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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1993M S DRAFT, NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COM a8SION THURSDAY * JANUARY 28, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 at 7:30 P.K. MEMBERS PRESENT: S. Brady, S. Calder, S. Cleave, J. Fiske, S. Payne, J. Ritter and R. Warshaw MEIMBHRS ABSENT: J. Kepler STAFF PRESENT: S. Janusz and H. Povalla OTHERS PRESENT: M. Classens, C. Woodrick PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF QQORDII S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:36 p.m. MINDTE8 OF DECEIWBER 17. 1992 Warshaw made a motion to approve the minutes of the Evanston Housing Commission meeting of December 17, 1992, with the following changes: On Page 7, quick should be quit, on Page 5, the "b" in objective is missing, on Page 4, the word statue should be statute. On page 3, Warshaw wanted it clear that Mr. Finnell had no intention of asking for money but wanted a fee waiver. Fiske seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. COMMUNICATIONS Plannna and Development Committee Minutes: November 23. Degember 14. and December 16, 1992 Calder and Fiske commented that the words Planning and Development did not appear above November 23rd. Cleave commented that there were a number of fee waiver requests. Calder asked how the fee waiver requesters were able to have their request placed on the Planning and Development Committee Agenda. She asked if the people making the requests understood the process. Brady answered that Alderman Drummer and staff has worked with these individuals. - Kinutes - January 28, 1993 page 2 Housing and Community Development Al2gk Grant Committee Minutes: December 8. 1992 Brady commented that the CDBG recommendations passed City Council unanimously. Brady commented that the Housing and Community Development Block Grant Committee put together a request for proposal (RFP) for the 1817 Church property. She stated that she has no idea what the response will be or if there will be a proposal with a housing component, but it is important that it then be given to the Housing Commission for review. S. Cleave stated that Alderman Rainey put forth the concept of giving a bonus for affordable housing. Warshaw stated that any housing project would have to be a CDBG related activity. Court Cases Ritter asked what happened on January 22nd, on the "Eating" case. Janusz answered that the case went to trial, the defendant was not prepared and the Judge was very angry with the situation. A hearing will be held January 29th. The defendant is asking for a continuance due to illness. Warshaw commented that she is disturbed by the changes of Judges. Janusz stated that Judges are shifted on a four to five month shift. He stated that the City has already presented its case concerning the "Ewing" case. The Housing Commission received without comment. Letterovd - vice Chairman of, „Eyangtgn Hogging Commission Cleave noted with regret that Dorothy Floyd had submitted her resignation. He wanted the minutes to reflect that the members and staff of the Evanston Housing Commission wish to thank her for her service, wish her well and will miss her. Warshaw stated that members of the Commission need to make a concerted effort to get more minorities and housing professionals to join the Commission. Woodrick asked if all of the Aldermen were going to be taken off the Commission due to the re -organization? Brady stated at this point, yes. However, there will be a public hearing on this matter. Ritter said that members of the Housing Commission should think of people they know and ask them to send an application to the Mayor. Brady suggested that this should appear as an order of business for the February meeting, in order to discuss the types of people that are needed on the Housing Commission. Warshaw reminded the Commission that some Housing commission members serve on the Housing and Mortgage Corporation Boards. A member of the Housing Commission with some background with loans should be found. - Hinuten - Januarp 28, 1993 Page 3 ondo Conversion Information Calder asked if a report could be made, something like a running total with new cases in bold print. S. Brady asked if this case could be used as an experiment. She suggested that a letter be sent to all tenants, asking their intentions of staying or moving and why. She suggested that a lead-in would be that the City of Evanston Housing Commission is interested in your plans. Warshaw added that we should say something that the Housing Commission is working on policy initiatives with condominiums and why are people choosing the option. Woodrick asked what was the purpose of writing the letter and gathering information? Brady answered to find out what is happening and if people are being displaced. Cleave stated that the Housing Commission should realize that people who are upset will be more likely to respond. ftmo - No Cash Bid Lots Jansuz reported that tax deeds for two properties have been received. The other two properties have passed the redemption period. The hearings for the two remaining properties will be held in March. Janusz stated that the turn around time between the hearings and issuance of deeds has been quicker than expected. OLD BUSINESS Evanston Housing Coalition H.o.K.E. Application Cleave commented that he hopes that the site control loans do not affect the purchase price on lots. Brady questioned if $7,500 was enough to get site control on six to nine lots. She indicated that $5,000 could be used on one lots She stated that she appreciated being kept informed on this project. Families In Transition - Guidelines and Procedu= Warshaw warned that any changes should be worded very carefully. She wants to push the program so that more families might be able to utilize the program. She insisted that good reporting is what is needed. Calder and Ritter agreed that good reporting will be necessary, but it should not be made too onorous, otherwise new sponsors will not be found. Brady stated that a fresh look and re- examination is a good idea. She thought that a subcommittee should be formed and that way the program can be intensively looked at. She stated that the rehabilitation program had been torn apart and re- worked three times. Now, the program is doing well and is meeting goals. she indicated that the Housing Commission and staff know a lot more about the program. Brady indicated that the application form is somewhat threatening. sue Payne, Joan Ritter, Sue Calder and Sue Brady volunteered for the subcommittee. Warshaw made a motion to set up a subcommittee for the purpose of examining the F.I.T. Program. Payne seconded the motion, all were in favor, and the motion carried. - minutes - January 28, 1993 Page 4 Election of VicQ-Chairman Brady made a motion to nominate Sue Payne as Vice -Chairman. Sue Calder seconded the motion. Hearing no other nominations, chairman Cleave asked for a unanimous vote to elect Sue Payne as Vice -Chairman. All were in favor. Amendments to Housing Commission Ordinance Fiske commented that the "and" in the last whereas clause should be deleted. Brady commented that the City Council adopted new rules about appointments and that should be a part of the Ordinance. Brady asked that the entire Ordinance be give to the Commission at the next meeting. She also stated that she wishes to see the entire Ordinance before she does away with the secretary position. Discussion of Washington Rational Project Cleave stated that the developer is aware of the Housing Commission's request for funds for housing related activities and programs. The Commission On Aging also made a request that funds be made available by the developer towards housing programs. Fiske commented that nothing conclusive was decided. Cleave stated that he plans to be at the next Economic Development Committee meeting. COKMENTQ Cleave stated that the YMCA has been in contact with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to investigate the possibility of receiving HOME funds. Cleave indicated that the response had been negative, and the YMCA has decided not to continue to pursue HOME funds. Brady asked about the H.O.M.E. Consortium with the County and wanted to know what was happening. Povalla indicated that there would be a meeting on Friday, February 5th, with the County and other consortium members. she indicated H.O.M.E. rules had changed and that administrative fees for tenant subsidies had been approved. She wanted the Housing Commission to study this issue. Povalla set the subcommittee meeting for February 11, 1993 at 7:30 p.m. He indicated that he would have to procure a room and would inform the subcommittee members. The meeting adjourned at 9:06 p.m. Housing Commission will be February Evanston Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, The next meeting of the Evanston 25, 1993, in Room 2403 of the Bill Povalla, Housing Planner DRAFT, NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COXHISSION THURSDAY* FEBRUARY 23, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOK 2403 at 7s30 P.K. MEMBERS PRESENT: S. Brady, S. Calder, S. Cleave, J. Fiske, S. Payne, J. Ritter, and R. Warshaw MEMBERS ABSENT: J. Kepler STAFF PRESENT: S. Janusz, J. Wolinski, and B. Povalla OTHERS PRESENT: Barry Issacson, Judy Herbert, Marcella Bicoff and C. Woodrick. PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF QUORUK S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:37 p.m. KINUTES OF J.ANUARY 28. 1993, Warshaw made a motion to approve the minutes of the Evanston Housing Commission meeting of January 28, 1993. Ritter seconded the motion. Brady wanted clarification of a few items. At the top of page 2, she indicated that the minutes should indicate that Alderman Drummer worked with the individual from his ward. She wanted it clear that the Housing Commission would like to review any proposals submitted for 1817 Church Street only if there is a housing component. Warshaw commented that on page 4, second paragraph should read she also stated that she wishes to see the entire ordinance before voting on eliminating the secretary position. Warshaw amended her motion to incorporate the changes. Ritter agreed, all were in favor and the motion carried. S. Calder entered the room. Cleave asked if the Housing Commission had an objection if the order of business was suspended in order to discuss items that members of the audience were present to speak on. Hearing none, Chairman Cleave asked members of the audience to introduce themselves and state which item of the agenda they wish to speak on. M .14IV,tJVula�tlVVl'ul�dlliV��u'�r,I�LIVI{IIN��� - minutes - February 23, 1993 Page 2 Judy Herbert and Barry Isaacson introduced themselves as members of the Housing Subcommittee of the Evanston Commission on Aging. The3 stated that the Housing Subcommittee of the Evanston Commission on Aging recently developed a strategic plan. They stated that their interests and the Housing Commission's interests overlap and that J is beneficial that both groups work together. They indicated that Commission on Aging's Housing Subcommittee is studying the feasibi] of a handyman program for the elderly. They stated that they were aware of the CEDA Program, but were interested in trying to guage t need. CHAS Certification-- Acorn Shelter Care Proaratn R. Warshaw made a motion to approve the CHAS Certification for the Acorn Shelter Care Program. Calder seconded the motion. S. Brady asked what the actual rents would be. Marcella Bicoff representing ACORN, stated that individuals would pay 30% of their income in ren She added that the person who is taking medications, may pay a lowe percentage of their income for rent. Brady raised a question about the affordability to Supplemental Security Income recipients. Marcella Bicoff commented that there would be two to three people living in each apartment and that other services would be incorpora into the Shelter Care Program. All were in favor of Warshaw's moti and the motion passed. CO IIIHICATIONS Plannina and Deve oj,oRment Committee Minutes: JanMary 11 and 25. 199 S. Cleave asked if the City was going to hire a full-time employee Sign Reviews. Wolinski answered that the proposal was to review th Appeals Board Amortization Schedule over a ten year period and that two interns would inventory signage throughout the City. When the amortization period is over, the City may hire a full-time inspector. Brady commented that eventually there would be a full-time person working on this. Housina and Communitv Development Act Committee Minutes: February 9. Both R. Warshaw and S. Cleave commented on the MBE/WBE Small Business Program. Cleave stated that a pre -bid conference designed specifi- cally to maximize the contracting opportunties for minority -owned, women -owned and local Evanston businesses on the library project, should serve as a context for our upcoming RFP. Cleave stated that he wanted everyone who was sent an RFP on the 1817 Church Street sale to be sent a vacant lot RFP. Court Cases Brady asked what happened at the February reference to the 2124 Ewing property. S. was not a Judge available to hear the case Department is trying to set a new date. 23, 1993 court date in =u Janusz answered that there _r_-- and that the Legal minutes - February 25, 1993 Page 3 Landlord -Tenant Report; January, 1993 Calder asked Povalla about the ten queries pertaining to condominium conversions. Povalla stated that most of the questions were third parties seeking information about the Condominium Conversion Ordinance. Povalla mentioned that a letter had been sent to the tenants of the 1235-41 Elmwood conversion requesting information on their continued residency in Evanston. Evanston HousingCoalition - HOME ARRl c tion Warshaw requested that Building and Zoning codes be added under item 4 of the Memorandum of Understanding. Warshaw stated that under item 11B, there should be something locking -in long-term affordability even though IDHA regulations are being used and undoubtedly, long-term affordability is guaranteed. Cleave asked how will the City enforce this Memorandum of Understanding? Will the City have a secured interest in the property? Cleave asked if the City would be in second or third position. S. Brady stated that she has alot of concerns with this project. She indicated that she sees the Housing Commission's role (a.k.a. the City) as giving GAP financing. she indicated that she does not have any idea of what the GAP is on this project. It could be $80,000 or $280,000 or nothing. she is concerned about the expenses per unit. She indicated that she has concerns that five properties may not be available. Warshaw interjected that IDHA needs to know that the City supports this project. Brady had a question how the total $180,000 was delineated at $90,000 title transfer loan and $90,000 being a 3% amortizing loan over a 25 year period? She asked if the $80,000 bank loan was the most EHC could get. Cleave commented that he thought the capital cost build-up was very optomistic. S. Brady thought aloud that $600,000 would be expended for five units and that the amount includes the purchase price and rehabilitaion costs. Brady made the suggestion that a sub -committee meet with George Gauthier and EHC to answer some of the concerns. Cleave commented that his over riding concern is that there is a time limit involved. Brady commented that at this time, she would not vote to approve the $180,000 expenditure. She indicated that alot of information would have to be transmitted to the Planning and Development Committee and the City Council. Cleave stated that his comfort level was not where it should be. He indicated that EHC should have explored the Home Loan Bank. Brady commented that she would like S. Cleave and R. Warshaw to work with staff to get answers to her concerns. Calder made a motion to form a subcommittee of the Evanston Housing Commission to work with EHC to update and rework the Memorandum of Understanding. She indicated that the members of the sub -committee should be S. Cleave, S. Payne, R. Warshaw and staff. S. Brady seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. RFp (Reauest For Proposal) Vacant LcLts Cleave commented that he had read the memorandum from the Legal Department and stated in the reverter clause, there should be something stating that if the property is sold within a ten year period, the new family must meet income guidelines. Cleave stated that he had a question on the last sentence of the memorandum. He stated that the last sentence should be deleted. Warshaw agreed stating that after the ten year period, the deed restriction would die, she did not understand why a certificate of completion should be issued. . I I . 1is hI I I I I II IIIY,iiGI19114� ,, i�Iu AL' i0lu - minutes - February 25, 1993 Page 4 Brady asked for clarification on how this program would work. Brady stated that developers would respond to the RFP and would agree to meet all of the criteria and will build on all of the lots. The Jones family buys a home, and they have incomes of 90% of median. Is there a limitation on the sale price? If the Jones family sells the home within ten years, what happens if the value of the home doubles? Warshaw stated that the homes have to be sold to low/moderate income homeowners and that the covenant creates a restriction on the sales price. Brady asked if the percentage of housing debt to income ratio for propsective buyers will be 35%. S. Janusz stated that normal housing debt to income ratio is closer to 30%. Cleave stated that he hoped that a developer might develop a loan program. Warshaw stated that potential buyers might pre -qualify for an Evanston First Time Home Buyers loan. Brady asked if there was a restriction to Evanston home buyers. Payne answered on page one. Brady asked if the debt to income ratio should be contained in the RFP? Cleave answered no, that the Commission may not want to make the RFP too specific. Brady asked about the interrelationship between a not -for -profit organization and a for -profit organization. Cleave stated that the interrelationship would be fairly open, what is wanted is an interface with the community. Brady stated that the not -for -profit would not necessarily be a development partner. Cleave commented that owner -occupied should be placed into the reverter clause. S. Janusz stated that the court hearing on the two remaining properties would be on March 18th. Brady commented that the project would come under the new Zoning Ordinance. She stated that existing references to the old Zoning ordinance should be deleted. Warshaw agreed, but that she stated that there was no guarantee that the new Zoning Ordinance would pass. Cleave suggested that a sentence be added explaining that the Zoning Ordinance is in the process of changing. Cleave reitereated that owner occupied should be incorporated into the reverter clause and that the last sentence of the clause should be eliminated or some "all clear" statement be given. He indicated that he was more comfortable with the elimination. Warshaw stated that the ten year provision specified in the reverter should stay. S. Payne asked that disability and age be added to the non-discrimination clause in the reverter. Payne also raised the question that the property shall be completed within 24 months is in conflict with the RFP and should be 36 months. Warshaw also stated that the words "not less than" should be stricken from the reverter clause. Brady made a motion to approve the RFP as amended. The amendments include a sentence on page 4 describing that income limits are set by HUD and are subject to change and all suggestions made to the reverter clause. Warshaw seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. Amendments To Housina Commission Ordinance Warshaw commented that the final "whereas" clause should be removed. (This clause refers to the statement such consolidation will result in the more efficient and effective conduct of City business and affairs). Cleave stated that Jim Kepler pointed out that the current Ordinance states three (3) renters. He stated that Kepler feels - Hinutos - February 25, 1993 Page S strongly that the number of renters should remain at three. Brady commented that it was not a question of liking or disliking a particular number, but it is a question of finding people and keeping them renters. Warshaw commented that once a member is named as a renter, they remain a renter regardless if they subsequently move. Brady commented that she agrees that renters are an important component but there is no reason to have three. Two as a base is sufficient, especially, incorporating the words "at least two." Warshaw commented that unfortunately not as many renters are involved in local government affairs. Fiske asked Cleave what his concern was. Cleave commented that there should be an outreach to ethnic groups and renters. Evanston has almost a 50-50 split between those who rent and who own. Calder commented that if the Commission becomes too specific on one group, then the Commission should become specific on ethnicity or should state a certain number of apartment owners. Specificity opens the Ordinance to all kinds of possible quotas. Cleave stated that tenants are different than other groups mentioned because so much of what the Housing Commission does relates to tenants. Brady made the suggestion to delete the words "and secretary." Brady also made the suggestion to delete "immediately upon its organization, the Commission shall select from its membership, a Chairman and Vice Chairman." she indicated that the wording should reflect that the Housing Commission will select on an annual basis, a Chairman and Vice -Chairman and that the selection will take place at the first meeting of the calendar year. Payne voiced her opinion that the number of tenant members of the Commission should remain at three. Brady commented that the sunset provision should be deleted as well. She gave a brief history why the sunset provision was incorporated into the Ordinance. Brady also made a motion to make the following changes to ordinance 94-0-92; Delete the last whereas clause, insert the words "at least three members who are residing in rental units"; Delete the last sentence of Section 5-6-2; Reword Section 5-6-3 to incorporate the deletion of secretary and the date of the election of Housing Commission Officers and deletion of the sunset provision. Payne seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. Calder commented that a system must be developed at getting informa- tion to the Planning and Development Committee. Brady suggested that the Chairman of the Housing Commission should request to be placed on the full packet mailing list for the Planning and Development Committee. 922k County HOME Consortium Fiscal Years 1994-1996 Povalla explained the memorandum which was a part of the packet. Brady made a motion that staff prepare a letter for the City Manager's signature expressing Evanston's intention to join the Cook County HOME Consortium for Fiscal Years 1994-1996. Calder seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. Minutes February 25, 1993 Page 6 CONNEWS Chairman Cleave asked for a status report concerning the F.I.T. subcommittee. S. Payne made a brief report. R. Warshaw commented that she did some brainstorming concerning people within the community who should be approached about filling in an application to become a member of the Evanston Housing Commission. A discussion ensured on possible individuals to approach. hRJQMWxEHT The meeting adjourned at 10:06 p.m. The next meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission will be March 26, 1993, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Sill Povalla, Housing Planner ' % DRAFT, NOT APPROVED NB�MRB PRESENT: XM BERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 at 7t38 P.M. S. Brady, S. Cleave, J. Fiske, J. Kepler, and S. Payne S. Calder, J. Ritter, and R. Warshaw J. Wolinski and B. Povalla G. Gauthier and C. Woodrick Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF QUORUM S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:35 p.m. MINIITES OF FEBRUARX 25. 1993 S. Brady made motion to approve the minutes of the February 25, 1993 meeting. J. Kepler seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. S. Cleave asked if there was an objection if the order of business on the agenda is suspended. Hearing none, Chairman Cleave skipped to Old Business: Evanston Housing Coalition -HOME Application. IV NSTON HOUSTNG COALITION - HOME APPLICATION S. Cleave told the Housing Commission that the Special Housing Commission subcommittee met last week with George Gauthier and Chris Helmsly concerning Evanston Housing Coalition's HOME Application. Cleave indicated that the request for $180,000 in Mayor's Special Housing fund money would be delayed because the Federal HOME Loan Bank was approached for funding. EHC is presently putting together an application. G. Gauthier stated that IHDA had looked favorably at their application. He indicated that all HOME funds had to be used by the end of 1994. Gauthier stated that the Federal HOME Loan Bank had been contacted and that if a member bank offers matching funds at below market interest rate, it would decrease the need for market rate financing. The Federal Home Loan Bank rate would take the place of the $80,000 bank loan and the $90,000 loan from the City. Thus, the Minutes - March ZS, 1993 Page 2 City would only have to utilize $90,000 of the Mayor's Special Housing fund. S. Cleave stated that he was very enthusiastic about this development and that he helped set up a meeting with Lasalle Northwest Bank. EHC will have an appointment to meet with the bank president shortly, since the HOME Loan Banks' application is due April 15th. S. Cleave stated that he had contacted the IHDA trust fund. A certain percentage of state transfer fund monies are placed into the IHDA trust fund. One of the major priorities is that a project should have a deep subsidy. Cleave explained that he had not received any additional information and that the deadline on this money is also April 15, 1993. Gauthier commented that if everything goes as planned, the blended interest rate on this project would be 3%. The EHC proposal, Gauthier continued, meets three out of the five priorities of projects helped by the Federal Home Loan Bank. Gauthier stated that the rents in the proforma are very low. S. Brady stated that the project was very exciting. She indicated that the Federal Home Loan Bank has been aggressive at getting projects in Chicago, but is now reaching out to the suburbs. G. Gauthier stated that EHC has extended two offers already. The options on the properties run until September 15, 1993. Both of the properties are on the City of Evanston's board -up list. An evaluation of an additional property is underway and an architectural study is being commissioned on another. Brady asked a question about operating expenses and management. She was concerned about the figures and the very close numbers. She asked if water, gas, and electric would be paid by the tenants? Gauthier answered, yes. Brady commented that the utility figures seemed very low. Gauthier answered that the figures were taken from HUD tables. Brady stated aloud that under the new loan, there would be more money going into reserves and that the vacancy rate is a bit high. Woodrick asked who would be the owner of these properties? Gauthier answered EHC. Woodrick asked who would be responsible for taxes? Gauthier answered EHC. Woodrick asked if eligibility would be for Evanston residents. Gauthier answered that there would be a strong emphasis on picking Evanston residents but because federal funds are being used, a community cannot discriminate against non-residents. Gauthier stated that the Federal HOME Loan application would be reviewed and acted upon within 60 days after the April 15th deadline. CoMMMCATIONS Planning and Davelooment Committee Minutes: February 22, 1993 The Evanston Housing Commission received without comments. Court Cases Brady asked what was happening on the 2124 Ewing address. Jim Wolinski answered that Judge Loverde will be back on the bench in July. Staff decided that it would be prudent to wait until Judge Loverde is back, otherwise, the entire case might need to be reheard. hanglord Tenant Report - February. 1993 The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. P u Y II lU LI W i 'i „ Y I II i I . iI , I ii iLdd 4,11 Jiiidi - Minutes - March 23, 1993 Page 3 1233-41 ELMWOOD CONDOlYiINI[iM QREBTIONNAIRE S. Cleave stated that the response is in line with expectations. J. Kepler commented that a building across the street from him converted to condominiums and only two of thirty-two families stayed. Cleave stated that displacement in a condo conversion is really two pronged, those displaced because they are squeezed out and have no place in Evanston to relocate to, and those displaced because they wish to continue to rent. Kepler commented that many of the people forced out of the building across the street were families with children. Wolinski commented that conversions sell quickly, but new condominiums do not sell as quickly. Draft: FY3993 County HOME Consortin proaram Description Povalla quickly went over the highlights of the program description. Povalla indicated that there were two issues which were unresolved. The first was the issue of what constitutes multi -gamily rehabilitation. The subcommittee of the consortium decided that it would be two or more units. The County wishes to change it to 16 or more units. The second issue was the allocation and distribution of the one million dollars in matching funds which the County has available through the corporate fund. The subcommittee wrote the rules that matching funds would be disbursed on a project by project basis. The County wishes to utilize a broader interpretation of the regulations to include that HOME related activities be eligible for the matching funds. HOME_ Prg-gram Overyie Discussion ensued between Povalla and the Housing Commission members concerning uses for HOME funds. Some ideas were discussed. Fire Damage and Board-UR Buildingn List The Commission went over the list of properties. commme S. Cleave commented that he had not heard from the IHDA Trust Fund concerning possible funds for the YMCA SRO rehabilitation effort. S. Cleave commented about the Buck Development Project and gave the Housing Commission an overview of what is happening. He indicated that the Economic Development Committee made no recommendation to the City Council. Cleave stated that the Housing Commission might want to investigate the possibility of getting a concession at "the back end" rather than "up -front." The idea that Cleave had was to have the developer pay X% of the condo sales price as a fee. Brady asked that Cleave's idea be passed to the Legal Department. - Minutes - Harch 25, 1993 Page 4 ANOURNMEM The meeting adjourned at 9:17 p.m. The next meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission will be April 29, 1993, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bill Povalla, Housing Planner d� ii ILR.1l h`li II.'iIYii�i DRAFT, NOT APPROVED C MEMBERS PRESENT: 14EM8ERO ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THIIRSDAY, APRIL 29, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 at 7t30 P.H. S. Brady, S. Calder, S. Cleave, J. Fiske, S. Payne and R. Warshaw J. Ritter S. Janusz and B. Povalla OTHERS PRESENT: Michael Sowinski, Earline Navy, Peter Eric Siegal, Gail Hrownmiller, Yvonne Dunne, Marilyn Claessens, Judith Herbert, Clarence Sutthers, Katherine Woodrick, Annette Goldman, Carol Moschandreas, David Futransky, Paul Wallace, Rev. Richardson, Mary Cox, Theala Murphy, Loretha Henry, and Cheryl Hauser. PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF QUORUM S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:40 p.m. LUTES OF KARCH 25. 1993 S. Brady made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 25, 1993 meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission. R. Warshaw seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. COMMUNICATIONS Plannina and Qevelopment Committee Kinutes: March 8 & I rch 22. 1993 The Evanston Housing commission received without comment. Court Cases R. Warshaw commented that it was good to see the number of court cases declining. S. Brady asked about the Ewing address case. S. Janusz explained that the Judge who has been hearing this case, has been absent because of surgery. R. Warshaw asked if another Judge will be hearing the case. Janusz answered that the legal staff decided that it would be prudent to wait until the original Judge is back on the bench to hear this case. - Hinutes - April 29, 1993 Page 2 Landlord Tgna t Report - March 1993. The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. OLD BUSINEBB Update EHC HOME project No one was present representing the Evanston Housing Coalition. NEW BUSINESS pu)21 c Commept Ses - City of Evanston-F-ive Year CHAS Bill Povalla, Housing Planner, introduced himself and gave a brief description of what a Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy is and how it interrelates with housing related activities within the City of Evanston. He thanked those individuals present and requested that everyone sign --in. The first individual to speak was Gail Brownmiller, representing Housing Options for the Mentally Ill in Evanston: Thank you for the opportunity to provide information for the new Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) report. I wish to address the area of housing for persons with mental illness. The most recent statistics received in our office from the Alliance for the Mentally -Ill of Illinois, indicate that "one out of five American families has a relative who has a mental illness." More specifically, "severe mental illness strikes 1 out of 14 people." Severe mental illnesses are brain diseases which includes thought disorders like schizophrenia, affective disorders like depression or manic depression, and character disorders. One out of 14 is 7% of the population. If you applied that number to Evanston's population, it would suggest that 5,230 Evanstonians suffer from mental illness. For many persons with severe mental illness, their illness makes it very difficult to maintain a regular job. For those persons, Social Security Insurance (SSI) is their only income. In FY 93, the minimum SSI payment is $434 per month. The current CHAS statistics indicated that the average studio apartment in Evanston rents for $455 per month. This is more than the total SSI payment. You can clearly see that affordable housing is a critical need for persons with mental illness. That is why Housing Options was created, to provide an array of affordable housing options in the City of Evanston for persons with mental illness. Our first program serves ten persons and our second program opening this summer will service six more persons, for a total of sixteen. We have begun tracking our requests for housing and we currently receive from two to six phone calls per week. During the last year, we estimate that we have received over 125 requests for affordable housing for persons with mental illness. - xinutes - 'April 29, 1999 Page When we publicize new vacancies, the number of requests rises significantly. Last year, when we opened our program, we received over 60 requests In two months for the ten program vacancies. There is a need for a variety of housing options and services which are listed below. We would be happy to provide more detailed descriptions if this would be helpful to the CHAS process. TYPES OF SOUSING NEEDED FOR PERSONS HITS XENTAI, ILLNESS IN EVANSTON: 1. Low-cost apartments with staff support 2. Single room occupancy units with staff support 3. Group homes of various sizes and staffing .levels for transitional and permanent living 4. Respite care and emergency care 5. Share -A -Nome programs 6. Low-cost independent living arrangements without staff 7. Housing for those with mental illness who have additional special needs such as youth, elderly, physical and developmental disabilities, parents with children, and substance abuse 8. Institutions such as Intermediate care facilities and hospitals TYPES OF FUNDING NEED TO SERVE PERSONS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS: 1. Housing development and acquisition 2. Housing rehabilitation 3. Rental assistance 4. Staff services to support persons in community based housing S. Pre -employment training and supported employment opportunities 6. Job placement programs 7. Day treatment programs to assist independent living skills B. Community education about mental illness to decrease the current .level of stigma 9. special programs for recreation and socialization to facilitate community Integration 10. Staff training and development to create new programs and to enhance the quality of services available 1,i11 Ni tlih , W . a II ii I .WI . I . I II i . . . ., tl, _ milk C a . II u h 1 i Y Y 1 1 1 1 i wNii, - Minutes - April 29, 1993 Page 4 Mental illness is a devastating disease that strikes families from all walks of life, regardless of age, race, income, religion or education. Affordable housing is a critical factor that can prevent homelessness or hospitalization for persons with mental illness. Try to Imagine your life if you didn't know where you were going to sleep or hoar you were going to pay for it. I encourage you to make low -.income, special needs housing a high priority as Evanston develops the now Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy. Thank you for your consideration. Cleave asked what is meant by "mentally ill." Ms. Brownmiller stated that it refers to a psychiatric illness not to be confused with developmentally disabled. Brady stated that mentally retarded individuals would not be considered "mentally ill." Katherine Woodrick asked who makes the determination if someone is mentally ill? Brownmiller answered that it really makes no difference for purposes concerning housing since the people which she is talking about are already in the system. Cleave asked if there is a high instance of substance abuse? Brownmiller answered that there was a very high incidence of substance abuse, however, most people who her organization serves are not presently abusing any substances. Carol Moschandreas was the second speaker, she introduced herself to the Housing Commission and explained what programs the Center for Public Ministry operates. The Center for Public Ministry operates the Homeless Shelter and a scattered site transitional housing program. The "Center" has three apartments and 15 families were helped the previous year. The "Center" also served 150 families who were homeless or threatened with homelessness. Ms. Moschandreas stated that Township Assistance is not high enough for recipients to find housing in Evanston. It is a question of justice. Market priced housing is not only unavailable for Township Assistance recipients but also readily unavailable for families who receive AFDC. Moschandreas stated that most of the individuals that are helped by the "Center" are working full time, at very low paying jobs. The average income for a family utilizing the shelter and transitional housing program is below $850. She indicated that the transitional housing apartments rent for $570 per month. People who make $850 a month or below are constantly in danger of homelessness since anything can push an individual over the edge. single individuals have very few housing options as well. The largest SRO in Evanston is operated by the YMCA and is for men only. The YMCA is relatively high priced and does not furnish cooking facilities. There are few SRO's for women. Moschandreas stated that SRO's need to be supported and SRO housing needs to be created. She indicated that historically, SRO's were widespread at the turn of the century and provided eating facilities and cultural activities. The Margarita Inn in Evanston was one of these SRO's which were marketed for women. Moschandreas stated that low income apartments for families should also be a goal. She Al . d, . "It t, minutes - April 290 1993 Page 5 stated that programs like the Families In Transition Program are wonderful and should continue. The only way of helping the low-income families is through rental subsidies. Moschandreas indicated that the Evanston occupancy codes are very middle class. She stated that the first apartment she lived in would not have met the Evanston standards. She indicated that the space requirements contained in the BOCA Code was very middle class. She stated that increasing the number of unrelated people that can live together would allow low income individuals and families to maintain housing options. Moschandreas thanked the Commission. Cleave commented that he agreed with many of the points that Moschandreas made. However, money is a problem. He indicated that the City was very active, encouraging not -far -profit builders to come to Evanston. He stated that funding for SRO's is very difficult to obtain. He indicated that there was a concern by the Federal Government but the regulations are very stiff. He indicated that the F.I.T. program should continue and will be marketed once again. S. Brady stated that to help very low income individuals is difficult because subsidies must be very deep in order to lower the rent enough for affordability at the 30 percent of income benchmark. Evanston has a low vacancy rate not a lot of dilapidated buildings and new projects more often than not, may lead to displacement. Brady commented that the one issue that the Housing Commission must face is the development of a displacement strategy. R. Warshaw commented that the new Zoning ordinance did change the AM unrelated individual rule to allow two adults and their children to - live together. The problem is that there is a University in Evanston and one must contend with the problem of possibly encouraging the over -occupancy by students. She stated that HUD was easing up on HOME guidelines and hopefully more money would be available.__ Fiske asked Ms. Moschandreas to explain the Family Transitional Apartment Program and the kind of help the "Center" gave to the 150 families seeking assistance. Moschandreas answered that the help is varied. In some instances, grants were made to help pay utility bills or back rent. Help is also given with security deposits. The "Center" works with families at developing a budget and at informing families of possible entitlement programs they might qualify for. Cleave brought up the issue of the dwindling membership of the Evanston Housing Commission. Cleave announced that it was with deep regret that he accepts the resignation of Housing Commission member, James Kepler. R. Warshaw commented that she would be unable to attend the next meeting of the Evanston Housing Corporation. Brady made a motion to name Scott Cleave as the new representative from the Housing Commission on the Evanston Housing Corporations' Board. Warshaw seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. - minutes - KPril 29, 1993 Page 6 Some additional individuals entered the meeting. Mr. David Futransky, representing the Niles Sheltered Workshop, made a short presentation concerning the need for Affordable Housing for Seniors and emotionally disturbed individuals. Paul Wallace introduced himself to the Housing Commission and stated that he represents the United Neighbors Coalition. He stated that one of his major concerns are the fire damaged abandoned homes. He stated that he is aware of the City sponsored paint program. He wanted to know if someone was monitoring the program. S. Janusz answered,that it is monitored. Mr. Wallace asked if it is public information to get a list of who received paint? S. Janusz answered that the paint program is an ongoing program and has been for 8-10 years. He stated that approximately 60 single family owner occupied structures are helped during the year. Mr. Wallace asked if the City follows up to make sure that the paint is being used. S. Janusz answered that the program is monitored. Mr. Wallace stated that he asks because he does not see any improvement in the housing stock. S. Janusz reminded him that this is a city-wide program. Warshaw stated that Neighbors At Work has a paint and fix-up/repair program targeted to income eligible families, many of whom are elderly. Mr. Wallace stated he was unaware of the program. Warshaw commented on the first time homebuyers program and stated that the Evanston Housing Corporation would be interested in making a presentation to any group which is interested. She invited Mr. Wallace to talk to staff about available programs. Bill Povalla made a quick comment thanking all those in attendance for coming and stated that anyone who is interested in becoming a member of the Housing Commission should contact the City Clerk's office for information. Povalla also thanked Aldermen Warshaw, Brady, and Fiske for their service on the Housing Commission and stated that staff wished them lots of luck in the future and that staff appreciated working with them. ADJOURNMENT Hearing no other comments, the meeting was adjourned at 9:16 p.m. The next meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission will be May 27, 1993, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bill Povalla, Housing planner S DRAFT, NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, MAY 27, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOK 2403 at 7:30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: S. Calder, S. Cleave, S. Payne and J. Ritter MEMBERS ABSENTt None STAFF PRESENT: J. Wolinski and B. Povalla OTHERS PRESENTt George Gauthier PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF QUORUM S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:34 p.m. He stated that a quorum was not present since five seats on the Housing Commission were not filled. 91M08 OF APRIL 29. 1993 S. Cleave asked if anyone had any changes or questions regarding the Housing Commission minutes of April 29, 1993. Hearing no questions or comments, he indicated that a formal vote would be made once a quorum could be assembled. S. Cleave talked extensively about trying to get people to join the Housing Commission. He stated that he was going to redouble his efforts at getting new members. He asked if there were any problems if the order of the agenda was suspended and old business was discussed first since there was someone in the audience to speak on this issue. Hearing no objections, the agenda was suspended. OLD BUSINESS HOME Fundina Undate - Evanston Housing Coalition George Gauthier indicated that the financing application with the Federal Home Loan Bank had been forwarded to Washington with a recommendation for approval. He estimated that a decision should be rendered sometime in the middle of June. Gauthier indicated that one property had been closed, and three other properties had offers pending. EHC was in negotiation on one additional property. Gauthier indicated that many of the properties were vacant properties on the City's Enard-up list. Cleave asked if lead based paint was a problem? 1 II � 111' n 1111' 11 M n o Ip . ,rl 111, 1 . , 11 II . I IoII i'M II"IIR 11 1i rvi 11 r I, 11111,11111III'^ T, I r i �- I n i I �- 111 q 11 iIP I:p!I a� - minutes - Kay 27, 1993 Page 2 Gauthier stated that up to this time, lead based paint was not a problem. All code violations would be removed. Cleave asked if anything had been heard about the Illinois Housing Development Authority's Trust Fund Application? Gauthier answered that there had been no news received. Cleave commented that the Federal Home Loan Bank application looked very positive since Washington rarely overturns a local recommendation of approval. Planning and O velovment Committee Minutes: ARril 13 & April 26, 1993 Cleave gave an overview of the John Buck proposal. Ritter thanked Cleave for working hard on getting concessions for the Mayor's Special Housing Fund. Court Cases Ritter asked what action would be taken on the Ewing Avenue address. She asked if a fine was in order. Wolinski stated that compliance was what the City was interested in. Naturally, there is a concern over the amount of time invested by City staff. Landlord Tenant Report - April 1993 The Housing Commission received without comment. Community Investment Cgxn. -- Undate The Housing Commission received without comment. "Apartheid American Style - its a Housing Thing" Ritter commented that the article was very interesting. New Section 8 Limits Povalla explained that the Section 8 limits had actually decreased. Povalla explained that there was confusion at HUU because of the switch from using an SMSA (Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area) to a PMSA (Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area). Povalla stated that staff was in the process of calling the HUD Regional office to find out if these numbers would stand. Ouarterlv Retorts - 4th Ouarter 1992. 1st Ouarter 1993 Povalla commented that under normal circumstances, the F.I.T. Quarterly Reports would be separate items needing an official vote since there is not a quorum. Povalla asked Commission members to look over the reports and indicate any problems. These reports will appear on a future agenda when a quorum would be present. BUSINESS Povalla indicated that both items A and B were linked. Povalla commented that there had been some problems receiving a OAS Cgr&ification for the Emergengv Shelter Grant Application for ttg Center For Public Ministry. Povalla indicated that all CHAS Certifications in fiscal year 1993 have to be sent to the Cook County Planning Department for approval. The County Board President is u 1 . � t 416 r1 Minutes - May 27, 1993 Page 3 required to sign the Certifications according to the procedures developed by the County. Povalla indicated that the process is incredibly slow and inflexible. Povalla then reviewed the 1994-199¢ HOME Consortium Memorandum of Understanding and Consortium Agreements and discussed the pro's and con's of staying in the Consortium or withdrawing. Members of the Housing Commission indicated that they were in agreement with staff's recommendation that Evanston should not renew its participation at this time for fiscal years 1994-1996. Ritter indicated her apprehension that housing related CDBG funds were tied to the consolidated CHAS. Payne indicated that she was concerned that the County would not guarantee matching funds in writing for fiscal years 1994-1996. Cleave indicated that he thought the documents submitted should have been the basis from which negotiations might begin. He was concerned about the revolving .loan fund to be used as matching funds and the lack of specificity on how it would operate. Cleave was concerned with the County's administrative capabilities underscored by the process for CHAS Certifications. Cleave also stated that he was concerned about possible delays in CDBG funds, especially since there was no specific amount of funding designated for Evanston. COMMENTS Cleave announced that there would be a meeting on June 8th concerning community housing needs by the CDBG Committee. He indicated that this was part of the CDBG funding process and invited other Housing Commission members to attend the meeting. b.DJOU NENT Hearing no other comments, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission will be June 24, 1993, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bill Povalla, Housing Planner DRAFT, NOT APPROVED ' MINUTES EVA249TON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, June 24, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 at 7:30 P.H. MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: DECLA ION OF QUORUM J. Ritter, S. Cleave, S. Payne and S. Calder None J. Wolinski and S. Janusz Penny Miller Scott Cleave The meeting was called to order at 7:40 p.m. A quorum was not present due to five vacancies on the Housing Commission. S. Cleave welcomed the member of the audience to the meeting. Penny Miller introduced herself as one of the new appointments to the Housing Commission. The Housing Commission welcomed her to the Commission and stated that they looked forward to working with her on the Commission. MINUTES OF MAY 27. 1993 Sue Calder requested that the Housing Commission minutes be copied double sided for future meetings. COMMUNICATIONS CHAR ceKtification Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Discussion concerning the location of the proposed Mt. Zion Baptist Church elderly housing project which will be located at the northeast corner of Dodge and Crain. ede al Home Loan Bank Bulletin Brief discussion concerning the Federal Home Loan Bank Bulletin and that there were no Evanston hanks in this review. NI II I diIlait111i dWl„ii II iVI II I VI d' VIItlIIIIAilIII1IIlIt DRAFT HOT APPROVED MINUTES - EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, JULY 22, 2993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 AT 7:30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: S. Cleave, K. Fund, M. Lane, P. Miller, C. Murphy, S. Payne, and A. Poole MEMBERS ASSENT: S. Calder OTHERS PRESENT: Dick Mergener, Jim Lundine, Tom Foreman Phil Roden, and George Gauthier STAFF PRESENT: J. Wolinski, S. Janusz, and B. Povalla PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECxL,M ION OF QUORQM Chairman Cleave began the meeting at 7:38 p.m. He made the suggestion that everyone should introduce themselves and give some background information about themselves. Each member introduced themselves and gave a brief background of their housing related activities. The Chairman declared there was a quorum present. MINUTES OF APRXL 29. MAY 27. AND JUNE 24. 1993 S. Payne noted that there was a problem with the Housing Commission minutes of April 29th, it seems that every other page had been copied. She asked that this set of minutes should be deferred until the August 26, 1993 meeting of the Housing Commission. S. Payne made a motion to approve the Housing Commission minutes of May 27th and June 24th, 1993. K. Fund seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. S. Cleave noted that there were a number of individuals present in the audience and asked if there were no objections to suspend the order of the agenda. Hearing no objections, the Housing Commission began discussion of new business. NEW BUSINESS Request For Proposal Vacant Lots - Habitat For Humanity S. Cleave gave a brief overview of the Request for Proposal and explained that Habitat for Humanity had appeared before the Housing commission previously on a different matter. C 0 DRAFT, NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, June 24, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 at 7:30 P.H. MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: DECLARATION OF QUORUM J. Ritter, S. Cleave, S. Payne and S. Calder None J. Wolinski and S. Janusz Penny Miller Scott Cleave The meeting was called to order at 7:40 p.m. A quorum was not present due to five vacancies on the Housing Commission. S. Cleave welcomed the member of the audience to the meeting. Penny Miller introduced herself as one of the new appointments to the Housing Commission. The Housing Commission welcomed her to the Commission and stated that they looked forward to working with her on the Commission. MINUTES OF MAY 27. 1993 Sue Calder requested that the Housing Commission minutes be copied double sided for future meetings. COMMi7NICATIONS CHAS Certification Mt. Zion Baptist Church Discussion concerning the location of the proposed Mt. Zion Baptist Church elderly housing project which will be located at the northeast corner of Dodge and Crain. Federal Home Loan Bank Bulletin Brief discussion concerning the Federal Home Loan Bank Bulletin and that there were no Evanston banks in this review. ry � u i W i W i�i� I�I �i �I�IS��Ii�VWil IVirylWi�llll�i�lll� - Minutes - June 24, 1993 Page 2 S. Cleave asked about proposed changes to the Historic Preservation Ordinance. J. Wolinski responded that a consultant had been hired to write a new ordinance. Discussion concerning as to whether a new ordinance would have any affect on the four vacant lots that were acquired by a No Cash Sid through the County. J. Wolinski stated that a new ordinance would not affect the vacant lots. A question was asked concerning the status of the historic property located at 1400 Wesley Ave. J. Wolinski said that the owner of the property was not planning to demolish it. S. Calder asked that the Housing Commission receive new income guidelines. J. Wolinski said it would be provided for the next meeting. S. Payne asked if there will be an orientation for the new Housing Commission members, and to explain the different City programs, funding sources, and commonly used terms. J. Wolinski said that an orientation was being planned for the new Housing Commission members. S. Cleave stated that with her term expiring, this was Joan Ritter's last Housing Commission meeting, and thanked her for her years of service to the Housing Commission and the City of Evanston. J. Ritter said that she was involved in housing issues in Evanston since the inception of the City's housing programs in 1974 and had enjoyed working with the members of the Housing Commission. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission will be July 22, 1993, in Room 2403 of the Evanston Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Stan Janusz, Assistant Housing Rehabilitation Director & Property Maintenance .. I , I III , u 1 1 W Y u ti DRAFT NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THO SDAYO JULY 22, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 AT 7:30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: S. Cleave., K. Fund, M. Lane, P. Miller, C. Murphy, S. Payne, and A. Poole MEMBERS ABSENT: S. Calder OTHERS PRESENT: Dick Mergener, Jim Lundine, Tom Foreman Phil Roden, and George Gauthier STAFF PRESENT: J. Wolinski, S. Janusz, and B. Povalla PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave RECLARATION OF QUORUM Chairman Cleave began the meeting at 7:38 p.m. He made the suggestion that everyone should introduce themselves and give some background information about themselves. Each member introduced themselves and gave a brief background of their housing related activities. The Chairman declared there was a quorum present. MINUTES OF APRIL 29. MAY 27. AND JUNE 24. 1993 S. Payne noted that there was a problem with the Housing Commission minutes of April 29th, it seems that every other page had been copied. She asked that this set of minutes should be deferred until the August 26, 1993 meeting of the Housing Commission. S. Payne made a motion to approve the Housing Commission minutes of May 27th and June 24th, 1993. K. Fund seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. S. Cleave noted that there were a number of individuals present in the audience and asked if there were no objections to suspend the order of the agenda. Hearing no objections, the Housing Commission began discussion of new business. NEW BUSINESS Request For Proposal vacant Lots - Habitat For Humanity S. Cleave gave a brief overview of the Request for Proposal and explained that Habitat for Humanity had appeared before the Housing Commission previously on a different matter. - Minutes - Evanston Housing commission July 22, 1993 Page 2 Dick Mergener introduced himself and gave a brief mission statement for the Uptown Habitat for Humanity. He then introduced the other individuals in the audience; Jim Lundine, Executive Director for Uptown Habitat for Humanity; and Tom Foreman, Architect and Planner. Jim Lundine gave a brief synopsis of how he became involved with Habitat for Humanity. He stated that the Uptown Habitat For Humanity is the largest Habitat group in the Chicago area. He stressed that Habitat is a volunteer driven organization, clearly a housing ministry. The involvement is a win for families as well as for the volunteers because people get to know one another as people. He stressed that the Uptown Habitat Branch has been very successful with the help of many Evanston residents. Mr. Lundine then introduced Mr. Phil Roden from Evanston Township High School. Mr. Lundine stated that the Uptown Branch is becoming more sophisticated in its development of housing. However, its goal is not to lose the volunteer connection. The Uptown Branch has widened its scope into four Chicago neighborhoods and is presently working on 37 homes which are under construction. Mr. Phil Roden of Evanston Township High School introduced himself and stated that he is a history and economics teacher. He stated he is a firm believer in experiential learning. He stated he is new to the Habitat organization. This year, 100 students at ETHS have volunteered to work on Habitat projects. K. Fund asked what specifically do the students do? She wanted to know if there was a specific training component? Mr. Roden answered that mostly students do the "get down and dirty" activities and that this is one of the few times they can do such things and make a positive contribution at the same time. He stated that students do demolition work and carpentry work. Mr. Mergener stated that Habitat has not overlooked the training component. He stated that the Uptown Habitat was one of the first organizations to utilize Earn -Fare program recipients. On January 15, Earn -Fare recipients started working with Habitat and by July, eight were working full time in the building trades. Mergener continued that Uptown Habitat was involved with the Careers for Youth Program at Senn, Orr, and Manley High Schools in Chicago, targeting students for employment. This summer, 30 students are employed. The program runs throughout the year. He indicated that Habitat wants to work very closely with ETHS. Mr. Mergener stressed that he is a resident of Evanston and is aware of the divisions within the community such as race and economics. He stressed that the Habitat project has the potential of bringing people together. K. Fund asked if the students who are interested, primarily minority? Mr. Roden answered no, it was a true mix. P. Miller asked if girls were involved? Roden answered yes, that over 50 percent of the participants were girls. Tom Foreman spoke about young people and used his children as an example. He stated that Habitat offers young people an opportunity to work together on something other than sports. 0 - Minutes - Evanaton Housing commission 'TUle 22, 1993 Pa g 3 Mr- Mergener stated he wanted to clarify something material which was provided. mathOmerial in the U.S.abitat is presently in the packet of Packet. This is Snot the third largest as t was conveyed Y the 15th largest a goal of Habitatis for the year 2000. in the C• Murphy stated that she would like to know Project. Mr. Mergener stated that Habitat at more about the community groups. He stated proposed entire g which the citythat Habitat would have to closely with takes a Package w lass on virtual] is Offering- He stated othat look at the neighborhood has to y every Project the Habitat committees be excited about the y do. He stated that the in the neighborhood. Project. Habitat will form fundraising committee even thoughThere will also be capital. Mergenerindicated tabbitat brings a finance and council would have to be formed. 9 much of a local chapter or its own the property tax implicationse on this tated that he Project a home utilizinis concerned about indicated that Habitat Habitat must swant restrictions project. He stated that owning be an He not frictions a burden. He S• Cleave commented that °n taxes. section explaining in the Request for Proposal, there was a that g that there would be covenants on the deed requiring low income families must live there. A. Poole q ring overall structure of . Mergener could Habitat, give a brief synopsis of the Mr Lundine answered that that does not sell that was also selected on a Properties to make non-sectarian basis. money and that Uptown Habitat is one of a non sectarian organization a profit. That families are Habitat raises all of its own S• Cleave asked how 800 groups across the nation. S-Cleave answered does Habitat envision this - Mergener about that in a small rural community working? Mr. ea $30,000. With a number He stated that earlier in nmuheYweekcost of _v accelerated asset re ovelarre financial a home institutions he had lunch �= recoverable mart „ Y Program, somthin to work on - - Federal gage uP front.r� 9 like a zero coupon bond x Federal omeMLoan Bank Habitat has been workin -y and IHDA (Illinois g with the into the equation, Mergener envisioned that Housing Home Loan nht HDA might Habitat would Development would ba u hive an additional 000-$5,000 and Put $30,000 -T.= Picked S3 000-$5 the Federal Partner could be P Y an adopt -a -home ' OOAn adoetba home s indicated that ETHS, a church, or a Partner, needed. Habitat will have Corporation, P a-h°me Habitat would then secure hand $45,00o of th Mergener - remainder. S, Payne asked the the $60,000 would this project if there was a co line of credit for the h{ was a j take. Mr. Mergener mmitment today, difficult g answered that pa Y, how long CO�OunitY/neighborhood must be answer, Yne s month He stated question period, the neighborhood ready. He stated that within at the architectural work wougdb be completed. six months.Committees would be a three formed Mergener stated He stated that he and the done two at a time that theproperties envisions =_} staggered with a three monthtimwould Probably be Y i l l J I . I, n it 1 1 - minutes - Evanston Housing commission July 22, 1993 Page 4 period between groups. S. Cleave asked if there was a specific start date that Habitat needed. Mr. Mergener answered no specific date, however, they would not start in the middle of winter. M. Lane asked if contacts had been made with the community? Mr. Mergener answered that the first piece of the puzzle is assembling the land or property before going to the community. He stated that five or six churches in Evanston had expressed an interest. C. Murphy asked about the architectural design. Mr. Mergener answered that there were four different housing plans in the proposal but were not necessarily one for each site. C. Murphy stated that there were other people involved, the neighbors who have equity in their properties. She voiced concern that the project might stigmatize low income people. Mr. Mergener stated that Habitat has worked on a project in Chicago where a wrought iron fence and landscaping was part of the project. The original cost was $85,000. Two years later an appraisal showed $126,000. The mortgages on these properties were $43,000. He stated that he personally, is involved with Habitat in order to help people get equity and see an increase in their investment. He stated that Habitat meets or exceeds code in every community. S. Cleave reminded Mr. Mergener that the deed covenants will cap some of the appreciation. Mr. Mergener commented that Habitat would want to see some slow down. Cleave commented that restrictions will run for ten years. Cleave commented that the designs were fantastic. He wanted to know what some of the hurdles might be. Mr. Foreman answered that he could come up with four: 1) ambition of the people on the committees that are formed; 2) up -keep costs of the properties including energy costs; 3) possible problems with some of the city of Evanston ordinances, and; 4) dealing with volunteerism in construction. Mr. Foreman stated that these factors are ones of doing business when the product is not a product driven type of development. V. Young voiced concern that the units were vertical in nature, possibly providing problems for handicapped individuals. How does Habitat envision getting by those hurdles? Mr. Foreman answered that it is not just an issue for the physically challenged. Habitat is finding that in many instances, meeting the five percent or ten percent of units for handicapped individuals will never be achieved because of the numbers of handicapped individuals in the tenant pool. Mr. Foreman stressed adaptable rather than accessible. He indicated that the floor plans do not necessarily conform to the traditional, family room, kitchen, dining room. This is the area where Evanston might need to be more flexible. Wolinski stressed that the city enforces the Illinois Accessibility Code and thus, handicapped accessibility issues are not directly written in the building code. A. Poole asked how does Habitat seek out local contractors? Mr. Mergener answered that is why Habitat has a local committee. The contractors and subcontractors have to be willing to work with students. A. Poole asked if the construction committee would be primarily Chicago residents? Mr. Mergener answered no, however, some 11id ii IH �II IV!!I�!IIII'I�I, ��II���' Ili - minutes - Evanston Housing commission July 220 1993 Pago 5 members form Chicago will try to provide their expertise. P. Miller asked if the City owns all of the properties? Janusz answered that the City owns two and two others are in the pipeline. C. Murphy asked if potential profits might be able to be recycled back into a rehabilitation program. Mr. Mergener answered that Habitat looks at this project as a partnership with the City. Mr. Foreman commented on the abatement of taxes in Massachusetts and California, where the windfall is used to pay the taxes at the time of a sale. Cleave commented that there were a number of issues which need to be discussed. Cleave asked who the contact person would be. Mr. Mergener answered he would be the contact person. Mr. Mergener commented that in order to accelerate the process, the recovery of taxes issue should be discussed on the front end. Cleave commented that staff will need to do research and investigate some legal issues. Cleave asked if any possible dumping problems on the sites were settled. Wolinski answered that it was not a problem. V. Young asked how long would the construction cycle take. Mr. Mergener answered that he envisioned the construction taking less than a year. He stated that the properties would be staggered. He stressed that churches and volunteer intensive projects tend to be longer. Janusz asked if most of the materials were donated. Mergener answered that it depended an each individual project. Cleave asked for three or four volunteers to work as a subcommittee who will work with staff. S. Payne, C. Murphy, P. Miller and S. Cleave volunteered. S. Payne wanted to know how many other developers answered the Request for Proposal. Povalla answered that there were no other responses received by the July 2nd deadline. Povalla explained who was notified and how many letters went out. Wolinski stated he was surprised that some local developers had not come forward with a proposal but no organization could work on such a project and receive a reasonable rate of return, especially serving the income levels that this project addresses. Payne made a motion to form a subcommittee of the Evanston Housing Commission for this project. The subcommittee will be composed of Scott Cleave, Sue Payne, Colleen Murphy, and Penny Miller. V. Young seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. HOME Funding undate - Evanston Housina Coalition George Gauthier introduced himself and gave some background information on this particular project. He explained that the Evanston Housing Coalition (EHC) had become a designated Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO). Gauthier reverted back to the Wesley Greenbay project and stated that this project would consist of five existing single family homes. These homes would be rehabilitated and then rented to low income larger families. Cleave commented that EHC has done an outstanding job finding other sources of funding such as the Illinois Affordable Trust Fund and the Federal Home Loan Bank. Gauthier commented that this project came about because of the need for affordable rental housing for larger families. - Minutes - Evanston Housing commission July 22, 1993 Page 6 Gauthier went over the original cost of the project and stated that $340,000 of the $600,000 project cost would come from HOME funds. of the $340,0000, 50 percent is in the form of a loan and 50 percent in the form of a grant. Additionally, $125,000 was procured through a private lender and $35,000 is a loan from the Federal Home Loan Bank. He indicated that four properties have been procured and one is in the process. All of the properties are vacant, three of which are on the Board -up List. C. Murphy asked what has been done to consider the neighbors? Gauthier stressed these were boarded up homes and the neighbors had been quite supportive of the project. He stated that all the properties would be in compliance with the Zoning Ordinance. In three instances, the properties are the only abandoned buildings on their blacks. A. Poole asked if EHC was not involved, does it mean that these properties would remain vacant? Gauthier answered yes, since many of these are long time boarded up properties. They are located at 1933 Dodge, 1721 Brown, 1709 Dodge, and 1739 Hartrey. C. Murphy asked if all of the properties are located in the fifth ward? Wolinski and Povalla, answered yes. Wolinski stated that abandoned properties were of great concern to the City Council and to Alderman Kent of the fifth ward. Gauthier stated that he had been in contact with the community and looking for people who are presently underhoused. P. Miller asked if this program was restricted to Evanston residents. Povalla answered no, that there can not be any restrictions as to residency pursuant to Federal Law, however, there can be an encouragement for Evanston residents to apply. Discussion ensued between C. Murphy and Gauthier pursuant to the pluses and minuses of low income rental properties and their concentration in the fifth ward. C. Murphy voiced her concern that these homes would be designated as being "Low-income". She asked Gauthier if he was going to be following any architectural guidelines? Gauthier stated there would not be any additions to the existing structures, just rehabilitation. He indicated that an environmental clearance would be needed from the State of Illinois and none of the buildings in question were on an historical preservation list. V. Young stated she sympathized with C. Murphy's concern of concentrating rental housing in one area. C. Murphy stated that there is a certain line at which a neighborhood changes when too many rentals are in an area. M. Lane stated that these homes would not have a neon sign on them saying low income. K. Fund asked how many units does EHC presently manage. Gauthier answered 24. K. Fund asked when the old project was being discussed and rehabilitated, were these all Evanston tenants. Gauthier answered, no, that about 33 percent were Evanston residents. The reason was that Section 8 does not allow discrimination on the basis of where one has lived. P. Miller commented that she did not think there was a City policy concerning the placement of subsidized units. She asked if a map might be drawn, showing where subsidized units were located. Povalla answered that all that could be mapped would be the - minutes - Evanston Housing commission July 22, 1993 Page 7 scattered sight housing. Povalla continued that a map of Section 8 Certificates and Vouchers would almost be impossible to compile. P. Miller stated that C. Murphy had a valid point since the City does not have a policy concerning the placement of subsidized units. V. Young stated that the "American Dream" has been altered in as much that the cost of single family homes and the accompanying land has risen. P. Miller asked if the affordability clause in the regulations state 15 years, why is EHC making the affordability clause for 20 years? Gauthier answered that the longer the term of affordability, the more points a particular project receives. He stated that the former Housing Commission was openly thinking of a 30 year period. He indicated that under the HOME Program, a deed restriction will be attached to the property so that the new owners would be bound by the affordability clause. He indicated that he was coming before the Evanston Housing Commission for a total of $51,540 in Mayor's Special Housing Funds. Cleave asked if EHC had heard a definite answer on IHDA Housing Trust Fund Money? Gauthier answered no. Gauthier asked if the Housing Commission could issue a letter of commitment for the $51,540. Cleave asked if Gauthier had prepared a revised budget. Gauthier passed out a revised budget. Povalla asked Gauthier exactly what he needed in order for this project to go forward. Gauthier answered that he will need a letter of commitment. Cleave asked if the City Council had given its approval on the $180,000 figure? Povalla answered no. Payne made a motion for a letter of commitment in the amount of $51,540 of the Mayor's Special Housing Fund to be drafted. V. Young seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. Wolinski reminded Gauthier that the letter of commitment has to go to the City Council. $.x.T. Ouarterly Reports - Fourth Quarter 1992: First Quarter 1993 S. Cleave gave a brief synopsis of the F.I.T. Program. Povalla explained the role of a sponsor. P. Miller made a motion to send the F.I.T. Quarterly Reports for the Fourth Quarter of 1992 and the First Quarter of 1993 to the City Council. M. Lane seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. Cook Countv 1993 HOME Consortium Povalla very quickly went over the Cook County HOME Program Description and HOME Program Financial Policy. Povalla indicated that the funding cycle for the distribution of 1993 Cook County Consortium HOME funds would be November 1st. Povalla asked the Housing Commission members to bring their documents back to the August meeting so that they may think about possible HOME projects. Povalla also quickly reviewed the HOME Interim Rule changes and pointed out that the rules pertaining to SRO's had been changed. Cleave asked if he could have a list of all of the SRO's located in Evanston. ,. Al I , I a I i a II . II lil iiultl - Minutes - Evanston Housing Commission July 22, 1993 Page 8 CHAR Certification - Seotion all LkRpliaation/Threshalds Povalla mentioned that a representative from thresholds was anticipated to attend the meeting, however, no one from that organiza- tion was present. Povalla explained that Cook County was the agency which is responsible for issuing the CHAS Certification. Povalla indicated that he is unaware if a CHAS Certification was given to the organization. Povalla stated he would check with Cook County. Povalla advised the Housing Commission that the CHAS Certification Process would change in October, and that the Commission should consider on what basis a CHAS Certification might be rejected and what information should be given. A. Poole asked if Povalla could make a flow chart of the CHAS Certification process. S. Cleave asked the Housing Commission members to bring all of the communications to the next meeting, when they will be discussed. i#DJOVIM- ENT S. Cleave asked for a motion to adjourn. Payne adjourn, C. Murphy seconded the motion. All were meeting adjourned at 10:17 p.m. The next meeting Housing Commission will be August 26, 1993. Respectfully submitted, Bill Povalla, Housing Planner Date made a motion to in favor, and the of the Evanston DAA?T NOT APPROVED =MES EVANSTOM HOU81CNG COXXtSSION TOURSDAYi AUGUST 26r 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOX 2403 AT 7:30 P.X. HERS PRESENT: S. Cleave, S. Calder, K. Fund, P. Miller, C. Murphy, and V. Young HEKBERB ABSENT: M. Lane, S. Payne, and A. Poole OTHIM PRESENT: G. Gauthier, Matthew Rody, Rev. Julius Belser, STAFF PRESENT: J. Wolinski, S. Janusz, and B. Povalla PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF OUORUK S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:38 p.m. MINUTES OF APRIL 29. 1993 S. Calder made a motion to approve the Evanston Housing Commission minutes of April 29, 1993. P. Miller seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. KINUTES OF JULY 22. 1993 V. Young commented that she was in attendance and this was not reflected in the members present section. Povalla stated that he was sorry that it was inadvertently omitted. S. Calder made a motion to approve the Evanston Housing Commission minutes of July 22, 1993, with the change. P. Miller seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. S. Cleave asked if there were any objections if the order of the agenda was switched. Hearing none, the Housing Commission discussed New Business, Item E. Presentation by Reba Place Be: Develonme_n_t of the AAbisco Proae -V Matthew Rody introduced himself to the Commission and Rev. Julius Belmar greeted the Commission as vell. Mr. Rody stated that he is the Vice -President of $olaten Management which is based in Chicago. He stated that he was an Evanston resident and has been a neighborhood resident for 20 plus yoars. He also stated he was a member of Reba d 1 i IV 1114A 4 Evanston Housing commission August 26, 1993 Pag• 3 construction activities and manages buildings for the length of time that tax credits are in place. The not -for -profit organization would be responsible for tenant selection and monitoring. He stated that Reba Place had a strong property management background in the neighborhood. It is useful that Holsten will be the management company, in order to distinguish the site from Reba's other properties. Rody mentioned that he has worked with the Illinois Housing Development Authority and realizes that IHDA will look closely at the roles and relationships of community based organizations with a potential developer. He stated that Holsten and Reba are looking closely at housing needs for special needs populations. Rev. Belser stated that this project will be in the middle of Reba Place's neighborhood and that Reba Place has a stake in the community. He stated that he has an interest with serving the special needs population. He stated that it was important that there will be six - eight clusters of apartments, with interaction between generations. S. Cleave stated that he appreciated the information and hoped to hear about the progress. P. Miller asked who pays the property taxes on these types of projects? Cleave asked Wolinski to help him, in a general sense not - for -profits are removed from the tax rolls. If a property is removed, and a variance is needed, sometimes a developer pays for services. Wolinski stated that in most instances a developer will pay for services. P. Miller asked if there is a substantial difference between taxes and payment in lieu of. Wolinski answered the payment in lieu of is ges.erally lower. K. Fund stated that whatever the amount it will be more than what the city receives from Northwestern., M. Rody commented that Holsten will be paying the normal residential rate in taxes which is more than what is being paid now. Memo andum of Understandi.na - City of Evanston and the Evanston Housi1na Coalition S. Cleave asked G. Gauthier to give the Housing Commission an update of what is going on with the HOME funded project. G. Gauthier stated that the properties acquired for the Evanston Housing Coalition will be taxed. EHC will, however, go to the Cook County Assessor to reduce the taxes utilizing the Class 9 incentive for low income housing. This allows for an assessment to be made at 16% rather than at 33%. The catch is the property must be in a qualified census tract which these properties will be. Gauthier continued by stating that the IHDA approved the HOME project. In the process of writing the agreement, the $170,000 in grants and $170,000 in loans at Z% was changed to a grant. The developer fee was removed. This will reduce the overall debt service. The developer fee will be earned as part of the project. The Evanston Housing Corporation was requested to make an equity deposit of $9,000. Gauthier stated that all of the pieces of the financing were now in place. He also stated as an aside that, the State of Illinois was having difficulty in spending the remaining HOME funds. Only four million dollars had been earmarked leaving 18 million dollars available. The unused funds will be returned to HUD. Evanston Housing commission AUqust 26, 1993 a Page 4 P. Miller asked on Page 3, Item 12 - Part A, the affordability period is written for twenty-five years why? G. Gauthier stated that the IHDA rules were for 20 years. Cleave stated that the 25 year period was in the original draft memorandum. P. Miller asked why does the City want the affordability period to be so long. S. Cleave stated that with the amount of subsidy involved, it is more efficient not to draw up new agreements on a frequent basis. He stated that a 10 year period earns additional points for developers. It was the sense of the former Housing Commission that a longer term of affordability would be best for the City. V. Young stated that a longer term is one less thing for the City to worry about from an administrative viewpoint. P. Miller asked how is this beneficial for a not -for -profit? Cleave answered that the major factor is that the problems of affordability will not be going away. G. Gauthier stated that the Federal HOME loan funds had a twenty year affordability clause. He stated that the whole purpose was to create affordable housing. V. Young stated that the City is spending $50,000 now to create affordable housing. If a 15 year period is incorporated, the City may have to spend an additional $10,000. We are getting more affordable housing for our money. P. Miller stated that her concern was that a neighborhood would be locked into a time frame with low-income housing. A discussion ensued concerning the definition of what was a low-income family. C. Murphy indicated that she was uneasy about not being able to limit the tenants to Evanston residents only. P. Miller stated she had no problems helping the elderly, the disabled and the handicapped, but the Housing Commission is spending the taxpayers money and she felt the City should be able to pick and choose. P. Miller stated that she is not opposed to this project, but is not convinced that the right people are being served. S. Cleave made minor changes to a number of sections, clarifying the roles of the City of Evanston and EHC. Stan asked when do the options on the homes expire. Gauthier answered October 31st. S. Calder made a motion to approve the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Evanston and the Evanston Housing Corporation with the change to 20 year affordability and the minor changes suggested by Scott Cleave. C. Murphy seconded the motion, all were in favor, and the motion carried. K LY VIACqi _ 4 Plannina and Devel-qRment Comm ttee &lutes: July 26, 1993 The Evanston Housing Commission :.-eceived without comment. Planning and. Devejgpment Committee Janutes: June R. and June 29. 1993 The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. u I,� i JIj ii i. I II ,Ii 166 1;6,6 Evanston Sousing commission August 26, 1993 Pogo S Housing and Community Development Act Committee Minutes: June 8. 1993 The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. Landlord Tenant _Reno rt - July 1293 The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. w Landlord Tenant Report - June. 1993 The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. Court Cases P. Miller asked about the number of court cases and what exactly are the violations. K. Fund commented that it seems that many of the cases are continued and continued. S. Calder stated that the number of cases continued has been declining substantially. J. Wolinski commented that if 70 violations are cited, as long as an owner can show continual improvement, the case will be continued. The purpose is compliance. Condominium Conversions The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. State's Comment on HOME Proposed Rule The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. Section 8 Rent Levels The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. gS Certification: Thresholds -Sect t2n 811 Program Follow-up The Evanston Housing Commission received without comment. OLD BUSINESS Cook County 1993 Home Consortium Discussion ensued concerning the proposed HOME funded project contemplated by the YMCA. Povalla stressed that the deadline for HOME proposals for Cook County would be November 11, 1993. He indicated that the Housing Commission should think of possible projects. CHAS Certification - Memorandum S. Cleave commented that this was submitted pursuant to a request made by A. Poole at the last Housing commission meeting. Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance - Interest P!1yMents on Securitv Denos is S. Cleave stated this item would be placed on hold since no one was in the audience regarding this matter. CHAS Certification - Memorandum No one was present in the audience. The Chairman noted his displeasure that no one was in attendance and reminded the Commission members that CHAS Certifications would be determined by the Evanston Housing Commission sometime in February, 1994. Evanston Housing Commission August 26, 1993 Page 6 Draft CHAS Document - Community Profile Section Povalla went over the CHAS document and explained the CHAS process. Regort From the Subcommittee on the Vacant Lots_- Habitat For Humanity Proposal Janusz stated that the City had the deeds for the four properties. S. Cleave stated that the subcommittee met and went over what should be placed into the development agreement. S. Cleave stated that there was a concern that the properties are maintained and kept up and this was a comfort -level issue. Additionally, he stated that this should not be a loot giveaway. S. Cleave stated that a deed restriction will be in place for a ten year period. He also stressed that the program will be for Evanston residents. He also wanted a non -assignable contract. CO1rIIMENTB Povalla mentioned that this was his last Housing Commission meeting since he will be taking a job with the City of Chicago starting September 20, 1993. He stated that it was a pleasure to work with the Housing Commission and that hopefully he would meet up with the members in the future. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 10:07 p.m. The next meeting of the Evanston Housing Commission will be September 23, 1993. Respectfully submitted, dam 15;0 #0004J& Bill Povalla, Housing Pla ner Date DRAFT NOT APPROVED MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403 AT 7:30 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: S. Cleave, S. Calder, K. Fund, M. Lane, P. Miller, C. Murphy, S. Payne and A. Poole V. Young MEMBERS ABSENT: None OTHERS PRESENT: Ron Falzone, McGaw Y.M.C.A. and Bob Highberger, Executive Board Member of McGaw Y.M.C.A. STAFF PRESENT: J. Wolinski, S. Janusz, and J. Logan PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave DECLARATION OF OUORUM S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:35 p.m. MINUTES OF AUGUST 26, 1993 P. Miller stated that she had made comment regarding the landlord tenant report which was omitted on page 5. She asked where do violations come from, what do we do about them, and who does what. She also stated she did not ask about the court cases, K. Fund did. K. Fund stated she didn't think she had talked about it at all. S. Cleave had a clarification on page 4 regarding the affordable housing discussion of limiting to Evanston residents only. He stated that this is the Evanston Housing Coalition Affordable Housing Project and this primarily centers on federal rules in order to obtain funding. S. Cleave also had an addition to the minutes which he wanted included under the Comment Section relating to Bill Povalla leaving. He stated that although they are sorry to see Bill go, he would like to see this as an opportunity to restructure the position primarily by taking the burden of answering all the landlord tenant related questions off of the Housing Planner and get assistance in using what is now a technical position to deliver the long lasting services to the community, which is exactly what the position is designed to do. Evanston HOU&ing Commission September 23, 1993 Page 3 The McGaw YMCA operates a 172 room men's SRO. The number of rooms represents approximately 57% of SROs available in the City of Evanston. The occupancy rate average is 91%. Room rate start at $76.50 a week, less than $11 per night. A recent study showed the following characteristics in our residence program: - 43% African Americans and 55% Caucasians - 13% make less than $5,000 a year, 35% make less than $10,000 a year, 57% make less than $15,000 a year, 91% make less than $25,000 a year - 21% under General Assistance and Disability Assistance - 25% referred by other social service agencies such as ACORN, Evanston shelter, Threshold, Trilogy, Youth Job Center, and Christian Vineyard -- The YMCA residence program has a working relationship with 25 other service agencies in the City of Evanston All residents at the McGaw YMCA are YMCA members, and are entitled to use all the facilities at the YMCA. The YMCA provides more than lodging. Residents are assisted with appropriate referrals such as employment, counseling, medical and substance or alcohol abuse. The YMCA does not require a security deposit. This makes a big difference for those who are cash tight to be able to get a room. This past year, the YMCA provided over $31,000 in fee assistance in its residence program, this is in addition to over $18,000 in rent "skips" which the YMCA never received. Average fee assistance is 33% of rent. I believe the YMCA provides an essential service to Evanston by providing housing solutions to the young and old who are of marginal income. Earlier this year, the YMCA spent $260,000 to replace the electrical boxes and the rewiring of each room. Currently nearly $40, 000 of work is underway to update the six bathrooms. The most urgent needs include the replacement of the plumbing system, the replacement of the windows, the replacement of the roof, the installation of a mini-refrigerator/microwave in each room, and the replacement of an elevator. The current YMCA building was built in 1929. Not much infrastructure improvement was done in the past 64 years. As a result, we have to close down a number of rooms regularly to provide repair service to these rooms. With the recent reduction of SRO stocks in Evanston, it is critical that the above mentioned project be completed in the near future to avoid further reduction of available rooms. I urge your support of this request. 1- 11 . .II . i . . 1 Y , . . iI - 1. Evanoton Sousing commission September 23, 1993 Page 4 S. Cleave thanked Ron for the presentation and asked if he had copies of the request. S. Cleave asked Ron to explain where they are going with application for HOME funds. Ron Falzone explained that they will be asking Cook County for funding because they have monies available from their 1992 Budget. He stated that the County was given five million dollars, only spent $400,000 and they have to get rid of the remainder. He stated that the McGaW YMCA is asking for about $900,000 and that they are also looking at several other options including the Corporation of Affordable Housing. He stated that if they did not get the money from Cook County, which they will know soon with the deadline being November 1st, the McGaw would be looking to the State for funding, with the deadline being December 31, 1993. S. Cleave asked if there were any questions. A. Poole asked how much would the YMCA get from the Corporation of Affordable Housing. Ron Falzone answered a reasonable amount, but it would not be a large percentage. S. Calder asked what is the definition of an SRO. She had assumed its what the YMCA has, but some people would think of it as an efficiency. R. Falzone stated he would look up the definition. He also stated that the main reason why the YMCA applied for funds was to improve the microwave oven/micro-ref ridge because of the HUD definition. He stated that Hud wanted either an oven or food separation facility in the units with the other provided down the hall. He stated he wanted to bring both in the units. S. Cleave stated that he understands that the YMCA is not looking for money, but a letter of endorsement from the Housing Commission. R. Falzone stated that the proposal required an endorsement. S. Cleave stated that the Commission is in support of the service to the community, in support of the project and hopes it gets approved. S. Cleave asked if someone could write the letter of endorsement. J. Wolinski stated that he would and the Commission could approve it. P. Miller made motion to move that the Commission support the YMCA SRO upgrade project, S. Calder seconded the motion. S. Payne stated she had to abstain from voting because her husband represents the YMCA. COMMUNICATIONS P & D MINUTES OF AUGUST 9. 1993 S. Calder asked what type of information did Alderman Newman want regarding the F.I.T. Program. Wolinski stated that when Alderman Newman was Chairman of the Housing Commission, he had related to him at that time that he thought F.I.T. participants couldn't be on any other type of subsidy, but that is not the case. K. Fund asked if the Commission could get a copy of the report on the Wesley project. S. Cleave stated that the Wesley Project is not the report before the Commission and also stated that the Wesley Project happened a couple of years ago. K. Fund mentioned that the Commission had talked about it in relation to counseling, support services, etc. Wolinski stated he could provide a copy of the report in the Housing Commission packets. Evanston Housing Commission September 23, 1993 Page 4 S. Cleave thanked Ron for the presentation and asked if he had copies of the request. S. Cleave asked Ron to explain where they are going with application for HOME funds. Ron Falzone explained that they will be asking Cook County for funding because they have monies available from their 1992 Budget. He stated that the County was given five million dollars, only spent $400,000 and they have to get rid of the remainder. He stated that the McGaW YMCA is asking for about $900,000 and that they are also looking at several other options including the Corporation of Affordable Housing. He stated that if they did not get the money from Cook County, which they will know soon with the deadline being November 1st, the McGaw would be looking to the State for funding, with the deadline being December 31, 1993. S. Cleave asked if there were any questions. A. Poole asked how much would the YMCA get from the Corporation of Affordable Housing. Ron Falzone answered a reasonable amount, but it would not be a large percentage. S. Calder asked what is the definition of an SRO. She had assumed its what the YMCA has, but some people would think of it as an efficiency. R. Falzone stated he would look up the definition. He also stated that the main reason why the YMCA applied for funds was to improve the microwave oven/micro-ref ridge because of the HUD definition. He stated that Hud wanted either an oven or food separation facility in the units with the other provided down the hall. He stated he wanted to bring both in the units. S. Cleave stated that he understands that the YMCA is not looking for money, but a letter of endorsement from the Housing Commission. R. Falzone stated that the proposal required an endorsement. S. Cleave stated that the Commission is in support of the service to the community, in support of the project and hopes it gets approved. S. Cleave asked if someone could write the letter of endorsement. J. Wolinski stated that he would and the Commission could approve it. P. Miller made motion that the Commission support the YMCA SRO upgrade project, S. Calder seconded the motion, the vote was 7-1. S. Payne stated she had to abstain from voting because her husband represents the YMCA. COMMIINICATIONS P & D MINUTES OF AUGUST 9. 1993 S. Calder asked what type of information did Alderman Newman want regarding the F.I.T. Program. Wolinski stated that when Alderman Newman was Chairman of the Housing Commission, he had related to him at that time that he thought F.I.T. participants couldn't be on any other type of subsidy, but that is not the case. K. Fund asked if the commission could get a copy of the report on the Wesley project. S. Cleave stated that the Wesley Project is not the report before the Commission and also stated that the Wesley Project happened a couple of years ago. K. Fund mentioned that the Commission had talked about it in relation to counseling, support services, etc. Wolinski stated he could provide a copy of the report in the Housing Commission packets. Evanston Housing commission September 23, 1993 Page 6 S. Calder asked if there will still be a Housing Planner. Wolinski answered yes. S. Cleave asked if the salary for the Housing Planner was included. Wolinski answered yes. P. Miller asked if the position has been advertised. Wolinski stated that he had talked with the City Manager and stated that he wanted to relay the message to the Commission that there would be no drop off in service both for housing and the community. Wolinski stated that he feels the job requirements are more professional than in the past and stated that he will be meeting with the City Manager regarding the position. He also stated that the City Manager is looking at possibly shifting someone in the organization that has the skills and can do the job. He stated that the City Manager was considering moving the position to another department. S. Cleave stated that it would be an admirable goal, but if we didn't get someone that understands the HOME Rules, that understands how to write a CHAS, that understands the McKinney Act funding, that understands all the programs and knows how to write the goals and work with the non-profit agencies, then we are seeing a drop off in service. Wolinski stated that Eric asked if the Chairman would like to meet with him. S. Cleave answered yes. Wolinski explained Application 115, Housing Rehabilitation Administration, stating that this department is a two person department. The salaries include the Assistant Director, a secretary, and a Cost Contract Specialist. S. Janusz explained the Housing Rehabilitation Department's responsibilities. S. Cleave asked how much of a back log is there of the single family and multi -family rehab loan applications. S. Janusz stated that he wouldn't call it a back log, but at the present time there are 10--14 cases for verification in progress. S. Cleave asked how long does it take to approve or deny the applications. S. Janusz stated 60 to 90 days and explained the loan application process. Wolinski explained Application #16, Housing Code Compliance Program, stating that this element deals with the housing inspections in the CD target area. Wolinski explained that the salary request is fcr one CD inspector and 30% for the other three inspectors. S. Cleave stated that it seems kind of strange that one person is doing all the three flats and above and asked if they can handle it. Wolinski stated yes. S. Janusz explained the inspection process and how the inspector inspects the CD multi -family buildings. Wolinski stated that what we have to be careful with CD proposals in that the salaries we are requesting money for are actually doing CD work and stated that this is checked out very carefully by HUD. Wolinski stated that the other two proposals are for Minor Repairs/ Painting Assistance and Home Security Lock Program. S. Cleave stated that the Commission would be in support of the proposals especially applications 14, 15, and 16. Evanston Housing commission September 23, 1993 Page 7 P. Miller made comment that she did not understand why only multi- family units are inspected on the cycle and not single-family. Wolinski, stated that it was a Council decision to not inspect the interior of single family owner occupied units. P. Miller asked what is the inspection schedule. Wolinski stated five years and discussion ensued regarding the inspection of target and non -target areas. S. Payne asked how much money is allocated in the proposal to cover the Housing Planner's position. J. Wolinski stated that the position is allocated at Bill's current salary ($45,000). Discussion ensued regarding the salary of the housing planner. V. Young asked if there was an organizational chart which shows the state of the department. Wolinski stated he would forward the chart to the Commission. Wolinski then discussed the organization of the Building and Property Services Department. K. fund asked if we could save money by not inspecting every multi- family unit and just inspecting on the tenant's complaint. P. Miller stated it was just a waste of money. Discussion ensued regarding the inspection process and the upkeep of property. S. Cleave reiterated that the members attend both the October 19th and the October 26th meetings, in particular, the October 26, 1993 meeting where they will talk about the staffing proposals. He also stated that he would volunteer unless someone else wants to write a memo stating that the Commission supports the projects and why we support them. A. Poole made motion that the Committee endorse and write a letter in support of Application 114. S. Payne seconded, all were in favor and the motion was approved. A. Poole made motion that the Committee write a statement in support of Application 115, Lane seconded the motion and all were in favor. A. Poole made motion to endorse Application 116, Lane seconded the motion and the vote was in favor, 7-1, with P. Miller opposing. Wolinski discussed the status of the 1830 Ridge Building and discussion ensued regarding the Senior Elderly Housing Project. S. Cleave made mention of the Neighbors At Work projects and stated that the numbers are larger than last year. S. Janusz stated that last year was $150,000. S. Cleave asked the status of the projects and whether they will get a favorable consideration. Wolinski stated he would be surprised if they were unfavorably considered. S. Cleave stated that it was his experience that once a program is up and running, it is very difficult to dislodge them. J. Wolinski stated that he thinks the Committee is aware that these requests are approximately 30% of the housing budget. , . 1 Y , y II , VI II u , . .. Y , , . ill,, Evanston Housing commission September 23, 1993 Page e S. Cleave explained for the new committee members, the process of application for CD funds. He stated that this is a typical cycle and that people will apply in July or August and meet with the CD Committee to talk about what their needs are. The formal proposal is presented in September or October and acted on in November which will then be approved by City Council. M. Lane asked what was the Howard Street Enhancement Program under Public Works. Wolinski stated he would forward information on that program. Vacant Lots - Sack Taxes S. Cleave addressed the issue of the vacant lot back taxes. S. Janusz discussed the vacant lots and recoupment of back taxes. P. Miller asked how does the recoup work. S. Cleave explained that the properties were foreclosed because they had delinquent real estate taxes and what happens is, Cook County gets the properties and gives them to the City with a stipulation that the City can't sell them for more than they it cost to get them from the County. He stated that it completely ignores the financial realty which is that we are out of pocket. Discussion ensued. A. Poole asked what about revenue sharing arrangement if we recoup the money, agree to split 50-50 basis. S. Cleave asked if we had to report to the County. S. Janusz stated that an annual report on the status of the lot for five years. He stated that report does not consist of inventory dollars. P. Miller asked if this was a legal opinion that we could not get the taxes. S. Janusz stated it was a decision made by the County. V. Young made comment that we should seek clarification about the out of pocket cost, if that is possible. S. Janusz stated yes we could. S. Cleave stated that he wanted to get a better sense of direction because we want to put some type of covenant into the deed so we can get some money back because the City has a stake in this. P. Miller stated that we should see something in writing. Discussion ensued regarding policy of vacant lot back taxes. OLD BUSINESS Vacant Lots - Habitat For Humanitv S. Cleave stated that the Habitat people are interested in the doing a project, but still have to work on clarifying, for their own Board, the issue related to income. He stated that they are having a hard time figuring out how they can address the income strata which is 50% of income groups. He also stated that it has been communicated to them that the City is not going to give any money. He asked J. Wolinski to run down the points that were discussed. Wolinski stated that some of the major concerns from the Mayor's office is that the units be sold to Evanston residents. Wolinski further explained the zoning implications on this project. Evanston•gousing Commission September 23, 1993 Page 9 P. Miller asked if they could do Corporation does. S. Cleave properties. the Class 9 like the Evanston Housing stated no because these are private M. Lane asked what kind of ordinance does Evanston have that covers affordable housing stating that we need a certain amount of affordable housing in Evanston. J. Wolinski stated there was no minimum. Discussion ensued regarding affordable housing issues. UPDATE CHAR REPORT S. Cleave asked when the Committee had to approve the CHAS report. Wolinski stated by the end of the year and that it has to go to Council. S. Cleave mentioned that Council had to approve it by the end of the year. S. Cleave stated that we could approve it at the October meeting and have it pass in November. Wolinski stated that we had to have a public hearing. P. Miller asked if we could have the public hearing before the Committee approves it. S. Cleave stated that the Committee had to approve it before the public hearing because the comments from the public hearing have to be incorporated into the report. M. Lane asked how much did the population go up since 1990. S. Januzs stated we wouldn't have those figures yet, S. Cleave stated that he is not ready to approve the document as of yet. A. Poole mentioned we could set up a sub -committee to discuss the CHAS. S. Cleave stated that would be fine. Wolinski stated that the One Year Update also has to be approved and in by the end of October and stated that if we scheduled a special meeting by the second week of October, we could possibly get it on the Council Agenda by the end of October so we should consider looking at the CHAS report and the Annual Update. S. Cleave mentioned that the Commission would be completing an annual update for the 1993--97 CHAS. S. Cleave scheduled a special meeting for October 14, 1993 to discuss the CHAS and the Annual Update. If someone cannot, attend please send comments. S. Cleave stated that the CHAS is a marketing document which pushes what the Commission is doing. S. Cleave discussed the facts of the document and discussion ensued regarding the CHAS report as a whole. Evanston Housing Commission September 23, 1993 Page 10 AWOURNMENT S. Cleaved moved to adjourn the meeting, P. Miller seconded. The meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m. The next regular scheduled meeting for the Evanston Housing Commission will be October 28, 1993 with a special meeting held on October 14th, 1993. Respectfully Submitted, 02,'6"� 06 Jud Logan taff A) Fs Date Date EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2404 AT 7:00 F.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: DECLARATION OF QUORUM S. Calder, K. Fund, M. Lane, P. Miller, C. Murphy, S. Payne and V. Young S. Cleave and A. Poole J. Wolinski, S. Janusz, and J. Logan S. Payne, Acting Chairman S. Payne began the meeting at 7:10 p.m. DISCUSSION OF CHAS REPORT S. Payne started by thanking J. Wolinski for the copy of rules and regulations report for the CHAS and asked about the source. J. Wolinski stated they were from the CHAS guideline book. S. Mayne made note that there are many typographical and grammatical errors and that the CHAS should be edited carefully. S. Payne also mentioned that everyone should give their edited pages to Tim, Stan, or Judy to incorporate the changes. Wolinski pointed out to the Commission that the public notice for public comment is in the Evanston Review and will be running for the next couple of issues, and that public notice is required prior to the public hearing. He also stated that there will be another notice for next week's Evanston Review regarding the public hearing session. He mentioned that he would also contact some of the groups who have appeared at the hearing in the past and make certain that they are aware of the meeting. S. Payne asked which version of the CHAS will they have to comment on. Wolinski stated they will have the latest version that everyone has. V. Young referred to the chart on page 59 regarding the age of adults and stated that technically Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 14, 1993 Page 2 CHAS REPORT cont'd children are 17 years and younger, and that we should consider, changing some of the paragraph headings to include 18-21 year olds. She stated that from a federal perspective, if one is 18, one is an adult, at 17 - one is considered a child. Wolinski stated that we could make the changes. S. Payne asked if we knew where Hill was getting the definition of adolescent, 17-21. J. Wolinski - stated he would have to check the CHAS guidelines. P. Miller indicated that this information was also on page 54. S, Payne stated that S. Cleave wanted her to mention that this is a highly technical document and there are parts that have to be in the report because of the formula, so the changes that are made should not affect the formula of the document. K. Fund entered the room. M Lane pointed out the typo in the introduction paragraph should be changed from heeds to needs. S. Payne stated that the Community Profile was missing from the her copy. J. Wolinski stated that has not changed. immunity Description S. Payne stated that this paragraph did not make much sense and should be re -written and will be giving her suggestions. M. Lane stated that it was strange that it didn't mention Winnetka. Miller stated that we are not connected to Winnetka, but we are connected to Wilmette. C. Murphy stated that she would like to see it specifically mention that we are part of the North Shore and that the realtors have not been including Evanston and also stated that it is very detrimental to our housing value. K. Fund asked would we add the North Shore. Wolinski stated yes. S Payne stated that she liked the point of Evanston being the foothold of the North Shore. K. Fund wondered if we counted the Northwestern students in our own total population on page 6. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 14, 1993 Page 3 Wolinski stated that they are in the census count as Evanston residents. K. Fund asked what is the special category where it spells out students. Wolinski stated he would check on that information. S. Payne stated that it is located in (A) of the chart. Janusz stated that the census did not break out the students from the residents. S. Payne asked if the non -household population referred to people who are in nursing homes. Wolinski stated yes. K. Fund stated that she found it interesting that the chart indicates several males with dependent children, and wondered where we got the information. Wolinski stated the information was from the census. S. Payne indicated that the developmentally disabled population was estimated. K. Fund found the visual perspective of the census tract interesting. S. Payne asked why the average household size is continuing to drop. Wolinski stated he could only generalize and indicated that he feels we are seeing fewer and new families in the -community. Discussion ensued regarding the issue. Marketing Inventory K Fund liked the idea that there were 35 vacant lots in different areas that the Housing Commission might be able to utilize. Discussion ensued regarding vacant lots and current construction. (Take out 117 Ridge on page 34 - ?) Sue Calder entered the room. Boarded Build inas/Rental Housing Costs K. Fund wondered if the designated properties have purchase options on them by not -for -profit organizations, and asked what those organizations are I Wolinski stated that these were George Gauthier's projects for the Evanston Housing Coalition. K. Fund was interested in the code inspection of substandard units (page 22) and asked what kind Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 14, 1993 Page 4 e -t of oversight is available. Specifically, she asked how we will track apartments that have more tenants than legally allowed. Wolinski stated it would be through our systematic area inspections. Discussion ensued regarding overcrowding and problem areas. owner Occupied Unitg M. Lane asked if a figure was available on multiple buildings which are not owner occupied. Wolinski stated we do not have that information. M. Lane stated that the buildings with the most problems are the buildings which are not owner occupied. C. Murphy indicated that the owner occupied buildings are in areas which are not located in the CDBG target area, which leads one to believe that CDBG are areas where owners do not occupy the buildings. Discussion ensued. Condo Conversions S. Calder stated that we should try to track more condo conversions because we are seeing an upsurge of conversions. Discussion ensued. S. Payne stated that part of our mission is to make sure we maintain some affordable housing in the sense that it detracts from very small rental units available. Wolinski asked if she would like to have a quarterly report. S. Payne stated yes. C. Murphy stated that we should not only get quarterly reports on condo, conversions, but that we should also be able to balance the report against new apartment construction. She also stated we are not taking into account �.pndo rental and we should have data on that. C. Murphy asked if the condo conversions would be affordable units once they became exclusive condos, and stated that they may be very expensive. Janus stated that he doubts if any of the recent condo conversions are in the target area. S. Payne stated that when you take an apartment out of the rental area, you still are eliminating a rental unit and moving all of the rental units up. S. Payne stated that maybe in tracking the condo conversions we should look to see what the average rental was in that building, and that we should also check the average sale prices. S. Payne asked how ACORMs gap is going to be filled in the next six to eight months. Wolinski stated that some of the other agencies are looking to pick up the slot and stated that the building is on the market. S. Payne asked if they are fighting over keeping the shelter open. P. Miller stated they are fighting over funding the service. S. Calder asked why we list services (page 33) that are not located in Evanston. Wolinski stated that they serve Evanston residents. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 114, 1993 Page 5 hUDS ASSESSMENT K. Fund asked if there was a building just purchased on Custer Street for providing some kind of congregate housing. S. Calder stated it was purchased by the Housing Options for the Mentally Ill. Discussion ensued regarding housing options for the mentally ill. V. Young made note regarding the sentence structure on page 48 under New Construction stating this needs to be re -written. K. Fund asked how tenants are protected in cases of absentee landlords. Wolinski stated that the landlord/tenant ordinance is the primary source of protection by the City and stated that it gives equal protection for both the landlords against bad tenants and tenants protection against bad landlords. K Fund asked whether the tenant could be assisted by the City even if the tenant could not find out who the landlord is. P. iViilier stated that a tenant does not need to know the landlord, but does need to know the management company. Wolinski stated that the City can go after the management company, but stated the department tries to go after the ownership. M. Lane questioned the issue of the landlord/tenant ordinance being attached to the lease. She asked if the ordinance is enforced in any way, and further asked whether the issue could be pushed to assure that the ordinance is attached to the lease, because tenants would comply if they knew they had recourse. Wolinski stated that he met with the EPOA group and they talked exclusively about the landlord/ tenant ordinance and their concerns. Discussion ensued regarding compliance. V. Young asked if the City had a brochure providing a general overview to of information regarding citizens' rights. Wolinski stated no. S. Payne mentioned that TOE had pamphlets with general information for the tenants. Wolinski stated that it was not city sponsored. V. Young asked if a landlord/tenant ordinance was on display at the City for public viewing and suggested this as an option in the future. First -Time Homebuver V. Young mentioned that FHA loans are available to first-time homebuyers with a 3 1/2% down payment, but the home has to pass FHA inspections. She also stated that not all of Evanston houses would pass because of the age of Evanston homes and mentioned that this is another option that the Commission can suggest for first-time homebuyers. J. Wolinski mentioned that this is the aldermanic reference; that Steve Engleman expressed concern for obtaining first-time homebuyer assistance for people with less than stellar credit. V. Young stated that she had an article regarding home buying in Des Moines, Iowa describing a program with no down payment, she said she would send a copy to the Commission. S. Janusz m-ntioned that NBD is starting a new program that will allow for either a low down payment or no Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 14, 1993 Page b First -rime Homebuver cont'd down payment. The program will start in the next week. S. Payne mentioned that the homeless section is one of the newly required sections of the CHAS. C. Murphy pointed out on page 51, Homelessness tends to increase in August and September because heads of households have an interest in enrolling children in the Evanston school system, and that this is a state law. She also referred to the statistics on page 57; pointing out that of 473 individuals served in the shelters, 408 were not from Evanston. P. MiIler observed the substance abuse percentage of 60 percent. Discussion ensued regarding the Homelessness and availability of programs. P. Miller stated that she would like to see support for home repair maintenance program for the elderly. Wolinski stated that the Commission on Aging is sponsoring a handy man program for the elderly. P. Miller asked about the funding Evanston provides for victims of domestic violence. S. Calder stated that funding for Evanston is derived from both state and federal sources. Because these same entities fund other suburbs as well, the Evanston shelter cannot turn anyone away, and must also serve non -Evanston residents. K. Fund asked if a teen center could be developed out of the CDBG funds. J. Wolinski stated possibly, but it would depend on the type and size of the building because CD only gets a certain number of dollars. Discussion ensued. Five Year Strategy S. Payne asked about the significance of the "S"s and "P"s included in the Priority Chart on page 81. S. Payne stated that she assumed it was based from the prior CHAS. P. Miller stated that she would rather see family as # I priority and homelessness as a #2 priority. Wolinski stated that this should be correlated with the 13 priorities. S. Payne stated this document is designed to include as many # I priorities as possible in case we get funding for the program that we implement. Wolinski stated that there is no guarantee that we will get funding and stated that this would also be a CDBG request. d J Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 14, 1993 Page 7 r UTTZROTIRP, S. Calder questioned the five year strategy on page 105 stating that the Evanston Housing Commission will investigate the possibility of developing an interagency task force to study the lead - based paint problem and asked why is this part of the strategy. S. Payne stated it is one of the new requirements. New CHAS regulations require that communities address lead -based paint hazards. In accordance with this new requirement, a Priority # 14 will be added to the CHAS. "Develop a plan to evaluate and reduce the lead based paint hazards within the community and work with the Health Department. The priority will be discussed in detail; to include the following lead -based paint factors: 1) Abatement; 2) Abatement of hazards; 3) Interim controls; and 4) Estimated extent of lead hazards in Evanston. C. Murphy mentioned that this will become a big need and stated that we are investigating the possibility for applying for funding for a program. S. Calder stated that this should be made a priority. The CHAS will address lead -based paint issues as Priority 414. V. Young mentioned the discussion about Holsten Realty; that the developer had the first option on the property and that Holsten and Reba Place had come before the Commission. She asked how this action fits into the issue. Wolinski stated that 601 Linden, the initial purchaser, is proceeding with his zoning and stated it will go condo. V. Young asked if this should be included in this reference to the Reba Place. Wolinski stated that we should leave this in until it if finalized. V. Young asked if there was a typo on the Age Construction Year where it shows pre-1940 twice. Wolinski stated we will get correct information. S. Payne mentioned that the section on overcoming gaps has to be changed with the word "apartment" set on the line under not -far -profit. P. Miller mentioned that the public housing section should have the bold type face to set it off. One Year Plan S. Payne stated that the One Year Plan has a lot of repetition. C. Murphy mentioned that we need to add Priority # 14 to the introduction. S. Calder asked how we advertise the CHAS. Wolinski stated that an ad is placed in the Evanston Review and that past a M Minutes Evanston Housing Commission October 14, 1993 Page 8 One Y U Plon cont'd participants of the program are also contacted. S. Payne stated that this session was for discussion of the CHAS and that the document must - be approved by City Council. ADJOURNMENT M. Lane made motion to adjourn the meeting, S. Calder seconded. The meeting adjourned at 9.20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, I'Af Ir J�► Log Stall /2. /o - ?j Date ME�TUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403, 7:30 PM DRAFT NOT APPROVED MEhdBERS PRESENT: S. Cleave, S. Calder, K. Fund, M. Lane, P. Miller, S. Payne, A Poole, V. Young. MEMBERS ABSENT: C. Murphy OTHERS PRESENT: T= Stavish, Executive Director, Niles Township Sheltered Workshop; and Dave Futransky, Niles Township Sheltered Workshop. STAFF PRESENT: Eric Anderson, City Manager, J. Wolinski, S. Janusz, K. Watson PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Scott Cleave S. Cleave began the meeting at 7:3 S PM. MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 23. 1993 S. Cleave stated that there were a fair amount of typos and grammatical errors. P. Miller pointed out that the spelling of Bob Heiberger's name was corrected, but was nevertheless misspelled in the September and October minutes. She asked that his name be corrected to "Heiberger". S. Cleave made motion to approve the minutes with these changes, P. Miller seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. �S OF OCTOBER 14. 1993 P. Miller stated that there were no page numbers, and observed that the minutes did not include the addition of a Priority 914, as this was discussed extensively during the October 14 meeting. She asked that the minutes be amended to reflect the addition of Priority # 14 to the CHAS. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 2 P. Mller also requested changing a typo from "TOW" to "T.O.E." as it appears under the "Needs Assessment" category on page 28. She also requested that the typo "past" be changed to "pass", as it appears under the First Time Homebuyer section. V. Young asked that the wording on the following page be reworded and amended, deleting the word "annoyed" so that the sentence would not connote any anger on her part. S. Cleave made motion to approve the minutes with these changes, P. Miller seconded the motion, all were in favor and the motion carried. u1IZIli i • a " too ; : • • P. lVrller asked for clarification of the 4th paragraph on page 4; to indicate that Mr. Joshi represents Miles. She then asked that "who" be changed to "to whom". S. Cleave asked if there were any other changes. J. WoUnsld stated that the minutes would be corrected and resubmitted for approval. S. Cleave asked if there were any further grammatical observations. M. Lane requested that future printing of the minutes be two-sided. S. Cleave moved on to New Business items in order to accommodate a presentation by City Manager, Eric Anderson. S. Cleave introduced Mr. Anderson. .PRESENTATION BY rITY MANAGER ERIC ANDERSON.- STATUS OF THE HOUSING PLANNER POSITION Mr. Anderson introduced himself and presented a discussion of the Housing Planner position. E. Anderson described the process used to analyze the position; discussed the recommendations set forth by the Council and the budget and asked for Evanston Housing Commission's reaction and input. E. Anderson stated that every vacant position is examined by the budget team in great detail; no position is filled until the budget team approves that it should be filled rather than eliminated or left vacant. Tim (J. Wolinski) brought the position to E. Anderson and the budget committee, with the recommendation that it be retained. There was agreement that the position v°= should be retained. Mr. Anderson stated that there will be changes made within the position; some of the changes ' Y. 41 , V I I I 1:1 1L i Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 3 PLANNER ' • M • originated from the Commission. The position was discussed among members of the Budget Team comprised of the City Department Heads: the Police Chief, Fire Chief, Director of Planning & Zoning, Finance Di-ector, Tun Wolinski and E. Anderson - the senior management team. Two specific changes were recommended: 1) Shifting the tenant/landlord calls to the Human Relations Department; and 2) Transferring The Families in Transition Program ( F.I.T.) program to Jay Terry's Department, Health and Human Services. Under the new reorganization plan, The Human Relations Department will address all landlord/tenant calls, not just those requiring mediation, and work which will require attention in Jim's Department, Building and Property Services, will be handled accordingly, but the major portion work, which required about 25% of the Housing Planner's time, has been eliminated from the Housing Planner's responsibilities. E. Anderson emphasized that the program will be handled just as thoroughly and completely, but in a different place in the organization. In further reorganization, Jay Terry, Director of Health and Human Services, volunteered to take up the F.I.T. program, Jun's staff will assist in the coordination of the program, but the primary responsibility would be shifted to Health and Human Services. The remainder of the position would be directed toward both Tim WoHnski's office and the Planning & Zoning Department; and subsequently, the work would be more data based and theoretical. The position would then be broken into two large areas: one associated with the planning function of housing, the other associated with implementation and advocacy of housing. The first idea was to take the Housing PIanner and put that position into Planning & Zoning. E. Anderson mentioned there was some discomfort with that idea, that there was concern about planning overtaking advocacy and implementation issues. Anderson then recommended eliminating one full-time planning position, and dividing it into two, part-time planning positions filled by two individuals. This new arrangement would place one half-time position in Planning and Zoning, while transferring the other half-time position to Jim Wolinski's office. Both the individuals would staff the EHC Commission. E. Anderson stated that this was a proposal, a possibility, an idea which he would like to execute. He stated that this was a viable option; that both positions were equally valuable, and that he could find people with the qualifications to fill both positions. E. Anderson then asked for EHC's recommendation about splitting the position; one half geared toward planning, the other half geared toward advocacy and implementation. There has to be coordination between the two individuals and the departments. E. Anderson stated there will not be any cost savings; and that more work will get done. Discussion ensued. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 4 PLANNER'• • S. Cleave asked if the position involved one person in two half-time positions, or two persons in two half-time positions. E. Anderson responded that it was the latter. V. Young asked whether the people were in the current system. E. Anderson stated that he would advertise, and look for people outside the organization. S. Cleave asked whether it was realistic to get the expected level of expertise while offering only a half-time position. E. Anderson responded that he thought it was possible, and if not, that he would restructure the position. V. Young asked about the profile of the potential candidate - is s/he a professional in graduate school? someone returning to the work force? a retiree looking for a second career? E. Anderson stated the person may be any of those, that there were many situations that could be accommodated. V. Young also asked if the person would be a consultant looking for work to fill his or her free time, Is this really feasible? E. Anderson replied that it may or may not work; he mentioned that the director of planning and zoning is out on maternity leave and that she was coming back to work full-time, and that someone in her position, someone who has a child, but who would not want to quit work, would be an ideal candidate. S. Payne stated the position was not a natural division; that it was planning, and seemed to make sense that one person would have that job, otherwise it would be difficult to keep people. S. Cleave stated that the sum of the parts would be less than the whole. Is it possible to attract good people? E. Anderson stated that half-time arrangement will not negatively impose on the volume of work, that it was more a matter of time pressures and demands. S. Payne asked if this was about cost savings and not having to pay benefits. E. Anderson replied no; that it may result in a duplication of benefits; but that the person would have to want to work only pan time. A. Poole asked about the time line. E. Anderson stated the easiest way for the arrangement to fail is by not finding the people to fill the positions; it may take two months. In the alternative, it would take a year to gauge the results and conduct an evaluation. K. Fund asked whether the Housing Comrission will participate in the interviewing candidates. E. Anderson stated that would not be the case. S. Cleave asked if there would be the same level of service and support in the interim. E. Anderson assured him this would be so. S. Calder asked about the division in responsibility for the landlord/tenant queries and the F.I.T. program. E. Anderson stated that Human Relations would take the landlord/tenant calls, and that some may be referred back to Jim. S. Cleave also asked about this. E. Anderson stated that the landlord/tenant queries constituted a small amount, and not a huge amount of work. S. Cleave stated that Bill Povalla exercised enforcement activity; and asked whether HHS will now have responsibility for updating the program. Mr. Anderson stated that there will be changes in the Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page S organization of staff work; not responsibilities. S. Cleave asked again whether HHS will assume updates. S. Payne stated that it would result in fragmentation, and that it would be harder to do the job. S. Cleave stated that two part time positions would be detrimental; that it may be good in theory, but not good in practice. P. Miller stated that there are six people still learning their jobs, and was concerned about the position moving out of Housing, she asked if the money comes from the Mayor's Housing Fund, and whether the Housing Commission will still make recommendations. S. Payne asked about the transition component with Emergency Assistance. Mr. Anderson replied that that the housing function was not unified or monolithic, it was an issue of planning, advocacy and implementation. S. Cleave stated that the position springs from affordable housing, and that that should be the orientation. E. Anderson replied that he was experimenting with different ways of doing things, that diffusion and departmentalization lead to fertility in ideas. He asked for EHC recommendation, What is more effective? S. Payne wanted to know the rationale for splitting the position, that it didn't make sense and that we would lose time. V. Young stated that it was an issue of ownership; for example, the F.I.T. program has an Evanston emphasis, and there should be a sensitivity to siphoning off the program to another area. S. Cleave stated that BiU's leaving has a detrimental effect, that the goal should be stabilization. E. Anderson affirmed he was working toward that goal, and that he was trying to find the right people for the jobs in a trial period. J. Woiinski stated that the job maybe more planning & zoning, that it was in planning & zoning initially, but that the CHAS and promotions are still functions of housing; and may get lost in planning. That housing needs back up with staff. S. Cleave stated that the job encompassed a broad perspective of economic development issues and that there should be a broad reach. I Mr. Anderson stated he appreciated EHC's comments, caution and input, and that he would keep the Housing Commission informed as he goes forward. E. Anderson left the room PRESENTATION BY JIM STAVISH AND DAVD) FUTRANSKY- NILES TOW l� iMT SHELTERED WORKSHOP (NTSW) HONE PROPOSAL S. Cleave introduced David Futransky. David Futransky introduced himself and Jim Stavish. D. Futransky briefly described NTSW's mission, goals and objectives; that his organization was in .. I . mi dI Ii6lik Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 6 the business of providing adult day care and programs for the mentally ill, and that now they wanted to get into issues of affordable housing. He stated he was looking to convert a building which would render affordable housing for seniors. NTSW is converting a building at 1830 Ridge Avenue from non -apartment to apartment use; rehabilitating the building to 3045 units of studio and one bedroom housing. The primary source of funding is through the HOME program as administered by Cook County Housing Authority. To that end, he asked for a letter From EHC to Cook County stating that his project was consistent with the certifications and priorities in the City of Evanston's CHAS. D. Futransky also stated he may be looking for funds through the Mayor's Special Housing Funds, a Community Development Block Grant initially approved for $50,000 and that NTSW had raised money on their own as seed money. J. Stavish, executive director of NTSW stated that his organization has been serving Evanston residents for 20 years. He stated their job placement, skills training and disability programs such as "GO" and "First Step" also served Evanston residents and demonstrated his organization's commitment to the community. S. Cleave asked Mr. Stavish to elaborate on need assessment. J. Stavish stated that the project will serve those in the low/moderate income groups who need housing. D. Futransky stated that there was a significant waiting list, and that the need demonstrated by other communities indicated that 30% of the elderly population was paying over 60% of their income on housing in Evanston. D. Futransky stated there wouldn't be a problem in finding residents for his project. S. Cleave asked for income levels. D. Futransky stated that NTSW follows the standards and rental levels set by the HOME program and Cook County Housing. M. Lane asked about the location, expressing concern that it was in a hazardous location with the traffic on Ridge and Green Bay. D. Futransky said it was a good location and a good building, that there was talk of transforming it into luxury loft condos which was not a popular idea in the neighborhood. V. Young asked whether the NTSW project would serve elderly and emotionally disturbed constituencies. S. Calder asked whether NTSW had asked for input form neighbors. D. Futransky said that it is premature to talk to neighbors, and that the property could be put to better use than luxury condos. S. Calder raised the issue of traffic volume; that the site was particularly busy and dangerous. D. Futransky stated that they had conducted a traffic study and recent developments will alleviate the traffic patterns to a small extent, that they were trying to move traffic lights, etc, but that cost constraints were a factor. NTSW's establishment of a � � ,Y n r VIA ��. CWIWOIMI�Ii�iIl����ENIN�� Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 7 CHDO, along with HOME and HUD funds will help ease the financial burden. S. Calder asked about the source of funding. D. Futransky replied that he applied for grant and loan money from HUD; perhaps a 3800,0004900,000 loan. S. Calder asked about additional sources of funding. D. Futransky described financing alternatives: 1) Illinois Housing Affordable Trust Fund; 2) Low Income Tax Credits; and 3) CRA commercial lending. A. Poole asked about management and oversight responsibilities. D. Futransky said they will hire a professional management organization. The CHDO board will have direct oversight. V. Young asked about special use areas, if the site accommodate the need. D. Futransky stated that the physical structure would be based on programming, that adult day care is a growing business and that he expected to expand programming. V. Young raised the issue of the elderly's needs competing with those of other constituencies. D. Futransky stated that his project will respond to needs as they arise, that they have the expertise to respond to that market. S. Cleave asked whether the project was feasible relative to location, management and rent levels. D. Fuu-ansky stated that $100.00 or $1200.00 a year subsidy can mean a lot to their clients, that . there is a need in Evanston that NTSW can meet with 3540 units of housing for low income people. He also staed that NTSW addresses and meets some of the CHAS goals, and can offer better housing for Evanston in a good location. A Poole asked about the ratio of low/moderate income persons to low/income persons potentially served by the project. D. Futransky stated that they are targeting veryllow and low income groups. S. Calder asked if Futransky had considered the community conference board in that area. M. Lane expressed concern about Ridge Avenue, D. Futransky emphasized that security was very important, that they were working within zoning codes to modify the structure to ensure the highest level of comfort and safety, P. Miller, M. Lane and V. Young expressed concern about traffic volume and urban -like density of the area. P. Miller asked whether a management company in Evanston would attract more Evanston residents. D. Futransky stated he would place tenants on a first -come, first -serve, basis inclusive as possible of Evanston residents, and that they were making a concerted effort to hire local contractors and service providers, and make the project as "Evanston" as possible. J. Stavish stated he had been at NTSW for 19 years, that NTSW had served the Evanston community since 1975, and that he could demonstrate an unarguable commitment to the elderly and to Evanston. A, Poole suggested that NTSW could create ties with the community by establishing a 7, relationship with the Child Care Center on Asbury linking up seniors with children. D. Futransky agreed with the merits of the idea, that NTSW had a similar program, Great Opportunities; which SO Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 8 matches children and grandparents in positive intergenerational relationships. D. Futransky added that he would set up open meetings with neighbors to share ideas. D. Futransky stated that the deadline for HOME applications is November 30, 1993, and asked for a letter of support from EHC to meet that deadline. S. Cleave stated that the Niles application would then be competing with other projects for HOME funds, and asked about specific allocation of 1992 and 1993 dollars. D. Futransky explained that funds for the HOME application were derived from CHDO set -aside monies, that I5% of the HOME funds have to be spent on CHDOs before the other 85% can be spent on project developers, $6 M in 1993 monies. V. Young asked for clarification on competition for Cook County money. S. Cleave stated that projects were considered on a Chicago Metro basis. S. Payne said she thought that NTSW project meets CHAS priorities. S. Cleave disagreed, stating he was not opposed to the project, but that at the same time he was not comfortable with the vagueness on rent and income guidelines. V. Young asked for detail on the percentage of units which were reserved for different income levels. S. Cleave asked for a commitment that rent and income would not exceed certain guidelines. D. Futransky said they were looking at 50% of the income guidelines as established by Cook County; that a distinction was not made specifically for the elderly. K. Watson said that the City, under HUD advisement, was using Evanston median family incomes as opposed to Cook County median family incomes when calculating the guidelines. Evanston incomes are higher than Cook County's, so the NTSW is well within the affordable income range. D. Futransky was looking at numbers less than Evanston numbers when calculating affordability, setting the standard at a maximum household income of 50% for one person is $16,650. S. Cleave asked if all the residents will make less than $16,650. V. Young asked for the breakout of low income schedules. D. Futransky stated the next step up for low income is $19,860, moderate is $26,650 on a County -wide basis. D. Futransky replied that he would like to do his project at 100% low income, but he could not guarantee this, but that the project will fall within the HUD guidelines. V. Young stated low income housing should be top priority and that she wanted to be assured that at least 30% percent of the project will target one of the top priority groups. S. Cleave stated that $400.00 rent exceeds the 28% guideline at $16,650. D. Futransky stated that he was within the rental levels established by Cook County - average fair market rent for a studio = $480.00; 50% rentals are $416.00; and 65% rent limit is $521.000. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 9 PRE,SMATION BY JIM STAVISH AND DAVID Y: NILES TOWNSM SHUJ[ERED WORKSHOP INTSM HOME PROPOSAL cont'd Discussion ensued. M. Lane stated that some of the seniors served do not have that higher income. A. Poole asked for the definition of "affordable" and how the project meets needs. Is S300.004350.00 affordable for a low income person? D. Futransky said he can't predict the incomes of elderly in Evanston, that affordable is different for everyone; but that he was within the guidelines; median income in Evanston is $53,000; $26,000 is less than 50%. S. Stavish stated NTSW was targeting low income people who really need the housing, S. Cleave asked for clarification on the numbers. M. Lane asked about criteria and resources. D. Futransky said he was using the best data available, that he wanted to make the project accessible to everybody. S. Stavish explained NTSW s Shelterd Workshop program, that they were experienced in helping people and that their goal is to create housing for low income persons. J. Stavish asked for EHC recommendation. A. Poole applauded those efforts. S. Payne moved to extend a vote on the NTSW project; M. Lane seconded, all were in favor except for S. Cleave who abstained. W. Futransky and Mr. Stavish left the room. INTRODUCTION OF KELLEY WATSON. INTERIM HOUSING PLANNER J. Wolinski introduced Kelley C. Watson who gave a brief synopsis of her educational and professional background. J. Wolinski stated that he would like to keep Kelley Watson on as long he can, until Eric makes a final decision. S. Cleave asked members of EHC to fax in their CHAS corrections to be incorporated by the City's CHAS deadline of December 3 L. DISCUSSION OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT MINUTES OCTOBER 19. 1993 S. Cleave commented that the Niles Township Shelterd Workshop (NTSW) project costs were projected at $2.5 M -S4 M in the absence of a pro forma. V. Young, S. Calder and other EHC members agreed that it would be useful to have this document. S. Cleave cautioned granting CHAS certification to NTSW; that EHC was sensitive to putting projects into competition with other projects when one meets CHAS guidelines and the other does not; and that EHC does not have to approve every application that comes before it_ M Lane was concerned that NTSW may not have talked to neighbors. They agreed more information would be helpful. S Cleave asked about the status of ENAW and the its level of funding and how it would effect programming. J. Wolinski stated that he has yet to hear an update. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 10 OISCTJSSION OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPME, 1LACT MINUTES; OCTOBER 26. 1993 cont'd S. Payne asked about the status of excess housing funds which HUD requested that the City spend. She asked if there were any recommendations. J. Wolinski stated that the recommendation was to channel the money into the Revolving Loan Fund. S. Cleave said there might be room for a landlord/tenant conference, but that the bigger need was for communications effort. J. Wolinski stated that he hoped the funds would be retained for housing, but that there had not yet been a final determination. S. Cleave noticed that funding for housing had decreased from 33% of the CD budget to 25% to 20% of the CD budget. S. Cleave was concerned that there is a decreasing emphasis on housing. He recommended subcommittee action on public awareness, education and marketing activities. J. Wolinski stated that K. Watson had expertise in marketing and could be a good resource. DISCUSSION OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT MINUTES; OCTOBER 12. 1993 S. Calder asked about Ald. Kent's statement concerning EHC's taking abandoned buildings and rehabilitating them for shelter use. J. Wolinski stated that Ald. Kent was referring to the Evanston Housing Coalition project. DISCUSSION OF PLANNINQ AND DEVELOP ING MILiUTES_ OCTOBER 18, 93 S. Payne asked for clarification of AM. Newman's comment regarding the adequacy of building inspectors to meet the City's needs. J. Wolinski replied that the number of housing inspectors is a major issue with Planning & Development. He staed that the number of inspectors is directly related to the level of service. He mentioned licensing program, charging a licensing fee for inspecting common areas and exteriors of multi -family buildings. S. Cleave mentioned that Ald. Heydemann suggested stepping up measures on substandard properties, and not penalizing residents and landlords through charging a fee. S. Young suggested streamlining and developing measurable criteria for identifying problems. A. Poole left the room. J. Wolinski stated that problems in the southeast corner of Evanston precipitated meeting with Evanston Neighborhood Conference to address the issue of inspections and problems of overcrowding. As a result, a pilot inspection program was developed for the target area bordered by Howard, CTA, Skokie Swift and Ridge Avenue. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 11 DISCUSSION OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT MEETING MINT.M: OCTOBER 18. 1993 cont'd Inspection teams work with police, housing, fire and zoning inspectors to identify code violations. The project is expensive but effective in addressing the over -occupancy problem. M. Lane stated that the main problem in Evanston concerned larger buildings, and that the cycle was realistic. S. Calder agreed with V. Young about triggers; and mentioned that a building with 50+ units was a size trigger. S. Janusz stated that inspections were now conducted within two time frames, once every three years, and once every five years, unless there are specific calls about code violations. S. Payne asked whether inspectors had specific authority. M. Lane, P. MiIler and S. Young discussed code violations, overcrowding and Iandlord/tenant mediation. S. Cleave stated it might be beneficial to incorporate V. Young's trigger ideas into a program. M. Lane and P. Miller discussed ramifications of condo conversions in Evanston, that owners would take better care of the property than renters, but that sometimes people couldn't afford to buy. S. Cleave discussed the Habitat For Humanity project. The project entails a one 2-unit building on one large lot, with 3 single units on the other lot. The 2 unit would be 1,000 sq. ft., the single units1,400 sq. ft. Costs are estimated at $120,0004130,000 excluding the cost of land, resulting in $80,000 sale price or $800.00/month. DISCUSSION OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEETINQ; NOVEMBER 14. 1993, S. Cleave mentioned that the Planning & Development Commission was also concerned about having a housing planner. He stated that Ald. Newman, Ald. Kent and Ald. Heydemann were concerned about housing advocacy and mediation. Discussion ensued. S. Cleave reiterated the need for a housing planner. There was agreement that the planning position should be retained its one specific job. DISCUSSION OF THE YMCA'S APPLICATION FOR HOME FUNDS S. Cleave stated that the Y.M.C.A. will submit its application to Cook County on the November 30, and that the application had a good chance of approval, particularly if the Y.M.C.A. involved the Home Loan Bank and EMA Trust Fund in the project. Minutes Evanston Housing Commission November 18, 1993 page 12 S. Calder extended rnotion to adjourn. M. Lane seconded. Meeting adjourned at 10:35 PM. Respectfully submitted, Kelley C. Watson, Interim Housing Planner STAFF PRESENT: PRESIDING OFFICIAL: MINUTES EVANSTON HOUSING COMMISSION THURSDAY, DECEMBER I6, 1993 EVANSTON CIVIC CENTER ROOM 2403, 7:30 PM S. Cleave, S. Calder, IL Fund, M. Lane, P. Killer, S. Calder, V. Young and C. Murphy S. Payne, A. Poole J. Wolinski, S. Janusz and K. Watson S. Cleave S. Cleave called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM 1. Wolinsld sad that Bob Heberger of the Evanston Property Owners Association (EPOA) may not appear before the Evanston Housing Commission as expxted to discuss the issue of altering the interest paid on semmty deposits. J. Wohnsld stated that there was division among the EPOA on this issue. S. Cleave said that he, and perhaps other members of the Evanston Housing Commission would be willing to talk to Bob Hdberger and the EPOA concerning this issue. S. Cleave stated that re ►t history indicated that the EPOA had no interest in a floating interest rate, that the rate should be stable. P. Nfillcr stated that it was a bookkeeping issue, that many firms do not have the resources to aocount for or accommodate a fluctuating rate. V. Young Mated that perhaps the City of Evanston could post the going interest rate. C. Murphy entered the room. Evanston Housing Commission Meeting Minutes, December 16, 1993 Page 2 P. MIIer stales that the Evanston Property Owners Association is very interested in a forum, and would liilm to invite members of the Evanston Housing Commission. She asked whether M. Lane or V. Young would be interested in participating in the forum. S. Cleave stated that he would be happy to work with the Evanston Property Owners Association, and then asked P. Miller is she would be willing to act as liaison between the two groups. P. Miller stated that she would check into it, and that she thought that the Evanston Property Owners Association planned on meeting in January. S. Calder entered the room. P. Miller asked that the September 23 minutes be amended; that the sentence on page 7 be changed from: "P. Miller stated that the inspection program was just a waste of money" to: "P. Miller stated that the inspection program is a waste of money in some neighborhoods. " K. Fond left the room. P. Willa stated that page 1 should read: "Minutes of September 23". M. Lane noted that page 4 should be amended from "asked to whom" to "as to who" and that them was no mention of K. Fund leaving the room. S. Cleave moved to approve the Housing Commission minutes of September 23, October 14, October 28 and November 1E minutes, P. Muller second, all were in favor, the motion carried. S. Calder wanted to know when single family housing inspections stopped. J. Wolinski replied that inspections were eliminated in 1982. C. Murphy asked for background information on the Planning and Development minutes. She ask-d for clarification of the meetings' discussions. S. Cleave re-inuoduced the issue of abandoned buildings, and reiterated Ald. Kent's concern in this matter. S. Cleave explained the structure and mechanics of the City of Chicago's Abandoned Evanston Housing Commission 1Keedng Minutes, December 16, 1993 Page 3 yIRRIJ (ON90241FAMIh NI DID R A/M G U -3Inzo U11►t YM . ► • M31: V. I . Building Program: if there are life safety problems, a housing court will rule on the case, a judge appoints a receiver, and gives him or her up to $150,000 of City money to fix those problems, and places a lien on the for that amount. The City then calls the note. If the property owner doesn't come up with the money, then the City forecldses on the note, acquires the property and sells it to a non-profit group to run as low-income housing, taking back the mortgage for the amrntnt of the sale, or close to it. S. Cleave asked if there are any life safety issues which would facilitate the need for a similar program in Evanston. J. Wolinsk i responded that maybe once a year the City encounters a situation that is life threatening. S. Cleave stated that theme probably wasn't a need for an Abandoned Building program in Evanston. He mentioned that there was a housing court in Skokie where a judge hears only housing cases one day a week, that perhaps a similar means of sddressing problems could be instituted here. J. Wolinskd stated that the only time the City of Evanston will order a house abandoned is in cases where water, gas or sewers are not operating co=dy. K. Fund wanted to know how to proceed on these issues. S. Cleave stated that code violations appear on court case dockets, which have been temporarily suspended. IL Fund asked about relocating persons who have been displaced as a result of housing abandonment acdons. J. Wolinski stated that the City, along with insurance companies, determine the status of the building and whether or not it is habitable. Where wry, the'Rsizance company will pay fbr rehabilitation of the building. The City would then issue permits to rebuild. S. Cleave asked that a section be added on page 3 indicating that he considered advocacy of the Section 8 program as one of the many reasons the City needs a housing planner. S. Cleave stated that the synopses of the cases did not provide the information he needed. He stated that the goal of the F.I.T. program is to assist low inclome families in making a transition over a two year period, that the key to the program is the transitional component, and that nowhere in either the minutes of meetings or in the CHAS, is this goal mentioned. S. Cleave requested more detailed information in the form of case write-ups, transition plans and the Evanston Housing Commission Meeting Niinutes, December 16, 1993 Page 4 I. "V1118111 I► �; : �tiy�� • ► 1 • : ; M�; : =�;►• :ih '1 • ►I� • :: M�; .i 1►1 progress toward them. S. Cleave stated that the quarterly reports submitted provided financial information only. P. Mlle stated that the in&rmat= from quarter to quarter was exactly the same except for a few last senof updates. She also stated that case #92-1 and #93-1 were missing from the third quarter report. S. Clem stated that case #91-1 was also missing. P. Miller responded that case 191-1 had been discontinued. P. Miller asiaed for an explanation of the case histories, pointing out that most of the infornation remained the same from quarter to quarter and that the histories didn't make sense. S. Cleave asked how the F.LT. subsidy for case #91-2 could be continued through November 1993, but be up for redetermination in December of 1993. K. Watson stated that the family is being paid through November, that the family was up for redetermination in December, but is being paid through December and the redetermination has been moved to January. K. Watson further stated the quartmdy reports were created in accordance with to the format established by her predecessor, Bill Povalla, and that she assumed the Housing Commission was familiar with this format. She stated that she would be issuing a spreadsheet of financials to supplement the quarterly reports, and that those spreadsheets are forthcoming. K. Watson also explained that the reports she issued were similar in scope and magnitude to those submitted by Bill Povalla, and that she updated cases according to their situation in the last two quarters only. That is why some of the information won't have changed from previous quarters. She explained that the mformatim contauivl within the reports was consistent with what Bill had provided, and that she did not have the benefit of personal experience or historical y,..-1r-"ve when developing the reports. She staled that the main purpose of the reports was to indicate the financial status of the F.I.T. program. For example, the F.LT. dies scheduled for redetermination in December will have their cases heard in January, and not in December, because of the lag time incurred as a result of Bill's leaving. She also stated that Julius Belser of Reba Church will present two F.I.T. uses before the Commission at the next meeting on January 27. One F.I.T. case involves a family for redeterminattion, while the other is a new applicant to the program. K. Watson also stated that she had contacted F.I.T. sponsors about the deadline for redertimination and that she was still expecting two of the four sponsors to return the required forms. S. Cleave asked whether cast #91-2 was up for . K. Watson stated that the family was. There were questions as to the chronological status of that family, as to whether they had consumed their entitlement of the two years of F.I.T. subsidies. They had not. 1 Evanston Housing Commission Meeting Mtnutm, December 16, 1993 Page S NO11 IR 1 Q& M: ; \t I44 Mans OV610111A-,40:1; 114WX :4h I$ . • zj 4611M 5 sn: Il M W1 TOM S.. Calder stated that the Evanston Housing commission had drafted a reporting form as a means of monitoring the F.LT. program. She asked K. Watson what she required from the sponsors in terms of reporting. K. Watson responded that sponsors forward updated information relative to the families' financial and personal status; for example, if there has been a change in the number of dependents or in wages earned, those situations would affect the F.I.T. subsidy received. S. Calder stated that she was concerned that the sponsors did not stay in touch with the family. K. Watson responded that some sponsors are vigilant about that, that they send letters regularly indicating the families' status, and that the program responds accordingly. K. Watson also stated that her limited experience with the program also indicated that a F.I.T. family would approach the sponsor when their situation had changed, and that generally if any problems arose, that would be the source of interaction. S. Calderstwd that last year there was a significant problem with a family, and that the Housing Commission requested that the sponsor be more agressive in teams of accountability and intmcdon on an ongoing basis. S. Cleave stated that this was an issue the Commission started to address before Bill left, that the Commission wanted both a financial report and a progress report. K. Watson stated she would provide more detailed information on the families. V. Young asked for supplementary and information to the current synopses. She also requested that the sponsors be held to a reporting schedule more frequent than every six months. P. Miller asked about the eIing component. S. Calder mentioned the reporting forms again as a way to track sponsor accountability. M. Lane assed S. Calder about the level of the sponsors' commitment. S. Calder stated that the sponsors' commitment was financial and counseling, that some sponsors are great in terms of setting goals and that some are not. K. Watson stated that in some cases the sponsor has established a personal relationship with the family and can offer a personal recommendation for the F.I.T. program. M. Lane asked about the process for accepting families. S. Cleave stated that the Housing Planner reverifies the status of the family on a quarterly basis; and gets updates on the sponsor on how the transition is going. K. Fund asked about sponsor accountability and the qualifications of the sponsor. S. Caader stated that the sponsor must appear before the Housing Commission before sponsoring a family. K. Fund asked S. Calder about a particular case, that she was concerned about too many loose ends and lack of supervision. S. Cleave staed that his greatest concern was in the transition component, because F.I.T. is not intended as a general assistance program. There should be an enforcement mechanism thorugh documentation. Evanston Housing Commission Meeting N inutes, December 16, 1993 Page 6 a;�Tr� r. r; :.tiyrr • . i�i • ; ; r�; ; n.�• ;+r� �! , • .n • : ; r�; 11.! � I'y r:li; � • :: r�; tirl: DI; . • /�Ivl: �; �x bra :. N : :.!� S. Cleave asked that the F.I.T. reports be re -submitted per the Commission's comments and suggestions. K. Watson stated she would update and re -submit the reports to reflect both a financial summary and a program summary of each F.I.T. rase history. S. Calder also asked for more detailed information on the present, and not the past. K. Watson stated that she would provide detailed information indicating the status and progress of each famciiy's transition. S. Cleave asked about the status of getting a PC for the Housing Planner. He then stated that programs from last year's report were not contained in this year's report. K. Watson responded that that was the case, that she had included only the programs indicated by Bill Povalla, deleting some but adding those concerned with HOME applications. K.. Watson also stated that in the interest of time she included and updated only what she was instructed. S. Cleave stated that there were many typographical swore and inconsistencies, and asked for a cleaner copy. For example, in one instance, the Evanston Housing Coalition was incorrectly referred to as the Evanston Housing Commission. P. Miller asked for clarification of the sentence: "The Evanston Housing Commission (EHC), which is an Evanston based Community Housing Development Organization, came before the Evanston Housing Commission on August 27, 1992, and voted unanimously to support the Evanston Single Family Rentals Program in concept' as it appears on page 28 of the APR. She wanted to know what the program is and who voted for it. S. Cleave stated that the word "who' should be substituted for the word "and", to read that the Commission voted to accept the Housing Coalition's program. S. Cleave asked that Commission members forward their corrections and typos to K. Watson for resubmission of the APR. S. Cleave said he found the APR more beneficial than the CHAS. 1. Wolinski stated that the CHAS went before the Council in November and that Ald. Kent had some questions regarding the information on the inventory of vacant lots and boarded up buildings. He also stated that he had received phone calls from constituents in the 5th Ward regarding misinformation that all the board -ups were in the 5th Ward. As a result, that information will be corrected accordingly. C. Murphy stated that the Center For Public Ministry program description on page I I indicated that a decreasing number of Evanston persons are being served by the program, r L Evanston Housing Commission �g Minutes, Decem,� 16, 1993 S. Clem moved to V V, V � a the schedule. IiI Ili „ :I, 'V N 1,1111Gi � jili4' i S. Qdder seconded and it was approved unanimously. S. Cleave Aced for a member of the Comm off - V. Your Communications Subcommittee to g distributed a hand out for Co report on the activities 8 P action, Pmcurtment and procedures comment. She asked about The hand out will save an informational pn7cedures Hugh the ,City of Evanston. in h o'er Fact Sheet and a Ieantin par ell for an. to their • To that end, the Fact Sheet g tool to encourage citizen n will List a phone number that -TyT g questions. S. Calder asked that citizens �ry�s ° has distribution Lists. I. Woiirzyki about speci{�c distribution points, in the Mayor's Special Housing Fund forty that there were monies available a matter of finandng, that outc}t - Pucticm and mailing, S. Cleave stared that Section 8 issues encompasses landlord/ it was program and the Evanston Neighborhood Conf tenant issues, to include the Cleave also asked about Wit ting CDBG monies to ices issues landlord/tenant issues. S, toward housing issues. V. Young stated that the content of the Fact Sheet cOnDWt, distribution and mailing procedures. S. was ge issue. Discussion ensued about °�l4 � including several Calder suggested inclusion in "Highlights-. WoUn r, an the Fans department phone numbers and not just one enraJ. pposedl m $ - S. Cleave asked about the central r 1 phone be tiosz. V. Young v, anted to know why invr�� ma �c� number that was °an'� wouldproblem. J. Wo ' S a central customer service the Fact Sheet could also be used said he wmild look into it further. V. Young stated that suggested =tendin as advertising for a housing g an invitation to lenders, non -profits conference next yam• She answering questions on housing related issues. PS , realtors and citizens as a forum for Department to speak about lead -based Cleave suggested inviting the Health can�ce with the Evanston Rleighb000d issues.He o suggested eo- concludin sponsorship of the g that a joint effort would prove beneficial in fostering and realtors and banks, g Public awareness. 1C. Watson stated that the communications effort lended itself to a S That inherently, housing related issues a P�er's Bureau a should be designed accordingly. PPS to a diverse constituent approach. audience 8iY• For example, Prospective constituency and that the program a Y� from seniors, and that programs should tahomeowners constitute a diffferent g stated that The housing Ccmferanc r could be tied into sped cally to these interests. whts7c 2-3 sessions rue concept of a Speakcr,s Bureau, a choice. The conference in adressing a diversity of issues. Attendees ulkd perhaps be scheduled over the �s would then have � was an issue of critic( mass. k weekend, S. Cleave said the that the Evanston Neighborhood Conference a stated that interaction is key, S. Janusz stated sponsors an all day confers ieVMy year. r Evanston Housing Commission Meeting Minutes, December 16, 1993 Page 8 IL Fund stated that the Commission needs a marketing program. S. Cleave stated that there are housing related activities which could be marketed: 1) Rehab Loan programs; 2) Home Security and Lock program and 3) First Time Homebuyers program. K. Watson stated that she was developing a media list, to include local, regional and national trades as well as comprehensive print and electronic media. S. Cleave suggested advertising on Cable TV. K. Watson staged it was a matter of packaging -and marketing, that there are many stories to tell, that it was a matter of positioning. For example, stories could be angled to media interests in urban renewal, urban affairs, community development and social activism. M. Lane suggested that the Commission should research the affordable housing efforts of Rep. Mel Reynolds. K_ Watson zdmd S. Cleave for a list of subcommittee members. The membership is as follows: V. Young, M. Lane and S. Calder - Communications Subcommittee; S. Cleave and V. Young -Ownership Subcommittee; S. Payne, C. Murphy, P. Miller and S. Cleave, Vacant Lots Subovaunittee. K.. Fund volunteered to repnzent the Commission on the Habitat For Humanity project. S. Cleave introduced the Habitat For Humanity proposal. He stated that the Commission and Habitat For Humanity had a very positive meeting last Friday and that forming 4-5 committees is the next step in the development process. The Family Selection Committee and the Local Cow Committee will be the ELM to be created. These Committees will work together to select a family, design a house and facilitate focus groups within the neighborhoods. S. Cleave stated that Dick Mergener, the Finance Director for Habitat, was interested in serving persons earning 50% below the median income, by delivering a 1,5000 - 2,000 sq. fL house that costs approximately $60,000 with a mortgage take back of approximately $40,000. C. Murphy stated that prior to development, Habitat was seeking assistance from community and business groups in Evanston, including Northwestern University and Evanston High School, S. Cleave stated that Habitat For Humanity Uptown was interested in forming a new chapter in Evanston. C. Murphy also stated that Habitat and Target Stores have entered into a joint relationship for building homes. J. Wolinsld stated that in the next several weela the Commission should be ready to put the whole development proposal package together. S. Cleave stated that the Development Agreement would inti,.,�r.,.dte the RFP, that the RFP should be Exhibit A to the Agreement. 1 I�V i i �1 ki V611,11 Evanston Housing Commission Ming 1Ignutes, December 16, 1993 Page 9 cvnt'd S. Cleave stated that S. Payne had asked that The sentence: Development "The �� will be selected b m � Agreement be amended. n�S�orhood residents, one member of the Housing Commission Selection Committee comprised of "The families.......at bast one member of the Housing , ...... should be modified ousin Commission. " to: in • favor made a motion to accept the Z�opment Agreement with th on carried. a above changes. All were P. hiller asked K. i�Vatson about the schedule for K. VYatsvn rimed that she had ��g current and completed ;Habitat that the schedule was flexible, to Jim Lundeen of Habitat For Humanity Projects. Commission would have the weekend moons favored. K. Watson pl Uptown, and Xmmore and 5530 N. Winthrop ' to tour three projects; explained that the and one in the two completed ones at ¢'J00 N, �� a tune � � based on the input from aPmcess at 7405 Ashland. She said she would the Habitat Project involve l`dorthw mmaission members. S. alder suggests � estcrn University students. S. Cleave made motion to send the Habitat For P be included in the PPlanning J, 'n Development C m i Dung Humanity Development Agreement on to the ovnsla and S. Cleave agreed that tier Young seconded all were in favor and the motion Planning and Development agenda for January3 1994t Memorandum should S. Cleave gated `� Cit�l Council had revi,,, t� City" �Ofii��l q,�to Ming the need formortgage yer Programs and that there and couldn't get financing under FNMA and �g for B and C credits, or for those .MC loan , and stated guidelines. S. Cleave explained FNMA ins,t meet that there are now conduits providingthe lif3LMAC �d�- The conclusion was markets for market solutions that the City could get involved in, but that it would be du that tinge are private that it was not in the City s best in PUirtg efforts, and conduits. S, Cleave - S. Janusz asked S. Crave for clarification of the they make the same stated mortgage they were subsidiaries of �vestrnent banks, Wall Street firms Ewen, to involve backed secorsurity• The idea is to brie ,that localtutions in to ' L*W re'sOurces and dovetail with the lender's consortium. ecence. S. Cleave explained that and establish 30/30 FNMA was under Pressure to buy more low income loans tome targets. 30 % of the mortgages the buy eve Persons earning as 115 % of the local m y Y �' Y� are f the l moderate buy must be inner cities. E median income or Tess, and 30� of the loans they Evanston is included, by zip code analysis, as a antral, city. , Cleave further stated that two ion b�! NBD and Chicago inner, or their stag Bank borrowersat � these loans are av need to know One, were liberalizing ' ailable, dfl Evanstpn Housing Commission Meeting Mnutes, December 16, 1993 Page 10 cont'd V. Young stated that FNMA has a program called IN Neighbors, with v ery liberalized S Neighbors S. ClMe stated that tithe P?ro� is design for individuals, and not profit -maids entitimstand, easier for individuals to get credit, g tuxes, that V, Young stated that there was a program whereby a m unicipali load and exercise a Iand/lg�� of d sc option for the �' or other groups could ar�xss S. Cleave thought the program was the Communitydevelopment and fostering ownership. Land Tnsst, M. Lane stated that the vehicle for addressing B and C credits was important, S. CI,eave stated that the Eve Housing Cogoratxon than it is, S, Cleave csplained EHC's mission: the �C) could be a more effective vehicle make no more than 100 % of them Corporation serves first-time homebuyers who cd= income, and who have o f the � It Provides two mortgages to buy their first home; tbeen he first mortgage deats for at amount,mVage funded by the lenddas in the 63 a 1.5 � con,soxdum. - make 1.59b o� the 30 � W=ury �. the City then makes a s=,,d mm'tgAge for 20� 3 � of the total Mortgage amOunt, at 0 % interest rate. The City, in eff ectleaders maim an above marimi interest rate on the first is subsidizing the first mortgage, the City' takes ail the risk, S. ortgage and get CRA credit, white the �� stated that there is limited d"mand for the program {S 1 M in 15 months}, and the City is not getting a good deal. M. Lane stated that she had im►estigated this Programs and could not find a knowledgeable to answer her o'er, and that because she did not earn $50,0001y�, she felt Ostracized the program, from C, Murphy stated that when she investigated rNuiren=M, but could not find a house that qualified, 'she found that she met the income S, Cleave stated that the EEC program was established for to the private market m currently in place. erhanisms S. Janusz stated that when the homes, about S2.25 M since 1989ogram was first established, EEC sold a loan portfolio of 25 S. Cleave stated that a leaders' consortium is x great vehicle, but that it needs near . dzrcction. N Evanston Housing Commission Meeting Minutes, December lb, 1993 Page 11 Financing multi -family real estate and rental x.,...c:es, refinancing homes or coordinating rehabilitation could be additional activities for EHC consideration. S. Janusz stated that when EHC was created in 1989, there were very few of these programs around, but that now there is competition. S. Janusz also stated that in turns of the City being in a second position, and in the case of a foreclosure, the losses would probably be shared. V. Young stated she would like to see that agreement in writing. S. Janusz stated the agreement was not in writing, that it was an understanding. S. Cleave asked Commission members to think of new products for the EHC. S. Cleave suggested a program for down payment assistance. V. Young stated that dw= were two classes of borrowers; those who have a credit glitch but who have the down payment, and those who have good credit but who don't have the cash. Problems arise when a borrower experience both those problems. P. Miller asked who was nmdmtdang title insurance for the Habitat project. S. Cleave stated that they hadn't yet adressed that. P. Miller asked about court cases. J. wolinsld stated that he would get back to that. S. Cleave made motion to adjourn; P. Miller seconded. Meeting adjourned at 10:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Kelley C. W n, Staff