors at Work is also considering the use of volunteers on some of their projects. A few months ago, Medill students assisted Neighbors at Work painting some garages. Ms. Vance said that CEDA/Neighbors at Work is requesting continued CDBG support for the minor repairs/painting assistance program. Without CDBG assistance. they cannot offer this important program to Evanston low/moderate income property owners. Funding is used mainly for program delivery costs. A small amount of CDBG funds are used to cover some administrative costs of the program, but volunteers help keep this line item cost down. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 4 Judith Treadway asked whether all projects for the current year had been completed. Ms. Vance responded that most of their projects continue year round. with the exception of exterior painting. With implementation of the lead regulations. they have completed six exterior painting projects; the targeted goal was seven. Rob Grossinger asked about the impact of the implementation of the federal lead regulations on the agency's ability to completed projects. Ms. Vance said that due to funding regulations, the number of staff has not been increased and as a result they have had to reduce the number of homes to be completed in a year. The workers attended and completed lead certification training and any new hires will also have to attend the training. Neighbors at Work approaches every job as if there were lead present in the paint, so containment is usually done instead of abatement. When lead is discovered, there are certain specifications and work procedures which must be done, i.e., special equipment, clothing. Property owners are not allowed to go into the area until the work has been completed and cleaned. If one of the inspectors finds lead, he/she is mandated by law to report it. Mark Dillon asked about the estimated unmet need in Evanston in terms of number of houses with potential lead problems and the number of houses on the waiting list. Ms. Vance said that their waiting is really just the "tip of the iceberg". Neighbors at Work does not have all of the homes; they do not do lead inspections — the Evanston Health Department does that. The Health Department is starting to make (lead based paint) referrals to their office. Because of the very old housing stock in Evanston, the City should expect a number of referrals because of the presence of lead based paint. Ms. Vance said she did not know how many houses feel into this category. Aid. Rainey asked whether the lead based paint regulations will impact the number of homes Neighbors at Work will be able to complete in a year. Ms. Vance said that the regulations are very imposing; she discussed the process for remediating lead based paint in a home. Dealing with lead based paint will slow down projects, because it will take more time to complete them after the workers deal with the lead based paint. It will also impact the property owner, who will not be able to have access to the affected room (which is sealed off during lead based paint remediation). The City has received extensions of the date for which lead based paint regulations must be implemented on federally funded housing projects (as did most communities throughout the country), but the final extension date is January 2002, so Neighbors at Work is now getting involved in lead based paint. issues associated with its minor repairs/painting assistance program. Aid. Rainey said that her fear is that the minor repairs/painting assistance program will become a lead abatement program, because of HUD's requirements. She said that the Committee will be watching the numbers next year to see how this program will be impacted. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- October 30, 2001 Page 5 C2 - Evanston Human Relations CommissionlHousingAdvocucv Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 5 Paula Haynes, Executive Director of the Human Relations Commission (HRC). presented the request for continued funding for the Housing Advocacy program. She spoke about some changes which have been made to the program, starting with the program name. She said that, histoncally, the program had been known as the Fair Housing program. because fair housing was its focus. For the past several years, the HRC has had the responsibility of administering the City's landlord/tenant ordinance. It is a critical ordinance because almost one-half of the City's housing stock is rental. In addition to fair housing and the landlord/tenant ordinance, the HRCommission works with Section 8 tenants, helping them find affordable housing throughout the City, not gust in certain areas. The HRC aIso works with the Police Department on a wide range of housing issues. Ms. Haynes said that the addition of the administration of the landIorditenant ordinance in the work of the HRC office has meant some realignment of staff responsibilities (it is a 5 person office). Currently, there arc two Human Relations Specialist positions, who are both able to oversee the same activities i.e„ landlord/tenant, fair housing complaints. Ms. Haynes said that her funding request is for 50% of the salary and fringe benefits for each of these two positions plus 33% funding for salary/fringe benefits for the Executive Secretary's position. Proposed objectives include a fair housing campaign, a review of the housing audit done in 2000, would like to hold several education seminars for housing providers. She commented on the unexpended funds in the 2000/01 Fair Housing budget, noting that those funds had been budgeted for two housing audits. One was conducted, but the second one was not, because of the disappointing results of the first housing audit. In the coming Year, the HRC will conduct a multi -faceted housing campaign, including education, some auditing, and other efforts to increase the community's awareness of fair housing and landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities. Since May, the HRC has had 13/14 fair housing complaints file in their office, which means that people who are aware of the landlord/tenant ordinance and fair housing laws, are turning to the HRC for remediation. The HRC would also like to work with realtors to develop a Section 8 certification program for Section 8.tenants in Evanston. She said that there is a belief that the housing authority conducts such training, which is not true. She commented on the concentration of Section 8 certificate holders in certain parts of the city. Ms. Haynes said that the broad perception that Section 8 tenants are irresponsible tenants, then the HRC thinks that putting on a publication education program for landlords, could help dispel this perception. Ald. Bernstein asked at what stage the HRC was in analyzing the landlordltenant ordinance. Ms. Haynes said that last week the HRC had a joint meeting with the Evanston Housing Commission at the police outpost on Howard Street. The intent of the meeting was to address concerns raised by the Evanston Property 0%vners Association last November. Also in attendance at that meeting were some renters, landlords and property owners. She said that once the landlords heard the intent of what was being proposed, their concerns were reduced. - Staff is working on a rewrite of the ordinance, which will be reviewed by the Human Relations Commission at an upcoming meeting. Once the HRC has approved the proposed changes, staff will meet with landlords and tenants and then return to the City Council's) Planning & Development Committee for their approval. Judith Treadway clarified that the HRC was opting to do more education in the coming year rather than just housing audits. Ms. Haynes responded that staff would be undertaking a multi- faceted fair housing campaign, including education about the City's landlord/tenant ordinance, fair housing laws and Section 8. She added that perhaps the junior colleges could be brought in to provide some of the Section 8 training. Ms. Treadway asked if incentives would be offered to Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page b landlords to accept Section 8 vouchers. Ms. Haynes responded that that could be a possibility, but that the HRC was just beginning to consider this program. There was further discussion about the type of things that would be included in a Section 8 certification class. Aid. Rainey concluded the discussion by stating that she hoped the HRC would find a way to require all landlords to attend education classes. She also thought that the certification program was a good idea Communitv Development Department C7 — Community Development Administration C8 — Housing Rehab Administration C9 — Housing Code Compliance C4 — Graffl1i Removal Program James Wolinski, Community Development Director, presented the four housing proposals submitted. by the Community Development Department. Community Development Administration requests CDBG funds for the support of the director's office. it is proposed that two positions (Community Development Director and Executive Secretary) will be funded 500% by the CDBG program. Housing Rehab Administration is the backbone of the City's loan programs. CDBG funding has, in the past, totally supported three full-time positions: Assistant Director, Housing Rehab Specialist and Secretary 1I. The City lends approximately S250,000 - $300,000 to low/moderate income homeowners through the several loan programs offered by the City. The programs rangc*om single-family housing rehab loans, where a family with less than 50'% of median income can receive up to 530,000 from the City in the form of a title transfer loan, which means the loan will not be due until the property is transferred. Properly owners in the 501/6 - 80*/o of median income category can apply for up to $30,000 from the City and pay an amortizing rate of one-half of the Treasury bill rate, which is probably 2% now. Multi -family loans are made, not based upon the income of the property owner, but upon the income of the tenants. There must be at least 51% of the tenants at or below HUD's median income level. A property owners can receive a loan asp to $1,500 per unit for rehabilitation. For this current year, 12 single-family homes have been completed, to date, and the installation of the fire alarm system at Primm Towers has been completed. The Housing Code Compliance program is the inspection of all rental units in Evanston, roughly 15,000 units. It is done on a cyclical basis, with each property inspected every three to four years. Violations are cited and, hopefully, the property owner brings the property into compliance before the City has to bring the owner before administrative adjudication. This program is evolving into a kind of social engineering program, as the property inspectors work in tandem with the Fire Department, Police Department, Human Relations in correcting anti -social behavior. Sometimes housing code compliance is the first action taken by the City in trying to eliminate gang bangers and drug dealers in a neighborhood. Mr. Wolinski said that violations cited against a property sometimes spur the resolution of these kinds of problems. CDBG finds are requested for two full-time inspectors who work in the CDBG Target Area, 30% funding for Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 7 three other inspectors, who also have inspections at locations within the target area, and 30% funding for two clerical positions in support of the Property Standards office. The funding request for the City's Graffiti Removal Program pays for 500/6 of the salary and fringe benefits for the Graffiti Technician/Sign Inspector's position, with the other 501/o being paid from the City's general fund. The Graffiti Technician removes between 2,SDD•— 3,000 sites of graffiti throughout the year. It is part of the City's ongoing program to remove all graffiti from public property. The City also has a private contractor, who removes graffiti on private property. Graffiti is removed at no cost to the property owner. Aid. Rainey wondered if the City has conducted a "sting" for spray paint purchases by minors. She said that the City Council had enacted an ordinance forbidding the sale of spray paint to minors. Mr. Wolinski said that a "sting" for spray paint has not been conducted. Aid. Rainey recommended that one be done, for there is a lot of graffiti on playground equipment, etc. She said that she is not certain that young children are the perpetrators of some of the graffiti, but would like to try to curb it through enforcing the ordinance. Aid. Rainey commented on the outstanding service of the Graffiti Technician; she said that probably many in the community are not aware that the City performs this services. She said that graffiti which has been reported to the Graffiti Technician is cleaned up the next day. Mark Dillon asked whether the City received assistance from the Union Pacific RR in removing graphite from train stations. Mr. Wolinski commented that the City has been working with Union Pacific and the CTA to clean up stations. Those organizations have their own staff which cleans graffiti on their schedule. Unfortunately, the stations are favorite targets of taggers and graffiti artists. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether the department was proactive in marketing the various housing programs or do people in Evanston come to the City with requests and loan programs. Mr. Wolinski said that the City promotes itself through enforcement. As the City enforces its housing code, it is also able to offer information about the various housing rehab loan programs to assist the property owner. Twice a year, the property inspectors do visual surveys of single-family home neighborhoods in Evanston. Single-family homes' interiors are not inspected by Property Standards inspectors. if there are violations on garages and houses which need painting, notices are sent to the property owners, along with a packet of information in various programs offered by the City for correction of property code violations. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what percentage of the rehab loans are made to senior citizens. Mr. Wolinski responded that the majority of the single-family rehab loans are made to, senior citizens, mainly because these families are able to take advantage of the title transfer loans. Housing & Communih• Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30. 2001 Page 8 Aid. dean -Baptiste also asked about families who are faced with foreclosure. Mr. Wolinski said that foreclosures are a difficult problem to address. However, if the foreclosure is the result of predatory lending activity, the City's Housing Planner can investigate those types of issues. If a property owner is in foreclosure, it is somewhat difficult to helpAf a building is in foreclosure, it would be high risk for the City to approve a loan to the property owner. Ald. Rainey added that CEDA/Neighbors at Work offers HUD counseling. She asked whether a person in foreclosure could be referred to HUD or CEDA downtown for assistance. Ms. Vance responded that people could call her office and they will make a referral. Ms. Treadway asked whether there was an increase in the eligibility income level for the firs* time homebuyer program. Mr. Wolinski said the income boundaries had to be increased because of annual inflation at a rate of 34% per year. Concerning the police officers first-time homebuyer program, Mr. Wolinski said that two police officers have recently applied for loans. Ms. Treadway asked whether the property owner must have previous home loans paid off before applying to the City for a housing rehab loan. Mr. Wolinski said that payoff of prior loans is not a pre -requisite. The City often is in second and third position on some loans. The City's loan is secured by the equity in the property. Aid. Rainey suggested that the City consider offering rehab loans to condominium owners. Health and Human Services Department C 10 -- Handyman Program C 1 I — Adaptive Devices far Accessibility Jay Terry, Director of Health and Human Services, said that his department was applying for renewal funding for the City's Handyman program. The Handyman program is a partnership between the Department of Health and Human Services and CEDA/Neighbors at Work. It provides light home maintenance for older adults who need assistance. It helps older adults remain in their homes as well as maintain them. Intake is done by the staff of the Commission on Aging (he introduced the City's long-term care ombudsman, Nancy Flowers), and evaluated. As jobs are approved, the City has a contract with Neighbors at Work for the handyman's services. The program has been very successful and information about it is often by word of mouth. It's been the practice to only request funds when they are needed; the last CDBG funding request was made to the Committee three years ago. It is anticipated that the Commission will need additional funds to carry out the Handyman program through FY 2002/03. One things requested in the application is for funding for the program to provide snow shoveling, leaf raking and yard maintenance. Those tasks are not covered in the agreement. The last major snowstorm in the City, Nancy Flowers was able to put together a volunteer corps of snow shovelers for older adults. It is the Commission's wish to have these services become Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 9 components of the services offered ky the City to senior citizens. Details have not yet been worked out, but Mr. Terry said that he would like to be able to offer these three services, either through volunteers, or through the Handyman program. The part-time staff position, requested in the Handyman program's request for CDBG funding is to coordinate these types of services for older residents. Jay Terry clarified why handyman senices were not currently being offered to tenants, just to single-family property owners. Mr. Terry said that the Adaptive Devices for Accessibility is a program which has evolved from input received from members of the Citizens Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities and staff of the Community Development and Health and Human Services departments. There is not a tremendous amount of accessible housing in Evanston. Short of significant renovation of a property, there is not going to be accessibility provided. Adaptability is a good interim step v. making a building accessible. He said that there are a number of devices and aids that individuals can access which will make their housing more functional. The proposal is to put on a pilot program, where the City can be in a position where it can offer vouchers redeemable at local vendors for adaptive devices. (A listing of sample adaptive devices was distributed to the Committee.) This program would be operated in a similar manner to others offered by the department, in which vouchers are issued for purchases at local vendors. One of the details to be worked out is whether the program can be offered to tenants. Mr. Terry said that certainly more tenants are in situations where they need adaptive aids, so staff will consider this option. Judith Treadway asked the process in verifying the need for an adaptive device. Mr. Terry said that a home visit would be necessary. W. Treadway asked if the City was doing regarding exterior adaptability i.e. ramps for their home? Mr. Terry replied that James Wolinski was exploring the possibility of portable ramping. Mr. Wolinski said that his department was looking in to this as part of the loan program. Ald. Kent asked if this program would be just scratching the surface of what people with disabilities would need? Mr. Terry said that a major housing renovation/rehabilitation program is something beyond the City's financial scope. This program is to help people that identify one or two things they need to help them. Ald. Kent looked at P3 and said that the grab -bars mentioned could be picked up at participating stores and asked what the incentive would be for the handicapped person to pick up the grab -bar wfien they couldn't install it themselves. Mr. Terry replied that there is a small amount of money in the proposal for the handyman services. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 10 Ald. Rainey thanked the Housing Commission for participating in tonight's meeting. CS - Fire Department/Fire Safety/Public Education Safety House Alan Berkowsky, Fire Marshall of the City of Evanston, introduced Fire Chief, John Wilkinson, and Firefighter Bob Nelson. Mr. Nelson handed out additional information to the Committee on the Public Education Safety Hou.;c. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that education is a powerful tool in fighting fires, and a potential lifesaver. In the safety fair in June 2000 at the high school, the Fire Department rented a Safety House at a cost of $600. He said that it was a big hit with the children and the general population that attended the fair. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that it was well know that the best way to educate a person is by practical experience than by a lecture or handwt. The safety trailer will allow the Fire Department to bring the classroom to the community, and to teach children as well as all age groups what to do in the event of a fire. He said that the Fire Department also intends to use the trailer to train senior citizens. This is a program from the National Fire Association. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that it was very difficult to motivate people to come to a classroom, but with trailer the Fire Department would be able to take the classroom to the public. He played a video for the Committee showing a Public Education Safety House. Firefighter Bob Nelson said that the Evanston Fire Department recognizes the need for a proactive approach when it comes to lire and injury prevention. However, since I981 the fire problem in the United States has remained the same. He asked the Committee to look at the back of the handouts for fire statistics. Mr. Nelson said that the S600 charge that the Fire Department paid to rent a safety house included personnel to run the program. He felt that the City would be able to rent their own Safety House and personnel to other communities. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that he can go into a class and spend forty-five minutes teaching the children about fire safety and it would not be as good as five minutes in the safety house seeing, feeling and doing. Judith Treadway asked the capacity of a safety house at one time. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that you can take a class of 17 - 20 and while half sit on the bleachers the other half can go through the house. Ms. Treadway asked how many firefighters it takes to operate a safety house. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that it would take two firefighters. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page I Ms. Treadway asked if Fire Marshall Berkowsky knew how many times the safety house would be used in the next fiscal year. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that there would be many opportunities to use this safety house in the coming year. David Schoenfeld asked if Fire Marshall Berkowsky had thought about sharing the funding for this safety house with other communities. Fire Marshall Berkowsky said that he could justify the City of Evanston funding the safety house by itself. Horace Payne asked the annual maintenance cost. Firefighter Bob Nelson said there isn't very much that goes wrong with a motor home. C6 - Police Department/Senior Crime Prevention RhTrram Amanda Jones, Senior Crime Prevention Specialist with the Evanston Police Department said that she was a civilian part-time temporary employee. She said that this particular program was created by Chief Kaminski in the calendar year 1998 because he was looking at population statistics of people over 60. According to the 2000 census the population of people over 60 is 10, 394 people. 40% of those people are in community development block grant development areas, living alone in single-family units or multi -family units. Ms. Jones said that these people tend to be under -served and the crimes that they suffer tend to have much more catastrvpWc effects than on someone younger. In Illinois there are criminal statutes that increase penalties if the offender commits a crime on someone over 60 years old By August 2001, Ms. Jones had been in contact with over 1100 people. She said she is trying to contact at least 2,000 people a year. Ms. Jones said that currently she is working 30 hours a week and explained that will eat up her grant of S 15,000 very shortly. She said she was asking for three things: one is time, one is money that is closer to fair market value; secondly, the Senior Crime Prevention Manual that she wrote and now needs to be reprinted; thirdly, the file of life - a magnetized pocket that fits on the refrigerator (also comes in Spanish), where a senior citizen can keep all their pertinent medicallmedication information available for any medical personnel that needs it. Judith Treadway asked if Ms. Jones would be assisting the senior citizens in filling out the medical information on the cards. Ms. Jones said that she would. A1d. Kent asked if there is anything more that is on the creative end of the spectrum right now that might get M's. Jones into the homes of independent living citizens. Ms. Jones said that one of the ways she tries to accomplish this is by having agencies like Meals On Wheels to distribute information about her program, social service agencies tell their clients about her program and police officers have been very helpful in giving out her name and number to the senior citizens Homing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 200I Page 12 that call them. Ms. Jones said she goes to the Farmers Market, goes to safety fairs, anyplace there will be a senior citizen. She said that she had many ideas for future ways to get the information known. Ms. Jones said that elder abuse is where domestic violence was 15 years ago, it is a highly under- reported crime. She felt that this was because, in addition to the physical abuse, the other components are not taken into account; namely, financial exploitation (which is the number one crime against elderly people), emotional abuse, passive neglect (which in children is called "failure to thrive'), malnutrition, and isolation. These are all components of elder abuse. The more reports she receives of elder abuse is proof she is doing her job. C3 - Finance Department/Minodo, Women, Evanston Business Program Lloyd Shepard, Business Development Coordinator for the M/W/EBE program, gave a report of the programs conducted this year. A Vendor Fair on September 25 at the Civic Center was attended by 125 vendors. The City will be cosponsoring a vendor fair with Northwestern University on November 8, 2001. He said that he has just completed the narrative for a brochure and a web page, which will help to expand the outreach program effort. Mr. Shepard said the design phase of those projects will start soon. Mr. Shepard will be involved in the Sherman Avenue Plaza development and helping them hire minority and women owned businesses in Evanston. He added that his office will also be seeking M/W1EBE companies to meet the requirements of the Purchasing Department. The total contracts awarded by City Council for the physical year 2000/2001 are 512,828,507, of which 54,366,479, or 34% of the total contract awards, was awarded to M/W/EBE companies. The total economic impact of all expenditures for the City Council, Purchasing Department and redevelopment projects was: City Council total awards: 512,828,507. Purchasing Department awarded 534,612,709; and redevelopment awarded 572,091,697. The total dollars spent was Sl 19,532,913. Total M/W/EBE participation was 523,230,1.72 or 19.4%. Aid. Rainey asked why the establishment of some sort of directory or database was taking so long. Mr. Shepard said that the Purchasing Department has a database of M(W/EBE companies. A directory of M/W/EBE companies is in process, but due to the limited amount of time he can spend on this project, it is a slow process. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that one of the Committee's concerns is that there was an allocation of funds for some support staff' for Mr. Shepard and asked if he had hired anyone. Mr. Shepard said that he had not, but part of his current request is for a support person. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 13 Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if Mr. Shepard kept a list of what minority firms had been awarded a contract. Mr. Shepard said he did not. currently the documentation that the City requires does not have a line item for that information. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Shepard to provide the Committee with a sample of the forms that contractors have to maintain and submit to the City before the next CD meeting. Aid. Kent asked if Mr. Shepard was aware of any minority contractors that were getting jobs outside of Evanston as a result of firms here using them. Mr. Shepard said he was aware of a few minority firms that were getting work outside of Evanston. Aid. Rainey stated that the City of Evanston should package work in smaller packages so that besides the big firms getting the work, small firms could also be getting some of this work. Ald. Bernstein asked why there was approximately $37,000 remaining in his budget and asked if there were plans to spend it in this fiscal year. Mr. Shepard said that he just found out about that money; the high balance was because he had been on unpaid leave for three months and a staff' support person had never been hired. C19 - Evanston Public Library/Relocation oJSoulh Branch Neal Ney, Director of the Evanston Public Library, said he was requesting- $430,300 to be added with funds provided by the developer of the Evanston Place Shopping Center to pay for the design and build -out of a branch library in the Evanston Plaza shopping center located at Dempster and Dodge. These funds, along with funds provided by the Evanston plaza shopping center will be used to pay for the design and build -out of the branch library and for the cost of --moving the south branch library from its current location to Dempster/Dodge. The new branch will be centrally located in the Community Development Block Grant Area, and is (Target Area), in fact, the busiest location in that part of town. The new facility will have the capacity for 25,000 volumes, provide seating for 30 library visitors and also have program space for children's programs for up to 50 people or meeting space for approximately 20 adults. He added that the new branch would be handicapped accessible. Judith Treadway asked what percentage of the planned budget for the South Branch (should they close) would be moved to the new library at the Dempster/Dodge Plaza. Mr. Ney said that the South Branch would be operating for ten months of the next year. It is proposed that the grant under consideration would cover the last two months rent as well as the next year. Ms. Treadway asked if the community will be involved in the design. Mr. Ney said that a building program has to be prepared and be presented to an architect. He added that he fully expects to have community involvement in the library program. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 14 David Schoenfeld asked if the three months rent asked for in the proposal shouldn't be in the operating budget. 4ir. Ney replied that it would be in the operating budget the next Year. Aid. Berstein how many square feet would be in the proposed Dempster/Dodge Branch. Mr. Ney replied that there would be approximately 6,500 sq. ft. In reply to a question from Aid. Bernstein, he said that the square footage for the current branch on Chicago Avenue is 3,000 sq. ft. The rent is approximately 545,000 a year. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if there were any other sources of funds available for this project. Mr. Ney said that the Illinois State Library administers some construction grants for public libraries, but to be eligible for those grants, a 50-year lease must be signed. He did talk with State Representative Hamos about the possibility of Illinois First funds. She did not know whether those funds would be available this year. Mr. Ney said he has not heard anything further from her and so he didn't know if those funds would be available. Aid. Bernstein asked if Mr. Ney would be hiring any more staff for the new branch library. Mr. Ney said he would not, with the new configuration of the new library, there would be no need to hire additional staff. C12 Paris, Forestry & Recreation/FkdwoodlJourdain Locker Room mid L� Doug Gaynor, Director of Parks, Forestry & Recreation, said the proposal for Fleetwood/Jourdain was two -fold. One is an accessibility issue to provide an elevator'or, , lift to get to the second floor of Fleetwood, where there is a gallery/exhibit area; and the second part of that proposal is a renovation of the locker rooms and shower facility at Fleetwood/Jourdain. He explained that the lockers are approximately 45 years old and are in need of renovation. Mamie Smith said that Fleetwood/Jourdain appreciates the support given by the CDBG Committee fbi the past 17 years. With those funds they have been able to almost rebuild the building. Ms. Smith said that an elevator would provide full accessibility for the gallery on the Second floor. David Schoenfeld said that last year Fleemood/Jourdain was given funds for some fitness equipment. He said that because the CD Committee gave Fleetwood/Jourdain approximately one-third of the requested funds, has Flectwood/Jourdain found the remaining funds elsewhere. Doug Gaynor said that several years ago, Fleetwood/Jourdain negotiated with Sprint to put a tower behind their building and the agreement was that the funds that came from the lease with Sprint would go to a capital development fund for Fleetwood. It is that money that will be used to make up the difference for the fitness equipment. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 15 C13 - Public Works Department/Alley Paving C14 - Public Works Department/Alley Resurfacing C15 - Public Works Department/1001 Accessible Curb Ramp (ADA) Program C16 - Public Works Department/Block Curb and Sidewalk C17 - Public Works Department/Street Light Upgrade Program David Jennings, Director of Public Works, passed out a 1996-2001 record of selected public works projects, in response to Ald. Rainey's request for history of the above projects. In the Alley Paving Program, the City uses CDBG funds for the City's share of special assessment alley paving. Based on the length and width and drainage required, it costs approximately $ 100,000 to pave an alley. He said that currently there are no active alley petitions in The Target Area. However, the City is currently aggressively marketing the alley paving program. Mr. Jennings mentioned that the City did not get funding last year for alley paving. Mr. Jennings stated the City has not done alley resurfacing in a few years. This is not a 50150 program, but maintenance of alleys that have deteriorated by putting a new coat of asphalt on them. He said that the City is in the process of doing an inventory of the alleys and will identify alleys to be resurfaced as part of that program. Mr. Jennings reported that two contracts, totaling approximately $36,000, have been done on the Accessible Curb Ramp (ADA) Program so far. This program was funded at 550,000 in 2001 /02. He said he is using the program that %as developed through CDBG to identify ramps that need replacing. Approximately 60 ramps will be done this year. The Block Curb & Sidewalk program was not funded last year. This is not a 50/50 program, citizens do not pay anything. This program pays for the cost of replacing deteriorated curbs and sidewalks in the CDBG Target Ana - Mr. Jennings said that the Street Light Upgrade Program is budgeted at 556,086 in the current year, and the City is requesting $ 100,000 for 2002/03. This is part of a program to upgrade and change over the City's residential street lighting from mercury vapor street lighting to induction lighting. The City has done a trial project using induction lighting in the past few years. They have not needed service at all. 1t will bring the City up to the lighting level that was designed when the lights were installed twenty years ago at about half the power consumption than we are currently using. Mr. Jennings said that the City will be doing the work in-house instead of contracting it out, to save money. There are approximately 5,500 streetlights throughout the City, and it will cost approximately 5400 a piece to upgrade to a induction lighting system. The money requested for this project would be spent in the Target Area. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 30, 2001 Page 16 Aid. Rainey asked if the money requested for the curb program was for the Target Area only. Mr. Jennings replied that funds for ADA improvements were eligible to be used City -aide. Aid. Rainey said that she hoped that Mr. Jennings is requesting money from CIP as well. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that since the City has not received any petitions to pave alleys from the Target Area, perhaps advertising should be considered. Mr. Jennings said that there was a brochure that would go out in the next "Highlights" that will describe the Alley Paving Program and the benefits associated with it. The City %ill also explain to homeowners exactly what their estimated payment portion would be. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if the cost would be included in this packet. Mr. Jennings said that would not be possible. The City starts working on the cost estimate for a project, when a homeowner petitions for their alley to be paved. The Committee discussed the problems connected with alley paving, including absentee landlords and low -middle income people who cannot afford to pay half the cost of paving their alley. 18 - Community Development Department/Adapt a Fancy Can This is a pilot program in which 15 attractive 32-gallon litter receptacles will be purchased and placed on (CDBG Target Area) parkways where currently there are unattractive oilcans. Property owners can request a fancy can, and are given 100 litter bags. These property -owners become responsible for emptying the fancy cans putting in new bags. Aid. Kent asked if this was a replacement type of project where a person would have to have an oil drum to trade in for the fancy. can? Mr. Lufkin said she did not think that would be a prerequisite. Ms. Lufkin said that if the property owner who adopted the fancy can does not fulfill their obligation to remove the litter, the can will be removed and given to another property owner. C20 Community Development Department/ Neighborhood Starejrnnl Improvement Program Ms. Lufkin said that the Neighborhood Storefront Improvement program is an Economic Development Improvement program offered to property owners within the CDBG neighborhood business districts. CDBG funds can be used for a rebate of up to 50% of the cost of renovating a storefront- There is a ceiling of 510,000 a storefront, or 540,000 if it is a large building. Ms. Lufkin said that the last time this project was funded was in 1999. Current funds available are being spent down. The Economic Development Committee allocated $50,000 towards this program in 2001 /02, and those funds are being used as well. Housing & Commwdq Development Act Committee Minutes -- October 30, 2001 Page 17 Aid. Rainey asked wfiat projects have been allocated money, but not spent. Ms. Lufkin said that one was the Main Street Station, second one was ????? , third the recording studio at the comer of Davis and Oak. C1 - Commawity Development Department/CDBGAdminhtrafian Ms. Lufkin said that this activity funds administration of the CDBG program and neighborhood planning: 3 & 1 it positions in the Planning Division, the grants _ administrator position, neighborhood planner, CDBG analyst position and a part-time planner positiop. 50'/o funding is also requested for the Planning Division's executive secretary and general planner's positions. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no fin*" business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 11:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Mary Baaske/Sally Lufkin Planning Division HOUSING AND COMMUNITN' DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Thursday, November 15, 2001 6:30 P.M. - Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske, Community Development Department Mary Rodino, Raye Janousk; PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair OTHERS PRESENT: Alexander Brown. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services; Viru Joshi, CEDA/ENAW; Ann White, Center for Enriched Living; Jennifer Roth, YWCA Evanston/Northshore; Brian Rosinski, Ridgeville Paris District; Amy Harris, Youth Job Center, Wendy Smith, Kathy Shearer, Infant Welfare Society; Susan Doctor, Childcare Network; Amanda .tones, Evanston Police Department; Jacqueline Grossman, Interfaith Housing; Martha Arntson, Childcare Net--vork; Teri Talan, Evanston Day Nursery; Annette Logan, E-Town; Helen Roberts -Evans, Evanston Childcare Center; Lionel Chery, Haitian American Community Center, Esther Williams -Revs, Soup Kitchen For Those Who Hurt; Augustus Howard, Ebenezer AME Church; Adrianne Goodman, Youth Job Center; Betty Sue Ester, Yvonne Vanden Avenne, Sue Ann Glasier, Dino Robinson, Betty Uzzell, Carmen Frost, Ferdinand From, Bob Eder, Carol Mullis, Lupita Acosta -Nava, Micharl Henley, Jan Weeks City of Evanston: Lloyd Shepard; Wynne Harrison, Neil Ney, Allissa Dean, Nancy Flowers, Alan Berkowsky, James Wolinski, Paula Haynes, Mamie Smith - Fleetwood Jourdain L CALL TO ORDER Aid.' Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m., a quorum being preseaL Aid. Rainey explained that the meeting tonight was to decide funding for all the proposals submitted. R Housing and Community Development Act Committee Iviinutes - November 1, 2001 Page Two She said that there would not be audience participation tonight unless the Committee had a specific question regarding a proposal. Sally Lufkin said that the HUD funding bill is awaiting the President's signature and once that happens, she believed the funding figures will be made known to grantees. She estimated that funds allocated to Evanston for 2003 would amount to S2,439,000, program of S125,000, and reallocation of unspent funds S245,070. Total funds available for 2002 CDBG projects is estimated to be $2,809,070. Ms. Lufkin reminded the Committee that there is a 20% limit on the amount of funding that can be allocated towards Administrative/Planning projects, for a cap of $512,800. Requests in that category total S519,300 necessitating that $6,500 be cut in this category. i I , In the Public Services category, Ms. Lufkin said 15% of the grant funds available can be allocated toward Public Services activities. The City has received applications totaling, , ... , , $722,836. With the Public Services cap at $384,600, a cut of $338,236 in this category will be necessary. Ms. Lufkin requested Committee action on the reallocation of $245,070 in unspent CDBG funds to the 2002103 program year. David Schoenfeld moved approval, and Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. 1. 2002/03 CDBG PROGRAM A1d. Rainey invited Committee recommendations for funding. Aid. Rainey proposed that the Committee consider the funding budget she had distributed to members earlier that evening. Ald. Kent made a motion to approve the funding budget distributed by AId. Rainey, David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Rainey said that she originally attempted to allocate in excess of $300,000 to the South Branch Library relocation, which made it very difficult to award some other very deserving requests. After receiving further information, she decided that this is not a good time to set aside this large an amount of money for the South Branch Library. She said that the City Council has made no progress towards making a determination on that relocation. She said she supports the relocation 100% and will work very hard towards that end. She added that the Fire Department's request has been moved to the public facilities category. A26 - E-Town Community VentureslL- Town Community Venturer , David Schoenfeld stated that he would like to fund E-Town Ventures at 5101,0010 under economic development category. Aid Bemstein said that discounting E-Town's, request from $180,000 to $10,000 would not be very effective and asked Mr. Schoenfeld if this was .a symbolic gesture. Mr. Schoenfeld said that there are a lot of funding requests which are all or` Housing and Community Development Act Committee ;Minutes - November 1. 2001 Page Three nothing. If the Committee does not fund those requests, they will not be able to operate. He did not see this as a problem with E-Town. Aid. Bernstein said that there are requests from E-Town and Westside Citizens District Council, both of which are targeting the same neighborhood. He asked if these were cooperative energies and asked Aid. Kent for more information. Aid. Kent replied that there is an effort to channel the energies towards the redevelopment of Church Street as well as all economic development in the Fifth Ward. He said that while these two entities are communicating, they are each their own unique entities. Aid. Rainey commented that the reason she recommended funding for the Heritage House was that until the building at 1817 Church is up to code, no programs can be held there. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he supported giving E-Town a symbolic contribution to let E- Town know that.. while the Committee supports their initiative, it does not have the funds available to give them total funding. Aid. Rainey called for a vote for funding E-Town at $10,000. The motion was approved 7-1. Sally Lufkin, pointed out that she had noticed an addition error on the spreadsheet and pointed out to the Committee that the total amount of estimated funds for the 2002/03 CDBG program is S2,809,020. CI CDBG Administration C2 Housing Advocacy C3 Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program (M/W/EBE) Judith Treadway moved approval of C1 CDBG administration at $336,700, C2 - Housing Advocacy at $90,000, and C3 Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program (MIWIEBE) $85,000. Kenneth Rodgers seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Al BEHIV/Community Unity Judith Treadway made a motion to approve Al BEHIV at $9,900, A2 Center for Enriched Living SO, A3 Connections for the Homeless at $19,000. Ald. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A4 Evanston Community DefenderlEvanston Community Defender A5 Haitian American Community Center/EEACHospitality Center A6 Evanston/Northshore YWCA/Domestic Violence Aid. Berstein moved to fund A4 Evanston Community Defender at $85,000, EEAC Hospitality Center at S9,900 and A6 Evanston/Northshorc YWCA Domestic Violence at S37,000. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said she had some concerns about the CDBG program continuing to fund the Community Defender year after year, and said that she . would like them to think about other kinds of funding for the coming years. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Pam Four Judith Treadway said she was concerned about the funding request for the EEAC Hospitality Center, because of duplication of services. Aid. Rainey clarified that the other facilities in Evanston provided overnight accommodations and emergency shelter, the Hospitality Center is for a place for persons staying at the adult shelter to go during the day. Aid. Bernstein said that he agreed with Aid. Rainey's concern about the Community Defender, that the Community Defender has done such a great job and now is not the time to stop funding. Aid. Jean -Baptiste, said that the YWCA has a budget of over 51,075,578 and asked if the Domestic Violence Program was a stand-alone program within the institution or whether the YWCA provides that kind of overall service anyway and this money is to supplement their program. YWCA representative, Jennifer Roth, said that the funding that comes from the CDBG program funds the Shelter's woman's advocate and walk in counseling position. Aid. Jean Baptiste said he wanted to amend Aid. Berstein's proposal to give the YWCA $17,000. Aid. Bernstein did not accept that amendment to his proposal. Aid. Bernstein's motion passed 6 - 2. Ms. Treadway asked Aid. Rainey if the Committee could vote for A4, AS, and A6 one at a time. Aid. Rainey said that was possible. A4 Community Defender/Evanston Community Defender The Committee voted unanimously for funding the A4 Evanston Community Defender at $85,000. The Committee voted unanimously for funding the AS EEAC Hospitality Center at $9,900. The Committee voted 6 - 2 for funding A6 Evanston/Northshore YWCA Domestic Violence at 537,000. A8-Girl Scouts/llfinois Crossroads Council A7 posher Memorial A.M.E. Zion ChurchlFresh Start Program Aid. Kent made a motion to not fund A&Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads Council and to fund A7 the Fresh Start program for 511,370. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Kent said he was a big advocate of the services the Girl Scouts provide, but he expected more for the Evanston girls to experience than he felt was being offered. He felt that that the Girl Scouts were providing the same programs over and over. Aid. Kent said that there was a gap in engineering and mathematics skills where girls are concerned. He said that he also felt that there was not enough being done for people coming out of jail. Many of the people being served by the Fresh Start program have an Evanston connection, whether they have a family member here or lived in Evanston at one time. Aid. Rainey said that the amount of money given to girls in Evanston is minimal, and she felt that the services the Girl Scouts provided is really needed. On the other hand, Fisher Memorial did not give the Committee any information on their program this year. It was her hope that if the Committee supported Fresh Start this year, Aid. Kent would support them giving Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1.2001 Pave Five the Committee the same kind of information that the Committee asks of every other agency that is funded. Aid. Kent agreed and said that he felt the same way about the Girl Scouts as Aid. Rainey felt about Fresh Start. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he wanted to support the Fresh Start program at last year's level of S9,900. Aid. Rainey asked that the Girl Scouts be funded at S8,900. Aid. Kent agreed with the changes to his amendment. Motion passed unanimously. A9 Haitian American Community Ccnterl(HACA) Education A Training Program Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to fund A9 Haitian American Community Center (HACA) at $42,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that this is an organization that has been in operation for the last ten years. It targets immigrant youth that before had not been targeted for any kind of attention or activity in Evanston. The HACC aims to provide training on the technological level related to employment. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said she was concerned about the lack of a track record with this program. From the proposal, she did not get a sense that there was any direction of the proposed program. She said that she would be in favor of giving them a symbolic gesture as the Committee had done previously with E-town. Judith Treadway said that she was concerned with the stipend mentioned in the proposal. She said that HACA was already operating in Rogers Park. Ms. Treadway proposed to fund them at $20,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste refused that amendment to his motion. Aid. Rainey asked how HACA could use the $42,000 requested by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Mr. Chery, Executive Director, said that originally the program targeted 150 youth with one program director and two instructors. With the $42,000 Mr. Chery said that HACA could still serve 150 youth, but would reduce the number of paid part-time instructors and add volunteers. The motion to fund the A9 Haitian American Community Center at 542,000 passed 6 - 2. All} Interfaith Housing Center/Homesharing Program Aid. Bernstein moved to fund A 10 Interfaith Housing Center Homesharing Program at $22,000. Motion seconded by Judith Treadway. Motion passed unanimously. All Legal Assistance Foundation Aid. Bernstein moved to fund A I 1 Legal Assistance Foundation for $10,000. Motion seconded by Judith Treadway. Motion passed unanimously. Al2 Metropolitan Family Services/ElderAbuse Prevention Services Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to fund A) 2 Metropolitan Family Services/Elder Abuse Prevention Services at $6,480. Judith Treadway seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A13 North Shore Senior Center/Evanston-Skokie Valley Senior Services Aid. Rainey moved to fund At North Shore Senior Center/Evanston-Skokie Valley Senior Services at $34,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said Housing and Community Development Act Committee 44inutes - November 1. 2001 Paee Six that this agency has a budget of over 53.000,000 and asked if this agency would be hurt by not receiving funding from the City. Aid. Rainey replied that, given the scope of their efforts and services, this is a symbolic gesture on the part of Evanston. She said that this was an organization that serves seniors that are the very most neediest of the needy. The agency does not require that seniors go anywhere to receive their services; instead case managers go to the senior's home. The City's Ombudsman says that this agency is 100% responsive and supportive. Judith Treadway concurred in Aid. Rainey's support for this agency. Motion passed unanimously. A114 Westside Citizens District Council/Evanston Westside Work Based Skill Program. Aid. Rainey moved to not fund A14 Westside Citizens District Council/Evanston Westside Work Based Skill Program. Ald. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said that she thought that before the Westside Citizens District Council takes on any more activities,, the (1817 Church Street) building needs to be in tip-top shape. She said that the Committee could not fund all of the Westside Citizens District Council's requests and her choice was to fund the physical plant, get it accessible, renovated and a place worthy of people in the community coming to visit. Motion passed unanimously. A15 Youth Job Center/Job Readiness, Job Placement and Follow-up. Aid. Kent moved approval of A15 Youth Job Center/Job Readiness, Job Placement and Follow-up funding at $84,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A27 E-Town Community VentureslE-town Media Center Judith Treadway moved to not approve funding to A27 E-Town Community Ventures/& town Media Center. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed unanimously. C4 City - Community Development/Building Division/Graffiti Technician -Graffiti Removal Program Aid. Bernstein moved approval of C4 City - Community Development/Building Division/Graffiti Technician -Graffiti Removal Program at $29,750. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C6 City _ Police Department/Senior Crime Prevention Program Aid. Bernstein moved approval of C6 City - Police Department/Senior Crime Prevention Program at $21,200. Judith Treadway seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Staff announced that there still remained $49,430 to be cut from the Public Services Category, David Schoenfeld moved approval of funding the Community Defender at $75,000; the Fresh Start program at $6,500; the Girl Scouts at $6,500; the Haitian American Community Center at $25,000; Homesharing at S20,000; Evanston/Skokie Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Page Seven Valley Services at $30,000; Youth Job Center S85,000, Graffiti Technician at $25,000; and for the Senior Crime Prevention at $20.000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Judith Treadway thought it would be more equitable to take a percentage for reductions. Mr. Schoenfeld said that it was about making choices, not spreading it pro rata across the board. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to share the percentage that was over the cap (1 I%) and deduct it from each organization under Public Services. C9 Housing Code Compliance Revolving Loan Fund - Program Income Judith Treadway moved to fund C9 Housing Code Compliance at $233,500, the Revolving Loan Fund - Program Income at S 125,000, C 10 Hand)7nan Program at $25,000, and C1 I adoption services at $25,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. After discussion, the motion passed unanimously. C7 City - Community DevelopmentlCommunhy DevelopmenlAdminislration Aid. Bernstein moved to approve C7 City - Community Development/Community Development Administration at $93,500, C8 City - Community Development/Housing Rehab Administration at S231,500. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. A16 CEDA/Neighbors at Work/Minor Repairs -Painting Assistance Judith Treadway moved approval of Alb CEDA/Neighbors at Work/Minor Repairs - Painting Assistance at $180,000. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C12 City - Parks/Forestry & Recreatiow7feetwood/ dourdain Locker Rooms and Lift Aid. Kent moved approval of C 12 City - ParkslForestry & Recreation/Fleetwood/ Jourdain Locker Rooms and Lift at $366,000. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion passed unanimously. C13 City -Public Works/Alley Paving Aid. Rainey moved approval of C13 City -Public Works/Alley Paving at $100,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said that the CDBG Target Area alley paving program had not been funded for a couple of years. She said that some of the alleys in the target area are impassible and encouraged Committee members to work vigorously to encourage Target Area residents to submit petitions and spend this money in the next year. David Schoenfeld said that there is a program to help people with alley paving special assessments that are not being spent because people are not coming forward to request assistance. He asked if the Committee really wanted to spend money on a need that is already addressed by another program that is not being utilized. Aid. Rainey explained that there is currently no money in that fund for alley paving. She said that there is a small amount of money Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Pace Eight in a fund to aid people with special assessments, but it cannot be used for the public portion of the cost of paving the alleys. Ivir. Schoenfeld asked if the inability to pay for the special assessments prevented any alleys from being paved. Aid. Rainey said that it did. Aid. Kent said that this was a needed program, although a dysfunctional one. He would have preferred to locate the alleys to be paved and just pave them. Aid. Kent said that in his neighborhood, there are a lot of absentee landlords, and the tenants fear that if the alleys are payed, then the landlords, given a special assessment. would increase the rent. Judith Treadway asked if the Aldermen in the Target Area could proactively identify a process for communicating with residents on those alleys that need paving. Aid. Rainey suggested that subject be put on the Committee's agenda - for discussion in an upcoming meeting. Motion passed unanimously. C14 - City/Public Works/Alley Resurfacing Aid. Rainey moved acceptance of C 14 - City/Public Works/Alley Resurfacing at $0. Ald. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C15 - City/Public Works/2002 Accessible Curb Ramp (ADA) Program Aid. Bernstein moved approval of C 15 - City/Public Works/2002 Accessible Curb Ramp (ADA) Program at $88,000. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Judith Treadway asked how many curb ramps could be done with $88,000. David Jennings, Public Works Director, stated that priority one improvements are $.5 million and the total cost of the program is $1.7 million. The first year was considered a pilot program at $50,000 and he said they wanted to double the number of curb ramps this year. Motion passed unanimously. C16 - City/Public Works/Block Curb and Sidewalk Program. Ald. Bernstein moved approval ofC16 - City/Public Works/Block Curb and Sidewalk Program at $100,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. CI - City/Public Works/Street Light Upgrade Program Aid. Bernstein moved approval of C 17 - City/Public Works/Street Light Upgrade Program at $100,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Kent asked how this program would be started. David Jennings replied that his recommendation was to replace the lights in the order in which they were installed, because the oldest lights throughout the City are the dimmest. Judith Treadway asked if the previously mentioned 5,500 lights were the total amount of lights in the City. David Jennings replied that the 5,500 lights mentioned were the Talmadge style lights. The funds granted by the CD Committee would go to replace lights in the CDBG Target Area. Aid. Rainey asked for a presentation on what the process will be for replacing these lights at an A&PW meeting. Mr. Jennings said that when he finalizes everything, he will give a presentation to A&PW. Motion passed unanimously. CI - City/Community Development/Planning/Adopt a Fancy Can Aid. Rainey made a motion to funA C18 - City/Community Development/Planning/Adopt a Fancy Can for $10,340. Motion seconded by Aid. Kent. Judith Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1.2001 Paee Seven Valley Services at $30,000; Youth Job Center $85,000; Graffiti Technician at $25,000; and for the Senior Crime Prevention at S20,000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Judith Treadway thought it would be more equitable to take a percentage for reductions. Mr. Schoenfeld said that it was about making choices, not spreading it pro rata across the board. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to share the percentage that was over the cap (I 1%) and deduct it from each organization under Public Services. C9 Housing Code Compliance Revolving Loan Fund - Program Income Judith Treadway moved to fund C9 Housing Code Compliance at S233,500, the Revolving Loan Fund - Program Income at S125,000, C10 Handyman Program at $25,000, and CI adoption services at $25.000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. After discussion, the motion passed unanimously. C7 City - Community Development/Community Development Administration Aid. Bernstein moved to approve C7 City - Community Development/Community Development Administration at S93,500, C8 City - Community Development/Housing Rehab Administration at S231,500. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. A16 CEDA/Neighbors at Worklttinor Repairs -Painting Assistance Judith Treadway moved approval of A16 CEDA/Neighbors at Work/Minor Repairs - Painting Assistance at $180,000. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C12 City - Parks/Forestry & Recreation/Fleetwood/ Jourdain Locker Rooms and Lift Aid. Kent moved approval of C12 City - Parks/Forestry & Recreation/Fleetwood/ Jourdain Locker Rooms and Lift at S366,000. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion passed unanimously. C13 City -Public Works/A&7 Paving Aid. Rainey moved approval of C13 City -Public Works/Alley Paving at $100,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said that the CDBG Target Area alley paving program had not been funded for a couple of years. She said that some of the alleys in the target area are impassible and encouraged Committee members to work vigorously to encourage Target Area residents to submit petitions and spend this money in the next year. David Schoenfeld said that there is a program to help people with alley paving special assessments that are not being spent because people are not coming forward to request assistance. He asked if the Committee really wanted to spend money on a need that is already addressed by another program that is not being utilized. Aid. Rainey explained that there is currently no money in that fund for alley paving. She said that there is a small amount of money Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Page Nine Treadway said she was concerned that if the Fancy Cans are provided, the citizens %till not empty them. Aid. Rainey said that the citizens wha are given a fancy can would sign an agreement to empty them. If they do not live up to the agreement. the can «ill be taken away and given to someone else. Motion passed unanimously. A17 - Ridgeville Park Distriet/Elks Park Playground David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund A17 - Ridgeville Park District/Elks Park Playground at S100,000. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. At this time, Mary Rodino read the funding amounts approved for the Public Services. Aid. Bernstein stated that it seems as if the Community Defender is being penalized for requesting a modest increase over last year. He said that he did not want to fund them at a level less than they received last year. He said that they operate on a very tight budget and giving them less money may mean the loss of a part time caseworker. Aid. Bernstein said that he would like to, as close as possible, fund the YWCA. David Schoenfeld said he thought that the Committee should go with priorities and not just across the board. A18-Child Care CcnterlBuilding Renovation Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund AI8-Child Care Center/Building Renovation at $37,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimoush. A19 -Ebenezer AM Church/Rehab of Parking Lot for AccessibYhy Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund A19 -Ebenezer AME Church/Rehab of Parking Lot for Accessibility at $0. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Aid. Kent said that, while he thought it was an excellent project in the CDBG Target Area, the limited amount of CDBG funds the Committee has to award made it difficult for him to support this project, and because Ebenezer has so many irons in the fire, he will vote to not fund them this year. He invited Ebenezer to reapply next year. Aid. lean -Baptiste commented that he would like to see the proposal funded at 25% of what was requested. Aid. Rainey explained that until HUD changes it rules/restrictions, it will look at this project as a church parking lot and thus ineligible for CDBG funding, because of separation of church/state issues. Sally Lufkin said that if Ebenezer's request is for part of the cost of resurfacing the parking lot, she felt it could be eligible for funding, but not if it is for the entire cost of renovating this parking lot. A20-Evanston Day Nursery/Child Care Center Building Improvement Aid. Bernstein made a motion to fund A20-Evanston Day Nursery/Child Care Center Building Improvement for $38,765. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. Judith Treadway requested that it be funded at $20,000. Aid. Bernstein accepted that amendment to his motion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded that motion. Motion passed unanimously. A21 Family FocuslWeissbourd-Holmes Family Focus Center r . . Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Page Ten A21 Family Focus/Weissbourd-Holmes Family Focus Center Aid. Rainey said that Family Focus has been funded many times in the past and she felt that this year the parent organization would have to help them. Aid. Rainey :Wade a motion that that A21 Family FocuslWeissbourd-Holmes Family Focus Center not be funded by the Committee this year. Judith Treadway suggested that A21 Family Focus be funded at $16,OOO so that they could repair the most heavily used stairs. Aid. Rainey accepted the amendment to her motion. Motion passed unanimously. A22 Infant Welfare Society of Evanston/Building Rehab at Baby Toddler Nursery Ald. Rainey made a motion to approve A22 Infant Welfare Society of Evanston/Building Rehab at Baby Toddler Nursery for 56O,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Judith Treadway proposed to fund A22 Infant Welfare Society of Evanston at $35,000. Aid. Rainey declined the amendment. Motion passed unanimously. A23 - School District 65 - Dewey School Playground For clarification purposes, Aid. Bernstein stated that the $80,000 granted to School District 65 last year will be spent on King Lab, and that the $80,000 granted this year will be spent on the Dewey School playground. He confirmed with the school district representatives that District 65 will be spending an additional $150,000 per school on the playgrounds. Aid. Rainey said that Dr. Murphy had assured her that the current grant would be encumbered for King Lab by June 2002. Judith Treadway asked Dan Stevenson from School District 65 to explain District 65's policy regarding school playgrounds. Mr. Stevenson replied that this last summer, three playgrounds were renovated which averaged between $200,000 and $240,000 a playground, plus architectural fees. The commitment was made when the referendum w-as passed to spend at least $150,000 on each school playground improvement program. Prior to the referendum, there was also a total budget of $150,000 for school playgrounds. He added that School District 65's policy now is to bring all school playgrounds up to acceptable standard ADA requirements. Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund the School District 65 - Dewey School Playground for $80,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A24 - Evanston 'Westside Citizens District Council - Evanston Black American Heritage House. Aid. Kent made a motion to approve A24 - Evanston Westside Citizens District Council - Evanston Black American Heritage House for $112,500. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Judith Treadway asked to amend Ald. Kent's motion to fund A24 - Evanston Westside Citizens District Council - Evanston Black American Heritage House for 525O,000. The amendment was not accepted. Motion passed 7 - 1. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Page Eleven C19 City - Evanston Public LibrarylRelocation ojSouth Branch Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund C 19 City - Evanston Public Library/Relocation of South Branch for S0. Motion seconded by Judith Treadway. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he believed Aid. Rainey's rationale for a recommendation of SO was based on her conversation with Neal Ney, Evanston Public Library Director. that any funds allocated to this project would not be spent in this fiscal year. Aid. Rainey corrected Aid. Jean -Baptiste by saying that what she said was the Council has not authorized any other money for this project to go forward. Mr. Ney said that while there is no physical impediment in relocation of the South Branch, the problem is that there no clear direction from policy makers in this proposal. The Library Board is very firmly committed to the relocation; however the City Council has not given them any direction. He said that he was not sure that a token allocation would help, since it would have to be spent in the Fiscal Year 2002103. Aid. Jean -Baptiste proposed funding the library at $100,000 as a CDBG contribution, and the Council funding the remainder of $300,000 the library is requesting. Aid. Kent stated that while he was in support of the library being relocated to Dcmpster/Dodge, since it would not be used strictly by low/middle income or minority population, he did not feel that the library was eligible for CDBG funds. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Ney how he would spend $100,000 if the Committee allocated that to the new branch library. Mr. Ney said that he didn't think it would be possible to spend the funds during the 2002/03 program year. Judith Treadway indicated her support for funding the new branch library for $100,000. Horace Payne asked why the Committee is trying to fund the library for $100,000 when Mr. Ney said that the library would not be able to use that money in the year 2002/03. Aid. Bernstein stated that his concern was that Council had not even reached the initial thresholds regarding this issue. The last time the Council heard from the library, they were contemplating to reduce the budget the Council Budget Committee asked there to prepare. Closing all branch libraries was under consideration. He said he was in favor of a new library, but to take funds from other projects which are ready to start would not be reasonable. Ald. Bernstein said he could not support Aid. Jean-Baptiste's proposal at this time. David Schoenfeld said that this is an appropriate activity for the Committee to fund, but as of this moment, it sounds like it would be dead money. Aid. Jean-Baptiste's motion to fund the library for $100,000 [ailed by a vote of 6 -2. M Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1.2001 Paee Twelve CS - City - Fire Department/Fire SafetylPublir Education Safety- House Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund the Fire Department/Fire Safety/Public Education Safety House at S22.000. She said that she proposed this amount because she thought there is another funding source to help them get the needed funds to purchase the vehicle. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimoush% C20 - City - Community Development/PianninglNeighborhoodStorefront Improvement Judith Treadway moved approval of funding C20 - Neighborhood Storefront Improvement for $40,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Kent asked how many new applications there were for new funding. Sally Lufkin replied that most of the current applicants had been approved for funding. Motion passed unanimously. A25 - Child Care Network/Childcare Business Network Judith Treadway moved to approve $0 funding for the Childcare Network. Kenneth Rodgers seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey mentioned that the Childcare Network had agreed to do a pilot program. Aid. Bernstein made a motion to fund the Childcare Network for $30,000. There was no second. The motion to approve 50 funding passed 7-1. Aid. Rainey stated that the Committee had gone through her proposal of funding recommendations list once and now needs to be reviewed. She asked Sally Lufkin what amount Public Services was over. Ms. Lufkin replied that Public Services was over $49,430 and total funding recommendations were $310,500 over the estimated funds available. A9 Haitian American Community Center - HACA Education A Training Program Aid. Rainey motioned reducing the Haitian Education and Training Program to $25,000. She asked them to come back next year after they had been operating the program for a year. Motion seconded by Aid. Kent. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he understood that some of the Committee did not want to fund the Haitian American Community Center because it did not have a track record. He felt that withdrawing money (S12,000) from what was allocated to HACA would weaken its ability to survive. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said the I I % cut across the board he had recommended previously was a better way to decrease the funding for this proposal. Aid. Rainey replied that awarding an organization that the Committee has not known before has, in her estimation, a rather weak proposal is not showing "no support", it is showing a good deal of support. HACA has operated in Chicago as a volunteer organization and she has not seen any information in the literature received from them, that HACA had received any community development money from the City of Chicago or any other public body. She felt that the funds awarded by the Committee could be very instrumental in HACA's applying for money in the City of Chicago. She said that this funding recommendation showed a good deal of support from the Committee. Aid. Rainey said she did not accept that amendment to her original proposal. Motion failed 4 - 4. Housing and Community Development Act Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1.2001 Pane Thirteen Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to fund HACA at S35,000. Judith Treadway seconded the motion. ;Motion railed 4 Ayes - 4 Nays. Al BEHIV/Community Unity Aid. Rainey moved that BEHIV/Community Unity be funded at $0. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Aid. Bernstein said that while he would like to fund BEHIV, they were not funded several years ago by the CDBG program and their program continued. He added that BEHIV has a large budget and they provide the community with a great service. If the Committee gets more money than anticipated from HUD, we recommended that BEHIV be given some funds. Aid. Rainey said she agreed with Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed 7 -1. With the elimination of the BEHIV proposal, Aid. Jean -Baptiste proposed that the rest of the money needed be taken off the remaining proposals by a percentage. There was no second for the motion. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to reduce the Girl Scouts grant to $5,000. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Bernstein made a motion to fund the following agencies at the following levels: Connections for the Homeless/Entry Point $16,000 Evanston Community Defender 80,000 Hospitality Center 9,900 YWCA Domestic Violence Program 35,500 Contemporary Awareness 6,000 Fresh Start 6,000 HACA Education 30,000 Homesharing Program 20,000 Civil Legal Services 9,000 Elder Abuse 6,480 Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services 30,000 Job Readiness 94,000 Graffiti Technician 28,000 Senior Crime Prevention 21,000 He said that his rationale for reducing the previously approved amounts to some of the programs is that some agencies are funded by other programs. He said he was trying to keep close to what agencies have requested for they have very few sources of funding. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. There being $2,700 still available for Public Services funds �, Aid. Rainey amended Aid. Bernstein's motion to allocate the remaining $2,700 to BEHIV Community Unity. Motion passed unanimously. Housing and Community Development Act Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Paue Fourteen Aid. Rainey made a motion to reduce each of the following programs by $20,000: Fleetwood/Jourdain, alley Paving. Curb and Sidewalk. and the Street Light Upgrade Program. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund the FIeetwoodl]ourdain locker room renovation project but not the second item at this point. He proposed funding Fleetwood Jourdain at $266,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Judith Treadway felt that both the locker room repair and lift were needed. She asked that the Committee consider funding the project at the requested amount of $366,000. Mamie Smith was asked to prioritize the two projects. Ms. Smith said that if Fleetwood Jourdain received $266,000 funding for the locker room it would be enough to include the architectural expense for the chair lift. The lift would cost $85,000 and the architectural expense will be S45,000, which would include designs for the lift and locker rooms. Horace Payne suggested that Fleetwood Jourdain be funded at their requested level of $366,000 and that funding for alley paving be cut. Aid. Rainey said that the alleys have been put off year after year and peoples basements and garages are starting to be destroyed. She added that rodent infestation was also more prevalent in unpaved alleys. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that Fleetwood Jourdain be funded at S311,000 to cover renovating the locker rooms and the architectural expenses for the locker rooms and lift. Aid. Bernstein approved the amendment. Aid Rainey reminded Ald. Jean -Baptiste that Ms. Smith said Fleetwood Jourdain could complete the locker room and do the design for both the locker room and the lift with the S281,DDO. Mr. Schoenfeld accepted this amendment to his motion. Motion passed unanimousy-. Aid. Rainey made a motion to eliminate funding for the Neighborhood Storefront Program. Motion seconded by Ald. Kent. Motion passed unanimously. Judith Treadway made a motion to reduce the Building Rehab at Baby Toddler Nursery by $10,000 making their funding amount $50,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to reduce Elks Park Playground by $20,000. There was no second of the motion. Judith Treadway made a motion to reduce Elks Park Playground by S10,ODO and reduce $10,000 from Dewey Playground. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.. Sally Lufkin suggested that the Committee reduce funding to CDBG Administration by $10,000. Housing and Community Development :act Committee Minutes - November 1, 2001 Paee Fifieerl Aid. Rainey asked James Wolinski (Community Development Director) if Housing Rehab Administration could be reduced Mr. Wolinski said that this program was totally funded by CDBG and would require general funds if its CDBG funding were to be reduced. He offered to reduce Housing Code Compliance by S7,500. He also offered to cut $5,000 from Community Development Administration. Aid. Rainey made a motion to reduce CI I Adaptive Devices for Accessibility to $15,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Judith Treadway asked to amend that motion by funding them at $20,000. Aid. Rainey refused the amendment. Motion passed 6 - 2. David Schoenfeld made a motion to eliminate funding for E-Town Community Ventures. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said he would not approve taking away this symbol of support from E-Town. Horace Payne suggested taking $5,000 off and funding them at $5,000. Mr. Schoenfeld accepted that amendment. Motion passed 7 ayes -1 nay (Aid. Jean -Batiste) ; . � , Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to reduce the funding of Infant Welfare Society by $8,570. There was no second. Aid. Kent made a motion to reduce the Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program by $8,570. Motion seconded by Aid. Rainey. David Schoenfeld amended Aid. Kent's motion by proposing to reduce the funding for BEHIV's Community Unity to $0 and reduce funding for the Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program by $5,000. Aid. Kent accepted that amendment. Motion failed 5 - 3. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to fund the Girl Scouts at $5,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed 7 - 1. Aid. Kent made a motion to reduce BEHIV's funding to $0. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Judith Treadway proposed to take the remaining $4,850 which needs to be cut from the two park projects (Elks Park and Dewey School Playgrounds). Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. Motion failed 4 - 4. Aid. Rainey moved to reduce funding to the EEAC Hospitality Center by S2,000. Ald. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Rainey moved to reduce Elder Abuse by $1,000. Ald. Kent seconded the motion. Motion failed. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 1.2001 Pasie Sixteen Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to reduce funding to HACA by S1,000. Aid. Rainey asked to amend that motion by reducing funding for CEDA's Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance program by S1,850. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed unanimously. David Schoenfeld made a motion to recommend approval of the 2002/2003 budget, as amended, to the Evanston City Council. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed unanimously. CITIZEN COMMENT Betty Sue Ester expressed her disappointment with some of the funding choices and asked the Committee to reconsider some of their recommendations. ADJOURNMENT There being no f ether business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 11:52. ' Respectfully submitted, .i � A /M Lary E ke Planning Division HOUSLIG AND COWNIUtiITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, December 11, 2001 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Rainey, Horace Payne, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Kent, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Amanda Jones, Evanston Police Department; Ann Jennett; Nicholas Darrow, E-Town Community Ventures; PRESIDING OFFICIAL. Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. A quorum was not present so minutes of the November 15, 2001 meeting and other Committee business requiring a vote could not be undertaken. EL PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2002/03 CDBG PROGRAM BUDGET AND PROPOSED ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2002M A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing B. Staff Memorandum and Spreadsheet of Committee funding recommendations made 11/15/01 C. Public Hearing Alderman Rainey opened the Public Hearing at 7:45 p.m. She said that she had thought the hearing would have been better attended, but invited the persons present to address the Committee on the proposed 2002/03 CDBG program and 2002/03 One Year Action Plan Amanda Jones. Evanston Police Department Ms. Jones said that she is the senior crime prevention specialist for the Evanston Police Department. She thanked the Committee for its funding support for the Senior Crime Prevention program in 2002. She said that the funding will enable her to devote more paid hours in service to the seniors in Evanston. Ms. Jones added that because of the Committee's funding support, she has been able to go to other constituencies for assistance with other aspects of the senior crime prevention program, such as obtaining a Russian translation for the File of Life. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 11, 2001 Page 2 She hopes to be able to translate the File of Life into other languages as well. Ann Jennett Ms. Jennett, former Executive Director of the Youth Job Center, announced that the person who had been hired as the Executive Director had resigned. She said that she was very pleased that board member Jim Sibley has agreed to serve as interim executive director. Ms. Jennett said that she hopes that the Youth Job Center will be able to help with the summer jobs program next year. These being no additional speakers, Ald. Rainey closed the Public Hearing at 7:55 p.m. Ald. Rainey distributed a spreadsheet showing one way the Committee could' make the $40,000 reduction in CDBG funding, by taking a percentage (.014239) from each funded program. She noted that the same percentage reduction would, of course, affects larger grants more than the smaller grants. She said that the Committee would discuss the proposed 2002/03 CDBG budget at its next meeting. Due to the lack of a quorum the Committee was unable to conduct business requiring a vote. Ald. Rainey scheduled the next meeting for Monday, January 7, 2002 at 6:30 p.m. to review the proposed 2002103 CDBG program budget, reduce the overall budget by $40,000 to reflect actual 2002 CDBG funding, and to take a vote of recommendation to the City Council on the proposed 2002103 CDBG program budget and One Year Action Plan for FY 2002/03. She added that the January 7`s meeting will be in place of the January 22od meeting. 19L COMMUNICATIONS A. Memorandum for Jay Terry/Nancy Flowers re Handyman Program B. HUD News Releases - Secretaries Martinez and Rumsfeld announce mortgage rate cut for recalled guardsmen and reservists Bush and Martinez announce more than one billion dollars to help the homeless — largest assistance in U.S. history - HUD moves to protect families for illegal mortgage fees — tenders to pay $2 million C National Community Development Association (NCDA) Washington Report for November 30, 2001 D. Meals at Home -- Financial Statements for years ended June 30, 2001 and 2000 Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 11, 2001 Page 3 E. Newspaper Articles - Palos Heights considers uniform design rules - Housing bias laws rarely enforced - Towns still bullish on building - When medium prices is not affordable - A new high for Evanston li-. ing - If housing's dying, builders don't know it - Who profits from HUD program? - Black caucus plan aims to turn renters into buyers - Poorer area also poor in bank branches - Zero equity: It's a common scenario in Japan The communications were accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. IV. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT There was no stafflcitizen comment. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m. s Staff: Date: January 2, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Monday, January 7, 2002 6:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld (late) STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: James Wolinski, Community Development Department; Amanda Jones, Evanston Police Department; Bill Stafford, Lloyd Shepard, Finance Department; Wynne Harrison, Health & Human Services; Paula Haynes, Human Relations Commission; Doug Gaynor, Parks/Forest & Recreation; Chief John Wilkerson and Chief Alan Berkowsky, Evanston Fire Department; Bob Seidenberg, Evanston Review; Mimi Peterson; Mike Hurley, BEHIV; Sandi Johnson, North Shore Senior Center, Sue Murphy, EEAC; Beny Ester, Nicholas Darrow, Gabriel Cheifez, E-Town Community Ventures; Will Sundblad, Connections for the Homeless; Merlyn Graham; John Clark; Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender; Christine Benz PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m., a quorum being present. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 11, 2001 MEETING Horace Payne made a motion to approve the minutes of the December 11, 2001 meeting; motion seconded by Aid. Rainey. Motion carried, 5-0. IIL APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED 2002103 CDBG PROGRAM BUDGET AND PROPOSED ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2002/03 A Staff memorandum B. Spreadsheet of Committee funding recommendations made 11/15/01 C. Copy of Aid. Rainey's spreadsheet showing proposed 2002/03 CDBG , program budget deductions Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — January 7, 2t302 Page 2 D. Vote by Committee to recommend approval of the proposed 2002/03 CDBG program budget and One Year Action Plan for FY 2002/03 to the City Council Ald. Rainey explained that after the Committee had made its funding recommendations in November, the City has received information on its 2002 CDBG funding. That funding will be S40,000 less than had been estimated, which means that the proposed 2002103 CDBG program budget will have to be adjusted by S40,000. Ald. Rainey said that the 2002/03 CDBG program budget will be funded by S2,399,000 in 2002 CDBG funds, S245,070 in reallocated funds from completed prior years' projects and $125,000 in estimated program income (monies received by the City in payment for rehab loans). Ald. Rainey added that staff' had found $29,000 in funds available for reallocation from a project in which generators were purchased for Fire Station #1. The generators have been purchased for $29,000 less than was originally budgeted, so those funds can be added to the reallocated CDBG funds. This means that the Committee needs to reduce the proposed budget by S 11,000. Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to reduce the funding for the Haitian American Community Center's HACA Education & Training Program (number A8) by $6,000 and fund the program at $23,000; and to eliminate the $5,000 allocation previously approved for E-Town Community Ventures (number A26). Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that E-Town has received funding for its proposals in the Church/Dodge business district from other City funding bodies. The motion was seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion carried, 6-0. Sally Lufkin reviewed the proposed One Year Action Plan for FY 2002/03, which includes the proposed funding designations for CDBG projects, as well as the City's ' intentions for using its 2002 HOME Investment Partnership funds ($503,000) and Emergency Shelter Grants funds ($83,000). Ms. Lufkin said that the document had not changed from the one submitted for the Committee's review at its December meeting. She pointed out a few changes in figures and typographical errors. Ms. Lufkin said that the narrative portion of the Action Plan follows a proscribed format and addresses talking points set out by HUD. She added that the narrative portion is similar to ones prepared in ' the past few years, as the topics have not been changed by HUD. Aid. Kent made a comment concerning the section addressing removing barriers to'' affordable housing. He said that he would like the committee to discuss what is affordable housing and attempt to come up with a definition which sets parameters on what the City means when it is talking about affordable housing. Ald. Rainey said that affordable housing could be an agenda item for discussion at the Committee's February meeting. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - January 7, 2002 Page 3 Ald. Rainey added that she would like to explore other possible funding opportunities HUD has available, such as renewal communities and neighborhoods. She suggested that the Committee also explore this topic at its February meeting and referred staff to a Brookings Institutions article on irclusionary zoning. Judith Treadway talked about the lack of funding for economic development projects in the CDBG budget and said that she would be interested in learning other ways to address economic development in the future. She thought that economic development could tie into a discussion about affordable housing and renewal communities. Motion carried, 6-0. Judith Treadway made a motion to reallocated $29,000 from the Fire Station #1 generator project to the 2002103 CDBG program, making the total amount of reallocated funds $274,070. The motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 6-0. r Aid. Rainey suggested to the Committee's citizen members that they attend the January 14, 2002 City Council meeting, at which the proposed 2002 CDBG program budget and One Year Action Plan will be discussed and approved. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Housing Options - New Executive Director Announcement B. NCDA Washington report for December 21, 2001 C. Meals at Home - Food for Thought - Fall 2001 Newsletter D. U.S. Census Bureau - National's Household Income Stable in 2000, Poverty Rate Virtually Equals Record Low E. U.S. Census Bureau - Network of Nation's Households Unchanged F. HUD News Release: New year rings in higher FHA Home MortgaW Limits G. HUD News Release: HUD/REALTORS Partnerships H. HUD News Release: Mel Martinez Reacts to 8.2% increase in housing starts I. Newspaper Articles - Grant for low-income buyers Okd - Tenants keep 500 Uptown units affordable by buying the building The communications were accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey Housing & Commun;ty Development Act Committee Minutes —January 7, 2002 Page a V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Community Development Director Jim Wolinski announced that the City's Housing Planner, Robert Schur, had resigned. Betty Sue Ester discussed the lack of economic development projects in the proposed 2002J03 CDBG budget and how creation of jobs was related to affordable housing. She pointed out that the Committee had before it a proposal from the Childcare Network for a training program for home day care businesses. Ms. Ester said that the proposed program would have not long created jobs in Evanston, but could have been utilized by the many families seeking home day care. This became particularly important when the Welfare to Work legislation was approved and many women had to return to work and put their children into day care. Ms. Ester said that the Committee should support initiatives like the one proposed by the Childcare Network Ms. Ester said that she also did not approve of the funding recommendation for the Haitian American Community Center. She thought that the proposed program was duplicative of ones offered by the Illinois Department of Employment Security, which offers free computer training classes, and ESL (English as a Second Language) classes which are already being offered in Evanston. VEL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 7:15 P.M. Staff: Date: February 1, 2002 MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for February 2002 has been canceled The next meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for March 20, 200Lat 7.30 p rn. in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, March 19, 2002 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Rainey, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David SchaerEfeld, MEMBERS ABSENT: rid. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Judith Treadway STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Sue Carlson, Richard Tholin, Inter -religious Sustainability Project; Christina Kappaz PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF JANUARY 7, 2002 AND AUGUST 114, 2001 MINUTES Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to approve the January 7, 2002, and August 14, 2001 minutes; motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 440: HL COMMUNICATIONS A Housing Commission Minutes from December 20, 2001 and January 17, 2002 B. NCDA Wash bigww Reports for February 5, 2002 and February 28, 2002 C. HUD News Releases: - Joseph Galvan named HUD Midwest Regional Director - President Bush and HUD: Unlocking the American dream to more people than ever before - Martinez announces administration plan to triple funding of "sweat equity" housing Program - Martinez announces $15 million to protect prospective homebuycis. and renters - HUD announces Chicago selected as renewal community — eligible. for S17 billion in tax incentives - $31.5 billion HUD budget expands homeownership opportunities, rental assistance and economic development Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —March 19, 2002 Page 2 D. NACCED outline of Housing Subcommittee chair Roukema's Omnibus Housing Bill E. Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs — Financial Statement for 6/30/01 F. Connections for the Homeless — Winter 2002 newsletter G. News from BEHIV — Winter 2002 H_ Copies of One Year Action Plan for FY 2002/03 (citizen members) I. Newspaper Articles: 1. New housing finds a hidden corner of the South Side 2. How lenders see the future 3. Be on lookout for hidden mortgage compensation ' 4. Home sales expected to stay robust 5. Bush seeks funds for low-income buyers 6. Naperville group to share teardown study 7. To fight predatory lending, regulators need complains 8. How can we fight elder abuse better? 9. Community found in cohousing 10. Prefab housing attempts to bounce back 11. Homeowership programs at risk ii 12. Got down -payment help? Be careful who give it 13. The essence of Uptown The communications were accepted into the record by Ald, Rainey. Also distributed at the meeting was information on the Haitian American Community Association (HACA) and copies of Highland Park's Affordable Housing Needs and Implementation Plan. Aid. Rainey requested that a meeting be scheduled with representatives from HACA to discuss their work program and budget. She said that the information which the Committee has received is not clear enough to understand what their plans are for operating the education and training program on a smaller budget. Sally Lufkin discussed a two page e-mail communication between herself and Chandra Western, Executive Director of the National Community Development Association (NCDA). Ms. Lufkin said that one of the things communities will need to do is to be more vocal and make sure that their Congressional representatives are aware of the things they are able to accomplish with the use of CDBG funds. For the FY 2002, while overall CDBG funding was increased to $5.1 billion by Congress, it was actually reduced by S58 million through set asides within the CDBG program. NCDA anticipates that FY 2003 CDBG funding will be an even tougher struggle. Ms. Lufkin suggested that everyone on the committee "talk up" the CDBG program with elected officials, whenever the opportunity came up. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —March 19, 2002 Page 3 Aid. Rainey suggested that a 1-2 page letter to Congresswoman Jan Shakowsky from the committee be drafted. Ms. Lufkin also distributed copies of the Southeast Evanston Citizens Planning Committee (CPC) report on expenditures for 2001. She said $300.00 had been requested by the CPC to reimburse their petty cash fund. IV. COMMITTEE DISCUSSION ON DEFINITION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN EVANSTON, INCLUSIONARY ZONING A Brookings Institution discussion paper on Expanding Affordable Housing through Inclusionary Zoning: Lessons from the Washington Metropolitan Area B, Inclusionary Zoning articles Aid. Rainey asked the audience members to introduce themselves: Sue Carlson, who worked at Interfaith Housing Center and is also a member of the Inter -religious Sustainability Circle, Richard Tholin, member of the Inter -religious Sustainability Circle, and Christina Kappaz, who recently moved to Evanston and is interested in affordable housing and inclusionary zoning issues. Ald. Rainey opened the discussion on affordable housing, by relating the discussion at a recent Planning & Development Committee meeting on the 1930 Ridge development, in which people were not willing to make trade offs in,the development for affordable units. She said that there was a lack of understanding on the part of aldermen and others about• what affordable housing actually is. David Schoenfeld said that he thought Evanston was not the best place for density bonuses and fast track permitting. He said there is concern about density in many neighborhoods. He thought that people in Evanston would like to be involved in discussions and planning for affordable housing. He thought that a lot of the resistance to affordable housing came from lack of citizen involvement in the process. Fast track permitting runs counter to community involvement. Mr. Schoenfeld thought that one of the things which needed to be talked about is what is realistic about what can be accomplished in some areas with density bonuses and fag track permitting. He thought that there might be options in some parts of the city. However, in some areas density bonuses are not really practical as an inducement, i.e., 1930 Ridge. Ald. Rainey asked what kind of priority is affordable housing. She said if it is top on the list, then there will be density bonuses, regardless of location. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —March 19, 2002 Page 4 She thought that the community has not really determined, from a policy standpoint, that affordable housing is a key goal in Evanston. Mr. Schoenfeld said that in a lot of those places, where there are density bonuses and fast Track permitting, may not work. There is a real economic incentive to build in certain areas, sort of like a carrot and stick approach. In some places it may be more practical to us a mandatory requirement for density bonuses. If someone wants to build there, he would have to include certain requirements into the project. Other communities do this as an incentive for development in certain areas. Ken Rodgers, representing the Plan Commission, said that the commission has talked about affordable housing on several occasions. He thought that the CD Committee ought to have a meeting with the Plan Commission to discuss establishing an affordable housing policy. Ald. Rainey thought that the Plan Commission should discuss this matter. She also thought that the Housing Commission, Human Relations Commission and CD Committee reed to begin to communicate on how they feel about affordable housing. She said that_ the Plan Commission deals directly with the Council's Planning & Development Committee, which would be the next policy step in the City adopting an affordable housing policy. Aid. Rainey said that it is from the grass roots groups that you get information about affordable housing. Ken Rodgers discussed density issues. He said that at the last three/four hearings befor:e',. the Plan Commission the subject of affordable housing has been brought up, including, the 1930 Ridge and Dominick's redevelopment projects. Aid. Rainey asked whether there was any interest on the part of the developer of the Dominick's property in providing some affordable housing units. Mr. Rodgers responded that there were some inquiries., He added that the public hearing for the Dominick's property had been postponed by the. developer to the April 17'h Plan Commission meeting. Christina Kappaz added that at the public meeting with the neighbors, the developer did not say he was considering affordable housing units. Mr. Schoenfeld said that the term "affordable housing" has a different meaning to everyone and that the City should define what affordable housing units are and where those units would come into play in a development project. One way to go about this would be to figure out what is achievable. Sue Carlson said that nothing will happen unless there is a City policy on affordable housing. She said that Evanston has already missed a lot of opportunities to implement an affordable housing policy. Mr. Schoenfeld said that calls into question what Evanston can accomplish with the relatively limited number of affordable units that could be built. It will not be a high Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —;larch 19, 2002 Page 5 number because a lot of new units will not be built in Evanston. However, there are a lot of possibilities. The City may want to insure that community service workers, i.e., police, fire, teachers, can afford to live in Evanston. Mr. Schoenfeld said that a mandatory stick type ordinance in an area where a lot of development, which would happen anyway, might target income strategy and in other areas, try to entice people with a different policy. Ms. Kappaz thought that the leadership of Evanston should define affordable housing. The community needs to be educated on how affordable housing can benefit a community. She thought that Evanston needed to be more organized. Ald. Rainey, referring to the discussion on 1930 Ridge, said that the discussion was mind blowing. No one seized the opportunity to make a real statement (about affordable housing) and use it as an example. She thought that the people who were at the hearing were supportive of some affordable housing units in the project. Richard Tholin said that he supported the set aside on the 1930 Ridge project. He said that it felt good that there was the possibility of a precedent which could be built on. He continued that the real estate market in Evanston has been so desirable to developers that the developers of 1930 Ridge were willing to accept conditions on their development in order to build in Evanston. He thought that the developers' willingness to accept some conditions on their project spoke well to some kind of mandated policy. Mr. Thoiin discussed a policy established by the United Methodist Board of Pensions ten years ago that mandated that 2% of their investment portfolio be made in affordable housing ventures. The Board of Pensions has done affordable housing projects across the country totaling over 5220 million. The Board thought that their real estate portfolio had performed just as well or better than most of the major U. S. insurance companies. The Board of Pensions is also interested in helping with a project in Evanston. The combination of strong community based group, City government and local banks could effectively do an affordable housing project in Evanston. Aid. Rainey said that in order for a project to be extremely successful, there probably should be state legislation on affordable housing. Currently, there is state legislation in California that mandates communities to provide for affordable housing. One of the concerns is that if there is not a more regional approach, someone who might want to build in Evanston, might as well build in a neighboring community where set aside laws do not exist. She said that Evanston has always been paranoid about property taxes. However, now people are very interested in building in Evanston despite those taxes. She thought that if the projects were that attractive to overcome high taxes, then perhaps inclusionary zoning would not be a detriment to a project. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —March 19, 2002 Page b A discussion on what Evanston has that is exclusionary, such as parking requirements, ensued. It was suggested that the Committee encourage use of public transportation. David Schoenfeld thought that perhaps a lower parking requirement in new developments could be used as an inducement for building affordable housing. Other incentives such as fast track permitting, density bonuses and setbacks were discussed. Aid. Rainey commented that, according to the Brookings Institution study, fast track permitting might be the best thing to do for a developer. Density also adds to a developer's ability to make a profit. Use of tax credits to build affordable housing was also discussed. Aid. Rainey said that there is profit to be made in building affordable housing using tax credits. She thought that anyone who rejected that idea did not understand how to use tax credits. Sue Carlson discussed land trusts and how this mechanism was used in Highland Park to make housing there affordable for city workers. the City of Highland Park buys property which has grown in value to at least that of the market rate; then the city resells the house' to someone who works for the city and the city continues to own the land. Aid. Rainey said that Evanston does have some ability to help people, through the Evanston Mortgage Corporation's first time homebuyers' program, but Evanston does not have an affordable housing policy. She said that the only way she could see Evanston supporting affordable housing would be as the result of a demand by taxpayers and residents that Evanston have an affordable housing policy. Reacting to such a demand, the aldermen can enact an affordable housing policy. David Schoenfeld discussed the downtown business district, specifically restaurants who hire minimum wage workers, who cannot afford to live in Evanston because of the cost of housing. It is easier for workers in Evanston to also live here. Aid. Rainey commented that there really has not been affordable housing in Evanston for the past 30 years. Eighty percent of Section 8 voucher holders rent in south Evanston, where two bedroom units are renting for 51,000 a month and three bedroom units at S1,I00 — 1,200 a month. Families are only able to afford to live in these units because of the Section 8 vouchers. Ken Rodgers discussed the community planning efforts in west Evanston being conducted by the Plan Commission. Ms. Carlson said that the Inter -religious Sustainability Circle has struggled to advance affordable housing through religious Congregations in an attempt to bring people on board. David Schoenfeld discussed Requirements for all housing development projects in Chicago. Aid. Rainey said that there has not been any huge pressure put on alderman to take the lead on this issue. She said '. It Housing & Community Development Act Committer Minutes — Narch 19, 2002 Page 7 that one of the benefits of inclusionary zoning is that the community can be made more diverse by dissipating pockets of lower income families throughout the city. Affordable housing does not have to be concentrated on just one area, such as southeast Evanston. She requested an inventory of affordable housing in Evanston to use a base for developing an affordable housing policy. Mr. Rodgers discussed his experience as a member of the Plan Commission and how affordable housing could be a part of a development project. He thought that if there were a community demand for affordable housing, something would be done about establishing an affordable housing policy. Right now, when affordable housing is brought up at the Plan Commission, it is related to the specific project before the commission. Ald. Rainey suggested that the Inter -religious Sustainability Circle formulate a proposed ordinance discussing an affordable housing policy and what the group would like to have included in such an ordinance. She explained that the reason she was suggesting that the framework of an ordinance be proposed by a community organization, is that the proposed ordinance would not relate to any specific development project, but is done in a vacuum without any specific project in mind. She suggested keeping the format of the proposal as simple as possible, but to include a suggested threshold number. What is needed is a flexible policy with boundaries. Once a proposal is submitted to the committee, it can discuss it,an&make recommendations and discuss it with other city commissions and committees. The reaction of the community will indicate their commitment to affordable housing. The big issue will be people's concern that there won't be development in Evanston if there is an affordable housing requirement. The city needs to show that it can have both affordable housing and development. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Sally Lufkin said that the City's HUD representative, Maureen Thurman, would be monitoring the CDBG program's 2001 public facilities projects March 25 — 27's. Monitoring activities will include reviewing files, discussing projects with project managers and visiting sites. VEL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m. 9Staff: 4 U Date: April 15, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, April 16, 2002 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Ald. Rainey, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department; Doug Gaynor, Stephanie Levine, Parks/Forestry & Recreation OTHERS PRESENT: Sue Carlson, Richard Tholin, Inter -religious Sustainability Project; Christina Kappaz PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 19, 2002 AND SEPTEMBER 12, 200I MINUTES Judith Treadway made a motion to approve the March 19, 2002, and September 12, 2001 minutes; motion seconded by Davis Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 6-0. III. COMMUNICATIONS A. Notes from meeting with representatives of the Haitian American Community Association B. NCDA Washington Report for March 20, 2002 C. HUD News Releases: - HUD to re-evaluate revitalization demonstration program; seeks to boost accountability - New Home Sales up 5.3% in February; FHA Insured Mortgage Loan up 20%, Multifamily up 500/6 in FY 2002 - Secretary Martinez seeks to end faith -based discrimination in HUD programs D. Fiscal Year 2002 — HUD's Proposed Budget (Executive Summary) Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April 16, 2002 Page 2 E. Statement by Greg Hoover, President of NCDA re HR 1191, Community Development Block F. Grant Renewal Act and FY 2003 Administration budget proposal on the CDBG program G. YWCA -- Evanston/Northshore — Annual Report(7/1/00 — 6/30/01) H. Copy of Mayor's Proclamation for National Community Development Week I. Housing & Community Development Act Committee — updated mailing list J. Ken Rodgers — busy and recognized for his work with youth K Newspaper Articles: 1. Employer assisted housing grows as a Singe benefit 2. Pulte reveals a factory — built experiment 3. Bridgeport on the threshold of a building boom 4. The rewards of affordability S. Housing prices, like politics, are being `mapped' by region 6. Naperville group to share teardown study 7. 8 honored for neighborhood development 8. U.S. home sales numbers send conflicting signals 9. Schulter tells plan for affordable condos 10. Average U.S. home price rose $1,000 a month in'01 11. Atlanta embraces smart growth Accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether Evanston is a wealthy community. Ms. Lufldn responded that the cities under discussion are located either in iNew, England or California. She added that there is considerable opposition about this proposal. Ald. Rainey discussed a meeting she had with the Haitian American Community Association. Her concern was that HACA understand the importance of reporting to the Committee about their program, especially how the program helps low income Evanston residents. She also encouraged the association to add more Evanston residents to their board. IV. REQUEST FROM PARKS/FORESTRY & RECREATION FOR USE OF HARBERT PARK (CDBG) FUNDING FOR GRANT MATCH Judith Treadway made a motion to approve the request to use unspent funds appropriated for Harbert Park for the application for funding for improvements to the bike trail in Harbert Park. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- April 16, 2002 Page 3 Director of Parks/Forestry and Recreation Doug Gaynor discussed the bike trail, which starts at Green Bay Road, then goes down south into the Skokie park district land and continues to Rogers Park. The Committee discussed the trail between Dempster and Main Streets. Mr. Gaynor said the bike trail is also a walking path. The City needs to widen and improve the path because there is conflict on the path on the lakefront (not enough space) and additional bike trails through Evanston are needed. Stephanie Levine said that the entire project will cost approximately 5120,000 for the renovation/expansion of 3.5 miles of trail. There is also construction underway at two parks of the trail, Beck and Butler. Mr. Gaynor said that money is scarce for capiw projects, but Parks/For" & Recreation can use CEP funds ($20,000). With the 340,000 in CDBG funds designated for Harbert Park, the department can apply for a matching grant of $60,000. He added that state grant administrators look favorably at Evanston because its staff does excellent work. Motion carried, 9-0. V. REQUEST TO EXTEND EXPIRATION OF PURCHASE OF SERVICn AGREEMENTS FOR REBA PLACE DAY NURSERY, EVANSTON DAY NURSERY, BLACK AMERICAN HERITAGE AND TECHNOLOGICAL CENTER AND EVANSTON BLACK HISTORIC SCULPTURE GARDEN Horace Payne made a motion to approve the extension of the Purchase of Services Agreements (POSA) for Reba Place Day Nursery, Evanston Day Nursery, the Blade American Heritage and Technological Center and Evanston Black Historic Sculpture Garden. Sally Lufkin discussed the status of the four projects: these four purchases of service agreements have expired. In each case, the organization has partially completed its work program, but would like to finish the project and are requesting an extension to (POSAs). She said that she has prepared four separate resolutions for submission to the City Council for approval of the extensions. Ms. Lufkin said that each resolution contains the resolution itself; a copy of the budget and/or work program, and a copy of the amendment and (extension) agreement that the grantee will sign. The grant for the Black American Heritage and Technological Center (Westside Citizen Council) was for 538,788 to be used for preparing plans and specifications for renovation of the 1817 Church Street building. Funds have been expended for hiring an architect with museum experience. The architect is in the process of turning concept designs into blueprints. Judith Treadway asked how much of the $38,000 has been spot. Ms. Lufkin responded that, so far, approximately $6,000 has been expended for the contract with the architect. The Citizens District Council has approximately $30,000 in unspent funds on this grant money. Aid. Kent was asked why the project was moving so Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April lb, 2002 Page 4 slowly. He responded that he didn't think the project was moving slowly; there is a lot of work to be done and a certain amount amount of funds available. The board is being cautious in its approach to this project; the ideas for the project are coming from the community. Ald. Kent said that the architect has just started the blueprints. Ald. Kent discussed a recent fundraiser held to raise additional funds for the museum. At the fundraiser a preliminary site plan was presented. After community input, the plan goes back to the architect and she determines what is realistic and can be accomplished with the funds on hand. In response to a question about the timetable for the project, Md. Kent said that he didn't want to put the project on a strict timetable. Reba Place Day Nursery was awarded $90,000. Ms. Lufkin discussed Reba's progress in completing its work program: there are three phases to the project. New security doors, purchase of a dishwasher, and carpeting has been completed. Reba is in the process of deciding on a vender for the phone system and two-way radios. No work has yet been done on the play lot. The Black Historic Sculpture Garden was funded at 575,000 (1998/99 grant). The garden will be located to the right of the main entrance of the Fleetwood /Jourdain Center, between the entry sidewalk and driveway to the east. The Fleetwood/Jourdain Art Guild has spent approximately half of the grant to hire sculptor Shaunessy Johnson and for the development of the maquettes of the premier sculpture. The Sculpture Garden project was then put on "hold" while a master plan was to be developed for the entire Fleetwood/Jourdain property, including the Sculpture Garden area. Fleetwood/Jourdain received a total of $200,000 in two CDBG grants for the landscaping project. Ms. Lufkin said that there remains an issue with the ownership of some of the parcels of land which needs to be resolved before any construction or landscaping is to be done. Evanston Day Nursery had a 2001 grant for 544,000. Over half of the grant was spent on renovating the kitchen because of the need for certain commercial equipment that was being required by the Evanston Health Department. The agency decided not to convert a second floor apartment into a classroom; it has been rented out. The remainder of the project will be the conversion of a first floor sleeping room into a classroom. The Committee also awarded Evanston Day Nursery a 2002 grant for S20,000. Both the remaining 2001 and 2002 funds will be used to convert the sleeping room. One of the Committee members asked whether the Purchase of Services Agreements had to be extended to February 28, 2003. Ms. Lufkin responded that any date could be set by the committee. The Committee decided to extend the POSAs by seven months, to September 30, 2002. Judith Treadway made a motion to approve the extensions of the four Purchase of Services Agreements to September 30, 2002. The motion was seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 7-0. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April 16, 2002 Page 5 VL REQUEST TO RESCHEDULE COMMITTEE'S MAY 21ST MEETING The Committee agreed to reschedule its May meeting to May 14"" one week ahead of the regular meeting date, May 21 '. She said that because of dates set for City Council meetings in May, it will be necessary to move the Committee's meeting date and Public Hearing on the 2001/02 CAPER ahead in order for the Committee to conduct the public hearing, approve the CAPER and forward it to the Council by May 2&. VEL STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Ms. Lufkin reviewed the Committee's schedule for the rest of the year. She said that two meetings have been scheduled for sites outside the Civic Center: June I at Over the Rainbow Association's Hill Arboretum Apartments (invitation of Executive Director and board) and the August 2& meeting will be held at the Howard Street Outpost. The Youth Job Center was suggested as a possible site the for September 17`h meeting. Ms. Lufkin said that HUD representative Maureen Thurman visited the City at the end of March to monitor the 2001 Public Facilities projects. Ms. Thurman is satisfied with the progress on these projects and the City will receive her written report in the coming months. Two issues that came up during the monitoring visit included a closer review of the service areas for school playground and park projects. Evanston has been using the entire CDBG Target Area to qualify a project to be eligible for CDBG assistance. However, HUD is taking a closer look at actual service areas for these projects, i.e., the immediate neighborhood served. Ms. Thurman also continues to have a concern about the City's staffing to administer the CDBG program. Ms. Lufkin announced that Desiree Taylor will be the college intern for the CDBG program and the Building Division during the summer. VIIL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m. .. M Staff: Date: July 9, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, May 14, 2002 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Kent STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Jack Aldworth, Christmas in April; Pamela Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services; Jit Fong Chin, Danielle Ridge, Kenneth Lim, Mike Serwitz, Richard Girard PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:42 p.m., a quorum being present. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 16, 2002 MEETING Sally Lufkin said that the minutes were not finished and would be submitted for Committee approval at the June meeting. III. PUBLIC HEARING ON EVANSTON'S CAPER (CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVAUATION REPORT) FOR FY 2001 /02 A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing B. Staff Review of CAPER C. Public Hearing Aid. Rainey acknowledged receipt of the copy of the Notice of Public Hearing from the Evanston Review and the staff memorandum on the CAPER. At 7:45 p.m. she opened the Public Hearing. There was only one speaker, Jack Aldworth, Executive Director of Christmas in April (see STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENTS for his remarks). There were no other speakers at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing concluded at 7:55 p.m. Sally Lufkin reviewed the CAPER for the Committee and discussed the CDBG program Financial Status Report. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- May 14, 2002 Page 2 Aid. Bernstein made a motion to recommend approval of the City's FY 2001/02 CAPER to the City Council. The motion was seconded by Ald. Jean Baptiste. Motion carried unanimously, 7-0. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Memorandum on M/W/EBE Staffing Aid. Rainey acknowledged receipt of the memorandum from Bill Stafford, Finance Director, regarding staffing the City's MiW/EBE program. Horace Payne said that he thought the Mr. Stafford was not answering the committee's question in his memorandum. He did not think that the City's budget is an issue in hiring part-time staff' for the M/W/EBE Coordinator. He said that CDBG fiends have been allocated to the M/W/EBE program (a portion of which could be used to fund a part-time position) and he doesn't understand why it is taking so long to take action on this matter. Mr. Payne added that his other concern was that Mr. Stafford mentions hiring a person that will work with several different sections of the Finance Department, but the primary responsibility will be to work for the M/W/EBE Coordinator. Mr. Payne said he did not think this (sharing one person among several people) would work well. A person's time cannot be taken away from the M/W/EBE program and have the program operate effectively. Ald. lean Baptiste said that he really did not see why the M/WIEBE Coordinator could not initiate interviews to get an assistant on board. He said that he doesn't understand the delays, which are now at least two years. Aid. lean Baptiste thought that perhaps the Committee needed to adopt a more definitive motion on this matter and have the person hired by a date certain and assigned to work with the M/W/EBE Coordinator. He said this is the Committee's position and he thought the Committee's position ought to be made known to the Finance Director. Aid. Jean Baptiste suggested that the Committee respond to Mr. Stafford's memorandum and make a clear statement about what is being asked of him. Judith Treadway thought that there were sufficient CDBG funds allocated toward the M/W/EBE program to hire at least a part-time person (20 hours a week). Aid. Bernstein said that the CDBG funds were allocated to the M/W/EBE program for assistance to Lloyd Shepherd. Mr. Sheperd is stretched beyond his limitations. It is CDBG funds which are being used to fund the position. Aid. Rainey added that in order for the person to receive city benefits (i.e., health, life insurance, pension) the Finance Department could combine two part-time positions into one full-time position, if the department could guarantee that Lloyd Shepard would have the person working with him at least 20 hours a week. She thought that this idea seemed to be suggested in Bill Stafford's memo. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes —May 14, 2002 Page 3 Judith Treadway said that it appears that Mr. Stafford is going to hire a financial assistant under the M/W/EBE program. The Finance Department will probably fund 50'% of the salary with CDBG funds and fund the other 50% from the City's general fund to make one FTE position. The Committee discussed the length of time it is takes to hire someone. Aid. Jean Baptiste thought that the delay appeared to be overt obstruction in filling the M/W/EBE assistant position. He said that he supported having a person committed to working 20 hours a week minimum for Lloyd Shepard. When you have a person reporting to more than one person, then it is easy for that person to be pulled away from the intended work to assist others. Aid. Bernstein said that he thought Mr. Stafford's suggestion was diluted; his memorandum talked about an assistance that will rotate and work for several divisions with the Finance Department. Horace Payne added that under this arrangement, Lloyd Shepard will lose the part-time help he needs. Ald. Rainey suggested that Bill Stafford be invited to a future committee meeting to discuss this matter. Judith Treadway made a motion that the Housing and Community Development Act Committee direct that the Finance Director, Bill Stafford, authorize at least a part-time position to assist the M/W/EBE Coordinator, Lloyd Shepard as soon as possible. The motion was seconded by Aid. Jean Baptiste. Ms. Treadway added that the position should be filled within the next 45-60 days. She said that the process (for filling this position) has been counter productive to the goals of the M/W/EBE program and that, since it is being funded by the CDBG program, the slowness of action to fill this position is impacting the effectiveness of the M/W/EBE program. Horace Payne asked that a history of unused CDBG funds allocated to the M/W/EBE program be included in the memorandum to Bill Stafford. Motion carried unanimously, 7-0. B. Letter from Evanston Dav Nursery re use of its 2002/03 CDBG erant Sally Lufkin summarized the request to the Committee from Evanston Day Nursery (EDN to hold its 2002/03 CDBG grant of $20,000 until the next program year (2003/04). She discussed the status of EDN's project, noting that EDN had to expend a greater portion of its 2001/02 CDBG grant for bringing its kitchen into compliance with Evanston Health Department guidelines. She said that EDN received S44,000 in 2001/02 CDBG funds, of which approximately S27,000 was used for the kitchen improvement project. S16,900 remains in that grant; combined with the S20,000 2002103 CDBG grant award, EDN has $37,000 in uncommitted CDBG funds. Ms. Lufkin said that the budget for the entire project is S125,000. According to the letter from EDN architect EIlen Galland, it appears that the board plans to raise funds privately to supplement the CDBG grants. Ms. Lufkin added that she was concerned that the letter seemed to indicate that Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 14, 2002 Page 4 the scope of the project had changed from what the Committee had approved in awarding the 2001/02 and 2002/03 grants. (The grant applications had requested funding for improvements to the kitchen. conversion of a second floor apartment into either office or classroom space and conversion ofa first floor sleeping room into classroom space.) She thought that EDN should request a change to their work program from the Committee, as the agency has changed its mind about the second floor apartment and has rented it out and that the sleeping room conversion appears to include a building addition Aid. Rainey agreed that EDN should discuss the proposed change in plans with the Committee. in the meantime, these funds are being unused, when they could have been granted to another organization for a CDBG eligible project this year and EDN could have applied for funding for the year in which they were planning to actually do the project, (i.e., 2003/04). To her this request did not look like an emergency and that Committee could choose to reallocate the funds to another project. Judith Treadway said that there were several public facilities projects which were not funded at the requested level, such as the Family Focus stairway replacement project, Flectwood/Jourdain locker rooms, and the Child Care Center's rehab of the rear portion of their building. Aid. Bernstein said that the question is whether to hold the funds for EDN while they go out and try to raise additional funds or to reallocate the funds to another capital project. C. Housing Options: Spring 2002 Newsletter D. Articles Relating to Housing (from American Planning Association teleconference) E. Newspaper Articles The communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. A discussion ensued about the definition of "affordable housing", citing the HUD definition of affordable housing according to low/moderate income limits. Aid. Rainey suggested that perhaps there needs to be some change in what the City allows when talking to builders. She said that the City Council just approved an amendment to the zoning ordinance that requires a two bedroom apartment (new construction) to have two parking spaces allocated for it. This requirement starts to chip away at any opportunity for that unit to be affordable. Aid. Jean Baptiste said that any information on the percentage of affordable housing in Evanston would be helpful. This fact ought to drive the definition of affordable housing in Evanston and then the City could set criteria (for affordable housing projects). He thought that the Committee should be responsible for sharpening the criteria for what is affordable housing. The Committee needs to see out much housing stock there is in Evanston to meet the needs for the population which qualifies for it. Several recently completed affordable housing projects were discussed. Ald. Jean Baptiste said that what he was trying to figure out is whether the Committee is really making a difference in funding affordable housing projects in Evanston. Aid. Rainey added that the Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —May 14, 2002 Page 5 Committee needed to encourage the community to come forth with projects, encourage not -for -profits to come forward with proposals. The scope of the project had changed from what the Committee had approved in awarding the 2001 /02 and 2002J03 grants. (The grant applications had requested funding for improvements to the kitchen, conversion of a second floor apartment into either office or classroom space and conversion of Aid. Jean Baptiste suggested that the Committee first define what is affordable housing; how much affordable housing is available in Evanston and what is the future for this type of housing. Is there something the Committee Could do to affect the outcomes? David Schoenfeld said that the Committee needed to be careful with a single definition of affordable housing in a community as diverse as Evanston. 80% of median income still does not allow all people who want to purchase affordable housing to have the ability to do so. Mr. Schoenfeld thought that the Committee should not get tied to a median, which would work in a homogenous community, but not Evanston. Aid. Bernstein discussed a meeting he attended with a Evanston Housing Commission subcommittee that is talking in terms of some definition of affordable housing re set asides, impact fees, etc. There are organizations that actually have seed funds. The subcommittee is talking about a community based construction firm to subsidize developers. Ken Rodgers added that there has been a lot of discussion about affordable housing at the Plan Commission. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT Jack Aldworth introduced himself to the Committee; he is the Executive Director of the Christmas in April organization. Mr. Aldworth discussed the recent Christmas in April workday, which occurred two weeks ago (the previous) Saturday. He said this year's projects were spectacularly successful; they were able to complete projects on 33 homes in north shore communities, 9 in Evanston. 900 volunteers participated in the workday. Because it rained ail day, the volunteers were not able to do exterior painting, but that has been completed over the past two weeks. Aid. Rainey congratulated Mr. Aldworth on the organization's success. Types of projects complete were new roofs, six wheelchair lifts installed, painting, floor repairs. Mr. Aldworth said that the focus of Christmas in April is to provide safety, warmth and all good things that go with those two things, with safety being first. He said that a lot of floor repairs are needed because of older homes. The volunteers will really do anything, as they have skilled tradesmen in the corps of volunteers. In response to a question about how the homes are selected, Mr. Aldworth said that homeowners complete a four page application form, usually through a community service agency, such as Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —May 14, 2002 Page 6 North Shore Senior Center, City and town halls. After the applications have been received, Christmas in April sends 2-3 inspectors to the home to inspect the work requested and to add other repairs which the inspectors decide are needed. Applicants are income qualified. Of the 54 applications received this year. Christmas in April was able to accept 33. Reasons for rejection are: applicant is over the income limitations, the applicant had work done in recent years on a Christmas in April workday. Mr. Aldworth added that 95% of their applicants are senior citizens, of which about one-third are disabled. There is a house captain assigned to each house, who coordinates making up list of repairs to be done, ordering supplies and coordinating volunteers. The projects are designed to be one day jobs. Mr. Aldwonh concluded his remarks stating that the organization's finances were tight this year and he expected them to remain tight for the next two/three years. Sally Lufldn announced that the City had recently hired a Housing Planner, Donna Spicuzza. She said that Ms.Spicuzza has worked for the past five years for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago and before that in neighborhood reinvestment. Ms. Spicuzza is also an Evanston resident. The Committee said that they were looking forward to meeting Ms. Spicuzza and working With her. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. Staff. Date: June 14, 2002 r is a' .�, � _ r ., • •'..' HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COM 11 i JL Er" MINUTES Tuesday, June 18, 2002 7:30 P.M. hosted by Omer the Rainbow Association 2040 Brown Avenue, Eswwon MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway NORI+IBERS ABSENT: Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Eric Huffman, Theresa Phillips, Leo Kirwin, Don Gustafson, Sue Gustafson, Chris Krystyn, Shawn Reese', Over the Rainbow Association; Ann Gadzikowskk Ellen Galland, Evanston Day Nursery PRESMING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:30p.m., a quorum being present. Committee members were given a tour of Dill Arboretum Apartments by board members Don and Sue Gustafson, Over the Rainbow staff Eric Huffman and Theresa Phillips, and residents Leo Kirwin and Bob Gustafson. Committee members were also shown newly landscaped and planted patio areas done by the Lincolnwood and Highland Garden Clubs. Executive Director Eric Huffman also discussed outreach efforts done by the association and a recent presentation he and Leo Kirwin made to a group in Washington state. Aid. Rainey thanked everyone for their hospitality and for providing meeting Space for the Committee. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MAY 14, 2002 Hi.r, t ja iG Ald. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the May 14, 2002 meeting; David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion carried, 5-0. _} . a� Housing and Community Development Act Committee : r Minutes — June 19, 2002 Page 2 III. EVANSTON DAY NURSERY REQUEST FOR EXTENSION OF 2002/03 GRANT Ann Gadzikowski, Executive Director of Evanston Day Nursery (EDN) and Ellen Galland, project architect, discussed EDN's request to extend the time period for use of its 2002/03 CDBG grant into the 2003/04 program year. Ms. Gadzikowski said that she has been working part-time until January, at which time she became full-time. -Ms. Gadzikowski said that she had previously been a teacher at EDN and had also worked as Executive Director of Reba Place Day Nursery. Ms. Gadzikowski said their proposed project had changed somewhat since the application for funding was submitted. EDN has decided not to renovate the second floor apartment because it would be more expensive to convert the apartment and make the space safe for children than leaving it as is. (EDN has rented the apartment.) She said that the remainder of EDN's 2002/03 funding request remains the same: converting a first floor nap room into larger classroom space. Ms. Gadzikowski spoke about the board's desire to raise additional funding and has started a capital campaign, hoping to raise $125,000. She added that two major donors have pledged 525,000 each and EDN hopes to raise $30,000 from corporations, foundations and through outreach to former families. Ms, Gadzikowski concluded her remarks stating that there had been changes in the leadership of EDN with a new board chair elected in December and herself becoming Executive Director. Ellen Galland explained that converting the second floor apartment into classroom space would add considerable cost to the project to meet plumbing codes. In addition,. the entire building would then need to have sprinklers installed. Ald. Rainey said that, while it might be a good idea to the board to wait and use the CDBG grant after it has raised additional funds, it causes a problem for the smooth functioning of the CDBG program. She discussed the CDBG funding cycle, the applications which could not be funded because there was not enough funding to support every application received by the Committee, and the importance of the City and grantees spending CDBG funds as expeditiously as possible. With the CDBG funding process being conducted annually, Ald. Rainey said that it was not fair to hold on to funds which could have been used for another eligible project. She asked that the minutes reflect that there was a motion to hold the (EDNs') grant funds until they are able to do the project. David Schoenfeld suggested that EDN get their funding lined up and then return to the Committee to present the project in its entirety. Horace Payne asked whether there were other agencies which may be slow in carrying out their CDBG funded projects. Sally Lufkin said that she would check her records and put together a list Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes — June 18, 2002 Page 3 for the next meeting. Committee members also asked for the CDBG regulation which defines timeliness. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that the Committee ought to have a policy or process for agencies who cannot spend funds in a timely manner. M. COMMUNICATIONS A. NCDA Washington Reports for May 23 and June 7, 2002 B. HUD's 2002 income limits C. Interfaith Housing Center — Just Housing, Spring 2002 Newsletter D. Newspaper Articles: - "Green" Downstate homebuilding inching closer to Chicago - Paying the Price (Daily Northwestern) - Mayor Back Homeownership Tax Credit, Housing Trust Fund to Combat Affordable Housing Crisis (U.S. Conference of Mayors) - City seeks to clean up out-of-date zoning code Accepted in the record by Ald. Rainey. IV. QUARTERLY REPORTS FOR MARCH — MAY 2002 The Committee reviewed quarterly reports received. Aid. Rainey asked which quarterly reports had not been received. Ms. Lufkin discussed the procedure for notifying grantees when quarterly reports were due. She said that she had not received quarterly reports from mainly City sponsored projects: Fair Housing program, MJW/EBE program, Public Works (CDBG) projects, and City housing projects. Judith Treadway added that she thinks there still needs to be more substantial numbers in the reports, i.e., who served, where, what services. Ald. Rainey stressed the importance of all grantees submitting their reports on time; she said that she would email the City departments and asked Ms. Lufkin to notify any agencies which had not yet submitted reports. She said that the quarterly reports are important to the Committee; they are an important way to keep the Committee informed about project/programs' progress. Ms. Lufkin said that she would set up a schedule for grantees to periodically attend future meetings and brief the Committee about their projects. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Ms. Lufkin briefed the Committee on news from the National Community Development Association conference, which she had attended in the previous week. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked that the Committee have further discussion about affordable housing at its next meeting. Ald. Rainey urged committee members to become advocates and have organizations come forward with affordable housing and other proposals, which the Committee could support. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — June 18, 2002 Page 4 VEL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Camrnitwe, the meeting adjourned at 10:15 P.nL ifs Staff: Date: July 8, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, July 16.2002 Room 2404 — Evanston Chic Center 7:30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers MEMBERS ABSENT: Horace Payne, Da%id Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Judith Aiello, James Wolinski, Donna Spicuzza, Amanda Jones, Mamie Smith, City of Evanston; Kevin Foss, Juuad Rizdi, Christina Kappaz, Suzanne Carlson, Sandi Johnson, Pam Thomas, North Shore Senior Center, Richard TtjolK Will Sundblad, Connections for the Homeless; Ann JennM Youth Job Center, Betty Sue Ester, Mark A. Miller, Peggie Jones, John Henry Turner, Jr., Family Focus; Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender Office PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. II. STATUS OF STAFFING FOR MINORITY/WOMEN/EVANSTON BUSINESS PROGRAM Bill Stafford, Finance Director for the City of Evanston, updated the Committee on the status of hiring for the (CDBG funded) additional position for the M/W/EBE program. Mr. Stafford said that he wanted to address the Committee's concerns about having a full time position shared among two or more persons in the Finance Department. Mr. Stafford, discussed the history of the City's M/W/EBE program. He said that the Minority Business program was originally under the City Manager's office. In FY 2001 the program was shifted to the Finance Department. At that time, the Finance Department had six major positions turn over, largely resulting from people leaving for better jobs. That situation put the Finance Department in the position of seeking personnel for positions such as the Chief Accountant, City Collector and two senior accountants. All these positions have now been filled Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — Juh• 16, 2002 Page 2 In addition, last year the department ran into a situation of having to do budget cuts and the department was reduced by I.5 clerical positions in the Collector's office. Mr. Stafford said that he had to take a long look at the positions remaining in the department. He said that he was able to retain the second position for the Minority Business program and upgrade it to an administrative assistant. Mr. Stafford said that he knew that the department would have fewer people, so he wanted to make sure that the positions retained would be more productive and better paid. Mr. Stafford said that the administrative assistant position has been posted, advertised and approximately 60 resumes have been received. The selection process has begun, to be followed by testing and interviews. Mr. Stafford said that he hoped to wrap up the process and have someone on board within the next 30-60 days. Mr. Stafford said that he thinks the position will work as a'/� time position because of the department's philosophy an experience. Mr. Stafford said that he wanted to make it clear that the M/W/EBE Coordinator has not been without support. He said that the M/W/EBE Coordinator has always received additional staff' support for vendor fairs; sometimes at least 2 staff persons are assigned to assist Mr. Shepard. Having administrative support for Mr. Shepard will allow him to monitor more projects and conduct one-on-one site visits. Mr. Shepard will also be able to participate in buyer/seller events in the Chicago area. Mr. Stafford said that he believed that there will be more than enough coverage for the M/W/EBE program with a'/? time position. Mr. Stafford concluded his remarks be emphasizing that the entire Purchasing Division is dedicated to the M/W/EBE effort and the numbers have increased. He said that the department takes the M/W/EBE program seriously and he did not want the committee to interpret that, because he has not hired for the administrative assistant position until now, the department has lessened its support for the M/W/EBE program. Mr. Stafford briefly discussed the Klutznick development project and the willingness of the developer to participate in the City's M/W/EBE program. For the $900,000 demolition portion of the project 90% of the workers are M/W/EBE. In addition, the City has been meeting with the Evanston Chamber of Commerce and a special meeting just for Evanston residents and to work with the contractor (O'Neill) to increase residents' participation in the project. IIL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 16 AND JUNE 18, 2002 MEETINGS Ald. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes from the Committee's April 16, 2002 and June 18, 2002 meetings. Ken Rodgers seconded the motion. Motion carried, 5-0. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — Juh- 16, 2002 Page 3 IV. PUBLIC HEARING ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NEEDS FOR THE ?003104 CDBG PROGRAM Aid. Rainey opened the public hearing at 7:48 p.m. She said that the purpose of the hearing was for the Committee to receive input from the community about community development needs in Evanston prior to receiving applications for the 2003/04 CDBG program. She explained that the purpose of CDBG funding is to provide decent, livable housing and expand economic development activities, particularly for low/moderate income residents. Judith Aiello. Assistant Citv Manager Ms. Aiello said that she was presenting a summary of community development needs identified fi=n the City staff perspective. Over the 28 years in which the City has received CDBG funding, it has been able to make significant contributions to the betterment of the community in all eligible categories, i.e., public services, public, facilities, housing, economic development and public improvements. Ms. Aiello said that City staff has come to the committee each year to request CDBG funds to either continue projects or request funds for new projects. Ms. Aiello said that the needs of the community only continue to grow. She said that the applications for CDBG funding this year will focus on all eligible categories. She said that the City will request that the committee look at its applications in a comprehensive manner. Applications will be focused on projects which can make a larger impact. Upon completion of the citizens planning process in the 5t' ward, there will be number of recommendations which the City hopes to bring back to the committee for a comprehensive program to address those needs once the neighborhood plan is in place. Ms. Aiello said that the City anticipates submitting applications for housing, economic development and public works (alleys and street paving, upgrade streetlights, add alley lights). Leveraging CDBG funds could enable the City to garner additional funds for the capital improvement plan. The procedure for evaluation of City parks has been to consider them in the City's 7 year plan. Because there are so many needs for park improvements, the City has only been able to do a portion in each park and by the time the City has worked its way through the 7 year process it is time to start over again. The City may submit a proposal for a comprehensive park improvement project for one or two parks in a year. In addition to upgrading parks. the surrounding area will be examined to determine where upgrades could be made to adjacent streets, alleys, sidewalks and improve accessibility. Ms. Aiello said that the city will probably submit applications for Fleetwood/Jourdain and Mason Park this year. --t- • ---.-_-_--_ Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 16, 2002 Page 4 Regarding economic development and job creation. Ms. Aiello there is a need to be pro active in this area. There is a real need to reach out to small businesses, particularly in the CDBG Target Area, and determine what some of the needs are and how we can address them. It may be possible to use CDBG funds to support the summer youth employment program and look at some small businesses to see if there are ways we can partner with them and have greater leverage of CDBG dollars and hire more youth. Every year the City has to turn away some of the vouch interested in work in the summer youth employment program. Ms. Aiello said that the City would like to continue funding social services and programs for the elderly and disabled. The City would like to continue assistance to displaced persons and provide emergency assistant, health services for low/moderate income seniors. The City would like to increase language and cultural accessibility for Evanston residents with limited English language proficiency. Maintaining the City's housing stock and affordable housing will continue to be important priorities for the City. Crime prevention and technical assistant for seniors will continue to be an important priority for the City and it will ask the committee to continue its commitment made in the past for the senior crime prevention program. James Wolinski. Communitv Development Director Mr. Wolinski said that the Community Development Department will be requesting continued CDBG funding for the various City -sponsored housing programs in order to preserve the City's housing stock and provide assistance to low/moderate income residents to rehab their homes. Currently, the department has eight programs which have been funded (partially or totally) with CDBG funds: Community Development Administration, CDBG Administration, housing rehabilitation (loan) program (S30,000 maximum loaned for a single-family rehab project; some multi -family buildings also eligible for assistance), housing code compliance (which is the backbone of the City's housing programs with over 15,000 rental residential units to be inspected on a 3-4 year cycle; also inspecting more commercial properties), neighborhood planning (working in 5'h ward to develop a comprehensive neighborhood plan; also working with Chicago Avenue redevelopment, Howard Street and the neighborhood storefront commercial facade program), graffiti removal (graffiti continues to rise in Evanston and between a graffiti technician and a private contractor they are continually busy cleaning up gmffiti in the CDBG Target Area), and a landmark preservation program (funds have not been requested for this program for several years). In response to a question from Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Ms. Aiello related the history of the Evanston Community Development Corporation (ECDC) and related the history of Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — Juh 16, 2002 Page 5 ECDC: started in mid- 1970's and funding through 1980's. ECDC had an initial focus on economic development in the Church./Dodge area. Once ECDC had started addressing economic development, it was realized that housing was an integral part of any community development in the area and they could not focus on just economic development, but had to look at the surrounding community. Ms. Aiello said that she thought that there was still a need for some of the small businesses that are trying to maintain themselves at Church/Dodge. She added that, part of what the City can do, is that once Lloyd Shepard is able to get out more into the community and identify what some of those needs are, he can offer more technical assistance in the form of business seminars in areas such as business planning, payroll, etc. Some businesses are so small that they cannot compete for jobs the City or others have available because they are 1-2 person operations. Christina Katmai Ms. Kappaz said that she is a relatively new resident of Evanston (2 years). She said that besides Northwestern, what really drew her to living in Evanston was the diversity of the neighborhoods. She said that just since she has been living in Evanston she has seen how much things are changing with rents skyrocketing. Ms. Kappaz said that she has begun to get involved with Interfaith Housing and to look more closely at the issue of affordable housing in Evanston and how it has become a major issue in Evanston. Ms. iCappaz said that she believes that the quality of Evanston and what it has been known for are at risk. She said that her research has revealed that the price of housing has increased 60'/o since 1994 and another 10% since 2000. She said that the cost of housing will continue to increase unless some action is taken. Ms. Kappaz said that she thinks there are opportunities for CDBG funding in affordable housing projects. Although funding for housing is a large line item in the CDBG budget, none of those dollars is going to leverage other funding; almost all CDBG funds are used to fund positions in the City. She noted that one or two non -profits received small sums of CDBG funding. She urged the committee to use more CDBG funding for local community development housing projects and suggested that one way to do this was to have inclusionary zoning. She said that there was already some direction addressing inclusionary zoning in the City. Ms. Kappaz said that several citizens are interested in assisting with this effort through research and she added that one use of CDBG funds would be to support further research on inclusionary zoning and other affordable housing issues. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 6 Suzanne Carlson. Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs Ms. Carlson discussed Interfaith's Homesharing program. She said that Evanston is a desirable community in which to live, especially for younger people who are just starting their working careers. These people struggle to find affordable housing in Evanston with rents which were S636 in 1990 for a one bedroom apartment to $856 in 2000. Many of the clients in the Homesharing program pay from S350 — 500/month. The number of home providers in Evanston has doubled in recent years; Interfaith receives many requests from people wanting to live in Evanston. It is also difficult for families with children to be able to afford to live in Evanston: a single-family detached house can cost S411,000+. Even a first time homebuyers program is well out of the reach of a middle income household. Unfortunately, Homesharing is not a good option for families. Usually the most Homesharing can do is to find housing for up to two people. Senior citizens these days have many opportunities for learning, activities, health care and shopping in Evanston within easy walking distance from their homes. There is also congregate housing for seniors of all income levels in Evanston. Evanston is the only north suburban community which has lost a significant number of seniors. Evanston gained a total of 1,000 persons in the 2000 census; but lost 1,440 residents of the age of 60, a 12% decline. Nine hundred seniors in Evanston are paying more than 50% of their income for housing. The high cost of housing is a prime reason why seniors cannot continue to live in Evanston. Most of Homesharing's home providers are older persons. What has happened is that Homesharing loses a 100 possible home providers a year in Evanston. Interfaith would like the committee to consider establishing a program whereby a subsidy for low income seniors who wish to stay in Evanston. A program such as this says to seniors that we want you to stay in Evanston. The program could be administered by the Commission on Aging, with the assistance of Evanston Skokie Valley Services, which could help to provide screening for the subsidies. This would be one very concrete way and not real expensive wfere CDBG funds could directly benefit some of Evanston's residents. Junad Rizdi Mr. Rizdi said that he is interested in receiving information on the CDBG program and what it does in Evanston. He said he would really like to know how to evaluate the programs which are funded with CDBG funds. He said he would like a presentation given to the community where it could see how CDBG funds have been used in Evanston. The city needs to review what it is spending CDBG Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- July 16, 2002 Page 7 funds on and determine whether it is spending a lot of funding on administrative costs. Regarding community development needs. Mr. Rizdi has observed that one of the needs in the community is to provide better transportation for wheelchair dependent people in Evanston. It takes someone up to a day to get to an appointment. The committee needs to determine who we are sen ing with CDBG funds and are we getting the maximum benefit from those expenditures. Sandi Johnson. North Shore Senior Center Ms. Johnson said she wanted to reinforce the need for funding for seniors. She said that the treed for affordable housing in Evanston is tremendous and supported a program the committee could provide with CDBG funds, a subsidy for seniors so that they are able to stay in their own homes. Ms. Johnson said that the North Shore Senior Center administers a program for the Village of Northfield which provides S1,000 a year to seniors for the purpose of helping them to remain in their own homes. She said that Glenview and Wilmette also pro%7de subsidy programs for seniors. Richard Tholin Mr. Tholin discussed inclusionary zoning as a tool for maintaining affordable housing and thought that the question was how to make it (affordable housing) happen. He said it was incumbent upon the committee and City Council to determine what results the City has had in terms of the actual production of affordable housing units. The City needs actual production of affordable housing units. Mr. Tholin discussed boarded up lousing in Evanston and subsidies for senior citizens. He wondered whether the City could buy some of those housing units, keep them on the market and work out a way to keep them affordable housing units for the people who need them. Would it be possible for the City to take some initiative in this area instead of just waiting for proposals to be submitted. Mr. Tholin also wondered where the developers were in this scenario. He said that inclusionary zoning was crucial to maintaining affordable housing in Evanston. He spoke about the Evanston Housing Commission's efforts to develop an affordable housing plan. Mr. Tholin discussed ways that cooperative efforts between the City and developers could be made, instead of just waiting for proposals to be received. Ann Jennett. Youth Job Center Ms. Jennett spoke about the continued needs of Evanston youth to have jobs. She said that sine 9/11 the job market has become a lot tougher. The Job Center has been seeing about 50-75 young people a day looking for summer jobs. In the Welfare to Work program, people who had been employed are usually the first to be laid off because they were last hired. Mr. Jennett urged the committee to support any jobs program for youth, particularly for 14-15 year olds. She said that Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 16, 2002 Page 8 research has shoti%•n that academic careers of young people who are working tend to improve. Some youth are working to help support their families. Ms. Jennett discussed the Ben and Jerry's Partnershop, which will be opening in Evanston this summer and she said that the Job Center might apply for CDBG funds to support jobs at the store, particularly for 14-15 year olds. Bettv Sue Ester Ms. Ester said that the committee should focus on housing. She said that CDBG funds have been spent on (City) staff salaries who administer housing programs for existing units through the minor repairs and handyman programs. She said that more CDBG fiords are needed to be spent on new housing. She said that a not -for -profit housing developer did come to the committee requesting funding but was sent to another committee. Ms. Ester suggested that the committee follow Aid. Rainey's lead in supporting inclusionary zoning in Evanston. She said that the Housing Commission has also taken on this matter and suggested that the committee join with the Housing Commission in developing an inclusionary zoning policy in Evanston. Ms. Ester also suggested setting aside a portion of CDBG funds to conduct studies or surveys and conduct educational programs for the community of the need to have inclusionary zoning in Evanston. Otherwise, Evanston will no longer be a diversified community, a community value which she believes is highly valued in Evanston. Diversity will remain for upper income residents, but low/moderate income families will be pushed out of Evanston. Ms. Ester thought that inclusionary zoning would be one way to keep Evanston a well rounded and diversified community. She said that CDBG funds could be set aside to help low/moderate income families have a better quality of life living in decent and affordable housing. She said that Evanston has not spent any CDBG funds to create housing units for low/moderate income families or made any great effort to add affordable housing units. She asked the committee to fully support the creation of inclusionary zoning in order to ensure affordable housing for low/moderate income families in the future. Mark Miller Ms. Miller introduced himself as an architect and a builder who lives in Rogers Paris but has done many projects in Evanston (i.e. Ixia Florist, residential renovations). As a result Mr. Miller said that he felt quite connected to the Evanston community. He said that many people have talked about the need for affordable housing and he knew that the committee was interested in receiving specific proposals. Mr. Miller said that he has designs for affordable housing and wanted to make the committee aware of them. Mr. Miller thought that ethically it was important to create Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — Juh• 16, 2002 Page 9 Mr. Miller thought that ethically it was important to create affordable housing as well as environmentally friendly housing. Mr. Miller said that he has designed for affordable housing and wanted to make the committee aware of them. Mr. Miller thought that ethically it was important to create affordable housing as well as environmentally friendly housing. Mr. Miller distributed informational materials about a "green" architectural design he (and Evanston architect Nate Kipnis) had created for lower income housing in response to a City of Chicago contest for affordable housing. He said that the base model could be built and sold for St 15,000 with S175,000 being the optimal price. The house which could be built for this amount would have 1600 sq.ft. on two levels. The housing was designed to fit on a typical Chicago lot, which is 25' wide by 125' deep. Mr. Miller said that the competition was an international one with 76 entrants. His and Mr. Kipnis' design came in among the top five designs. Mr. Miller discussed the 3 bedroom base model housing to be sold at $115,000. He said that this type of house was currently being built on Chicago's south side. The benefits of this type of construction were that the home will be "super" insulated, thereby reducing the cost of heating and cooling. He said that the $1,250 a year energy costs using this type of construction comes under the Energy Star certification program. Everything is done to tightly seal the building to keep air quality good. There is an air cycler which opens to let fresh air in several times an hour. Special materials are used in construction and to the maximum extent possible recycled materials are used. Mr. Miller said that the manufacture of these materials is intended to have the least impact on the environment, including using paint which is less volatile, and panelized construction. (Panelized construction) shortens the time of construction as well making it possible to erect the basic building within days rather than weeks. The heating system is passive solar Beating. Lots which are oriented to the south will get 30-50% of its heating during the winter months from solar heating (based on the amount of light in the Chicago area during winter). Mr. Miller said that the cost of heating the base model home would be $850 a year. Mr. Miller thought that the type of housing construction he discussed would be important not only to preserve affordable housing but also to set a precedent but would maximize the City's investment of its CDBG dollars. Mr. Miller also discussed two other housing designs, including townhouse, which he said was taking the single family concept and putting the units shoulder to shoulder. Ald. Kent said that he thought that the townhouse was one of the things which residents in west Evanston are discussing. He wondered whether the $115,000 — 150,000 units could be built with the caveat that the building be a two flat. Mr. Miller said that he had not been building these houses long enough to be able to give Ald. Kent a price for a two flat. Currently, there are five units under construction in Chicago. a Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 16, 2002 Page 10 The committee expressed great interest in Mr. Miller's proposal and asked him if he would be able to build one of the homes (he discussed) in Evanston with community support. Mr. Miller said that he thought that would be possible. Mamie Smith. Fleetwood/lourdain Communitv Center Ms. Smith said that she was an 19 year resident of Evanston. She said one of the difficulties with affordable housing was to define it — a 2 bedroom rental unit at S975/month and a i bedroom unit at S725/month is affordable to someone, but not to minimum wage families and those tmasitioning from welfare to work. The majority of people who have Section S certificates are not undesirable people. In defining affordable housing the committee must continue to look at the base income of Evanston's low/moderate income families. The CD Committee needs to work with the Human Relations Commission and the Evanston Housing Commission to define affordable housing in Evanston. Ms. Smith said that all her work with the City of Evanston over the past 18 years has been related in some way to community development. She discussed communities needs in her residential neighborhood in south Evanston and the needs of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center neighborhood, where she works. She discussed efforts over the years to restore the center and continue to make it a community based facility. Ms. Smith asked the committee to consider redefining its approach to funding proieets in the 5`" and 2nd wards. She discussed the recent transformation in Evanston as a whole. Ms. Smith considered the 50' ward to be a "diamond in the rough" •- ugly when first mined, but beautiful once it has been cut and polished. The P ward has a history of being the home of Black Americans in Evanston for over 100 years. Seventy percent of the African/American community in Evanston lives in the 5`� ward. Ms. Smith discussed the development of the research park and do%Titown Evanston and said that there had been major developments in every ward except the 5" ward. She said that the west side has a new Walgreen's store, 75 units of senior citizen housing, a Social Security office and a storage place at Simpson and Green Bay Road. She said that there are some community developers and landlords in the community who are not desirable. Sixty-five percent of housing in west Evanston is owned. This should indicate to developers that the community is stable and ripe for redevelopment. Local developers have purchase homes, rehabbed and sold them, and some have converted them into affordable housing units, but there has also been some conversion into multi -family dwelling with the City's knowledge. Some of these units have been grandfathered in. Ms. Smith said that there is a perception that the 5`h ward has a major crime problem which can be disproved by looking at Police crime statistics. Beat 77 has one of the Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 1l t one of the lowest crime rates in the City; what is reported is juvenile crime. There are very few home invasions and robberies. The problems are with teenagers, drop out rates and loitering and unemployment, which is not uncommon in the majority of minority communities across the nation. Ms. Smith discussed the commercial district at Church and Dodge and Simpson Street, made up of Mom and Pop establishments. Ms. Smith said that the P ward has substantial economic capacity and could support economic growth in the area. in a 24 hour period 11,580 cars passed through on Church Street and 13,279 cars on Dodge (Engineering Department). Ms. Smith said that the 5w ward is surrounded by green space, has access to good transportation routes and the residents want to stay in the area. However. most of them know that in order for development to come to the area, it could gentrify the area and cause current property owners to be priced out the neighborhood. Rather than focus on the community through external perceptions, Ms. Smith suggested looking at what the neighborhood has in it. She requested that a moratorium be established on land assembly at Church/Dodge, with the purchase of real estate by developers who have no intention to redevelop property now. Ms. Smith also suigested earmarking at least 50% of CDBG funding for the next ten years for the 5`h and 2 wards; that is what is needed. Ms. Smith concluded her remarks by noting that it is projected that 10,000 people will be added to central Evanston by the year 2010. She said that new residents may not have the same interest in Evanston as people who have been living in Evanston a long time, even a lifetime. Robert Rov. Evanston Community Defender Mr. Roy said that it is the government's responsibility for creating order, but it is the community's responsibility for establishing peace. He acknowledged the investment of the committee in human capital through its public services category CDBG grants. He said that it has become a way of life that people of modest income are in need of legal services but cannot afford it. The legal services prodded by the Evanston Community Defender's Office and the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago are important to the Evanston community. Mr. Roy said that a lot of kids seen at the Defender's office do not have an adequate place to live in the sense of a "home base". These kids often end up failing at school. Housing has to be adequate and the community needs to take steps so that lower income families can afford to keep and maintain their housing. Mr. Roy said there needs to be an adequate connection to the adult world. He discussed the difficulty young adults have in finding jobs because they have to reveal that they have had contact with the criminal justice system earlier in their lives. There are many kids who have made mistakes but are employable. What is needed is respite care of some type, i.e., a group home for transition from residential therapeutic placement back into the community. Many of those kids are placed in these communities because of what happens to them at home. One of the problems is that when it comes time to tm sition Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 12 back into the community, there is no middle step in the transition process which is community based. It could be a great help to have a transitional housing placement for these kids. Mr. Roy added that he felt Evanston was being short changed by having the Child Protection Division of the Circuit Court located at 1 I m and Hamilton in Chicago. The court's impact is diluted by the distance to this court. A branch of the Child Protection Division needs to be established at the Skokie Court house, where it can work with Evanston youth on a regular basis. P—egtie Jones Ms. Jones said that she lives on Dodge between Emerson and Church Streets. She said that she agreed with many of the comments previously stated at the public hearing. She wanted to add that there needs to be a safe place for children in her neighborhood to play. She discussed the heavy traffic on Dodge Avenue and how cars do not always observe the speed limit even though they are in a residential neighborhood. She asked that the Committee consider plans for this area which will incorporate some ideas for children to be able to play safely. The public hearing concluded at 9:15 p.m. V. UPDATES FROM CDBG GRANTEES Connections for the Homeless Will Sundblad discussed the three major programs offered by Connections: Hilda's Place for individuals who are homeless, the family housing program for homeless families in transition with wrap around services and Entry Point, which is the newest program provided by Connections. He introduced Kevin Foss, coordinator of the Entry Point program. Mr. Foss discussed the Entry Point program and achievements since it started to receive CDBG funds in March. There has been an increase in the number of homeless people on the streets, which is a function of the economy rather than anything else. The numbers are higher than staff had anticipated. Entry Point anticipated serving 25 clients a month, they are actually seeing closer to 30 intakes a month. By calling the 1-800 number, a client can received referral information or outreach contacts in Evanston. The focus of the program is to link homeless persons fast with shelter. The program can also link persons with mental health and drug and alcohol problems with assistance. Families also call Entry Point for financial assistance, i.e., rent, deposits, utilities. Entry Point Housing & Community- Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 13 Entry Point alone sees about 3-5 families a month and these are usually transferred to the Family Housing program. Entry Point's focus is on community partnerships with the Evanston Police Department (panhandling) and trying to provide services to people who really need help. When a person is homeless the priority is to get them into a stable housing situation before addressing other problems the client may have. Outreach is done in a different way in Entry Point. They have a van which goes about the community and they also have two bikes donated by the Evanston Police Department This makes it easier for visiting the lakefront, where homeless persons could be. Mr. Foss said that they receive about 5-10 calls a month from the Evanston Police Department Entry Point stag try to continuously get out in the community and make it aware of its services. For the first three years of the program they have tried to get people who were chronically homeless off the street and tried to get them to accept help in finding housing and other services. Entry Point works with a number of existing programs in Evanston. Now the staff is seeing persons who have been traditionally resistant to their services. Chronically mentally ill persons usually can find permanent housing through a program offered by Housing Options in Evanston. In response to a question from Aid. Kent about the number of people seen by the Entry Point program who are Evanston residents. Mr. Foss said that the program had served 120 people since it received CDBG funding in March. Forty-nine of those persons were Evanston residents. Entry Point has been able to plant approximately 7-10% of their clients in housing. For the four years that the Entry Point program has been in existence it has seen 950 people. The program averages about 30 intakes a month; not marry of the clients are repeat clients. Ten percent of Entry Point's clients are female head of household. Most clients range in age from 18-50 years old. Mr. Foss said that because there are a lot of churches in Evanston, there tends to be a high concentration of homeless people seeking services from those churches. Also the accessibility of Evanston by public transportation makes it a desirable location for homeless persons. Ald. Rainey wondered if of the persistent homeless in Evanston, were there clients who received general assistance. SSI or any other source of income. Mr. Foss discussed the typical profile of a chronically homeless persons: criminal record, not disabled, thecae is mental illness or some substance abuse problem. Evanston Community Defender Bob Roy discussed trends, stating that a lot more kids are being charged with more serious crimes. These crimes are not disappearing from their records once the person reaches age 17, so that they are appearing in adult court cases. He said that there are two different ways the system treats people under the age of Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 14 17 and older than 17. The adult system has no interest in looking into juvenile records to determine exactly what the juvenile matter was. which results in unintended consequences, such as employment. It is difficult for kids to obtain employment if they have had contact with the criminal justice system. The Community Defender's office talks about these issues with the policy makers. states attorneys and court officials. The Department of Children and Family Sen-ice (DCFS) is undergoing a massive reorganization again. Everything that was operative in the past is no longer working. There is no internal wrap around for DCFS clients. DCFS has been severely affected by the State's budget, which has reduced funding for services to youth and their families. Mr. Roy discussed problems youth have such as anger management and advocating for establishing a Juvenile Court Protection Division at the Skokie Courthouse. Services of this court should be more community based. He discussed one approach to juvenile justice. Mr. Roy said that the Chicago Bar Association had given the Community Defender a grant to be used to develop a marketing program to explain the mission of the Defender's office to the community. Community Defender has been partnered with two lawyers and is in the process of developing the marking strategy. it is hoped that this strategy will enable the Defender to garner additional funding for its programs. North Shore Senior Center Sandi Johnson, Executive Director of NSSC, introduced Pam Thomas, director of Evanston Skokie Valley Services (ESVS). She distributed new brochures to the committee. Ms. Johnson said that ESVS moved to 940 Dodge last December. Since the ESVS program started in Evanston in 1996 it has grown from a small staff of 7 to an office of 20 employees. The move has been great for the program; they have a lot of walk in traffic at this location, perhaps because of its proximity to the Evanston Township office. Ms. Johnson said that the funding received from the CDBG program covers almost all of one ease manager's position costs. The Evanston case manager is proactive and visits Primm Towers, the Fleetwood/Jourdain nutrition site and the Levy Center at least once a week. ESVS plans to use the Levy Center for its Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support group. Ms. Johnson said that most of their clients are very frail seniors, age 75 and over, 70% of their clients are women and all are very low income. Because of the funding received for the case manager's position, there is not a waiting list for services. The funding also helps NSSC leverage private funding from Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 15 foundations, such as Chicago Visiting Nurses Association and Baxter International Foundation. With funding from Baxter ESVS has been able to establish wellness programs in three of the senior buildings in Evanston and the groups meeting with a nurse monthly. The groups talk about specific health topics and blood pressures are monitored. Private funding from organizations such as the Elizabeth Morse Trust helps the grandparents group take outings. NSSC has also received funding from the Michael Reese Trust for a Russian language initiation; while much of the Russian community is in Skokie, there are several Russian speaking residents in the senior buildings. There am other case managers who are fluent in Spanish and some other languages. ESVS also works with translators to help explain the programs and services offered. Other programs offered by ESVS include a Caregiver Specialist program. There is one case manager who deals specifically with caregivers on an individual basis. ESVS has also been able to offer group programs for caregivers through a Tools for Caregivers class, the focus being how caregivers can provide care and take care of themselves at the same time. ESVS has respite funds available and lots of Evanston people are able to take advantage of that program. Overall, ESVS is seeing a lot of people in Evanston who have complex problems. Vl. REVIEW OF PROPOSED CDBG PROGRAM FUNDING CYCLE PROCEDURES, SCHEDULE AND PROPOSED APPLICATION MATERIALS FOR 2003/04 Sally Lufkin discussed the proposed application materials to be used by non -City and City departments in the upcoming 2003/04 CDBG funding cycle. She said that the application period would be opening on Monday, July 22d, with two orientation sessions to be held for non -City applicants. The application period will be open until September 13, 2002. Ms. Lufkin reviewed the schedule for the coming months and the committee's guidelines for reviewing funding proposals. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked whether the committee needed to discuss among itself what its objectives are and how the committee sees them. Ken Rodgers said that the committee discusses the various programs when it reviews the applications and determines whether the application meets certain criteria (set out by the committee). He added that there am limitations placed on the CDBG program, but applications submitted have mostly been previously discussed with Ms. Lufkin, who would tell a potential application whether its proposal is eligible for CDBG funding or not. Ald. Rainey discussed the fact that several organizations consider CDBG funding to be permanent and said that they should not become dependent upon the program for their funding. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 16 Discussion continued on the definition of affordable housing and the importance of some of the City sponsored housing programs, such as code compliance, which keep the housing stock from deteriorating and lowering property values in Evanston. The committee also noted that it could only respond to proposals, not create them itself. Ms. Lufldn pointed out that the City had another source of funding to create affordable housing: the HOME program with a S5d0,000 entitlement the past 2-3 years. VIOL COMMUNICATIONS A. Schedule for CDBG Project Updates B. Child Care Center of Evanston — 2001 Annual Report C. Howard Streetscape Update: June & July D. Housing Opportunity Development Corporation Information E. Reports/Statements from NCDA Annual Conference - HUD Report on Targeting CDBG Funds to Assist Low and Moderate Income Persons (submitted to Committees on Appropriations) - HR 1191 (CDBG Renewal Act) and FY 2003 CDBG Budget Proposal (given by Greg Hoover, President of NCDA before House Subcommittee on Housing & Community Opportunity) - Statement on HUD Appropriations for FY 2003 (given by Melvin Richardson, Fulton Co., GA before HUDNA Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee) - Statement on H.R. 3995, The Housing Affordability for American Act of 2002 (given by Javier Gonzales, Commissioner, Santa Fe County, NM) - Copies of Letters of Support for 2003 Funding for CDBG and HOME to several members of Congress F. HUD News Releases: - New HUD Report Identifies Barriers to Minority Homeownership, Outlines Bush Administration Actions to Overcome Them - Daily Focus Message 6/17/02 - Martinez Highlights President Bush's Initiative to Expand Homeownership Opportunities - Martinez Announces `Homebuyer Bill of Rights' - Secretary Martinez and National Homeownership Month Housing do Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 17 F. Information on HUD's Timeliness Guidelines G. HUD Notice about Use of CDBG Fins to Assist individual Development Accounts H. National Community Development Association Washington Report — June 25, 2002 Preservationists fight to revive old theaters - City plan promotes low-cost housing - In Duxbury, defining affordable f - Don't pin hopes on cappuccino sippers - Tarnish is coming off the inner ring - The old attracts the new to central Elgin, Dundees - Single -story houses make a comeback - Be it ever so humble, castle makes a comeback in sales- - More are retiring on the house - Study: Some lenders profit from racial gap - Miami probing U.S. housing program - Housing: Woes are just a city problem - Lisle: Grant to aid aging storefronts - Rolling Meadows: Panel backs zone change for shelter - Delinquencies chip a bit at the rock of housing - Two Flat: Condo dwellers taking two -flat route out of apartment living - Realtors win bank battle, maybe the war In Japan, home buyers are now demanding more - Envisioning skyscrapers scaled for living - Philadelphia reworks its Section 8 program - Towns to build housing for artists - Atlanta aims to revive blighted area with ambitious plan - In Florida, town offers mortgage lure to cops - North Lawndale to get fiats for the homeless - Renters have path to owning a home - Zoning rewrite to tackle city retail strips Ald. Rainey acknowledged receipt of the communication for the record. VIL STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Junad Rizdi spoke about the homeless population and said that City funding was servicing many non -Evanston residents. He also wondered whether the agencies in Evanston were working together on programs an noted that the schools in Evai stop are increasingly becoming low income. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 16, 2002 Page 18 Betty Sue Ester said that affordable housing is a big issue in Evanston. It will be an issue with this country for a long time. She spoke about Section 8 vouchers and the fact that Evanston has over 800 vouchers yet no units of affordable housing being built. She said that the developers needed to step up and help the City create affordable housing and suggested using CDBG funds for this purpose. Ms. Ester thought the energy efficient housing plans presented by Mr. Miller would make a good start in building affordable housing units.. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at H :10 P-M Staff. Date: August 20, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE Tuesday, August 20, 2002 Howard Street Outpost, 633 Howard Street 7:30 P.M. MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Kent, Horace Payne, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Deparvnent OTHERS PRESENT: Lloyd Shepard, Minority Business Program; Paul D'Agostino, Parks/Forestry & Recreation; Pamela Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Services; Dave Catanese, Northwestern University; Katiti Crawford, Genriyeta Papirov, YWCA -- Evanston/Northshore; Rev. Hardist E. Lane, Fisher Memorial AME Zion Church; William KoleN Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago; Torrio Osborne PRESIDWG OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m., a quorum being present. IL TOUR AND UPDATE ON HOWARD STREETSCAPE PROJECT Standing on the comer of Custer and Howard, Aid. Rainey brought committee members and guests up to date on the progress of the Howard Streetscape project. With the exception of identifier signs and ribbons, the Howard Street banner and installation of plantings (September), the construction is expected to be completed by August 31, 2002. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OFJULY 16, 2002 MEETING Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's July 16, 2002 meeting. The motion was seconded by Judith Treadway. Motion carried, 4-0. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - August 20.2002 Page 1 IV. PROGRANVPROJECT UPDATES FROM CDBG GRANTEES YWCA - Evanston.Northshore - Domestic Violence Program Gcnriyeta Papirov. director of the Domestic Violence program, introduced Katiti Crawford, Development Director for the YWCA - Evanston Northshore. Ms. Papirov discussed program accomplishments made since the beginning of the 2002/03 program year, 3/1/02: they have assisted with 190 court orders of domestic violence protection; served 360 women and children and provided shelter for women and children. She said that the Y's transitional housing program, started two years ago, has served nine families to date. Three families have graduated from the 2 year transitional housing program (i.e., families which have stayed in the shelter and then moved to an apartment). The Y currently has five (scattered site) transitional apartments in the Evanston area. Fisher Memorial A.ME Zion Church - Fresh Start Program Rev. Hardist Lane discussed his work with the Fresh Start program and its service to ex - offenders. He said that one of the things he cannot control is referrals made to him by IIlinois parole and prison officials, who have heard of his program. This makes it difficult for him to restrict the program to Evanston only residents and former residents. Committee members made suggestions for connections he could make to other Evanston service providers and also asked him to serve as many Evanston people as possible. Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago - Civil Legal Services Bill Kolen, supervising attorney for the Evanston office, said that he has been with the Legal Assistance Foundation for 20 years, the past 10 years in Evanston. He discussed the range of legal ser%ices offered to lowimoderate income residents. He said that a full- time domestic relations court is needed at the Skokie courthouse. Mr. Kolen said that a lot of the recent outreach work in Evanston has been with the Latino community. He works with Aracely Canchola, Outreach Coordinator for the City, particularly in immigration matters. The number of LAF's Spanish speaking clients is growing. Mr. Kolen said that LAF also works closely with the Domestic Violence program (YWCA) in meeting their clients' needs. Mr. Kolen said that there had been some discussion about relocating the Evanston office, but he reported that LAF will stay in Evanston. LAF is committed to an office in Evanston and outreach to the community. LAF plans to remain at 828 Davis Streit because of its accessibility to clients via public transportation. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - August 20, 2002 Page 3 Citv of Evanston - M/W/EBE Program Lloyd Shepard, Business Development Coordinator for the City of Evanston's Minority, Women and Evanston Business Enterprise program, said that interviews for the staff assistant will begin shortly and hopefully someone will be hired within the next 30 days. The City's recently hired Purchasing Director, Bobbie Tolson -Brown,, will be participating in those interviews. Mr. Shepard discussed the Sherman Plaza Redevelopment project. He said that the City will be conducting a pre -dialog conference with Evanston businesses only, particularly those in construction trades. The conference will be sponsored by the Evanston Chamber of Commerce and a minimum of twenty businesses should be represented (i.e., plumbing, electrical, heating/air conditioning, finish trades). Mr. Shepard said that the City's concern is that there is in Evanston the capability of small businesses to get involved (as an individual company) with a project which requires good capability. A single contract on the Sherman Plaza project could be S I million or more (i.e., garage, condo tower, 260,000 sq. ft. retail space). This group will also be meeting with representatives of W. E. O'Neill, general contractor, and Walker Parking Garage Consultants so that there will be an understanding that if any of these companies would like to enter into a joint venture with a prime contractor that O'Neill traditionally uses, O'Neill can made the joint venture possible. If small business are interested in partnering on the Sherman Plaza Redevelopment, this is the only way to get Evanston businesses involved in a large scale project. Mr. Shepard said that the M/W/EBE program conducted its first financing seminar on May 16, 2002 at City Hall. Forty-six companies were represented. He said that he plans to have a similar seminar each spring. Mr. Shepard announced two vendor fairs to take place in the coming months: October 9, 2002 in the Civic Center 4'h Floor Parasol Room (8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) and November 7, 2002 at Northwestern University (8:30 -12:30 p.m.). In addition to the City of Evanston and Northwestern University, the two school districts and hospitals will have representatives present in addition to private sector companies. Citv of Evanston - Parks/Forestry & Recreation Paul D'Agostino, Superintendent of Parks/Forestry, discussed five projects currently underway. 1) Harbert Park: located along the canal between Main and Dempster SwXts, is in its third and final phase. The picnic area has been finished and the third phase of the project was to install a Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — August 20, 2002 Page 4 gazebo. One of the neighbors objected to the installation of the gazebo, and Parks/Forestry has worked with the alderman and neighbors to resolve the issue. The gazebo has not been installed but it can be used in another park. The balance of the CDBG funds in this project are being used as a match for a grant from the State of Illinois to construct a new bike path through the park. 2) Beck Park: located along the canal south of Emerson, the project includes a new playground for ages 2-5, new lighting, additional landscaping, an entry feature with additional fitness stations and a reconstructed bike path. This project is on schedule and is approximately 35% completed. This project should be completed in November. 3) Master Plan for Fleetwood/Jourdain complex: Parks/Forestry has been working in conjunction with the Black Historic Sculpture Garden and the Fleetwood/Jourdain Art Guild. Conceptual designs are to be presented to the art building in September and then to the general public. It is hoped that the master plan will be completed by the end of the year. Parks/Forestry is moving ahead with the master planning process despite land ownership issues. 4) Fleetwood/Jourdain Center Locker Rooms and Lill: The project is to design and install a new lift bem-een the first and second floor of the center and design plans for rehabilitation of the men's and women's locker rooms. Design plans and construction documents are approximately 50% complete. Bidding will be done the end of September of early October with construction to take place during the winter 2002/03. 5) Twiggs Park: located between Bridge Street and Green Bay Road along the canal, this 1998/99 project was been substantially complete in August 2000. However, the contractor, Turf Care, has not finished the majority of the punch list items. Parks/Forestry is working with the Law Department to resolve this issue. The City wants to spend the remaining funds in this project to complete the punch list on its own. V. COMMUNICATIONS A. Evanston Housing Commission Minutes for July 18, 2002 B. Information on Inclusionary Zoning (Housing Convnission) C. Senate Begins Work on Funding Bill of Housing & Veterans' Programs D. NCDA Washington Reports for July 19 and August 6, 2002 E. Girl Scouts — July 2002 Outlook and 2001 Annual Report F. Housing Options — Summer 2002 Homefront G. Connections for the Homeless — Summer 2002 Newsletter Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — August 20, 2002 Page 5 H. HUD News Releases: - Midwest Mortgage Leader Agrees to Settle Illegal Lending Charges Brought by FTC, HUD and State of Illinois Bush Administration Announces "Appraiser Watch" — New Protections for Homeowners - Martinez Outlines Bush Administration Strategy to Combat Chronic Homelessness - Daily Focus Massage for 7/23/02 re Horne Ownership Month - Bush Administration Unveils New Homeownership Initiative - Bush Administration Announces Additional Protections for Homebuyers to Curb Predatory Landing I. Newspaper Articles Vl. STAFF/CMZEN COM!% NT There was no staff/citizen comment. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m. StafF Date: September 17, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Wednesday, September 12, 2002 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Rainey, David Schoenfeld, Judith Treadway MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Develop Depsrsmem OTHERS PRESENT: : f PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Md. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present. EL COMMUNICATIONS ; A. Average Home Sales Prices 1999-Present B. Community Development News C. Newspaper Articles - HUD eyes cuts in rental funding - Green roofs in the new and improved stage - Neighbors oppose this high -density housing plan - Education buyers can be successful homeowners - From blight to building: new face of New Orleans - More seeking subsidized housing in Detroit - More money for mortgages - Harmony's promise: A place for humans, room to iraaux - Most Americans' wealth in based on owning a home - A+lama-area foreclosures continue to climb higher Investigators discover HUD is not reporting all problems - Refinancing fees prompt a borrower question: Why? - Slowing economic is boon for home buyers in Denver - Program may help Muslims pay for homeownership - Aurora may lower proposed residential developer fees - Fiber-optic program connects community - Watching the affordability factor - St. Charles — Financial assistance plan would aid home buyers - City loans for taxes expanded Housing do Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- September 12, 2001 Page 2 - DuPage urges aid for smaller rentals - Sidewalks are welcome in new subdivisions - California is moving toward shortage of new, existing homes - New residents are finding lower housing costs in Ohio The communications were accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. III. REQUEST TO AMEND GUIDELINES FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD SECURITY PROGRAM ' ` Sally Lufkin discussed a proposed amendment to the eligibility requirements for the Neighborhood Security Program. She discussed a set of applications received from a group of adjacent multi -family property owners in the 5'ward and the request from an adjacent commercial property owner to be included in the security (fencing) program. The guidelines for eligibility for the Neighborhood Security Program currently allow the program to be offered only for multi -family residential structures located in the CDBG Target Area. Ms. Lufkin said that staff is requesting that, on a case by case basis, that commercial properties adjacent to residential property be eligible to participate in the program, when the external building security improvement would enhance the overall security for the multi -family building(s) in addition to the commercial property. After discussion about the merits of the proposal, Judith Treadway made a motion not to amend the Neighborhood Security Program guidelines to allow adjacent commercial property owners to participate in the program, keeping the eligibility guidelines for owners of multi -family residential properties only located within the boundaries of the CDBG Target Area. The motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion canine, 4-0. IV. MONTHLY REPORTS - July Monthly Reports - Discussion of monthly reports previously distributed to the Committee Ms. Lufkin discussed the background and procedure for submission of monthly reports by public services grantees and CEDA and the reports submitted by grantees of all other CDBG funded projects. The Committee reviewed the July monthly reports as well as reports previously received. It was the consensus of the Committee that not enough information is being conveyed in the monthly reports and that staff should return to requesting quarterly reports which not only provide data and expenditures but narra ive information on the status of the programs. Ms. Lufkin said that she would work on revising the report form/format and implement it in the next program year. Housing do Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 12, 2001 Page 3 V. STAFF/Cl'i'IZEN COMMENT Ms. Lufkin announced that representatives fivm HUD's Chicago office would be visiting Evanston on September 26m at 10:00 am. to provide the City with HUD's annual assessment of HUD fimded activities in Evanstor. All Committee members are invited to attend. VL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Staff: . Date: March 19, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE Tuesday. October 8.2002 Room 2404, Evanston Civic Center 7:30 P.M. ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION ON THE CITY'S MINORITY, WOMEN AND EVANSTON BUSINESS PROGRAM MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Horace Payne MEMBERS ABSENT: Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld M/W/EBE COMMITTEE Dick Peach, chair, Joanne Teagan, Bennie Jones, Brian Harris MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Departmatt; Bill Stafford, Bobbie Tolston-Brown, Lloyd Shepard, Finance Department OTHERS PRESENT: Paula Haynes, Hollis Settles, Human Relations Commission; Herb Hill, Law Department; Judith Aiello, City Manager's Office, Rona Taylor, Dorothy Floyd, George Mitchell, Bennett J. Johnson PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey. Chair I. CALL TO ORDER Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7.10 p.m. She welcomed membersof the community and the Minority, Women and Evanston Business (M/W/EBE) Committee to the Roundtable Discussion. She explained that the reason for scheduling a special meeting was to discuss minority, women and Evanston business participation in construction projects taking place in Evanston. Bill Stafford, Finance Director for the City of Evanston, opened the discussion and introduced City staff members who would be participating in the discussion. He said that he was pleased that this discussion was taking place, as it would help his department to further define and improve its minority participation programs. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 2 Mr. Stafford said that the City is very serious about its M/W/EBE program. He said that one of the objectives of tonight's meeting is to clarify what kinds of minority participation programs the City has and to discuss the policies related to those programs. Bobbie Tolston-Brown, Director of Purchasing, discussed the City's M/W/EBE programs. Ms. Tolston-Brown said that the City has four distinct programs: 1) 15% participation by Evanston residents for projects bid out by the City over $15,000 and a 25% participation goal, which also applies to subcontracted projects over 515,000; 2) redevelopment agreements, have a 25% NVWIEBE participation requirement. This applies to the subcontracting side, which is separate from the 15% Evanston resident participation. 3) 5% preference for Evanston businesses. This program is for any contract bid out over S 15,000. 4) program for employment with employment goals which attach to the contract (special for sewer projects). She said that the City of Evanston can only maintain control over projects which it has bid out and is funding, i.e., Church Street Plaza Development, which had a 25% goal for subcontracting. The City can only discuss and try to influence other construction projects but cannot mandate requirements on projects which are not sponsored or paid for by the City. Ms. Tolston-Brown said that she has placed copies of the policies relating to the four programs on the table near the door, including a copy of the agreement for the Church Street Plaza project, the ongoing sewer improvement project and employment goals specific to that project, and a copy of the City's policy on the 25% subcontracting requirement. She asked that people review these policies to understand what the City of Evanston is trying to do with contracting/subcontracting and M/W/EBE participation. Ms. Tolston-Brown explained that Lloyd Shepard, the City's Economic Opportunity Coordinator, ensures that a copy of the City's (minority participation) policy and three schedules are included in the City's bid documents. A contractor must complete and submit these schedules to the City for review prior to execution of the contract The City makes sure before the projects are awarded Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 3 that whatever documentation is required, as a part of the City's policy, is on file in Mr. Shepard's office. %When Mr. Shepard monitors projects for compliance, he uses the forms the contractor has submitted for the project for determining compliance. She explained that a 25% minority participation requirement does not mean that the contractor has to have, for example, 5% African American participation. 5% Pacific Islanders, etc. There are no specific goals for individual racial groups; whatever comprises the minority makeup on a project will be accepted by the City, as long as it can verify that the persons listed are minorities. On redevelopment agreements, the City does have some mechanisms in place whereby the City can enforce certain penalties on the contractor, if he/she is not in compliance with the requirements. Contracts that are bid out through the City's regular bidding process, do not have these same requirements. Ms. Tolston-Brown said that the policies are very specific as to their requirements and to what projects and contracts they apply. Ms. Tolston-Brown said that she and Mr. Shepard attend pre -bid conferences to explain, upfront to explain the City's minority participation requirements, what the City means by compliance, to explain terminology and what the City will look for when it performs on - site monitoring. The City wants the contractors to understand the City's role in the project and the contractor's requirements. Ms. Tolston-Brown discussed an issue which came before the (City Council's) A&PW Committee regarding an Evanston resident who felt that he was discriminated against in an ongoing construction project. She discussed the role of the City's Human Relations Department is investigating any instances reported to them regarding employment discrimination. Ms. Tolston-Bro Am introduced Paula Haynes, Executive Director of the Human Relations Commission, to explain how the City's employment discrimination policy works. Ms. Haynes discussed the City's fair employment practices ordinance, which sets parameters regarding public contracts. One of the pieces is that, if a person feels that he/she has been discriminated against by a contractor/subcontractor, then he/she must file a charge of discrimination with the City's Human Relations Department within 90 days of the alleged violation. Upon receipt of the complaint, the Human Relations Department will investigate the complain and make a determination whether discrimination occurred and is substantiated or not. If the Human Relations Department believes, as a result of the investigation, that discrimination has occurred, the department will work with the parties to try to reconcile the matter. If the investigation results in a finding of "no merit" to the charge, a written statement is issued and the complainant will have 20 days within which to appeal. The appeal is heard by the Human Relations Commission. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October S, 2002 Page 4 Ms. Tolston-Brown discussed ways in which the City can become more proactive in promoting its minority participation program throughout the community. The Purchasing Department has three events coming up in the next three/four weeks. Next week, the City will be hosting a vendor fair at the Civic Center on October 16u' from 8:30 — 12:00 p.m. The purpose of the vendor fair is to let residents, visitors and other interested business entities that are interested in doing business with the City of Evanston know about upcoming contracting opportunities. The City wants to explain its program, how it works and provide any contractor opportunities that are available at that time. Vendors will also have exhibits at the fair to show that the City attracts small, medium, large, minority and women -owned businesses. Those businesses will be exhibiting on October le. On October 17'h W.E. O'Neal, the contractor for the Sherman Plaza project, has agreed to work with the City to ensure that they will meet their 25% contracting goal. Any Evanston resident, any Evanston business, or any women owned or minority business is invited to this meeting to discuss this project. The length of the project will be approximately 24 months, so there will be many opportunities for M/W/EBE participation. This type of meeting is also one of the City's goals; to get the word out early enough so that the contractors can meet their minority participation goals. On November 7 h, the Citywill be sponsoring an event in conjunction with Northwestern University, to be held on the Northwestern campus from 8:30 a.m. — 12:00 p.m. Mr. Williams, complainant in a discrimination in hiring case, said that his situation was not a discrimination complaint, but rather a situation where the contractor was not including 15% or 25% Evanston residents in the construction project. He said that he was the only person not able to get a jab on the project. He added that he does have work now on the south side of Chicago, but wanted to point out that there are other people in Evanston who would like to work on Evanston construction projects. Ald. Rainey said that there are two distinct issues in Mr. William's issue: discrimination based on minority hiring, but the real issue is who is and who isn't in compliance. She added that the City can demand compliance and impose sanctions for lack of compliance on redevelopment contracts. There are agreements between the City and the developer which govern minority participation compliance. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Tolston-Brown to clarify whether the City can enforce City project requirements. Ms. Tolston-Brown replied that funds could not be withheld from the contractor. in the Church Street Plaza Development agreement, she said that there is a clause which says that the City may withhold funds from the contractor for non-compliance. Lloyd Shepard, Economic Opportunity Coordinator for the City of Evanston, said that on other Housing & Communitf Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 5 projects (i.e., paving, sewer) the contractor is encouraged to hire low income residents, unemployed and underemployed residents. It also states that the contractor should endeavor to reach 15% of the total workforce hours with Evanston residents. The program is basically voluntary. Because of voluntary compliance, the City has a difficult time enforcing 15% minority or Evanston resident/business participation. Aid. Rainey commented about the City's point system in evaluating bids. Additional points are awarded a contractor who says that he/she is planning to following Evanston minority participation requirements, What happens to the contractor who makes this promise and has been awarded an extra five points because of his promise to include minority participation in the contract, yet does not follow through? Mr. Stafford explained that the City has a requirement and a contractor is evaluated in terms of 25% participation of M/W/EBE businesses. There is also a policy of 15% inclusion or trying to get Evanston residents hired on City sponsored construction projects. The City has no sanctions on the 15% policy. Contractors have to qualify as to their 25% minority participation, which is monitored onsite visits. Mr. Stafford said that if a contractor is not meeting minority participation goals, the City can go to the contractor and urge him to increase his M/W/EBE participation. Specific sanctions are spelled out in the redevelopment agreements. On general City contracts, there are no specific sanctions. Mr. Stafford thought that the City was getting a high rate of compliance on City contracts. Mr. Shepard read a summary of M/W/EBE Participation in City contracts awarded by the City Council for the period March 1, 2002 — October 4, 2002: both for contracts over $15.000 and forbids awarded under $15,000 (copy attached). Aid. Rainey asked members of the MinorityVomen's/Evanston Business Committee if they saw any problems with the City's minority participation performance goals and results? Dick Peach, chair of the M/W/EBE Committee, said that the Evanston Chamber of Commerce had recently sent out 200 letters inviting Evanston businesses, along with whatever the City sent out, inviting them to meet with W. E. O'Neill on the Sherman Avenue Redevelopment project. Eleven businesses came to the meeting. Mr. Peach said that W.E. O'Neill is a large contractor which uses all union labor. Mr. reach added that there is not a union electrical contractor within twenty miles of Evanston. None of the electrical contractors in Evanston is a union shop; therefore, they cannot participate in the Sherman Avenue project. The plumbers may be the only trade unionized in Evanston. As a result, on large contracts, many Evanston businesses are actually excluded because they are not union shops. This situation inhibits what the M/EIEBE Committee can do to assist Evanston residents and businesses in getting work on large construction projects. M Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2082 Page 6 Mr. Peach said that projects in which small businesses could become involved could be ones sponsored by the school districts or City projects. Ald. Rainey asked how small unionized businesses, such as drywall, painters, carpenters, how do they get hired? Mr. Peach responded that there is nothing in the contract which mandates that only union companies can participate in a project such as the Sherman Avenue Redevelopment project. Mr. Stafford added that one of the things the City is trying to do at the job opportunity fairs is to encourage joint proposals, where the City can link Evanston based tradesmen with these companies and larger companies. He said that these companies do not work with small non -unionized companies as a matter of course and it is something that the City is trying to promote so that Evanston businesses will receive some of these contracts. He discussed examples of linkages between small businesses and larger contractors. Judith Aiello said that if the smaller contractor chooses to do a joint venture, it will have to pay union wages for that project. A lot of the contractors don't want to have to pay their employees more for certain jobs and then return to regular wage rates for other jobs. That is another issue, but the City has to be aware of how the small businesses want to run their businesses. Ald. Rainey said that a lot of individual workers in Evanston are members of unions, such as carpenters, but they do not belong to union businesses. Ms. Aiello said that that is the Citv's hope that these people will attend the pre -bid conferences to learn what linkages can be made with subcontractors, so that they can participate in a larger constriction project. They City always encourage companies to hire Evanston residents first, if it needs additional employees, but it cannot dictate the work force for the company, if the company already has it in place. She discussed the construction of the Levy Senior Center and how the City worked with the general contractor in carefully reviewing each line item on the project to gain M,`W/EBE participation While the City paid more for the project, it wanted to support the concept of M/W/EBE hiring. AU Kent discussed both non -union and union businesses and the 1 S% participation by Evanston residents. He wondered how businesses are encouraged to develop training programs for local residents and how the City could encourage companies doing business with the City to help provide job skill training which will enable residents to obtain union cards and eligibility for union work. Bennie Jones said there is a way to do this and he thought that the Committee had moved forward to encourage this. Making linkages and connections must be done on the front end of a project, not once a project is underway. The City cannot mandate and monitor projects once they have started. Mr. Jones said that he thought this was an area in which the (M/W/EBE) committee could get more involved and strengthen MIW/EBE and percentage requirements before the contract is signed Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 7 It was clarified for Aid. Rainey that Evanston's 15% is the dollar value of the project, which means that 15% of the contractor's work force must be M/W/EBE businesses. Mr. Jones added that a contractor's current employees cannot be displaced by Evanston residents, just to meet performance goals, but that if new hires are needed for the project, then a 15% goal must be achieved to be in compliance. Ald. Bernstein discussed the various job fairs that the City was either sponsoring or participating in and suggested that the City use those fairs to match workers with contractors seeking help. He thought that it was incumbent upon the City to be able to link people with contractors. He asked what is meant by a "good faith effort" and how the City goes about granting waivers on MIW/EBE contracting goals. Lloyd Shepard said that the waiver requirements are spelled out in the general specification which the City has for minority, women and Evanston business participation. There are a number of steps in the waiver requirement which the contractor must go through in due diligence in seeking out M/W/EBE participation in a project. The contractor has to run an ad in the newspaper, two consecutive days, fifteen days prior to the bid opening to make sure that they give any M/W/EBE businesses time to receive a solicitation or time to pick up specifications and drawings for a project. This gives the prospective bidder time to clarify any questions about the participation and other requirements. The bidder needs to submit evidence that he actively solicited either over the phone or in writing that they corresponded by mail. The Dodge Report is another mechanism that contractors can use to advertise for M/W/EBE participation. Mr. Shepard said that this is not an easy process for a contractor to go through in order to obtain a waiver. Aid. Bernstein asked whether the %VWiEBE Committee had the "teeth" to develop a pool of resource personnel. He said that he is concerned that the City has enough manpower to provide for these contractors. He said that it is his understanding that the waiver applies only to the 25% because we encourage or endeavor to get them to voluntarily meet the 15% requirement. Aid. Rainey said that the place where the most "funny business" can take place is in hiring the new hires, the 15%. How does the City know that contractors do not go to the union halls and hire people when they need to add on to their workforce. It doesn't seem like the City knows whether that happens or not. Hollis Settles said that his concern is that the rhetoric is not the reality. Where is the enforcement? Perhaps fifteen days is not sufficient time to meet the contract requirements. If the Minority Business Committee is monitoring and enforcing compliance, the City needs to make sure that the committee is sufficiently staffed and has the resources to monitor the project. He said that somehow there does not seem to be enough "teeth" in the policy to adequately enforce it. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 8, 2002 Page 8 Mr. Jones said that he thought there one of the issues was monitoring the contractor's compliance for the 25% NCI%'IEBE requirement and employment, which is a separate issue. He said that he has not heard anyone complain that there were not enough contracting or subcontracting opportunities. Aid. lean -Baptiste said that the effort to put in place regulations and policies to encourage greater (M/W/EBE) participation is to solve the problem that the majority of firms were not going out and seeking M/W/EBE for construction projects. Under the general heading of minority participation, African Americans, particularly in Evanston, have been lost in the shuffle and cannot be found in terms of levels of participation. The thrust and spirit of the policy in place has been forgotten. Employment becomes a good way for people to get "a leg up". However, we are missing the target all together. At this particular point in time, the Committee has to make some hard recommendations as how to go forward from this point. The problem seems to be that people like Mr. are not able to find work on projects in Evanston, even though there appear to be many opportunities. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested `stepping outside of the box" and begin talking about implementing policies and how to improve policies which have flaws in them. The present policies do not seem to helping minorities in Evanston, we need to move to a conversation on how to make the policies work based on your observation and experience. The City needs to get back to what is the spirit of the policy, which may have been compromised over time, of what do we want to do and how do we get it done. Aid. Rainey asked First Corporation Herb Hill if the City can require the hiring of Evanston residents for its construction projects. Mr. Hill responded that when the City was investigating implementing a 5% Evanston business issue, the research showed that in promoting the tax base and the infrastructure of the City, the City could make discriminatory decisions to support its businesses. Regarding mandating whether individual employees may work for a company, there are three constitutional provisions which could limit the City's ability to impose certain requirements: (1) privileges and immunities - a citizen of one state has the same rights and benefits as a citizen of another state. To some extent that could limit what the City does. (2) modified commerce clause - the City could be interfering with commence, which is to be free and unimpeded throughout the country. By putting a residential preference on a project, the City would be impeding, with the commerce clause. (3) equal protection With respect to what the City is trying to do here, Mr. Hill said that with businesses, the City is on secure ground, but with mandating numbers or percentages of Evanston residents, the City is on less secure ground. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 9 Another concern is determining what dollars were being spent by the City. If the City is spending general fund tax dollars on projects, it has unfettered discretion within the standards of these constitutional limits to make determinations. If the City is acting as a "shopper" in the marketplace, it can choose how to spend those dollars to affirm a certain goal, i.e., want Evanston residents to work on the project. When the City moves away from projects solely funded with local tax dollars, then the federal govetmnent will prevent the City from making discriminatory decisions, choosing one person over another person, because everyone should have an equal opportunity at that pot of money. Further the City would have to make a determination as to the factual basis and analysis done to show why it is choosing to act in this manner. Mr. Hill concluded his remarks stating that with businesses, there is more clarity in the law, but with individuals, the issue becomes less clear. George Mitchell said that he was somewhat discouraged, listening to the conversation about efforts to meet the spirit of the goals set forth by the City. He said that in the City of Chicago contractors know exactly with whom to subcontact. He suggested that the larger contractors in Evanston know exactly who to go to for subcontracting as well. He agreed that minority and Evanston resident goals need to be set "up front" in a contract and monitored for compliance. Bennett Johnson said that the situation discussed was not new and that there had been thinking outside of the box. He discussed the concept of joint ventures. Mr. Bennett talked about a painting contractor who put together a large pool of small contractors in an effort to try to get some of the contracting jobs in Evanston for members of this group. They were partially successful. He said that there has to be a determination on the part of the City that it is going to do something to include more Evanston, women -owned and minority contractors in City sponsored projects. This way the City can discuss its contracting goals when it meets with the general contractor prior to the start of the job. Mr. Bennett also discussed a CTA construction job in Chicago and his experience with a company in which he was part owner. He concluded his remarks stating that the City needs to be constantly proactive in the area of minority, women and Evanston participation in City sponsored construction projects. The City needs to set up programs where small contractors arc cultivated and assisted in their capacity development. The same strategy applies to employees. must be constantly proacti%e where young adults can be recruited and assisted in finding jobs which would include training. Ald. Kent asked whether the City could require a construction company (with which the City plans to do business) to develop a training program, if they are going to take money out of the City of Evanston? He said that he has heard in the past that the reason the City could not do this was that a Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 10 "we were not all on the same page" and once the contract was signed, the opportunity was gone. Mr. Hill responded that if the project were funded entirely with Evanston dollars, the City could set parameters for the project. Should the City decide that, as part of a project, there be a training program component, which means in essence that the City will be paying for the training program by adding funds for that purpose to the project, then that is something which the City can put into its bid package and evaluate when the bids arc received. Aid. Kent said that was his intention; we (the City) seem to be always coming in at the end of the bid/contract award process and hoping that the contractor will have a training program and jobs for Evanston residents. If the City can put the requirement up fnomt, then the companies which bid on the project will know what the City is looking for on this particular project. Mr. Hill said that the standards are different for the protected category of the group the City is trying to benefit. The City will have to do an analysis of why it wants to have a specific program which will benefit a particular group (minorities, women, residents). It can't just say we want this program; there has to be a rationale for the program. He discussed the contractors' agreement, in entering into a contract with the City, to follow fair employment practices and the role of the Human Relations Commission in investigating any complaints which could arise. If there is a finding of discrimination, the City Council has the power to cancel rescind the contract in effect. Aid. Rainey asked for examples of projects over the past two years which only had City money invested in them and where including a training component, along the lines suggested, by Aid. Kent, would be worth doing. Ms. Aiello responded that any of the GO Bond and capitol budget projects. Aid. Rainey expressed some frustration with having to add more money to the very large construction projects, which are already $22 or $23 million. Mr. Aiello said that there are other organizations which deal strictly in job training and would probably be better at providing training programs instead of having the general contractor undertake training. She said that before the City enters into an unfamiliar area. such as job training, it ought to explore who is already doing job training. Bennie Jones spoke about job readiness v. ability to find work. He said that a job training program addresses one issue, being trained to fund work in a certain trade, but it does not help people who are already trained to find employment. Ms. Aiello said that if a person attempts to get hired on a City funded project, has the required skills, and believes he/she is not hired because of discrimination, then he should file a complaint with the City's Human Relations Commission. She Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October S, 2002 Page 11 added that is the company was not hiring at the time of inquiry, that is unfortunate. All construction companies have their own crews that they bring to a project and they may not have job openings. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that the whole response to training was the cost of doing it. He said that he thinks he knows what the City's intent is. however, the Council is always talking about the cost of diversity. The type of projects being discussed are ones which help people to "get by". There is a cost that the City incurs for putting on a training program for people who currently are falling through the cracks. If the City intend to try to bring everyone around the table, encourage job training and hiring, then the City can set new policies and ask for what the City wants. He acknowledged that there are state and regional job training programs already in place, but the City has not marshaled these resources to help Evanston residents. Ms. Aiello said that she did not disagree %ith Md. Jean-Baptiste's comments, but pointed out that contractors are not going to be able to provide job training for the City for free. They will include, as cost of the project, a job training component per City direction. She said that in the past the directive to staff' has always been to help Evanston, minority and women owned businesses and the City has been successful. She said that if there is a change in direction of the City policy, then staff will research the proposal to make sure that the City is not breaking the law and opening itself up to future lawsuits. Then a policy could be developed and adopted in the direction the Council would like to go. Ald. Bernstein wondered what resources the City had available now to spur interest in job training and/or hiring of minority, women or Evanston residents. He asked whether the City could continue to monitor (minority, women owned and Evanston businesses) at the 25% rate, while go into these other areas. Ald. Bernstein said that he heard from the discussion that the City has been doing very well in achieving its 25% M/W/EBE participation requirement and staff reviews the numbers every month to analyze whether the 25% M/W/EBE requirement is happening. Verification of this requires on -site monitoring. He asked whether there were enough staff and Committee resources to marshal the assets available to provide training? He said he was still hopeful that the City would be able to identify companies who can draw from the M/W/EBE pool of trained personnel. He said that he is still hopeful that, at the beginning, many people would come forward if training were offered by the City or through a contract funded by the City. Through the City's resources, companies ybeen identified individuals for the 15% requirement. He wondered whether the City had the ability to do that and still monitor projects for 25% compliance. Ms. Tolston-Brown said that the Finance Department's objective is to build up the data base of Evanston based minority and women owned businesses. At pre -bid meetings, the City can learn from the analysis of who plans to bid on a project. She said that staff will be presenting some Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 12 proposed changes to the City's A&PW Committee with some recommendations for changes. The City will ask, as part of the bid document, what the makeup is of the company in several different areas, from management down to hourly employees. The whole make up of the company will be evaluated and based on the information given about the workforce in relation to their ability to meet the 25% M/W/EBE requirements, there are the resources which you can use to meet your requirements. Ald. Rainey asked the monitoring component (of the Minority Business Program) and whether the Purchasing Department had the capacity to find the people to enter training programs. Bill Stafford replied that the City will have to be very clear, if it intends to expand the scope of its minority, women -owned and Evanston business program. Right now, staff cannot do both things: recruit people for training programs and monitor contract compliance. Ald. Bernstein said that he wanted to know in which areas the City's money is being spent the best: for contract compliance or for helping residents become trained so that they can find work? Dick Peach said that the City has a fairly extensive database and it is available to interested persons. He said that as chair of the Minority Business Committee, he is not clear at this point in time what the City's direction is on increasing minority, women - owned and Evanston businesses in Evanston construction projects. He felt that what is needed is a redefinition of the charge to the committee. Aid. Rainey said that the purpose of the discussion was not to be a policy making session, but for the CDBG Committee to conduct a roundtable discussion so that the committee could hear how confused and concerned people are about the City's minority, women - owned and Evanston business program. Aid. Bernstein asked for the Minority Business Committee to give the CDBG Committee some feedback on where it thinks it can do the most good. Ms. Tolsten-Brown said that the reason for the discussion was that staff needed to understand what the community's perception was of the City's MIW/EBE program. She said that, as a new employee of the City, she appreciates the opportunity to analyze from a staff position what the issues are. First, staff will have to look at the City's current policies. Second, put mechanisms in place for tracking progress. The most important thing is for the contractor to understand what it is the City wants him/her to do. This needs to be clearly explained up front at the pre -bid meetings. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what the outcome would be to have more Evanston people hired, more Evanston people trained, more minority persons trained and hired and more benefits to the people of Evanston who need the training and jobs. He said he needed to know whether the outcome can be achieved under current policies. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — October 8, 2002 Page 13 Aid. Rainey said that she was looking for direction from citizen participants as to what direction the City should go in minority contracting. Bennett Johnson discussed the Chicago situation for the painters union where a sub - apprentice category was set up for the CTA contract, which cost the city nothing. He added that the City ought to talk to the unions to see if sub -apprentice categories can be added to job classifications. Mr. Johnson added that the contractor holding the contract will have to explain his staffing. Aid. Rainey asked if there was any reason why the Minority Business Committee could not meet with union representatives and have a dialog on this subject. Dick Peach said that the committee would like to meet with the unions to discuss this matter. Discussion ensued about union v. non -union jobs. Aid. Kent said that he will continue to bring up training programs, because there is a group of people who cannot get their "foot in the door" on jobs. He added that it is a slight to Evanston residents to not be able to participate on Evanston construction projects. He said that he doesn't understand how a large contractor, like W. E. O'Neill, can come into Evanston with their own work force. He reiterated that there is no linkage for people just trying to get their "foot in the door". The staff and elected officials of the City of Evanston should be able to develop a policy which will provide people with the opportunity to find work on Evanston construction projects. He discussed the training program developed for the sewer project. Bennie Jones said that incentives could be built into contracts so that the desired outcome is achieved. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Williams if he understood that part of Lloyd Shepard's responsibilities did not include employment assistance and that if he thought he had been discriminated against when he sought work with a contractor participating in an Evanston project, that he could go to the City's Human Relations Commission and file a complaint? Mr. Williams discussed his experience with the contractor. Aid. Jean - Baptiste said that the City's current policy does not include sanctions which can be imposed by the City on contractors. Aid. Rainey thanked everyone who participated in the roundtable discussion. She said that Mr. Williams was not just a complainer, but a skilled person looking for work who has experienced the type of employment problems discussed. She said that there will be a future meeting to follow up on the discusssion. The meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m. J r r Star 5;-. Date: DecemlAr 30, 2002 HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, October 15. 2002 7:00 F.M. - City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Ald. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, MEMBERS ABSENT: None CHAIR: Aid. Rainey STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske OTHERS PRESENT: Oliver Gray and Julie Gray, Treasure Chest Summer Camp; Bill KoIen, Legal Assistance Foundation; Christie Dailey, YWCA; Tony Lee, YMCA; Susan Murphy, Evanston Ecumenical Action Council; Barbara Davis, Dolores Malone, School for Little Children; 1. CALL TO ORDER Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Ald. Rainey welcomed the audience and explained that each applicant will have 15 minutes to present their application and receive questions from the Committee. II. STAFF OVERVIEW OF ESTIMATED 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM FUNDING AND PROPOSED REALLOCATION OF UNEXPENDED CDBG FUNDS TO THE 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM YEAR. Sally Lufkin, grants administrator, stated that the 2003 HUD funding bill has not yet been approved by Congress, so 2003 allocations for the CDBG program are unknown at this time. There is a difference between the Housing recommended funding for CDBG at S4.58 billion and the Senate recommendation $4.610, which will be worked out in a conference committee once the House and Senate approve their particular appropriation bills. Until there is further information on FY 2003 CDBG funding, Ms. Lufkin said she would use the CDBG entitlement funding amount that Evanston received in 2002 - $2,399.000. Program income for 2003 is estimated to be $200,000 and proposed reallocations of unused CDBG funds from completed prior years' projects is S131,910. These three amounts total S2,730,910, which the City may allocate toward FY 2003/04 CDBG programs/projects. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15.2002 Page Two Ms. Lufkin added that CDBG regulations mandate that no more than 20% of CDBG funding may be allocated toward Administrative/Planning projects. The cap for Administration Planning category is S519,800. The applications received in this category total $564,010 making it necessary to reduce this category by S44,210. The 15% Public Services cap amounts to S400,550. Applications received in this category total S940,095 making it necessary to reduce this category by $539,545. III. 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM AGENCY APPLICATION REVIEW A4 Evanston Ecumenical Action CounclVEEAC Hospitality Center Mentoring Program Susan Murphy, program coordinator told the Committee that the Hospitality Center is open from 7 a.m. to I 1 am. every morning. Current and former clients from Hilda's Place come to this center. There is a job counselor that works with the people three days a week, and space is provided for the caseworkers from Hilda's Place to meet with the clients. Ms. Murphy said this was a program where people in the community volunteer to be matched with one of EEAC's clients. The volunteer is there to advise the client and hopefully they form a friendship that last many years. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how the money Ms. Murphy was asking for would be put in place for this mentoring program. She replied that part of the money would be spent on the staffing of the program, part would be for training sessions for the volunteers and part would be for special events so the volunteers and clients could meet and get to know each other. Kenneth Rodgers asked how many people would be matched with the volunteers in this program. Ms. Murphy replied that so far there have been 12 matches and she was hoping that number would grow to 25. In response to a question from Aid. Rainey, Ms. Murphy said that of these 12 matches, there are 8 active relationships and 5 of those are living on their own. In EEAC's application, qualifications arc mentioned regarding who will be served if they come from outside of Evanston, Aid Bernstein asked what criteria is used to determine who will be served. Ms. Murphy replied that all her clients are residents of Hilda's place in Evanston. Most of the people Hilda's Place serves are from Evanston, but there are some that are not. EEAC's mentoring program mostly serves the people from Hilda's place. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Murphy to describe the goal of the Mentoring Program. Ms. Murphy said it was to provide a support system, to provide someone who is successful in supporting themselves in our community to provide support to someone who is striving to be in that position. a� Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15.2002 Page Three Alt Metropolitan Family Services/Elder Abuse Prevention Counseling Karen Wertymer, program supervisor introduced Sandra Stumme, executive director. Ms. Wertymer said that the application is for funding for the counseling services provided to a subset of their senior counseling clients. Counseling services for seniors and a subset of that is seniors that are referred for counseling as a result of being clients in the Elder Abuse Program. She said they investigate reports of elder abuse on a regular basis, and refer seniors that would benefit from counseling to the counseling program. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for clarification of the breadth of service provided in this program. Ms. Wertymer said that when staff works with a senior that has been abused or exploited in some way, their life is usually quite disrupted. Some of them don't realize that they have been abused, neglected, or exploited, they have accepted it as part of their normal every day life, or they haven't had the courage to do anything about a situation that they know isn't right because it involves someone very familiar to them. There is a lot of upset physiologically and emotionally, sometimes there is changes in the arrangements in their care and adjustment is not always as easy for seniors as it might be for someone younger. The counseling we do with them helps them make the changes that they need to make in terms of their perspective on their Iife acceptance. Aid. Bernstein asked how Ms. Wertymer finds out about persons being abused. Ms. Wertymer said that sometimes it's from a family member or friend, police, sometimes -different agencies, anyone that has contact with senior citizens. A25 Over the Rainbow AssociationsJHiJI Arboretum Apartments Eric Huffman, executive director introduced Leo Kirwin, the director of operations of Over the Rainbow Association (OTR). Mr. Huffman thanked the Housing and Community Development Act Committee for their help over the past years. He pointed out that OTR has always tried to leverage the money the Committee has given to them. Mr. Huffman said there are many people that function at a normal intellectual level and live in nursing homes. He estimates that out of 100,000 people in Illinois that live in nursing homes 4,000 to 6,000 people function at a normal intelligence level. After doing a cost benefit analysis comparing living at Hill Arboretum to living in a nursing home. At Hill Arboretum there is independence, is much less constrictive, people are in charge of their own lives, they rooms are an average of 750 sq. ft., they have accessible barrier -Gee bathrooms and kitchens, while in a nursing home they would be sharing a room with one or two more people. Hill Arboretum did an analysis based on HUD assistance payments, (OTR gets no state money, only federal) the cost for one person to live at Hill Arboretum Apartments is $12,500 per year. The state also gives people social security for their personal care tenants - somewhere between $20,000 and S25,000 is what it costs to support someone at Hill Arboretum. The cost for someone to live in a nursing home is somewhere between $70,000 and S100,000. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15. 2002 Passe Four Leo Kinvin said that over the last three months alone, OTR has spent over $8,000 just to plug leaks in the room, this does not include fixing the damage the leaks have caused on the inside. He said that OTR has solicited bids to get the roof replaced. Evanston roofing companies were the first ones to be contacted. Of all the roofing companies contacted only five said they would give OTR an estimate. Of the five only three came back with estimates, which are before the Committee now. Mr. Huffman said the OTR has always used minority contractors and local businesses and the first people OTR contacted were Evanston contractors. He explained that the old roof would have to be torn off and a new roof put on. It is not possible to fix the old roof. Aid. Kent asked if OTR was seeking other funding for the new roof. Mr. Huffman replied that they were not that always before funds they got from CD were leveraged with other money. 'This is a capital expense and OTR does not have money in their replacement reserve for this. Capital grants are very hard to get, after contacting HUD they were told to seek CDBG funds. David Schoenfeld asked if this project could be phased. Mr. Huffman said that according to the contractors he was in touch with the answer is no. Aid. lean -Baptiste said he thought it a good idea for Mr. Huffman to try to get some funding other places in addition to applying to the Committee. Aid. Rainey mentioned that reading OTR's application she thought how OTR supports themselves was really impressive. OTR gets tremendous support from all sources .and the income -level of their residents is approximately 55,000 per year. Aid. Kent said that there were approximately 15 or so people on the board who do not live in Evanston and asked if there was a response from them indicating that they need to create something to help with the cash flow. Mr. Huffman replied that he works very hard to get the board to produce like they do in terms of donations and bringing prospective supporters to the association. Leo Kirwin added that those members on the board that are not living in Evanston were among their highest producers either by volunteering or donations. Aid. Kent asked Mr. Huffman if the roofers had looked at other operations as far as putting down a membrane instead of a new roof. Mr. Huffman replied that the current membrane is in such bad shape it would be unwise to do that. Kenneth Rodgers asked if the apartments had been cited for violations. Mr. Huffman said that they had not. Mr. Kinvin said that as of now the biggest problem in seven apartments had been with mold. The mold was taken care of as quickly as possible. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15. 2002 Pace Five Aid. Rainey asked if Mr. Huffman would consider a mix of a loan and a grant. Mr. Huffman that that was a possibility. Al Connections for the Homeless/Entry Point Will Sundblad, executive director of Connections for the Homeless introduced Kevin Foss, executive director of Entry Point. Mr. Foss said that Entry Point provides outreach services to those living on the street 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Entry Point builds relationships with men, women and children who fall through the cracks of the social service system. They have a 1-800 number, staff goes out to meet these people in parks, soup kitchen, public libraries, etc. Entry Point tries to cant their trust by offering small services such as a sack lunch or CTA fare up to medical care or housing, what every their needs may be. The other agencies in Evanston are worked with very closely. Their program goals (for which they are on track this year) are to increase access to resources for 180 individuals, to obtain shelter or housing for 90 individuals, and to assist 27 individuals to obtain permanent housing. Aid. Rainey asked how many people Entry Point was currently seeing and if that number is changing. Mr. Foss answered that because of the CD Committee's help in the past Entry Point was able to almost double the amount of people they were seeing from about 15 clients a month to between 25 - 30 people a month. Aid. Rainey asked about the number of homeless people in general in Evanston. Mr. Foss said that Entry Point staff' does try to make connections with everyone who is out there, but because Entry Point is a voluntary service people do need to want to take part in the program. A lot of the people that Entry Point is having difficulty having relations with suffer from either an untreated mental illness or currently in the throws of an addiction and are not ready to talk to anyone about recovery at this point. Staff does make contact with them as often as possible. Kenneth Rodgers asked if Mr. Foss was seeing an increase in the numbers of youth that are homeless. Mr. Foss replied that they are seeing an increase in the number of families that are homeless and that would include young people. He added that the families they are seeing do not come from the street outreach but from are referrals from the 1-800 number, other agencies in town, the City, hospitals, or police. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Foss what the reasons were for people being homeless. Mr. said that there were many reasons, some people still have a job, but don't make enough to afford to continue living where they were living and had to move out, some have just lost their job through the economy, there is a woman whose child was seriously ill and could not rind anyone to take care of the child, she had to make the decision to take care of the child and lost her job. Aid. Rainey asked how many homeless families there were in Evanston. Mr. Foss said he didn't have those number before him but in the Prevention Program that they had seen as many people this year by July and August as they had seen all year in 2001. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15, 2002 Paae Six Mr. Foss said their number if 1-800-439-6691. If anyone would like to volunteer the number to call is 1-475-7070 and ask for Jan Klingberg. A6 Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads CouneillContemporaryAwareness Kim Williams, marketing team manager introduced Kimberly Kinickey, marketing representative for the Evanston community; she also oversees the Double Dutch Program as well. Ms. Williams said that the public could access the Girl Scouts by calling 1-847-573-0500 for volunteer opportunities and also to invite girls to grow strong with the Girl Scouts. Ms. Williams said that the service the Girl Scouts want to provide in Evanston is the Contemporary Awareness program. This is a program designed to empower growth in young women ages 5 - 17. Programs are reality based and age appropriate developed to address the issues girls and young women face. Issues such as healthy relationships, assertive communication, conflict resolution, sports and fitness, media influencing, eating disorders, and anger management. Ms. Williams said that this year they were offering a new program called "Sensibilities". This program is designed to give girls the skills they need for personal money management like budgeting and spending habits. Though this program they will provide individual activities designed to address money matters. A great benefit from this program is the emphasis on practical mathematical skills with the principal of making girls to make wise choices in all facets of life. Sensibilities along with other Girl Scout activities will be offered throughout the Evanston School district, community centers, and churches. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how much contact do you have with an individual, is it one time, is there a follow-through over a period of time and how do you evaluate success. Ms. Kinickey said that this program is just one way for girls to participate in the Girl Scout program. She said that the Girl Scouts goal is not to have girls in the Contemporary Awareness program and once that program is done not to have future contact with them. Girl Scout leaders would like to build a relationship with the girls to have the girls participate in whatever capacity they want whether it is a troop or attendance at some of the Girl Scouts larger events. Ms. Kinickey said that with the Contemporary Awareness program Girl Scout Leaders could come to the schools for one day, four weeks, 8 weeks, or 12 weeks. Generally, during that time period the Leader comes in once a week. She said that the best measurement of success is the girls, there is pre -testing and post -testing. Ms. Williams added that progress is also tested based upon the feedback from the parents. Aid. Kent said that he sees the usual things in the Girl Scouts proposals. What he does not see is a push to encourage girls in math and science. He said that he does not see a presence of the Girl Scouts in the schools. Ms. Kinickey replied that in the new Sensibilities curriculum the Girl Scouts is incorporating is bringing lap top computers teaching basic computing skills as Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15, 2002 Page Seven well as spreadsheets and budget graphs and simple calculations. They are shown how the basic math they are taught in the classroom is going to apply to their daily life. David Schoenfeld asked if the Girl Scouts had done anything to expose the girls to different careers. Ms. Williams said that depending on the particular leader of the troop in the community different individuals with various professional backgrounds are invited to speak to the girls and speak about a particular career. She said that she often get inquiries from the health and photography industry. Ms. Williams said she passes that on to the leaders so that girls can be exposed to a variety of professional options. Ms. Kinickey said that the Girl Scouts do have a program going on right now where the Loyola School of Nursing students are working with some of the older girls to give them first aid and CPR training. Aid. Bernstein asked if the Girl Scouts have any interaction with Evanston primary schools. Ms. Kinickey said that organized recruiters arc at all but one school at this time, and we are working on that school at this time. The recruiters are the most helpful to us in determining which age groups or population are at most risk and in need of the Girl Scout program. A14 Oliver & Julie Gray/Treasure Chest Summer Camp Oliver Gray introduced his wife Julie Gray and said that their Treasure Chest program was for 20 children 8 - 12 years of age. Ms. Gray said their phone number if 847475-0763 and said their application was for a Treasure Chest Camp. The goal of the camp would be to discover the treasures located within each child. This will be accomplished by leading the children on a treasure hunt to discover their potential. Included in this treasure hunt would be academic enrichment, spiritual awareness, introduction to performing and visual arts, education about financial security and economic prosperity. Ms. Gray said this would be accomplished by soliciting the assistance of professionals such as teachers and persons from the financial arena. Ms. Gray said this camp differs from other summer camps because it is more affordable - S200 per child for the 10 week session. More diverse program will be offered. She added that the program would be spiritually based, and some components would be professionally facilitated. Aid. Kent said he understood that the program would be housed at the Heramingway United Methodist Church. Ms. Gray said that was correct, however the children would be from all over Evanston. Aid. Rainey asked what role spiritually will play in the Treasure Chest Summer Camp program. Ms. Gray said they would be teaching the children biblical principles. W Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15. 2002 Pace Eieht Mr. Rodgers asked Aid. Rainey if the Committee is allowed to fund spiritually based programs. Sally Lufkin said that because of the separation of church and state federal funds cannot be used if the program has a particular religious practice emphasis. Kenneth Rodgers asked if any other funding had been looked into. Ms. Gray said that they were looking into other types of funding. A28 School for Little Children/Windows Barbara Davis, executive director of the School for Little Children introduced Dolores Malone, site director at the Infant Toddler Center, and Tom Fmyne part of the development team. Ms. Davis said that the telephone number for the school is 847-864-3889. The School for Little Children opened in the basement of the First Church of God in 2000. The whole basement was remodeled and the plan is to serve 40 children (infants to throe years old). One of the improvements the school would like to make is to add windows to the basement facility. There are four classrooms and a fellowship hall that the school uses. Two of the classrooms have windows and the fellowship hall and two classrooms do not. Dolores Malone explained that there are some days when the children cannot go outside. There has been a lot of construction on Simpson and Ashland and when the bulldozers and truck go up and down the street you can feel the building shake and the toddlers can lookout side to see these vehicles. Of course, in the rooms where there are no windows, the toddles are unable to look outside to see what is taking place. Tom Frayne said that the project would cost $40,000 and that the School for Little Children had contributed $20,000 and they were asking $20,000 from the Housing and Community Development Act Committee. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Malone for an explanation of the relationship of the School. for Little Children to the First Church of God. Ms. Malone said that they do not pay rent, that the Church had donated the space to the school. In order to meet the construction cost, the School took out a loan with the Illinois Facilities fund for $139,000. Aid. Bernstein said he was concerned that the School had improved someone else's property without a lease or something binding. What if the Church decides to create their own daycare center and asks the School to move? Ms. Malone replied that the School has had a relationship with another church for over 60 years and it never crossed their minds that they needed something more. He asked if the Church uses the remodeled property for Sunday school, etc. Ms. Malone said that the church did use it for Sunday school and on weekends. Aid. Bernstein and Aid. Rainey expressed concern regarding remodeling a property where there was no lease. Sally Lufkin said that what is done on a public facility's grant is there is a minimum of seven year repayment period if there is a change of use. Aid. Bernstein asked Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15. 2002 Paee Nine Ms. Malone to try to get some type of guarantee from the First Church of God that if they ask the School to move, the Church will repay the Committee. A20 Youth Job Center of Evanston/Job Readiness, Placement, Fonoov-UP James Sibley, executive director introduced the members of the Youth Job Center (YJC) that accompanied him to the meeting. He thanked the Committee for their many years of funding. In 1983, the Committee was their only source of funding. This year the amount they are asking for represents 15% of their total budget. Mr. Sibley said that YJC has evolved from being a job placement agency to being more of a career development agency. He gave a summary of the various programs that YJC has initiated since 1983. Kenneth Rodgers asked if YJC has thought about doing Job Shadowing. Mr. Sibley said that is under consideration right now. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked how the YJC is marketing their services. Mr. Sibley said that a lot is word of mouth, YJC has a presence in Evanston Township High School (ETHS) and there are referrals from other agencies. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if YJC has a relationship with ETHS Job Training Program. Mr. Sibley said that they have an office in the community center that is a collaboration of all the community support networks in the high school. They also work with the counseling office, and the career and counseling center, and the evening academy. When the ETHS Job Training Program has exhausted all their resources, they will make a referral to YJC. In reply to Aid. Jean-Baptiste's concern, Judy Pfeiffer stated that the Youth Job Center has helped young people get hired at Steak and Shake, Century Theater and New Comer Bakery. She added that as soon as she finds out a new business is opening she sends people to apply for those jobs. Aid. Rainey said that one of the things this committee receives are proposals arguing that there is no access for youth to technology, computers, job training, any vocational training. Last night the City Council voted unanimously to continue the program of giving TIF dollars from the Southwest TIF to ETHS and to District 65. At the October 14, 2002 City Council meeting, the City Council voted that an extra S600,000 be given to ETHS and District 65. The money can only be used during the life of the TIF that way if the School District promises to use it for job training, computer training, vocational training, and the kinds of things that YJC is involved. Ald. Rainey stated that she has a letter from ETHS and District 65 stating that they are offering cooperative work training programs, office information support systems, graphic communications, manufacturing technology, dmfsing, CAD technology, electronic technology, Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15, 2002 Page Teri adult training, computer training. District 65 says that they provide for basic computer skills, career awareness, fine arts training. industrial education, home and consumer education. She asked why are there so many requests for training programs of all kinds, when it appears that ETHS and District 65 are well equipped to provide those program. Mr. Sibley said that a large percentage of the audience they serve are disadvantaged or situationally challenged. A large number of YJC's clients have not finished high school, YJC tries to get them basic skills. Aid. Rainey asked how many youth 14 - 18 are served by YJC. Mr. Sibley said he did not have those figures with him. He said he would get those figures and give them to the Committee. A1d. Kent said he had a concern that more and more teenagers are not staying in school, and are dropping out to attend night school. He asked Mr. Sibley if he saw more teenagers dropping out of school because they need to provide extra financial support to the family. Mr. Sibley said that a majority of students that transfer from day school to night school are there because of lack of credits, but after a year or so the parents are asking them to go to work since they are not going to school in the day. Alb A Work of Faith Min istri esINorthshore Community Kenneth Westbrooks, founder and president said this program came from a need of low and moderate -income families needing to improve job skills from basic resume preparation to how to conduct a proper interview. This grew to a program where mock interviews are conducted, how to properly and legibly complete an employment application, into computer skill development and are now trying to help with job placement He said he was looking to expand this program into the Evanston community with particular emphasis on former substance abusers, and undereducated adults that are reentering the job market. Kenneth Rodgers asked how many people this program is serving. Mr. Westbrooks said that there is anywhere from 15 to 25 people being helped. At this time, his program is serving a larger number of Rodgers Park residents than Evanston residents. Aid. Rainey Mr. Westbrooks to describe the typical Evanston client. Mr. Westbrooks said that the typical client is someone who is working three retail or fast food jobs and realizes they cannot make enough money to live on. She said that earlier Mr. Westbrooks had mentioned that people who utilize his program are hard to deal with becausc they don't keep appointments, don't take it seriously. She asked if 4ir. Westbrooks allows people who do not arrive on time or do not follow the rules to be in the program. Mr. Westbrooks replied that people are not allowed to come and go as they please, but they do not want to turn people away because many times these people disappear. Aid. Kent asked if Northshore Community Services accepts ex -offenders. Mr. Westbrooks said that they did. Aid. Kent asked if a client is helped until they find employment. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15, 2002 Page Eleven Mr. Westbrooks said that is the way it has been, but there are too many clients now to continue doing that. A28 A Work of Faith Ministries/Faith Community Childcare Mr. Westbrooks told the Committee that the Faith Community Childcare would provide before and after school programming and home away from home care for toddlers and infants. Currently at the 7628 location, there are children who come in after school and we provide homework assistance and field trips. Mr. Westbrooks added that this is 90% an academically support program. Ken Rodgers asked if someone has gone through the training to open a day care. Mr. Westbrooks said they have an executive director who has day care school experience. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Westbrooks to transmit the questions he was not able to answer to Ms. Rhodes and ask her to respond to them and send it to Sally Luflcin. A17 Strive Chicago Employment ServlcelStrive North Steve Redfield, executive director of Strive Chicago Employment Service, said his agency provides employment readiness training and job placement and follow-up services for people 18 and over. Their phone number is 773465-5900. Strive is an acmnyrn for support and training result in valuable employees. He said the model started in New York City in 1985 and the Chicago Employment Service, Inc., opened in 1990 using that model and has been serving Evanston residents since 1999 when they opened on Howard street. The 540,000 requested is to pay a portion of the costs to graduate 25 Evanston residents from their program. . Mr. Redfield said that they see 15 to 20 Evanston residents a year and 95% of them are from 2, 5, and 8 wards. Overall their clients arc unemployed over six months and are 18 years old and older, 45% lack a high school diploma, 40% have a criminal background, 40% are either receiving or applying for welfare benefits and half read below the eighth grade level, over half are women. Of the Evanston population served half arc between the ages of25 and 40, 45%are older than 40 with 5% in the 18 - 24 age group. Racial breakdown is as follows: 88% - African American, 7% - Hispanic, and 5% Caucasian. He explained that Strive provides four basic services. 140 hour intensive job readiness program, goes beyond the mechanics of finding work to a life changing transformation, that is followed by a job placement assistance, we have full time staff looking for job leads that leads to a 75% -to 80% placement rate. 3. Two years of follow-up. There is a set of career advancement activities, starting with career planning but also there is a computer lab on site to work on basic skills. They have lost $46,000 through state cut backs. The CDBG request would make up 12% of the Howard Street Strive budget. Twenty per cent of Strive graduates will be from Evanston. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15. 2002 Paee Twelve Aid. Rainey asked what money does Strive get that is totally devoted to Chicago students or clients. Mr. Redfield said that people are not singled out by City only by eligibility. Aid. Rainey asked if Mr. Redfield gets CDBG money from Chicago. He replied that he did not, Strive tried, but their constraints are so restrictive the money had to be sent back. Chicago requires that men participating in this program be registered with the selective service. Ald. Rainey asked Mr. Redfield to send the Committee a copy of Chicago's policy concerning its CDBG program. Aid. Kent asked if there is anything in the program that would allow some of these people back into school while they are working. Mr. Redfield said that what Strive found when they started this program in 1994 is that people are unlikely to go back to school the first year they are working, they begin to be ready to think about education the second year they are working. That is why Strive has a computer lab, so that they can come in at any time. Mr. Redfield said that 22 people got their GED last year with Strive's help. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if Strive cooperated with any other agencies in Evanston. Mr. Redfield said that 1ETC (One Stop) comes to Strive's office every month and people are registered with them, Strive is also on the Evanston service provider interagency network so clients can be cross referenced. AS Evaoatont orthshore YWCAIYWCA Domestic Violence Program Christie Dailey, executive director of the YWCA Northshore said tonight she was representing the YWCA's Domestic Violence Program. Their 24 hour hotline is 1-877-718- 1868. She thanked the Committee for their past funding, and mentioned how important that funding is to the program. This funding supports the YWCA's counseling/case management services that are provided to residential and walk-in clients. Counseling and case management services are offered to children and adults. Other services provided include the outreach office in the Skokie District 2 Courthouse, which helps women with legal advocacy and information about the court system, violence prevention program in elementary schools, and transitional "scattered site" housing for persons leaving the shelter. Police refer 42% of the Domestic Violence Program's clients, 22% are referred by hospitals, and family members or friends refer the remainder. Ms. Dailey gave the Committee an example of a client and this client used the services of the YWCA Domestic Violence Program. Ms. Dailey said that because of the economy, one walk-in counselor had to be eliminated and instead of five apartments, they now have four in the Transitional Housing program. She explained that the 537,000 requested funding partially pays the salary of a program director and portion of the woman's counselor. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15, 2002 Paee Thirteen AI I McGaw YMCAIFoster Reading Center Tony Lee, executive director of the McGaw YMCA in Evanston said that the YMCA was requesting $20,000 for the Foster Reading Center. He said that to his knowledge the Foster Reading Center has never requested CDBG funds. The Foster Reading Center was founded in 1985 by a group of community volunteers to improve reading and literacy skills for children in the fifth ward. The Center is located in the Family Focus building. After school help is provided for reading and homework for children in kindergarten to fifth grade. This program is largely staffed by volunteers, 25 to 30 children a day are served, with 75 unduplicated children being served during the course of the year. The program is free of charge for the participants. In February, 2001 the Foster Reading Center directors initiated and received support from the McGaw YMCA board of directors for a merger making the Center a program/department of the McGaw YMCA. This has allowed the children of the Center to take advantage of what the YMCA has to offer such as swimming, sports programming, camping, etc. The Center has always depended on contributions to support its work, but the current economic climate is such that is very difficult to raise funds. This year the YMCA ended the year with a rather significant deficit which has made it necessary to come before the Committee for their support. The budget for the Foster Reading Center is approximately 553,000. This money goes to support an onsite supervisor, pay the rent, incidental program and office expenses. The cost per child per year is approximately $700. The 520,000 the Center is requesting from the Committee will help the Center with $266 per child per year. In 2001, the Center for Urban School Policy at Northwestern University evaluated tutorial program in the community including those at the YMCA. Following is what they concluded: "The McGaw YMCA program has had the most success with the one on one tutoring out of all the programs studied. The committed tutors they have found seem to have forged strong relationships with the students. Parents and teachers approval of the program is very high. The program is unique in that it provides one on one tutoring and drop -in homework help so it is a valuable resource for students who have nowhere to go." In the spring of 2002 the McGaw YMCA conducted a survey of the participants in the Foster Reading Center, following arc the results: 52% of those responded say they like tutoring and have a great relationship with their tutors. 73% agree that homework is a lot easier after participating at the Foster Reading Center. 70% they are doing better in school and 72% report that they feel better about themselves. Mr. Lee felt that the 72% that feel better about themselves is a very significant in increase in self-esteem and self-confidence. He said that most youngsters fail in school because of a lack of self-esteem or self-confidence. Aid. Rainey asked how frequently the children are transported to the YMCA. Mr. Lee replied that they go to the YMCA about once or twice a month, because the emphasis at the Center in on learning. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 15.2002 Pa¢e Fourteen Aid. Kent asked if Mr. Lee knew how many of those children at the Center were being promoted to the next grade. Sarah Flax, development director said that parents have been asked to sign waivers allowing the Center to get access to the children's records. District 65 has agreed to give those records to the Center. The site supervisor is in contact with the schools and teachers to find out the specific objectives the teacher has for each child. The Center has asked for and will attempt to get the report cards again this year. Aid. Kent said that he noticed that the Center focuses on children in K-5`s grade and asked if the Center had given any thought to include the population of the students that attend Haven. Ms. Flax said that they did have a lot of Haven children, not at the Foster Learning Center but they have an after school drop in program for middle school called Club Mid at the Grove Street building. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for a racial breakdown of the children attending the Grove Street program. Ms. Flax replied that there were 85% - 90% African American, them is a growing Hispanic group, and there are also children from totally different backgrounds. A10 Legal Assistance Fouttdation/Esanston Legal Services William Kolen, supervisory attorney of the Evanston office located at 828 Davis Street on the second floor, our telephone number is 847475-3703. He said that they provide free civil legal services to low income and elderly residents and the rest of Cook County. Their services include family law, focusing on victims of violence, landlord tenant, evictions, and mortgage foreclosure. These services are provided from their offices with the help of staff attorneys as well as with the help of volunteers. Federal funding for the next year is going to be significantly reduced as a result of the 2000 census. Ald. Rainey asked how the census has impacted the funding. Mr. Kolen said that the funding is based on the number of poor people nationally. While the number of poor people in Cook County increased, because the federal amount hasn't grown, it looks across the country is actually a smaller percentage of the poor people so we get a smaller percentage of the pot. For the whole Agency's budget it will be about a S350,000 cut. IV. COMMUNICATIONS Aid. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 1 l :26 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Mary E. Baide, Planning Division DR 1N - 10, i r,� - - A k f K, 0, N,' Er - a - HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, October 22, 2002 7:00 P.M. - City Council Chambers Evanston Ci%ric Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Aid. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: None CHAIR: Aid. Rainey STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske OTHERS PRESENT: Wendy Smith, Suzanne Calder, John T. Kellser, Rev. Lisa Telomen, Dino Robinson, Kathy Shearer, John Banner Wilfiams, Sandi Johnson, Phyllis Mitten, Wm. Parks, J. Kunz, Jessica Price, Robert Roy, M. Friedi, John Henry Turner, Kevin Limbeck, Terrance Wimberly, Ralph Segall, Emmanuel Jackson, Ann Jennett, Andrea Lee, Latisha Guillard, John B. Kennedy, Tera M. Krigbaum, Andie Watson, Eric Sproul, Betsy Uzzele, 1. CALL TO ORDER A1d. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.nL Aid. Rainey welcomed the audience and explained that each applicant will be called according to the agenda and have 15 minutes to present their application and receive questions from the Committee. 1I. 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM AGENCY APPLICATION REVIEW A24 Infant Welfare SocietylBuby Toddler Nursery Wendy Smith, development consultant for the Infant Welfare Society of Evanston, gave their phone number 847491-9650. Ms. Smith said that the Infant Welfare Society of Evanston has existed since 1913. Ms. Smith said the CDBG request was to construct soundproof walls between classrooms in the west wing of Baby Toddler Nursery. She explained that the walls would reduce noise and visual stimulation in three classrooms where approximately 50 toddlers are in attendance. The funding request represents 80% of the estimated cost of the construction and the Infant Welfare Society (IWS) will contribute the remaining 20% of the cost. Last year IWS requested S79,688 from CD funds with the intention of completing both wings of the building. IWS received $50,000 in funding. However, the competitive bids came in significantly Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Paee Two higher than the original bid on which they had based their request. In the end the total cost of the construction of the walls in one wing of the building was S 100,247. Of this, S50,000 was provided by CDBG and IWS continues to work on raising the balance of the funds needed for this proejct. The new soundproof walls have made a significant difference in the lives of the children attending Baby Toddler Nursery. It is much quieter throughout the day and the visual stimulation from the neighboring classrooms has been eliminated. Teachers report much less noise, less irritability, general better behavior and participation in learning activities in children enrolled in those classrooms. High -risk children are much likelier to develop good social skills in quieter, less chaotic and distracting environments. The noise and visual stimulation that currently exist in the west wing of the building where construction has not yet taken place, clearly has an negative impact on some of the children's behavior. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Smith to give the Committee an idea of what was included in the S100,000 spent on walls. She replied that there are now three classrooms with halls, a wider hallway that is now up to ADA standards, and plumbing that had to be brought into the construction for a bathroom. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Smith to provide a budget for the new proposal. Ken Rodgers said he was concerned that the estimate was becoming twice what IWS thought it to be, it was either a poor estimate or not a clear picture of what the project actually entailed. In the IWS request, it states that in the west wing is a large open space that contains three classrooms divided by low walls of wooden panels and multi colored milk crates. Ald. Kent asked why it would take $4,066 to dismantle these wails. He also asked for more information concerning the suspended ceiling. He added that $7,500 for painting and decorating newly constructed walls seemed quite steep, he thought that there must be some volunteers that could help with some of these projects. Kathy Shearer, executive director of the Infant Welfare Society of Evanston said that when they started the wall project, they worked with an architect and builder that has a long history of working with IWS and other agencies in Evanston. Ms. Shearer explained that the whole idea was soundproofing, but when the project got started there were DCFS regulations that were not originally anticipated; the original ceiling panels were not sound proof, the floor had to be leveled, the hall wall had to be moved to make the area ADA accessible. While the building was torn up, a second furnace was installed. These are funds that the agency is replacing to complete the project, but the project is exactly what IWS wants it to be, it is soundproo& it meets all code, DCFS regulations and IWS has significantly renovated the whole east wing. She explained that the cost estimates that are in their current proposal have been done by the same Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Page Three architect and the same builder that did the west wing. The demolition includes taking out old flooring as well as the ceiling panels and dividers. Ald. Rainey explained that an application for CDBG funds must contain everything that will be done with those funds. An applicant cannot apply for CDBG funds requesting to use the money for one thing and then after receiving those funds use the money for things not included in their proposal. Aid. Bernstein asked how the costs contained in the IWS application were obtained. Ms. Shearer said it was from the architect and builder used in the east wing renovation. She understood that she would have to bid this project out to at least three other builders. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked Ms. Shearer to explain the relationship of the security and emergency issue to room dividers. Ms. Shearer said that because of the reconfiguration of the classrooms, the emergency signs and lighting would have to be replaced and upgraded. A23 Hemenway UM ChurchIGym Stage Lighting do Sound Renovation Reverend Lisa Telomen, senior pastor of Hemenway United Methodist Church, said that for the past 20 years they have supported critical programs that reach out to the low income and marginalized of the community, e.g. Soup at Six Soup Kitchen, and the FACE Emergency Food Pantry. She said that the Church would like to develop recreation outreach, an arts outreach, and other support and entertainment events that would help to foster a better appreciation and understanding of Evanston's diverse population. She said the Church has raised 53,500 toward the gym lighting and received an additional grant from the Evanston Community Foundation to start upgrading the whole circuit panel. Rev. Telomen said the Church is asking for funding to complete a gym lighting upgrade already begun, and for funding to renovate stage lighting and sound boards, and to install sound absorbing panels in the gym. Aid. Kent asked how Hemenway Church came up with 57,000 for soundproofing. Rev. Telomen said that they have been in contact with Windy City that does this kind of soundproofing and have given them this estimate. Ald. Kent asked for further information on the soundproofing. Ald. Rainey said she was concerned that CDBG funds would be used for improvements inherent to the Church building. Rev. Telomen said that 7 out of 10 events are community events and run by people outside the Church. A16 - Shorefront NFP/Sherefront Magazine Education Program Dino Robinson (founder of Shorefront) introduced himself and said that Shorefront could be reached at 847-475-5321. He explained that Shorefront is a not -for -profit organization, and Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Page Four that he started this project in 1995. His goal was to research, archive and share information of the African American community's contributions to Evanston's history. Even though the African American history in Evanston and the Northshore area goes back 150 years, when he went to the Evanston Library and Historical Society to do some preliminary research, he found very little information. Since that time, Mr. Robinson has written a book entitled A Place We Can Call Our Home. He also has written Through the Eves of Us that includes an oral history CD as well as a comprehensive time line covering 1940 -1998 of significant events that happened in Evanston, but deals with the African American community. As a result of that project Mr. Robinson said he has accumulated 90 hours of audiotape, 1 hour of videotape and has compiled an archive of 300 photographs - hard copies as well as digital, and census data collected from the Newbery Library. Aid. Rainey said that she saw that Mr. Robinson did a lot of work for District 65, but she did not see where they paid him for his services and asked if District 65 paid him for his services. Mr. Robinson said that he has been paid an honomriwn, but there was nothing contractual. He said that District 65 did purchase his books and that he now has a fee schedule for his services. Aid. Rainey asked if Mr. Robinson had requested funds or financial support from Northwestern University. Mr. Robinson replied that he had not, but the board is now working on pursuing a lot of grants and different avenues and Northwestern University is one of the goals for the year 2003. Mr. Robinson said that the Shorefront Magazine was started as a community based magazine that welcomes people who are not involved in Shorefront immediately. Anyone is welcome to submit an article to Shorefront that showcases a person, place or event that represents the African American community in the Northshore area. David Schoenfeld complemented Mr. Robinson on his work. He asked if Mr. Robinson had tried to explore collaboration with the Historical Society in lieu of requesting fimds to do this as an independent project. Mr. Robinson said right now they were sharing information. Over the past year he has become the resource for information regarding the African American society. Right now, the Historical Society does not have the funds to undertake something this specific. A2 Council for Jewish Elderly/HEROS Audrey Canter, a licensed clinical social worker at Council for Jewish Elderly (CJE) and coordinator for the HEROS program introduced Richard Stillerman, past president and current member, and Phyllis Mitzcn, director of development, and a former member of the Commission on Aging. Ms. Canter gave the phone number 773-508-1000 for those wishing to contact the Council for Jewish Elderly. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29, 2002 Page Five Ms. Canter explained that CJE applied for a federal grant two years ago from SAMSA, the (Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration) of the federal government. CJE was aware that there is a large population of older people in east and west Rogers Park and in the northern suburbs who are very much underserved or at risk for premature hospitalization/institutionalization. This is mainly because of the fact that due to their emotional problems, whether its due to mental illness, their physical health problems or lack of a support system they do not seek out services. Most of the agencies that serve older adults are very passive in their case finding efforts waiting for the older person to present to them to the cse workers. CJE has worked for a long time with the Gate Keeper program in Spokane, Washington which was developed in 1979 to train gate keepers. CJE has chosen to call them Heros because of the negative connotation many of the older people worked with have related to the managed care arena. Heros are community business people who come into contact with older people throughout the course of the day. They are building managers, mail carriers, news paper carriers, bank people, pharmacists, fire department people, tax collectors, and meter readers. These arc people CJE would like to train to identify older adults who are at risk and then refer them for outreach and, where appropriate, services after there has been a thorough assessment. Although the original grant was written to target six geographical areas, CJE is going to concentrate their beginning efforts in Evanston because the members of their coalition have decided that Evanston is a good place to start. The coalition members consist of the Evanston Commission on Aging, the Mental Health Services department of the City of Evanston, Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Center, the Senior Crime Prevention program from the Evanston Police Department, the Evanston Trilogy Program, as well as the Mather Foundation. Nancy Flowers who is the ombudsman has been dealing with these clients for a very long time and given them a lot of examples, which is why they want to begin in Evanston. The majority of these people will be low to moderate -income people. This program seeks to keep people living in their homes and maintaining their independence as long as possible. They are requesting $25,000, which is approximately 15% of the total budget of this program. David Schoenfeld said the total budget for the project is S 162,000 and asked if that is focused entirely on Evanston. Ms. Canter said that part of the budget is what would be the total operating cost for all of the communities. He asked what proportion of CJE's total services would be directed at Evanston residents. Ms. Canter said that it would be approximately 60%. Aid. Kent asked how does CJE seek out people to be those Heros. Ms. Canter said that in her role as coordinator of the program, she would call various property managers, banks, postal offices and set up an appointment and go and talk to people there. Aid. Kent suggested that Ms. Canter get in touch with District 65 and District 202 and talk to the social workers there. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Page Six Aid. Kent asked if one of the Heros brought the name of a person who was involved in some predatory scheme, i f CJE would then send this person to another service that could deal with this problem. Ms. Canter said that CJE has been in existence for over 30 years and in Evanston they provide counseling and case management services in addition to transportation, home delivered meals, home health, a variety of in -home services, money management services. She added that she believes CJE has run into the predatory loan problem before and has helped the senior citizens involved. Aid. Rainey asked how many Evanston residents are in the (CJE's) Howard Street Daycare. Ms. Canter said she would get back to Aid. Rainey with this number. AIS Senior Action ServicelEXCEL Suzanne Calder, president of the board of Senior Action Service, Inc. (SASI) stated that SASI was founded about 28 years ago to help older workers to continue their employment if they so choose. Their mission today is to enable older individuals to maintain their highest level of independence. SASI is providing a model educational program for those entering the field of eldercare and re-education of current caregivers. The training program is three weeks, two weeks in a classroom setting and one week where the participants go out into the field and go to two different locations. They may go to an elder daycare, retirement facility, nursing home or even go into an individuals home. This is to provide them with two different experiences to know what it is really like to be an elder care worker. During this training program, during lunch speakers come in from different facilities to talk about what their facility is doing and give the trainees some background material and leave applications for them as well. There is also a retention specialist that works with the people for as long as they're needed. Of the 26 people that had graduated from the training program last year, 14 lived in Evanston; they were males and females and they were anywhere from their mid -twenties to seventy years old. Ms. Calder said that originally they thought this program would be self sufficient, however because we are training low-income workers, the program itself will never be self- sufficient. She said that SASI is trying to diversify their funding, and there are some grants that are already in for this coming year with many more pending. SASI has also approached long term care facilities to work on training or re-training their workers, so they get additional skills as well. A lot of corporations are beginning to realize that not only do people lose days of work because of childcare, they lose it because ofparents needing parent care. By working with corporate groups, SASI feels it can help them and they might be more inclined to help SAS[ in funding its training program. Ms. Calder said that from 1990 to 2000 the over 85 population in Evanston grew by 45% and by 2020 it is said that it will increase by 128%. People are living longer, becoming more fragile, but are still able to live at home if they get some help. She said that the EXCEL training program helps low-income people get the skills they need so they can enter a job field and at the same time enable the older citizens to stay in their homes for a longer period of time. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Pae?e Seven Aid. Rainey asked what the people cam that are placed in a position. Ms. Calder replied that it is approximately $10 an hour. The person employing the caregiver pays 5.85 an hour to SASI. Aid. Kent asked how people are recruited to the EXCEL program. Ms. Calder said that they give out flyers, contact the religious community, and some of the retirement facilities refer, people that come to them looking for employment, but don't have any training. So far this training has been fr e, but SASE is now asking for a S25 contribution to be used to purchase a manual and pay for a criminal background check that must be done for people entering this field. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Calder how many of those graduates are employed right now on a regular basis. Ms. Calder said she would get Ald. Rainey that information. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for a racial and ethnic breakdown of people served. Ms. Calder said that records are not kept of the places that are being served. She said that most of the caregivers are minorities and the bulk of them are over 50 years of age. Ms. Calder said that she would get back to the Committee with the ethnicity of the caregivers. Lisa James mentioned that if Ms. Calder kept up with the success rate of the individuals, the numbers of minorities, and the age of the people that go through the program, it might help EXCEL become self-sufficient. When EXCEL formulates corporate partnerships, the success rate could be used as a marketing tool. A7 John Barnet/First Base John Barrier Williams said that for the past eleven years this program has been run out of the First United Methodist Church. There has never been any funding for the program, as the Church supported the program itself. He explained that the objective of the program is to provide a place for homeless or people in transition to have use of a phone, receive their mail send or receive faxes, make copies of documents, etc. The program is open five days a week, Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Due to a renovation program to begin at First United Methodist Church, the church will no longer be able to host this program beginning in February of 2003. Reverend Hardist Lane has agreed to host this program at Fisher Memorial AME Zion Church. Mr. Barrier said that he has revised the budget and now is requesting 518,400. After the program is in operation for a year, he said he would have a better understanding of the funds needed to keep this program in operation. Aid. Rainey asked if the program had a paid staff and administrator while it was at First United Methodist. Mr. Bamer said that First United Methodist has a very large staff and the Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29, 2002 Paee Eight church staff absorbed the administrative costs, as part of their daily duties A3 Evanston Community DefenderlEvanston Commun4Defender Bob Roy, office director, explained that approximately 20% of his time is administration and the rest is direct service. He introduced Bill Parks, president of the Board of Directors, Eric Sproul, staff attorney, and Jessica Price, director of social work services. Mr. Roy explained that ECD is a community based not -for -profit, it operates as a public/private partnership in the area of youth law advocacy. They provide to low income youth and families legal and social work services in a variety of venues in the City of Evanston. Primarily the first cause for someone to come to the Community Defender is because of a matter involved in the juvenile court. The Community Defender's office provides legal services in the juvenile court, the adult criminal court and the second municipal district in Skokie. In addition, administrative advocacy in special education and discipline matters at the local school and high school systems is provided. Mr. Roy explained that the client base is basically under the age of 21; however they do provide services to some older people, very few, because the Community Defender has an intake eligibility relating to mental health services. He said that 100% of his clients are Evanston residents and low income; 80% are male, 201/6 are female. In the 2000 Census, it shows that approximately 10% of the family population is headed by a mother, grandmother, or aunt. In the Community Defender's client base, 66% of the clients live in a home supported only by one parent. Mr. Roy said that overall what the Community Defender's office tries to do is to provide legal and social work services so that if people do fall into a hole, (drug dependency, unemployment, school failure, any number of issues.) We try to give them the resources to get out of that hole and move on. Court involvement is a hole and can be a black hole, because what happens in a court involvement is that many times you create for yourself a permanent record that is going to keep you from participating in educational and employment programs throughout your life. At the end of the day, what the Defender's office tries to do is to respond to the legal need that the person has and try to make sure, by the application of social services, that they will not repeat the error of their ways and will become part of the contributory tax base of the community, rather than a tax drag because they are not working. Ken Rodgers asked if the Defender's office also has grade school children for clients. Mr. Roy said that they did, but predominantly their clients were middle school and high school. David Schoenfeld said that it was a pretty well documented trend toward trying younger offenders in serious crimes as adults, and asked if Mr. Roy saw that in the kinds of offenses he sees. Mr. Roy said that he does. Mr. Schoenfeld asked if that affects how ECD is able to address the social work aspect. Mr. Roy said it does because there is a series of offenses that if a drug sale or transaction occurs within so many feet of a school or public housing unit, park or protected area and the person is 15 years of age or older that becomes an automatic transfer case. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Pace Nine Mr. Schoenfeld asked if Mr. Roy had any luck using mediation. Mr. Roy said that of his goals is to try to become involved in these cases as early as possible so that cases can be diverted from the juvenile justice system or the court system. YOU received a grant from the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission to administer a mediation program. Mr. Roy said if Commission members would like to know more about their program they are welcome to visit the Defender's office or go with him to juvenile court. A13 North Shore Senior CenterlEvanston Skokie VaUey Senior Service Sandi Johnson, executive director of North Shore Senior Center (NSSC), said that each time they come before the Committee it is for smaller portion of their budget - this year it is below 3%. She said they arc located at 840 Dodge and the phone number is 847-864-3721. NSSC is asking for funding for a case manager's position. This case manager does outreach and spends all of her time working with low income elderly clients in Evanston. Ms. Johnson introduced Patrick Acurio and Arrnena Walsh, program supervisors at NSSC. Mr. Acurio said he is a program supervisor at the Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services. He supervises the case manager supported by Evanston CDBG. The case manager helps the elderly by visiting weekly the Levy Center, the Ebenezer Primm Towers, and the Fleetwood Jourdain nutrition site. This grant enables them to avoid using a wait list for clients. The case manager assesses clients needs and their eligibility as well as community based services enabling people that come to these sites to live as independently as possible for as long as passible in the community. Most of their clients come to the case manager at these sites requesting insurance assistance, property tax relief information, counseling and home based services. Over the course of a year the case manager will provide service to over 100 Evanston residents, the average age being 77.9 years. The majority of their clients are frail, elderly women in their middle to late seventies who live alone and have few, if any, family member nearby or other social supports. They live under difficult conditions in poverty and meet low income guidelines. Armenia Walsh gave a description of two of the clients that they have served. She said that they helped one 80-year-old woman return to her house. There is another 80-something year old woman who has a 50-year old daughter, a 30 something year old granddaughter, a 13-year old granddaughter and a number of great-grandchildren living in her home. Their client's house in the foreclosure process, so the case manager has been providing assistance and referrals by getting this client linked with legal assistance. She added that they are trying to obtain assistance in paying a S 1,500 water bill. They were able to assist the client in applying for public aid and to receive Medicaid funding. She had part B coverage only. She said that this originally was a referral from Metropolitan Family Services and reported as elder abuse. However this was a Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29.2002 Paee Ten case of the woman breaking her hip and not getting medical care, thinking it would heal on its own. Ms. Walsh said that these were the types of cases that the grant funds help NSSC help them to address. Aid. Kent said that things like this happen often where you have an elderly person who owns the house who then has a 50 year old child and that child's children living with them. He said that this is one of the hardest cases to solve. in his experience he as found that the children cannot fend for themselves, be it drug addictions or whatever else and if the parent did not own the house the children would be out on the street. He asked how people are helped in this instance. Ms. Johnson said that, sometimes the elderly person wants the children living there. If they want the adult child to live somewhere else in the community, other agencies are worked with to help them move. A19 Andrea Lee/Women Helping Women Andrea Lee, president and founder of Women Helping Women (WHW), she explained that this was a new nonprofit organization of all races. Their mission is to help women better themselves. WHW would like to open an after school drop -in -center for students in the V - e grades from 3 to 7 p.m. Their mission is to provide the children with hands on computer access, recreation and tutoring. The drop -in -center will eliminate another generation of children growing up to stand on the street corners of Evanston, IL. This drop -in -center will provide a safer environment, structure, recreation, tutoring, and refreshments. In addition, the center will be open one night a week for a support night, and one night for family fun night. Aid. Kent asked how many children Ms. Lee planned on serving. She said WHW would serve between 30 - 40 children. Kenneth Rodgers suggested Ms. Lee contact the schools, churches and other community organizations in the area to get some input. Horace Paynes mentioned that Ms. Lee put a line item in her budget for build out. He asked if she had researched some strategic partnership such as a church and get this organization going before stepping out on her own. Ms. Lee said that she was trying to get this project started on her own, but if that is not a possibility the thought of partnering with another organization has always been there. Aid. Rainey said that the district Ms. Lee lives in a park district called Ridgeville Park District. People living in this district pay an extra taxes that other Evanston citizens do not pay. She said that the Ridgeville Park District has been told many times by the Brummel Park Neighbors, by Southeast Evanston's Citizens Planning Committee that they need to provide some Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29, 2002 Palle Eleven kind indoor space in the south end of Evanston. Aid. Rainey suggested Ms. Lee contact Ridgeville. Aid. Bernstein asked if there would be a charge for these services. Ms. Lee said that it would be free except for dues of perhaps S5 a month. She added that she plans to hold fundraisers. Kenneth Rodgers suggested Ms. Lee contact him, as he is the youth director at his church. He said that a lot of those youth do community service in the neighborhood and thought that they could participate in Ms. Lee's program. Aid. Rainey suggested Ms. Lee submit a new copy of her budget. A27 YJC Enterprises/Ben do Jerry's Partnership Ralph Segall, president of YJC Enterprises introduced members of the board and employees of YJC that were in the audience. Emmanuel Jackson, member of the YJC Board explained that their goal is to provide job opportunities, Sob training and jobs for underprivileged and low-income youth through out Evanston. He said that the proposed Ben & Jetry's store would provide employment/training for 25 - 30 youths from 15 - 21 years old on a four - six month basis. Mr. Jackson said that the 5185,000 being asked for is startup capital that will enable them to train and pay employees, pay suppliers and have operating capital for the first year. David Schoenfeld asked what Ben & Jerry is contributing to this enterprise. Mr. Segall said that Ben & Jerry's is offering them reduced fianchise fees. They also provide a good deal of support and training. Aid. Kent said he expected to see more money in operating cost than in the skill -based training and on job experience. He asked for an explanation. It was explained that $108,000 is the wages that will be eamed by the clients performing their jobs. The $46,000 is the proportion of the labor that will be charged for the shift manager and the store manager. In response to a question from Aid. Kent, Tera Krigbaum said that initially the training program is designed to help them enter the job force and learn more about it. Once they have completed the job training, based on their goals and what they want to do, the Youth Job Center will place them in future positions. Kenneth Rodgers asked how long the training program is and what is the procedure. Ms. Krigbaum said that the training program is based on accomplishing skill sets, it's not a set amour' of time. Once they accomplish excellent customer service and learn cashiering they move on to leadership, graduating on to higher employment basics. The manager training program is very similarly designed, it is a little more rigid in its year term, but it is accomplishing skills sets and moving on to the next set. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29. 2002 Nee Twelve Aid. lean -Baptiste asked how other Ben and Jerry Partnershops are doing throughout the country. Mr. Segall said that most of the shops are doing well, some are doing better than others are. Aid. lean Baptiste asked, if the Committee was unable to fund them at the level requested, whether YJC would be open to a loan. Mr. Segall said that it is something that they would definitely want to talk about. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if YJC had thought about partnering with ETHS. Mr. Segall said that at this point, they have not approached the high school. Aid. Rainey said that at the last Council meeting, they allocated another $600,000 from the Southwest TIF to District 202 and District 65 to be used only for job training and job development. Aid. Bernstein asked what the payback is on the line of credit. Mr. Segall said that they have secured a line of credit from the Illinois Facilities Fund, which is a not -for -profit funder that is willing to finance capital buildouts. They have given YJC Enterprises a loan that has a ten- year term - interest for two years at 5% and then amortizes over eight. A22 Family Focus/Wehsbourd Holmes Fam ly Faces Center John Turner, director gave Family Focus Center's phone number as 847-475-7570, and their web address is FamilyFocus.org. He introduced Lindsey Hagy, in charge of governmental, grants, John Friedland, director of administration and human resources for Family Focus, and Mr. Kevin Limbeck, executive director of Family Focus, Inc. Mr. Turner said that the Family Focus mission is to support children from birth by supporting their families within the community. Family Focus Evanston has been in existence since 1976, and at the Weissbourd-Holmes center since 1983. He said there were two main components to their proposal; ADA compliance and safety for the organization. Of first priority to Family Focus is to add an elevator which requires modifying the east entrance and installing an elevator system to service the basement, ground, second and third boors. So far, Family Focus has raised $200,000 towards the elevator project. The $200,000 from grants from HUD and from the State of Illinois are time limited. in addition, the proposal asks for 22 new doors, a ramp and electric wheel chair lift for the Fleetwood- Jourdain Theater, install visual/audible fire alarm devices throughout the building, and to install ADA signage throughout the building. Aid. Rainey commented that at least six of the twelve tenants at Family Focus are funded by the City of Evanston. She asked what responsibility does Family Focus, Inc feel toward the building here in Evanston. Mr. Turner said that they provide Weissbourd-Holmes Family Focus with infrastructure support as well as financial support. Aid. Kent asked Mr. Turner to speak of the lack of grants Family Focus has applied for. Kevin Limbeck said that in the 80's Family Focus was able to get a grant from Amaco to purchase the building. The emphasis in the last few years has been for operating capital. These has been an ongoing investment of capital upgrade each year in the building and funds have Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 29. 2002 Page Thirteen been raised to accomplish that. However, for a project of this size they have to look towards state, federal and local government for assistance. Aid. Rainey asked why no one had mentioned the fact that there is a strong possibility that District 65 will be leasing part of the building. She asked why should the Committee fund this request when in the next few weeks or months the building could be leased to District 65? Mr. Turner said this request was for getting the building in ADA compliance and that was something that needed to be done whether or not District 65 were to come into the building. Mr. Limbeck said that if District 65 did lease from them it would only be for one floor of the building and it would still be Family Focus's obligation to get the building into ADA compliance. He said that the schools in Illinois are under a different code for handicapped accessibility and there are waivers, but since they would only be on the first floor they would not need the elevator. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Turner to come back to the Committee should they receive any other funding before the Committee makes its decision on November 13. 1n response to a request from Lisa James, Mr. Limbeck said he would supply the Committee with a programmatic budget with the funding sources. Aid. Kent asked if the east entrance is the only place for the elevator. Mr. Turner said that they had an architect come out to the building and advise them where to place the elevator. Ald. Kent said that if the doors are not all exterior doors, why do the inside doors have to be replaced. Mr. Turner said that the doors are required to meet code and safety laws. IV. COMMUNICATIONS Aid. Rainey brought the Committee's attention to the additional material submitted by previous applicants and acknowledged receipt of the materials. V. OTHER BUSINESS Kenneth Rodgers said he was concerned about the separation of church and state and there are several applications from churches. Ald. Rainey said she asked the City of Evanston Legal Department to look at these applications and give her a legal opinion a month ago. She is still waiting to hear from them. Sally Lufkin said she would contact the Legal Department. There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at 11:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Mary E B e, Planning Division PRAFTNOnw-P.Raw, HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Wednesday, November 13, 2002 6:30 P.M. -City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Jean Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Aid. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld, MEMBERS ABSENT: None CHAIR: Aid. Rainey STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske, Community Development Department, Mary Rodino, Raye Janousek Finance Department OTHERS PRESENT: Pam Thomas, Nan Anderson, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services; Tom Frayne, School for Little Children; Eric Huffman, Leo Kirwin, Dorothy Archer, Over the Rainbow; Lindsey Hagy, Family Focus; Jan Weeks, Evanston ADA Committee; Tera Krigbaum, Ralph Segall, Ann Jennett, YJC Enterprises; Dino Robinson, Warren Robinson, Claudette Robinson, Shorefront; Patrick Meneide, Jean Becker, Jacob Francois, HACA; Andrea Lee, Women Helping Women; Robert Roy, Evanston Community Defender, Carla Frisch, Metropolitan Family Services; Mary Friedl, James Alexander Davis, James Sibley, John Bamer Williams, Erla Sylvestre, Jessica Price, Nan Anderson, Seniors Action Services I. CALL TO ORDER Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 6:52 p.m., a quorum being present. Aid. Rainey explained that the meeting tonight was to decide CDBG funding for FY 2003104 for all the proposals submitted. She said that there would not be audience participation tonight unless the Committee had a specific question regarding a proposal. She said that the decisions made tonight would then go before City Council in January 2003, to be adopted. I1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 22, AND OCTOBER 29, 2002. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to approve the minutes of October 22, 2002. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Page Two David Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the minutes of October 29, 2002. Motion seconded by Horace Pa)mc. Motion passed unanimously. III. COMMUNICATIONS Communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Roney. IV. 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM C1 City - Community DevelopmenVCDBG Administration C2 City - Community Development/Housing Advocacy C3 City - Community Development/Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program (M/W/EBE) David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund CDBG Administration at $343,000; Housing Advocacy at $84,000, and the Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program at $95,000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Aid. Jean Baptiste suggested funding fund the M/W/EBE program at $108,590, the Housing Advocacy program at $83,810, and the CDBG Administration at $329,600. Aid. Jean Baptiste said that looking at the CDBG Administration, he felt that not all the money allocated to CDBG Administration was going toward just CDBG. Aid. Rainey said that it is absolutely incorrect that one penny of CD money goes towards anything but CD. Without CDBG administration nothing gets done. CDBG Administration is what makes everything else work. She said that the Housing Advocacy Program helps people with the worst problems and is specifically what Community Development is all about. David Schoenfeld emphasized that cuts have to be made in all of the categories and no program is more important to the community than another. Kenneth Rodgers said that cuts would have to be made across the board, Aid. Bernstein said it is the Committee's job to decide which program is more important. For the past several years MIWIEBE has not spent all of the funds allocated to them, and until they hire another position, they will not need the S108,500 requested. The vote was taken on David Schoenfeld's original motion and passed 7 - 1. A25 Over The Rainbow/Hill Arboretum Apartments Aid. Rainey said that at the last CDBG meeting, Ald. Jean Baptiste suggested that it would be a good idea to leverage some of the requests with loans (or the funding sources). She said that Hill Arboretum Apartments is a classic example of a housing development organization that can get a rehab loan. However, the loan does have to be paid back. Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund Hill Arboretum at 585,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed 8-0. A22 Family Focus IneJWeissbound-Hotmes Family Focus Center Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to fund Family Focus Inc. at $62,000. After much discussion, Lisa James seconded the motion. Motion failed 2-6. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13. 2002 Page Three A23 Hemenway United Methodist Church/Gym Stage Lighting & Sound Renovatiion Aid. Kent moved to fund Hemenway United Methodist Church at S30,000. Kenneth Rodgers asked for clarification regarding the issue of separation of church and state. Sally Lufkin stated that federal funds cannot be used for projects or buildings that are used strictly for a religious purposes, but projects or programs that are sponsored by religious organizations, as long as they are for a non secular purpose can be funded. if the building or program is only for a non -secular use it can be funded at 100%. But, if it is a shared use it can only be funded by the percentage it is used for the non -secular purpose. Aid_ Kent amended his motion to fund the project at S21,000. Motion died for lack of a second. A22 Family Focus, incJWelssbound-Holmes Family Focus Center A23 Hemenway United Methodist Church/Gym Stage Ligkiing & Sound Renovation A26 School for Little ChildrenlWindows Aid. Rainey made a motion to not fund the School for Little Children, Hemenway United Methodist Church, and Family Focus, Inc. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Al Connections for the HomelesslEntry Point David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund Entry Point at S16,000. Aid Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed 7-1. Alb Shorefront NFP/ShorefrontMagazine Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to fund Shorefioant Magazine at S10,000. Aid Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed 7-1. A6 Girl Scouts/llliuois Crossroads CouncillContemporary Awarenew - Evaxsfox Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to fund the Girl Scouts at S5,000. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A28 A Work of Faith Ministries, IncJFaith Cownswity C&Ukare Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to fund the A Work of Faith Ministries, Inc., at $0. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. AS Evanston/Northshore YWCA/YWCA Domestic KolenceProgram Ald. Jean Baptiste made a motion to fund the Evanston/Northshom YWCA at $35,500. Kenneth Rodgers seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A20 Youth Job Center of Evanston/Job Readiness, Job Placement and Follow-up Service Aid. Kent made a motion to fund the Youth Job Center at S70,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Ald. Bernstein asked that the motion be amended to S84,000. Aid. Kent accepted the amendment. Motion passed unanimously. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13. 2002 Page Four AS Haitian American Community Assoc#ation/HACA Education and Training Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to fiord HACA at $28,246. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion passed 7-1. A3 Evanston Community Defender/Evanston Community Defender's Office Ald. Kent made a motion to fund the Evanston Community Defender at $70,000. Ald. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said that she said last year she had announced that the time had come that the Community Defender should be phased out from CDBG funding. She said there was other money throughout Evanston that funds this agency. Aid. recommended funding the Community Defender at half of their request and that the Community Defender was a duplication of other programs and for that reason she could not support the motion as presented. Aid. Bernstein said that the Community Defender's services were incredibly important. During his service on the Board of the Community Defender he became aware of the empowerment of the people that were represented by this agency. They felt as if they had gotten a fair shake through the system. He said that there is no duplication; the Community Defender there are legal assistance foundations available at the county level, but they are not what the Community Defender program does. They deal almost exclusively with juveniles; they go to organizations (such as schools) and represent the youths. They Community Defender has been one of the strong points of the Evanston community and if they can turn around the young people's lives, it is worth almost anything the Committee can afford to pay. Motion passed 7-1. Al Foster Reading Center Al2 Metropolitan Family ServiceslElder Abuse Prevention Counseling Services Horace Payne made motion to fund Foster Reading Center at 510,000 and the Elder Abuse Prevention Counseling Services at $6,480. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C5 City - Community Development/Planning/Adopt a Fancy Can Ald. Jean Baptiste made a motion to fund the Adopt a Fancy Can at SO. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Aid. Rainey said that this was one of those programs that was her proposal last year and has been extremely popular. People in the Target Area can exchange an old oil can for a very attractive trash can. The Sanitation Department does not empty the cans, the individual given the fancy can empties it. Aid. Jean Baptiste said that in light of the funds the Committee has, the fancy can should be low priority. Aid. Bernstein said that he has noticed an immediate change in the areas where there are the new trash cans. Aid. Kent said that the program has the potential to make someone take ownership in their community. Motion failed 3-5. Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund the Adopt a Fancy Can at S 10,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed 5-3. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Page Five C7 City - Human Relations CommissioulSummer Youth Employment Administration Aid. Kent made motion to fund the Summer Youth Employment Administration program at $70,000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. In response to a question, Paula Haynes said that the $70,000 would be deducted from the $237,000 that is currently funded out of the General Fund. Motion passed unanimously. C6 City Police DepartmentlSenior Crime Prewwdon Program Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to fund the Senior Crime Prevention Program at S21,000. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Aid. Bernstein asked to make an amendment to the motion to fund the Senior Crime Prevention Program at the 523,000 requested. Kenneth Rodgers accepted the amendment. Motion passed unanimoush•. C4 City - Community DevelopmendGraffiti Removal Program David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund the Graffiti Removal Program at $31,000. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Motion passed Unanimously Ate 0111ver & Judy GraylTreasure Chest Summer Camp Aid. Bernstein made a motion to fund the Treasure Chest Summer Camp at $0. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. A7 John Barner/First Base Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to fund First Base at SO. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motioe passed unanimously. A4 Evanston Ecumenical Action CouncHIEEACHospltaiity Center Mentoring Program Ald. Jean Baptiste made a motion to fund the EEAC Hospitality Center Mentoring Program at SO. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. A10 Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago/Evanston Legal Services Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund Evanston Legal Services at 510,000. Motion seconded by Ald. Berstein. Motion passed unanimously. All Strive Chicago Employment Service/Strive North Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund Strive North at SO. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Aid. Kent said that he thought this was a worthwhile program because it helped people just out of the penitentiary and there were few programs like this one. He asked to amend Aid. Rainey's motion to fund the program at $15,000. Aid. Rainey accepted the amendment. Aid. Rainey said that she was told by a person that works at Strive that the Committee should fund them because Evanston refers their General Assistance clients to Strive. She said she called the General Assistance Office and they said they never refer clients to Strive, they refer them to the m Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Pa¢e Six Strategic Corporate Alliance at the Youth Job Center. She said she was planning on not supporting them, but she realizes that by giving them 515,000 that they might help one or two clients. Motiou passed unanimously. A9 Interfaith Housing Center/Homesharing Program A19 Andrea LeelWomen Helping Women David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund the Homesharing Program at $17,500 and Women helping Women at SO. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Mr. Schoenfeld remade the motion to fund the Homesharing Program a S 17,500. Motion seconded by Ald. Rainey. Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Schoenfeld made a motion to fund the Women Helping Women program at $0. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Aid. Kent said that he thought the Women Helping Women program could get more out of their rent dollars by doing more research. Aid. Rainey encouraged Andrea Lee to speak with St. Francis Hospital regarding their property on Mulford. Aid. Rainey thought that St. Francis might be willing to work with Ms. Lee if they had some open space. Motion passed 7-1. Alb A Work Of Faith Ministries, Inc lNorthskore Community Services Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund Northshore Community Services at SO. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion passed unanimously. A13 North Shore Senior Center/ Evanston/Skokie Va&7 Senior Servm Lisa James made a motion to fund Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services at $30,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed unanimously. A28 A Work of Faith Ministries, IncJFaith Community Childcare Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund Faith Community Childcare at $0. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed unanimously. C8 City - Community Development/Community Development AdminLwration David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund Community Development Administration at S100,000. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Motion passed unanimously. C9 City - Community Development/Housing Code Compliance David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund Housing Code Compliance at $240,000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Aid. Jean Baptiste said that there are five housing inspectors. He said that two of the five serve non-CDBG areas. Community Development Director James Wolinski said that there are five housing inspectors with one supervisor. Two of the inspectors are assigned 100a/a toward inspections in the CDBG Target Area, and for those the request is for 100% CDBG funding. The remaining three inspectors work both in an out of the Target Area, and 30a/c funding for of those three salaries is requested. in response to a further Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13. 2002 Pace Seven query from Aid. Jean Baptiste, Mr. Wolinski replied that two inspectors work all of the multi- family buildings above two units, the other three inspectors pickup the various two unit buildings that are in their area; the City is divided into three major areas. Aid. lean Baptiste asked if, considering the current budget, if the department could do without the vacant inspector position. Mr. Wolinski said that it depends on what kind of service the Council wants. Right now, with five inspectors and one supervisor the department is able to conduct an inspection cycle of approximately once every three years. To reduce one position would change the cycle to every four years. Aid. lean Baptiste suggested that the Housing Code Compliance be funded at S210,000. Aid. Rainey said that there is no more important allocation made by Community Development or focused on by Housing and Urban Development than decent, safe and sanitary housing. It is a right of all people, and this is the primary way that the City makes housing livable in the CDBG Target Area. It is the only way the City has gotten rid of some of the worst landlords through the inspectors who are totally dedicated, spend hours in court, hours in the field and that the City cannot do without all five inspectors. Motion passed 7-1. C10 City - Community Development /Housing Rehab Adm1nishw ion David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund the Housing Rehab Administration at $230,000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C1 I City - Community Development/Demolition David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund Demolition at $40,000. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C12 City - Community DevelopmentlProgram Income. Revolving Loan Fund David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund the Revolving Loan Fund at $200,000. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Motion passed unanimously. C13 City - Health/Human Services/Adaptive Devices David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund Adaptive Devices at S15,000. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Motion passed unanimously. C21 CEDA/Neighbors at Work/Minor Repairs/Paindng Assistance David Schoenfeld made a motion to fund Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance at SI78,150. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C16 City - Parks/Forestry & Recreation/Target Area Tare Planting Aid. Kent made a motion to fund Target Area Tree Planting at SM,000. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Paae Eiaht C14 - CIty - Parks/Forestry & Recreation/Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center Aid. Kent made a motion to fund Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center at $345,000. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Aid. Kent said while the fields that are there could be better, if there is a school going to be built in that area those improvements could be deferred. He based the amount of S345,000 on boiler reconstruction at S225,000, fire alarm system at S35,000, and S85,000 for the lift to the second floor. Aid. Rainey asked if Aid. Kent would consider a reallocation of $100,000 previously allocated to Fleetwood/Jourdain. Ald. Kent said he would not like to reallocate S 100,000. Discussion ensued regarding previous funding of Fleetwood/Jourdain and use of money allocated to the Center in previous years. Ald. Kent amended his motion to fund the Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center at $232,500. Motion passed unanimously. C15 City - Parks/Forestry & RecreationlMason Park Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to fund Mason Park at $150,000. Lisa James seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. C17 City - Public Works/ARey Paving - East ClydelNorth Howard Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund Alley Paving cast of Clyde/north ofHoward at $85,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Kent. Motion passed unanimously. C20 City - Public Works/2003 Accessible Curb Ramp Program Horace Payne made a motion to fund the Accessible Curb Ramp Program at $90,000. Motion seconded by Aid. Kent. Motion passed unanimously. C19 City - Public Works/Block Curb/Sidewalk Program Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund the Block Curb/Sidewalk Program at SI00,OD0. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey urged Committee members to support this program because it improves the sidewalks and curbs in the CDBG Target Area that might otherwise not get support to be maintained. Motion passed unanimously. CI City - Public Works/Alley Improvement Program Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund the Alley Improvement Program at $200,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A27 YJC Enterprises/Ben & Jerry's Partnershop Aid. Kent made a motion to fund Ben & Jerry's Partnershop at S170,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Kent said that he thought this one of the most exciting programs that have come to the Committee in a long time. It has the potential to employ as well as train a Iot ofEvanston's youth. David Schoenfeld agreed it was a worthwhile endeavor, but in light of the funding problems, YJC has indicated it can get by with considerably less money. Lisa James asked if Aid. Kent would accept an amendment to fund Ben & Jerry's at $25,000. Aid. Kent agreed. David Schoenfeld seconded the amendment. Motion passed unanimously. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Pane Nine C21 City - Community Develop, ent/PlanninglNeighborhoodStor�efiont Improvement Program Aid. Bernstein made a motion to fund the Neighborhood Storefront Improvement Program at 550,000. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed ananimoosly. A15 Seniors Action Service/Excel Aid, Rainey made a motion to fund the Excel program at SO. Lisa James seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Ald. Bernstein asked if Sally Lufkin had heard from the HUD representative regarding moving the Adopt a Fancy Can program and the Graffiti Removal Program to another category from the Public Services category. Ms. Lufkin replied that HUD told her that both progianis would have to remain in the Public Services category. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to find A6 Girl Scouts at SO. Aid. Jean Baptiste suggested that all the programs in Public Services (except for Homeshsring) be cut an equal amount of l5%. Aid. Bernstein said that 15% off one program might gut it completely and proposed the following funding: A3 - Evanston Community Defender at $62,000 A5 - Domestic Violence Program at 535,453 A8 - RACA at 520,000 Al I - Foster Reading Center at 55,000 A13 - Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services at 527,000 A] 6 - Shorefront Magazine at 55,000 A I7 - Strive North at S 10,000 A20 - YJC - at $80,000 C5 - Adopt a Fancy Can at S5,000 C7 - Summer Youth Employment at $50,000. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion Horace Payne suggested funding Strive at SO and First Base at $5,000. Aid. Bernstein did not accept that amendment. Aid. Jean Baptiste suggested taking 15% off all the agencies. David Schoenfeld said that 15% is too big a cut to make across the board, he felt the Committee should zero in on their priorities. Lisa James suggested that the Evanston Community Defenders Office and YJC be reduced. Aid. Jean Baptiste said he felt that cutting 15% across the board was the most equitable way of balancing the budget. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13. 2002 Paste Ten Aid. Bernstein said that cuts have already been made to reflect priorities, and now to come to the point where the Committee has already eliminated 100% of some agencies and add 15% to them would be fine if we go back to the beginning and reapportion every reduction made equitably. Aid. Jean Baptiste suggested taking S3,000 from the Graffiti Removal Program and move it to the HACA program. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Jean Baptiste clarified that he supported funding for S23,000 for HACA and S28,000 for the Graffiti Removal program. Motion passed 5-3. Aid. Berstein's original motion amended by AkL Jean Baptiste passed 7-1. AG Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads CouiteWContemporaryAwareness Evanstonr C7 City - Humans Relations Commission Summer Youth Employment Administration Kenneth Rodgers made a motion that A6 Girl Contemporary Awareness be funded at SO and that C7 Summer Youth Employment Administration be funded at $55,000. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Aid. Kent asked that the S5,000 be moved to First Base. Kenneth Rodgers did not accept the amendment. Kenneth Rodgers original motion passed unanimously. C3 City - Finance DepartmentlMinority,Women,Evanston Business Program Aid. Rainey made a motion to reduce Minority, Women, Evanston Business Program to $93,000 and increase Housing Advocacy by $2,000 to S86,000. Motion passed unanimously. C21 City -Community Development/Plannin$/NeighborhoodStorefront Improvement Program Aid. Rainey made a motion to eliminate the S50,000 for Neighborhood Storefront Improvement Program. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. A17 Stove Chicago Employment Service/Strive North Aid. Rainey made a motion to eliminate funding for Strive. Horace Payne seconded the motion. 4 ayes - 4 nays. Motion failed. Cl1 City Community Development/Demothlon Aid. Rainey made a motion to eliminate funding for the C 11 Demolition program. Motion seconded by David Schoenfcld. Motion passed 8-0. C18 City -Public Works/Alley Improvement Program Aid. Bernstein made a motion to reduce S20,000 from the Alley Improvement Program_ and to fund it at S 180,000. Motion passed 8-0. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Page Eleven C19 City -Public WorltslBlock Curb/Shkwalk Program Aid. Kent made a motion to reduce the Block Curb/Sidewalk Program by $10,000 and to fund it at 590,000. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed 8-0. C9 City - Community Development - Housing Code Compliance Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to reduce the Housing Code Compliance program by 517,000. Motion died for lack of a second. A21 CEDA/Neighbors at Work/Minor Repairsmainting Assistance Ald. Bernstein made a motion to reduce the Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance funding by S 10,000 and fund it at S 168,150. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed 8-0. A17 Strive Chicago Employment ServicelStrive North Aid. Rainey made a motion to eliminate funding for Strive. Horace Payne seconded the motion. Motion passed 5-3. C1 City -Community DevelopmentMknning/CDBCAdministradon Sally Lufkin said she could reduce the CDBG Administration budget by $10,000, which was accepted by the Committee. C16 City - Parks/Forestry & Recreation/Target Area Tree Planting Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to reduce Target Area Tree Planting finding by 51,822. Kenneth Rodgers seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey said she opposed this motion because there is no other way to get money for this Target Area Tree Planting. Motion failed 2- 6. A27 YJC Enterprises/Ben & Jerry's Partnershop David Schoenfeld made a motion to reduce A27 Ben & Jerry's Partnershop by S1,822 and fund it at $23,178. Aid. Kent seconded the motion. Motion passed 5-3. Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to recommend adoption to City Council of the proposed allocation of$2,822,321 for the City's 2003/04 Community Development Block Program. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Jean Baptiste made a motion to reallocate unspent funds from completed and prior years' projects in the amount of 5212,261 to the 2003/04 CDBG budget. Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Jan Weeks encouraged the Committee to fund the YWCA Domestic Violence Program and also to put a handicapped accessible curb in front of the building so that the program would be accessible to all. She then read a letter from Larry Biondi urging the Committee to fully find the 2003 Accessible Curb Ramp and the Adaptive Devices programs. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 13.2002 Page Two John Turner, director of Weissbound-Holmes Family Focus Center, urged the Committee to reconsider and fund the Weissbound-Holmes Family Focus Center. Tom Frayne, School for Little Children offered the following scenario. He said that if he were one of the programs that had received $200,000 plus, he would be willing to give up S1,000. If sixteen other programs was to give up S1,000 each as well, then low income children would not have to go to a day care center with no windows. VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at 11:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, May 7aamske Planning Division CITY OF EVANSTON A. of Novwrit.r CL 2W2 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FY 2003104 Cl -COMMUNITY P NlNG ON JCFTY ITY - HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION IHOUSINGRAM E � �C � CITY - FINANCE DEPARTMENT MINORITY. WOMEN. EVANSTON BUSINESS PROGRAM 88.000 108.590 93.000 lAD@KNI37 lVMTOTALa $604.7001 swl"0I ulzoM IADMfI!RSTRATION CATEGORY CAP- UMM0 Al COINWwCTiONS FOR THE HOMELESS A2 COUNCIL FOR JEWISH ELDERLY' A3 EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEFENDER A4 EVANSTON ECUMENICAL ACTION COUNCIL AS EVANSTOWNORTHSHORE YWCA AS GIRL SCOUTSALLINOIS CROSSROADS COUNCIL A7 JOHN BARER AS HAITIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION A9 JINTERFAITH HOUSING CENTER A10 LEGAL. ASSISTANCE FOUNDATIONCHICAGO Al I MGGAW YMCA Al2 METROPOLITAN FAMILY SERVICES Al NORTH SHORE SENIOR CENTER A14 OLIVER 8 JULIE GRAY' Al SHOREfROHTNFP' A17 STRIVE CHICAGO EMPLOYMENT SERVICE' A18 A WORK OF FAITH MINISTRIES, INC A19 ANDREA LEE A20 YOUTH JOB CENTER OF EVANSTON A28 A WORK OF FAITH MINISTRIES. INC. C4 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C5 CITY - COM MLNITY DEVELOPMENTIPLANNING 08 CITY - POLICE DEPARTMENT C7 CITY - HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION ENTRY POINT 116.000 316.000 i/5.000 HEROS {525.000} 0 0 w1uld.m. EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEFENDER'S OFFICE BO.ow 85.000 02.0W EEAC HOSPITALITY CENTER MENTORIIIG PROGRAM 7.900 10.000 0 YWCA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAM 35.500 37,000 35.453 CONTEMPORARY AWARENESS - EVANSTON 5,000 10,000 0 FIRST BASE 0 18.348 0 HACA EDUCATION & TRAINING 23,000 100.00d 23.0W IHOMESHARIIIG PROGRAM 20,0W 22.000 17.500 ]EVANSTON LEGAL SERVICES 0.000 10,000 10,000 FOSTER READING CENTER 01 20.000 5,000 ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION COUNSELING, SERVICES � 6,480 0.480 BAW EVANSTONISKOKIE VALLEY SENIOR SERVICES ij 30.000 34,000 ZT.000 CHEST SUMMER CAMP I 0 1 40.0001 0 ITREASURE SHOREFRONT MAGAZINE 0 10.000 5.000 (STRIVE NORTH 0 40,000 1 0 INORTHSHORE COMMUNITY SERVICES 0 4400(i 0 WOMEN HELPING WOMEN 0 2181800 0 JOB READINESS, JOB PLACEMENT AND FOLLOW-UP SVC. 64.000 90t 80,000 FAITH CC"9J N" CHILDCARE 0 55.000 0 GRAFFITI REMOVAL PROGRAM 28,000 31.000 28.OW ADOPT A FANCY CAN 10.340 10.000 SAW SENIOR CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM 21.0001 23,000 23,000 SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT ADMINISTRATION I OI 55.000 55.000 PUBLIC SERVICES TOTAL: 1"220 1 :1�0111y401 S396 3i PUBLIC SERVICES CAP: i408A33 - CRY OF EVANSTON As of Norsntbw 13,202 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FY 2W3104 APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS CNI CITY - CO%aA PITY DEVELOPMENT SM.: 3102.100 i10L1.000 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION COMMUNITY C9 CITY - COY DEVELOPMENT HOUSING CODE COMPLIANCE 233.500 247.2M M.000 C10 CITY - C. UMUNITY DEVELOPMENT HOUSING REHAB ADMINISTRATION 231.500 241,5W 230AW C11 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEMOLITION 0 40,000 0 C12 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (PROGRAM INCOME: REVOLVING LOAN FUND 125,0001 200,000 2WI000 C13 CITY-HEALTHJ"UMAN SERVICES 1ADAPTIYE DEVICES 15,0001 40,000 f 5,004 1121 CE�EIGHBORS AT WORK (MINOR REPAIRSIPAINTING ASSISTANCE 178,1501 200.393 IM150 MOUSING TOTAL, $871,6NI0 � f1,079.1931 f!6?titA>0 C14 CITY - PARKBIFORESTRY & RECREATION IFLEETWOODIJOURDAIN COMMUNMY CENTER t281 000 WW = > Cf 5 CITY - PARKSIFORESTRY A RECREATION YASON PARK - 0 37;5.000 150AW C16 CITY - PARKS/ ORESTRY 3 RECREATION TARGET AREA TREE PLANTING 0 2ih6a 23.000 C17 CITY - PUMLIC WORKS ALLEY PAVING - EAST CLYDE/NORT H HOWARD 0 170"0 E5.000 CIO CITY - PUBLCC WORKS ALLEY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 80,000 200.000 1d0_000 C19 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS IBLOCK CURBISIOEWALK PROGRAM + 7000 100,000 90.000 C20 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS �2003 ACCESSIBLE CURB RAMP PROGRAM 86.000 125.000 90AW IPLISLIC 1YPROVEMENTS TOTAL: � $519,000 1 S1.625�IQQ A22 FAMILY FOCUS, INC. WEISS80UND-HOLMES FAMrLY FOCUS CENTER $18,000 11 M.777 70 A23 HEMENWAY UNITED uu"omsT CHURCH GYM STAGE LIGHTING d SOUND RENOVATION 0 30.000 0 AN INFANT WELFARE SOCIETY OF EVANSTON BABY TODDLER NURSERY 60,000 63.455 MMwdra Az OVER THE RAINBOW A$St1CIATION HILL ARBORETUM APARTMENTS 0 175.875 I15.000 A20 SCHOOL FOR LITTLE CHILDREN' WINDOWS 0 17,500 0 PUBLIC FACILITIES TOTAL_ 1 11".000 I se"I 67 1 W.0v0 C21 RCNTY - COMWJNITY DEVIPL AN NING INEX"ORHOOD STOREFRONT *AMNEMENT PROD. sa 1 swim) 5L1 A27 YJC ENTERPRISES' BEN A JERRY S PARTNERSHOP 0 185.000 zX178 A15 SENIORS ACTION SERVICE EXCEL 01 7,500� IECONOMC DEVELOPMENT TOTAL I to J $242,5W 1 SA178 koScal" new program or first brae app1,at i CRY OF EVANSTON As of Mam" 1& =2 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRAKT PROGRAM FY 2003104 APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECrOMMEliOATIONS TOM ApplicaMom 41 AfncyAppbco"w 20 Cky Dupwbv wiW Appf mdom: 21 kwnw b@rAppMerdar F ., , I Furm*q: 74 "I 3 i •• 1 +.. � er t. HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE Evanston MINUTES Tuesday, December 17, 2002 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Conunurtity Development Departr6ent OTHERS PRESENT: Eric Huffman, Over the Rainbow Association; Jan Weeks; Larry Biondi; Mary Friedl; Matt Passen; James Sibley, Tera Krigbaum, Ann Jennett, Youth Job Center, Gail Schechter, Interfaith Housing Center, Chuck Ronan; Mary Ann Brackey; Dino Robinson; John Banner Williams, First Base; Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender's Office; John Turner, Family Focus; Elisabeth Karl PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m., a quorum being present IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 13, 2002 Aid. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the November 13, 2002 meeting. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 6-0. 1111. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM BUDGET AND PROPOSED ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2003/04 A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing B. Staff memorandum and spreadsheet of Committee funding recommendations made 11/13/02 C. Public Hearing Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 17, 2002 Page 2 Ald. Rainey acknowledged receipt of the Notice of Public Hearing and staff' memorandum. She opened the Public Hearing at 7:52 p.m. She invited persons who wished to speak about the proposed FY 2003/04 CDBG program budget or One Year Action Plan for FY 2003/04 to make sure they put their names on the sign-up sheet. Ann Jennett — Ben & Jerrv's PartnerShon Ms. Jennett thanked the committee for its support over the years not only for the Youth Job Center, but for the Ben & Jerry's PartnerShop initiative, which is recommended for funding in the FY 2003/04 CDBG program budget. Ms. Jennett noted that $185,000 had been requested in economic development category funds for Ben & Jerry's. She said that those funds had been requested for training of personnel in job skills: i.e., customer service skills, how to deal with peer pressure, how to deal with co-workers. At Ben & Jerry's they will learn how to organize and manage the store. When the trainees graduate from the job skills training program, they will be placed into another job building on the experience learned at the Ben & Jerry's. Ms. Jennett spoke about the misunderstanding between YJC Enterprises board members and some of the members of the committee at the November 13, 2002 meeting, which resulted in Ben & Jerry's receiving $23,178 in CDBG funds, a much lower amount than is, in reality, needed to operate the job training program. CDBG funds will allow YJC to open the store, but will not be enough funding to maintain the program. She requested that if the City receives more CDBG funding for FY 2003/04 than it is estimating, that the committee consider additional funding for the Ben & Jerry's PartnerShop. Ms. Jennett introduced Mary Ann Brackey from the YJC Enterprises board of directors and also a graduate of Ben & Jerry's Scoop University. Mary Ann Brackey — YJC Enterprises Ms. Brackey said that she and her husband had a small actuarial consulting business in Evanston. She said that she has been focusing on the budgetary numbers for the opening and operation of Ben & Jerry's and trying to anticipate the case flow needs of the new shop. The $23,178 that is proposed in 2003/04 CDBG funding for Ben & Jerry's will enable the store to open and is very important to the operation. She spoke about the unusual operation of a not -far -profit enterprise and what is needed to get it "up and running", including build out, store furnishings, training staff before the store opens, and Ow value of a first job training experience for Youth Job Center clients. Ben & Jerry's is not in the position of a Mom and Pop operation, where they could defer receiving a salary from the proceeds of the business until the middle or end of the year. Ms. Brackey requested that if there are any additional CDBG funds available for 2003, the YJC Enterprises board would appreciate the committee's consideration of additional funding for the extraordinary training which will be done at Ben & Jerry's. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 17, 2002 Page 3 Gail Schechter — Interfaith Housine Center of the Northern Suburbs Ms. Schechter said that she was the Executive Director of the Interfaith Housing Center. She said that she was attending the meeting in her agency's capacity as the fair housing agency for the north suburban region and wanted to address the One Year Action Plan for FY 2003/04. She recommended that the committee sponsor a new analysis of impediments to fair housing choice in Evanston. What is outlined in the One Year Action Plan are concerns related to housing and economic development for Evanston's low/moderate income population is incomplete. She shared with the committee a copy of an analysis of impediments which was done for the greater Washington metropolitan area and one from IHDA (Illinois Housing Development Authority) as examples of thorough in explaining first what an analysis of impediments is, showing how the community regulatory procedures, policies and practices affect the location, availability and accessibility of housing for protected classes. The point is to develop a plan to affirmatively further fair housing in Evanston based on the analysis of impediments. She thought that a thorough analysis needed to be done in Evanston on both affordable housing and fair housing choice. Ms. Schechter spoke about some "red flags" which prompted her to address the committee. There is a lot of discussion about of new jobs being created, but no specific mention of specific numbers of housing units for the low/moderate income worker. Ms. Schechter also passed out Interfaith's own analysis of the 2000 census data. Evanston is the only north shore community where the senior population is actually decreasing in size and a major reason for this is predatory lending. She discussed an Evanston client who is being helped by Interfaith in a predatory lending situation. Ms. Schechter said that there is a real epidemic in Evanston of foreclosures due to predatory lending practices. Ms. Schechter spoke about the population growth in Evanston, which is actually slowing, while the number of households is increasing. The population has growth approximately 1% since 1990 while the number of households has increased 6%. That means, that there are a lot of small (one, two person) households. By contrast, in Skokie there situation is the complete opposite. The Skokie population increased by 6% since 1990, while the number of households increased 2%. She noted that there are a lot more families with children living in Skokie. Families with children is a protected class in Evanston. Section 8 voucher holders are able to find housing only in lower income, often segregated neighborhoods. There are a lot of issues related to all protected classes and Ms. Schechter said that she thought it would be very exciting if Evanston would put together and group of public and private individuals to study these areas. Otherwise, what is currently happening with housing choice will continue. She passed out a copy of an outline developed by the National Fair Housing Alliance of elements of an analysis of Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 17, 2002 Page 4 impediments to affordable housing, lack of which is considered an impediment to fair housing choice. Aid. Rainey asked for proof that the practice of predatory lending is affecting Evanston's senior population. Ms. Schechter responded that the people who come to interfaith regarding predatory lending situations are all seniors. She added that Evanston is the one community on the north shore which is experiencing a decrease in the over 60 age popluation. Ald. Kent asked if other suburbs are experiencing predatory lending practices in loans to seniors similar to the experience in Evanston. Ms. Schechter said that Evanston had 125 in 2000 and the closest community (in numbers) was Skokie with 49, then Glenview with 43. In Chicago, predatory lending is depicted as a big issue with seniors. Aid. Kent responded that he thought the large number of predatory lending cases in Evanston were due to other factors besides lack of education. Discussion ensued regarding a predatory lending seminar hosted a year or so ago by the Housing and Community Development Act Committee with participants from Interfaith Housing Center and other agencies serving Evanston. The subject of the importance of education about the lending process before becoming involved in a "predatory" loan was discussed and how to go about stopping predatory lenders from approaching Evanston's most vulnerable populations. Aid. Bernstein added that "predatory" lending is not illegal, so it is difficult to go after people who make these types of loans. Mary Fried) Ms. Friedl read a letter addressed to the Committee from Larry Biondi regarding the CDBG funding of the City's accessible curb ramp program. Aid. Rainey commented on the curb ramps along Simpson and Ashland, which had to be redone because of construction activity which took place in the area after the curie ramp improvements had been made. Ms. Friedl discussed federal ADA ]awrs, which have been in existence for ten years. She discussed the applicability of ADA guidelines to federally funded projects, which included CDBG funding. She said that it is Evanston's responsibility to ensure that whoever receives CDBG funding for a project that ADA guidelines and Section 504 Act regulations are being followed. She said that following the guidelines is not a choice but the law. Ms. Friedl asked that the ADA regulations be taken into consideration by the committee in making future funding decisions. Ms. Fried] concluded her remarks by thanking the committee for its hard work. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 17, 2002 Page 5 Bob Rov. Evanston Community Defender's Office Mr. Roy, on behalf of the board of directors and staff, thanked the committee for its 2003/04 grant award to the Evanston Community Defender's Office. John Barner Williams — First Base Mr. Williams spoke about the First Base program, which recently relocated form First United Methodist Church to Fisher Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church. The program has been housed for the past eleven years at First United Methodist Church and was entirely supported by the church. (First Base provides space on weekday aftemoons for homeless persons to use telephones, FAX machines and copiers. They can also use the church's address for receiving mail.) Because the First United Methodist Church will be undergoing a lengthy rehab of its buildings, the First Base program has had to find a new "home", which will be at Fisher Memorial AME Church. Currently the program has approximately 130 clients. Mr. Williams spoke about the number of boarded up buildings in the 5a' ward which could be rehabbed into affordable housing, particularly for homeless persons and families. He spoke about addressing the needs of the whole person and asked the committee to consider First Base, should it receive additional 2003 CDBG funding. Aid. Rainey asked why applicants (for CDBG funds) who are not receiving grants are testifying that their clients are not receiving services from other Evanston organizations, who state that they are providing services to the homeless population. Connections for the Homeless is supposedly serving the homeless through a network of services. She asked Mr. Williams why his clients are not referred and/or receiving services firm Connections. Discussion continued on homeless persons living in Evanston, which persons are able to access services, and coordination of services. Aid. Rainey discussed the services of the Evanston Township office, stating that this office and its services are not being fully utilized by the population the township is intended to serve. She said that if the City is funding organizations which say that they are serving the homeless population, then it needs to ensure that these agencies are actually providing services to these persons. Aid. Rainey asked Mr. Williams to organize a meeting of the people who say that they are not able to receive services from the Evanston community. She said that she would bring together the organizations which provide services for the homeless and a dialogue can be started between the homeless community and organizations which serve the homeless. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —December 17, 2002 Page 6 Dino Robinson. Shorefront Magazine Mr. Robinson thanked the committee for its 2003/04 grant for Shorefront Magazine. He discussed a recent television program on Chicago's north shore; noted that only about 2 minutes of the program discussed the African American community on the north shore. He discussed the outreach and educational efforts of the Shorefront program and its contribution to the history of the north suburban area. The public hearing closed at 9:00 p.m. Ald. Rainey pointed out to the committee and guests that the City may not know its exact entitlement amount for 2003 by the City Council's January 13, 2003 meeting date. Most of the 2003 funding bills have not been approved by Congress, which adjourned in November. The new Congress will take up these bills wren it goes into session in January. All the numbers which were used to calculate 2003 funding for the CDBG, HOME and ESG programs were based on estimates. She explained the reasoning for calculating the CDBG and HOME programs at an increased level, which was based on using 2000 census for the first time. She said that she expected the ESG program to be funded at approximately the same level as the City has been receiving for the past few years, $83,000. D. Vote by Committee to recommend approval to the City Council of the proposed 2003/04 CDBG program budget and One year Action Plan for FY 2003/04 Ald. Kent made a motion to recommend approval to the City Council of the FY 2003/04 CDBG program and One Year Action Plan for FY 2003/04. Ald. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion and it was approved, 6-0. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Infant Welfare Society of Evanston — letter of invitation to Committee B. School for Little Children — Infant Toddler Center — letter from Executive Director Barbara Davis C. Youth Job Center of Evanston — letter re YJC Enterprises Ben & Jerry's PartnerShop D. Evanston Housing Commission — Minutes of October 17, 2002 Meeting E. Annual Home Sale Averages for City of Evanston (from Donna Spicurza) F. legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago — Single Audit for 6/30/02 G. NCDA Legislative Alert re new Congress H. NCDA Washington Reporl for November 22, 2002 Housing do Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 17, 2002 Page 7 1. Newspaper Articles Environment may play part in healing elderly - City acquiriing South Shore lots - Affordable homes for an "up -and -coning" area Realtors table vote on posting Web firm listings - Fla. City giving $1M to boost housing Average home price up 8.8% in U.S., 13.6% here New town center may reflect city's transformation - In Charlotte, appeal of living downtown (Uptown) grows - A picture of rising prices, lower expectations - Community is the common denominator for cohousing Fighting housing with housing - City plan aims at its slumlord - Study: Less affordable homes, not overpriced - Florida "blueprint for Sprawl" may help check growth A rescue from foreclosure And now, a loan that lets you skip payments - Naperville law said to encourage teardowns - Affordable housing moving away from Milwaukee suburbs - How Freddie Mac weathers re-fi storms - Park Ridge's rising prices don't stop home buyers - Seattle's historic homes get second lease of life - Zoning, crime on the agenda for neighbors - Some wrinkled in City budget - Is Akron, Ohio's `green' law asking too much? - Work project to benefit teens, young adults - FHA borrowers: HUD may owe you a refund - Soaring home costs price many out of the market - Milwaukee project to create housing - Milwaukee joins the praise for the humble bungalow - Tight housing market in Virginia - Affordable housing advocates blast insurance scoring - Carolina developer tries mixed -use community - Bloomberg outlines plan to increase housing The communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Aid. Kent asked that at a future meeting that the committee discuss job training programs and what services various organizations offer, i.e., Strive, Connections for the Homeless, Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 17, 2002 Page 8 General Assistance, Emergency Assistance. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he thought that it would be a good idea for the committee to take an inventory of the services available to the community. He added that it will be worthwhile to the committee in considering future applications for CDBG funding. Ald. Rainey asked that some of the more institutionalized organizations doing similar work be asked to participate. It may turn out that some of the people can be served by the more traditional programs. Ms. Lull n said that the committee had been invited to hold an upcoming meeting at the Infant Welfare Society's Baby Toddler Nursery. Aid. Rainey said that the committee would be in favor of doing that, but at a later time, such as March or April. Eric Huffman, Executive Director of the Over the Rainbow Association presented a plaque to the committee in thanks and recognition of its support to the disabled community and to Over the Rainbow's Hill Arboretum. VDL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 4:30 p.m. staff. Date: February 17, 2003 .. . may. . '•r�� ., 'V.", ' • MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for January 2003 has been canceled The nca meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for February 18, 2003 at 7;30 pm. in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. A i Eof vanstorr HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, February 18, 2003 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Lisa dames, Horace Payne, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Kent, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Alexa Stanard, Helen Roberts -Evans, Child Care Center of Evanston; Jessie Macdonald; Patricia Vance, CEDA/Neighbors at Work; Pam Thomas, North Shone Senior Center PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m., a quorum being present IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 8 AND DECEMBER 17, 2002 MEETINGS Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the October 8 and December 17, 2002 meetings. The motion was seconded by Ald. Bernstein. Motion carried, 64L III. PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES FROM CDBG GRANTEES Child Care Center of Evanston Helen Roberts -Evans, Executive Director, reported on the Child Care C ater's renovation of the rear addition to its building at 1840 Asbury, completed in 2002. In addition to Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 18, 2003 Page 2 making the addition more structurally sound, CDBG funding also replaced interior flooring and exterior doors. Ms. Roberts -Evans thanked the committee for allocating additional funding for the project in September in order to make repairs to a leaky roof and tuckpointing of the chimney. These repairs were not part of the original project, but became apparent during renovation. With the additional funding, the Child Care Center was able to have Superior Exteriors, contractor for the rear building renovation project, make the repairs to the roof and chimney. She said that the Child Cage Center was also able to contribute funds toward the additional work, by deferring a stair tile repair Protect, which was not an emergency. All work has been completed and payments made. A future project for the Child Care Center will be to replace the second floor windows in the building addition. She said that she suspects that there is leakage in the windows, as the heating bills have increased this winter. Sally Lufkin suggested that the Child Care Center have an energy efficiency study done of its building to determine if window leakage is the cause of increased heading costs. It was suggested that the Child Care Center contact either Nicor or the Center for Neighborhood "Technology for free or low cost energy studies. CEDA/Neiehbors at Work Patricia Vance discussed the Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance program. All CDBG funds will be expended this year, in fact, the program is operating over budget. One of the crews has been furloughed until March. The program will meet its program objectives for the year, with the exception of minor repairs which will probably be 3 houses under goal. The agency always has a waiting list; currently the list has 15-20 people waiting for interior painting. The exterior painting list is longer. Property owners are listed in order of need. Those with housing code violations citations are given first priority, in order to keep the property owner from having to appear in Housing Court. Senior citizens are also given priority. One of the major challenges during the year was inspection and remediation for lead based paint on most projects. Ms. Vance shared photos with the committee of two projects: 1509 Emerson and 1722 Darrow, showing photos of kad paint damage before and after remediation. Ms. Vance said that the City's budget has repairs/painting assistance program, particularly in Sanitation Department. She said that at one time, would remove wood pieces if they were cut also impacted the minor terms of dealing with the the Sanitation Department Homing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 18, 2003 Page 3 up and bundled together. Now that serve is no longer available. The program is on a restricted budget and cannot afford to incur additional costs beyond the actual project repair. This is something that Kill be closely reviewed during the next program year. With labor being one of the highest costs of a project, the homeowner may have to pick up more of the cost of disposing of materials. .mother challenge for staff is to try to conduct assessments on a home in a way so that it does not get involved in a lead abatement situation. Having to remediate rn - "- lly co,' '—t time to a project Ms. Vance discussed one of the Pr ae said that after the project had been completed, �rs�e�:^: :: • .::he surrounding ground area for lead. If there are lead P_.-........1 �a: L. V.•c� - - - I',- nu: Sown around the affected area. In ,;..: u.'•� ���► r,�%y >.div %%iii not he nhi Of these types of situations. _alth Department received ,asuM %.riot; C-illtvi Wit+ i+r "mt- w --rrT n! the expenses of lead testing. Ti:: :zajor;:, of j�;t�i��.,ics .,- �: "r:.:ti::u each ycar are owned by senior citizens, who are be: ••: 30% o: income. Many of them live in older hnuci-- ' Aid. Rainey said that CLL,.. -:eighbors at Work was not intended to be the City's lead agency on lead based paint. Ms. Vance said that she would like to direct affected properties to other resources, because Neighbors at Work cannot absorb the additional costs for lead testing and remo«l. Ms. Vance was asked whether her crews have encountered asbestos in any of their projects. She said that, so far, they had not. She said that the lead training classes include a section on identifying asbestos. Aid. Rainey suggested that Neighbors at Work form a committee to review all upcoming projects and evaluate which ones would get the "biggest bang for the buck". Ms. Vance said that not all applications for assistance are accepted, such as a request for new flooring. She said that staff makes referrals to the City's Housing Rehab office for projects which are outside the scope of sern►ices for the Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance program. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Vance if she was familiar with the City's Red Box program, which is provided by the Sanitation Department at no cost. When the cmws are finished with a project, they can call the Sanitation Department and request delivery of a red box, which is a small dumpster. The work crew fills up the box and has the Sanitation Department remove it at the end of the day. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —February 18, 2003 Page 4 Citv of Evanston: Adopt a Fancy Can. CDBG Administration. Neighborhood Facade Program Sally Lufkin discussed the three programs administered by the City's Planning Division. The Adopt a Fancy Can program has been extremely successful — all fifteen cans have been adopted. There are some funds left in the program, which will be combined with the 2003/04 grant to purchase approximately 18-20 fancy cans for adoption in the coming year. CDBG Administration is within budget. The City's One Year Action Plan for 2003104 has been submitted to HUD and the City is awaiting approval of it and release of funds. She added that the City is still waiting to leam its actual 2003 CDBG allocation. The omnibus funding bill, which covered 2003 funding for HUD and other federal agencies, is out the Congressional conference and ready for adoption by the full House. The 2003 CDBG program will be funded at an increased level of S27 million. Ms. Lufkin said that she is confident that the estimated funding figure of $2,410,000 for 2003104 will work out. David Schoenfeld asked whether 2000 census data had been factored into the CDBG allocation formula Ms. Lufkin replied that several months ago, grantees received information on bow much their 2002 CDBG allocations would have been, if 2000 census data had been used in the formula. She said that Evanston would have received 52.,,410,000, or $11,000 more than the actual 2002 funding of $2,399,000. In some communities, there would have been a loss of funding (from the previous year). Aid. Rainey asked when the City would receive block group income data. Ms. Lufkin replied that that information should come out this year. Ms. Lufkin discussed the procedure for the City to receive its HUD funding. Ms. Lufkin said that the City has customarily paid all the CDBG bills out of the General Fund After the close of the month, the amount charged to CDBG is drawn down from the letter of credit the City has with HUD via the IRIS system. At the close of each business day, all requests for reimbursement are processed by the IDIS system and an electronic funds transfer is made to the City's account. Ms. Lufkin said that the City could draw down funds in advance to spending them. However, the requirement is that the funds must be spent within three days after they are drawn. David Schoenfeld wondered what the lag time was between spending funds from the City's General Fund for CDBG expenditures and then requesting reimbursement from HUD. He Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 18, 2003 Page 5 discussed the approximately one month lag time between when the CDBG bills are paid and when the City receives reimbursement for them from its letter of credit. He wondered much interest is lost each month following this procedure. Ms. Lufkin said that she would investigate the funding/payment procedure and report on it to the Committee. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked how frequently the overall CDBG allocation formula is updated. Ms. Lufkin responded that it is revised after each census. The next adjustment will probably be after the 2010 census. Ms. Lufkin said that the balance of the downtown storefront program funds had been expended recently to install new awnings over three businesses in the University Building, located on the northwest corner of Chicago and Davis Ms. Lufkin discussed the prior rehabilitation project on this building, which took place about five years ago. She said that staff: approved installation of the new awnings, as they would add a finishing touch to the overall appearance of the building. The three tenants have paid for the installation of the awnings and will be reimbursed for 50% of those costs. In addition to spending the balance of funds in the downtown storefront program, some funds from the neighborhood storefront program were used. The balance of funds in that program is approximately 547,000 , with $20,000 committed to the Main Street Metra facade renovation. Ms. Lufkin said that there are also economic development funds which may be used for neighborhood fagade projects. Ms. Lufkin discussed the history of the establishment of the downtown storefront improvement program, which was funded after CDBG staff conducted a detailed field survey of the buildings in the downtown business district. It was determined from the survey that approximately 31 % of the facades met the state's criteria for determining that an area was considered blighted. The survey and program were established a number of years before the City undertook the large streetscape renovation of the downtown. She also clarified the criteria for approval of a facade renovation project and how the CDBG Target Area had been determined. Ald. Rainey reminded staff that the committee would like to review applications for facade projects before they are approved for funding. Representative from Family Focus, School District 65, and the Westside Citizens District Council did not appear and will be scheduled for an upcoming meeting. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 18, 2003 Page 6 IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Corrected Committee Meeting Schedule for 2003 Ald. Bernstein made a motion to approve the corrected meeting schedule. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld and approved, vote 6-0. B. Staff memorandum on federal 2003 budget C. Letter from Family Focus Evanston Auxiliary Council D. Evanston Housing Commission: Information from January 2003 meeting packet E. Article from Chicago CAREgiver Magazine "Crimes Against the Elderly" F. HUD News: - HUD announces higher FHA home loan limits to help more American families become homeowners - HUD announces FY 2004 proposed budget of $41.3biliion to increase homeownership, promote affordable housing and strengthen communities - Building the American Dream: HUD Accomplishments 2001-2002 - Rebuilding community. A tool kit for historic preservation and neighborhood redevelopment - Urban Land Sample: January 2003 — Mayors' Forum: The Housing Dividend G. Newspaper Articles. - Housing prices may cool in U.K,. Some fear Bush tax plan timu ttris affordability - At median price, Chicago offers a mix of options - Assisted living opens up to low-income seniors - Rule blocks HUD effort to limit closing markups - Nevada residents joining movement to halt growth - Service finds housemates for seniors Brooklyn enclave remains affordable - What's up on housing in Congress - Suburban sprawl's sticker shock - When counseling actually hurts Low interest rates push seniors into reverse loans - Will Kane's 2030 plan tame growth? - Aging changes the face of suburbia Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — February 18, 2003 Page 7 - Concerted effort begins to push green building - Aurora: housing program may come to halt - Aurora may grant S3.3 million for rehabs - Attend classes, get your downpayment - "Nothing down" sticking around - Defining accessible and more - Keeping track of rapidly growing towns - Elgin pushes image, banks on diversity - California counties unite to plan growth - East St. Louis officials unveil S70 million housing plan - Air' • :aces more scrutiny Accepted into the 1,•. A",d. Rainey. Ald. Bern,t.-�•. :he Co:nrnittee on the first meeting of the Housing Commission's Inclusionary Tait The d',cussion is being facilitated by Business in the Public Interest. Ald. Rainey reported on a meeting she and John Barner convened with the homeless community to discuss issues and service gaps among that community in mid -January. Connections for the Homeless, Evanston Township and the Youth Job Center had representatives at the meeting. Sally Lufkin reported to the Committee that the City had received information on its timeliness calculation from HUD, which is 1.27%. She explained that the timeliness calculation is done 60 days before the end of a grantee's program year and needs to be 1.50•./6 or less. A granter is to have no more than one and one-half times its unexpended entitlement (1.50%) funds on hand when this calculation is done in order to be considered timely. For Evanston, that meant that the 2002 funding amount of S2,399,000 was used and Evanston's funds on hand at the 60 day mark were 1.27 times $2,399,000. The City is well within compliance with the timeliness standard. The timeliness figure will be factored in the analysis of the City's 2002/03 CAPER VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Staff: ` ze!Kj r� u v Date: March 11, 2003 t N vr'Fr- WpT- APp•2vcry HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, March 18, 2003 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Lisa James STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: John Barner Williams, First Base; John Turner, Family Focus; Sue Carlson, David Jennings, Public Works Department; Lomtha Henry, Westside Citizens District Council PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present I1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY IS, 2003 MEETING David Schoenfelt made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 18, 2003 meeting; the motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 7-0. III. PROGRAM/PROJECT UPDATES FROM CDBG GRANTEES Family Focus John Turner, Executive Director of Family Focus, reported on the entry stairway project, which was completed with a S 16,000 CDBG grant for 2002/03. Because of severe deterioration, the existing concrete stairs had to be torn out and new concrete stairs were constructed and handrails installed. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 18, 2003 Page 2 Mr. Turner discussed other capital needs for the Family Focus building, which is approximately 100 years old. Future projects include replacement of the roof to remedy leaking throughout the building and theater. Another project will be installation of the elevator and staff has been actively seeking funds for the elevator. Family Focus also needs to replace the sidewalk in front of the building and elevate the new sidewalk to meet ADA requirements and replace all the doors in the building to comply with fire safety regulations. Mr. Turner also discussed the need to make the theater accessible; the plan is to build a ramp, which will go from the stage down to the theater seating area. The theater will no longer be used by the City's Recreation Department, so Family Focus will be able to rent it to community and other groups. Mr. Turner thanked the Committee for its funding support for the capital needs of the Family Focus building. In response to a question about the status of rental spaces in the building, Mr. Tttiner replied that the building is fatly occupied with the exception of the theater. Family Focus is currently negotiating for other tenants for the theater area. Because of economics, another tenant, the Children's School, will be closing at the end of the year. This small private school was operated by an individual; it currently had 5 elementary age students, and had been funded out of pocket by the owner for the past year. At its peak, the school had about 15 students per year. School District 65 Sally Lufkin distributed a letter from Don Stevenson, Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds at School District 65, in which the King Lab and Dewey school playground projects were discussed. Both playgrounds were renovated in the summer 2002. Ms. Lufkin also passed around several photographs which were taken of the completed King Lab School playground. $150,000 in CDBG funds was allocated to the two projects ($80,000 for King Lab and $70,000 for Dewey School). Total budgets for the two playgrounds were $198,000 and $150,000. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Lufkin to confirm whether School District 65 spent $150,000 of its own funds on each playground. She said that the special referendum directed that $150,000 of school district funds would be expended for each playground. Ald. piney said that when the CDBG grants were awarded, it was the Committee's intention that the CDBG funds serve to supplement and enhance each playground project. The school district was to use its $150,000 per playground first and then use CDBG funds. David Schoenfeld said that he knew that the PTA organizations for both schools had to raise additional funds for each project. Ald. Rainey asked Sally Lufkin to check with the school district on this matter. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —March 18, 2003 Page 3 Ald. Rainey asked whether future school playground projects would be eligible for CDBG assistance. Ms. Lufkin said that schools located in areas where the low/moderate income data of the surrounding neighborhood met HUD's minimum threshold for eligibility could be eligible for future CDBG funding. Discussion continued about the possibility of funding a playground renovation project at Oakton School. Currently Oakton School is not located in the CDBG Target Area, but could possibly be part of a new Target Area, which will be determined in the coming months using 2000 census and income data. Westside Citizens District Council Aid. Kent and Loretha Henry, president of the Westside CitizensDistrict Council, discussed the status of the renovation of the 1817 Church Sued building for the Black American Heritage House. Some construction has begun and/or been completed in the past few months. There was no heat and electricity in the building for an extended period of time and problems arose when one of the water pipes burst during the winter months. The moisture caused the paint to peel and fall off the walls. This past summer Aid. Kent and several youth cleaned out a lot of the debris in the building, filling two dumpsters. An Evanston minority contractor, Rick Hammell, has been hired by the District Council for the building renovation. About two weeks ago a 5 ton HVAC unit was installed on the second floor rear roof. It will control the heat and air conditioning for the first and second floors. An additional unit will be installed on the third floor roof to heat/air condition the third floor. Total cost of this project was approximately $7,000. There have been problems with abandoned and other authorized vehicles being parked behind 1817 Church. The contractor has consulted with Carlos Ruiz, Preservation Coordinator for the City, on window replacements for the front of the building. The 1817 Church building front exterior is listed on the City's listing of historic properties, so any work on this portion of the building must be in compliance with the City's preservation requirements. Mr. Ruiz referred Mr. Hammell to a window restoration business and met with the contractor to discuss the proposed project. It will be necessary for the contractor to remove the windows and restore them at his shop and then reinstall the windows. The openings will be boarded up during this process. The estimate for the window restoration is approximately $9,000. The fast floor lobby is probably in the best condition of all of the rooms in the building. Rick Hammell will begin renovation on the first floor, malting the washrooms usable, upgrading electrical systems and creating office space on the first floor. In addition to the S157,000 awarded to the District Council in CDBG funds, $2,500 has been Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 18, 2003 Page 4 raised privately to date. Because full funding for the entire building renovation project has not yet been obtained it will be necessary to do the renovation in phases, as funds are available. It is estimated that the first floor of the building will be completed by June, which will contain the offices and the Heritage House Museum. A library is planned for the third floor and classrooms and computer rooms Will be located on the second floor. Aid. Kent said that Rick Hammell is also serving as "point man" on the project. He is located in Evanston and is able to meet with the various subcontractors during the week, when either himself or Bettye Palmer are unable to meet. Public Works Department David Jennings, Public Works Director, reported on the 2002 Curb/Sidewalk Replacement program, alley paving, accessible curb ramp program and street light upgrade. In order to get the best prices, the curb/sidewalk and accessible curb ramp programs were combined into one bid package. F&G Cement Contractors was awarded the bid and the project has been completed. Forty-nine ADA ramps were completed; 5,175 linear feet of curbing and 10,000 square feet of sidewalk were replaced. This work was for locations within the CDBG Target Area. Non -Target Area locations are funded through the City's regular MFT resurfacing program. One alley was paved in 2002, located between Lake and Greenwood Streets, next to King Lab School. This alley was selected for CDBG assistance, because of the likelihood of the alley not to be funded through the City's alley paving special assessment assistance program. School District 65 paid for half of the cost to pave the alley. Cost of the project was less than the usual cost of alley paving projects (577,400) because draining structures had previously been installed. (An alley paving project usually costs SI20,000 or more.) In the 2003/04 program year, the alley adjacent to the CTA right of way north of Howard Street will be done with CDBG funding. Mr. Jennings distributed copies of a report on the City's street light upgrade program, which he had prepared for the A&PW Committee. The Tallmadge light poles will be retained and the electrical systems changed to induction lighting. The project will be completed over a three year period. He said that the City Council had recently approved the first phase of the project. Mr. Jennings discussed the induction lighting system, which is commonly used in Europe. Lighting units had to be shipped to Belgium for testing. Hinman Avenue between South Blvd. and Keeney, a small test area, has already been completed with the change to induction street lamps. The light upgrades will take place in both Target Area and non -Target Area locations. City workers will do the installation; CDBG (and City) funds will be used only to purchase the new light fixtures. In addition to changing the light fixture, the crews will also do other maintenance to the street lights. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 18, 2003 Page 4 IV. APPROVAL OF REVISED CDBG PROGRAM BUDGET FOR FY 2003/04 Ms. Lufkin discussed the staff memorandum regarding the City's notification from HUD of Evanston's actual funding awards for the 2003/04 CDBG program (as well as 2003/04 funding for the City's HOME and ESG programs). She said that actual 2003 funding for the CDBG program ($2,409,00) %%-as only $1,000 less than she had estimated. Ms. Lufkin proposed reducing the CDBG Administration budget from $333,000 to S332,00 in order to bring the 2003/04 CDBG program budget into agreement with the actual HUD allocation. David Schoenfeld asked if the "caps' on the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories were affected by the $1,000 reduction in 2003/04 CDBG funding. Ms. Lufkin said that both categories were not affected and that, in fact, the Committee had not funded either category up to its maximum allowed level, so reductions were not needed. Ald. Berstein made a motion to amend the 2003/04 CDBG program with the recommended change to the CDBG Administration allocation and to recommend approval by the City Council. The motion was seconded by Kenneth Rodgers and approved by the Committee (vote 7-0). V. COMMUNICATIONS A. Staff' Memorandum on CDBG Drawdown Procedure B. 40 Quarter Reports on CDBG Projects (December '02 — February '03) C. NCDA Washington Report for February 28, 2003 D. NCDA Analysis of HUD's Proposed Rule in Faith -Based Organizations Participating in HUD programs E. Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads Council Annual Report 2002 F. Newspaper Articles - Will 26,709 square foot home blend in among California hills? - Cisneros developing affordable homes - Federal proposal would help first-time home buyers - Beware the bait and switch rate - Homebuilders fight the multifamily stereotype - Mr. Fed casts bit of a shadow on housing - Affordable rental market shrinking - Agency expands shelter services; Skokie site to open for mothers, kids Ald. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. She noted receipt of the 0 quarter reports from grantees and recommended that the Committee read them. She thought several of the reports were very well written. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —March 18, 2003 Page S V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Ms. Lufkin requested that the Committee's May meeting be moved up a week to May 13a'. At that meeting, the Committee will review the City's CAPER (Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report) for the 2002/03 program year. The Committee will also hold a Public Hearing on the 2002/03 CAPER to receive public comment It is necessary to reschedule the Committee's meeting because the CAPER also, has to be reviewed and approved by the City Council and the second Council meeting in May will be on the 19 . The CAPER is due to HUD by the end of May. John Barner Williams thanked the Committee for its interest in the First Base program and announced that the program was now operating from Fisher Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church at 944 Elmwood. VIL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Staid /� MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for April 2003 has been canceler. The next meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for July 15, 2003 at 7:30 p m. in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for May 2003 has been canceled The next meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for July 15, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. in Room 2403 in the Civic Center, PIekFT--. !✓a 7T HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: CHAIR: STAFF PRESENT: CALL TO ORDER Tuesday, June 17, 2003 7:30 P.M. - Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center Aid. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James Aid. Rainey, David Schoenfeld, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers Aid. Rainey Dennis Marino, Mary Baaske Aid. Rainey noting a quorum was present, called the meeting to order at 7:44 p.m. CONSIDERATION OF 2002-03 CAPER REPORT (DRAFT) Aid. Rainey explained that this meeting was to review the Comprehensive Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the use of all the money received for 2002-2003 from HUD and how the funds were expended to CD, HOME, and the Emergency Shelter Grant. Aid. Rainey asked Dennis Marino if when a public hearing is held, a public notice is sent to all of last year's applicants notifying them. Mr. Marino replied that the Planning Division maintains a mailing list of all applicants and interested parties and they are sent a notice. He added that there is also a notice placed in the newspaper. Betty Ester said that while she has not reviewed the current CAPER, in the past the CAPER has always included housing. She hoped that there was a part of this CAPER that addressed helping people below the 5001c or 80% of median income. Ms. Ester distributed copies of her letter to Aid. Rainey and the Housing and Community Development Act Committee. This letter concerned the Citizens Lighthouse Community Land Trust (CLCLT) and how it can create and sustain affordable housing in Evanston. Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes - June 17.2003 Pace Two Mr. Marino drew the Committee's attention to page 8 of the CAPER and said that it is that part of the report that deals with the issue that Ms. Ester raised, particularly as it relates to different income groups within need. There is a HUD requirement that this is done in the CAPER and has been done every year. The group of people that are within the 3 1 % to 50% of median income have been very difficult for the City to serve. However, with the completion of the Claridge project at 319 Dempster the City had one of its best years in partnering with others to meet that income group. The 38 units in single room occupancy housing were rehabbed to very high standards. The senior housing built by Jacob Blake will also address part of that group as well. The most difficult population to address is the 0% to 30% of median family income, but it is addressed by various shelter programs, the over 1000 Section 8 holders, and in part through the Claridge project. Page 17 and 18 of the CAPER address homelessness. On page 11 and 22 there is a detailed discussion of 319 Dempster and how City money in concert with many other financial institutions and tax credits made that particular rehab project possible. Pam Thomas, Director of Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services thanked the Committee for their ongoing suppo.t The money received from this Committee enables them to have a case manager full time in Evanston. It also gives them a presence at Primm Tower, Levy Center and Fleetwood Jourdain. Lisa Thomas asked for a graph showing 50%, 800/c, etc of median. Mr. Marino stated that he had that information and would send it to her. David Schoenfeld moved approval of recommending the CAPER to City Council. Motion seconded by Ald. Bernstein. Motion passed 6-0. On behalf of the Committee, Aid. Rainey Sent best wishes to Sally Lufkin. There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at 8:06 p.m. Respectfully submitted � We"z", 4NN-01 , 0 " 3 . i' HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE 13 1WJIJI _ Tuesday, July 15, 2003 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Rainey, Aid. Berstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Lisa James, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Kent STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Nancy Flowers, Linda Cooper, Commission on Aging; Sandi Johnson, Pamela Thomas, North Shore Senior Center, Sue Carlson; Betty Sue Ester PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m., a quorum being present II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 18 AND JUNE 179. 2003 MEETINGS Ald. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 18 and June 17, 2003 meetings; the motion was seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Motion pried, 7-0. II1. 2004/05 CDBG PROGRAM — NEEDS HEARING AND PROPOSED SCHEDULE FOR 2004/05 APPLICATION/FUNDING PERIOD A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- July 15, 2003 Page 2 B. Needs Hearing — Public Comment Ald. Rainey opened the Public Hearing. Pamela Thomas, Evanston Skokie Vallev Senior Services, a satellite office of the North Shore Senior Center in Evanston, spoke on behalf of the very poor elderly residents which are served by the (CDBG funded) case manager. She said that the majority of the clients visited by the case manager are homebound and stressed the importance of the services of the case manager in enabling seniors to remain independent yet receive essential services. Linda Cooper, Commission on Aeing,_said that she was chair of the Commission's Housing Committee, and the Committee is concerned about the number of foreclosures in Evanston over the past few years and also about the number of persons who are falling prey to predatory lenders. While she understands that the City government cannot solve all situations, she urged it to support programs which help to address these housing issues, particularly for seniors. Ald. Rainey said that the Committee would welcome any proposals for addressing predatory lending. She pointed out that the Committee was in a position to respond to the applications submitted and urged the Commission on Aging or another community organization to submit a proposal on ways to address predatory lending and avoid foreclosures. Bettv Sue Ester spoke about housing issues and said that she is part of a group, which is in the process of examining the use of a community land trust as a vehicle to use in affordable housing projects. She said that the group may be in a position to apply for 2004/05 funding. Ms. Ester also spoke about a proposal by the President to reduce funding to the Housing Choice voucher (formerly Section 8) program and how such a proposal would only make affordable housing much more difficult for lower income families. Sandra Blake said that she this was her fast time attending this meeting. She said that she is with an interfaith organization which has a program for at risk youth ages 8-16 as well as a pamnt/teen program. Sue Carlson spoke in support of housing and especially affordable housing. She said that a housing group she is involved with is planning a forum on October 23, 2003 to present to the community some of the issues about how Evanston night be able to solve affordable housing in Evanston, including Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 15, 2003 Page 3 use of land mists, inclusionary zoning, establishing an aff%rdable housing trust fund. She said that she has also been attending the Inelusionary Task Force meetings. Aid. Rainey acknowledged receipt of written communications from the Evanston Community Defender's Office, CEDA/Neighbors at Worst and Evanston: Day Nursery. At this time, the Public Hearing was closed. C. Staff memorandum re 20D4/05 CDBG Schedule and Procedures Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to accept the proposed 2004/05 CDBG fiwding cycle schedule; the motion wus seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste and the motion was approved 7-0. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. NCDA Washington Reports for June 2 and June 19, 2003 B. HUD's Proposed FY 2004 Budget — Executive Summary C. Newspaper Articles - Energy -efficient mortgages now electronic - U.S. should help unite housing industry, says report - IX'ill retailers be the next mortgage bankers and brokers? - A new mortgage wrinkle: A loan that moves with you - Mayors bash Bush voucher plan - Loan illustrates complexity of mixed -income housing - Housing shortage nationwide for the disabled, study find - Modular homes gain as "affordable" option - Cities seize privately owned land - HUD rules aim to end "flipping" - Prices for housing still in upward spiral - A gateway to affordability Aid. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 15, 2003 Page 4 V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Ms. Lufldn asked if the Committee could reschedule its August meeting for August 12a' instead of August 10. She said that she will present for the Committee's review several proposals for reconfiguring the CDBG Target Area based on 2000 census and income data She said that the reason she wantod the meeting a week earlier than scheduled was to be able to distribute to applicants for 2004/05 CDBG funds an updated Target Area map. The updated map could affect some applications which use the CDBG Target Area as the service area for their projects. The Committee agreed to reschedule its meeting for August 12, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. VL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business befog -thee Committee, the meeting mourned at 9:05 pm. Staff: Date: 3 HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, August 12, 2003 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Ald. Bernstein, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Kent, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair Prior to the meeting, Committee members were given a tour and demonstration of the Fire Department's new Fire Safety House. The Fire Safety House was purchased with S22,000 in 2002103 CDBG funds along with funds allocated to the project by the Foreign Fire Tax Board. The size of a trailer, the Fire Safety House is used for fur safety educational programs for childm showing them how to escape a smoke filled room and what to do in emergencies. A demonstration of a tornado emergency was simulated I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:43 p.m., a quorum being present II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MARCH 18 AND JUNE 17, 2003 MEETINGS Aid. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the July 15, 2003 meeting; the motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 5-0. IN T-1„ Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 12, 2003 Page 2 III. CONSIDERATION' OF REVISIONS TO THE CDBG TARGET AREA USING 2000 CENSUS A,\D LOWIMODERATE INCOME DATA FROM HUD Sally Lufkin discussed the various maps and how HUD's exception criteria is determined. First she explained what is meant by "area benefit" . Ms. Lufkin said that when the City is using the CDBG Target Area to determine whether a project is eligible for CDBG funding, it is using the "area benefit" designation. For instance, when determining whether a playground is eligible for CDBG assistance, the low/moderate income data of the area surrounding the playground are reviewed to determine whether the area to be served by the playground meets HUD's low/moderate income threshold. The normal percentage used in determining "area benefit" eligibility is 51% (low/moderate income). Evanston has been designated as an "exception community", which means that it can use a percentage lower than 51% to determine "area benefit" designation eligibility. For the past ten years, Evanston's percentage level has been 41.99%. With the receipt of the 2000 census data, Evanston's exception percentage is now 50.3%. Ms. Lufkin referred to a listing of Evanston census block groups from the highest low/moderate income percentage census block group to the lowest. To find where the exception percentage is, the top quartile of block groups is determined and the percentage of the last block group in the quartile determines the exception percentage. The Target Area does not necessarily have to be contiguous. However, it has been the City's practice to include as many census block groups as possible in the CDBG Target Area in order to be able to take advantage of CDBG funding for "area benefit" activities. Ms. Lufkin discussed the maps in the Committee's packet and how to read the identifier numbers in each census tract block group. She said that there were not many choices in the way the new Target Area map can be configured, if the maximum possible area is to be used for a target area. Committee members expressed dissatisfaction with including the downtown business district census tract and Northwestern University areas in the target area, as those areas have experienced a lot of higher income development in recent years. Ald. Bernstein asked whether the Committee could use parts of block groups, instead of whole block groups (in determining eligible areas). Ms. Lufkin said that the census data is reported at the block group level and now broken down into individual blocks, so that the entire block group would have to be used. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Lufkin to thank Mark Varner from GIS for the excellent maps. She asked that the streets and ward boundaries be added to the maps and that the discussion of the new Target Area be continued to the Committee's next meeting. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —August 12, 2003 Page 3 IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Housing Options Homejront Summer 2003 Newsletter B. HUD News: - Mi Casa program to increase minority homeownership in America - Martinez and Chao announce S 13.5 million to provide permanent housing and jobs to chronically homeless individuals - HUD announces initiative to focus on reducing regulatory barriers - HUD's Field Works publication for May/June 2003 - Urban Research Monitor Is Housing Discrimination Diminishing? C. Newspaper Articles - Forget the cocoon -- we now live in hives - Targeting Hispanic borrowers - From hotel to home — YMCAs become a force in affordable housing - Home -buying assistance spreads among employers - How some employer housing plans work - New Law adds weapons in predatory lending fight - Booming S.W. Suburbs line up for recounts Aid. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. V. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT There was no staff/citizen comment. VI, ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Staff: Date: HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, September 16, 2003 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Kent, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Bernstein, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Luflcin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Frank Kaminski; Mimi Peterson, Judy Jager, Kasen Bond, Sam Thomas, Lain Wood, Charlene Moss, Crown Paris Neighbors PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m., a quorum being pmsent U. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 12, 2003 MEETING Ald. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's August 12, 2003 meeting; the motion was seconded by Aid. Kent. Motion carried, 54. III. REQUEST FOR EVANSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE SECURITY CAMERAS Sally Lufldn made a correction to her memorandum about the security cameras. She said that in the memorandum she wrote that this matter was being brought to the Committee at the recommendation of Ald. Bernstein and Ald. Jean -Baptiste. She added that she did not intend to infer that the two aldermen were in support of the cameras, just bringing the request to the full Housing & Community Development Act Committee. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 16, 2003 Page 2 Chief Frank Kaminski, Evanston Police Department, said that he became aware that there were some funds available in the CDBG Neighborhood Public Improvement fund and the possibility of purchasing at least one security camera from the approximately S30,000 available in that fund. He discussed a proposal for the purchase of three security cameras (Simpson/Darrow, Church/Dodge and MabvlWge) and an extension arm for the Custer/Howard camera. He discussed the use of security cameras in neighborhoods as a tool in crime prevention. The cameras at Custer/Howard and Simpson/Dewey have helped reduce criminal activities in those areas. The cameras were installed with support from area residents. Costs are from the vendor which was used to purchase and install the previous cameras. The reason the cost is more for these cameras is because the installer will have to bore underground to connect each camera to a based station. Ald. Rainey discussed a fiber optic agreement the City has with Northwestern University to wire all City buildings. She said that the installation will take a year, but the installer of the fiber optic cables will be boring in the same areas, i.e., Crown Center, Levy Center. Ald. Rainey said that at the last 911 meeting, she asked whether other things could be laid in the tunnel or trenches at the same time and was given an affirmative answer. She suggested that the Chief look into the possibility of "hitching" on with the fiber optic cable installation for the security cameras. This way the CDBG funding will go further and perhaps several more cameras could be purchased if the City did not have to pay for boring. Regarding the arm extension requested for the Custer/Howard camera, Ald. Rainey said that because of the location of the pole on which the camera has been installed, the Chicago side of Howard Street appears very well, while it is difficult to see up and down Howard Street on Evanston's side. David Schoenfeld asked whether the S24,169 in Neighborhood Public Improvements was the only money which is available for this purchase. Ms. Lufkin responded that the $24,169 was all the funds remaining in the Neighborhood Public Improvements fund Mr. Schoenfeld noted that the Committee could approve the purchase of the Main/Dodge camera (S21,102) and the Custer extension arm ($2,500); there is not enough funds on hand to purchase the cameras at Church/Dodge and Simpson/Darrow at this time. Chief Kaminski said that he has prepared an application for 2004/05 CDBG funding for the cameras and will adjust the amount requested, depending on the Committee's decision about using the Neighborhood Public Improvement funds. Karen Bond, 920 Dodge, spoke about the nature of the hearing and notification process to the neighbors. She said that she learned that discussion of the cameras would take place at this meeting at 5:30 — 6:00 p.m. today. She said that Mimi had called and suggested that she come to this meeting and support the purchase of the cameras. Ms. Bond said that the neighbors have Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —September 16, 2003 Page 3 been meeting with Chief Kaminski every other month since last August to discuss activity at Main/Dodge and not once has installation of a camera on the corner been mentioned. She said that was a purposeful and intentional way of deceiving community activists so that people will not know what is really taking place. Ald. Rainey explained that the Housing & Community Development Act Committee meets on the third Tuesday of every month, that these are regularly scheduled meetings and that the agenda for each meeting varies from month to month. She said that if there is an issue in the neighborhood group, the Committee is not involved in the matter. Ms. Bond said that, as a concerned citizen, she has been involved in community affairs in Chicago and Evanston. She said that if she had known the cameras were going to be discussed at this meeting, she would have prepared a written statement. She said that she is aghast the City is contemplating installation of cameras. She spoke about the invasion of privacy by cameras, as well as other problems such as loud stereos and people walking through her property. She said that this issue should have been discussed community wide before bringing it to the Committee. Ms. Bond said that the situation at Main and Dodge can be controlled without the use of security cameras and thought that intervention on the part of the Police Department rather that arrest after a law is broken would be preferable. She discussed several instances where the Police Department could have intervened in a neighborhood matter. She remembered camera discussions relating to parking lot cameras for the 7-11 and Walgreen's lots. Chief Kaminski said that he had attended several meetings at Crown Center and met over the past year with Crown Park neighbors regarding issues with Main and Dodge. Cameras have been a part of the discussions: how to fund the purchase, where to locate it, what resources are available. The Chief added that he has always looked at cameras as a tool for police work, not the answer to a problem. Mimi Peterson said that discussions about security cameras have been discussed for some time by Crown Park neighbors. Ald. Jean -Baptiste suggested tabling this item because of the controversy. He suggested that the proponents for the camera convene a community meeting to detcnnine whether there is community support for installing a security camera at Main/Dodge. He said that, philosophically, hers against using cameras, but is in support of increased security in the neighborhood. If the community believes that installation of a camera would be helpful as a police tool, then he will consider whether to support the matter. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that he would also like to hear the Chief's reasons for a camera at Church and Dodge. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 16, 2003 Page 4 Charlene Ross, who lives at Lee and Florence, said that she too is philosophically against cameras, but has experienced the protection cameras provide. She discussed her experience in Memphis, where cameras have been present for many years, and the police response when she w-as bothered by someone. Sam Thomas, 803 Dodge one and one-half blocks south of Main and Dodge, discussed an incident last summer that moved from one side of Dodge to the other. He said that he looks at cameras as a deterrent. Chief Kaminski said that one of the issues is whether statistics warrant the installation of a camera at Main and Dodge. The other issue is the importance of peoples' perceptions and how the appearance of a camera can make people feel more secure. There is definitely hanging out at this intersection and robberies. Ms. Bond said that a better use for the $24,000 in CDBG funds would be to hire additional police officers for the neighborhood. Ald. Jean Baptiste made a motion that the Housing & Community Development Act Committee recommends that the proponents of the security camera try to engage other community members in a discussion about the use of a security camera at Main and Dodge and come back to the Committee with a report on the consensus of the community. Ald. Jean -Baptiste added that the $24,I69 in CDBG Neighborhood Public Improvement funds be held in reserve for security issues in the Main/Dodge neighborhood. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. He also asked that a motion be made to authorize the purchase of the extension arm for 52,500 for the Custer/Howard camera. Motion carried, 5-0. Ald. Rainey said that the report from the community will take place at the next Committee meeting, which is scheduled for October 21, 2003. She said that the community report wi11 take place from 6:30 — 7:00 p.m., before the Committee begins its review of CDBG applications. Chief Kaminski offered to demonstrate the Custer/Howard camera to show bow the camera works and the type of image it captures. The camera is not monitored; he said that the recording tape runs for 24 hours and will record over the existing tape, if it is not saved. Lisa James made a motion to authorize the purchase of the extension arm for the Custer/Howard camera at a cost of $2,500. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld and approved by the Committee, 5-0. to Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —September 26, 2003 Page S Aid. Kent suggested that some kind of written record of the community discussion be made. Aid. Rainey suggested that community members be in%ited to the camera demonstration, have a "for" and "against" list for people to sign, and invite the three aldermen to the meeting. IV. CONSIDERATION OF REVISIONS TO THE CDBG TARGET AREA USING 2000 CENSUS AND LOW/MODERATE INCOME DATA FROM HUD Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Lufkin to find out when the City needed to decide on its new target area. She said that she would get a clarification from HUD. Aid. Kent asked if Ms. Lufkin could also find out why the Northwestern students are included in the census count. Discussion ensued on the census block groups which have high low/moderate income percentages because of the student population. David Schoenfeld suggested that Proposal 3 be considered for the Target Area and include the block group bounded by Foster north to Noyes and from Sherman west to Ridge. He said that housing code inspections are needed in the university housing areas and thought that including this census block would be important to ensure housing code services. Adding this block group will not adversely affect the low/moderate income threshold for the City of 50.3%. David Schoenfeld suggested adopting proposal 3, adding census block 8093002. Discussion continued about adding the census block that includes Oakton School, which has a low/moderate income percentage of 17.7%. Ald. Rainey said that that block group is very wealthy, with the exception of Oakton School, which has a playground in the worst condition of all of School District 55's playgrounds. Oakton School has a student population from the poorest sections of the City. Aid. Rainey asked whether there would be any way to fund the application for Oakton School without including the census block in which it is located. Ms. Lufkin said that she would discuss this matter with HUD. Ald. Rainey asked that maps with major street names could be made for the Committee. Ms. Lufkin said that she would ask GIS to make the changes to the maps and distribute new maps to the Committee. V. COMMUNICATIONS A. Connections for the Homeless Fall 2003 Newsletter B. Housing Opportunity Development Corporation Summer 2003 Newsletter C. Evanston Housing Commission Minutes for June 19, 2003 D. Inclusionary Housing Task Force Notes for July 24, 3004 E. NCDA Washington Reports dated August 1 and September 10, 2003 F. HUD: Building the American Dream: HUD Accomplishments Fact Sheet for 2001 /02 Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —September 16, 2003 Page 6 G. HUD Moves to Shut Down Fraudulent Land Sales H. Newspaper Articles: - Affordable housing law OKD — Highland Park puts requirement on developers - Study: Rents too high for low -wage earners - Simplifying closing rules is a complex subject - Mortgage loans still cost a lot — but what's the reason? - HUD triples staff, budget to probe closing abuses - Massachusetts sluggish in new permits - Reverse mortgages get good reception down ast - Rising rates may cut home's investment value - New theme park is not amusing — Habitat project hopes to educate - immigrants facing housing pinch - A Colorado trailer park blazes the affordable trail - Economy divides housing market - U.S. calls for fewer closing costs — HUD is spurred by coimpiaints from buyers - Shanghai to subsidize home loans - Deerfield puts limit on size of houses — village cites rash of teardowns - Affordable rentals in Greenwich? Connecticut law clears the way - Housing starts hit 17 year high, but clouds loom - Credit score time warp could threaten your mortgage - Task: Build a "green" home that's affordable - Shifting tastes — Builders start to rethink the slowly evolving design of the American home - Average house prices show no doom or gloom - Breaking away from the herd - Chicago now No. 10 on housing's most expensive list Ald. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. VL STAFFICiTiZEN COMMENT There was no staff/citizen comment. VI. ADdOUR MWNT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m. 6<�t' S�aa 3 taff: Date: v COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEETING MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: CHAIR: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: I. CALL TO ORDER Tuesday, October 21, 2003 6:30 P.M. - City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center Aid. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Ald. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld None Aid. Rainey Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske Aid. Rainey noted a quorum present and called the meeting to order at 7:24 p.m. II. STAFF MEMORANDUM ON ESTIMATED FUNDING FOR THE 2004105 CDBG PROGRAM. Sally Lufkin, Grants Administrator, stated that the Committee has received 52 applications for 2004/04 CDBG funds totaling $4,408,033. Estimated funds available will be $2,254,832. The requests overall will have to be reduced by $1,653,201. There are two categories where the City is limited by law in how much funding can be allocated: Administration/Planning at 20% and Public Services at 15%. Funds totaling S922,564 have been requested in the Public Services category; Public Services cap is a little under $400,000. In the Administrations category a reduction of about $68,000 is needed. She explained that calculations are based on estimates at this time. Of the 13 funding bills for the Federal Government, Congress has approved 4 and HUD's is not one of the four. The Federal Government is operating on a Continuing Resolution until the end of October. The House has approved funding for HUD that has a increase in recommended funding for the CDBG program. In the Senate, the bill is in the Appropriations Committee and it still has to be brought to the whole Senate for a vote. The City's lobbyist organization, National Community Development Organization, thinks the nine bills which have not yet been approved will probably be lumped together in an Omnibus Bill and there will be a conference committee to work out the differences between the House and the Senate versions of the bill. Ms. Lufkin said that she doesn't think that there will be an increase in Evanston's entitlement funding for 2004/05 which was $2,409,000 for this year. She said that now that the Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21, 2003 Pace 1 2000 census data has come out there are 57 new entitlement communities bringing the total to 1,087 jurisdictions that will participate in the CDBG program, 2 of which are in Illinois. This means that the funds designated for Illinois -►till be allocated between 42 jurisdictions instead of 40 jurisdictions as was done in past years. Ms. Lufkin stated that she had reviewed projects that had been completed or closed and there is a preliminary amount of S 145,533 left, which can be allocated to the 2004/05 program. She said she would give the Committee more details at the next meeting. She said that she had placed some handouts at the member's desk that have come out since the packet was distributed and also a few items she printed out related to some of the applications. ° = , III. 2003/04 CDBG PROGRAM AGENCY APPLICATION REVIEW A27 - Ridgeville Patric District/Reba Park Renovations Brian Rozinski, Director of Parks and Recreation at Ridgeville Park District, 847/869- 5640, 908 Seward Street, said the proposal being submitted is for S45,0W to renovate Reba Park. This would include new play equipment, resurface patch and add new standards to the basketball court, wood fiber surface for the fall zones around the play equipment, accessible water fountain, installation of equipment and a new perimeter fence that would go around the park. Aid. Rainey commended Mr. Rozinski's ability to stretch and make the money work. He explained that his staff does a lot of the work. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked Mr. Rozinski when Reba Park was last renovated. Mr. Rozinski replied that was done in 1988. Aid. Kent asked if Ridgeville Park District's employees could do some of the work and thereby lower their request. Mr. Rozinski replied that while his employees could do some of the work, it would delay the reopening of the park. A22 - Child Care Center of Evanston/Building Improvements Helen Roberts -Evans, Executive Director of the Child Care Center of Evanston, said that their phone number is 847-869-2680, and they are located at 1840 Asbury Avenue. Ms. Roberts - Evans thanked the Committee for the opportunity to submit this proposal as well as for its past support. The current proposal is for a building project: they would like to improve the energy efficiency at the Center as well as improve the safety. This project includes replacement of windows at the Center that are no longer functioning; they do not open or close properly. Poor lighting has been brought to their attention by parents and teachers. She explained that many groups use their facility's at night. The Center has received estimates of S 19,985 for the lighting, and S12,970 for the window replacement. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21.2003 Pace 2 The total for the project is 532,955, but the Center is contributing 53,295 through fundraising. David Schoenfeld asked if the Committee was unable to fund the Child Care Center for the full amount of its request, how would Ms. Roberts -Evans prioritize the projects and is there a way that she could do a portion of either one of them. She said that lighting would be a priority, and while children are on all three floors of the building, new windows on the first floor of the three-story addition would be a priority because of the security issue. Ald. Rainey said that comparing the Center's financials to others it looks as though the Center is doing well. They had investment income of $47,500. Investment income of that kind means that they must have some good endowment stocks, etc. She asked how controlled and how restricted the funds were? Ms. Roberts -Evans said that they do have an endowment and this was started strictly for home day care provider pay and for teacher salary. Ms. Roberts -Evans said that in May of each year they take 5% of the endowment and use it to help fund their line item for teachers salary and home day care provider pay. Most of the children at the Center are subsidized by IDHS and for the fourth or fifth year in a row, the state has not increased the reimbursement rate, but the Center has been able to give raises to the staff because of the endowment. Lisa James said that in some cases an endowment would allow special circumstances to allow additional money or to request a modification to the way an endowment distributes funds. She asked Ms. Roberts -Evans if she had submitted such a request. Ms. Roberts - Evans said that this has been brought to the Center's Board and it was met with strong opposition. They were told that the endowment was created for teachers salaries and has a restricted use. The Board does not want to use up the endowment and then not have enough money to pay home day care workers and teachers. Ms. James asked if the Center had looked into getting a loan and using the endowment for collateral. Ms. Roberts -Evans said they do have a loan using the endowment for collateral. Because they have more subsidized children than full pay children they have a line of credit and use it as needed. Ms. James asked what the balance is of the loan? Ms. Roberts -Evans replied that it was 510,000. The total credit limit is 5120,000. She explained that if they take out a loan to do the physical improvements, how would they pay the loan back? She explained that each time that the Center has come to request funds from the CD Committee, it has also held fundraisers to raise part of the money. Ms. Roberts -Evans explained further that the reason for the credit at the bank is because payroll has to be made. The certificates do not always come in on time from the Illinois Department of Human Services, so there are some months where the Center has to borrow 560,000 to make payroll and then wait for the certificate checks. She added that sometimes the Center has to wait two or three months for the checks. In fact, the Center is still receiving checks from August. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 Paee 3 A 24 - Family Focus, Inc.IWeissbourd Holmes Center Roof Kevin Limbeck, Executive Director stated that Family Focus was located at 2010 Dewey, and the phone number is 947-475-7570. He introduced Crawford Richman, Interim Director, James Burton, Building Engineer, and Lindsey Hagy, Grant Manager for Family Focus. Mr. Limbeck expressed his thanks for CD funding over the years. Without CD funding they would not be able to serve the families and children in the community that most need their support and services. He said that Family Focus was asking for 585,282 for a new roof. He said that Family Focus has already invested $30,000 this year to replace another roof. The building was built in 1905 and it has been twenty years since this particular roof had been replaced. The condition of the roof is causing extensive leaking throughout the building damaging interior walls and ceilings of spaces used by Family Focus's renters. Crawford Richman said the funding would allow them to tear off and replace the existing roof that covers approximately 1/2 of the building. It will be replaced with a roof with a 15-year guarantee. Ald. Rainey asked where in their budget were monies for building maintenance and capital improvement_ Mr. Limbeck said that every year Family Focus puts $7,000 to 510,000 in their budget for building maintenance and all the rent they receive from tenants is put back into the building. Aid. Kent asked if they have gotten the best bid possible on replacing this roof. Mr. Limbeck replied that they have gotten some bids and when given the grant will go through a formal bid process. Ald. Kent asked if they were going to replace this roof with another flat roof or put in a roof with a small pitch. He was told that the new roof would have a slight pitch. Ald. Kent requested that Mr. Limbeck provide pictures of the roof that is there now and also what the new roof would encompass. Kenneth Rodgers said that Mr. Limbeck had mentioned structural damage and a roof, he asked if the $85,282 was to fix both the structural damage and the roof? He asked if Family Focus has had someone come out and give a proposal for doing a pitched roof as opposed to the flat roof. Is there some kind of violation as to whether you can or cannot put additional drainage in the root? He asked how much it would cost and does Family Focus have it in writing? Ms. Lindsey Hagy stated that they do have it in writing and will have more when they enter the formal bid process. She said she has been told by the company that gave them a bid that installing more drains would cost much more money. Also, the pitch that they are looking at would be very slight. The $85,282 covers both the repairs on the structure and the new roof. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Hagy to share some of the proposals they would be receiving with the Committee before it decides funding. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 Paee 4 A28 - Toddler Town Day Care/HA VC Angelo Nikolov, owner and director for Toddler Toxvn Day Care, 1501-03 Howard Street in Evanston said that Toddler Town's current capacity is 73 children. Of the 73 children, 62 of them are subsidy from the IDHS program. Of those 73 children, 21 are Evanston residents. Their proposal is to fund new air conditioning and heating units in their current building and install an awning out front to protect parents and other visitors of the building coning in and out. Currently, they have an old heating unit on top of the roof heating one of the classrooms and hot water boilers that heat the floors. In the winter season, the gas bill ranges from S800 to S900 a month. Since they do provide service for low-income families, it is difficult to have that kind of expenditure. Aid. Bernstein asked for an explanation of the S20,000 listed for professional fees in the Toddler Town budget. Mr. Nikolov explained that amount included fees for grant writing, consultant fees, legal fees, accounting fees and bank fees. Mr. Rodgers asked for copies of the bids that Mr. Nikolov has received. Aid. Kent asked for an explanation of the entertainment and graduation fees. Mr. Nikolov explained that because of the great demand for participation by the parents/family of the children graduating, they rent out the a room at the Radisson Hotel for one night for 5400. Added to that is the cost of caps and gowns, light refreshments, etc. Aid. Kent asked if Mr. Nikolov had thought about renting a room in the Levy Center. Aid. Rainey also suggested that Mr. Nikolov talk to the Levy Center. He said he would do that for the next graduation. Al2 - North Shore Senior CenterlEranstox Skokie Volley Services Sandi Johnson, executive director of the North Shore Senior Center (NSSC) thanked the Committee for the opportunity to come before them once again. She said that NSSC's address is 840 Dodge and the telephone number as 947-864-3721. Ms. Johnson said that in 1996, when a local agency was not able to provide case management services to seniors in Evanston, the Department on Aging and Suburban Area Agency on Aging asked NSSC to start providing that service. Their board gave the proposal a great deal of consideration and after two board meetings, they unanimously voted to open an Evanston office. The office opened in February 1996 with seven staff members. There are now 21 staff' members. She said they were asking for funding for the services of a case manager who last year served 136 Evanston residents. For the most part services are provided weekly at outreach locations including Levy Center, Fleetwood Jourdain nutrition site, and Ebenezer Primm towers. She said NSSC would like to offer services at Jacob Blake housing this coming year. CDBG funding provides opportunities for older adults to remain at home. These adults are old, frail, and more than 70% are women. They are either at the poverty or very low- "n.ti. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 Paee 5 income level and most have lived in Evanston most of their adult lives. The staff in the Evanston NSSC works closely with the staff in many Evanston organizations including the City and Metropolitan Family Services and for several years they have been providing office space on a weekly basis for Interfaith Housing's Homesharing program. Ms. Johnson said that NSSC brings in private funding to Evanston. Last year they were able to secure S57,000 in contributions, and foundation support for the Evanston program. This current year they are budgeted at S 129,200 solely for the Evanston Skokie Valley Office. Pam Thomas, director of Evanston Family Services, said that the population that they work with in Evanston is extremely diverse and their staff reflects considerable diversity. Including English, the staff speaks ten languages fluently. Two of the newer employees are native Spanish speakers and they have been trying hard to do more outreach in the Spanish speaking community. One of their major concerns is that elderly residents are aware of the services that NSSC has and that they do not charge for the services that they provide. They have an Evanston advisory council in planning the things they do in Evanston. In addition to NSSC's Advisory Council's commitment to the City, the Council members have expertise in aging, housing, crime prevention, social service provision and law. NSSC's Advisory Council also gives input in areas where they see staff should be trying to make themselves more visible. Ms. Thomas stated that most of their clients were homebound, but they do provide services to caregivers. Ms. Thomas said that NSSC has a regular program of in-house quality assurance that their program supervisors and senior case managers run. Also, the Department on Aging, the Department of Public Aid and the Suburban Department of Aging audit them on a regular basis. This year they applied for CarFa accreditation. They were able to get the maximum three-year accreditation. She said that CarFa scrutinized everything that NSSC did for days. Two regular program supervisors do regular supervision with all the case managers and help them with plans for care and resources. Ms. Thomas said that they have volunteers who make phone calls to clients who are active, closed cases etc., to get a sense if they are satisfied with the response they have gotten from NSSC. She listed the many agencies with which NSSC cooperates. Patrick Acurio, program supervisor, shared a short story that would show the kind of work that NSSC does and the interventions that they provide. He told of a man (he will be referred to as John) whose only family was in Europe. John was deaf and losing his eyesight. One of the few things he did to keep himself connected with people was to play pool at the Levy Center. NSSC worked with the staff at the Levy Center to make a connection with John. They found that he was overwhelmed with keeping his apartment clean. Because of his poor eyesight and increasing frailty it was impossible to do this on his own or even know there was a problem. He was low income, living off social Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 Page 6 security of 51.024 a month that had to pay his portion of his subsidized rent, groceries, utilities and medication. John's sister was concerned and thought that John would have to move back to Europe and move into a nursing home. John did not want to do that; he had lived 36 years in Evanston. NSSC connected John with a friendly visitor through Senior Connections. They secured grab bars from the City of Evanston Disabled Services to assist him to be more independent in his apartment. Using Title 3 funds, they were able to get a TTY phone for him so that he could communicate with NSSC. NSSC helped him apply for Circuit Breaker, Medicaid and homemaker services through the Community CARE program. They secured emergency funds from the Township to buy him food because he had run out of money paying for his medication before he got Circuit Breaker coverage. NSSC helped John to get subsidized housing in the area and he moved into his new home this past month. NSSC got a call from John's sister thanking them for their help. Ald. Bernstein asked if the receivables of almost $724,000 was state funds they were anticipating on receiving. Ms. Johnson replied that the money was capital grants from the state for new buildings that were constructed in Northfield, and they were still waiting for the money. Aid. Kent asked for some insight concerning providing employment and training Evanston for low and moderate -income residents and what is the age that qualifies for that program. Ms. Johnson said that these are middle-aged women that are interested in working in home health care jobs as nursing assistants. Most of those women are 40 and up. Aid. Kent said that there are a massive amount of people coming along that will be in their thirties or forties and have a jail record. Ms. Thomas said that a criminal background check would be made because this person would be working in someone's home and the client may be elderly and/or frail. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked if NSSC has come across predatory lending in working with the seniors. Ms. Thomas said that they come across that very frequently. They refer them to Interfaith Housing, and the Legal Assistance Foundation. There have also been people referred to them by the City. AS - Girl Scouts -Illinois Crossroads Council/Soy Unica, Soy Ladna and Uniquely Me Kim Hennecke, said that their phone number is 847-5734500 X6111. She said she represented Girl Scouts -Illinois Crossroads Council and their request for 56,000 in support of two new programs - Soy Unica, Soy Latina and Uniquely Me which are under the Contemporary Awareness program umbrella. Both these programs have an emphasis on self-esteem and educational enrichment as well as career exploration. They are the first programs that have been fully translated into another language. She said that it was under the advisement and recommendation of Ald. Kent and this board last year that the Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 Paste 8 Girl Scouts will have a heavier emphasis on math and science, the hard sciences, as well as traditional and non-traditional career exploration. The math and sciences are drawing from a curriculum of math, geology, and space, as well as weather. All of the programs can be provided during the day as well as the after school program. Programs will be in English as well as Spanish. Ald. Rainey said that she had been invited to Oakton School to speak to a troop that held their meeting in the evening. They had invited Ald. Rainey because the girls wanted to speak to a woman in government. It was a group of junior high girls, and these girls were very well informed. The girls had talked to their parents and were asking questions about taxes and garbage collection. She said she could not have been more impressed with the dedication of the troop leaders. Ald. Kent asked if space was found in one of the churches that is in an area where the majority of youth is bussed to school, could the Girl Scouts then hold meetings at that church in the evening instead of during the day at school. Ms. Hennecke said that was possible. She cited another area where this has been done. A13 - Open Studio Project/Art do Action Program for At Risk Youth Dayna Block, executive director stated that Open Studio was at 903 Sherman and their phone number is 847475-0390. Ms. Block introduced Sarah Laing, director of Community Outreach and Ted Harris, vice president of the board and also president of the Finance Committee. Ms. Block stated Open Studio is a non -for -profit social services and arts agency that began in Chicago in 1991 and developed an art and writing process. This process has been pretty unique in the art therapy world, it is taught locally and nationally in art programs around the country. She said she teaches it at the Art Institute in Chicago. In 2001 they started a pilot program with 8 youths. They now serve over 100 youths in after school programs and during the summer. They have collaborated in a pilot with YOU and also collaborate with many other agencies in Evanston. Most children are from low and medium income families from south and west Evanston. Children that participate in this program are from 9 - 14 years of age. When they first come to the program they are asked to write an intention paper. An intention can be anything from I am going to have fun and be creative today to I understand why I got in a fight with this kid at school, or I got kicked out of class, etc. The first week they learn about drawing, the second week they learn about painting, and the third week they do sculpture. Trained art therapists lead the workshops with assistance from trained facilitators. After that they write about their work, some write rap songs, poetry, it can be anything they can imagine. Everyone gets together and while you read, no one can comment on what you read and no one can comment on your artwork, which makes it pretty unusual. With children that age it's hard to feel safe if you think your friends are going to laugh at you. A primary goal is to help youth develop the inner resources for Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 Paec 9 making difficult decisions related to substance abuse, crime and unhealthy behaviors. At the end of the workshop, an exhibit is held for parents and community members. The opportunity to exhibit their creativity increases self-esteem of participants. A14 - Sonia Collins/Renika Purimetla/Teen Outreach Network Sonia Collins introduced herself and Renika Purimetla as co-founders of Teen Outreach Network. Their phone number is 847-475-3592, and the address is 227 Richmond Avenue, Evanston. Ms. Collins stated that they were a startup company and were planning to start a pregnancy prevention program in Evanston. She explained that they were focusing on teens - boys and girls - to promote pregnancy prevention. This would be done though abstinence skills, refusal skills, and birth control options. Ms. Collins said the reason they want to start this program is because in doing research they realized that not much is being done in the high school regarding pregnancy prevention. She said that she had revised the program budget from $250,000 to S 162,000, which would be for program supplies, and personnel. They have looked at other companies to fund them. Aid. Bernstein asked where their office would be located. Ms. Collins said that currently they would operate out of her home. Because this is an outreach program, they will be going to clients instead of the clients coming to them. Steve Collins, president of the Board said that they also have looked into the incubator project. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Collins to clarify a statement made in their proposal regarding the Health Department's Family Planning Program not being accessible. Ms. Collins replied that non -accessible means that the youth has to go to the Health Department to receive services. If there are transportation or time problems, Ms. Collins felt it better that she goes to the school to meet with the students. Aid. Kent asked how she would find these individuals. Ms. Collins replied that she would go to community agencies that already exist, go to the high school and to middle school and as the Teen Outreach Network grows, get office space in the school where they can try to bring them to their office. Aid. Kent that there are fifth and sixth graders that need a certain amount of that information also. Ms. Collins said that she plans on using is a pregnancy prevention curriculum through Girls, Inc. and their curriculum is based on children aged 6-18. David Schoenfeld asked what the minimum amount of money would be that would get them started. Ms. Collins said that it is $1,000 to license the program, approximately S2,000 for office supplies, and 51,600 for training. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21. 2003 page 10 Aid. Rainey asked if his. Collins could charge for their services. She said that they would not charge at the beginning, but later, if they like the presentation and were invited back, they would charge a fee which would be approximately $75 a client. Aid. Kent suggested that Ms. Collins talk with the student government about supporting this program. Lisa James asked Ms. Collins if she had gotten any letters of interest from some organizations. Ms. Collins said that she had not but that she would get the letters and forward copies to the Committee. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Collins to forward information about where this program has been implemented along with the letters of interest Ms. James added that she would like some statistical data on teen pregnancies in Evanston, different programs that are currently in place, and what the success rate on those programs have been. A6 - Haitian American Community Associadon/HACA Education do Training The Haitian American Community Association (HACA) is at 2010 Dewey Avenue, in Evanston and the phone number is 847-864-9626. Patrick Meneide said this program is held at Family Focus and has been very successful. There has been an increase in students every quarter. He explained that this year HACA is asking for more funding in order to reach at least 75 youth in Evanston through this program. A technical course has been added to the curriculum. Because most of the children do not have a computer at home, HACA is trying to work with another agency to provide the students with computers. Aid. Bernstein asked the days and hours of the program. Mr. Meneide said the program was held on Saturdays from 9 am. to 3 p.m. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if HACA had been able to place any of the students in jobs. Mr. Meneide said that there are students who have left the program and are currently either seniors in high school, are in college or currently working. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what agency HACA was partnering with that is giving students computers. Mr. Meneide said they have partnered with CAELA, an organization in Chicago. CAELA does a range of programs ranging from technical support for computers and help with the elderly. Aid. Bernstein asked how many computers were available at Family Focus. Mr. Meneide replied that right now there were 10, but that Family Focus is adding more. Aid. Kent said that according to the budget submitted, HACA would spend $5,000 on snacks, $6,000 on literature and mailing, $6,000 on public radio and TV, 56,000 on home visits. He thought that snacks could be had for less than $5,000, literature mailing for $6,000 he might be able to understand, but asked Mr. Meneide to explain $6,000 for radio and TV. Aid. Kent said that with a contained group, HACA would not be Community Development act Committee Minutes - October 21.2003 Pace 1 I constantly recruiting, why are they spending $6,000 on radio and TV? Mr. Meneide said that the snacks were an incentive and he thought that they need the TV and radio so that the public knows about their services. Ald. Kent asked for some written information regarding the need for $6,000 for home visits. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for information on alternatives for outreach to the potential student base as opposed to the radio and TV. Aid. Rainey said that one of the things she thought important was the parent/teacher conferences in the school and why couldn't the parents be invited to the learning place to meet with the teacher instead of spending $6,000 for someone to go to the home. She said that the Committee needs more information regarding recruiting and if that is more advertising, then along with the public radio and TV brings the budget to $12,000, which is rather steep. Mr. Meneide said that he would revise the budget according to the Committee's recommendations. Kenneth Rodgers asked how many volunteers participated in the program. Mr. Meneide said that there were a few. Mr. Rodgers asked if there was any parental involvement. Mr. Meneide said that there was not a lot of parental involvement because of their work schedules. in response to a statement by Mr. Meneide, Aid. Rainey asked why he was picking up the students to bring them to class. Mr. Meneide said that one reason we pick some of the children up is for safety. HACA is responsible for these children for the length of time they are in class and when we pick them up and take them home, we wait until they enter their house. Ald. Bernstein asked how much hands-on time each student gets on the computer. Mr. Meneide said that right now they have 15 students. While ten students are on the computer, five are doing something else. Aid. Kent said it was hard for him to understand why you need to pick students up when they are 15 and 20 years old. He also said it was hard to understand how you spend 55,000 a year on snacks when you only have 15 people at a time. Is it snacks or are they being served a meal? Aid. Kent asked Mr. Meneide to get him more information. Mr. Rodgers agreed that HACA should not have the responsibility for pickup up the students. He said that he has been part of an organization for 15 years and it is all strictly volunteers donating time and money. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21.2003 Page 12 A9 - Legal Assistance Foundation/Evanston Legal Services William Kolen stated that he was the supervisory attorney of the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago's Evanston office located at 828 Davis Street. His office provides free legal sen•ices in civil matters to low income and elderly residents in Evanston as well as metropolitan Chicago. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and is available to consult with other social service agencies in Evanston and does so regularly. The seniors program provides services to anyone 60 and over that have civil legal problems. Provided services include everything from counseling, advising clients about their legal rights, advising them in court (both federal and state) administrative agencies, department of employment security, department of public aid, and human services. Their office is staffed with 3 and 1/2 attorneys and two clerical support staff people. They are also part of a larger organization that has offices throughout metropolitan Chicago including and an office in downtown Chicago that provides support to our Evanston office. Aid. Rainey asked if Mr. Kolen had seen any cases of predatory lending. He said that he has represented an elderly Evanston couple who were victims of predatory lending and ended up settling the case in June of this year. It resulted in a saving to the couple of S28,000; that was fees a company called Meriquest was charging. As an agency they see many cases of predatory lending. This is a project that was begun about three or four years ago where two attorneys in the Chicago office are full time and they are called Closure Prevention Unit. They are at the forefront of lobbying and involved in the passage of state legislation of predatory lending. He asked that anyone that knows of people involved in predatory lending to refer them to his office. Aid. Rainey asked if there was any indication that the Evanston office would be closed Mr. Kolen said that they had just signed a lease for another year and as far as he knew there were no plans to close the Evanston office. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked how many Evanston clients he had seen this year in the area of predatory lending. Mr. Kolen said 6 or 12 clients have sought his services in this area. He said that if Aid. Jean -Baptiste had constituents who needed his services, to please refer them to his office. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if Mr. Kolen's office would be available to set up predatory lending clinics in the community. Mr. Kolen said it would. Aid. Kent asked if Mr. Kolen had any literature available. Mr. Kolen said he did and he would forward that literature to Sally Lufkin. A2 - Evanston Community Defend erlEvanston Community Defenders' Office Robert Roy, executive director stated that the office is located at 828 Davis Street, Room 304, their telephone number if 827-492-1410. He introduced Jessica Waxman, director of social services. Mr. Roy said he came across a quote "Treat people as if they were Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21.2003 Pane 13 what they should be and you help them become what they are capable of becoming." He said that he wanted to emphasize' what they are capable of becoming", because that value is stated not only in Evanston's Consolidated Plan but also in the questions that are asked in the CDBG application. He said that the Evanston Community Defender's office is a not -for -profit agency governed by a local board of directors that are Evanston residents. They serve low- income Evanston youth 21 and under with legal matters and also social service worst intervention. His mission is to try to improve the quality of life of youth at home, at school, and in the community. People usually come to him because they need legal help in adult or juvenile court, in delinquency matters, and they need help with state agency matters such as DCFS. Sometimes parents are accused of improperly caring for their children or are trying to work out some service plan in response to a DCFS allegation. The social work service program is meant to be an outreach program. As a youth law advocacy agency they have put together a program that is much more holistic and responsive to the needs of low income people. They provide civil and defense services which range from free service and advice to court litigation and social work service, which is designed to effectuate behavioral change. One hundred per cent of the people represented are low income; in fact, some of the people they represent come from some of the lowest income homes in Evanston. Demographically, 58% of the clients are 16 or younger, 78% of the clients are 17 or younger, and 60% of the youth represented live in single -parent female -headed households. Unfortunately, their clients usually come to them when they are already involved in the court system. The Defender's office decided that if they could find a way to target pre - delinquent youth who are exhibiting problematic behaviors, which are usually the kind of behavior you are going to see before a child ends up in juvenile court, that they would take that opportunity. Over the last year staff has attended some training sessions on something called a Youth Court. The Defender's office has applied for and received funds from Evanston Community Foundation and Lighthouse Rotary to begin this process (he distributed material regarding the Youth Court). The idea is to try to target some of this behavior by tying the Youth Court to the code of the school. Mr. Roy explained exactly how this program would work. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what difference Mr. Roy thought his office has made. Mr. Roy said that this program has not remained in the same profile over the 27 years it has been. in Evanston. The Community Defender Office was started because the Human Services Committee was not satisfied with the quality of indigent defense for people in criminal cases. Throughout the 70's and 80's it quickly added social work programs that tried to help people connect with services that made a difference in their life. In the 80's and 90's there became a greater emphasis on youth. He gave several examples of how the Community Defender had helped Evanston citizens. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21, 2003 Page 14 David Schoenfeld asked how Mr. Roy recruited the participants that serve on the Youth Court. Mr. Roy said that the school basically sets up the Youth Court, the Advisory Committee sets up the type of court. It is meant to be volunteer driven, supported by volunteers and in -kind services, but it has to be incorporated into the school setting. He said he has gotten great cooperation from District 65. Mr. Roy said that he would send material about this to Sally Lufkin. AId. Kent asked if something happens when the student is not on school grounds if there is still a system to take a matter to Youth Court. Mr. Roy stated that District 65 and 202 are dealing increasingly with behavior that happens either adjacent or close to school grounds and taking that in as a discipline matter. Mr. Roy said that the reason that the Community Defenders Office is in existence is because of the Committee's support. The money that his office receives for social work purposes from other places are all there because of the support that the Committee provides. He thanked the Conunittee for their support. A3 - Evanston Ecumenical Action Council/Hospitality Center for Homeless Susan Murphy, administrative director of the Evanston Ecumenical Action Council and director of the Hospitality Center, said that she was asking for funding for their job counselor program. She said that there has been job counselor with them for eight years and EEAC recently lost funding for that position. The Job Counselor comes in three times a week. The Hospitality Center is open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday. All of the clients are referred by the caseworkers at Hilda's Place. They are all determined people who are ready to go to work. She sees about 25 people a month; 8-10 are new clients. She assists them in writing resumes, cover letters and applications. They provide transportation assistance to interviews, job fairs, stamps, phone, fax stamps, envelopes, paper, personal care items and grooming advice. In the past months, they have added a follow-up program. Clients are invited to return to the Hospitality Center any time to update their resumes, talk to the job counselor or just to get encouragement from the volunteers. Ald. Rainey asked Ms. Murphy to tell of her experience in helping people find jobs that have been involved in the criminal justice system. Ms. Murphy said that the job counselor works closely with different agencies and we're honest and tell people to be honest about their past. She has been able to develop close relationships with organizations in Evanston that will hire people with a record and give them a chance. Al - Connections for the Homeless/Entry Point Marie Veseley, said that Connections for the Homeless is located at 2010 Dewey Avenue, their phone number is 847-475-7070. Connections for the Homeless operate three separate programs, Entry Point, Hilda's Place, and Family Housing Services. Community Development Act Committee Minutes - October 21, 2003 Paae 15 Funding from the CDBG program provides a coordinator and outreach specialist to go out on the streets of Evanston to offer services in a non demanding way to those that are homeless on the streets of Evanston. Relationships are formed with homeless people in an effort to ultimately persuade them to come in and get services and housing so that they are not on the street. They also respond to calls from the community and from the Police to help people that they think might be homeless. Entry Point has applied to HUD for funding for some scattered site housing for persons with disabilities and that will become a part of our Entry Point program. Most of the funding for Entry Point comes from grants from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. She explained that the amount they were requesting from the CD Committee is approximately S & 1/2% of the total budget of the program. She said that staff is now available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and i p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Aid. Kent said that he noticed that not many Evanston residents are located on the west side of Evanston. it seemed to him, that there would be better outreach if there were an equal amount of input coming from every area of the City. He felt that what Entry Point does is fantastic, but that it needs to be looked at in a much broader inclusive type of situation. There are long time residents that are homeless and don't necessarily look homeless to the point that they are sleeping in parks, because they are sleeping in cars, garages, etc., and you don't know that unless you are part of that community. Ms. Veseley replied that this program has been in existence since 1999 and staff does have a vehicle, they are not limited to just the downtown area. In fact, they cover the whole boundary of Evanston. When a position is open they advertise widely and by many methods. Their coordinator of the program and the outreach specialist have made an effort to reach out through soup kitchens and warming centers. Police and other community people try to get a handle on exactly where we can find people. Ms. Veseley told of an incident where they were helping a client by renting a trailer at a U-Haut place on Howard and circumstances prompted her to call U-Haul headquarters. After investigation it was found that there was someone that was working there that was leaving the trucks open at night so people could sleep in them. The Corporate Headquarters and the Police were alerted and it turned out that there was a whole group of people there at night. Connections, someone from the City Departments and the Police went to the businesses and made them aware of the services that were available. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at l l :16 p.m Respectfully submitted, Mary E ke/Planning Division HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: CHAIR: STAFF PRESENT: L CALL TO ORDER Tuesday, October 28, 2003 7:00 P.M. Evanston Civic Center Aid. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Aid. Rainey, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld None Aid. Rainey Sally Luflcin, Mary Baaske Aid. Rainey noted a quorum present and called the meeting to order at 7:24 p.m. Ill. STAFF MEMORANDUM ON ESTIMATED FUNDING FOR THE 2004/05 CDBG PROGRAM Aid. Rainey stated that there is S666,214 to cut from Public Service proposals this year, with a total of S1,436,701 to be cut overall. Aid. Rainey drew the Committee's attention to the proposed reallocations. She was concerned about where some of the funds on the list had been; some has been unspent since 1996. Sally Lufkin explained that the first three items are funds that have been left from completed projects at Fleetwood Jourdain. At one time, Fleetwood Jourdain had some additional equipment they wanted to purchase with those funds and had received Committee approval to make those purchases. Aid. Rainey made the point that this money could have been used by many agencies. Regarding money that was not used for property standards, Ms. Lufkin said it was because of the turnovers in staff in that department and gaps in filling positions. III. 2003104 CDBG PROGRAM AGENCY APPLICATION REVIEW Al l - Metropolitan Family Services/Psychfatric Services far Parents Sally Frau, program supervisor, 847-328-2404, stated that Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) was requesting S7,000 to provide psychiatric services for parents who are in their community Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28, 2003 Pace Two based counseling programs, child and adolescent program, and family support and counseling program. Metropolitan Family Services would like to hire a part-time psychiatric consultant who would spend five hours a month to their clients. Many times families are referred to their programs because of something that is going on with the children in the families, i.e., they're having behavioral problems in school. Also, the family may be experiencing some economic difficulties, difficulties with housing and maintaining jobs. When counselors start providing counseling to the children they have found that 60% of the parents have unmet mental health needs. The thought is that if the parents are engaged in services, they can get them involved and get their immediate psychiatric needs met, then after a while refer them to the traditional psychiatric services provided by the hospitals. Ald. Bernstein asked how these parents are identified. Ms. Frau replied that MFS has clinical social workers and licensed clinical professional counselors that work in these programs and are trained to identify mental health problems in both adults and children. t AId. Rainey asked what percentage of MFS clientele is low to moderate income. Ms. Frau said that over 90% of their clients are low to moderate income. She added that MFS doesn't accept families that have health insurance. Al - YWCA-Evaaston/Northsbore/Domestic VW* exce Services Christie Dailey, executive director, shared a true story of one of the women helped by the Evanston YWCA. She told of how the woman married while in college and how the abuse progressed to the point of physical violence. After the last beating, she left her abusive husband. She spent three months at the Shelter for battered women and children and then two years in transitional housing while she pursued her education. She met regularly with a YWCA domestic violence counselor and attended a weekly support group. Legal advocates from the YWCA helped her obtain a restraining order and file divorce papers. This woman now lives in Florida and is attending medical school. When asked what the YWCA meant to this woman she replied "The YWCA simply means life when you think that none is left." Ms. Dailey said that last year the YWCA served 464 women. They were provided with 8,683 nights of care in emergency shelter and 3,880 nights of care in transitional housing. The legal office saw 220 clients, the YWCA domestic violence program touched thousands in education and prevention programs. Staff made 278 presentations to 3,887 people that learned something about domestic violence and touched 7,210 school children in nine local elementary schools with anti -violence education. Ms. Dailey said that over the last two years the YWCA has lost 10% of its financing for the program. Consequently, the YWCA has lost one counselor and one transitional apartment. She said that she is very hopeful that the YWCA will receive a grant from HUD through the Evanston Continuum of Care that will allow the YWCA to replace that transitional apartment, making a total of six transitional apartments and be able to add an additional counselor. In addition, She hopes that the YWCA will be able to hire a part-time counselor who would be dedicated to children in the transitional housing. Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28.2003 Paae Three Over the last two years the YWCA has had a bilingual person on staff and the call for Spanish language services has been huge. The YWCA is planning to provide training in corporate settings on the effects of domestic violence in the work place. Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of absenteeism for women. These trainings will be offered on a fee for service basis and the YWCA hopes that this program will work into an earned income line so that the YWCA is not so dependent on government for support. Ms. Dailey said that domestic violence services can be reached at a toll free number 877-718-1868 and if anyone wants to give a donation the YWCA's administration number is 847-864-8445. Aid. Kent commended Ms. Daily on the job that the YWCA does. He asked why Ms. Dailey thinks the funding for the YWCA is falling. Ms. Dailey said that the United Way, State and also private foundations have had to cut their funding. Aid. Kent asked why the women move to other cities after leaving the YWCA. Ms. Dailey said that it was because of the lack of affordable housing. By the time the women and children leave the YWCA the children are embedded in the Evanston school system and they would love to live here, but cannot afford it. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if the YWCA has any programs for teens. Ms. Dailey said that they were thinking of developing that capacity. Aid. Rainey asked Ms. Dailey what the YWCA is doing in the middle schools. Ms. Daily said that they had programs in nine middle schools, two of which (Oakton and Timber Ridge) in Evanston. She explained that it was a ten week support group curriculum for students from 2 - 8 grade. It is an anti -violence program that teaches anger management, as well as self-esteem. Lisa James asked if the YWCA adopted families for the holiday season. Ms. Daily said that they provide suggested lists of presents that would match the needs of the families currently in shelter and they do accept any new toys for the children in the family. She added that the YWCA could be contacted at the administrative number 847-964-8445. A23 -Evanston Day Nursery/Child Health Safety Ann Gadzikowski, Executive Director of Evanston Day Nursery (EDN) introduced some ofEDN's Board members. She said that EDN was a full day childcare and preschool program that serves an economically diverse group of families. EDN can be contacted at 847-864-9700. EDN has been caring for children since 1912, and is the oldest day care facility in Evanston. Hours of service are from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday - Friday. More than half of the families served by EDN are from low and moderate -income households; 47% low income and 8% moderate income. One-third of the families served live in CDBG target areas. EDN is housed in a Victorian style home that is at least 100 years old. Right now there; are some safety issues with the building. Ms. Gadzikowski said that there are three categories of improvements for which EDN is requesting help. The first has to do with sanitation and hygiene. The children are required to wash their hands and the water is lukewarm. This makes EDN out of compliance Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28.2003 PaRe Four with the health code. A hand washing sink is also needed in the kitchen. The second issue is that there is an ongoing problem of chipped paint in the classrooms. Each time paint chips off, EDN covers the area with another coat of paint. The solution would be to scrape the old paint off and then repaint the entire area. The third issue is overall sanitation improvements. EDN needs to construct an entrance to the crawl space and nerds to replace a classroom ceiling that is old and soiled. All the money EDN receives from fundraising is needed in the general budget and EDN has no way of doing these improvements without money from the CD Committee. Aid. Rainey asked if EDN has had the paint analyzed to see if there is lead in the paint. Ms. Gadzikowski said that they have not been able to afford to have the paint analyzed, but the Department of Children and Family Services representatives has written EDN up and said that the issue of lead in paint is something that has to be addressed. Aid. Rainey said that the City has lead abatement money, and asked Ms. Gadzikowski to work with Sally Lufkin to see if EDN could access some of that money. Kenneth Rodgers asked if EDN was handicapped accessible. Ms. Gadzikowski said that the entrance and the new addition are handicapped accessible. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what kind of pests were bothering EDN. Ms. Gadzikowski said that EDN has an exterminator once a month and the exterminator has seen mice. The exterminator made recommendations about drywalling part of the crawl space. It cannot be closed off because, that is where the building's heater is located. Aid. Bernstein asked if EDN was in danger of losing its license if these violations were not corrected. Ms. Gadzikowski said that EDN was in danger of losing its license, and that they have been given until January 1, 2004 to address the problem. However, the inspector said that as long as EDN had a plan in place at that time he would approve an extension to the deadline. A4 - Fint Base/Fisher Memorial Church/First Base Homeless PhTram John Bamer Williams, said that the First Base program was now being operated at 944 Elmwood Avenue, Fisher Memorial Church; the phone number is 847475-4447 or 847-864- 6355. Mr. Barner Williams said that the First Base program is approximately 13 years old. The program is based upon providing the homeless with a permanent address where they could receive mail, messages, and faxes. First Base staff also does resumes for them. Since October 17, 2002 when the program first was funded, some things have been done that made a good program even better. He explained that First Base now does assessment, counseling, case management, keeps contact with every individual that uses the program, and are networking with different realty companies to find the homeless housing. First Base networks with different companies throughout the Evanston and local areas to find work for their clients. Mr. Barrier Williams explained that even though the hours of service are from 2 p.m to 4 p.m., he and other helpers have to get to Fisher Memorial earlier to provide additional services to assist clients with obtaining interviews for jobs and to find housing. Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28.2003 Paee Five Mr. Bamer Williams said that he wanted to make a change in the program budget request, his original request was for S 18,750 but the figure would be closer to $10,000 because First Base has received funding from other agencies. Ald. Rainey asked Mr. Bareer Williams for the names of some of the organizations that he refers his clients to. Mr. Williams said he was networking with Home Depot and Target. He said he was on the board of Reba Street Development Corporation and networked with Manchester Realty, Famesworth, Inc., and First Base is trying to build a list in regards to finding people housing. He said that incorporated in their bylaws is a statement that First Base will provide training for jobs for the homeless. Kenneth Rodgers asked how many families or individuals are in the program at this time. Mr. Barrier Williams said that there were about 150 people. Mr. Bareer Williams said that there were three permanent staff members and about 7 volunteers. Ald. Kent asked if Mr. Barrier Williams had considered the Families in Transition (FIT) program as far as moving families into housing. Mr. Barrier Williams responded that because the different organizations in Evanston have rules about who they serve, many of those organizations refer people to the First Base program. Ald. Bernstein said that living across the street from the Fisher Memorial Church he sees the good that the Church and Mr. Barrier Williams do in giving hope to the homeless. He commended Mr. Barrier Williams for his hard work. Al - Meals at HomefFood Delivery to Seniors do Disabled Patricia Carlson, said the telephone number for Meals at Home is 847-251-6827; their post office box is 279, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. Ms. Carlson said that Meals at Home delivers meals at home to homebound elderly and disabled citizens in Evanston. People receive two meals a day delivered by volunteers between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Holidays. Meals at Home provides medically prescribed diets as well as general meals. Volunteer check on the well being of recipients when making deliveries and offer a safety network for these often isolated individuals. Problems are reported to the executive director, who contacts family or other agencies, as appropriate. She said that Meals at Home proposes to utilize CDBG funds for case subsidies for clients who cannot afford to pay the full fee for the service. This will enable Meals at Home to provide food for low-income seniors and disabled individuals, those we already serve and to inrnease client numbers of very low income. Meals at Home is asking for funds to cover subsidies for 33 clients who live in Evanston on such low incomes that they cannot afford to pay the regular low fee of $7.50 a day for two meals. Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28, 2003 Pace Six Ms. Carlson gave an example of one of their clients. Ms. A lives close to Evanston Township High School. She has diabetes, arthritis and asthma, and is on oxygen. Her monthly income is $552. Meals at Home is charging her 51.85 a day for the two meals. The regular rate is 57.50 a day, so a client who is with Meals at Home for a full year can pay the full of 51,950. Ms. A is paying 51.85 a day which is $481 a year, so the amount of the annual subsidy for her is S1, 469. Ms. Carlson said she has gone through her client list and made a list of those clients in Evanston that they are subsidizing. Those payments total $31,951.92 per year. The food costs for 33 clients at $7.50 a day w111 bring 564,350 per year. The shortfall for Meals at Home is 532,398.08 per year. She said she is asking the CD Committee for 520,000 to help pay for meals for these Evanston residents. Ms. Carlson said they also have a friendly visitor program and if clients are interested, they can sign up for the visits. There is no charge for this service. Aid. Rainey asked if Ms. Carlson got many referrals from the City of Evanston; Ms. Carlson said that they do occasionally. David Schoenfeld asked what Meals at Home pays the hospital for the meals. Ms. Carlson said that Meals at Home pays St. Francis $4.60 a day for two meals for a day. AIS - Treasure Chest Foundation/AAA (Triple A) Mentoring Youth Camp Oliver Gray, representing the Treasure Chest Foundation, said their telephone number is 847-475-0763, the email is treasurechestministrvr'msn.com. He said that this program was a mentoring program during the 8 months of school and a summer program that will run 8 weeks. The AAA stands for athletics, academics, and personal achievement. Athletics for people who aspire to be great athletes, through academics they are going to try to provide tutoring service in the schools, and through personal achievement by getting the youth involved in social service projects. Aid. Bernstein asked where Mr. Gray would provide these services. Mr. Gray said he is in negotiations with someone at Haven High School and AAA plans on using the gym there, and also the Peter Jans Golf Course and the public tennis courts. Kenneth Rodgers asked if he understood Mr. Gray to say he had this program in Chicago. Mr. Gray said that what he meant to say was this program was implemented in some of the agencies he has worked with in Chicago. Sally Luflcin asked Mr. Gray to clarify the funding request. When he submitted his application, the funding request was for $75,000 and he emailed an amended application to her today asking for 5100,000. He said that he was changing his request to 5100,000 because most other agencies have been funded by the government for 5100,000. Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28.2003 Parse Seven Aid. Kent said that with Mr. Gray's first request for S75,000, he would serve 20 clients. With the new request of S 100,000 he asked Mr. Gray if he would still be seming 20 clients. Mr. Gray said that with 5100,000 he would serve 25 clients. Ald. Kent asked if Mr. Gray had been in contact with any of the Evanston business regarding this program. Mr. Gray said he had not, but he had been in touch with some women's organizations, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and seeking funding from the Tiger Woods Golf Association, the Women's Golf Association, and the Tennis Association. Aid. Rainey asked about the program fees listed in the AAA Mentoring Youth Camp Program. Mr. Gray said that they were going to charge S 1,000 per child, and that is with the parents paying $100 a month. A25 - Infant Welfare Society/Baby Toddler Nursery Interior Reconstruction Kathy Shearer, Executive Director introduced Katie Trippi, President of the Board of Directors the Infant Welfare Society of Evanston. She said that the Agency can be reached at 847-491-9650 and the address is 2200 Main Street, Evanston, Illinois. Ms. Shearer said that IWS's application is for funding to complete renovation of the Baby Toddler Nursery. Baby Toddler Nursery is the oldest facility of its kind in the State of Illinois, having opened its doors in 1968. Currently they serve 70 children and have 35 staff people in this program. IWS is open 51 weeks a year, 10 hours a day, 5 days a week, 3 - 4 evenings a week, and 27 Saturdays a year. This project involves the construction of three enclosed classrooms in the west wing of Baby Toddler Nursery. Construction of the classrooms will require demolition of existing construction, reconfiguration of plumbing and electrical wiring, construction of new walls and doorways, and the addition of acoustical materials to reduce noise. This construction will be done in 24 days during the month of August. Of the children they serve at Baby Toddler, 75% are poverty level children living in the CDBG target area; the children are 6 weeks to three years old. The funding requested of S29,177 represents 20% of the cost to do this project. The 1WS has a grant through Early Head Start for 80% of the project, and that is the maximum that can be requested and IWS is asking CDBG for the remaining 20%, which represents the community match requirement of the project. IWS's annual budget is approximately S2.2 million and this year IWS will have to raise about I S% of their operating budget. Aid. Rainey asked about the mention of leasing space for an amount of S6,972 and in previous years S 12,000 and S 13,000 have been spent. Ms. Shearer said that figure is for lease space at Family Focus for their Teen Parent Services, classrooms and office space. A26 - School District 65/Oakton School Playground Don Stevenson, Director of Buildings and Grounds, thanked the Committee for the grant given to assist in remodeling the playgrounds at Dewey and Martin Luther King schools. He said the current application for S75,000 is to assist in renovation of the Oakton School Playground. District 65 is contributing over $100,000 for the playground. He showed several options for remodeling the playground. Candice Hill, representative of the PTA, said she was present to ask the Committee to donate funds to upgrade the playgrounds of the school. Ms. Hill Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28, 2003 Paee Eivht explained exactly how the funds would be used and how much the playground and park are used. Aid. Rainey said that when CDBG dollars are used for playgrounds, usually the Committee hears from the parents who have participated in the design. Sha said she hoped that the parents would participate in the design of the Oakton School playgrounds. Mr. Stevenson said that he was presenting a preliminary design and he intends to meet with the parents by the time this project is put out to bid. Ken Rodgers asked whether the Oakton playground was the last school that would need funding help. Mr. Stevenson said he was correct. David Schoenfeld asked Mr. Stevenson to explain the funding breakdown. Mr. Stevenson said that he would go to V a school board for any remaining dollars needed after receiving CDBG funding. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that Mr. Stevenson discuss his project with Brian Rosinski of Ridgeville Park District because Mr. Rosinski is able to do much (with a playground renovation project) with very little money. A16 - Second Baptist Church - YAMIYAM Annual College Retreat Tasha Ransom, 2004 YAM board president, said she can be reached at 847-869-6955. She introduced Kymia Baker, VP of marketing and Jerri Edwards, financial director. Ms. Ransom said she was asking for $25,000 to fund taking young adults on college tours and to have the ability to take even more students on the tours. Most of YAM's students' fall within the low to medium income range and in the past, money has come from various organizations, corporations and private donations. The average cost per student in $500, although no student is expected to pay this full amount. She explained that each student has to attend three or four retreat orientations or workshops. Ms. Ransom added that no student is turned away. On the trip students and chaperones are required to write a daily essay on their experiences on the trip. She listed the colleges they have toured and colleges they plan on touring. Kymia Baker said that YAM's goal is to facilitate educational growth as well as social growth for youth from all walks of life. YAM has participated in various events that not only teach them how to advance and succeed; but also have a positive function amongst their peers. She shared letters thanking YAM from the students that have participated in the program. She listed corporations and business that have contributed in the past. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that when he graduated from high school, during his senior year he also participated in a trip visiting colleges. In reply to a question from Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Kenneth Rodgers said that this (YAM) was the only program he knew of that has been in existence for 15 consecutive years. Committee members commended the presenters and the program and recommended that their own colleges be visited too. Aid. Kent asked if YAM had been keeping tract of the colleges that were visited and how many of the children that went on the college trip went to one of the colleges they visited. Ms. Baker replied that the purpose of Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28. 2003 Page Nine the trip is to expose the students to as many colleges as they could and to tell them that they have the option of attending any college they wished. Many of the students decide to attend the colleges that they visited during the trip. Lisa James asked what criteria YAM was looking for when they accepted a child to go on the tour. Kisha Lee, president of YAM, said that they looked at whether the student was being consistent with their grades in school and had a 2.5 grade average or better. All - Youth Job Center/Employment Readiness, Job Placement do Follow -Up Services James Sibley, executive director of the Youth Job Center (YJC), said that YJC is located at 1114 Church Street and the phone number is 847-864-5627. Mr. Sibley said that the national unemployment rate hovers around 6.2%, the black unemployment rate is 11.1%, and the Hispanic unemployment rate is 8.5%. The Illinois unemployment rate is 7.1%. Mr. Sibley gave an overview of the three proposals submitted by YJC. He said that YJC's core services consist of job readiness, placement and then follow-up and that service has been their core program for twenty years. Mr. Sibley said that approximately one and one-half years ago YJC started an out of school youth program that is a collaborative with the Work Force Development Program of Cook County. The target audience for that program is 18 - 21 years of age. He said that YJC has an obligation to work with their clients in that program for twenty-four months. This past summer YJC worked with District 65 in a program called the Summer /Tutors Program, where 14 - IS year old youth worked as interns to elementary school teachers. YJC also has a program working with Walgr+een Drug Stores, where they provide customer service and cashiering skills training. Alb - Youth .lob Center/Youth Interns Program Mr. Sibley explained that part of this program was about placing 14 - 15 year olds in a job experience that is a wonderful opportunity expand the exposure of the children, and to give them a wonderful first work experience. The Intem Program is about placing older youth as interns in jobs meeting their career interest for eight to ten weeks. Initially five or six youth will be involved, but YJC wants to eventually have 74 youth in the project. This program also includes continuation of the Ben & Jerry's Partnershop. A29 - Youth, Job Center] Transitional Jobs Mr. Sibley said that this proposal centers around transitional jobs. He said the program targets ex -offenders, the homeless, and those who have challenges moving into the work force. The YJC will serve as an employer for a three to four month internship. The person will be placed with employers who are part of YJC's partner network. This allows the clients to get work experience where they might not normally have that kind of exposure and allows the employer to see the clients in a work environment. It is the hope that through this training, permanent placements will result. Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28, 2003 Page Ten Ann Jennett reported that the Ben & Jerry's ice cream store that YJC Enterprises is sponsoring had a successful first year as far as employees are concerned. The first shift of employee trainees has gone on to permanent jobs elsewhere. This is the idea behind the Ben & Jerry's store; to train people so that they can go on to other jabs. However, because this was the first year of business, some mistakes were made. Because of the cold summer and mistakes made, the store has not been successful financially and is operating in the red. Aid. Rainey asked how many people transitioned out and how many are transitioning into the Ben & Jetty's program. Tera Krigbaum, Ben & Jerry's manager replied that the first group began with ten trainees and eight successfully completed the program. The second group began with eight trainees and there are still seven trainees in the program. Aid. Rainey stated that the program budget in her notebook is blank and she asked that it be filled out and given to the Committee. Aid. Rainey asked if this program competes with the City's Summer Youth Program? Mr. Sibley said that this program would not compete with the City's Summer Youth Program. He said that Ben & Jerry's is a year-round program. Kenneth Rodgers asked if he understood that Ben & Jetty's was running in the red John Kennedy, Board President, said that the store is running in the red. He said that one of the things that happened was that YJC didn't realize that it would need as much management as was needed. Also, because of the cool summer and because ice cream sales are not as strong in the fall and winter, the store will probably run a deficit through this time period. However, YJC's Ben & Jerry's store had the third best sales in the Chicago area. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if YJC would be partnering with other agencies to provide a holistic support for the youth Mr. Sibley said that they would. Ms. Sacella Smith said that they partner with a variety of agencies within Evanston and the surrounding communities i.e., Connections for the Homeless, YOU, Community Defenders Office, etc. She added that YJC also has expungement workshops, so that those individuals that are unaware that they have records could learn how to have information expunged from their record. Aid. Bernstein asked if there has been any recognizable cooperation between YJC and School District 202. Mr. Sibley said that they have had a number of meetings with Dr. Alan Alson, and have spoken about possibilities. Terrance James said that YJC is now located in the Community Resources Center where all the peer services are located at the high school. With YJC's intern program they are working with the high school's Special Ed Department and working together to place the youth. Aid. Kent said that there are a lot of 14 and 15 year olds that want to work, and a lot of employers do not want to employ them because they don't want to take on the responsibility. He said that if there is any way to break that down, we need to try. Aid. Kent said he believed that Housing & Community Development Committee Minutes - October 28, 2003 Paee Eleven there will be more ex -offenders aged through junior high in the future and there needs to be programs in place to help them. Ald. Kent said that he wanted some feedback as Mr. Sibley talks to Sally Lufkin regarding the ex -offenders and the homeless. He asked if there is a possibility to separate and focus on the ex -offender and the homeless. Mr. Sibley said that the end result of both the ex -offenders and the homeless is to place them in gainful employment so they can become self-sufficient. He said that they might come to YJC with different challenges, but the ultimate goal is to make them job ready and move them into gainful employment and a self sufficient environment. Ald. Rainey asked if YJC's staff and board ever discussed the possibility of the organization being stretched too thin in terms of projects and tasks they are taking on. Mr. Sibley said that what YJC really focuses on is the program they already have, but their employment number are going down. They had to figure out a creative way to place their clients. When YJC designed these programs, it was the intent that they be integrated. Ald. Rainey said that she wanted the CD Committee to allocate the HUD money properly. The two proposals that YJC has submitted in the Public Services category is asking for 25 of the entire Public Service budget. There are 20 other proposals and the money has to be divided among all proposals. She asked what YJC will do when they don't receive as much money as they have asked for. Mr. Sibley replied that they would find a way. Ald. Rainey asked how ex -offenders are placed because you cannot place any ex - offender in any job. Tera Krigbaum said that there currently is an ex -offender working in the program and it was a process with that individual to decide if she was ready for the progrmn and if her offense made her unsafe or ineligible to be around other clients, customers, etc. Ald. Rainey asked for a an example of a felony crime having been committed by a person who has served their time that YJC would have no problem hiring. Ms. Krigbaum said it was a case by case matter, but the offense had to be definitely nonviolent. Terrance James said part of his focus is educating ex -offenders and getting them to understand what jobs they can and cannot obtain. He said that with a felony one couldn't work in a hospital or in a social work situation. The ex -offenders are then steered into getting into more technical training or getting a different field of interest. If the clients are really intent on working in the social service population, YJC helps them obtain a waiver so that they can achieve their career goals. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at 10:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Mary Baas lanning Division CO'MMUtiITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEETING MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: CHAIR: STAFF PRESENT: I. CALL TO ORDER Tuesday, November 18, 2003 6:30 P.M. City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center Ald. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Aid. Kent, Horace Payne, Aid. Rainey, Kermeth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld None Aid. Rainey Sally Lufkin, Mary Baaske, Teresa Boda, Mary Rodino, Raye Janousek Aid. Rainey welcomed the audience to the Housing and Community Development Act Committee and explained that Committee funding recommendations would be decided at this mating. She noted a quorum present and called the meeting to order at 6:51 p.m. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 28 AND NOVEMBER 4, 2003 MEETINGS Kenneth Rodgers moved approval of the minutes of October 28 and November 4, 2003. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously, 8-0. III. COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE David Schoenfeld moved approval of the proposed Committee meeting schedule for 2004. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Motion passed unanimously, 8-0. IV. 2004/05 CDBG PROGRAM Sally Lufkin, Grants Administrator, introduced Teresa Bor a to the Committee. She said that Ms. Boda does the financial management of the CDBG program and most importantly does the draw downs from the City's Letter of Audit and keeps everything on tract. Ms. Lufkin also introduced Mary Rodino and Raye Janousek who also help with the program. Ms. Lufkin pointed out that there was a revision to the funding estimate. She said that for the year 2004/05 there will be $2,754,832 to allocate. There are S4,104.928 in requested funds, which leaves $1,350,096 that will have to be cut. Aid. Bernstein moved to reallocate S 145,832 to this year's funding cycle. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Motion passed uusuimously, 8-0. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 18, 2003 Paee Two Ald. Jean Baptiste moved that Fleetwood Jourdain be allowed to keep the 520,000 in monies unspent from previous years funding. Lisa James seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously, 8-0. Sally Lufkin said that this affects the amount of money to be reallocated. The reallocation amount now becomes 5125,677. David Schoenfeld moved to allocate 5340,000 to CDBG Admin, 590,000 to Housing Advocacy and 575,000 to the M/W/EBE program. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to allocate $335,000 to CDBG Adrinistration, 590,000 to Housing Advocacy and 596,800 to the M/W/EBE program. Mr. Schoenfeld accepted the amendment. Horace Payne moved that A13 - Open Studio Project be funded at 56,000 and A16 - Second Baptist Church Y.A.M. funded at $12,500. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey moved to fund the following: Community Development Administration at SlOO,000; Housing Code Compliance at 5240,000; Housing Rehab Administration 5230,000; Program Income 5200,000; Adaptive Devices 515,000; Handyman Program $15,000; Civic Center Boiler Building Apartment 515,000; Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance $160,000; HODC Board Up & Repair Program S-O-. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. After much discussion regarding Alley Paving - East of Custer/North of Linden, Ald. Jean Baptiste moved to fund it at SO. Motion seconded by Ald. Bernstein. Ald. Rainey moved to fund the following: Fleetwood Jourdain at 5100,000; Mason Pads at 5150,000; Target Area Tree Planting at S20,000; Alley Improvement Program at $125,000; Block Curb/Sidewalk Program at 565,000; Accessible Club Ramp Program at $80,000; Reba Park Renovation 545,000. Aid. Rainey explained that including the reallocation of prior years' unspent funds, Fleetwood Jourdain was being funded at $120,155. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. Ald. Jean Baptiste moved to fund the following. Entry Point at $12,000; Evanston Community Defender 555,000; Hospitality Center for the Homeless at 52,500; First Base, $2,500, Girl Scouts, $5,000; HACA Education & Training $23,000; Interfaith Housing Homesharing $15,000; Interfaith Housing Predatory Lending Prevention $5,000; Legal Assistance Foundation at $10,000; Meals at Home at 510,000; Metropolitan Services Psychiatric Services for Parents at $5,000; North Shore Senior Center at 525,000; Teen Outreach Network at SO; Treasure Chest Foundation at S0; Youth Job Center at 580,000; YWCA Domestic Violence Services at 536,000; Graffiti Removal at 530,000; Adopt a Fancy Can at $5,000; Senior Crime Prevention Program at S23,000; Summer Youth Employment Program at 560,000. Motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Aid. Rainey reported that she had gone to Family Focus the past Saturday at about 10:30 a.m. to visit the HACA Education & Training program. When she got there the room in which the program was supposed to be operating was closed, dark and no one was there. She said she asked people in the building where HACA might be and was told they had no idea. Ald. Rainey spoke to the superintendent of the building and he said that he didn't know where they were and he had not seen Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 18.2003 Pace Three them in quite some time. She asked if he had seen people from the HACA program last week or the week before and he said "No". Aid. Rainey expressed her concern that this program was not functioning and for that reason she recommended no allocation for 2004/05. For the time being, Aid. Jean Baptiste removed HACA from his list of recommendations. Lisa James recommended funding First Base at 55,000. Aid. Jean Baptiste accepted this change. David Schoenfeld recommended adding $4,350 to the Community Defender's allocation raising it to 559,350. Aid. Jean Baptiste wanted to be sure that money was still there for HACA. For now, he accepted proposed the recommendations from Lisa James and David Schoenfeld.. Aid. Rainey made a motion to fund the following under Public Facilities: Child Care Center of Evanston Building Improvements at $20,000; Evanston Day Nursery Child Health Safety at 530,000; Family Focus, Inc. Weissbourd-Holmes Family Focus Center at 547,500; Infant Welfare Society of Evanston Baby Toddler Nursery Interior Reconstruction at 522,500; Oakton School Playground at 570,000; and Toddler Town Day Care $10,000. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Ald. Rainey said that the King Lab and Dewey Playground projects were funded at $70,000 and asked that the Oakton School Playground be funded at the same amount, $70,000. She said that it is understood that District 65 has to add 5100,000 to this $70,000. Sally Lufkin said that she had received some new information and the total cost of the playground is S 188,133. AId. Jean Baptiste moved that Oakton School Playground be funded at S50,000. Motion failed for lack of a second. Ald. Rainey said that Oakton School is on the comer of Ridge and Oakton and happens to be across the street from a big house doesn't mean that this school does not need help. However, this school receives children fmm the poorest census tract in the City, the area east of Ridge, and south of Oakton. Lisa James moved to amend Aid. Jean Baptiste's original amendment to $60,000. Aid. Jean Baptiste accepted the amendment to his motion. It was the opinion of several of the Committee members that School District 65 should take a cue from Ridgeville Park District and do some of the work installing the playground equipment themselves to reduce the cost of the project. Aid. Bernstein said that the School District is not going to do the same kind of hands on Rork that Ridgeville Park District does. AU Rainey and David Schoenfeld expressed their opinions that as a matter of equity, if 570,000 was given to School District 65 for renovation of the King Lab and Dewey Playgrounds, the same amount should be awarded for the Oakton School playground. David Schoenfeld moved to fund the Neighborhood Storefront improvement program at S15,000. Kenneth Rodgers seconded the motion. David Schoenfeld moved to fund the YJC Youth IntenwBert & Jerry's Program and YJC's Transitional Program at SO. Lisa James seconded the motion. Sally Lufkin said that after consulting with the City's HUD Representative the YJC Transitional Program should be placed in the Public Services category. Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to amend the motion by funding the YJC Transitional Program at 530,000 and the YJC Youth Intems(Ben & Jerry's Program at $20,000. Mr. Schoenfeld said he would accept the amendment with regard to the Ben & Jerry's Program, but only that one. Lisa James seconded the amendment. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -November 18.2003 Page Four After moving the YJC Transitional Jobs to the Public Services Category, Ald. Jean Baptiste moved to fund the YJC Transitional Jobs at $30,000. David Schoenfeld said he would second the motion for purposes of discussion. Mr. Schoenfeld said that Public Services was now S53,000 over the cap. At this point Ald. Rainey asked Mary Rodino to read off the status of all the allocations up to this paint. Nis. Rodino stated the following. ADMI N I STRATI O NIP L AN NI N G City -Community Development/Planning/CDBG Administration S335,000 City -Human Relations - Housing Advocacy Program 90,600 City Finance Dcpartrnent/Minority, Women, Evanston Businesa Pragtam 96,800 Administration Total S521,800 PUBLIC SERVICES Connections for the Homeless/Entry Point $12,000 Evanston Community Defender/Defender's Office 59,350 EEACJHospitality Center for the Homeless 4500 First Base/Fisher Memorial AME Zion 51000 Girl Scouts/Soy Unica, Soy Latina and Uniquely Me 5,000 Haitian American Community Association/HACA Education & Training 23,000 interfaith Housing/Homesharing Program 15,000 Interfaith Housing/Predatory Lcnding Prevention 51000 Legal Assistance Foundatioa/Evanston Legal Services 10,000 Meals at Home/Food Delivery to Seniors & Disabled 10,000 Metropolitan Family Services/Psychiatric Services for Parents 5,000 North Shore Senior Crnter/Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services 25,000 Open Studio Project/Art & Action Program for at Risk Youth 6,000 Second Baptist Church/Y.A.M. Annual College Retreat 12,500 Youth Job Center of Evanston/Job Readiness, Job Placement and Follow up 80,000 YWCA-Evanston/'v'orthshoreMomestic Violence Services 36,000 Community DevelopmentlGrafOti Removal Program 30,000 Community Development/Adopt a Fancy Can 5,000 Police Department/Senior Crime Prevention Program 23,000 Human Relations Commission/Summer Youth Employment Administration 60,000 Youth Job Center of Evanston/Transitional Jobs 30,000 Public Services Total: ,S452J50 Public Services Cap: S406,350 To Be Cut: ) Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 18.2003 Page Five HOUSING City -Community Developmcnt/Community Development Administration slo0,000 Housing Code Compliance 240,000 Housing Rehab Administration 230.000 Program Income: Revolving Loan Fund 200,000 City-Healtiv'Human Ser ices/ Adapative Devices 15,000 Handyman Program 15,000 City -Facilities Managcment/Civic Center Boiler Building Apartment Rehab 15,000 CEDA/Ncighbors at Work/Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance 160,000 Housing Opportunity Dervelopment/HODC Board Up & Repair Program -0- Housing Total S975.000 PUBLIC L%1PROVF-%TENTS City - Parks/Forestry & Rec/Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center $120,155 Mason Park 150,000 Target Area Tree Planting 20,000 City - Public Works/Alley Improvement Program 125,000 Block Curb/Sidewalk Program 65,000 2004 Accessible Curb Ramp Program 80,000 Ridgeville Paris Dis-trict/Reba Park Renovations 45,000 City - Evanston Police Department[Video Monitoring Program Public Improvements Total: S605,155 PUBLIC FACILITIES Child Care Center of Evanston/Building Improvements S20,000 Evanston Day Nursery/Child Health Safety 30,000 Family Focus, Ine/Wcissbourd-Holmes Family Focus Center 47,500 Infant Welfare Society of Evanston/Baby Toddler Nursery Interior Rcconst. 22,500 School District 6510akton School Playground 60,000 Toddler Town Day Care/HVAC 10,000 Public Facilities Total $190,000 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT City -Community Dc%-elopment/Planning/Neighborhood Storefront Improve $15,000 Youth Job Center of Evanston/Youth Interns/Ben & Jerry's Program 20,000 Economic Development Total: S35- Total Funded: S2,786,305 Amount to be cut: S31,473 Aid. Rainey explained to Aid. Kent that the Committee had waited for him before deciding on the funding for the Video Monitoring Program. Aid. Kent said he understood that money was in short supply and if he had to, he would choose to fund the camera at Church and Dodge, since that area has Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - November 18. 2003 Pace Six waited for a camera the longest. Ald. Kent moved to fund the Video Monitoring Program at $21,000. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. David Schoenfeld moved that the allocation for 530,000 for the YJC Transitional Work program be cut and the funding allocation moved to the YJC Ben & Jerry's project. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to fund the YJC Transitional Work Program at $15,000 and the YJC Ben & Jerry's Program at 535,000. Aid. Rainey informed Aid. Jean Baptiste that moving the $30,000 to YJC's Ben and Jerry's program was at YJC Enterprises' request. YJC Enterprises is extremely concerned that the Ben & Jerry's Program will become defunct without this funding. Ald. Rainey said she has asked YJC if they had hired any ex -offenders at the Ben & Jerry's store and YJC replied that they had. Kenneth Rodgers moved that the HACA Education & Training be funded at S-O-. Motion seconded by Horace Payne. Mary Rodino said that $29,473 needs to be cut from the total funding. David Shoenfeld moved that S 10,000 be cut from Fleetwood Jourdain making their funding 5110,155. Kenneth Rodgers seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey moved to cut $5,000 from the Alley Improvement Program making the funding amount $110,527. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. David Schoen;; I, moved to reduce YJC's Ben & Jerry's funding to 545,000. Lisa James seconded the motion. Ald. Jean Baptiste moved to reduce the Alley Improvement Program funding by 59,473. Motion seconded by Aid. Kent. Aid. Bernstein moved to accept the Committee's recommendation in all categories for a total 2004/05 CDBG program budget of $2,754,832. David Schoenfeld seconded the motion. IV. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at 9:50 Respectfully submitted, Mazy Baas Planning ivision CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 18, 2003 FY 2004/05 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPUCATIOrr:S AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS I s APPLx-4W PROGRAM N"E PP'ROPRIAno REQUEST 1 EC011MEIi1AT10M1 ADMINISTRATIONIPLANNING C1 ICITY - COMMU04tY DEVE2DPMErinPL.aw jCWG ADMINISTRATION S33Z000 $=.T00 SUSAW C2 CTTY -HUM AN RELATIONS CaMIMISSfaN HOUSM ADVOCACY PROGRAM 66,000 99,491 = 90,000 C3 CITY - FINANCE DEPARTMENT MINORITY. WOMEN, EVANSTON BUSINESS PRJ 93,000 � 124,677 I 96,600 JADMDNSTRATM TOTAL: $5111000 1 SSa9.wa I S521.600 1!f ADRWMSTRATM CATEGORY CAP: u21.11M To BE CUT: tsa.0os lavallabis to fund so t PUBLIC SERVICES I Al CONNECTIONS FOR THE HOMELESS IENM POINT A2 EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEFENDER IEVANSTON COMMUNITY DEFENDER'S OFFICE A3 EVANSTON ECUMENICAL ACTION COU HosprrALI TY CENTER FOR THE HOMELESS Ail FIRST BASEIFISI£R MEMORIAL AM E ZIO FIRST SASE - HOMELESS, PROGRAM AS GIRL SCOUTSALLINOIS CROSSROADS C SOY UNICA SOY LATINA AND UNIQUELY ME A# i JITIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY ASSOCI IFLACA EDUCATION A TRAINING AT INTERFAITH HOUSING CENTER +HOMESHAWNG PROGRAM A/ INTERFAITH HOUSING CENTER jPREAATORY LENDING PREVENTION 1 A! LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION!CHICA EVANSTON LEGAL SERVICES � Aft MEALS AT HOME FOOD DELIVERY TO SENIORS AND DISABLED 1 A111METROPOLITAN FAUCY SERVICES JPSYCHUATR]C SERVICES FOR PARENTS I Al2 NORTH SHORE SENIOR CENTER 1EVANSTC*i►r.,I ME VALLEY SENIOR SERVICES A13 OPEN STMIO PRWECT I ART 3 ACTION PROGRAM FOR AT RISK YOUTH A14 SONIIA COtWS&ENUKA PUROAETLA TEEN OUTREACH NETWORK Ali TREASURE CHEST FOUNDATKNOGEMINI 1AAA {TRIPLE Ap MIENTORING YOUTH CAIAPT PR' A141 SECOND BAPTIST C &WCI!- YOUTHAC711 YAM ANNUAL COLLEGE RETREAT A17 YOUTH JOB CENTER OF EVANSTON (JOB READWESS, JOB PLACEMENT AND FOLLO AIM YIIVCA-EVANSTONINORTHSHORE IDOMtESTIC V1 XENCE SERVICES J AZ9 YOUTH JOB CENTER OF EVANSTON +TRANSITIOML JOBS C4 CITY -COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (GRAFFITI REMOVAL PROGRAM Ca CITY - COUMUNITY DEVELOPUENTIPLAN ADOPT A FANCY CAN CS CITY - POLICE DEPARTMENT SENIOR CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM I C7 CTTY - HUMAN RELATIONS COSO4SSION SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT ADMINIS'TRATI PUBLIC SERVICES TOTAL: PUBLIC SERVICES CAP. S4W350 TO BE GUT: $XT.114 S16,0001 S15.000 $12,000 62,000 55,000 59.35' 0 0 12.000 2.500 0 10.000 51000 0 cow s,000 23.0001 100.000 1 0 171500 ZZ.0001 15,000 0 7AX 1 5,000 10,000 10.000 1 10,000 0 20.0001 10,000 6,480 7.0001 5.000 27,000 36*000 25,000 0 7AW 6,000 01 12.900 0 01 100,000 ( 0 01 25,000 I 12,500 80,0001 104.611 1 80, 000 35,4531 38.000 36,000 01 58,520 0 28,0001 32,500 30,000 5,000 10.000 5.000 23,000 23.000 23,000 55,000 89AM 60,000 SMA33 $831,964 $406,350 available to fund s0 CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 18, 2003 FY 2004105 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS 2003M4 00 24 COWEVENTEE Is APPLJCAJMT PItCCJt IINAMIE PPROPMTIOI REQUEST I ECOUMEDATION HOUSING CS JCIITY - COMMUWTY DEVELOPMENT COMMUNFTY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION i100,000 10804W $100.000 A Cr<TY - COMMMIRiiTY DEVELOPMENT HOUSING COOS COMPLIANCE 240,000 249,000 240,000 C/MCFTY - OOMMtUTATY DEVELOPMENT HOUSING REHAB ADMINISTRATION 230,000 24SAW 230.000 C11 CITY - COWAWTY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM INCOME: REVOLVING LOAN FUND 200.000 2DOM 20DAM C12AXrV I~ .ALTHYWUYAN SERVICES ADAPTIVE DEVICES 15.000 25,000 16.000 CM7 TY JILTHM IMAN SERVICES iHANDYMAN PROGRAM 0 25,000 16A000 C14 -FAMLFTIFS MANWEMENT Irmc CENTER BOILER BUILDING APARTMNT R 01 29.000 16,000 AM CEVAA4IEK0*V)RS AT WORK MINOR REPAJRSIPAINTING ASSISTANCE 168.1501 218442 160,000 A21 hlDL W OPPORTLOWTYDEVELOPMENT lHODC BOARD UP A REPAIR PROGRAM 01 60,000I 0 - 1HOUNN0 TOTAL. 1 3953.1501 $1,163,642 1 $976A00 PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS C16 CITY - PAR1(WORESTRY a RECREATION FLEETWOOLUJOURDAIN COMMUNITY CENTER $232,500 i2?. AM $110,165 CH CITY - PARKSIFORESTRY S RECREATION MASON PARK 150,000 225,000 1501000 C17 CITY - PARKSIFORESTRY A RECREATION TARGET AREA TREE PLANTING 23,000 20,000 20,000 CU CITY - PUBLIC WORKS ALLEY PAVING - EAST OF CUSTERINORTH OF L 0 130,000 0 C" CITY - PUBLIC WORKS ALLEY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 180.000 200,000 110,527 C21111 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS BLOCK CURBlSIDEWALK PROGRAM 90.000 100,000 65.000 C21 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS 2004 ACCESSIBLE CURB RAMP PROGRAM 90,000 125.000 80.000 A27 RIDGEVRU PARK DISTRICT REBA PARK RENOVATIONS 0 45,000 45.000 C22 CITY - EVANSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT VIDEO MONITORING PROGRAM 0 65.000 21,m {PUBLIC IIItPROVEMEXTS TOTAL: 1 $765,500 1 $1,133.500 1 $601,6921 PUBLIC FACILITIES A22 CHILD CARE CENTER OF EVANSTON BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS $0 $29.600 $20.000 A23 EVANSTON DAY NURSERY CHILD HEALTH SAFETY 0 50.000 30.000 A24 FAMILY FOCUS. INC. WEISSBOURD+HOLMES FAMILY FOCUS CENTE 0 85.262 47AM A25 WANT WELFARE SOCIETY OF EVANSTO BABY TODDLER. NURSERY INTERIOR RECONST 0 29,177 22.500 A29 SCHOOL DISTRICT 65 OAKTON SCHOOL PLAYGROUND 0 75,000 60,000 A2B TODDLER TOWN DAY CARE HVAC 0 18,500 10,000 1PUBUC FACILMES TOTAL;- 1 $0 1 $297,559 1 $190.000 CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 18, 2003 FY 2004105 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS 0 *JWLWAW PROGRM NAM nwm I PPROPwi no n"" KO AW I commmim TIOM I ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Ai�YOUTH XM CeNTM OF AP ON IY um wmRuseEH 3 xRRm P110rmm 0 48APS 46.000 l z .. . . DEVELOPMM TOTAL: I $01 $WA75 I ito,000 Taw Aq pftsSo : ss GRAND TOTAL: $2,615,083 I i4,104,9n $2,754,632 AprCyA�caRons: 29 TOTAL FUNDS AVAILABLE: 2.764,832 2,754,332 coy 0 • AppYufbnr Z7 TO BE CUT: i0 i1,350,09i $0 kx a * Fret Tier I{p Am* orN&w Pmgrw t r _.#T%._ %� HOUSING & COiNEMU`'ITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE Evanston MINUTES Tuesday, December 16, 2003 7:30 PAL - Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center ME.NIBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey. AId. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Kent, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: John Barner Williams. First Base; Roy Holmes; Betty Ester; Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender, Amanda Jones. Evanston Police Department; Mary Friedl PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey. Chair 1. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUOR0*1 Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:39 p.m., a quorum being present 11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 18, 2003 Aid. Kent made a motion to approve the minutes of the November 18, 2003 meeting. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 4-0. III. NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS DISTRICT FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Mr. Roy Holmes, representing Ebenezer AME Church, owner of the building at 1932-36 Maple, discussed the application for the City's neighborhood storefront fagade rebate program. The building has two storefronts on the ground level and apartments above. Several years ago code violations were addressed and the building is in compliance. The neighborhood storefront improvement application is for renovation of the two storefronts. One business will be a tanning salon and the other a coffee shop. The project will include installation of new windows, awnings, entry doors, improvements to the knee wall and s •. •.ri, rl.r,r-. • Housing d Community Des elopment .act Committee Minutes -December 16. 2003 Page 2 reconstruction of the entn stairs and installation of nc %% handrails. The brick fagade of the enure building %sill be painted to gisc it a uniform appearance. The estimated cost of the project is S48.000 and approval is requested for a rebate of up to S24.000, Aid. Kent made a motion to approsc the project and a rebate of up to S24.000, S1.1,000 of which will be paid ssith CDBG funds and S10.000 from the economic devclopment funded fagade rebate program. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 4-0. IN'. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2004/05 CDBG PROGRA31 BUDGET AND PROPOSED ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2004/05 A. Staff Review of One Year Action Plan for 2004i05 B. Y.A.M. EXCEL - Letter from board president C. Correspondence re Haitian American Community Association D. Committee Vote to recommend approval to City Council Sally Lufkin discussed the proposed One Year Action Plan for FY 2004 05. Site said that the Committee's funding recommendations for 2004/05 are put into a HUD proscribed format along with narrative statements requested by HUD. The first tssenty pages of the Action Plan are narratives discussing the City's plans for CDBG, HOME Investment Partnerships and Emergency Shelter Grants funds. The narratives also address other areas, such as lead based paint, analysis of impediments to fair housing choice, and economic development issues, particularly for loos moderate income residents. Added to the Action Plan this ycar is staft7s summary of the applicability of NEPA environmental regulations to the proposed 2(Y04i05 CDBG activities. All proposed activities have been determined to be either exempt from `EPA regulations or categorically excluded, sshich means that a limited environmental review was conducted on each categorically excluded project. his. Lufkin said that none of the proposed 2004 05 CDBG projects will insolve a full environmental assessment. Following the narrative portion of the Action Plan, each proposed project has a one page description narrative. showing eligibilit}- information and amount the project is to be funded. In addition to discussion of the City's proposed 2004105 CDBG activities, the Action Plan includes discussion on the use of the City's 2004i05 HOME and ESG funds. The Action Plan will also include the City's new CDBG Target Area map, based on 2000 census data. The proposed map is presented for approval by the Committee at tonight's meeting. Ms. Lufkin said that actual entitlement amounts have not yet been determined by HUD and that the proposed CDBG (HOhfE and ESG) program budgets are based on estimated Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 16, 2003 Page 3 figures. Congress has adjourned for the year and will not reconvene until the third week in Januan•. A House.Senate conference committee has prepared a report with recommendations for HUD funding for 2004, but the full House and Senate will have to approve the HUD's 2004 funding in January. Aid. Kent asked about one of the communications in the committee's packet which discussed the adoption of faith based regulations for HUD programs. He said that the notice puts faith based organizations on an equal footing with other not -for -profit organizations. Aid. Kent said that lie thought that the City already treated faith -based organizations within the context discussed in the HUD memorandum. Ms. Lufkin responded that the regulation was more of a clarification of how faith -based organizations arc to be treated in considering CDBG funding eligibility. She discussed some of the faith based sponsored CDBG projects that the committee has approved for funding in past years. Public Hearing on Proposed 2004/05 CDBG Program and One year Action Plan for 2004/05 Aid. Rainey called the Public Hearing to order at 7:45 p.m. John Barter Williams thanked the Committee for its support of the First Base program. Betty Ester, 1806 Gray, discussed a program she has become involved with recently, the Citizens Lighthouse Community Land Trust. Ms. Ester said that next year the organization hoped to be in a position to apply for CDBG funding. The Citizens Lighthouse Community Land Trust's (CLCLT) goal is to acquire property that would be rehabbed for either rental or sale. The organization's geographic focus is the entire City of Evanston. Right now CLCLT is doing outreach to inform the community about the organization and its goals, talking to other not -for -profit housing development organizations. On December 3', a meeting was held at the Civic Center with many of the housing development organizations in Evanston, interest was expressed in learning more about how community land trusts work and a future meeting has been scheduled. Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender's Office, thanked the committee to continuing to support the work of the Community Defender's Office. Mary Friedl discussed the accessible curb ramp program and its importance to the disabled community. She said that the ADA Committee already had identified 30 locations which need correction for next year. Ms. Friedl thanked the committee for continuing to fund this important program. Housing & Community Development .act Committee Minutes — December 16.2003 Page 4 Aid. Kent read a communication from Matt Passen and Jan Weeks. who stressed the importance of the accessible curb ramp program. They thanked the committee for funding the program for 2004 '05 at S80,000, but requested that the committee consider fundinL the program at the full amount requested, S125.000. Mr. Passen and his. Weeks also expressed their support for the adaptive devices program and additional funding for it in 2004 05. Aid. Kent said that he thought that the committee had done the best that it could in funding the accessible curb ramp program at the level approved. He also requested an updated map of the completed curb cut locations and those yet to be done. Ms. Friedl also discussed the difficulty disabled persons have on the sidewalks in downtown Evanston. Because the sidewalks are now made of brick, sometimes after a freeze, the bricks will not lie flat. but will lilt up out of the ground making the pavement uneven. She said that this presents a danger to persons with limited mobility, such as persons with three wheeled vehicles which can easily be upset by uneven pavement. Aid. Rainey closed the Public Hearing at 8:10 p.m. Aid. Rainey acknowledged receipt for the record of a letter from Second Baptist Church Y.A.M. Excel and copies of correspondence regarding the Haitian American Community Association. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he was withdrawing his request that the committee review its funding recommendation for the Haitian American Community Association's Education & Training program. lie said that initially he sent letters about this issue based on the fact that one of the factors %chich determined the funding recommendation, was Aid. Rainey's visit to the program site at Family Focus. He said that he also had conversations with Sally Lufkin regarding compliance issues and the requirements of the Association for its 2003 04 grant. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that as the result of this process, he is withdrawing his request for review of the funding recommendation for the Haitian American Community Association. as the organization is not in compliance with CDBG program regulations. Because the organization is out of compliance, Aid. Jean - Baptiste said that he could not support funding for 2004,05 for the HACA Education and Training program. Aid. Kent made a motion to recommend approval to the City Council of the FY 2004,05 CDBG program and One Year Action Plan for FY 2004/05. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion; motion carried, 4-0. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 16. 2003 Page 5 V. APPROVAL OF REVISED CDBG TARGET AREA UTILIZING 2000 CENSUS DATA Aid. Rainey summarized the process the Committee undertook in deciding on a revised CDBG Target Area map, starting in August and September 2003. She said that adoption of the map had been put on hold during the 2004.05 budgetary process. HUD told the City that it needed to adopt a map by the beginning of the 2004105 program year, or March 1, 2004. Aid. Rainey said that the last time the committee had discussed the Target Area map. a recommendation was made to consider approval of what was known as Proposal G, of the several maps which had been ender consideration. The threshold for the overall low'moderate percentage of the target area population is 50.3% (meaning that at least 50.3% of the residents living in the CDBG Target Area must be low/moderate income per HUD guidelines). It was clarified for David Schoenfeld that, in determining which blocks would be included in the new Target Area map, that the census block groups could not be split. Aid. Rainey made a motion to approve the revised CDBG Target Area map, based upon 2000 census data provided to the City by HUD, and as presented and discussed by the Committee in Proposal 6. The motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried. 4-0. VI. CO.M.MUNICATIONS A. Committee Meeting Schedule for 20W B. Third Quarter Reports C. Housing Options Newsletter Homejrond, Fall D. Mental health Board Allocations for 2004105 E. Black History Month Information — February 2004 F. NCDA Washington Report, 1 l 21103 G. The Chronicle ofPhilantlrropt- — Charities Brace for State Cuts H. HUD awards over S30 million to help the elderly and people with disabilities continue to live independently at home 1. Bush Administration announces more then S37 million in grants to promote homeownership and housing for low-income families J. HUD Anti -Discrimination public service announcement names best of 2003 K. Martinez to step down as HUD Secretary L. News Articles: - Bit by Bit. Government eases its grip on rents in New York - Brothers topple barriers to Latino home buying - Schwarzenegger's plans on smart growth awaited Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 16. 2003 Page 6 Spain's housing fcN-er running high despite climbing prices - Cost of transportation a fact in housing prices - Chicasao No. ? in mortgage radial gap. ACORN study sa%s - Mac.Ghur Foundation gi%,cs S50M.for rentals - No%►. bugalow rehahhers and 'get it right' - One exit, one entrance in affordable housing business here - As foreclosures rise. city acts to help homeowners - Overspending on mortgage leares families vulnerable - Realtors' Web listings facing an antitrust inquiry - Subprime lender takes a loss in class action - Tax break for first-time buyers has few takers - Cost of land spurs town home urow-th - ? firms' plans could ease credit barriers to buying - Land trust make homes happen - California a niche for new home materials - A tragedy git-es rise to a business to help disabled - Builders attach plans for Freddie. Fannie - Nati\,c American feel bias in renting - This lottery pays off with a new condo Fairbanks case may give mortgage firms religion - The lure of foreclosed homes - Credit reform benefits to roll home buyers away - U.S. house prices up 5.5%. Chicago ranks No. 10 in cost - Florida itwestieates homeowner group's debt -collection practices - U.S. pressed fight against mortgage fee -padding Concessions by landlords remain widespread - Lemont bridge to be funded by firm's fine - Family too big for studio. can't afford more - Homeowners selling for less than they owe - California prices expected to hit high - Boomers like long-term debt, despite middle age - Stateway Gardens conversion to begin by spring The communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. V1I. STAFF/CITIZEN CONEMENT There was no additional staff or citizen comment. VIII. EXECUTIVE SESSION Aid. ]can -Baptiste made a motion that the Committee move into Executive Session at Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 16, 2003 Page 7 8:25 p.m., according to the statute, so that it could consider real estate, litigation or personnel matters. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Roll call: Aid. Jean - Baptiste -- aye; Aid. Kent — aye; David Schoenfeld — aye; Aid. Rainey — aye. The Committee convened into Executive Session. Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion that the committee adjourn from Executive Session. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Roll call: Aid. Jean -Baptiste — aye; Aid. Kent -- aye; David Schoenfeld — aye; Aid. Rainey — aye. The committee adjourned from Executive Session at 8:43 p.m. IX. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:43 P.M. Staff: Date: January 12, 2004 MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for January 2004 has been canceled The new meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for February 17, 2004 at 7:30 p.nL in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. I 42,�?j q, A-? r City of EVanston- MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, February I 7, 2004 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers Lisa James, David Schoenfeld Aid. Kent, Aid. Bernstein Sally Lufkin, Community Development Deparanent PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:42 p.m., a quorum being present H. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 16, 2003 MEETING AND EXCUTIVE SESSIONS MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 16, 2003 Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to approve the minutes of the December 16, 2003 meeting and the Executive Session minutes for December 16, 2003. The motion was seconded by Horace Payne. Motion cymed, 6-0. III. FY 2004/05 CDBG FUNDING Sally LuWn said that the City had learned its actual 2004 CDBG, HOME and ESG fimding this afternoon. 2004 CDBG funding is $2,395,000, or 14,000 less than the City's entitlement for 2004 ($2,409,000). (2004 HOME funds ate S586,630, and 2004 ESG funds are $89,120.) Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —February 17, 2004 Page 2 Ms. Lufkin discussed a suggested plan for adjusting 2004/05 funding allocations. She said that the funding in the Administration/Planning category had to be reduced by $2,800 and in the Public Services category by S2,100 to keep those categories within their respective caps of 20% and 15%. She discussed a spreadsheet, which showed the funding amounts recommended by the Committee (and approved by the City Council), the percentage of funds in each category allocated to each funded line item, the suggested amounts to be cut from each funding allocation, and the proposed revised allocations. She added that approval of the revised funding allocations in the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories totals S4,900, which means that S9,100 will have to either be reduced from other funding allocations, or, reallocated from prior years' activities. Ms. Lufkin proposed reallocating $9,100 from 2003/04 CDBG Administration to the 2004/05 CDBG program budget. This way, no other funding allocations would have to be reduced (except for the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories previously discussed). In response to a question from David Schoenfeld about how funding levels for the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories are determined, Ms. Lufkin explained the calculation procedure for determining those categorical funding limits. David Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the proposed reductions in funding levels in the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories and approve the reallocation of $9,100 from 2003 CDBG Administration to the 2004/05 CDBG program. The motion was seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 6-0. Ms. Lufkin said that the proposed reallocations and funding reductions will be submitted to the City Council for approval at its February 23rd meeting. IV. COMMITTEE DISCUSSION AND AGENDA PLANNING FOR FUTURE MEETINGS Ms. Lufkin asked for Committee input on sites where they would like to hold off -site meetings and other topics the Committee would like to further discuss. Other meeting locations proposed included Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center, Infant Welfare Society Baby Toddler Nursery, Second Baptist Church Y.A.M. program, Open Studio Project, CEDA/Neighbors at Work, Youth Job Center, YWCA and Ridgeville Park District. Ms. Lufkin said that except for the May and July meetings, Committee meetings through September could be held off site. One of the topics the committee would Iike to learn more about is community land trusts. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —February 17, 2004 Page 3 V. COMMUNICATIONS A. CDBG Target Area Ma (approved by City Council) B. Response from Judith Witt re Status of Setuor Crime Prevention Specialist Position C. ADA Curb Ramp Pro Status Report D. Connections for the Homeless — 2003 Anml d Report E. National Communitv Development Assn. Washington Report for 2/6/04 F. Evanston Housing Commission — Minutes for December 18, 2003 G. HUD News - Fiscal Year 2005 Budget Summary - Performance & Accountability Report for FY 2003 - Bush Administration announces new HUD "zero down payment" mor4pp - HUD announces higher FHS home loan limits to help more Amccrritm families become homeowners - Bush administration awards $17.6 million in fair housing grants to continue fight against housing bias :,f H. News Articles - Will Martinez' departure sidetrack mortgage -cost reforms? - HUD defends proposed rules on mortgages - The New York Times — An assault on housing vouchers - Them's a mortgage for almost any situation - First-time buyers get boost from assistance programs - When an equity line becomes a life line It's condos v, rentals in New Jersey - Bias is bias, even when the victims are white - Architecture world embraces health, happy and green Manufactured homes an affordable option - VA loan limits raised to $333,700 - Mortgages that fit your work - The mortgage picture for 2004 - Mortgage delinquencies down - Mortgage fraud cases are on the rise - Mortgage lenders make a pledge — homeownership for minorities Study finds refi madness was actually quite sane - Saving your home — there's hope, even in the midst of foreclosure FCI - FDIC directors recommend alteration in lending law - Now, an FHA loan with zero down, zero cash - Maryland towns try to control growth, maintain character - Popular South Carolina town runs up against growth limits - Affordable housing revisited in New York City boroughs - NY apartment inventory cut - Georgia law puts disabled in housing limbo - NJ religious leaders attack housing plan - California mortgages regulation critczied in legislative hearing - Parisians leave bustle of city life behind - The Danter Report — Is Your Downtown Ready for Housing? - The New York Times — On Crime as a Science (a Neighbor at a Time) Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —February 17, 2004 Page 4 Aid. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. DI. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT The Committee's March meeting, which falls on March 10h and is also the Illinois Primary election day, will be held Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 7:30 p.m. Ald. Rainey congratulated Kenneth Rodgers on the latest awards he has received. Sally Lufkin discussed National Community Development Week, which is the week of April 11-17, and is also the 30d' year of the CDBG program. She said that the Council will be meeting on Tuesday, April 13'� which is also the Annual Township Meeting, and thought that that time would be a good opportunity for the Committee to commemorate National Community Development week and the many accomplishments the City has made with CDBG funding. She said that she would prepare a Proclamation for the Mayor to read at the Council meeting and suggested that the Committee could host a reception for grantees, elected officials and others attending the meeting. Committee members discussed putting together a brief slide show, which could be shown at the beginning of the Council meeting. Committee members were in support of holding the reception and recommended that Ms. Lufkin go ahead with planning for the event. VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Staff: �� * • U V Date: �^'t'► 1? .�004 MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for March 2004 has been canceled The new meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for April 20, 2004 at 7:30 p.nL in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. r Evinston- HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, April 20, 2004 7:30 P&I. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MOMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Kent, Horace Payne ST.-%FF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: John Lcincwcber. Mary McCauley, Sandra Stumme PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m., a quorum being present I1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 17, 2004 MEETING Da%id Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 27, 2004 meeting. The motion was seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion carried, 6-0. 111. REQUEST FROM JOHN LEINEWEBER FOR CDBG FUNDING ASSISTANCE FOR PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT ON DARROW STREET, ;FORTH OF CHURCH John Leino%,cbcr and Mary McCauley discussed a proposed parking improvement project for Darrow Street, north of Church. The fourteen parking spaces to be constructed on the east side of Darrow will be public parking spaces, but are also intended to be used by %-isitors to the Strange Lofts building, 1703 and 1711 Darrow, a former engineering company's building, which has been rehabbed by Renaissance Realty & Construction into seven business spaces. Three of the new tenants have moved into the building and the remainder of the spaces are in the process of being rented. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes --April 20. 2004 Page 2 Mr. Lcine%%-cber said that they have met with Cite staff (David Jennings, Rajcc%, Dahal, Carol\m Brrezinski, Jim Wohnski and Anhur Alterson) and the proposed parking improvement has been approved by them. Rajcc►• Dahal prepared a cost estimate of 530.000 to construct the parking spaces. Mr. Lcineweber said that he will contribute funding to Iandscape the parkway areas both on Darrow and on Church Street in front of Strange Lofts. Ongwing maintenance of the landscaped parkways will also be done by Renaissance Realty & Construction, Mr. Leineweber's company. It was pointed out that it has been difficult to lease some of the spaces because of the lack of parking in the vicinity of the building. In order to expedite the project, Mr. Leine\weber proposes to be the general contractor for the project and will retain an engineering firm to manage the project. He would like to have the parking completed within the next 60-90 days. As the City's Engineering Di,.ision does not have the time to develop the specifications and oversee construction this year, it is acceptable to Mr. Jennings to have Mr. Leinewcber serve as general contractor. He will work with Rajeev Dahal in Traffic Engineering on the project. The proposal submitted to the Committee requested that the funds requested, $30,000, be split between CDBG funds and City economic development funds. Ms. Lufkin suggested in her memorandum to the Committee. that the 515,000 in CDBG funds requested come from the Neighborhood Public Improvement account, which has a balance of S24,165.66. Committee members were in support of the proposed project and were pleased to sec that additional parking -will be added to the Church/Dodge neighborhood business district. Discussion among Committee members resulted in a reference from the Committee to the City's Parking Committee. Aid. Rainey suggested that the City's parking fund also contribute toward this project, as developing additional parking in the City is one of the functions of the parking fund. Ald. Bernstein is a member of the Parking Committee and will discuss this proposal at the committee's neat meeting on April 281" at 6:00 p.m. Ald. Rainey said that Aid. Kent had called her before the meeting to tell her that he could not attend the meeting due to parent teacher conferences at his school. He had requested that this matter be held until the Committee's May meeting. so that he could be present. He had concerns that neighborhood input had not been received. Committee members said that a decision on the funding request needs to be made as soon as possible, as it is important to have additional parking in place for the new tenants at Strange Lofts. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that the Committee vote on Mr. Leineweber's request at this time, but hold the funds approved until after the May meeting, at which time Aid. Kent could be present to discuss this proposal. He said that he would talk to Aid. Kent to relate the Committee's discussion and vote. Xfr. Leineweber also offered to meet with Aid. Kent to discuss the proposal. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April 20. 2004 Page 3 Aid. Rainey made a motion that the S30,000 in funding; requested for the proposed parking improvement project, as presented by Mr. Leineweber and Ms. McCauley, at Darrov. north of Church Street be as follows: S10.000 in CDBG neighborhood public improvement funds. S10,000 in City economic development funds and S10,000 in City parking funds. The motion was seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion carried, 6-0 Ald. Raincy also referred this proposal to the City's Parkins Committee for consideration at their April 23'h meeting. W. REQUEST TO USE HOWARD STREETSCAPE FUNDS FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE FROM APRIL 1 — NOVESIBER 30, 2004 Aid. Rainey discussed the proposal from The Brickman Group to provide landscape maintenance for the Howard Streetscape from Ridge Avenue east to the CTA viaduct. She discussed the lack of maintenance provided by the contractor after the strectscape project had been completed. She said that a number of plant materials had died from lack of maintenance and others had been removed. Ald. Rainey noted that The Brickman Group provides landscape maintenance services for Evanston's downtown business district and has a very good reputation. She recommended that the Committee approve the expenditure of S5,504 in Howard Street funds for landscape maintenance for the 2004 season. In response to a question from David Schoenfeld about using CDBG funds for maintenance projects, Ms. Lufkin responded that maintenance activities arc normally not eligible for CDBG funding assistance. However, she said that she viewed the proposed landscape maintenance contract as protecting the City's previous investment of CDBG funds in the Howard Streetscape project. She said that having regular maintenance provided in 2004 will help the plant materials to become better established. She said that a one time expenditure of CDBG funds would be permissible, however, funding; for maintenance services would have to come from other sources in future rears. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to approve the expenditure of S5,504 in Howard Streetscape funds for the 2004 landscape maintenance proposal submitted by The Brickman Group. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. Motion carried, 6-0. V. COMMUNICATIONS A. Fourth Quarter (2003/04) Reports The Committee reviewed the fourth quarter report (2003/04) from grantees. Not every grantee submitted a report and Ms. Lufkin was asked to contact those grantees who did not submit reports and to remind them of their importance. She was also requested to have someone from the Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April 20. 2064 Page 4 Parks'Forestry & Recreation department present at the Committee's next meeting to discuss the status of the Flectwood'Jourdain landscape project, the Fleetwood/Jourdain locker rooms and lift project, and Twiggs Park. The Committee also requested additional information on CEDA:'Neighbors at Work's activities. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to accept the fourth quarter reports; the motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried 6-0. B. Invitation from Second Baptist Church — Youth Action Ministry C. Evanston Housing Commission Minutes for January 22, February 29 and '.March 18, 2004 D. National Community Development Association's Washington Report for 31S104 and 3/26/04 E. Opening Doors Issue 24: Section 8 Program at Risk! F. Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads Council: Annual Report 2004 and 2004- 2007 Strategic Plan G. Brochure: Community resources in Evanston to prevent and reduce homelessness H. Joint Letter to President re OMB designation of CDBG program as "ineffective" 1. Statement of James A. Garner, President, U.S. Conference of Mayors, on HL'D's FY 2004 budget J. HUD News HUD helping communities expand affordable housing through regulatory reform Seven cities leading effort to help persons living on the streets Bush initiative to provide homeownership for 40,000 «'either and Liu highlight HUD's continued emphasis on affordable housing and strong communities during budget hearing - HUD raises housing goals for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - HI.FD send GSO housing goals to Congress (Recommendations for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Mortgage purchase requirements) - Alphonso Jackson sworn in as HUD secretary - As U.S. marks 36`h anniversary of fair housing act, HUD says housing discrimination underreported by victims - HUD applauds introduction of Samaritan legislation - RESPA Final Rule — HUD and OMB letters - HUD hleping communities expand affordable housing through regulatory reform Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April 20, 2064 Page S HUD to offer affordable housing funding incentives (priority points designed to encourage communities to reduce excessive barriers to affordable housing) • HU) offers to save communities millions in taxes (tax tips could save large and small businesses thousands of dollars a year I. News Articles - It's not easy selling green — Florida house will serve as lab, learning tool in mainstreaming the concept - Blessings flow for owners of city bungalows - N.Y. mayor may suc over lead paint law - ARMs a. a not heretical, if you can manage risk - 5500.000 may get you a 1-bedroom in Manhattan - Aid helps students own homes - Fannie, lenders aim efforts at mobile homes - In California, only 23% can afford median - Will zero-do,.►-n add up to more foreclosures? - Hot Vegas market begets fears for affordability - A gap remains in homeownership - Florida at risk of losing 3 million acres of farmland - Owning: minorities, immigrants said to lag - Equity appreciation may produce tax time bomb - Low mortgage rates keep home prices riding high - Affordable housing incentive shunned - Gap widens for minorities who own - You can finance the potential of a fixer -upper - Where worker housing aid is a natural - Shrinking cities require a stretch of imagination - Smart code aims to re-create cities - N.J. «•on't build affordable homes on open space - Virginia residents object to low -rent complex - New Jersey govemor proposes 1 °o McMansion tax - Local rules: Affordability's final frontier? - A robot may help improve your senior home - What makes this house green? Here's a list - N.J. builders keep blue-collar buyers in mind - Where the boom is: Central Florida's beachfront Ald. Rainey accepted the communications into the record. VI. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT There was no additional stafi;'citizen comment. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes --April 20, 2004 Page 6 VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Staff: 9e� Date: April 22, 2004 HOUSING & COMMUNITY •� DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE Evanston- MINUTES Tuesday, May 18, 2004 7.30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Kent, Ald. Jean -Baptiste MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Luflcin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Doug Gaynor, Parks, Forestry & Recreation; Marne Smith, Fleetwood/dourdain Community Center, Roberta Hudson, T heola D. Murphy, Gordon L. Faust, Donald P. Colleton, Bettye Palmer, `Bo" Price, Sue Carlson, Dino Robinson, Shorefront NFP PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:44 p.m.; a quorum (four members required) was not present. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 20, 2004 MEETING The minutes were not approved due to lack of a quorum. III. PARKS, RECRATION & FORESTRY DEPARTMENT UPDATED ON CDBG PROJECTS Doug Gaynor, Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry updated the committee on the Fleetwood/7ourdain landscape design project and Black American Sculpture Garden and the status of the completion of the Twiggs Park project. Regarding Twiggs Park, Mr, Gaynor said that the City and the contractor for the project are in disagreement on the items which need to be done to complete the punch list for the project. The project is 95% completed. Mr. Gaynor distributed a copy of the outstanding punch list items. He said he did not know the cost of completing these items in today's dollars. Staff has tried several times to meet with the contractor and his attorney to try to settle the matter. A meeting with the City's attorney is scheduled and the contractor's Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 18. 20 4 Page 2 attorney on May 19' . It is hoped that a resolution can be reached. Mr. Gaynor said that the City does not think that the contractor has completed the project at Twiggs Paris. The contractor has submitted requests for payment for an exorbitant amount of money, well beyond the scope of the project and anything the City has on record regarding change orders, which have not been processed. Mr. Gaynor said that he would provide an update to the committee at its next meeting. He added that it is his preference, that the City end its contractual relationship with the contractor and finish the outstanding punch list items on its own. Mr. Gaynor said that the department was awarded $200,000 in CDBG funds for the Fleetwood/Jourdain landscape design project and S75,000 for the Fleetwood/Jourdain Art Guild Black American Sculpture Garden project. Approximately S21,000 has been expended to date for consultant fees for the landscape design project and a little over S26,000 remains in the sculpture garden fund. Both projects are linked and cannot go forward until certain issues regarding land ownership are resolved. Mr. Gaynor showed a concept design for re -landscaping the grounds of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Center grounds. He pointed out that the concept is one of two proposed, but neither one has yet been approved by the Fleetwood/Jourdain Art Guild. He discussed ownership of different parcels on which the Fleetwood/Jourdain center and grounds sat, portions owned by the City and other areas owned by School District 65. Mr. Gaynor said that the department wanted to resolve land ownership issues before expending a considerable amount of funding to make improvements. Mr. Gaynor said that on May 20'h, this matter is on the agenda for discussion at the City - School Liaison Committee meeting. He was hopeful that the discussion at that meeting would result in the school district owned portion of land either being sold to the City or a long-term lease established. A1d. Rainey asked why the department was not able to have this matter placed on the City -School Liaison Committee's agenda until now. Mr. Gaynor said that the eighteen month discussion about reopening a 5'h ward school in the former Foster School (Family Focus building) and the Foster Field property, owned by the school district, might have been needed for the school's use. Mr. Gaynor said that he did not think that the school district was in a position to move forward with a long term lease or sale of the property because of the possibility of opening a 5`'' ward school. Mr. Gaynor said that on the west side of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center, basically from the drip line of the roof to the access sidewalk to the Family Focus building is owned by Family Focus. Right now there is a City managed play lot located on this land. Therefore, a long term agreement will need to be reached with Family Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —May 18, 2004 Page 3 Focus on this portion of land. This discussion has been delayed because of the retirement of former director Delores Holmes and change in administration. Mr. Gaynor said that he and Pat Vance, president of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Art Guild, will be meeting with Sandra Hill, the new director of Family Focus. It is proposed that the Black American Sculpture Garden will be constructed on the west side of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center, on land now owned by Family Focus. Other changes proposed to be made at Fleetwood/Jourdain include the elimination of the tennis courts on the east side of the building and construction of a 35 space paridng lot. Mr. Gaynor said there does not appear to be a demand for tennis courts at Fleetwood/Jourdain. Mr. Gaynor said that he is optimistic about moving things forward with School District 65, hoping that the matter can be discussed and scheduled for an upcoming school board meeting. He is less certain about how long it will take to resolve land issues with Family Focus. Bettye Palmer updated the committee on the status of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Art Guild's sculpture garden project and fundraising. Mr. Gaynor said that once real estate issues are resolved, the Art Guild will be able to continue with its plans for the development of the sculpture garden. IV. PUBLIC HEARING ON EVANSTON'S CAPER FOR FY 2003/04 (CONSOLIDATED PLAN ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT) A. Copy of Notice of Public Hearing B. Staff review of CAPER C. Public Hearing D. Year end report on 2003/04 Shorefront program Ald. Rainey asked Sally Lufkin to review the City's 2003/04 CAPER (Consolidated Plan Annual Performance and Evaluation Report). She noted that the report discusses the City's use of 2003/04 HUD funding from its CDBG, HOME Investment Partnerships and Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) programs. Ms. Lufkin said that the report focuses primarily on affordable housing issues, homeless concerns and economic development/job creation, but that the CAPER also provided a good, comprehensive review of the many activities that the City was able to fund with its CDBG, HOME and ESG funds. To summarize, Ms. Lufkin discussed the 5 year Consolidated Plan goals set out in 2000, the linkage of the programs funded to the 5 year goals. Housing & Community Development Act Committee !Minutes - May 18, 2004 Page 4 Ms. Lufkin said that the City spent $2,820,622 in FY 2003104, most of its for CDBG funded activities ($2,576,250), Emergency Shelter Grants spent $81,504, and the S162,868 was expended in the HOME program. She referred to the tables created by staff in the report, which summarize a number of the City's accomplishments. Ms. Lufkin said that the City spent nearly 1000/6 of its HUD funds on activities which benefited primarily Iow and moderate income persons (99.6%). Ms. Lufkin said that the City spent S400,155, or 14.46%, of its funds on public services activities and $475,605, or 16.46%, of its funds on administration planning activities - both within their respective caps of 15% and 20%. Ms. Lufkin finally discussed the HOME match report, which reports on the match requirements of the City for the HOME program. 31tere was no citizen comment at the public hearing. Dino Robinson gave a year end report on Shorefront's use of its 2003/04 CDBG grant. He distributed a copy of Shorefront' year end report and a copy of the 20`h issue of Shorefront, which gives a retrospective of Shorefront's founding and growth over the past five years. In addition to CDBG funds, Shorefront received funding in 2003/04 from the Illinois Humanities Council, the Cultural Fund, the Mammel Foundation, membership base and several private donations. 2003/04 was the first year that Shorefront operated in its not -for -profit status. Many projects were started. Funded by the Illinois Humanities Council, Shorefront started a project in Pembrook, IL. Pembrook is one of the poorest districts in the country. Dino and several staff members met with officials and community members in Pembrook and were able to record the oral history there. One issue of Shorefront Journal will be devoted to the research and interviews conducted in Pembrook. The Pembrook experience has been used by Shorefront as a pilot program; it has been named '"Me Legacy Project". Shorefront is hopeful of receiving additional funding from the Humanities Council, so that it can continue its program later in the summer. Partnerships have been established with North Suburban Area project, Family Focus and YWCA - Evanston/Northshore to put together African American history. By combining resources with these partners, Shorefront will be able to continue and expand its research and documentation of African American history in Evanston and the north shore. Dino said that he had an exhibit at the library this past February on early African American communities. This was a collaboration between Shorefront and various historical societies on the north shore. The first exhibit was in Wilmette a couple of years ago in conjunction with the Wilmette Historical Society. Information from this exhibit Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - flay 18, 2004 Page 4 has been distributed through the Wilmette schools. Shorefront also collaborated with the Lake Forest Historical Society on a similar project. Shorefront now has a complete series on the African American community on the north shore. Mr. Robinson said that he received a email from the Wisconsin Historical Society regarding an author named James Dankey, who had compiled a book of African American newspapers and periodicals. Mr. Dankey had emailed that "Shorefront was the best African American magazine in the country". Two other organizations have looked to Shorefront as a model for recording African American history. One is in Winter Park, FL , which has connections to Evanston. An Evanston woman, former member of Ebenezer AME Church, retired and moved to Winter Park, FL, where she started a women's league. The African American community was destroyed there, but the community is starting to recreate the community by acquiring this woman's house and moving it to a square and develop a mini -African American historical community. Members of the Winter Park group visited Shorefront at its March 1 Ith fundraiser and Shorefront staff and students plan to visit Winter Park this summer to assist with their project. Mr. Robinson said that a similar process is taking place in Omaha, NE, which also received funding from the Mammel Foundation. Mr. Robinson said that Rose Jourdain had donated to Shorefront her father's files, the former alderman from the 5'h ward. The former alderman's files dates back to the 1930's. Committee members congratulated Dino Robinson and Shorefront on its accomplishments to date and looked forward to hearing more about its growth and influence in recording African American history in the Chicago area and elsewhere in the United States. They also encouraged Mr. Robinson and Shorefront to continue to strengthen relationships with the City's Preservation Commission and other conservation organizations. V. REQUEST TO REALLOCATE UNUSED CDBG FUNDS TO THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Aid. Rainey explained how the CDBG funded special assessment assistance program works, paying income eligible residents' special assessments for completed alley paving projects. She said that the City has received sixteen requests for assistance this year totaling approximately $52,000. While the committee could not vote to approve the reallocations proposed in the staff memorandum, due to lack of a quorum, Ald. Rainey directed that the request be forwarded to the City Council for their approval. Committee members present concurred with this action. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 18, 2004 Page 5 V1. COMMUNICATIONS A. National Community Development Association's Washington Report for April 23, 2004 B. Youth Job Center — Agency Narrative Report (March 2003 — February 20M) C. Opening Doors — Senior Action Service Annual Report 2002-2003 D. News Articles - Voucher cuts have agencies scrambling — HUD's read on budget Iangusge is Disputed - £CDA starts affordable housing program (Evanston) - Low income housing gets a more upscale took - Who will win your complaint? - Credit's Big 3 challenged by `rapid rescoring' firms - Have any interest in interest -only loans? - Proposed Zero -down FHA loan has housing advocates worried - Rates aren't only thing to consider when loan shopping - Buy -rehab mortgages are just for the affluent - Spring has spring, and so have mortgage seammers and spammers - More of us are banking on our homes - Fannie, Freddie hit on affordable homes - Indiana banks preparing for mortgage defaults - N.Y. probe yields housing swindlers - N.Y. high-rise makes AIA Top 10 green list - Maryland keeps historic tax break - South Caroline to help families - Less separation in private housing — California study on segregation - Texas town may cap property taxes Accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. V11. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Ald. Rainey reported on the Youth Action Ministry's awards program, which she attended on Sunday, May 1 b'h at Second Baptist Church. In addition to the awards made to youth, she said that the Committee received a "thank you" award for its role and contribution to the 2004 college retreat. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 18, 2004 Page 6 YIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. $ta.M • d Date: June 1, 2004 fit' Of Evanston HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, June 15, 2004 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Rainey, Lisa James, Horace Payne MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Deparmyent OTHERS PRESENT: Art Wise, Christi Wise, Marls Miller PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Ramey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m., a quorum (4 members) was not pit. 11. APPROVAL OF MYNUTES OF APRIL 20 AND MAY 18, 2004 MINUTES The minutes could not be approved due to lack of a quorum Ill. APPLICATION FOR NEIGHBORHOOD STOREFRONT IMPROVEMENT FUNDS FOR 1405-1407 GREENLEAF Art Wise, owner, and Mark Miller, architect, discussed the proposed storefront renovation project for 1405-1407 Greenleaf: Mr. Wise said that he is a photographer, doing a good amount of commercial photography. He said that he is thinking of doing some portraiture work and needs a street presence for attracting that type of business. He has purchased the 1405-1407 Greenleaf building and will occupy the east unit upon completion and real the other storefront. There are also two apartments on the second floor with the entry door in between the two storefronts. Housing & Community Development Act Commlttee Minutes June 15, 2004 Page 2 Mr. Miller said that in addition to renovation of the two storefronts, the two apartments are also being renovated with new mechanicals, electrical and new finishes in the kitchens and bathrooms. The building stands cast -west and occupies the entire lot width. There is also a small, one story addition on the back of the west storefront. Proposed renovations include restoring the storefronts to their original appearance. There is metal framework in bad shape with openings which allow water to enter into the storefronts. The plan is to replace the storefront frame with an aluminum one. There is a building across the street with the same type of frame. Mr. Miller handed out color renderings of the proposed elevations with the proposed new storefront windows. It is proposed the ribbed glass on the upper part of the windows would be replaced with a similar glass. The masonry is in poor shape over the storefronts and will need to be tuckpointcd. It is possible that a steel beam may have to be replaced before restoring the brickwork. Lintels over the apartment windows need to be replaced. Plans also call to restore the recessed areas in the parapet with new limestone and tiles at the top of the wall will be resealed. Mr. Miller showed a sample of a Marvin window. Mr. Miller said that the current windows are not historically significant and that it would cost too much money to restore the windows. A better double paned window is proposed be installed. Entry doors will be replace with matching doors. The storefront kneewalls will be replace with new limestone walls. Mr. Miller distributed copies of bids received for the restoration work. Sally Lufkin said that project is eligible for a $20,000 rebate. This would mean that the total storefront renovation cost would have to be at least 540,000. Ms. Lufkin said that a combination of 515,000 in CDBG neighborhood storefront funds would be used along with $5,000 in economic development funds. Horace Payne made a motion to approve the $20,000 rebate for the storefront renovation project at 1405-1407 Greenleaf. The motion was seconded by Ald. Rainey. Motion approved, 3-0. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Memorandum from Doug Gaynor on Status of Fleetwood/Jourdain Sculpture Garden Project B. News Articles: - Mexican mortgage lender to open Chicago office - Thousands across U.S. travel to Hammond for affordable housing - Homeownership by poor falling Horsing do Community Development Act Committee Minutes -Tune 15, 2004 Page 3 V. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT Ms. f.ufldn briefed the committee on the results of HUD's recent monitoring visit of Evanston's CDBG program. VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m. Staff. Date: July 14. 2004 Gtv of Evaristorr HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE 16)1laill0*1 Tuesday, July 20, 20044 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Bernstein, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Ald. Kent, Horace Payne, Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Salty Lufkin, Community Development D_Y�..t..._..t OTHERS PRESENT: Nancy Flowers, Commission on Aging; Cardi Flack, Sue Haack, Marie Wells, Al Hoving, Richard Koenig, Housing Opportunity Development Corporation; Amy Greenwood, Music institute of Chicago; Gemariah Borough, Robert Roy, Evanston Community Defender's Office; Pam Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m., a quorum being present 11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF APRIL 20, 2004, MAY 18, 2004 AND JUNE 15, 2004 MEETINGS Ald. Jean Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2004, May IS, 2004 and June 15, 2004 meetings. The motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion Carried, 4-0. III. PUBLIC BEARING ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NEEDS Ald. Rainey opened the public hearing at 7:35 p.m. She said that the purpose of the public hearing was for the committee to learn from the Evanston community where are the areas of greatest need and invited public comment. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 20, 2004 Page 2 Cardi Fleck — Ms. Fleck said that she is an actor. She and several other actors and theater professionals are discussing the formation of theater group for low to moderate income residents. The proposed location for the theater group is west Evanston, serving the 2t4 and S'h wards. They are considering submitting an application for funding. While the proposed project is in the discussion stages, one aspect of the program would be a mentoring component, where students who normally would not have opportunities to work in theater, could learn from theater professionals. This would be done in working on a production; teaching students the various components of presenting a staged theater work. Richard Koenig, Housing Onnortunity Development Coraoration — Mr. Koenig said that HODC is a non-profit housing development organization which develops affordable housing in the north suburban area. HODC currently has six properties in Evanston that it owns and manages totaling 73 units. Mr. Koenig said that HODC is planning to submit a proposal for CDBG funding to address boarded up residential properties. There are a number of vacant, deteriorated and boarded up residential properties in Evanston; HODC would like to take ownership of these properties, undertake renovation of the properties and then sell there at an affordable price for low and moderate income persons. Mr. Koenig said that HODC would like to work with the City to figure out a way to renovate these boarded up properties and increase the supply of affordable housing in Evanston. If the application is approved for funding, HODC would hire an additional staff' person to oversee the program. Right now, HODC does not have sufficient staff time to focus on acquiring and renovating properties. Amy Greenwood. Music Institute of Chicago -- Ms. Greenwood said that the Music Institute would like to provide music performances for seniors in their group residences, an arts therapies program for senior and providing transportation for seniors to concerts at the Music Institute's performance venue on Chicago Avenue. Gemeriah Borough — Ms. Borough said that she has a proposal for an educational film project to discuss Evanston's building codes in relation to rental properties. She said that based on her own experience, it is difficult for renters to get the information they need in order address building code issues. The film will be to work with landlords, tenants and the City to develop a 30 minute film which can then be shown on the Evanston local cable station. The film will show how to work with landlords, how to work with the City and interpret the building codes. Robert Rov. Evanston Communitv Defender — Mr. Roy said that he is requesting that the committee keep as one of its priority needs the legal and social work services provided to Evanston residents. He spoke about the need to address legal and social issues of youth. Mr. Roy said that the combination of social work at a time that a person is involved in a legal situation can be most Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —July 20, 2004 Page 3 helpful in turning a person around. Mr. Roy discussed the establishment of a peer review board to adjudicate some juvenile matters and a collaborative initiative the Community Defender is undertaking with Y.O.U. to provide counseling services for youth. Pam Thomas . Evanston Skokie Vallev Senior Services - Ms. Thomas asked the Committee to continue supporting the needs of seniors in Evanston. Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services provides counseling and case management services for persons age 60 and older and their caregivers. Pat Carlson. Meals at Home — Ms. Carlson said that Meals at Home was recently informed that St. Francis Hospital will be increasing its cost for providing meals by 25%. The new price per day will be 55.75. Evanston Hospital charges 53.75 per day and the Swedish Retirement Home, which provides a limited number of meals, charges 54.00 per day. Ms. Carlson said that she has met with St. Francis and they agreed to reduce the new price for daily meals to $5.50. Over the course of a year, the purchase of meals from St. Francis will cost $9,000 - $10,000. Meals at Home is considering increasing the cost for meals by 25 cents per day. Currently, the full daily cost for meals if 57.50. The public hearing concluded at 8:05 p.m. Aid. Rainey thanked everyone for their comments. Sally Lufkin discussed the upcoming application schedule for 2005/06 CDBG funds. It will begin August 2, 2004 and applications will be due no later than September 17, 2004. She will be holding an application orientation meeting on August Yd at the Civic Center. Notices about the orientation session will be mailed in the coming week. Ms. Lufldn said that the application forms and information will once again be available on the City's website. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. First Quarter Reports from Agencies B. Newspaper Articles Accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. V. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT There was no additional staff/citizen comment Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -July 20, 2004 Page 4 V1. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Staff. / r ` Date: August 12. 1004 MEETING CANCELLATION The Noosing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for August 2004 has been canceled The next meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled for September 20, 2004 at 7:30 p n L in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. Evai"nstorr HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE NUNUTES Tuesday, September 21, 2004 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste. David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ASSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Lisa James, Horace Payne. Kenneth Rodgers STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender Office; Pat Dalton; Marta Amtson, Childcare Network; Suzanne Carlson, Gemariah Borough, Betty Sue Ester, Pam Thomas, Evanston Skokie Valley Senior Services; PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m.; she noted that a quorum was not present. However, she said that the Committee would conduct a public hearing on priority needs as a prelude to the preparation of the City' 200S-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JULY 20, 2004 MEETING David Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the minutes of Me Committee's July 20. 2004 meeting; the motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 3-0. Ill. PUBLIC HEARING ON PRIORITY NEEDS FOR THE 2003-2009 HUD CONSOLIDATED PLAN Aid. Rainey opened the public hearing at 7:43 p.m. and invited anyone present to address the Committee on identifying priority needs for inclusion in Evanston's next Consolidated Plan. Five persons spoke at the public hearing. Sue Carlson, 2679 Stewart, Evanston spoke about the declining senior population in Evanston, Interfaith Housing Center of the Northem Suburbs' Homesharing and Predatory Lending Prevention programs, and suggested that the City consider offering a subsidy to low income seniors, noting that Cook County provides one. A copy of Ms. Carlson's remarks is attached. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes - September 20, 2004 Page 2 Pamela Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services, echoed Ms. Carlson's comments regarding senior citizens In Evanston and urged that the City Include In its Consolidated Plan priority needs regarding housing and other services for seniors. Gemariah Borough,550 Custer, Evanston, spoke about the difficulty for finding programs for low Income single individuals; most housing, including rental housing, is priced too high for low Income persons. Betty Sue Ester, 1806 Gray, Evanston, spoke about the important of preserving and increasing the supply of affordable housing in Evanston, said that the Cityrs Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice be updated, commented on Housing Choice (Section 8) vouchers, and discussed briefly the work of the Citizen's Ughthouse Community Land Trust, of which she Is a member. Pat Dalton commented on the dosing of Evanston's beaches in the summer due to the presence of high bacteria counts. There being no further public comment regarding the Cityis proposed Consolidated Plan, Aid. Rainey closed the public hearing at 825 p.m. IV. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT There was no staff/citizen comment Vf. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting ad]oumed at 827 p.m. Staff: Date: January 11, 2005 _ J city of Evanston - HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, October 19, 2004 7:00 P.M. — City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center. MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptism, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDER/DECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:18 p.m., a quorum being present. [1. 2005/06 CDBG PROGRAM A. Stair Memorandum on Estimated Funding for the 2005/06 CDBG Program B. Estimated CDBG Funds to be Reallocated to 2005/06 CDBG Program Sally Lufkin said that Congress has not approved the FY 2005 funding bill for the CDBG program and has adjourned until after the general election. Therefore, the Committee will have to %vork from funding estimates in making its funding recommendations for the 2005106 CDBG program. In determining the estimated amount of funds for the 2005106 CDBG program, Ms. Lufkin said that she used the amount of fiords the City received for FY 2004105 as a starting point, or 52,395,000. Estimated program income for the coming year is 5200,000. Program income consists of payments made to the City's revolving loan fund and other payments, such as payment of liens placed on properties for work that the Cite has paid for (i.e., demolitions). Finally, $135,968 in funds from completed prior years' projects is included in the funding estimate. The total funding estimate is that the Committee will have $2,730,968 to allocate toward 2005/06 CDBG program. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 19, 2004 Page 2 Nis. Lufkin said that the Committee has received _50 applications for the 2005106 CDBG program: 30 from non -City organizations and 20 from City departments. Applications for 2005/06 CDBG funds total S4,413,544. The Committee will need to reduce the funding level requested by $1,682.576. Ms. Lufkin said that there are two CDBG categories in which the City is required, by law, to allocate no more than the designated amount (to each category). The Administration/Planning category, with a limit of 2Wo of CDBG funding, has a cap of $519,000. Total funding requests in this category are S539,921. Therefore, it will be necessary for the Committee to reduce funding in ttus category by $30,921. The Public Services category has a maximum funding level allowed of 15% of CDBG allocations. The City has received applications in this category totaling S 1,140,343; the maximum amount of funds which can be allocated to Public Services is $389,250. Therefore, the Public Services category will have to be reduced by S751,093. Ms. Lufkin said that funding estimates and proposed reallocations to the 2005106 CDBG program will be reviewed and updated, as appropriate, prior to the Committee's November 16'' meeting. C. Committee Review of Agency Applications Al Connections for the Homeless — Entry Point Will Sundblad, Executive Director, said that S16,000 is being requested for the Entry Point program. Entry Point provides information and referral to people who potentially %ill be homeless and looking for shelter or affordable housing , job training and other referrals which will help them stabilize their lives. Entry Point also provides outreach in Evanston to people who are chronically homeless and don't necessarily seek services but really need those services brought to them. This is done in a number of ways: providing clothing, use of a laundry or transportation — services through which Entry Point staff can develop a trusting relationship %%ith a chronically homeless person so that eventually they can reach the point where they are willing to accept alternative living arrangements (to being homeless, living on the streets). Entry Point recently started permanent housing program for disabled persons, who have been homeless, and providing supportive services on a permanent basis for those people so that they can successfully live in the housing provided by Connections. Aid. Rainey asked whether the permanent housing would be rental spaces or would Connections be purchasing a building. Mr. Sundblad responded that Connections is renting apartments. The permanent housing program is 80% funded by HUD. Connections needs to provide 20% in matching funds. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 19, 2004 Page 3 A2 Connections for the Homeless — HMIS Homeless Information Svstem Mr. Sundblad said that Connections for the Homeless is the lead agency for the Evanston Alliance on Homelessness (continuum), responsible for putting into operation a HUD - mandated HMIS system. Every community which receives funding from HUD for homeless services must set up a HMIS system in order to continue to receive said funding. He said that in many cases it is the county of city government which supports its continuum and will be able to fund and be lead operator of the HMIS system. The Evanston Alliance on Homelessness is not supported by the City, but is instead led by community volunteers and organizations in Evanston and members of City departments who work With homeless programs. The Alliance receives no funding support from the City of Evanston. The Alliance prepares the annual Continuum of Care, which is required to be submitted kith applications for HUD homeless program funding. HUD %%ants its continua to document and keep count of the persons they are serving, as well as to provide easier access regarding information and referrals. HUD will provide 800/a of the funding for the HMIS system, with the continua to provide the other 20%. Most other continua already have government support for their continua, but Evanston's continua are not organized in this way. Mr. Sundblad said that Connections is applying for the 20% match through the CDBG program, which is an eligible match, as neither Connections nor the other members of the Evanston Alliance have sufficient funding to meet the 20% match requirement. He added that Cook County is awarding CDBG funds to its continua to meet the match requirement. The Evanston Alliance on Homelessness is not a 501C3 and cannot receive federal funding. However, Connections is a not -for -profit organization under 50103, which is why Connections is applying for the 20% matching funding required for the HMIS system. Other organizations which will use the HR11S system are Housing Options, EEAC, Housing Opportunity Development Corporation, Youth Job Center and any other organization which received federal funds through the McKinney-Vento Act. Connections will be the lead agency, working with Service Point to set up the system, but the other agencies will at a later date have to install the program on their computers and maintain data about their homeless clients. Evanston receives approximately $600,000 a year in federal funding for homeless programs and services. HUD mandates that the HMIS system be in place this year. Connections used some technical assistance funds it had on hand to initially fund the system. Connections has also approached other funding organizations, but has not been successful in obtaining funds for operation of the HMIS system, because those organizations want to fund direct services. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 19, 2004 Page 4 Sis. Sundblad explained that each continua determines which organization will be the lead agency. The City of Chicago is creating their own management information system. Lake, DuPage and Kane Counties are using Service Point, which is the same service Connections is using. Committee members were very unhappy that Connections (and other continua) were having to seek matching funding to purchase, install and operate a management information system mandated by HUD. They commented on the high cost of operating the management information systems, which is Evanston will track approximately 3,000 people. Matters of confidentiality were also a concern. Committee members thought that perhaps the HM1S users could each contribute toward the 201/6 match, but Mr. Sundblad explained that there were only three agencies in Evanston which receive McKinney- Vento funds and ►►ill be using the system, with EEAC linking up at a later date. Ald. Bernstein said he would contact his Congressional representative for guidance about the way in which funding for the HMIS has been mandated. He thought that it was ridiculous the way funding recipients had to search out funding for a HUD -mandated system. A4 Evanston Ecumenical Action Council — Hospitality Center for the Homeless Lois Carlson, chairman of the board for EEAC, introduced Susan Murphy, executive director of EEAC and director of the Hospitality Center for the Homeless, and Eliot Zacker, employment counselor, which is housed at the Hospitality Center. The Hospitality Center is open Monday -Friday from 7:00 — 11:00 a.m. and is located at St. Mark's Church. 1509 Ridge. The clients of the Hospitality Center are guests of Hilda's Place, the overnight shelter. Ms. Carlson said that EEAC is requesting S6,000 in CDBG funds for the operation of the job counseling program at the Hospitality Center. Mr. Zacker reiterated that he works with clients from Hilda's Place, who are referred by caseworkers from Hilda's Place to the Hospitality Center. The referrals are people who are good prospects for seeking employment and being able to hold jobs. Mr. Zacker said that he works with each client to learn about them and discuss problems with maintaining previous jobs and other issues. The majority of his clients are male, a diverse population not of any one racial or ethnic group. After intake, Mr. Zacker discusses community resources that may be available, Department of Employment Security, and other resources. Next a resume is developed with the client and the job search begins. Mr. Zacker said that he continues to work with clients during the job search process, after obtaining a job and working to resolve other issues which impact a persons ability to hold down a job. He discussed the unique aspect of his work with homeless clients. Housing & Communiy. Development Act Committee Minutes —October 19, 2044 Page 5 Aid. Kent commended 'sir. Zacker on his work. He requested some examples of success stories of some of EEAC's clients. There was continue discussion about shelter services for homeless persons in Evanston and some of the problems with job placements and the ability of homeless persons or persons with limited incomes to commute to jobs. Susan Murphy discussed some of the other services provided by EEAC, Connections and other organizations in Evanston She said that the Hospitality Center serves about 25 persons a day. A8 Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads Council — Studio B & Nadie Come YO/Uninucly Me! Connie Willegal, Associate Executive Director for Girl Scouts/Illinois Crossroads Council, thanked the committee for its past funding support. She conveyed greetings from the Girls Scouts' chairman of the board and the four Evanston residents who are board members. Ms. Willegal said that there are 2,800 girls in six Evanston schools, many of whom live in the CDBG Target Area. About 47% are girls of color. The 2,800 girls are the target audience for the Girl Scout's Studio B and Uniquely Me program and Nadie Como Yo. The Girls Scouts offers these programs at Kingsley, Washington, Nichols, ETHS, Haven and Lincoln Schools. Between 24-51% are qualified for the free or reduced lunches program. Ms. Willegal said the Girls Scouts is requesting SI0,000 in CDBG funds under the Public Services category to bring their programs to 225 Evanston girls from low/moderate income families. Currently, the Girls Scouts have been promised 54,500 in leveraged funds from the Evanston Community Foundation, the Evanston Woman's Club and Square D, a Palatine based organization which has approved funding for use in other communities. The Girl Scouts is awaiting notification of an application for funding from the Kraft Employee Fund. The programs are targeted at two age groups: girls age 8 and older, who participate in Uniquely Me or Nadie Como Yo, and girls 11-17, who participate in Studio B. Girls drive the focus of the program. Some of the topics discussed in past programs include team building, leadership development, health and fitness, literacy (writing and financial management skills), career exploration and building self-esteem. Program goals are become your best self, build on making a difference, belong to a group and develop relationships, believe and develop your ideas of what is important. Projected outcomes of the Girl Scouts' programs in Evanston will be 60% will have a positive relationship with a female adult outside of the family, 50% will have improved decision making and planning skills, and 50% will feel empowered to make healthy, positive life choices. Outcomes are measured through pre and post assessments, focus groups and discussions with school administrators and the staff at Family Focus. Housing & Community Development Act Committee :Minutes —October 19, 2004 Page 6 In addition to collaboration with Evanston schools, the Girl Scouts also work with Family Focus. A large number of the youth participating in programs at Family Focus come from single parent families who are at or below poverty level. These girls are considered to be in a moderate to high risk category of experiencing school failure or participating in sexual activity, drug or alcohol abuse and criminal behavior. Poverty also contributes to negative outcomes such as poor self-esteem, lower school performance and poor help. The Girl Scouts would like to provide opportunities to girls for their self enrichment and expansion. A5 Evanston Junior Wildkits — Wildkits Scholarship & Tutoring Program Gabe Val, director of the program, said that for several years, McGaw YMCA had provided sponsorship and practice fields. The program has since returned to using Foster Field near the Family Focus and Fleetwood/Jourdain centers. The Junior Wildkits has experienced a re -energizing of the parent committee and they are now focusing on expansion and long-term financing for the program. About 120 youth a year are enrolled in the Junior Wildkits program. Fifty-one percent of participants receive fee assistance. The Junior Wildkits is seeking CDBG funding so that it %will not have to turn away low income participants. Last year they had to turn away 30 youth because of lack of funding for the subsidies. With the assistance of CDBG funds, the Junior Wildkits could expand the program and enable more low income youth to participate. The charge is $180 for registration; S 165 goes to paying for league fees, insurance, new equipment, reconditioned older equipment, maintaining equipment, rental fees for use of fields. S15 goes to the scholarship pool to help pay expenses for persons who cannot afford the full fee. Junior Wildkits also seeks funding support from Evanston businesses. other community funders and individual sponsors. An application is pending in the Root2Fruit program and the Junior Wildkits plan to apply for a grant from the Rotary. :tor. Gal discussed the value of the program to the youth and the community. He said that a growing number of participants are at risk youth. The program takes place in a neighborhood which needs this type of program the most. There are only two programs which serve over 100 youth; FAAM and Evanston Junior Wildkits. Alternatives to programs such as these are gang and other anti -social activity. The Junior Wildkits program has an academic progress report, which is required of every player on a weekly basis. Their teacher evaluates their academic performance as well as behavior in the classroom. If the student is receiving unsatisfactory remarks, then the head coach has certain things that he has to do and the student loses playing time until the academic performance report improves. It is also mandatory that the program participants attend Friday after school tutoring at Family Focus. The after school program has been very successful and the Junior Wildkits would = like to use CDBG funds to expand this program as well. Housing & Community Development Act Committee ,Minutes —October 14, 2004 Page 7 Mr. Val introduced Brian Mullin, a new parent in Junior Wildkits, and Maria Perryman, who shared their perspectives about the Evanston Junior Wildkits program and the benefits the program brings to their sons. Nis. Lufkin discussed the CDBG funding request, which lists the line items to be paid with CDBG. She said that it was her feeling that the majority of any CDBG funding go toward scholarship assistance for eligible families, instead of paying for field rental, insurance and other fees. Mr. Val explained that the program fees are built in to the line item budget, that a portion of each fee is allocated toward paying for insurance, field rental, etc. Ms. Lufkin explained that HUD and the committee would want the CDBG funds to be used for direct scholarship assistance and that if the Junior Wildkits were awarded a CDBG grant for 2005/06, then she offered to work with the Junior Wildkits in revising the CDBG line item budget so that it would more clearly reflect the fact that CDBG funds are being spent on subsidizing low income families' program fees. A6 First Base/Fisher ;Memorial -- First Base Homeless Prop -ram Mr. John Bamer Williams, program director, said that First Base has been located at Fisher Memorial AME Zion Church since 2002. Before relocating to Fisher Memorial, the program was based at First United Methodist Church. From 2:00 — 4:00 p.m. Monday -Friday, homeless persons can come to Fisher Memorial and receive messages, make phone calls, get help on preparing resumes, and help find employment and housing. First Base has increased the number of hours it is available to the community. It now does intake during the afternoon hours and then has the clients return the following morning for assessment and counseling. First Base works to coordinates its services with other homeless services providers in Evanston, such as Connections for the Homeless and EEAC. Mr. Willaims said that First Base works with churches and other organizations to help homeless persons find employment and housing. Mr. Williams discussed the need for additional shelter beds in Evanston and need for more affordable housing. lie also spoke about the efforts of Evanston Community Development Corporation and other not -for -profit housing development organizations to increase the supply of affordable housing. Mr. Williams said that some of First Base's clients are also guests of Hilda's Place. Mr. Williams said that First Base needs to hire additional counseling staff and upgrade its technology and a portion of the CDBG funding request will go towards additional staff. Mr. Williams clarified that the CDBG funding request is S 10,125. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 19, 2004 Page 8 A7 Gemariah Boroup-h — Buildins Code & Property Standards Film Ms. Borough said that she has formed a production company and is in the process of obtaining not -for -profit status. She showed a video tape of some of the preliminary filming she has done about building code and property standards issues. Ms. Borough said that the focus of her project was to residents how they can go about seeking assistance with getting building code violations corrected and how to work with the City's Property Standards inspectors. She said that the idea of putting together the film arose from her own experience and frustration of trying to get information and action on building code issues regarding her own residence. The intent of the film is to bring together tenants, landlords and city officials to address property standards concerns. There are many people in Evanston who have no idea about what to do to correct a property standards matter. Ald. Rainey said that the concept of a video to explain building and property standards issues is one of the most creative undertakings she has witnesses. No one else has thought of putting together a video on this topic. She suggested that Ms. Borough might want to partner with other persons or another organization to pull the project together, instead of trying to go it alone. Committee members also suggested contacting the City's Community Information Coordinator to get help publicizing and distributing the film. A 1 I — Leeal Assistance Foundation of Metronolitan Chicaizo — Evanston Leaal Services Bill Kolen, Supervising Attorney for the Evanston office, said the LAF provides free legal services to low income and elderly residents of Cook County. Evanston residents are provided legal services in civil legal matters. Some of the clients LAF provides services to includes victims of domestic violence, tenants with problems with landlords, legal advice and counseling services, consumer problems such as bankruptcy, foreclosure issues, and services to persons living with HIV/AIDS. LAF uses 150% of the poverty level in determining eligibility for low income, if residents are age 60 and above, they automatically qualify for services from LAF regardless of income level. The CDBG funding request of $12,000 is to partially fund the salary of one attorney in order to continue to provide legal services to Evanston residents. A28 McGaw YMCA — Residence Service Elevator Proiect Bill Geiger, Executive Director of McGaw YMCA, introduced Sarah Flax, development director and Elijah Brewer from the McGaw board of directors. Mr. Geiger discussed the programs offered by the YMCA: child care, fitness, swimming lessons, Camp Echo, Brillianteen, Youth in Government, Foster Reading Center, Active Older Adults. In FY 2004 the YMCA provided over SI A million in fee assistance and program subsidies. Over 5500,000 in fee assistance were provided in program participation support alone. Part of the "N—s" commitment to the community is that no one is turned away because of inability to pay. Over S900.000 in program subsidies were provided for child care, s%%im lessons, family programming and active older adults programming. Mr. Geiger said that the funding request before the Committee was to replace a 75 year old service elevator used by the "Y's" SRO residents. The service elevator is the only practical means to support 172 men living on the 3r°, 0' and 5"' floors of the building. The elevator is used to remove garbage, remove dirty linens and deliver clean linens. The useful life of this type of equipment is 50 years. Parts cannot be found for older elevators and have to be fabricated when they break. Once the project is started, it will have to be completed all at one time. A phased approach cannot be used because once certain critical parts are replaced, the new parts cause havoc with the rest of the system. The YMCA is heavily indebted and cannot borrow any further for this project. Fund raising prospects are not good either at this time. Most corporations and foundations are unwilling to fund capital projects, preferring instead to allocate funds toward programs. Current members and donors play a very important part in providing the $1.4 million in fee assistance and program subsidies. Up to 172 men live at McGaw YMCA, some short term and some for many years. The YMCA board believes that the residence provides affordable housing in Evanston. 88% of the persons staying at the YMCA are defined as very low income by government standards. 24% receive some form of government assistance. 52% are over the age of 51; 34% are black. 2% Hispanic. 24% have been referred to the "Y" by Evanston service providers. 31% were homeless prior to coming to the YMCA to Iive. Mr. Geiger thought that the YMCA residence was the only SRO for low income men in Evanston. David Schoenfeld asked if there were other sources of funding that the YMCA can access, in the event the Committee is unable to allocate the full amount requested, S300,00. Mr. Geiger discussed inquiries which had been made to some foundations, which might be able to support the "Y's" project with no results. The YMCA's borrowing capacity has been leveraged to its maximum level and it is not possible to use funds from other funders for capital repairs. Aid. Kent asked for additional information on how the cost estimates were calculated. Al2 Meals at Home — Food Delivery to Seniors & Disabled Patricia Carlson. director of Meals at Home, thanked the committee for past funding support. She said that Meals at Home delivers to homebound elderly and disabled persons in Evanston. Clients receive two complete meals a day — lunch and dinner. All meals are delivered to clients by approximately 300 volunteers Monday — Saturday, including holidays. The volunteers use their own vehicles and do not get reimbursed for gas. Medically prescribed diets as well as general meals are provided. Should volunteers notice a change in their clients' health or well being, they contact the Meals at Home staff', who notify family, friends or agencies. In addition, a free, friendly visit program is offered to interested clients. Food is purchased from kitchens at Evanston Housing & Community Development Act Committee Nlinates —October 19, 2004 Page 9 Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and Three Crowns Park. Ms. Carlson said that St. Francis Hospital increased its charge for meals by 20%. St. Francis Hospital is the programs largest food provider and the increased cost wall mean a $10.000 increase to Meals at Home's annual budget. The CDBG funding request is to subsidize the cost of meals for low income Evanston residents who are unable to pay the full daily fee. Approximately % of the program clients live in Evanston. Ms. Carlson distributed information on Evanston clients. Currently, Meals at Home is subsidizing 44 out a total of 95 Evanston residents. Food paid for by the Department of Rehabilitation is not included in the CDBG funding request. In calculating the CDBG funding request, Ms. Carlson multiplied the daily subsidy by five days and then multiplied that figure by 52 weeks. The total came to S38,896. Total daily payment by full fee clients is $7.75, though the daily fee was increase to $8.00. If all Evanston clients were paying the full fee, the total would be S88,660. The cost to deliver meals is actually $9.98 per delivery. The amount varies from year to year, but is considerably below the national average. A27 Hemenwav United Methodist Church -- Handicavved Accessibility Proiect Rev. Lisa Teloman, pastor of Hemenway United Methodist Church, said that Hemenway provides a food pantry, open twice a month on Friday, operate a free medical equipment supply loan program, provides winter outwear clothing, and operates the Soup at Six soup kitchen one night a week. Hemenway is requesting CDBG funds to cover part of the cost of installing an elevator to make all levels at Hemenway accessible. The church has been unable to provide certain services to residents because the building was not accessible. In order to better serve Evanston residents, Hemenway needs to make the building accessible. In addition to the CDBG funding request. the church has applied for a S50,000 loan and is seeking funding from other granting organizations. Rev. Teloman said that approximately two thirds of the people visiting Hemenway each week are coming to visit the food pantry and soup kitchen. The soup kitchen serves up to 100-150 people each week. The food pantry is serving up to 100 families each Friday. Many of the people who visit the food pantry and soup kitchen are elderly or have a disability. Hemenway would like to offer more programs to the community, but needs to make accessibility improvements in order to do so. Rev. Teloman discussed the budget for the project. The first goal is to install the elevator and built an addition to the building to house the elevator. Hemenway has funds on hand to pay for the purchase of the elevator. It is proposed that installation be paid with CDBG funds, other funding sources and the loan. The cost for the elevator and the addition is $125,000. The second priority is to make the basement bathrooms accessible. Should all grant requests and the loan be approved, the total funding would not exceed the estimated cost of the project. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 19, 2004 Page 10 Sally Lufkin clarified with Rev. Teloman that the CDBG funds requested to construct the elevator shah housing is 575,000. A3 Evanston Communitv Defender — Evanston Communitv Defender's Office Bob Roy. Managing Attorney of the Evanston Community Defender Office, provides legal services in criminal courts and juvenile matters along with social work counseling and intervention on behalf of clients. All clients are low income; 95% are Evanston residents; 9206 are minority; 75% are male; 55% live in households headed by one parent, usually the mother. 83% of clients are high school age or younger; 72% are age 17 or younger. The Community Defender's Office has built a program which provides a valuable service to the community through its combination of social work and legal representation. Community Defender staff spends between 3040 hours with a client; 35- 40% of the time is spent outside of court. At times the Defender Office has considered charging a fee, but has not yet done so — many of the families served are extremely low income. Mr. Roy discussed the youth court, which has been a difficult to establish, due to need for funding and curriculum. The Community Defender has had conversations with several schools. During the summer months it is difficult to contact administrators and when the school year begins, the curriculum has already been set and it is difficult to add programs. Mr. Roy added that he thinks that a home for the youth court has been found and he is now seeking an institution or a law firm which will adopt the youth court. It will cost approximately S 15,000 for a part-time person. Funding for the youth court is not included in the CDBG request. [[i. COMMUNICATIONS A. Updated Committee Meeting Schedule B. National Community Development Association's Washington Reports for September 24, 2004 and October 8, 2004 C. Interfaith Housing Center fall 2000 Newsletter Accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. IV. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Aid. Rainey updated the committee on two vacancies on the committee. Mary Friedl brought to the Committee's attention a concern she had that federal funds can only be distributed to entities which comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. American with Disabilities Act and other federal acts. She said that according to her understanding of Section 504, a program site must already be in compliance %ith federal accessibility requirements into the receive CDBG funds. She suggested that applicants should complete an accessibility compliance form as part of their CDBG applications. Sally Lufkin said that she did not have this understanding and thought that CDBG funds could be used to make buildings accessible. She said that she would clarify this issuc with the City's HUD representative and report to the committee. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at l 1:00 P.m. Staff: Date: November 11. 2004 NULL I NO -IMPROVED, HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MEETING Tuesday, November 16, 2004 6:30 P.M. - City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. John Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein. Lisa James, Ald. Rainey, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Ali. Kent CHAIR. Aid. Rainey STAFF PRESENT: Salty Lufkin, Mary Baeske. Therese Borja, Paul D'Agostlno, ftbwt Domaimr. Doug Gaynor. Paula Haynes, David Jennings Mary Rodin, Lloyd Shepard, James Stafford, James Wolinski OTHERS PRESENT: Sign up sheet attached to minutes. I. -CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey noted a quorum present and called the meeting to order at 7.00 p.m. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 19, OCTOBER 28, AND NOVEMBER 3, 2004 MEETINGS Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved approval of the October 19, October 28, and November 3, 2004 minutes. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimausty. Ill. APPROVAL OF PROPOSED COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE FOR 2005 Aid. Bernstein moved approval, seconded by Lisa .lames. Motion passed unanimnusty, IV. 200S106 CDB¢ PROGRAM Sally L dkin reported that HUD had recently released estimated allocation numbers for the CDBG Program for the Year 2005. Sho explained that the figures were estimates because Congross had not finalized HUD's funding yet, but was expected to do so in the need week. The esamated CDBG allocation Is $2,368,000, *blch is $27.000 less than was allocated for 2004. Added to this amount Is Program Income in the amount of UW,000 and Reallocated Funds of $142,129 for ,foist estfnated fur►ds available to livid 2005108 CDBG projeda of $2,710,129. _The Adriilnlatration Planning Category has a lima# of 20% of HUD funding (estimated HUD allocation and estimated Program Income for 2005 - $2,568,000) for a cap of S513,600. Applications In that category total $573,696, leaving $60,096 to be reduced. In the Public Services Category the City is limited to 15% of the HUD Alto .ration and Program r ; • _ . Income for the amwA year. (20U4). Ms. Lufkin said that she had incTeased the esttmalad _ Pm r { Oncome to $250,000. Added with the $2,368,000 in 2005 Entitlement funds, the tBoW will "' tit; S ,t318,OD0. 159E 0 fi - for public services is $392,700. The total request in this cadsgory is S1,040,882, leavksg $60,182 to be cut from Public Servkm s funding requests. Md. Rainey sold that thane are open projects dating as far back as 1994 dud are slttfing wittf unspent funds. The total amourrt is S322,000 that is unspent. She asked the Commiftee to discuss the disbursement of these funds. David Schoenfeld moved to reallocate the (2001/02) Fleetwood Jourdain landscaping allocation of $75,000, 2000/01 Fleetwood/Jourdain landscaping allocation of $103.256 and $20.000 in 2004I05 funds for the police video camera. He said he would like to see this money reallocated to the Mason Park project. Ald. Rainey seconded the motion. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked to hear from Doug Gaynor (Park, Forestry 8 Recreation Director). Aid. Rainey clarified that the first amount was from Year 2001 (Year 26) -- Fleetwood/Jourdain Landscaping - $75,000 and 2000-2001 (Year 25) landscaping $103,256. Mr. Gaynor said that both projects had been combined to improve the fields at the back of Fleetwood Jourdain Center. This project has been delayed because of negotiations with School District 65 that has ownership of the land. The City cannot move forward with the project until the City has a long-term lease or owns the land. He said he has spoken with Dr. Murphy (School District 65) and he suggests that Me City Council discuss terms of a long-term lease and send them to the School Board. This matter is on the Human Services Committee agenda for the December, following that meeting It will be on the agenda for the City Council meeting of December 13. If approved by the City Council, it will then go to the School Board for their deliberation. Mr. Gaynor said that he Is hoping for an answer from the School Board by February of 2005. Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked how long it would be before the allocated money would be spent. Mr. Gaynor said that he thought the project would go out to bid a coupis of months after receiving approval from the School Board. Next, the City would have to negobaate with Little League Baseball and Little League Football to determine when theme use of Foster Field could be fitted in without impacting their schedule. He thought that the project could be done In the Fiscal Year 200512006. Mr. Gaynor suggested that the Committee cold reduce the funds allocated to the amount needed for a consultant fee so that a consultant could be hired. After the project is developed, it could go out to bid and then In 2004 actually do the sonsbuction. Md. Bernstein moved to amend Mr. Schoenfeld's motion to 'reallocate all but $25,000 " Mr. Schoenfeld accepted the amendment. This brought the proposed reallocation to $173,256. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Rainey said that a motion is needed to reallocate $142,129 to the 2005/08 CDBG program. Aid. Bernstein made a m klon to approve the reallocation of $142,129 to 2005/06 CDBG program. Motion seconded by W. Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. Including the reallos attion of $315,385, the Committee had $2,883,385 to allocate to 2005/06 CDBG activities. Committ" Funding RecommendaVons for the 2005I06 CDBG Pro cram Administration - 5513.600 Can David Schoenfeld moved to allocate $330,000 to CDBG Administration, $88,600 to Housing Advocacy, and $95.000 to MBEIEBE program. Motion seconded by Lisa James, for a total of $513,600 In the Adminisbvik n/Ptanning category. Ald. Jean -Baptiste suggested increasing the alocation to the MNWEBE to $117.000, reducing Housing Advocacy to $80,000 and CDBG Administration to $322,000. Ald. Rainey said that If the City Is going to take a strong stance an the building of Sherman Avenue Garage, the City is going to have to stand behind that stance. She said that the MIWIEBE could be allocated more money by the City Council. Ald. Rek" moved to amend the motion to $329,208 for CDBG Administration, $87,524 for Housing Advocacy and $94.268 to MNY/EBE program. Adding $1,300 to Horsing Advocacy for a total of $88.824 and $1,300 to MNVIEBE for a total of $95,568 for a grand total of $513,600. The amendment was accepted by Mr. Schoenfeld. flLblic Services Cateoory - 5392.700 CaD Lase James nxri t to fund Entry Point $13,000, Homeless Management Information Systems s0 CommunityD . % Office $50,000, Hospitality Center $4,000, Evanston Jr. Wadkft $2,500, First Base $5,000. Building Code and Property Standards Video grogram $2,500, Girl Scouts/lliinois G J... Council $4.500, Homesharing Program $14,000, Predatory Lending Prevention $5,000. Evanston Legal Services $10,000, Food Delivery to Seniors $10,000, Psychiatric Services for Parents $5,000, Evanston Senior Musk: Initiative $5,000, Computer Application and Job Training $0, No Name Theater $25,000. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior 2 Services $25,000, Open Studio Project $5.000, Legacy Project $10.000. Youth Job Center S70,000, Domestic Violence Services $38,500, Graffiti Removal Program $28,700, Fancy Can $6,000. Senior Crime Prevention $25,000, Neighborhood Youth Services $20,000. Summer Youth Employment Administration $50,000, totaling $427,700. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Ms. James modified her recommendation to recommend funding for the Evanston Community Defenders Office $40.000. legal Services $7,500, Youth Job Center $66,500, and GrWN Removal S20,000. Accepted by Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Rainey moved to amend the Graffiti Removal to $29,900. Aid. Bernstein seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Schoenfeld moved to reduce funding of the No Name Theater to $0. His concern was that No Name Theater was not receiving money from any other source at this time and only partially funding a project that requires major funding would not be much help. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said Me giving them enough money for rent would anchor them and give them a home to get things Ong. He suggested that the Committee reduce the allocation to $15.000 and see If Fleetwood JourdainlFarnily Focus could also accommodate them for that rental amount for the year. No Name would not be using the space year round. Aid. Rainey said she would support the amendment If In the next two weeks the Committee can receive a plan from No Name Theater and Family Focus regarding a rental plan for the Fleetwood/Jourdain theater. Aid. Bernstein stated that he loved the project, but it was premature. The No Name Theater needed to do some ground work and obtain other funding. Ms. Radovic-Sutr of No Name Theater said that $15,000 would pay for rent of the theater space. Aid. Rainey proposed an amendment to the motion of No Name Theater to award them $15,000 and for them to come back to the Committee with a plan. Mr. Schoenfeld accepted the amendment. In reply to a question from the Committee, Ms. Hill (Director of Family Focus) replied that she was open to negotiation. The vote was 2 ayes and 3 nayes. Motion failed. Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to allocate $71,300 to the Youth Job Center. He said the Youth Job Center has shown a record of staying the course In temps of training and placing youth with &Went employers and k*oducing new ideas. Motion failed for lack of a second. Housina Aid. Rainey moved that Community Development AdminWration be funded at $108,000, Code Compliance at $250.000, Housing Rehab, $240,000, Revolving Loan S200,000, Handyman Program $12,000. and Miner Repairs and Painting Assistance $150.000. Motion seconded by Aid. Jean Baptiste. Motion passed unanimously. M021 orovemenk Aid. Rainey moved to fund Neighborhood Public Improvements $25.000, East Wall Window Replacement at Fleetwood/Jourdain $75,000, Mason Parts $380,000. Ailey Improvement Program $150,000, Block Curb and Sidewalk Program $175,000. Special Assessment Program for Alleys $80,000, and Brummel Park Ligtifing $16,000. Motion seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Ramey explained that the Special Assessment Program for Alleys is a fund for lowdncome people cItywide to apply for so they don't have to absorb the additional burden of a special assessment to pay for the paving of the alleys. Motion passed unanimously. Public Facilities Ald. Rainey mcomrnended funding for Family. Focus at $50,000, Handicapped Acoessibility project at Hemmingway Church at $50,000, the YMCA $W.000, and Reba at $W,0i10.-- Aid: Jean - Baptiste seconded the motion. Aid. Rainey explained that her funding recornmendations of the Public Facilities would make it possible for each th toldo e most important thing'of their proposed projects, with the a 6*lon of the YMCA, which could possibly raise other funds., Motion passed unanimously. :' , f.conomic Develooment Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to allocate S20.000 to Neighborhood Storefront Improvement, and $40,0D0 for the Evanston Community Development Corporation. Lisa James seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Mary Rodino reported that the total allocated so far was $2,927.300. As there is $2,883,385 available, $43.915 needed to be cut. David Schoenfeld made a motion to reduce funding to Mason Park to $360,000. Ald. Rainey seconded the motion. Motion spprovrd unanimously. Aid. Rainey moved to reduce the funding the Evanston Community Development Corporation to $30,000. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Vote: 2 ayes, 3 nays. Motion failed. Aid. Bernstein asked to amend that motion to fund ECDC at $25.000. Ald. Jean -Baptiste said that this new development corporation was operating without help from any funding source, Vvd it is all volunteers trying to help their conxnunity. Aid. Bernstein said it was his understanding that the $80.000 requested was for personnel. To the extent that there are good volunteers with this corporation, he thought that the $25,000 would be a help to them. He also thought that there could be TIF funds available. The motion to fund the Evanston Community Development Corporation at $25,000 passed unanimously. Aid. Rainey made a motion to reduce the Police Youth Services request to $15,0D0. She said that there is other grant money for this program and the Police Department could also go to the Citya general fund. Aid. Jean -Baptiste seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Rainey stated that there remained S3,915 to cut. Mr. Schoenfeld sold that the Committee has stayed pretty close to last years allocations for the agencies funded with one exception — the Evanston Community Defender. The current allocation in orgy 2/3 of what it was funded last year. He moved to increase the funding to the Evanston Community Defender to $45,000, Aid. Rainey seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Jean Baptiste moved to allocate $15,000 to No Name Theater. Motion seconded by Lisa James. Vote: 2 ayes, 3 nayes. Motion felled. -- Aid. Jean-Raptiste moved to fund the BuddkV Codes Video Project at $0. Motion seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Rainey said that she thought the propose! was one of the most creative projects she had seen. However, she felt it needed to partner with an established agency. She supported this kind of effort and wanted to fund It at $2,5D0. Aid. Jean -Baptiste withdrew his i ! motion. Aid. Bernstein said that this was not a time to reduce legal services for poor people. The R r--EvarwWn Canurnmity Defender is 3 Individuals plus some parl4ime people who donate their time, .. and that the Committee might as well not funnel thern than to fund them at an amount less they got last year. He moved to fund the Evanston Community Defender at $60.000. Motion seconded by W. Schoenfeld. Motion passed 4 ayes —1 nay. • { Aid. Bernstein moved to fund the legal Assistant Foundation at $10,000. Motion seconded by t , W. Schoenfeld. Motion passed unsnirnousily, i ,Aid. Bernstein mowed to reduce the allocation of the Music Institute from $5,000 to $0. v8a r a James seconded the moillon. Motion to reduce the Music Institute at $0 passed . _ ►, unanimously. 4 0 Mr. Schoenfeld moved to deduct$2,000 each from Housing Code Compliance, Housing Code Administration, Minor Repairs and Painting Assistance, and Community Development Administration. Motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion passed unanimously. Aid. Jean -Baptiste moved to fund the Evanston Community Defender at $47,500. Motion seconded by Aid. Rainey. Motion passed: 4 ayes -1 nay. $915 still needed to be cut in order to bring the 200 b% CDBG funding recommendation to a total of $2,883,385, Ms. Lufkin agreed to accept a reduction in funding for the CDBG Administration by $915 to $328.293. Ald. Rainey stated that tonight the Committee had allocated $2,883,385. Lisa James moved to approve the 2005W CDBG recommended allocations amounting to $2,883,385. Motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion passed unanimously. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, it adjourned at 9:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, MIVY Executive Secretary Planning Division _ _ 1-. . f` �. - ': f J1 - 4. ti � � � i � .! l ..�F_.. _,f�i,��i �7, r __._. . .y _ _ f ikSi' � -��J" � �� .:I L ;:Y Q;!'�• � •',fit _ _ �. '�r.. I --- - .- ��.... � _ � �ii - � �� i;, i _ 7 - �_ , ` -- � ;; - .. ,;t. )j, � i , is CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 16, 2004 FY 2005/06 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS APPLICANT COMMITTEE I PROGRAM NAME JAPPR!V"M REQUEST 2005106 L C MENDAIX* I ADMINISTRATIONIPLANNING I Cl CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTIPLANNING ADMINISTRATION s 333,200 i 358.775 $32.8,293 C2 CITY - HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION jCDBG HOUSING ADVOCACY PROGRAM 89,524 00,000 8Il.824 C3 CITY - FINANCE DEPARTMENT MINORITY, W01NEN, EVANSTON BUSINES 96.288 124.>i21 95.566 ADMINISTRATION TOTAL: Is 519,000 I S 573.6961S 512AM IADMINISTRATION CATEGORY CAP: $513,600 TO BE CUT: $60,096 10ver (under) cap: Admin s (915) PUBLIC SERVICES Al CONNECTIONS FOR THE HOMELESS ENTRY POINT $ 11,939 S 18,000 $13,000 A2 CONNECTIONS FOR THE HOMELESS HMIS (HOMELESS MANAGEMENT INFO. S -: 0 10,000 s0 A3 EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEFENDER EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEFENDER'S OF 59,043 85.000 47,500 A4 EVANSTON ECUMENICAL ACTION COUNCIL HOSPITALITY CENTER FOR THE HOMELE 2,488 61000 4,000 A5 EVANSTON JR. WILDKITS WIIDKITS SCHOLARSHIP AND TRAINING 0 5.000. 2,500 AB FIRST BASE/FISHER MEMORIAL AME ZION CHURCF FIRST BASE - HOMELESS PROGRAM 4,975 10.125 51000 A7 GEMARIAH BOROUGH BLDG. CODE & PROPERTY STANDARDS F 01 37,1001 2,500 AS GIRL SCOUTS/R-LINOIS CROSSROADS COUNCIL (STUDIO B 3 NADIE COMO YOVUNIQUELY ft 4,0751 10,0001 4,500 A9 INTERFAITH HOUSING CENTER JHOMESHARING PROGRAM 14,922 22,0001 14,000 A10 HOUSING CENTER +PREDATORY LENDING PREVENTION 4,9751 10,0001 5,000 All JINTERFAITH LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOUNDATIO*HICAGO 1EVANSTON LEGAL SERVICES 9,947 j 12,000 1 10.000 Al2 IMEALS AT HOME FOOD DELIVERY TO SENIORS AND DISABI 9,9471 30" 1 10,000 A13 (METROPOLITAN FAWLY SERVICES PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES FOR PARENTS 4,975 7.0001 '-18.0001 5,000 A14 iMUSIC INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO EVANSTON SENIOR MUSIC INITIATIVE _ 0 I . 0 A15 (NATIONAL ABLE NETWORK, INC. COMPUTER APPLICATIONS II; JOB TRAININ 01 250,0001 0 A16 INATIONAL CENTER FOR LOVE & BELONGING NATIONAL CENTER FOR LOVE 5 BELONGII 01 WITHDRAWN 0 CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 16, 2004 FY 2005106 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS # APPLICANT A17 NO NAME THEATRE. LTD. A18 NORTH SHORE SENIOR CENTER A19 OPEN STUDIO PROJECT A20 SHOREFRONT NFP A21 ATHLETES FOR BETTER EDUCATION/ TREASURE CHEST FOUNDATION COLLAS. A22 YOUTH ,JOB CENTER OF EVANSTON A23 YWCA-EVANSTONINORTHSHORE C4 CtTY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C5 ICITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTIPLANNING C6 !CITY -POLICE DEPARTMENT C7 lary - POLICE DEPARTMENT C8 CITY - HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION r.. 2004105 1 2005= COMMIII PROGRAM NAME APPROPRIA iO REQUEST tECOMMENDAT! NO NAME THEATRE, LTD. 0 100.000 0 EVANSTONISKOKIE VALLEY SENIOR SE 24,870 36,400 25,000 ART & ACTION PROGRAM FOR AT RISK YC 5,968 71500 51000 THE LEGACY PROJECT 0 22,000 10.000 TRIPLE (AAA) MENTORING & SKILLS CAMF 0 AMDRAwN 0 JOB READINESS, JOB PLACEMENT AND F 79,588 95.000 71,300 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SERVICES 35,813 38,500 38,'S00 GRAFFITI REMOVAL PROGRAM 29,8451 34,3001 29,900 ADOPT A FANCY CAN 1 4.9751 5.000 1 51000 SENIOR CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM 22.892 27,407 20,000 NEIGH80RHOOD YOUTH SERVICES 0 80,550 � 15,000 SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT ADMINISTI 59.5901 801000 50,000 PUBLIC SERVICES TOTAL: S 3911,81513 1 040.8a2 1$ 392 780 PUBLIC SERVICES CAP: $M.700 _ . TO BE CUT: $648,182 over (wider) aA P8 $ - CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 16, 2M FY 2005/06 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS APPLICANT C9 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C10 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C11 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C12 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C13 CITY-HEALTHIHUMAN SERVICES A20 CEDAINEIGHBORS AT WORK C14 CITY - COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT C15 CITY - PARKSIFORESTRY & RECREATION C16 CITY - PARKS/FORESTRY & RECREATION C17 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS C19 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS C19 CITY - PUBLIC WORKS A25 RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT 2004105 PROGRAM NAME PROPRIA HOUSING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRA S 100.000 S HOUSING CODE COMPLIANCE 240,000 HOUSING REHAB ADMINISTRATION 230,000 PROGRAM INCOME: REVOLVING LOAN FL 200,000 HANDYMAN PROGRAM 151000 MINOR REPAIRSIPAINTING ASSISTANCE 160,000 2005MO COMMIII REQUEST 6COMMENDATIOK 115,300 i 106,000 MAW 248.000 263,700 236.000 200AW MAN 12,000 1Z,000 1413AM 148,000 MOUSING TOTAL: is 945,000 15 1,019A00 1$ 952.Oa0 PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS NEIGHBORHOOD PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT 3 - S 25,000 $ 25.000000 EAST WALL WINDOW REPLACEMENT - FL 110,155 75. 75 m MASON PARK & MASON PARK FIELDHOU . 150,000 380,000 350.000 ALLEY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 110,527 300AW 150,000 BLOCK CURBISIDEWALK PROGRAM 65,000 100,000 7SA00 SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ASSISTANCE PRO 0 90,000 80.000 ,BRUMMEL PARK LIGHTING 45,000 16.000 16,000 1PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS TOTAL: $ 480.682) S 98GAM I $ - MAW CITY OF EVANSTON As of November 16, 2004 FY 2005/06 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS AND COMMITTEE FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS APPLICANT A26 FAMILY FOCUS. INC. A27 HEMENWAY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH A25 MlcGAW YMCA A29 REBA EARLY LEARNING CENTER C20 ICITY-COMMUNITYDEV/PLANNING AM EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COR Total Applications: 50 Agency Applications: 30 City Departments' Applkatiow 20 PROGRAM NAME 1APPR0PRtAT101j REQU/EST 06 iRECCOMM DATIW PUBLIC FACILITIES i WEISSBOURD44OLMES FAMILY FOCUS C $ 47.500 S 80.899 S 50.000 HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBILITY PROJECT 0 100,000 50,000 RESIDENCE SERVICE ELEVATOR PROJEC 0 272,126 50.000 RENOVATIO1" ENHANCEMENT PROJECT 0 144.855 50,000 (PUBLIC FACKJ"ES TOTAL.: 1 $ 47,500 1 $ 597,8E0 1 $ 200,000 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEIGHBORHOOD STOREFRONT IMPROVE1 $ 15,000 f S 40,000 =" $20.000 EVANSTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT t 0 ' 80.000 25,000 {ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOTAL: 1 $ ISAW I $ 120.000 1 $ 45,000 GRAND TOTAL: $2,398,997 $4,337,858 $2-,883,385 TOTAL FUNDS AVAILABLE: 2,883,385 2,883,385 TO BE CUT: $0-$1,454,473 - - Negative number above means ,there are still dollars that can be allocated. (�l .. ]� ��� � � �.�(,'+Yi�lllvl'�( / '/ `/ C. '=i � � . ���i ice: � � /� r `•'it"�'i/�� i i � G' L IAt 7 i ✓„ A4(,{ L (,,I I. J 1-w " v�� �f X7 ,tati] `� •- -7All -• AX, T"Oj. s s no sr G1r`) INTOR-W c� `4 F, fi 7w 0 im- HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE Eva stop MINUTES Tuesday, December 7, 2004 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Ald. Jean -Baptiste MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Kent, Aid. Rainey, Lisa James. David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: John Berner Williams, First Base; Phyllis Arist, Rosine Andre- Trippet, Gemariah Borough, Mary Signatur, Pam Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services; Michele R. Taylor, Gail Schechter, Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs; Jean Keleher, Mike Mortell, Richard Seaman, Emerald Young PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Acting Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM AId. Jean Baptiste called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. He said that due to illness and other circumstances, none of the other Committee members would be present at this meeting. Therefore, the Committee will not be able to vote on any motions, due to lack of a quorum. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he would, however, conduct the Public Hearing on the proposed One Year Action Plan for FY 2005/06 and the draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan and comments received would be included in the minutes for the meeting, which will be read by the other members of the Committee. II. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2005I06 CDBG PROGRAM BUDGET AND PROPOSED ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2005/06 AND DRAFT 2005-2009 HUD CONSOLIDATED PLAN A. Staff Presentation of Proposed One Year Action Plan for FY 2005106 Sally Lufkin discussed the One Year Action Plan for FY 2005106. She said that the One Year Action Plan is derived from the 2005/06 HUD Consolidated Plan and discusses how the City plans to use its 2005 CDBG, HOME and ESG funds, including descriptions of CDBG funding recommendations made by the Housing & Community Development Act Committee on November 16, 2004. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 7, 2004 Page 2 B. Staff Presentation on draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan Ms. Lufkin said that the Consolidated Plan is a five year planning document which is required by HUD (U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development) of its grantees who receive funding from HUD's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME investment Partnerships (HOME). Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) and HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons with Aids) programs. The Consolidated Plan is a document which looks ahead and set goals for things the City would like to do over the period covered by the plan. Ms. Lufkin said that the draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan is the third five year plan the City has prepared and that it will take effect March 1, 2005 and cover the period 311 /05 — 2/28110. The City's Consolidated Plan is guided by the following national objectives set out by HUD: it addresses (1) decent, safe and sanitary housing in Evanston: i.e., a discussion about fair housing and increasing the supply of affordable housing; assistance to low income families so that they do not become homeless or are forced to move to other communities; (2) suitable living environment: safety and livability of neighborhoods (i.e.. sidewalks and other Infrastructure kept In good repair), crime prevention; and (3) expanded economic opportunities which provide job creation and retention, issues which affect working families such as access to affordable day care. The Housing & Community Development Act (CD) Committee oversees the administration of the CDBG program and makes grant awards of the City's annual CDBG funds. The Evanston Housing Commission overseas the administration of the City's HOME program and makes recommendations to the City Council' Planning & Development Committee on housing policy and affordable housing projects. The City Council's Human Services Committee oversees administration of the Emergency Shelter Grants program. Ms. Lufkin said that the Consolidated Plan contains a detailed demographic analysis based on 2000 census data, a detailed housing market analysis and housing needs assessment and a chapter which discusses all non -housing community development in Evanston. There is also a chapter which includes a strategic plan: goals the City has set for itself for the next five years. Ms. Lufkin said that composition of the 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan has been taking ptace over the past few months beginning and is, basically, a continuation of policies and practices which the City Council has approved in previous Consolidated Plans. Preparation for this Consolidated Plan started with a Public Hearing on September 21, 2004 at which public comment was invited on issues the community thinks should be included in the City's next Consolidated Plan. Planning Division staff conducted two focus group meetings and will conduct one more later in December. One of the focus groups was an internal meeting with Community Development Department staff to discuss priority needs. A second focus group was held in October with current and former CDBG program grantees, following the same format as the one with the Community Development Department. in a couple of weeks Ms. Lufkin said that she will be meeting with the Childcare Network's parents' advisory council, parents of Early Head Start children to gain their input. . Ms. Lufkin concluded her remarks stating that the 30 day public comments period on the draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan opens as of today s date. The Consolidated Plan can also be found on the City's website at www.chafevanston.Orci and can be downloaded.. In addition to comments received at this meeting during the public hearing, Ms. Lufkin said that written comments could be submitted in writing or via email to the Planning Division office up through January 7, 2005. Comments will be addressed and incorporated into the Consolidated Plan where appropriate. Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- December 7, 2004 Page 3 Aid. Jean -Baptiste added that the thrust of the 2005.2009 HUD Consolidated Plan is that it represents the Ideal. As many grantees know, the Committee has more requests for CDBG funding than it has funds to distribute. However, it is important to remain focused and to work toward these goals. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he expects that funding levels for the CDBG program will remain at approximately the same levels as has been the case for the previous three to four years. Aid. Jean -Baptiste noted that, as the Consolidated Plan and One Year Action Plan are being read, the reader should keep in mind that the City has to work within the confines of the funding it receives from HUD and other granting organizations. A large portion of the City's budget goes for employees' salaries and benefits. The new condominiums which have recently been built do generate tax revenues, but the tax revenues are spread out to fund many City expenses. Aid. Jean -Baptiste also commented on the number of tax exempt properties owned by Northwestern University, the two hospitals and numerous churches. He said that the development in the downtown business district was a strategy of the City Council in order to increase business activity, so that the City could benefit from the additional revenue generated. . CDBG monies have been able to sustain a number of programs in areas such as housing, public services and economic development, including the City using some of the funds for preservation of the housing stock and property standards through code inspections. Evanston has the largest number of Housing Choice (Section 8) voucher holders than any of the northern suburbs. Aid. Jean -Baptiste discussed the efforts by the City to create and retain affordable housing units and the work of the Inclusionary Zoning Committee. Public Hearing Aid. Jean -Baptiste called the Public Hearing to order at 7:45 p.m. Rosine Andre-TrinDet Ms. Andre-Trippet said that because of the job market. more young people, both with or without a college education, are having difficulty finding a job which pays enough so that they can afford housing in Evanston. She related a story about a young man living in her house, who at one time was able to live Independently, but now cannot afford rent because he was laid off from both of his jobs. She said that he stays with several families. rotating from house to house. Ms. Andre- Trippet said that her concern was for the youth, who cannot find affordable housing in Evanston. Aid. Jean -Baptiste discussed the TIF proposal for the Church/Dodge area in the 5'" ward. He said that one of the components of the proposed redevelopment is to provide job training and job placement. He added that there is a proposal for a rent -to -own building to be built at Darrow and Church. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that the City is not really equipped to address problems of unemployment. Gail Schechter. Interfaith Housina Center of the Northern Suburbs Ms. Schechter said that she was pleased to see some of the October focus group comments incorporated into the Consolidated Plan as priority needs, particularly a priority housing need about fair housing. Ms. Schechter asked whether the City had completed an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. Ms. Lufkin responded that the City is in the process of completing the analysis, as part of the consolidated planning process. She said that while not required to submit the Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 7, 2004 Page 4 Analysis of Impediments, the City will certify to HUD that it has completed an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice at the time it submits its Consolidated Plan to HUD. Ms. Schechter suggested that the City consider being more thorough In its Analysis of Impediments than HUD requires. John Bamer Williams. First Base/Fisher Memorial AME Zion Church Mr. Williams said that in addition to representing the First Base homeless prevention program, he is also a board member of the Evanston Community Development Association and Reba Place Development Corporation. Mr. Williams said that the supply of affordable housing in Evanston has a large bearing on the homeless. He added that there remain a number of abandoned or boarded up homes. He also mentioned the affordable housing project at 1717E McDaniel, being rehabbed by Evanston Community Development Association, which should be on the market soon. Mr. Williams said that Reba Place Development Corporation will be have two affordable condominium units at 836-826 Elmwood, which should be ready for sale the beginning of 2005. Foreclosure actions due to inability to pay mortgages or taxes are a problem for low income residents. Mr. Williams concluded his remarks stating that the more non-profit organizations who work on affordable housing projects in Evanston, the more opportunities there will be to create more affordable housing. Coordination of information about various housing programs and services would be helpful to non-profit and other organizations who serve homeless and other low Income persons. Ald. Jean -Baptiste noted the initiative of the not -for -profit organizations to take on the affordable housing issue and work to create more affordable housing in Evanston. He also talked about the difficulty of Gearing up boarded up properties, because the City does not own these properties nor does it want to go into the business of purchasing these properties. He said that it is important for not -for -profits to take the initiative for taming boarded up properties Into safe, decent and sanitary housing. Emerald Youna Ms. Young asked what the City could do to reduce the number of boarded up properties In Evanston. Aid. Jean -Baptiste discussed several ways in which the City could encourage property owners to rehab or demolish their properties. He asked Ms. Young that if there were some properties which were of particular concern, to please let the City know so that it can look into the status of those properties. Ms. Young suggested that the City take steps to bring affordable housing to a reality. Ald. Jean - Baptiste said that the inclusionary zoning proposal was currently under consideration by the Planning & Development Committee and once it is presented to the City Council, there will be public debate on the recommendations in the proposal. He discussed the procedures that the City would have to undertake if it were to take ownership of boarded or abandoned properties and the cumbersome process that would be involved. He said that the City does not have the capacity nor the right to take over delinquent properties. There being no further public comment, Ald. Jean -Baptiste closed the public hearing at 825 p.m. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that the Committee could not take any action to recommend approval of the on the draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan and One Year Action Plan for FY 2005M6 to the City Council due to lack of a quorum. He said that the Committee would meet before the plans are submitted for City Council approval on January 10. 2005. Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes — December 7, 2004 Page 5 Ms. LOW again encouraged that written comments about the Consolidated Plan and One Year Action Plan be submitted to the Planning Division by January 74'. She said that the Committee would probably meet the first week of January to dirsaand approve the plans. After Committee approval, the draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan and One Year Action Plan for FY 2005106 will be submitted to the City Council for its review and approval at their January 10, 2005 meeting. Ili. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT There was no additional staff or citizen comment. DL ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjoumed at 8:30 p.m. Staff: Date: January 11. 2005 City of Evanston - MEMBERS PRESENT: HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, January 4, 2005 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center Ald. Rainey. Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Md. Kent STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: James Wotinski, Community Development Department; Paula Haynes, Human Relations Commission; Doug Gaynor, Paul D'Agostino, Par)WRecreation & Forestry; Pamela Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services; Betty Sue Ester, Sue Carlson, Emory W. Williams. Carol Balkcom, Jill W. Graham, Nancy M. Brown, Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust] Barbara Ganan, National Able Network; Bob Roy, Evanston Community Defender's Office; Gemariah Borough PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.; a quorum was not present II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JULY 20, 2004 MEETING Ald. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's November 16, 2004 meeting; the motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 4-0. Ill. COMMITTEE REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF PROPOSED ONE YEAR ACTION PLAN FOR FY 2005106 AND DRAFT 2005-2009 HUD CONSOLIDATED PLAN A. Staff presentation of proposed One Year Action Plan B. Staff presentation of proposed Consolidated Plan After discussion by Ms. Lufkin and Committee members of the proposed One Year Action for FY 2005106 and the draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan, Aid. Rainey asked if anyone present wlshed to address the Committee regarding the two plans. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — January 4, 2005 Page 2 Jill Graham, Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust (CLCLT), thought that the plans should have made reference to the work the CLCLT is doing. She said that the CLCLT had sent a letter to Tracy Horfleet in the Planning Division with comments concerning the CLCLT and creation of affordable housing in Evanston. Ms. Graham spoke about the community land trust model and provided committee members with CLCLT brochures. Discussion ensued about the definition of 'affordable housing". Committee members suggested that the CLCLT should use real numbers in the examples cited in the brochure, so that people would clearly understand by what is meant by'affordable housing' in Evanston. Aid. Rainey said that discussion about the Citizens' Lighthouse Community Land Trust would not be included in the One Year Action Plan, because the Action Plan discusses only projects for which the City has recommended funding for FY 2005106. However, a discussion about the CLCLT and its proposed activities could be included in the Consolidated Plan. (Comments received from the CLCLT were included in the City's 2005-2009 Consolidated Plan.) Ald. Rainey said that before the Committee voted to recommend to the City Council approval of the One Year Action Plan and draft Consolidated Plan, it needed to make some adjustments to the proposed 2005/06 funding recommendations. She said that the City had just learned the amount of its 2005 entitlement, which will be $2,247,021 - $120,979 less than the amount HUD had released to grantees in the fall as estimated 2005 CDBG funding amounts. She added that she and the rest of the Committee were very distressed to have the City's CDBG allocation reduced by over 9%. Because the City's entitlement allocation from HUD had been reduced, changes had to be made to the allocations in the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories to ensure that funding would not exceed their 20% and 15% caps. Ald. Rainey said that staff had suggested proportionate reductions in each allocation, according to the percentage of total funding recommended for each grantee. So that the Committee would not have to make further reductions in funding amounts in the Housing, Public Facilities, Public Improvements and Economic Development categories, the Committee accepted a recommendation by Community Development Director James Wolinski to reallocate $79,551 in program income from the City's Revolving Loan Fund to the 2005/05 CDBG program. David Schoenfeld made a motion to accept staff recommendations for revised funding allocations in the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories; motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion cabled, 5-0. Aid. Bernstein made a motion to accept the proposed reallocation of $79,551 in Revolving Loan Funds to the 2005/06 CDBG program; motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 5-0. C. Committee Recommendation on proposed One Year Action Plan for FY 2005106 D. Committee Recommendation on draft 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan Aid. Bernstein made a motion to recommend approval to the City Council of the City's One Year Action Plan for FY 2005106; motion seconded by Ald. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 5-0. Ald. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to recommend approvalto the City Council of the 2005-2009 HUD Consolidated Plan; motion seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 5-0. Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes — January 4, 2005 Page 3 Ald. Jean -Baptiste asked that a brief discussion about the community land trust be Included in the Consolidated Plan. Ms. Lufkin said that both the One Year Action Plan and the draft 2005-2009 Consolidated Plan are on the agenda for City Council action on January 10, 2005. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. Third Quarter Reports Ald. Rainey accepted the third quarter reports from CDBG program grantees and urged Committee members to review the reports and contact Sally Lufkin 9 they needed additional information. B. NCDXs Washingfon Report for December 2004. Accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. V. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT There was no staff/citizen comment. VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. staff: Date: January 14, 2005 MEETING CANCELLATION The Housing and Community Development Act Committee originally scheduled for February 2005 has been canceled The next meeting of the Housing and Community Development Act Committee is scheduled. for March 15, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. in Room 2403 in the Civic Center. �0 Evanston HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE ORAF'T - NOT APPROVED MINUTES Tuesday, March 15, 2005 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Kent STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT. Gemariah Borough, Betty Sue Ester, Keisha Lee, Danielle. Perkins, Lauryn Nwankpa, Jot Arneneaux, Grace Clark, Jackie Newcome, Amber Edwards, Anna Moseley, Patricia Brown' PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair CALL TO ORDERlDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.; a quorum was not present II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 4, 2005 MEETING Alf, Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's March 15, 2005 - meeting; the motion was seconded by David Schoenfeld. Motion carried, 6-0. Ill. REQUEST TO REALLOCATE ADDITIONAL CDBG FUNDS TO THE 2005MG HEMENWAY ELEVATOR PROJECT David Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the reallocation of $3,000 in unexpended 2004105 CDBG funds to the 2005106 Hemenway Elevator project The motion was seconded by Aid. Bernstein. Ms. Lufddn suggested that $1,000 be reallocated in unexpended funds from the 2004105 Video Camera project and $2,000 from 2DO4105 Housing Advocacy. Committee members expressed their displeasure with being put In the position of allocating more funds toward a project which had adequate funding allocated to 9 to do the project. The request for additional CDBG funds had come from the City's Site Plan & Appearance Review Committee, which recommended that brick be used for the enclosure's exterior (versus stucco or block), which will be constructed to house the elevator on the back side of Hemenway's building in order to match the building's existing brick exterior. Ald. Rainey noted that the committee had limited funds to allocate and adding $3,000 to the Hemenway project takes away funds which could be used for a new project She added that, with reduced CDBG funds coming to the City, the committee would not be able to honor such a request in the future. Motion carried, 6-0. + •1f Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 15, 2005 Page 2 IV. REQUEST TO REALLOCATE 2004105 FUNDS WITHIN THE ADMINISTRATIONIPLANNING CATEGORY David Schoenfeld made a motion to approve the reallocation of $3,661.60 within the Administration/Planning category from 2004/05 Housing Advocacy to 2004/05 CDBG Administration. Motion seconded by Ald. Bernstein. Motion carried, 6-0. Ms. Lufkin said that approving the reallocation of funds within the Administration/Planning category will not exceed the 20% limit. V. SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH YOUTH ACTION MINISTRY — REPORT ON 2004= ANNUAL COLLEGE RETREAT Keisha Lee said she was the former president of Youth Action Ministry (YAM), and now Is a youth advisor to the new president, Jol Arceneaux. She thanked the committee for its funding for the 20D4105 annual college retreat Ms, Lee said that the group present was going to discuss their past experiences, what they learned on the trip and plans for this year's college retreat. Ms. Lee said that it was a challenge to organize the trip, but wa3 worth the effort She said a lot of people's eyes were opened when visiting college campuses. Ms. Lee said that she is a senior and was looking closely at several schools and decided to apply to Morgan State University. She said that YAM had one-on-one contact with some of the colleges' administrations, who gave them tours of the campuses and answered a lot of questions. Ms. Lee said that the group also visited Washington, D.C. and visited the White House, Lincoln Memorial. WWI and WWII monuments and the Women's Memorial for women who have served in the amied forces. The participants kept journals of the day's events and answered a daily question from the chaperones. Whoever had the most correct answers won a prize. Danielle Perkins said that she was a junior and went on the college trip particularly to visit Howard University, which she would like to attend after graduation from high school. She said that her parents wanted her to visit the colleges she planned to apply to first. The group also visited Norfolk and Bowie, colleges she had not heard of before. The five colleges visited were Howard University, Hampton, Norfolk, Bowie and Morgan State University, all located in Maryland, Virginia or Washington, D.C. Lauryn Nwankpa said that she is a senior and this was her first college tour. She said that she also was looking for a college to attend. She is interested in Hampton and Howard University. Ms. Nwankpa said that the most valuable experience for her was meeting people, some of whom went to the same school as her, but she did not know prior to the college trip. There were trip parWpants from different parts of the state. It was a good experience to meet other people with the similar interests and goals and Ms. Nwankpa said that she has kept in contact with some of the people she met on the tour. Ms. Nwankpa said that she just learned that she was accepted at USC. Jai Ameneaux said that she was a junior and is the new president of YAM. What stood out for her were the experiences she had on the trip, visiting museums and shopping. There were faun students per chaperone, or 40 students and 10 chaperones. Ms. Arceneaux said that she Teamed that Hampton and Howard University had good pharmacy programs, so she will be considering those universities when she submits applications. am Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — Marsh 15, 2005 Page 3 Grace Clark said that she was a freshman and this was her first college tour and one of the youngest students on the trip. She said that when she arrived at the church for the start of the trip, she was sornewhat overwhelmed by the number of people she did not know and especially that a lot of the other participants were 17 and 18 and she was 15. Ms. Clark said the trip was a good experience for her, she was not necessarily looking at colleges at this time, but Is Interested in either Hampton or Howard. Jackie Newsome said that she is a freshman and the newest member of the YAM family. She did not participate on the 2004 college tour, but will go on the 2005 tour, which will be from August 6- 13 and they will visit colleges in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana, visiting Alabama A&M, iuskegee, Southern University, Mississippi Valley and Xavier. Ms. Newsome said that scholarships are available so that all iinterested participants can go on the college tour, despite their ability to pay. Persons interested in the college tour write essays and assist In interviewing chaperones. Parents are not permitted to go on the trip. Because the purpose of the trip is to visit colleges, YAM wants to make sure that all participants are going on the trip for that purpose. Workshops are conducted before undertaking the college tour so that participants can have an idea of what to expect on the trip and what to look for in selecting a college. In order to go on the college tour, participants must attend at least three of the four workshops. Amber Edwards and Anna Moseley into hiced themselves as senior adult advisors to YAM. She said that they helped put the trip together and also helped with fundraising for scholarships. Ms. Edwards said that she participated in the trip to New York when she was a freshman. She attended Tuskegee because it had one of the top veterinary medicine programs. While she has not yet graduated, Ms. Edwards said that she does plan to finish her undergraduate degree and then apply to New York University to the graduate program in veterinary medicine. Anna Moseley said that she was one of the chaperones on the college tour. She had participated on previous college tours. She said that her purpose on the trip was to get the students to look at certain things In visiting the colleges and experience the entire trip. In Washington, D.C. Ms. Moseley said that they visited Arlington National Cemetery, the Capitol Building, and experienced an emergency evacuation drill. YAM wants to strive to give as many Evanston students as possible the opportunity to participate in a college tour. Approximately 10% of the tour participants are male. YAM is working to recruit more males to the next tour. One of the problems with their participation is that the trip takes place In early August and many of the mate students participate in sports, and in Evanston sports camps start In August Ken Rodgers said that one of the things that YAM does is have officers from different churches. Even though YAM was started at Second Baptist, it is a community organization with members from various churches. Lisa James said that she was very glad to meet the group and said that they were very intelligent and articulate. She added that it is important to have the experience of attending a historically black college and the networking that is done on the trips is something that will continue through college and beyond into adult life. Ms. James urged them to recruit more men to participate an future trips. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 15, 2005 Page 4 VI. COMMUNICATIONS A Fourth Quarter Reports Aid. Rainey acknowledged receipt of the fourth quarter reports and brought attention to the Housing Code Compliance program and the high number of code violations the property inspectors were able to have corrected in the 2004/05 program year. Aid. .lean -Baptiste commented on the MIW/EBE report, specifically the status Sherman Plaza Redevelopment project. He said that certain objectives In terms of MIW/EBE compliance are not being meant He thought that the committee should notify the department that it is looking for more aggressive M/W/EBE participation. Aid. Jean -Baptiste noted that a job fair will take place on March 2V and he hoped that there will be some jobs. He commented that for blue collar jobs, they are looking for resumes and people already in unions, which is an Impediment, and the issue of whether the job fair really has jobs. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he would Eke to receive an update at the committee's next meeting, especially the goal of achieving 25°% MNVIEBE participation and getting jobs for Evanston residents. Aid. Rainey noted that the garage project is $39 million and that is a project which the City can control who is working on the project She also discussed training which took place under the sewer construction, in which eleven people were trained and have union cards. Discussion ensued about how oontractors go about meeting the City's 25% MIW/EBE requirement, how this phase of the job might not provide opportunities for unskilled M/W/EBE workers to participate, but later on there will jobs available for MNVIEBE participation. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that the MNWEBE program should be asked how they can determine whether MMIEBE objectives will be met In a contract Aid. Rainey saki that the contractors meet their M/W/EBE goals, but do not necessarily hire Evanston residents. Jobs for Evanston residents is the place where the City must insist on compliance. Discussing the history of the City's MWEBE program, Aid. Jean - Baptiste said that MMIEBE compliance has always been voluntary versus mandatory. He discussed a study done several years ago to determine if there was discrimination in contracting in Evanston and there was a finding that there was no discrimination In minority subcontractors. As a result, there never was a mandate that the City establish mandatory MMIEBE goals. Aid. Rainey said that what the City is trying to do is figure out how to get contractors to hire Evanston residents for City sponsored construction projects. Aid. Rainey suggested inviting Judy Aiello and Floyd Shepard to the committee's next meeting to discuss minority participation in Evanston construction projects. She said that she would like to specifically discuss the Sherman Plaza garage construction project, which has W. E. O'Neill as the general contractor. What are his obligations and has he agreed to certain goals established by the City? The details of the contract need to be discussed to determine for MNWEBE regarding unskilled and semi -skilled local residents being hired. Betty Sue Ester mentioned that the Evanston One -Stop has Northwestern students who volunteer their time to assist people with putting together resumes. Persons planning to attend the March 23`d job fair should go the One -Stop and have the Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- March 15, 2005 Page 5 students help them with their resumes and then they will be ready to discuss job opportunities at the fair. B. Staff Report on status of 'Save the CDBG Program' C. NCDA's Washington Reports for February 15, and March 7, 2005 D. Evanston Housing Commission Minutes, January 20, 2005 E. Newletters: - Housing Options Homefrnrrt Winter 2005 - Housing Opportunity Development Corporation Developments Winter 2005 Connections for the Homeless Making Conner ons Fall 2W4 F. Evanston United Way 2003/2004 Annual Report G. Girl Scouts — Illinois Crossroads Council's 2004 Annual Reporr H. Child Care Center Audit for Fiscal Year 2004 I. Connections for the Homeless Audit for Fiscal Year 2004 J. Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs Audit fbr Fiscal Yeat 2004 K News Articles: e - House OK's Bill on Faith -Based Jobs - Losses force job agency to sell Ice cream shop - 43 new homes planned near Gateway Plaza - Mortgage lenders dose in on nearly nil rates - 185 homes planned on scattered Englewood lots - House giveaways are popular, but it seems the houses aren't - Taking Root — Our romance with mobility seems to be cooling off - Taking Root — Migrating for amenities - Different paths for development bills - New loans make deeper foray into affordabiiity - Naperville taps into eco-friendly electricity - 2004 housing prices stay on upward trade - Realtors are looking to make it a one -stop shopping experience - WHI investors take the bloom off realty rose? Developer tales aim at low -Income housing niche - If homes are like stocks, maybe the risks are too - Southeastern Wisconsin has surplus of open space - GI mortgage updates open doors for buyers - Florida tax cap hits snag: Downsizers face big hikes The communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. IN Aid. Jean -Baptiste commented on the article 'Mortgage lenders close in on nearly nil rates'. He said the article was about that mortgage lenders are beginning to take advantage of 0 interest bans. Some lenders are introducing mortgages in which payment Is not due for the frA six months. In a fluctuating market, whenever the interest rate would go up, the unsuspecting, unsophisticated borrower could end up paying a lot more money for a mortgage. Eventually, the negative amortization amounts to a greater principal than was initially borrowed and eroding up with the loan value being more than the value of the home. Zero percent interest is a real enticement to borrowers and the City needs to find a way to send out information warning that this type of loan is not a good loan. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that the City's new radio station could broadcast this information. He said that the already high foreclosure rate in Evanston could Housing A Community Development Act Committee Minutes — March 15, 2005 Page B skyrocket If people were to accept these types of loans. Aid. Jean -Baptista suggested that Donna Spicuzza, Housing Planner, send out an article about this type of loan in an upcoming issue of Highlights. VI. STAFFlCtT1xEN COMMENT Aid. Rainey announced that the City Counoi had adopted a Resolution asking Congress not to reduce funding for the CDBG program or combine it with other economic development programs. Sally Lufkin discussed a two year summary she had put together of CDBG funding and expenditures for the 2003104 and 2004M years and a list of Evanston not for -prof t organizations. She said this information was requested by the National Community Development Association, one of the member organlzatiorrs working to keep the CDBG program l AKI Vli. ADJOURNMENT There being f ,16w b before the CornmWee, the meeting adjourned at &50 p.m. Staff: h Y Date: April 5, 2005 d a rv:a&ny -eston HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE GRAFT - NOT APPROVED MINUTES Tuesday. April 19. 2005 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Bernstein, Lisa James, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ASSENT: Ald. Kent STAFF PRESENT: Sally Luffon, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Susan Gudedey, William Stafford, Max Rubin and Lloyd Shepard . PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rak". Chair L CALL TO ORDEWDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:39 p,m.; a quorum being present. IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE MARCH 15, 2005 MEETING Kennett, Rodgers made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's March 15, 2005' meeting; the motion was seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Mr. Rodgers said that he had shared the March minutes with the YAM students and they enjoyed reading the detailed minutes and seeing their names Included and spelled correctly. Motion carried, 54 (Ald. Bernstein temporarily out of room). M. REQUEST TO USE NEIGHBORHOOD PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT FUNDS FOR PRINTING OF A NEIGHBORHOOD COMMUNITY GUIDE Susan Guderiey distributed a mock-up of what the proposed community guide would look like. Dino Robinson has been working with the students on graphic design. They also have had help from Karen Chavers, who was the author of several past Evanston Neighborhood Conference's neighborhood community guides. She recounted the history of working with the Neighborhood Committee of the Evanston Plan Commission for the past three years on a brad based neighborhood planning process for potions of the ! °' and 2n° wards. This area is now known as the Canal -Green Bay -Church planning area. It is hoped that the neighborhood planning report, which was created as a result of this process, will be presented to the City Council for adoption in the coming months. ( Aid. Semstein rejoined the meeting.) Ms. Guderley said that she has been meeting with three undergraduate Northwestern students over the past several months, assistkg them with their capstone project for a Service Learning Certificate program. The students needed to find a significant project, which they could develop Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —April 19, 2005 Page 2 and present to their professors and fellow students, but that would also be of benefit to the Evanston community and perform a community service. The students had read a copy of the draft Canal -Green Bay -Church planning report and noted that one of the objectives stated In the draft plan was to increase neighborhood cohesiveness. Ms. Guderley explained what cohesiveness meant in the context of the discussions; it was necessary to strengthen the bonds of the community. It was the residents' conclusion that activities, such as anti -social gang activities, vandaitsm, etc, occurred in the neighborhood because there wasn't a coordinated community effort to challenge these behaviors. Therefore, one of the recommendations or draft plan was to try to get groups to work together. Ms. Guderley added that there were a lot of organizations present in the Canal -Green Bay -Church planning area; there needed to be some coordination made for these groups to work together on neighborhood issues. Remembering that Evanston Neighborhood Conference had put together neighborhood community directories, listing block dubs and other neighborhood groups and noting that there was a lot of interest in developing a neighborhood directory, the students decided to undertake development of a community guide for the Canal -Green Bay -Church planning area. Ms. Guderley said that the students met with Karen Chavers, who assisted them in developing a methodology and linked them with neighborhood groups. Ms. Guderley discussed the fomtiat for the community guide and the type of information the guide would contain. It is intended that the guide will be flexible in its content and updated periodically. Interviews and data gathering will be completed by the end of May so that a finished product can be submitted in June. She added that one of the deliverables the students will have at the end of the term is a manual for future students. Some fellow students are already interested in picking up the project next year. It is hoped that community guides will be developed for other neighborhoods. Initial printing of the guide will be approximately 250 copies, with 250 additional copies to be printed later. Ms. Guderley discussed the quotes she received for printing the directory. Aid. Rainey said that the idea of a community directory is a good Idea, but did not think that using CDBG funds to pay for the printing of the directory a good use of these limited funds. She said that there were probably a number of people living in the neighborhood planning area who could undertake this project and suggested that the community groups be encouraged to put together a community guide. Aid. Rainey said that for three Northwestern students to come into the neighborhood and do this project, takes the project away from the community and does not empower or enable neighborhood residents. Ms. Guderley responded that she thought that the students were aware of community sensitivities and did not want to impose the guide on the neighborhood. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said that he shares Ald. Rainey's perspective. He said that he was trying to understand how the development of a community directory of organizations and the building of cohesion in the neighborhood to address Issues relate. One of the problems is that the residents are not currently organized. He noted that compilation of the community directory is a worthy objective, but putting it together for the neighborhood Instead of the neighborhood residents participating in the process Is not a good idea. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that the students contact the alderman -elect of the 5 h ward about the project. Ms. Guderley responded that they had already been in contact the Alderman -effect Holmes and she has offered them use of office space for their project, which they declined because .the aldermanlc campaign was still in process. She reiterated that the Idea for a neighborhood directory came of the Canal -Green Bay -Church planning process. Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- April 19, 2005 Page 3 Aid. Bernstein said that he agreed with aldermen Rainey and Jean -Baptiste. He said that if the objective was to develop a cohesiveness among the residents and groups of the 5" ward, then the students should be used to assist in assembling the guide, not leading the process. He suggested talking to Alderman -elect Holmes again once she has taken office. He said that he was concerned with someone putting their idea into a community and that the idea and product did not arise out of a community process. Aid. Bernstein thought that the request for $2,000 In CDBG funds to print the guide was premature and should waft until Alderman -elect Holmes could become involved in it. David Schoenfeld said that he agreed with the notion that this request was premature. He wondered If Northwestern would not be able to pay for the printing of the guide, particularly since the community guide is a class project Lisa James added that the students should solicit advertising to cover the cost of printing the directory. Organlzatlons in the community ought to sponsor the production of the directory. Ms. Guderley said that because the document will became a city document, then it might not be possible to solicit advertising. Committee members pointed out that the quarterly Arts & Recreation publication contains advertising and suggested that the students contact Parks, Recreation and Forestry for additional information and encouraging the business community to get Involved with the directory via advertising. Other suggestions for getting the directory compiled and published and involvement of community groups In the process were discussed. Aid. Rainey concluded the discussion by stating that the Committee declined to consider tare request for using CDBG Neighborhood Public Improvement funds for printing the community guide, stating that the request was premature and that a better way needed to be found to involve the community in the development of the directory. IV. MMIEBE PROGRAM DISCUSSION Aid. Rainey invited Finance Director William Stafford, MiWIEBE Program Coordinator Lloyd Shepard and Facilities Management Director Max Rubin to discuss the City MiWIEBE program and progress in meeting participation goals in the Sherman Avenue Redevelopment project Bill Stafford said that In the development agreement for the Sherman Avenue project the City has two components regarding mhor4twomen-ownedfEvanston business (MIE/EBE) participation: an enforceable component with penalties for non-compliance of 25% MIWIEBE participation In contracts let as part of the project; and a voluntary component of 15% job participation for Evanston residents. The 15% job participation component for Evanston residents is a voluntary matter because of dilates of federal law; the City cannot require that Evanston residents must be hired for a particular project However, the City is allowed to enforce purchasing goats and enforce penalties for non-compliance. The MIWIEBE participation on the City's portion of the $40 million garage being constructed by W. E. O'Neill, is $4.2 million or 10.7%. The goal is to have $10 million In purchases for the garage for MWIEBE businesses or 25°% of the total contract Reports are to be submitted by W. E. O'Neill on both a weekly and monthly basis and are reviewed by Lloyd Shepard for compliance. Mr. Stafford said that staff thinks that the 25% M/WIEBE goal will be met, though not all contracts for the garage construction have been let, totaling approximately $14-17 million. The City does not calculate the numbers until it has signed contracts. On the 15% voluntary component of hiring Evanston residents, W.E. O'Neill has conducted a job fair in which 77 applications were received. Twenty-six were qualified; have the experience to Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes— April 19, 2005 Page 4 work on the Sherman Avenue protect as laborers. The twenty-six applicants were split between Focus Development and W.E. O'Neill, so both developers have a pool of 13 persons from which to draw when openings arise. Currently. O'Neill has hired 3 of the 13 applicants (all Evanston residents) from the pool of eligible applicants. Focus Development has hired 2 Evanston residents in management positions: one in marketing and one in sales. One of the things that the City has been more aggressive in obtaining weekly progress reports on the project, which will indicate whether M/W/EBE and hiring goats are being achieved and, it not, the City will have an earlier indication that waiting for final reports from the contractors. Kenneth Rodgers asked whether the City had any policies which spelled out 'up front" participation in projects which are being let for bid. Can the City set such policies7 Mr. Stafford responded that any bid or purchase that the City submits its requests WE/WBE participation, whether it be architectural services, design, etc. Mr. Rodgers asked if Purchasing had any statistics on architectural contracts being awarded to Evanston businesses. Mr. Stafford said that he did not have that Information, but would provide it to the committee. Most of the costs associated with the new garage construction are hard costs v. soft costs, which would be architectural services and other non -construction related costs. The City's policy is that it tries to solicit MJWIEBE participation in City purchases regardless of whether the purchase is a hard or softcost. Every contract let by the City at or above 515,000 has a M/W/EBE component of 25% regardless of what type of purchase the contract is for. In a project such as the Sherman Avenue Development, the developer comes to the City with their awn team. Therefore, things such as design, architectural services, financial services are completed before the proposal is brought to the City. These costs are part of the excluded costs of the redevelopment agreement. Most development agreements have the developer come to the City with a business concept and a business structure. The City cannot dictate to developers for up front costs. With these costs excluded, the City then requires a 25°% M/WIEBE participation requirement on the nest of the project. Mr. Stafford said that he was not sure that the City could complete a business deal by dictating soft costs, such as concept and architectural services. Regarding the garage construction, the City is paying for the construction of 1,200 parking spaces and Focus Development paying for 393 spaces, for which they will reimburse the City $6 million. Aid. Bernstein said that the 26 Evanston residents who are qualified as laborers, should get priority for any job openings by the contractor. Starting with the next development contract, the City should mandate its M/W/EBE requirements up front Mr. Stafford responded that there is a long list of federal statutes and case law which do not allow priority hiring practices to be imposed in which local people must be hired for construction projects. He added that a request for clarification on this Issue has been submitted to the Law Department_ The reason issues such as this one arise on local hiring is that there is a lot of case law which has come about because mayors have gotten friends and relatives jobs on local construction projects. Aid. Rainey asked, referring to the City sewer project which it wholly owns, if it can dictate that an affirmative effort has to be made to hire MNV/EBE. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked why the City has a voluntary objective of 15°% Evanston residents? Mr. Stafford did not know how the percentage requirement was determined. He asked how many (totat) jobs will be available on the Sherman garage project and of that total, how many jobs need to be filled by MIWIEBE businesses? Mr. Stafford said that he would obtain that information from W.E. O'Neill and Focus Development Mr. Rubin said that right now ironworkers and carpenters are working. On days when concrete is being poured there are about 50 workers on site. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — April 19, 2005 Page 5 Discussion continued on how to encourage contractors to hire Evanston residents for City sponsored projects. Mr. Shepard said that at meetings with the Sherman Avenue development contractors there was discussion about the hiring and purchasing goals of the City, pointing out that a lot of money is being invested in the project and the City would like to see open positions filled with Evanston residents. W.E. O'Neill and Focus Development agreed with those goals and to undertake the job fair, which was held a few weeks ago. Current MNVlEBE participation in the garage is $957,000 for rebar from a female -owned company (this woman came to Mr. Shepard to seek opportunities to do business with the City of Evanston); $2.5 million for concrete from Builders Ready Mix (Evanston based business; $1.25 million contract Builders Ready Mix has with Revcon Constriction. Projected participation for electrical material from one subcontractor and the City has another electrical contractor under contract. Each of these contractors is required to have a 25% MNVlEBE component in the contract O'Neill leaves it up to its subcontractors to meet those requirements. Mr. Stafford said that one of the difficulties in meeting Evanston based business goals Is that there are a limited number of businesses in Evanston. However, Evanston's capacity for employment is very large. Discussion continued on how to build the capacity of Evanston based businesses so that they can become competitive for local contracts. Mr. Rubin said that there is only one trade that the workers do not have to be a union member prior to being hired for a job: laborer. All the other trades require that the job holier hold a union card prior to being employed Mr. Stafford said that based on the discussion with the committee and with other discussions with City officials, it appears that the City's policy toward Evanston hiring could be adjusted. Aid. Rainey asked for a copy of the current policy. Also the City Manager is planning to do some strategic planning, which could encompass the City's contracting and purchasing policies. Aid. Rainey said that one of the things City officials would like to kook at the potential for changing the City's policy regarding requiring certain characteristics for employment She also requested a copy of the City's current ordinance on hiring Evanston residents. Ald. Rainey thanked Messrs. Stafford, Shepard and Rubin for their good work and efforts to include Evanston residents as well as minority and women owned businesses In City purchases. Vi. COMMUNICATIONS A. NCDNs Washington Report for March 31, 2005 B. NCDA: HUD Appropriations Hearings ... Good News C. Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago Accomplishments D. Metropolitan Planning Council March 2005 Newsletter E. Interfaith Housing Center's Just Housing, Spring 2005 F. HDR Current Developments Articles: - Administration plan to consolidated CDBG, other programs would be more Flexible, says Commerce Chief - Report shows increase in complaints received by HUD, Fair Housing agencies in 2004 - HUD urged to adopt industry practices to reduce risks of No -Low -Down - Payment loans G. Newspaper Artides - City leverages CDBG funds to Improve neighborhoods - Homeowners risk spending above their means Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — April 19, 2005 Page 6 - Throw logic out the window - Title insurance kickback schemes targeted by Feds - Home equity tax break pops up among defk*-cutting options - 25 states questions Ameriquest lending practices - Capitalist -style policies lead to sprawl in China - Entrepreneurs buying properties in bulk - Gen Y buyers make dent in home buying market - Foreigners altering China's cityscapes - Westhaven Park developer honored for rental project - D.C. sprouts a suburb: the city of Baltimore -Modem designs find their war into prefab homes -Washington state may OK 1 'green' law - D.C. area construction grows Increasingly green - As lenders release their mortgage date, will we find racial bias? H. Youth Job Center of Evanston — Financial Statements for 6130105 I. GM Scouts/Illinois Crossroads Council, Inc. —Financial Statement for 61=5 The communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. V. STAFF1CrMEN COMMENT Aid. Rainey reminded committee members that there Will be a public hearing at the May 17'' meeting and requested that members make an effort to attend the meeting and public hearing. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business bre the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 9:23 p.m. 4 Staff: /�. • i Date: May 9, 2005 meµ. Evanston HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE DRAFT- NOT APPROVED MINUTES Tuesday, May 17, 2005 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Kent, Usa James, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT. Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair L CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:41 p.m.: a quorum being present Aid. Rainey welcomed Ald. Hansen to the committee. If. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE APRIL 19, 2005 MEETING Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the comntittee's April 19, 2005 meeting: the motion was seconded by Aid. Berstein. Motion carfied, 3-0. III. REVIEW OF FY 2004105 CAPER (CONSOLIDATED ACTION PLAN AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION REVIEW) A. Staff presentation of 2004105 CAPER Ms. Lufkin discussed the 2004105 CAPER both the written report and the reports generated by HUD's Integrated Disbursement Information System (IDIS). She said that the IDIS reports had improved over the years and have become more understandable to the novice reader. For that reason, Ms. Lufkin said that she included copies of all the IDIS reports which are required to be submitted to HUD with the CAPER written narrative. Ms. Lufkin also noted a few corrections to the written report Ms. Lufkin explained that the 2004105 CAPER is an annual report, which is due to HUD 90 days after the dose of the program year, or by May 31, 2005. She said the report discussed the City's use of FY 2004/05 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) and Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) programs. The City received a total of $3 In 2004105 CDBG, HOME and ESG funds. Referring to the CDBG program, W. Lufkin explained the different funding categories (housing, public facilities, etc.) and the caps, or limits on the Administration/Planning ca"ory (20%) and Public Services category (15°%). Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 17, 2005 Page 2 For the 2004/05 program year, the Housing & Community Development Act Committee approved funding for 45 projects totaling $2,749,932. Funding for these projects came from the 2004/05 CDBG entitlement (52,395,000), reallocated funds from completed prior years' projects and estimated program income (repayments to the City's rehab revolving loan program). Ms. Lufkin discussed the CDBG Financial Summary section of the report, noting that spending in the Administration/Planning and Public Services categories were both within their 20% and 15% statutory caps. Ninety-eight percent of CDBG expenditures in 20D4/05 were for activities benefiting low and moderate income persons In Evanston. Ms. Lufkin said that the HOME program is administered by Donna Splcuzza, Housing Planner for the City of Evanston. The 2004105 HOME grant was $586.630. Approximately $1.2 million was spent on HOME activities during the year for affordable housing projects. HOME funds are used primarily for acquisition and rehab with some new construction projects as well. The City received $88,120 in ESG funds. The ESG program is administered by the Health & Human Services Department Grant awards are approved by the City Councirs Human Services Committee. Three ESG grants were made in 2004/05: Youth Job Center of Evanston, EEAC Hospitality Center and Connections for the Homeless. Aid. Rainey asked for an explanation of the three HOME reports, PR 22, PR 25 and PR, 27. Ms. Lufkin said that she would discuss the reports with Donna Spica and provide. that information in an email to the committee before the CAPER is submitted to the City Council. B. Public Hearing .0 Ald. Rainey opened the public hearing at 8:21 p.m As titer was no one In attendance at the meeting except for Committee members and staff, there were no speakers to comment on the 2004/05 CAPER. Aid. Rainey closed the hearing at 8:22 p.m. C. Committee Recommendation to City Couneff "i Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to recommend approval of the City's Fy 2004MS CAPER to the City Council; the motion was seconded by Aid. Hansen. Motion coined. 4-0. N. COMMUNICATIONS A. Evanston Housing Commission Minutes for 3/17105 B. Housing Opportunity Development Corporation's Spring 2D05 Newsletter C. NCDA Washington Report for April 22, 2005 D. Top Ten Myths & Realities: The Administration's Strengthening America's Conimuni ies initiative (National Association of Development Organizations) E. Interfaith Housing Center of the Northem Suburbs — Information on Illinois SB75. Rental Housing Support Program F. City E-News: announce of Illinois OStAD grant award for Mason Park G. HUD News: HUD Increase lender incentives for Ions mitigation actions: helping ftnilies avoid foreclosure and retain their homes Statement from Secretary Jackson on record minority horneownenft Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — May 17, 2005 Page 3 H. News Articles: - Time for a farewell to ABMs - U.S. wams realty forces: don't block competition Suspect wrote a literary guide to loan fraud City approves financing for STO Using your mortgage as a tool Study: mortgage brokers offer lower subprime fees Rent regulated apartments dwindling in New York Arlington Heights: Officials refuse to halt teardowns Schaumburg: $50,000 OICd to aid novice home buyers Affordable cooperative took a decade of work Iowa goes in search of state's *great places' Modular homes may be an affordable option Home equity loans prove to be risky for some Property tax relief for elderly being downsized A tasty morsel on the North Shore The communications were accepted into the record by Md. Rainey. V. STAFPICfTIZEN COMMEND' Aid. Rainey commented that she was disturbed that no one came to the meeting to participate in the Public Hearing on the 2004/05 CAPER. She said that she is concerned that CDBG grant recipients are taking the City's CDBG grants for granted. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that CDBG grantees be required to attend public hearings to share their thoughts with the committee (there are three required public hearings throughout the program year). Aid. Rainey responded that she did not think federal requirements would mandate that grantees attend public hearings. However, she added that CDBG program regulations do not require that the City make grants to non -City organizations. Aid. Jean -Baptiste requested that the Westside Residents District Council be invited to the Committee's June 21' meeting to discuss the status of the Black American Heritage House and Technology Center project at 11317 Church Street. Md. Rainey asked for a written analysis of the grants made to the Westside Residents Association and expenditures to date. Ms. Lufkin updated Committee members on the status of the 'Save the CDBG program' campaign being waged in Washington, Q.C. by NCDA and other national organizations. She said that budget resolutions had been approved by both the Senate and House stating that the CDBG program should continue a separate program, administered by HUD, and funded at $4.7 bdfion for 2006107. The next steps will be the appropriations committees, which will decide funding levels, probably in June. VII. ADJOURNMENT There being further busine fore the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m. Staff: '} ; V V Date: June 2, 2005 J Evanston HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE I DRAFT -- NOT APPROVEM MINUTES Thursday, June 30, 2005 7:30 P.M. — Room 2402 Evanston Civic Center r MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Rainey, AkL Jean -Baptiste, Ald. Bemstein, Usa James, Kenneth Rodgers, David Schoenfeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Hansen STAFF PRESENT: Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Aid. Holmes, Gernarlah Borough, Lorethe Henry, Bettye. j. Palmer, Jordan Levy, Allen 'Bo' Price, Judith Treadway, Dino Robinson, Betty Ester, Bennett Johnson, Mamie Smith PRESIDING OFFICIAL Aid. Rainey, Chair 1. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Ald. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m.; a quorum being present. 11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE MAY 17, 2005 MEETING Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's May 17,-2005 meeting; the motion was seconded by Ald. Bernstein. Motion ca"W1,11-0. III. STATUS OF BLACK AMERICAN HERITAGE HOUSE & MUSEUM (1617 CHURCH STREET) Sally Lufkin discussed the advantages of spending CDBG grant funds in as expeditious way as passible. On a nationwide scale, Congress is reluctant to keep providing full funding for the CDBG program each year if there appears to be a large balance of unexpended funds from previous years. She explained that the City must spend its administration/planning and public services funds within the year they are granted, but can continue to spend funds obligated to housing, public facilities and improvements and economic development activities beyond the program year. The two grants awarded to the Evanston Westside Residents Council for the rehab of the 1817 Church Street building into a Black American Heritage House & Museum were 338,788 in 2000101 and $112,5W in 2002/03 for a total of 3151,288. Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- June 30, 2005 Page 2 Bettye Palmer said that the major systems had been upgraded (electrical, plumbing), windows restored on the front side of the building, and an HVAC system installed, new hot water heater and repairs to the roof. Ms. Palmer discussed the evolution of the project from hiring Hawkeye Designs to do the initial 'as buitr drawings and a concept plan for the museum. Hawkeye was supposed to work with the committee to do final drawings, but was not able to do so. Ms. Palmer said that the residents association wanted to restore the first floor of the building (painting walls and patching) so that it could became usable space for offices and museum exhibition space. Ms. Palmer discussed other programs that the residents' association has been investigating such as a day care program for two year oids. Aid. Rainey cautioned that the association needed to be mindful of the purpose for which the building was sold to the Westside Residents Association, e.g., to be renovated for use as a museum and technology center. She said that this was the purpose for which the (Housing & Community Development Act) Committee made the grarrt awards. Ms. Palmer responded that a way to earn revenue needed to be found in order to operate the museum. Ms. Palmer discussed plans to hire a new architect to develop drawings of the building, which need to be prepared and submitted to the City's Building Division for review prior to issuance of future building permits. The residents association said that Joe Kent and Rick Hammell, general contractor, had found an architect to prepare the plans, but were waiting for the City to issue a check for the 50% advance payment In order to hire the architect Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked for clarification of the next steps in the process of renovating the building. Aid. Rainey related a discussion she had with Community Development Director Jim Wolinski. She had called Mr. Wolinski to try to understand what the delay was in moving the museum project forward. Mr. Wolinski said that he and Building Director Carolyn Brzezinski had requested a building plan for renovating 1817 Church Street. What had been happening was that Individual projects, i.e., upgrade of electrical in an area. installation of plumbing in another area, Installation of HVAC system, and there didn't seem to be a comprehensive plan for making the building whole. Aid. Rainey said that one of the problems (with moving the project forward) is that the residents' association needs to submit drawings for how the various rooms at 1817 Church Street are to be used In the Black American Heritage House Museum and Technology Center. This way. Building Division staff can evaluate the entire proposal to determine what will be needed to bring the building Into City code compliance as well as for improvements for the museum. Bettye Palmer said that the first year's grant was intended to be used for start-up costs. In the process of the 1817 Church Street building being sold to the Evanston Westside Residents' Association, certain things had to be done in order for the building to be brought up to code and become usable by the association. Facilities Management staff prepared a listing (at the time the building was for sale) of things which needed to be done. All major systems were in violation and had to be corrected. That work has been completed. Ms. Palmer said that there were also several incidents of dumping abandoned vehicles and other trash on the rear of the property. While a temporary fence had been Installed surrounding the rear of the property, it was damaged each time dumping occurred on the property. Because the residents association was being cited by the City's property stwidands office, it had to repeatedly dean up the rear of the property and finally had a taller and more permanent fence Installed. Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes — June 30, 2005 Page 3 Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked what the obstacles were to getting the project moving forward. Ms. Palmer said that the association had drawn up a five to seven year timetable for completion of the project, had always planned to do the rehab of the building in phases, due to the necessity of securing additional funding for the total rehab and operation of the museum. Aid. Rainey explained that Mr. Wolinski and Assistant Director Carolyn Brzezinski would like to meet with the new architect and general contractor to discuss what the City needs in order to approve the building plan and be in a position to be able to approve building permits as the renovating carries forward. Ms. Palmer said that this was the first she had heard about Mr. Wolinski wanting to meet with the residents and other others. Ms. Lufkin said that Planning has been holding the payment request for hiring of the architect awaiting scheduling of a meeting with representatives of the Westside Residents District Association to discuss planning for rehabbing 1817 Church Stree-L Kenneth Rodgers asked whether Die previous architect had provided any drawings. Ms. Palmer responded that she had provided 'as buitr drawings. That architect fulfilled the terms of her eonluad and declined to do additional work on this project because the project would involve more time than her firm would be able to undertake. Aid. Rainey read from the staff memorandum on the status of the project, which Indicated that an architect had been selected by the Westside Residents Association and that the architect Is ready to proceed, once down payment has been received on the contract. Discussion continued regarding a comprehensive proposal submitted by general contractor Ride Hammell for restoring the building to bring it into city code compliance. Aid. Bernstein discussed the difference between correcting code violations and alteration to the building once plans are devebped for the museum by an architect. He thought it would be a waste of money to correct code violations only to have to alter things In reconfiguring space for the museum. Ms. Palmer explained that Ride Hammel had put together a listing of things which had to be done to the building to bring it Into code compliance, per the request of the Westside Residents Association. The idea was to have the architect take the list of code corrections and the 'as buifr drawings to make up architectural drawings for the museum. Aid. Bernstein responded that it could be wasteful to fix up areas of the building which could later be altered for the particular uses which might be made in developing the components of the museum. Ms. Smith said that in order to achieve the overall goal of a museum and technology center, the 1817 Church Street building needed an estimated $300,000 worth of work Since the Westside Residents Association did not have that amount of funding on hand, it was decided to do as minimum work as possible to meet the objectives of the City regarding transfer of property (code comprrance) and then go ahead and complete the project In stages. Discussion about cost estimates, obtaining other bids and phasing for the project were discussed. Akd. Bernstein said that the proposal prepared by Rick Hammell was somewhat illusory; the input of the architect Is needed to determine what stays and what will be altered. Ald. Rainey asked about plans for the installation of an elevator. Ms. Smith said that the original architect had discussed a chair lift with the residents association and had determined where one could be installed. She said that there is an Identified area where installation of a chair lift could be done without having to do extensive demolition. Ms. Smith said that when the RFP for 1817 Church Street was sent out in 1999, the Westside Residents Association visualized transforming the building into an African American history museum and technology center. At that time the association did not know the extent of repair which would be needed to make the building safe and usable. The association thought that it Housing R Community Development Act Committee Minutes —June 30, 2005 Page 4 could restore the first floor and start the museum, and then 4work on phase two, which would be renovation of the second and third floors. The association was going into the project with a vision for a museum and accepted the building `as is', not knowing exactly the condition of the property. Since the association has owned the building it has become clearer what renovations needed to be made and the extent of the work which needed to be done. Aid. Rainey said that she thought that the issues raised at this meeting could be set aside so that the project can move forward. She urged the Westside Residents Association to make an attempt to meet with the City's Building Division and the head of the Community Development Department to set out a plan for renovating 1817 Church Street and to open the museum. Aid. Jean -Baptiste said this project belongs to all of us, that he is interested in completing the project and doing what needs to be done to move things forward. Ald. Bernstein said that the first step should be to meet with the architect and discuss plans for the use of the space on the first floor. Then the architect can develop specifications for renavating the building and making the space usable for the proposed programs. He said that It was pointless just to restore rooms "as is' 9 they are going to be later altered in the process of developing program and museum space. Once plans for the use of the space have been developed, then it would be appropriate to meet with Jim Wolinski and the Building Divislon to discuss the City's requirements. The discussion concluded with Ald. Rainey encouraging the residents association to most with City staff as soon as possible so that the project can start moving forward. IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. First Quarter Reports 8. Memorandum on Funding for 2005106 MNV/EBE Program C. FYI — Letter from Sen. Obama to North Shore Senior Center D. NCDA Washington Reports for May 31,and June 16, 2005 E Legal Assistance Foundation Spring 2005 News F. Housing Options Homefronf Spring 2005 Newsletter G. HUD News: New home repair program makes FHA -insured home loans even more attractive H. News Articles: - Win, Lase or Draw? Charities bet on the love of poker, raising furls and ethics issues - A tasty morsel on North Shore - Study says fewer can afford price of homes - Programs aid maze of home buying hurdles - FHA launches bid to lure first-time buyer business - Can rent fund you 2nd home? - Latinos increase their buying Power for housing - As prices soar, so does American's equity debt - So-called foreclosure 'rescue' reveals schemes The communications were accepted into the record by Aid. Rainey. Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes — June 30, 2005 Page 5 V. STAFFICIT¢EN COMMENT Dino Robinson, Shorefront NFP, brought the Committee up to date on activities with Shorefront's legacy project He discussed the current program he has been conducting with teens to teach them to document through photography their personal vision. The photos are on display at Family Focus' exhibit hall. The next session starts on July 8" with eight students enrolled. Mr. Robinson said that at the end of each session a legacy fair is held. Community members can bring In their own photographs and a professional photographer is available to take family pictures. He snowed the Committee a professional photograph of the Twiggs family from the Legacy Collection. Mr. Robinson also discussed the sharing of project and program ideas with similar organizations in other parts of the country. Gemariah Borough introduced Jordan Levy, Connor McCaffrey and Michael Wirtz, three summer youth employees who are working with her on the building code video project. Bennett Johnson said that ECDC, one of the key players In the ChurchTWge area, Is in support of the Blade American Heritage Museum and Technology Center project. VI. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8.55 p.m. Staff: /t Date: July 12, 2005 a City or Evanston• MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, July 19, 2005 7:30 P.M. — Room 2404 Evanston Civic Center Ald. Rainey, Ald, Jean -Baptiste, AM. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen, , Kenneth Rodgers, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department Betty Sue Ester, Vrru Joshi, CEDAINeighbors at Work; Pam Thomas, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services; Richard Koenig, Housing Opportunity Development Corporation PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Aid. Rainey, Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECLARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:38 p.m., a quorum being present II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JUNE 30, 2005 MEETING Md. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's June 30. 2005 meeting, the motion was seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Morton carried, 5.0. Ill. PUBLIC HEARING ON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT NEEDS FOR FY 2006W IV. STAFF DISCUSSION OF PROCEDURES AND SCHEDULE FOR UPCOMING FY 200SM7 CDBG PROGRAM FUNDING PERIOD V. COMMUNICATIONS Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — July 19, 2005 Page 2 _ � - • � - ,• - i • .11i"r NYC. i vl�. �1.�� �. i4�" :. Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- July 19, 2005 Page 3 Housing a Community Developmmt Act Committee Minutes -- July 19, 2005 Page 4 Housing 3 Community Devebpment Act Committee Minutes -- July 19, 2005 Page 5 VI. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT Vil. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Staff: Date: August 5, 2005 i Evanstorr HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE DRAFT - NOT APPROVED MINUTES Tuesday, September 20, 204 7:30 P.M. -- Room 2402 Evanston Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen, Lisa James (isle), Kenneth Rodgers MEMBERS ABSENT: Aid. Rainey, David Schoenfeld STAFF PRESENT: Salty L.ufldn, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT. ]NO Geiger, John Mrosxka, McGaw YMCA; Bonnie James, Aid. Holmes. a Ward Neighbors; Bettye J. Pakner, Weatside Residents' Association; Dino Robinson, Cathy Katona, Evanston Corrinwxrity Development Corporation PRESIDING OFFICIAL- Aid. Bernstein, Acting Chair I. CALL. TO ORDERIDECL.ARATiON OF QUORUM Aid. Bernstein called the rneeting to order at 7:35 p.m.; a quorum being present II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE JULY 19, 2005 MEETING Kenneth Rodgers made a nwtian to approve the minutes of the Committee's July 19, 20D5 meeting; the motion was seconded by Aka. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 4-0. Ill. REQUEST FROM aMcGAW YMCA TO EXPEND ITS 2005106 CDBG GRANT FOR ELEVATOR REPAIRS V. ELEVATOR REPLACEMENT Aid. Jean -Baptiste requested clarification that the YMCNs original CDBG application for approximately $300,000 in 2005/06 CDBG funds was to purchase a new elevator, because the YMCA was told that the present elevator could not be repaired due to its age. Bill Geiger. Executive Director, said that the YMCA had looked for additional funding for the purchase of a new elevator after it received the $50,000 grant award from the City, but was unable to find other funders willing to support the project As a result, YMCA staff again asked contractors for their recommendations on whether the existing elevator could somehow be repaired to extend its use. Mr. Geiger said that while they had been exploring whether to hold their 2005106 grant in reserve and apply for additional CDBG funds for a new elevator, the YMCA received a proposal for partial renovation of the existing elevator. The repairs would extend the elevators useful life by 10-15 years. Mr. Geiger said that he would like committee approval to expend the grant for the repair work Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 20, 2005 Page 2 Instead of a purchase. The YMCA thought that repairing the existing elevator would be a useful use of the CDBG funds and would also give the YMCA time to continue to seek funding for a new elevator. Discussion among committee members was in support of the proposal, while repairing the elevator would not be the optimum use of funds, it would 'bur the YMCA time to seek funding for a new elevator and at the same time the YMCA will have the continued use of the existing elevator for the men's residence. Kenneth Rodgers made a motion to approve the request from McGaw YMCA to use its 20OWN CDBG grant of $50,000 for repairs to the existing men's residence elevator, motion seconded by Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Motion carried, 4-0. TV. REQUEST FROM FIFTH WARD NEIGHBORS TO USE NEIGHBORHOOD PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT FUNDS FOR BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS Aid. Deiores Holmes said that Ike Dixon and Bonnie James are the two co-chairs of the 511 ward beautification committee. She discussed the request for neighborhood public improvement funds to be used to purchase 8 banners, purchase decals, garden tools and paint to paint/create several sample (oil) drums for use in commercial areas through the ward. The neighbors voll also undertake a neighborhood dean up campaign throughout the a ward. Aid. Holmes showed the Committee the proposed design to be used on the banners, decals and oil drums. The painted oil drums will be used in business districts in the ward and neighbors will be encouraged to adopt fancy cans for residential areas. Aid. Jean -Baptiste made a motion to approve the request for $1,100 in neighborhood public Improvement funds for a pilot beautification projecL The motion was seconded by Aid. Hansen. Motion carried, 4-0. V. BLACK AMERICAN HERITAGE HOUSE AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER — UPDATE FROM WESTSIDE RESIDENTS COUNCIL Bettye Palmer from the Westside Residents' Council reported that Bradley & Associates architects have been hired to provide architectural services, preparation of construction documents and to oversee project bidding for the renovation of 1817 Church Street Into a Black American Heritage House and Technology Center. Ms. Palmer said that 'as is' drawings have been completed. Ms. Palmer also discussed recurring property standards violations which occur on the rear of the property because of illegal dumping and steps the association is taking to remedy the matter. A landscaper has been hired to clear rear of the property of all vegetation, remove the debris and to correct some drainage problems near the rear door of the building. Ms. Palmer discussed with committee members the schedule for completion of the rerwvation. Ms. Palmer said that the architect should have the first draft of the proposed plan finished by the third week of October. Aid. Jean -Baptiste requested that regular updates on this project be provided to the committee. Vl. COMMUNICATIONS A. Committee Meeting Schedule for Fail 2D05 B. LAF Update: Bringing Justice Home C. Hurricane Katrina Tosses Congressional SchedukMAHRO Update D. Rental Housing Support Update (Chicago Coalition for the Homeless) E. Interfaith Housing Center. Update on Ocwen Visit to Evanston/NS Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — September 20, 2005 Page 3 F. HUD NEWS -HUD study shows people with disabilities face discrimination in up to half of rental inquires -HUD charges Illinois landlord with violation of fair housing act -HUD awards $10 million to help provide permanent housing for persons experiencing chronic homelessness -HUD awards $18.8 million to help people & families Wing with HIV/AIDS -HUD announces disaster assistance for hurricane affected areas -Jackson to chair U.S. interagency council on homelessness F. News Articles Adopt a fancy can, then haul trash -Minister lends a hand and faith to ex -convicts -Minorities pay more for housing costs -Despite illegal status, buyers get home loans -Housing prioes high for low income workers -Fraudulent 'flipping' seems to be flopping -Eminent domain backlash hafts some projects Green' building to get national standards -Home buying has a name: complicated -Foreclosure hurts neighbors The long and short of it: Cast -out refi's a draw -Predatory lending bill gets bad reviews from the industry -Have a Chicago -style mortgage -Mortgage fraud booming along with housing market -Bill pushes assisted housing plan -interest-only risk management -Risky home loan pitches are facing fresh scrutiny and new guidelines -Foreclosure scams leave drowning homeowners high and dry -Protect yourself from meltdown risks -Housing industry lends a hand to less fortunate -Missouri OKs law that thwarts discount brokers Accepted into the record by Md. Bernstein. VII. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Dino Robinson, co-chair of Evanston Community Development Corporation (ECDC), Introduced consultant Cathy Katona, who was recently hired by ECDC to begin implementation of the organization's strategic plan (revitalize the Church/Dodge area), set up office space at 1915 Church Street and to assist in seeking funding for a small business loan program. Ms. Katona has an economic development background, having moved to Evanston about eight months previously from Washington, D.C. Ms. Katona was recently hired as well as a second consultant who is responsible for overseeing the renovation of the 1915 Church Street office space. Sally Lufkin said that the Committee had received forty-seven applications for 2006107 CDBG funding totaling approximately $3.5 million. She discussed the status of 2006 HUD funding in Congress and the possible impact of hurricane Katrina on the CDBG program 2006 budget. Housing 3 Community Development Act Conanitteo Minutes -- Septsrnber 20, 2005 Page 4 Vill. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the cor vnbee, the meeting adjourned at 6:12 p.m. I /. 7f r Staff: J Date: October 10.2005 cir EVaItStorr MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: HOUSING 3 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, October 18, 2005 7:00 P.M. -- City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center Aid. Rainey, Ald. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Ald. Hansen, Kenneth Rodgers Lisa James, David Schoenfeld Sally Lufkin, Commurdty Development Department PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Ald. Rainey. Chair I. CALL TO ORDERIDECL ARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m., a quorum being present A. APPROVAL. OF MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 20, 2005 MEETING Ald. Bernstein made a motion to approve the minutes of the Committee's September-20, 2005 meeting; motion seconded by Kenneth Rodgers. Motion carried: 8.0. Ill. 2WW07 CDBG PROGRAM A Staff Memorandum on Estimated Funding for the 2006/07 CDBG Program B. Estimated CDBG Funds to be Reallocated to 2005/06 CDBG Program Ms. Lufkin said that the City starts its application review process each year not knowing what its exact CDBG funding amount will be for the upcoming year. She said that the HUD funding bill is . still before Congress and a vote might be taken this week. As things currently stand, the House has approved the 2006 HUD funding bill, with the till being discussed on the Senate floor this week. The overall 2006 CDBG funding allocation reflects a reduction of approximately 8% from 2005 funding. Ms. Lufkin added that there is an amendment circulating In the U.S. Senate, which would increase funding for the 2006 CDBG program by $200.000,000. Ms. Luskin discussed the President's initiative for 2006 to combine the CDBG program with eighteen other economic development programs and move those programs to the Department of Commence. She said Congress has rejected moving the CDBG program from HUD and is recommending HUD continue to administer the CDBG program. k M. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 18, 2005 Page 2 Ms. Lufkin discussed the funding estimate prepared for the Committee with two scenarios for 2006 funding: one with Evanston receiving the same amount of CDBG funds for 2006 as It had in 2005 ($2,247,201) and the second scenario reflecting the 8% reduction in 2006 funding ($2,187,425), Ms. Lufkin suggested the Committee focus on the lower estimated funding figure, which Is the one she used in tabulating the Administration/Manning and Public Services categories caps. Ms. Lufkin said with the 8% reduction in funding for 2006, it is estimated that the City of Evanston will receive $2.087,425. Program income, payments made to the City's housing rehab revolving ban fund, is estimated to be $200,000 and there appears to be $40,841 in unspent funds from completed prior years' activities which can be reallocated to the 2006107 CDBG program, which brings the estimated total funding for the City's 2006/07 CDBG program to $2,328,266. There are two funding categories with limitations in the amount of CDBG funds which may be allocated to them: the Administration/Planning category, should have no more than 20% of the City's CDBG funds allocated to it The 20% allocation Is 3456,485; the City has reeelved applications totaling $560,796; therefore, $103,311 will have to be reduced from the funding requests. In the Public Services category, no more than 15% of the City's CDBG funds may be allocated. The 15% funding limit for 2006107 is $335,614; public services category funding requests total $788,320. necessitating a reduction of $445,068 in the public services category. The other categories, housing, public facilities, public improvements and economic development do not have limits in the amount of CDBG funds which may be allocated toward them. Overall, the total 2006107 CDBG funding requests of $3,887,721 must be reduced by $1,559,455 in order to match estimated 20D6 funds available of $2.328.266. C. Committee Review of Agency Applications Al Second Bavtist Church Youth Action Ministry/Y.A.M. Annual College Retreat Chantay Rogers said she's an Assistant Director of Y.A.M., Youth Action Ministry. Other participants introduced themselves: Amber Edwards, Director, Joi Arceneaux, Senior Advisor, and Allen, Senior Advisor. Y.A.M, Excel is a not -for -profit organization, started In 1989 by a group of students who knew how important it was to experience life after high school, visit colleges and universities, to determine whether they wanted to pursue further studies at a college or university. It was the vision of the students to plan college tours for themselves and others. Y.A.M. Excel takes students on college visits, seminars, job fairs and other workshops. Y.A.M.. has received various awards for its work with young adults from the Chicago Urban League, Who's Who, NAACP, and Big Brothers -Big Sisters of America. Y.A.M. is the only youth program. to be recogn¢ed nationally by Who's Who. Maurice Dawson, Senior Advisor for Y.A.M. Excel, discussed his experiences since he has been Involved with Y.A.M. Excel. He said one of the best things about his Involvement with Y.A.M. was to see the results of his work throughout the organization and doing things that benefit other people. Mr. Dawson discussed his experience on college trips, getting to know other students,. and making new friendships. Jacqueline Newsome said she Is the current President of Y.A.M. Excel and retreat chair person for this year. Ms. Newsome said the purpose of Y.A.M. Is to provide educational assistance, leadership opportunities, spiritual guidance and support as well as role models for youth. Educational assistance is not just conducting workshops and getting students ready to take Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 18, 2006 Page 3 entrance exams. Rather, Y.A.M. Excel thinks visiting college Campuses, seeing them, and meeting students and faculty is very important Students are shown h is possible to go to college and obtain advanced education. Ms. Newsome said the CDBG funding request for 2006107 is for $30,000 so It will be possible for students who could not afford to visit colleges, writ have the motivation to apply to college on their own, cc consider attending college. The funds are needed so high school students can be shown the possibilities of furthering their education beyond high school. YAM. Excel wants to help the community, and CDBG funding will help it achieve that goal. Aid. Rainey asked for a more detailed budget for the proposed college tour, referencing p. 16 of the application. Aid. Rainey also asked if YAM. follows up on students who have participated In college tours. Mr. Dawson responded with, many of the participants continue to be involved in YAM. Ald. Rainey suggested it would be interesting if people who go on college tours, report back to YAM. on what they are doing or how the college retreat affected their lives. Ms. Newsome said surveys are taken after the trips and approximatety 80% of the trip participants do attend the colleges visited. Approximately 65% of them graduate from college. A2 Legal Assistance Foundation/Evanston Legal Services Willam Kolen, Supervising Attorney of the Evanston office of the Legal Assistance Foundation (LAF) of Metropolitan Chicago, said CDBG funds are being requested so LAF may continue to offer free legal services, In civil law matters to Evanston low Income and senior citizens. No criminal legal work is done, however, the full range of civil law services Include: housing, evictions, subsidized housing and other issues involving housing; domestic relations, especially. representing women and children who are victims of domestic violence; representation of senior who are victims of fraud, particularly mortgage scams. Support of the City of Evanston and CDBG funds are needed to support LAFs work with low income residents; a significant amount of legal services is provided to that population. Mr. Kolen said LAF's downtown office is handling many predatory lending foreclosure cases and he asked the residents to contact his office if they are aware of these types of situations. In addition to adjudicating cases, LAF has information on foreclosure procedures. Services are available to middle income persons 60 years and older and low income residents. Aid. Jean - Baptiste discussed the importance of having LAF advocate for representation of defendants who have cases in chancery court He said often times the tender is able to obtain a judgment from the court on the first visit, before the defendant is able to obtain legal representation. Mr. Kolen said, once a person is served with foreclosure papers, there is still a seven month period during which the house can be sold. A3 Meals at Home/Food Delivery to Seniors & Disabled Executive Director Patricia Carlson said Meals at Home delivers meals to homebound elderly and disabled persons in Evanston. Clients receive two complete meals a day: lunch and dinner, one is hot, the other cold. All meals are delivered by volunteers at lunchtime Mondays -Saturdays, including holidays. Meals for medically prescribed diets and general meals are provided. If volunteers notice a change In a client's health or well being, they contact the Meals at Home staff, who notify families, friends or other organizations. when appropriate. A free friendly visit program is offered to clients who are interested. Meats at Home proposes to use CDBG funds for meal subsidies for Evanston low Income clients who Cannot afford to pay the full fee. Food is purchased from Evanston Hospital, St Francs Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 18, 2005 Page 4 Hospital and Three Crowns Park. Last summer SL Francis Hospital increased its charge for meals by 20°%. This summer St. Francis raised the price of their meals by another 5%. St. Francis Hospital is the largest food provider and the increases have raised the cost to purchase meals by $2,500 annually. Meals at Home offers a sliding lee schedule for clients with low incomes. In the past year, 2004/05, 52% of clients were subsidized. Most of the subsidized clients live in Evanston and every year more clients receive subsidies. Meals at Home is delivering 15.7% more meals this year and the number of clients has increased by 19%. The client population is gnawing the fastest in south and west Evanston, with a large number of clients living In neighborhoods near SL Francis Hospital. There are three routes out of SL Francis Monday -Friday and one route on Saturday. Last summer some routes had as many as 19 stops, almost necessitating placing people on a waiting list for meal delivery. Almost all of the new clients were subsidized. The third week of June, Meals at Home had an all time high of 111 clients (total including Evanston). Aid. Rainey asked for clarification on the estimated cost per client on page 7 of the application. There seemed to be some inconsistency in the cost to deliver services in 2006/07, 2005106 and 2004105. Ms. Carlson said she would review her figures and provide information on how the figures were caWated. Aid. Rainey asked what contributed to the client population Increasing so much. Ms. Carlson said she was not sure. but said the Meats at Home regularly advertises in Pioneer Press, seeking volunteer drivers. Social workers like Meals at Home because an in -home assessment is not required; just a referral, Setting up a new client can be done quickly. Morris Fairfield, President of the Board of Meals at Horne, said there are two types of subsidy: one for food and one for the cost of delivery of the meals. He thinks that part of the growth In, clientele was due to communication about the program by those receiving delivered meals. A4 Special Programs for Adolescents/Snecial Programs for Adolescents No one present to discuss this application. A5 Youth Job Center/Youth Emolovment SUDDort Services James Sibley, Executive Director, discussed the programs of the Youth Job Center and the different client groups, from age 14 — 40. (Rest of this section and Evanston Day Nursery discussion to be inserted after viewing videotape.) A6 Evanston Day Nursery/Erneruencv Weather Shelter A Exterior UakeeD A7 Family FocuslWeisshaurd-Holmes Famv7Y Focus Center (Sandra Hill) The Family Focus building at 2010 Dewey has seven roofs; the funding request Is for the mof over the three story. north end of the building. It is 25 years old, and Is one of the original roofs on the building. Repairs to the roof will prevent further leakage, structural and other damage to the building. Family Focus is requesting sufficient funding to replace the roof with the proper materials, which Includes a cold tar pitch roof, used for fist roofs, and 1 inch insulation, which would warranty the roof for 15 years. If It is not possible to award a grant at $70,765, but Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 18, 2005 Page 5 a lesser amount, the warranty for the roof will be for a period between 5-15 years. in addition, different kinds of materials will be used for the roof repair (with a grant award of less than $70,765). The roof proposed, to be repaired, measures 79' x 66'. Aid. Rainey asked for clarification on the total cost of the roofing project, not just the CDBG portion. Lindsay Hagy, Government Grants Coordinator for Family Focus, said the total cost of the project will be $82.109. She asked whether Family Focus had a capital budget Kevin Lembeck said Family Focus did not have a capital budget for the WeissbourdlHolmes Center, currently $4,000 a year is appropriated for capital repairs to the building. In order to raise additional funds for capital repairs, Family Focus would have to reallocate funds from programs. The roof repaired three years ago was paid from Family Focus funds. Two years ago, the City awarded Family Focus a $47,500 grant to repair another roof. Mr. Lembeck said the type of projects for which the agency requests CDBG funds are for extraordinary expenses outside of Family Focus' budget. Annual appeals raise approximately $10.000. He said when Family Foals repaired the roof two years ago at $30,000, it exhausted the capital fund budget Mr. Lembeck acknowledged the generosity of the City's CDBG program in helping Family Focus maintain and make capital repairs to an old building. Ms. Lufkin said, even though Family Focus sought two bids in order to put together their CDBG application, it will have to go through a public bidd'ng process after the start of the 2006/07 program year, should a grant be awarded. Bids were solicited from Custom Contracting and Hanson Roofing; both contractors are very familiar with Family Focus' building in Evanston. Mr. Lembeck added that once this roof is repaired, it was his opinion that Family Focus should not have to return to the City requesting CDBG funds for roof repairs for 13 years. Family Foes will be covered on its roof projects with warranties. This will give the organ¢ation time to build up its capital repairs fund. W. t iii noted fast year's CDBG project, was repairs to the building's boilers. In response to a question from Ali. Bernstein, Ms. Hagy said the bid for a roof with a fiive year warranty was $43.229. AUvanston/Northshore YWCAIDomestic Violence Services Executive Director Karen Singer Introduced Board President, Shelley Gates. Ms. Singer spoke about October being domestic violence awareness month. Ms. Singer noted Pioneer Press had a great article In the Evanston Review last week about the magnitude of the problem and how it affects so many women and children In the community. Although she works on a daily basis with Me Issue, she sometimes does not step back and really think about the number of women and chlidren domestic violence impacts in Evanston and surrounding communities. The statistics are alarming: nationwide 4 million are assautted by spouses or partners each year, 1,200 are acWWy killed by their partners. A woman is more likely to be assaulted, killed or raped by a mate partner than by any other type of assailant This means, the greatest harm which can cone to a woman Is from a person they know intimatety and it often happens in their own home. There we over 8.8 million children who are affected by the short and long term effects of domestic violence. There is also an enormous cost to society. $1.8 billion in lost wages and productivity and $4.1 billion spent annual on medical and mental health care, all due to domestic violence. As Pioneer Press has noted, the rate of domestic crisis In Illinois has increased 30% during the period 1996-2002. At the YWCA/Northshore, staff and counselors have been working for more than two decades helping women and children end the violence in their lives. The YWCA's program in Evanston Is the only domestic violence program In the northeastem metropolitan Chic -ago area. Domestic violence is addressed in every form, even before it begins. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -October 18, 2006 Page 6 Last year 504 unduplicated women and children were sewed in a variety of ways; a 9% Increase over the previous year. Thirteen percent of those served came from Evanston. Twenty-two percent of all client direct services were for Evanston residents. This Is a 29% increase over the preceding year. Most often services begin with a phone call to the 24-hour crisis hotline. Trained staff and volunteers discuss safety issues, refer women to shelter, Legal, medical and other community resources that support women in taking the next step. Women who come Into the shelter tend to be low income, minority, and do not have other resources available to them. Women who participate in the walk-in program and courthouse services are from all income levels. Last year, the YWCA responded to 1,437 hotline calls; 14% of those calls came from the Evanston community. The Y's domestic violence shelter, started over 20 years ago, offers a safe haven, comprehensive case management, individual counseling and support groups for women and children, including linkages to con.-r.mity services to help women and children secure the services they need to live free from their ::buser. Last year, the YWCA served 198 women and children In the shelter, a 6% Increase from the previous year. 11,604 days of shelter were provided with 4,158 provided to Evanston residents, an 11% increase from the previous year. The legal services program, based at the Skokie courthouse, helps women secure civil orders of protection and provides information to educate them about the court system and other community services. Last year over 305 women were assisted in obtaining orders of protection, an 11% Increase over the previous year. Sodeen percent of those women came from Evanston. Recognizing the need for a long-term supportive, stable housing for domestic violence victims, the YWCA's transitional housing program helps women gain a foothold in the community after they leave emergency shelter. Women can stay in the transitional housing up to two years, during which time shelter staff work with them to obtain permanent housing, employment and services. Since its inception the YWCA has served 21 families in the program. This year the transitional housing program has been expanded by 50%. To strengthen the walk-in services provided, the YWCA is offering bilingual one-to-one and group counseling for women (maximum of 4 persons) for women who have not left their abuser, but need support and information around the domestic abuse they are experiencing. The YWCA also has a school -based program, which tries to educate children about domestic violence and Is aimed to stopping the cycle of violence through early intervention. This cunic alum has been conducted in more than 12 schools since inception, including two Evanston schools. Last year 8,600 youth participated. This year the program will expand by working with middle school students in several community settings in Evanston. Prevention efforts have been expanded by launching Partners for a Violence Free Community as part of the annual week without violence. This collaboration brings together a wide array of community partners to raise awareness and develop concrete initiatives to end violence in our homes. Look for the YWCA's banners along Ridge Avenue. For 2006/07, the YWCAINorthshore is requesting $40.000 in CDBG funds, 4% of the total domestic violence program budget Ms. Singer said that the YWCA is very grateful for the funds it receives from the City of Evanston and thanked the committee for its support of this critical Issue. Ms. Singer said other communities support the YWCA shelter, but their support could be Increased. Skokie Valley United Way increased their funding, realizing that the funding level was ?J, Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes -October 18, 2005 Page 7 not commensurate with the level of services provided to their client base. As a result, Skokie Valley United Way gave the YWCA an additional $20.000 last year. Ms. Singer said as funds are requested from other communities, the case Is made about having a funding level commensurate with the numbers of women and children being served. One of the things the YWCA is going to pursue in the coming year is to obtain more funding from the City of Chicago, because a Large number of women from Chicago are served by the Evanston shelter. Aid. Hansen noted the Evanston Police Department has a liaison person who works with domestic violence victims and comes to the Skokie courthouse when cases are prosecuted. She asked whether the YWCA partnered with other victim assistance counselors from Skokie and other commurRi'es to fill a gap in services. Ms. Singer said that the two advocates at the Skokie courthouse do a lot of liaison work with the Evanston Police Department and StaWs Attorney's office. The YWCA does not participate in criminal proceedings, just civil actions. The YWCA advocates also have a very good relationship with the police departments from other communities. M Evanston Community DefendedEvanston Community Defender's Ofi<ice Bob Roy introduced Eric Sproull, part-time attorney for the Community Defenders Office. He sold he started working with the Defender's office five years ago as a volunteer. At the time he said that he had a fume career outside the legal profession and wanted to find a way to do legal work in a setting that would be valuable to the community. Mr. Sproull spoke about the unique combination of legal and social work services which are provided by the Evanston Community Defender's office and not by any other segment of the Evanston community. The segment of the Evanston community served normally would not seek out social work services in connection with the legal problems. The clients aoma from families that need extensive social services to help them in school, and to be safe and contributing members of society. They may reject offers of help until they are in a position where they have no choice. What should be a defining negative moment in their lives in juvenile cotst the Community Defender tries to make the experience a moment of opportunity. The Meniie court requires the offenders must comply with court orders to engage with social work staff at the Community Defenders office. These persons may not accept social work services under any other circumstances. Mr. Sproul said most of their clients are teenage males up to age 17. Mr. SprDuR said he represents them in the juvenile court system. (Youth, seventeen years of age and older are prosecuted in the adult court system.) He discussed the transformation of high school youth which Interact with the Community Defenders office and are engaged with the social worker. Probation officers are not always available to help the youth in the community; this is where the Community Defenders office's services are so important Kim Dunlap said she was the Office Manager for the Evanston Community Defenders office. Ms. Dunlap said she had a background teaching in the Chicago public school system. She said when the opportunity to work at the Community Defenders office presented itself, she saw it as an opportunity to both educate and serve a community In need. Ms. Dunlap said the thing she enjoys most about working in the Community Defenders office is Evanston youth are given opportunities to access services In the community that they would not normally seek. Mr. Roy said almost 25% of the population of Evanston are children, in either middle school or high school. Residents, school social workers and agency personnel often call on the Evanston Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -October 18, 2005 Page 8 Community Defender's office for assistance. With the cutback in funding to other services provided by the State, the Community Defender's role in the lives of Evanston's youth becomes more significant Mr. Roy, referencing the City's Consolidated Plan, discussed the priority of preparing youth In the community for a better future. Another priority discussed in the plan is to reduce the effect of crime, vandalism, gang activity and other anti -social behaviors, Mr. Roy also discussed some of the outcomes achieved in the past year. While the Evanston Community Deferdtees Office engages in legal and social work activities with Evanston youth, its objective is to preserve the potential future of kids who have had an encounter with the criminal justice system. He said that people think once the matter Is settled in court that is the end of it. But later on, things can happen, eviction because a child has a conviction In criminal courk etc., which impact on the Individual and his/her families. One of the goals at the Community Defender's office is to advocate for and try to preserve an individual's options (who has had a proceeding in the criminal justice system). As a result, the Evanston Community Defender's Office collaborates with other community service organizations. Mr. Roy said the Defender's office currently has a three year collaboration with Y.O.U. under a title 11 program, to provide case management, outreach, and aggression replacement therapy. Teaming up with YOU more resources are available to the Community Defender's clients. Mr. Roy also discussed youth court and youth mediation and the chaNenges with its Implementation. Aid. Rainey asked for information about the ages of clients served In the past year those age 17 and younger, clients age 17 and older. Mr. Roy said the Defender wcuki provide that Information to the Committee. He did point out that over 6D% of their clients ere school age or younger. About 95% of clients are African -American. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked whether the Community Defender was involved in the Govemoes efforts to get records expunged for ex -offenders. Mr. Roy responded that the Defender's office has been doing expungments for a long time, for those who are eligible. Eric Sproull said this was a project started with help from some law students a bng time ago. Mr. Sproull said If he were a full-time attorney, he would pursue expungments further. Families who have enough wherewithais come to the Defender's office to ask for help with the process. These matters require an intensive effort and it's a matter of having the 'manpower' to stick through a F complicated process. Mr. Roy explained that expungment is not a shatter of right. The Community Defender's office handled fifteen in the past year. He said he conducted training sessions, such as three at the Youth Job Center last year, in which he discussed things which can't be expunged from a person's criminal record, how to build a creditable history, and in those cases where things can be removed from the record. Mr. Roy explained to the workshop participants how to do it. in addition, the office is keeping records to track clients so they can determine when they are eligible to pursue expungment. Aid. Rainey commented, it was impressive, the Community Defender provides that service for its clients. Mr. Roy said this service is not provided by a Public Defender's office or a civil legal aid office. A10 Westside Residents Association/Restorabon of 1817 Church Street (Black Arrrerican Hgci9 House & Tochnotoaical Resource Center] Bettye Palmer, Project Director for the Black American Heritage House & Technological Resource Center located at 1817 Church Street, said the Westside Residents Association is requesting CDBG funds to continue to rehabildation of 1817 Church Street into the Black Housing b Community Development Act Committee Minutes —October 18, 2005 Page 9 American Heritage House. The association has entered into an agreement with David Bradley Archftects for, 'as is' drawings to develop concept plans and drawings for redevelopment of 1817 Church Street into a museum, and cultural and technological resource center. Ms. Palmer said David Bradley Architects has been hired to do 'as built' drawings of the building plus a proposal for renovation of the building. The "as built' drawings are completed. Ms. Pahw handed out a preliminary concept drawing prepared by David Bradley. Phase one of the project will be to renovate the first floor into offices, museum space and a kitchen. Phase two will be to determine whethoer it is possible to build out on the second floor level to extend the second floor to the length of the building. If possible, an outdoor coffee shop is one of the things to be a part of Phase two. The third floor will be a technology center. Ms. Palmer brought the committee up to date on the status of work at 1817 Church Street She said there are drainage and dumping issues, which need to be taken care of this fall. She said Um CDBG funding request is for Interior work to renovate 1817 Church Street. She recounted some renovation work which has already been completed by contractor Rick Hammelt (plumbing, HVAC, hot water heater, front window restoration). Aid. Rainey asked about the line items for plumbing and electrical in the financial section of the application. Ms. Palmer responded that plumbing and electrical work completed to date was for the HVAC and installation of a hot water tank. Ms. Palmer discussed other applications for funding which have been submitted to the Illinois state museum fund, Root2Fruit and other funding organizations. She said the CDBG funds would not be the sole source of funding for the Black American Heritage Center. Ms. Palmer was asked to fill out a schedule for the project on p. 11 and 12 of the application. Aid. Bernstein asked about the type of programs which will be conducted once the renovation of the building is completed. He added that having a coffee shop, and gift shop sounded like commercialism to him. Further, having the technological center on the third floor impressed Aid. Bernstein as a negative rather than positive factor. Ms. Palmer said there will be a research facility and library on the upper floors. 1817 Church Street will become a repository for Blade American history. Ms. Palmer also discussed relocation of the Fleetwood/Jourdafn Art Guild from the second floor of the Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center to the heritage center and operating a job training program at 1817 Church Street The purpose of the computer center is to train people in computer skills as part of the job search, the importance Is not all families have computers at home. Al 1 Metr000lita- Family ServiceslPsvchiatrfc Services Ibr Parents Executive Director Sandra Stumme said Metropolitan Fames Services is seeking continued funding to provide psychiatric services for an underserved population, parents of children already receiving psychiatric services through the agency. The parents do not have chronic or extreme mental health problems, but they have problems which prevent them from caring for their children, many times limiting what Metropolitan Family Services can do to help the children. There have been 45 families at any one time In the mental health program; one-half of the families are from Evanston, one-half from Maine Township. Services are contracted with two psychiatrists who provide psychiatric services for Metropolitan Family Services' clients. One of the psychiatrists Is also Frcensed to work with adults. That person provides the psychiatric services for the parents. The psychiatrist counseling the adults Is the same person who works with the children. After an initial assessment, the psychiatrist tries to Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -October 18, 2005 Page 10 meet with the clients once of twice a month to regulate medications and provide other counseling. The parents also work with Metropolitan Family Services social worker to provide ongoing services that they may need. Estimated cost is $500 per client and the proposal is to serve 10 adults during the upcoming program year. The program is limited to the parents of the children already served by Metropolitan Family Services. If the program were to be opened up to the community at large, then the need for services could not be met. Ms. Stumme said the program is targeted to this population because their needs are not chronic mental health needs and they are not able to 'fit' Into the state's system. The state only provides mental heakh services for adults who are chronically mentally ill. If a person has a serious mental health problem, such as depression, but it has not manifested itself to a degree to require hospitalization, these persons are not covered by the state's mental health program. Children are referred to Metropolitan Family Services by school counselors, Y.O.U., the Evanston Police Department, Family Focus and other organizations which interact with them. Metropolitan Family Services is the state provider for mental health services for children. The chidren are usually seen by the agency's psychiatrists for about a year, which is what the state requests. The hope is that after the family and chill are stabilized, then the family can be referred to another agency. Al2 Evanston Community Development Corooration/Evanston Community Develoornerg Coraomwn Cathy Katona introduced herself as the part-time Executive Director for the Evanston Community Development Corporation (ECDC). Ms. Katona Introduced ECDC board members present Dino Robinson, Annette Logan and Bennett Johnson. Ms. Katona said she was hired two months ago by ECDC to be their part-time Executive Director and to work with the board of directors In implementing ECDC's strategic plan. Ms. K kxm discussed some of the accomplishments in the Church/Dodge area: the adoption of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) legislation by the City Council for west Evanston; west side neighborhood plan, which was also recently accepted by the City Council. and ECDC's own Strategic Plan. Ms. Katona said these are some of the tools that she will be working with as she Implements ECDC's strategic plan. The three main program objective on which ECDC will be focusing on in the corning year are: (1) business development, (2) job trainingfjob creation; and (3) housing. ECDC has akeady established many relationships and partnerships in the community such as with the Evanston Community Development Association, Organization Latino Evanston, Housing Opportunity Development Corporation. Evanston Inventure and the First Bank & Trust of Evanston, as well as with other banks and many developers and local land owners that are focusing on west Evanston. The programmatic budget for next year will be $153,000; $80,000 (60% of the operating budget) Is being requested in Evanston CDBG funds. There are several things which ECDC would like to do on the business development side. ECDC already has a $60,000 written commitment of funds from the First Bank & Trust of Evanston: $50,000 for a business development revolving loan fund and $10.000 toward operating expenses. The revolving loan fund will provide access funding for support of small and minority -awned businesses in the ChurclUDodge area. Other area banks will also be solicited to provide ban funds for the small business development program. Funds will also be used to provide technical assistance to the business applicants. A survey will also be undertaken of the existing Housing b Community Development Act Committee Minutes -October 18, 2005 Page 11 businesses in the area and to set up a small business support network. The goal of the revolving ban fund is to fund it with $200,000. ECDC would like to continue focusing on affordable housing development opportunities. ECDC wants to help people, who want to corrtinue to live In the ChurdVDodge community, to be able to afford to do so. Relationships have already been established with two development projects for this area. ECDC has entered into an agreement with Housing Opportunity Development Corporation (HODC) that the 23 unit building proposed for Darrow/Church be entirely rent to own affordable housing. A verbal agreement has been established with Walter Kihm (developing 42 unit townhomes on former Edward Hines lumber yard on Church Street) as well as HODC that the two projects for minority contractors will be utilized in the construction and set -aside a certain number of units in both developments for affordable housing. Regarding job creation and training, ECDC is interested in working with the developers to Increase jobs for area residents in the new construction and to provide job training to increase residents' employability skills. Ms. Katona introduced Dino Robinson, co-chair of ECDC and has been living at 2121 Church Street for the past 8 years, and Annette Logan, vice -chair of ECDC, who lives at 238 Lee Street. Aid. Rainey said the proposal ►+eras unclear about what the goals of ECDC were. It seemed, to her, that goals were Included in the application which would be acceptable to a range of interested persons. Mr. Robinson said small business retention and development was one of the main goals for ECDC during 2006107. Aid, Rainey also wanted to know about the role of the owner of a number of storefronts in the Chur&JDodge area was. Ms. Logan said that the owner Is one of a group of property owners in that area and named several other business owners in the ChurchlDodge area, including herself, a realtor, who are a part of the ECDC organization. ECDC has also hired Evanston resident, Angela Price, as a consultant to the organization. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked about ECDC's relationship to the proposed housing project at Darrow/Church. He asked whether ECDC advocated for the project and helped puff the entities together to help get the project underway. Aid. Holmes added that the Darrow/Church housing development project would not have been possible without the assistance of ECDC, who approached HODC about the project A partnership has been developed between ECDC and HODC in which ID-15% of the developer's fee will go to ECDC, with the balance to HODC. ECDC does not have income, but it does have connections in the community to help developers and other businesses. ECDC will provide screening of potential residents and the education piece of the new housing project. The goal will be for ECDC to become the management company for the new building. After a period of time, the rental units will become condos and ECDC will counsel persons wanting to purchase the condos. Mr. Robinson and Ms. Logan also discussed efforts to keep the community Informed and opportunities to invite residents' participation. Aid. Rainey asked about the numerous job training programs which are proposed for residents in the Church/Dodge area, including the one proposed by ECDC and the job preparation program operated by the Youth Job Center at the high school. She wondered If efforts were being fragmented by several job training programs. Discussions continued on TIF funds which have been sent to the high school for use in job training programs. Bennett Johnson volunteered to discuss the matter with the high school. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -October 18, 2005 Page 12 IV. COMMUNICATIONS A. YWCA's partners for a Violence -Free Community Events B. Connections for the Homeless - Introduction of New Executive Dimctor C. Proposal A6 Evanston Day Nursery - Signature page, Minutes of 9127I05 Board Meeting and copy of 10/11/05 Audit D. Evanston Mental Health Board -- MHB 2005 Funding Allocation Process E. Evanston Housing Commission: Summary of 9115/05 Meeting & Minutes of 8118105 F. SB75: Rental Housing Support Program G. HUD: Jackson and Chertoff announce comprehensive transitional housing assistance program for Katrina evacuees H. News Articles: -USA Today: National taking a new look at homelessness, solutions -Batrie over residential fire safety is heating up ire, rescue workers may be added to discount plan -Public to see Ideas for suburbs -Overseas banks U.S. mortgage bonds a risky mix 4Aaking sense of the renting vs, buying equation -Report from Fed links race and high, subprime mortgage rates -Consider your home an asset if you plan to keep it -High-cost markets score low on foreclosures, delinquencies -Lenders. Consumers push for accurate closing fees -Keep cool on the heat -Slowing market means noWs the time to dump private mortgage insurance -Hurricanes' wrath exposes substandard home building 4)emographers say it's time to learn to love subdivision Accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. V. STAFFICITIZEN COMMENT V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Committee, the meeting adjourned at 18:55 p.m. Staff: 4�" Date: November 7. 2005 i J City of Evanston MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT COMMITTEE MINUTES Tuesday, November 1, 2005 7:00 P.M. — City Council Chambers Evanston Civic Center Aid. Rainey, Aid. Jean -Baptiste, Aid. Bernstein, Aid. Hansen, Lisa James, David Schoenfeld Kenneth Rodgers Sally Lufkin, Community Development Department OTHERS PRESENT: Cara) Downs, Gail Schechter, Jackie Grossman, Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs; Patricia A Vance, CEDAlNeighbors at Work; Adam Pick; Jan Weeks; Lary Biondi; Matt Passen; Joyce Mutchinson; Mary Friedl; Betsy Uzzell; Lloyd Shepard, Bill Stafford, Finance Department; Bob Nelson, Fire Department PRESIDING OFFICIAL Ald. Rainey, Chair t. CALL TO ORDERIDECL.ARATION OF QUORUM Aid. Rainey called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m., a quorum being present. 11. 2006M7 CDBG PROGRAM - COMMITTEE REVIEW OF AGENCY APPLICATIONS AA1 Interfaith Housina CenterlHomesharina Proc7ram Executive Director Gail Schechter said Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs is celebrating its 33'0 year of operation, founded by congregations and civic organizations, such as the League of Women Voters, to promote inclusive and diverse communities. This is done through fair housing work, advocacy for affordable housing and one-on-one work through the sixteen communities throughout our service area. Ms. Schechter introduced Jackie Grossman, Homesharing Coordinator. Ms. Grossman said that Interfaith made 42 Homesharing matches last Fiscal year, 24 in Evanston, either residents or people working in Evanston. Homesharing is a wonderful way to use existing housing stock to promote affordable housing opportunities. She related the story about a successful match recently completed. Committee members discussed with Ms. Grossman about ways to better publicize the Homesharing program, including additional collaborations and publicizing Homesharing through church bulletins. Housing a Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 2 AA2 Interfaith Housinq CenterrPredatory Lendina Ms. Schechter said that Interfarth is mid -way through the second year of its Predatory Lending program. The emphasis of Me first two years has been on community education to make people aware of the signs of predatory lending and getting people to come forward before they get deeply involved in foreclosure proceedings. Interfaith is now doing more one-on-one counseling With clients and referrals from other agencies While Interfaith will continue to do community education, it would like to expand the Predatory Lending program to serve homeowners who are Involved in predatory lending situations. At this point in the program year, Interfaith has already served twice as many predatory lending clients as it had set out in its targeted goals for the year. Ms. Schechter introduced Carol Johnson Downs, newest member of the Interfaith staff, who is the fair housing coordinator. Ms. Downs said that they had a target number of serving 5 families, considering that predatory fending is a heavy issue. Ms. Downs explained the predatory lending process, as a loan product Ms. Downs said that she has been an Evanston resident for over 40 years; she and her children have gone through Evanston schools. Ms. Downs said that she is passionate about the issue of predatory lending and really fights for Evanston families to help them out of predatory lending situations and to educate them on how to avoid the predatory lending process. She related two stories about predatory loans, which she has worked on at Interfaith in the past year. Aid. Jean -Baptiste asked if Interfaith had a listing of brokers who are complicit in the practice predatory lending In the Evanston area. He asked if the brokers who are exploiting the residents are targeted by Interfaith. Referrals are usually made by families. Ms. Downs said that Interfaith has an agreement with Owwen Financial Services. Owwen is trying to make better loans to correct past practices, which could be categorized as predatory lending practices. Interfaith has a listing of families who have Owwen loans and has sent those families information about who to contact In the event there are problems with the bans. Owwen is willing to revamp loans so that families do not lose their homes. Owen actually services loans and in the process of doing thing Owwen saw the more and more families were being foreclosed on their loans in Evanston as well as in other parts of the country. Owwen decided to work with these families to help them retain their homes. Ms. Schechter said subpnme loans are 6-7% of total market share of loans in Evanston. However, 17% percent of those loans are concentrated in certain census tracts. AA4 CEDA/Neiahbors at Woddhfinor RenairsMafntfna Assistance Prooram Patricia Vance, Executive Director, said Neighbors at Work is seeking skilled or semi -skilled painters and carpenters. Ms. Vance said she was requesting continued funding for the Minor Repairs/Painting Assistance Program, which has been in operation for 20 years. There is still a need for the program to efrminate conditions of deterioration and blight in residential buildings. Many of the homes are older housing stock. Priority is given to houses which have been cited by the City's Property Standards Division with code violations to try to make repairs before it is necessary to bring their cases before Housing Court The majority of people served are low Income, tend to be senior citizens and usually reside in the CDBG Target Area. There have been some challenges this past year in terns of staffing. but the program now has a full crew of four who worts 40 hours a week. Staffing challenges showed down the number of projects Neighbors at Work has been able to complete. One of the supervisors was on Injury leave with a workers' compensation claim pending for most of the year, but the claim is now Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 3 resolved and he is back to work The handyman is separate from the two work crews. Ms. Vance said that she is looking at ways to maximize the 2 man painting and minor repair crews and ways to incorporate volunteers into the program. Sometimes financial institutions take on volunteer projects. Neighbors at Work would assist them in adopting a house. The reason Ms. Vance is seeking volunteers to assist on minor repairs and painting projects is because of limited funds available for the program. C5 Human Relations Commission/Housina Advocacy Paula Haynes, Executive Director, said the Housing Advocacy program administers the CiVs. residential landlordttenant ordinance and processing fair housing complaints. The Human Relations Commission receives approximately 2,500 inquiries about the landlord/tenant ordinance a year. Callers are advised of their rights and responsibilities and staff ensure that the ordinance is followed. Many calls are about security deposits and maintenance problems. Periodically, Human Relations staff conducts workshops for landlords and tenants in an attempt to keep them informed about the provisions and responsibilities of the landlord/tenant ordinance. Sometimes, basic maintenance of apartments is taught and 'Mom and Pop" landlords are provided assistance by staff by reviewing leases to ensure they are correct. Ms. Haynes said Housing Advocacy staff also do housing audits, process fair housing complaints, conduct educational sessions for realtors and other community groups and mediate complaints and disputes. C6 Human Relations Commission/Summer Youth Employment Pnovram The Summer Youth Employment program was started in 1991 is a program which provides summer employment for Evanston high school youth between the ages 14-18. This past summer 107 youth were hired. Over 400 youth visited the spring job fair. Ms. Haynes discussed the organization of the job fair and the process by which students seek jobs for the summer. Most of the jobs are with City departments; however, the prorate sector also participated in the summer youth employment program. Nine businesses hired 53 youth for the summer on a 50-50 cost sharing basis. Some of the businesses paid the entire cost of the youth. Youth worked at large organizations, such as Evanston Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and the Salvation Army. City jobs included office jobs, counselors, recreation aids, develop a public service video, and crews which do clean up in the alleys and other public areas. There was also a crew which painted light poles. This year 67 tons of garbage was collected. Most 14-15 year olds start on the clean up crews and in later years move on to other summer jobs. There is also an educational requirement in the program. This year a compare and contrast program was initiated. Two Field trips were conducted: one to Cook County Jail and one to a college or university. Both visits had a big impact on the youth. CDBG funds will be used to hire the supervisory staff for the nine week program. Ald. Rainey noted that the funding request is almost double the amount requested for 2005. Ms. Haynes explained the reason for the increased funding request is that the program does not have a permanent position to administer the program. An office coordinator needs to be hired to plan the program, conduct the job fair, make contact with businesses and City departments in Evanston to set up summer jobs, to hire supervisory staff and do everything necessary to implement the program. Ms. Haynes said she will work with the person, but the summer youth employment program needs someone who can focus completely on running the program. In the past the office has had a full-time position to coordinate the summer youth employment program. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes -- November 1, 2005 Page 4 The program also needs a field coordinator. supervisors, tool truck drivers. Ms. Haynes is able to recruit some volunteers, but also needs capable paid staff to run the program. Aid. Rainey said the real increase in the Summer Youth Employment program budget is for the 50-50 portion, the salaries paid 50% by the City and 50% by the private employers, which will come from the City's general fund. Ms. Haynes said it is proposed to hire full-time supervisors for the summer. Having part-time supervisors in past years did not always work well. C7 Public Works/2006 Allev lmnrovement Program Public Works Director David Jennings said $300,000 for alley paving in the 2006/07 program year. In 2005 4 of the 9 alleys completed were located in the CDBG Target Area. For 2006/07, 3 of the 8 applications received are located in the CDBG Target Area. Mr. Jennings said rough cost estimates have already been prepared; and those three Target Area alleys can be paved with a $300,000 grant award. The City's alley paving program is a 50150 program with 50% of the cost of the paving pr*,d coming from general obligation bonds and 50% being paid by adjacent property owners. CDBG funds are used for the City's 50% in the CDBG Target Area locations. Over one-half of the alleys throughout the City have been paved — over 300 paved out of a total of 600 alleys. Alleys are paved only at the request of residents, who sign a petition requesting that their alley be paved. The Engineering Division prepares cost estimates for an alley, which is attached to the petition. The City W11 undertake an alley paving project if 51% of the property owners sign the petition for the project Each property is assessed by a unit method of calculation; every dwelling unit pays the same amount. The City also has a CDBG funded Special Assessment Assistance program, which pays eligible low/moderate income property owners' special assessments. Oualification is determined using HUD's Section 8 income limits and documentation is required at time of application for the special assessment assistance. The special assessment assistance program is offered to any resident who meets the income qualifications. If a resident qualifies for special assessment assistance, 100% of the assessment will be paid by the program. Information about special assessment assistance is provided at community meetings before a project is undertaken and mailed out with the special assessment notices at the end of the year in which the alley project is completed. There is currently a fund balance in the special assessment assistance program, so no new funds are being requested at this time. C8 Public Works/Block CurblSide walk Prooram Mr. Jennings said the funding request is for $100,000 for 2006/07. This past summer 1,160 ft of curb face and 9,000 square feet of sidewalk (2,000 linear feet) were replaced. Block curb and sidewalk replacement means that entire blocks of curbs and sidewalks are replaced. The City has a separate 50-50 sidewalk replacement program, funded outside the CDBG program, in which sections of sidewalk are replaced at the request of the property owner. Some curb replacement also is done under the 50-50 program. C9 Public Works/2006 Accessible (ADA) Ramn and Sidewalk Proaram Mr. Jennings said that 2006/07 will be the fourth year for the accessible curb ramp program. In 2005 60 curb ramps were completed, which included 960' of reworked curb. 8,870 square feet of sidewalk was also repaved in 2005, as part of the accessible ramp program. Not all of the accessible issues can be corrected by curb ramps along. There are missing pieces of sidewalk, Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 5 and the City is now paving linear walk in areas where there has not been accessible walk. Mr. Jennings cited the example of the new sidewalk behind the Civic Center, along Simpson Street linking the entry drive to the parking lot to a sidewalk further to the east. The next sidewalk makes it possible to access the Civic Center without going through the parking lot. The ramps have changed in design; they are now color coated, although the basic ramp is still 'button' style. The button area of the ramp is dyed red and the remainder of the ramp is white. Red and white are not mandated: the ramps must be of contrasting colors. C10 Evanston Fire DeoartmenVSmoke Detectors for Seniors Bob Nelson said he works in the Fire Department's Fire Prevention Bureau. Part of the job in the Fire Prevention Bureau is fire prevention awareness and life safety. Enforcement is done through fire building and life safe codes, witnessing the testing of all fire and life safety systems (fire alarms, sprinklers, emergency lighting, and public education and awareness programs). Mr. Nelson said the Fire Department will be putting on 25 programs with the life safety house this year, which was made possible by a 2003 CDBG grant. Public fire education has made great strides in Evanston and other locations. Fire is a universal problem and can be prevented by concerted public education efforts and by enforcement of fire safety codes. Although fire affects all people, certain groups are more vulnerable and subsequently at higher risk for fire related injuries and death. Fire safety is overlooked by people who are deaf or hard of hearing. They do not receive the same media and educational attention as the hearing population. The most significant invention for deaf and hard of hearing persons is the audible smoke alarm, which is mounted on the wall or ceiling to automatically sound when they detect smoke or combustion. Most fatal fires, more than 95%, occur in residential buildings between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., when most residents are asleep. Conventional alarms do not work as well for the hearing impaired. Hearing impairment is common among the older adult population. Nearly 40% of the population over age 65 have experienced some hearing loss. These individuals cannot rely on traditional, audible smoke alarms. They require visual alarms equipped with strobe lights. Evanston has approximately 8,000 residents over age 65, who could be living with hearing loss. Several companies have made visual, auditory smoke detectors specifically designed for persons with hearing loss. When smoke is detected, the unit produces both auditory and strobe light signals. When one of these alarms is activated. a strobe light will flash at 177 candelas, 60 times per second, a standard which has been proven to wake most people with hearing loss. Mr. Nelson said the CDBG funding request is for S13,000 to purchase auditory with strobe light alarms for seniors and other hearing impaired individuals who are in the low/moderate Income level. The cost of a hearing impaired smoke alarm is $169. The Gentex model DL2220 is ADA compliant, has a powerful strobe and hom that sounds when smoke is detected. They are AIC powered with a 9 volt battery back up and a 9' cord. so that they are portable. Gentex will provide the smoke alarms at a lower unit cost, $128 each, if the City orders at least 100 alarms. Mr. Nelson sald that fact helped him determine the amount of his CDBG funding request. The program has a dual emphasis: fire prevention and fire protection. Fire Prevention Bureau staff will meet with the recipient to discuss ways to make their homes safer, ensure that proper Installation is made of the smoke alarms, and utilize the services of the City's handyman program, where needed. A smoke alarm program of this nature is needed in Evanston. The National Fire Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 5 Protection Association recommends installing smoke alarms on every level and in every bedroom of a home. C11 Evanston Police Deaartment/Senior Crime Prevention Amanda Jones, Senior Crime Prevention Specialist with the Evanston Police Department, has held the position since 1999. She said her job is to make sure that the home and community are safe places, especially for seniors. In order to ensure that older persons living in Evanston live in safe housing, through crime prevention education programs, referrals to other City programs such as the handyman, the ombudsman and free safety assessments and security surveys, free alley lighting programs are provided by the Evanston Police Department. Seniors can become isolated in their own homes and part of what Ms. Jones does is reach out to seniors and assist them with their needs as well as link them to other community services. Both short -terry strategies to address immediate situations as well as long term planning services are offered by the Senior Crime Prevention program. Ms. Jones said that she watches out for potential threats to the health and safety of seniors, such as predatory lending situations, in which a senior can lose his/her home due to predatory lenders. Ms. Jones said that a large part of her job is connecting seniors to services, programs and benefits for which they are eligible. Ms. Jones said the Senior Crime Prevention is not a new program to CDBG; however, it addresses a community need which needs a lot of focused attention on it Cyber crime and identity theft are increasing and seniors are as vulnerable to these crimes as the rest of the population. Ms. Jones said that the population aging today has different ways of living their lives and needs than the generation before them, including drug and alcohol abuse. C12 Evanston Police Department/Community Services Youth Outreach Program Cynthia Harris, Director of Community Social Services, said she was speaking about two programs very important to the youth of Evanston. The Community Services Youth Outreach program is a two pronged program but the serves are interconnected. The Community Services program is designed for school aged children who have committed minor, criminal offenses. The purpose of the program is to steer the youth away from further criminal behavior and to deter them from having further Police contact The program also serves as a resource for the court system and as a support and resource for families seeking assistance. The majority of referrals come from the juvenile officers; they find the services of the department helpful for youth who are first or second time offenders. Referrals are also made from the City ordinance court on youth who have been referred to that court for a minor traffic offense or a curfew violation. The Skokie juvenile probation screeners will also refer youth to the Community Social Services bureau. The youth are required to complete a pre -determined number of community service hours. Evanston has approximately 21 community service sites where youth can be referred to complete their hours. It is also expected that the youth and histher parents will complete a counseling assessment in order to take a look at any underlying causes which could be contributing to the criminal activity of the youth. As a result of the counseling assessment, recommendations are made to the family, such as participation in family counseling or participation in substance abuse programs. At the end of community service a prevention plan is developed with the youth and fain4 with the hopes that there will be no further criminal involvement or police contact A recent six month review for seventeen youth who had completed their community service hours, only one youth had relapsed during the six month period. Housing r!< Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2006 Page 6 This program was formerly funded by the Illinois Information Criminal Justice Authority, but that funding has been discontinued at this time. Ms. Harris said the second component of this application is the youth outreach program, which strives to divert youth from crime and non -productive activity. Many of the youth have had Police contact or are at high risk of having Police contact. These youth tend to gather in community 'hot spots', in areas where Police will receive complaints about them loitering, engaging in aggressive behavior or illegal activity or being disruptive. The most vulnerable youth lack access to various services, such as health screening, employment readiness skills, etc. In response to concerns in the community about the youth and in response to the needs of the youth, the Police Department initiated this program. There are two teams of two street outreach workers each. They meet with the youth on their own 'turn, on street comers and in parks. The street outreach workers try to actively engage the youth with counseling, referrals to other agencies, organize and schedule recreational activities, take the youth to cultural events, and obtain memberships at the Evanston Athletic Club. The teams are in the neighborhoods during evening hours. Over the past year the street outreach workers have increased their participation in youth matters by intervening or mediating gang disputes. During the day one of the workers is available to provide case management services, such as help youth gain re-entry to school and help youth secure employment. The outreach workers also provide support for parents. This program was formerly funded by the Cook County Judicial Advisory Council. That funding has been discontinued and diverted into Homeland Security. C13 Health & Human Services/Adanfive Devices forAccessibility Program Jay Terry, Director of Health and Human Services, said the Adaptive Devices program was funded two years ago with CDBG funds. Funding was not requested for 2005/06 because the program had sufficient funds from the 2004/05 grant to continue it through the 2005 year. HHS is applying for 2006/07 CDBG funds to continue the program in the upcoming year. The program provides low/moderate income individuals with devices that help them live independently in their homes: grab bars, shower benches and raised toilet seats. HHS has found that low income individuals do not have access to adaptive devices. A lot of referrals come from hospital outpatient programs. The other advantage of the program is that it gives Ms. Dean an opportunity to observe conditions in the home or with the person, make an assessment. She can then make referrals for additional assistance. Aid. Rainey requested additional information about the vendors from which the adaptive devices are purchased and information on the types of devices purchased. Alisa Dean, program coordinator, said the vendors have been selected because they provide the product and do installation as well. C14 Health & Human Services/Handyman Services Mr. Terry said that the Commission on Aging's Handyman program has been very popular and well used by Evanston's low/moderate income homcawners over age 60. The Commission receives approximately 200 requests for service a year. The handyman is provided under contract with CEDAINeighbors at Work. In order to continue the program, it is necessary to request continued CDBG funding. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 7 C15 Finance Deoartment/Minonty, Women, Evanston Business Pmgram Finance Director Hill Stafford introduced Lloyd Shepard, the Minority, Women, Evanston Business (MIWIEBE) program coordinator. CDBG funds are requested to continue operation of the City's MIWIEBE program and will be used to fund the coordinator's position. Mr. Stafford discussed current year performance objectives and accomplishments. The City's ordinance was amended to expand the 5% price advantage to Evanston businesses to include RFP's and RFQ's. Monitoring continues on the Sherman Plaza Development project has two major contractors: W.E. O'Neill, which is building the City parking garage and is on target toward meeting the 25% M/W/EBE participation goal; and Focus Development, building retail development. The M/WtEBE participation rate with Focus is not as good as with O'Neill, results are less than 10% and issues are being resolved. Meetings are scheduled with Focus Development to work on increasing their MIWIEBE participation numbers. The MIWIEBE program conducted its first job fair to help Evanston residents find jobs working on the Sherman Avenue Plaza development_ Sixty-seven residents attended the job fair, of which 26 met the criteria for the developer. O'Neill hired 7 residents (6 laborers and 1 carpenter) and Focus has hired 2 residents, a sales representative and a marketing manager. The r annual Supplier Diversity Conference was held this year. Eighteen buying organizations. both public and private, participated. One hundred two female and minority owned and Evanston businesses attended the conference. Twenty five persons attended a financing seminar which was held in conjunction with the conference. Harris Bank, First Bank and Trust of Evanston, Merrill Lynch and the Small Business Development Center participated in the seminar. The M/W/EBE coordinator also attended the Chicago Business Opportunity Fair, held in the Chicago loop, which provided the City with opportunities to meet with more MIW/EBE firms so that when contractors come to the City, it can refer them to contracting opportunities. MIWIEBE purchasing is actively promoted for both small and larger (over $20,000) purchases. Mr. Stafford said he believes that the City will meet its goal of 25% M/W/EBE goal in both of these areas. Lloyd Shepard said on a daily basis he has Evanston residents visit his office who are seeking employment opportunities on construction projects in the City. Mr. Shepard refers those persons to the various contractors in Evanston. He also assists small businesses that would like to participate in City purchases. He also assists callers who are looking for Evanston businesses for construction projects or to make purchases. C16 Parks. Recreation & Forestry/Smith Park Renovation Director Doug Gaynor discussed the department's recent projects, which had been funded by CDBG. He said that Mason Park is approximately 70% completed. Bids have been awarded for the Fleetwood/Jourdain Roof Repair project and the Gymnasium East Wall project. Parks Superintendent Paul D'Agostino said for 2006107, Parks/Recreation & Forestry is requesting $280,000 to renovate Smith Park. The Park is located in the 2nd ward and is slightly larger than o acre. The property was acquired in 1961 and it is named after Elmer Smith, who was a long time physical education teacher in District 65. The CDBG funding request is approximately two-thirds of the total funding needed to renovate the park. The playground was the only part of the park renovated in 1992. The proposed project is to renovate the playground. Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 8 Incorporating current consumer safety requirements, but to install new lighting, new fencing and landscaping improvements. Aid. Rainey asked about involving the disabled community in the planning for park improvement projects. She referenced situations brought to the Committee's attention by that group and how it had increased her own awareness of some of the difficuttes they face traveling throughout Evanston. Mr. D'Agostino said that he has had a long conversation with Mary Friedl and the department will be looking at other ways to improve accessibility. AA3 Housinn Opportunity Development Corporation/HODC Housinq Counselingr Executive Director Richard Koenig said Housing Opportunity Development Corporation (HODC) is a not -For -profit organizations which develops affordable housing throughout the northern suburbs. HODC has developed over 200 units throughout the North Shore; own and manage 75 rental units in Evanston. HODC is applying for CDBG funding to provide housing counseling for its clients. HODC would like to increase the range of services offered to low and moderate income households by providing housing counseling services to teach people how to become homeowners. HODC has been provided homebuyer counseling for six years throughout the northern suburbs. For the past two years, more Evanston residents are seeking counseling through HODC's homebuyer program. Of the approximately 100 people who participate in the home buying seminars, 70-80% of them are Evanston residents. There is a large demand for housing counseling services for Evanston residents. The CDBG funding request will partially fund a staff position to do housing counseling in Evanston. HODC is a HUD certified housing counseling agency and has also received funding from Cook County. Cook County approved $69,000 for HODC to continue to provide housing counseling in the coming year. HUD has approved $17.000 in additional funding for HODC to continue providing housing counseling. With Evanston CDBG funds, HODC will be able to expand its housing counseling services in Evanston. Counseling is provided through group workshops and one-on-one counseling. Sessions meet once a month an the second Saturday of the month at HODC's offices. Flyers, brochures and other media mechanisms to advertise the workshops to the community. Between 5-15 people participate in group workshops. The workshops provide general information about the home buying process. If people are interested in pursuing additional housing counseling after attending the workshops, then one-on-one counseling is provided, which is a more in-depth service. The largest benefit to residents is the greater awareness of the home buying process and what is required to do that. Mr. Koenig discussed a pilot program conducted by HODC for City of Evanston employees; HODC assisted 2 employees to be able to buy their first homes in Evanston. HODC plans to offer housing counseling with the Evanston Community Development Corporation in its new offices at 1915 Church Street. HODC also has a counseling arrangement with the Evanston Community Development Association. C17 Communitv DeveloomentlCommunity Development Administration Community Development Director James Wolinski funds 50% of salary and benefits for the Community Development Director and Executive Secretary. Community Development Housing & Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 9 Administration oversees all services provided by the Community Development Department, including Planning, Zoning, Property Standards. Building, Housing Rehab Administration, oversight of the City's CDBG and HOME programs. Mayor's Special Housing Program and First Time Home Buyers Program. C18 Community Devek>vment/Housina Rehab Administration Mr. Wolinski said Housing Rehab Administration is 100% funded through the CDBG program. Funds provide salaries and benefits for three full-time employees: Assistant Director. Secretary and Housing Rehab Specialist as well as the line item budget for the operation of the program. Housing Rehab Administration administers the City's single-family and multi -family housing rehab program, which provides low interest loans to income eligible residents, and the First Time Home Buyer program, which was started in 1989. Mr. Wolinski said the City Council recently approved increased loan limits increasing single-family loans from $30,000 to $50,000 and from $7,500 to $20,000 per unit for multi -family rehab projects. Loans are made as either title transfer, meaning the ban is due at the time the title to the property is transferred, or on an amortizing basis for 20 years at 0%. The City is a participant with seven banks in the First Time Home Buyers Program. To date, 99 loans have been issued through this program. The program is a blended mortgage, with part of the mortgage at market rate and the remainder at 0% interest — nothing is required to be repaid for the first five years. C19 Community Devek>omenVHousina Code Compliance Mr. Wolinski said Housing Code Compliance is the backbone of the City's Fight against blight in Evanston. CDBG funding is requested for 100% funding for two full-time property standards inspectors' positions, who work exclusively in the CDBG Target Area, and 30% of 3 other property inspectors and 2 support staff in the Property Standards Division. Two years ago a downtown inspection program was begun. Every Monday there is an inspection of all alleys in the downtown area to ensure that dumpsters are closed and locked. If not, the property owners are cited. All 24 Type II restaurants are required to comply with a litter plan. Fines for not being in compliance can range from $250-500. Property standards is an inspection program of all rental property in Evanston, both mufti -family and single-family rental. Exterior inspections are made of owner occupied buildings on a complaint basis. The CDBG Target Area rental buildings are inspected on a two to three year cycle with the rest of the City inspected on the three to four year cycle. Fines totaling approximately $110.1300 have been levied against property owners who are not maintaining their property. The fines are collected by the City through the Administrative Adjudication process. C20 Community DeveloomentlGrarbti Technician -Graffiti Removal Procram CDBG funding is requested to support 50% of the salary and benefits for the City's Graft Inspector. This position was formed by combining two positions: Graffiti Technician and Sign Inspector. CDBG funding will be used for the graffiti removal activities of this person. Public property is cleaned of graffiti. Mr. Wolinski said that the program is very successful, but one that will probably never end. The Graffiti Technician removes approximately 3,000 pieces of graffiti from public property during the course of a year. To date the inspector has cleaned up approximately 2,800 sites. There is also a private contractor who cleans graffiti on private property. Approximatety 580,000 — 90,000 a year is spent cleaning up graffiti. Housing 3 Community Development Act Committee Minutes — November 1, 2005 Page 10 C21 Community DeveloomenUAdopt a Fancv Can Program C22 Community DevelopmentlNeiahborhood Storefront Imorovement Pfovram C23 Community DevelopmenVCDBG Administration III. COMMUNICATIONS A. A23 Kids & School Supplies — Certification and Board Minutes B. A2 — Legal Assistance foundation — Full copy of Materials related to CDBG Application C. Infant Welfare Society Fall Newsletter D. Evanston Housing Commission — Minutes of September 15, 2005 Meeting E. NCDA Washington Report for October 21. 2005 Accepted into the record by Ald. Rainey. IV. STAFF/CITIZEN COMMENT Mary Fried) addressed the Committee regarding curb cuts and accessibility issues for disabled residents. She said she thought that the impression was given, during the discussion of the application for 2006 curb ramp funds, that most of the locaWns listed in the curb assessment study had been addressed. She suggested that the study be checked, because she thought that a number of locations still needed to be corrected. Broken and raised sidewalks are a big problem for people traveling in wheelchairs, so not only do curbs need to be accessible, but it does a person no good to be unable to cross a street, because he/she may not be able to travel down a sidewalk because of the broken and raised curbs. A comprehensive program to correct curb cuts and improve the sidewalks as well is needed. Ms. Friedl also discussed accessibility and access routes to neighborhood shopping centers. Betsy Uzzell commented on the summer youth employment program and the experience of her son last summer in the program last summer. Ms. Uzzell discussed a search for a new home in Evanston in which some neighborhoods were inaccessible because of lack of sufficient sidewalks, which meant that her family could not live there because of its need for accessibility. She equated the situation to being the same as redlining a neighborhood. Residents from Hill Arboretum presented the Committee with letters discussing their accessibility concerns. V. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the committee, the meeting adjourned at 11:05 p.m. Staff. Date: November 15, 2005