Government

5 Year Consolidated Plan for Housing Development

December 8, 2018

Executive Summary

ES‐05 Executive Summary ‐ 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b)

1.              Introduction

The City of Bessemer has developed a five year Consolidated Plan For Housing And Community Development Programs for program years 2015‐2019. This document comprises the planning and submission process for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Inasmuch as an Annual Action Plan must be prepared for each year of the Consolidated Plan, the following also includes the proposed FY2015 Action Plan, which outlines the City’s Economic Development and Community Development needs and strategies relative to CDBG entitlement funds for FY2015 of $486,551.00, and projected Program Income of $274,712.00. Copies of the City’s 2015‐2019 Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development Programs, and FY2015 Action Plan will be available for inspection in the City’s Community Development Department, 1800 3rd Ave. North, Bessemer, Alabama, Monday through Friday, except legal holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Economic and Community Development Department of the City of Bessemer served as the lead agency during the development of the FY2015 Consolidated Plan and Action Plan. Consolidated Plan rules developed by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) require all jurisdictions to consult and coordinate with appropriate agencies, and among its own departments, to assure that its Consolidated Plan is a comprehensive document that addresses statutory purposes. In an effort to meet these and other requirements in the development of its FY2015 Action Plan and Consolidated Plan, the City of Bessemer’s Economic and Community Development Department worked with with the Bessemer Housing Authority to develop statistical information regarding public and assisted housing and a number of other agencies mentioned throughout this document relative to their expertise.

2.              Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment Overview

The City’s Community Development Objectives include the utilization of CDBG funds for: 1) Public Facilities, and Public Services to improve the general quality of life in the community, and 2) To foster neighborhood stability through Historic Rehabilitation, Housing Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, Permanent Relocation, Temporary Relocation and Refinancing with the goal of increased housing production and home ownership for families at and below low‐to‐moderate income levels., and 3) To utilize Economic Development Loans to encourage business development and create jobs .The projected use of funds stated herein has been developed so as to give maximum priority to activities that will benefit families at, and below, the low‐to‐moderate income level or aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight. In addition, the projected use of funds is consistent with the City’s established strategy of stabilizing the City’s housing stock and reversing negative trends associated with urban decay and blight. The City’s strategy for community development has three basic goals:1)To improveneighborhood stability through physical improvements and housing rehabilitation; 2) Improve the economic life of the City by encouraging business development and jobs, and 3) To cause increased production and home ownership for families at all income levels at or below the low to moderate income level. The City intends to continue its efforts to obtain available federal, state, local, and private funding, to provide for community wide improvements in each of the areas outlined above in as many communities and neighborhoods as funding permits. Of the formula grant programs the City only

receives CDBG funding.Therefore, this document only relates to CDBG Entitlement funds and Revolving Loan funds. However, the City is investigating the possibility of an ESG program for the direct benefit of the homeless in concert with the local continuum of care and the possible use of CDBG funds in that area of service.

3.              Evaluation of past performance

The City of Bessemer has a large low and low to moderate income elderly population. As a result there is great need for home repairs related to the needs of the elderly and disabled. The focus of the FY2010‐ FY2015 Consolidated Plan was to address the needs of the elderly relative to housing with a focus on repairs that met the definitions of the American’s With Disabilities ACT. The performance of the City relative to the elderly was accomplished in the main by two programs: The Deferred Loan program and the Emergency Grant program. In addition to those programs the City utilized its Housing Revolving Loan Fund to provide funding for its Buy/Rehab/Sell program and Rehabilitation/Refinance program to make significant rehabilitation possible for several new and existing homeowners. Given CDBG budget cuts of close to 30% it was not possible to provide as many Emergency Grants as hoped when the FY2010‐ FY2014 Consolidated Plan was designed. Later the necessity of repaying a large Section 108 Loan greatly impacted the availabity of CDBG funds for housing programs. However, the Emergency Grant met the needs of many citizens and a back log of applicants exists relative to the funds available. The City utilized significant unprogrammed funds from prior years to pay most of the remaining debt from a

$4,000,000.00 Section 108 loan and will pay that loan off with $22,000.00 in CDBG Entitlement funds in FY2015. The payoff of this Section 108 note will free over $300,000.00 in CDBG Entitlement Funds the City had been forced to committ from its CDBG grant each year since 2009. With the elimination of the Section 108 Loan as a major expense, using unprogrammed funds from prior years, more CDBG funds will be targeted to the Emergency Grant program. The City’s new partnership with Habitat for Humanity is expected to allow for service to more elderly citizens by removing blight and improving neighborhoods through Reconstruction and Rehabilitation. The City utilized CDBG funds over the past five years for Clearance, but the City also provided considerable funding for clearance activities. The decision by the City to address Clearance with general funds and a grant through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity will free CDBG funds for use in both Housing and Parks and Recreation. The City was successful in the utilization of both a Buy/Rehab/Sell and Rehabilitaion/Rehab program.

Unfortunately these programs are more expensive on a per unit basis than standard rehabilitation programs and lower the number of participants who can be served. Therefore, the City will focus on the Rehabilitation Loan program for significant rehab needs and Emergency Grants for medically related repairs. The City administerd a Economic Development/Job Creation program during the period of

the FY2010‐FY2014 Consolidated Plan. The primary goal of Economic Development Loans is job creation. Job creation through loans to large companies proved very successful and less so to smaller and start up companies. As a result the City will focus on loans to companies with the ability to create large numbers of jobs. However, the City still plans to provide loans to smaller businesses by limiting the amount of each loan. The City ran a successful, ongoing summer youth program called Camp Bessemer that was

funded jointly from general funds and and CDBG Public Service funds. The City plans to continue this program throughout the period of this Consolidated Plan. The City also administered an NSP grant designed to buy, rehabilitate and sell abandoned and foreclosed houses. The NSP program will close early in FY2015. The City has been successful in many Public Facility projects. The City plans to continue Park improvements, and is in process with a state of the art Re‐Cycling center it budgeted $100,000.00 for. The Recycling Center involves the use of State Grant funds, City funds and CDBG funds. The City will close out its NSP grant in FY2015.

4.              Summary of citizen participation process and consultation process

The City of Bessemer has undertaken, throughout the development of its FY2015 Action Plan and Consolidated Plan, an open, credible, and broad‐based effort to involve and solicit the participation of community and neighborhood leaders, and residents of their needs and the types of services that they would like to see established or improved throughout the City. In an effort to broaden public participation in the development of the FY2015‐2019 Consolidated Plan Action Plan, the City held public hearings on March 16th, 2015, March 23rd 2015, and March 30th, 2015 throughout the City. The purpose of the hearings was to obtain comments and proposals for the use of the City’s FY2015 consolidated formula allocation and to obtain views of citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties on the housing and community development needs of the City. Citizens were also afforded the opportunity to 1) identify housing and community development needs and priorities; 2) review proposed uses of funds; and 3) comment on, and review the City’s program performance. All comments, priorities, and proposals received were considered in the development of the City’s FY2015‐FY2019 Consolidated Plan and FY2015 Action Plan.

5.              Summary of public comments

In the three public meetings held to discuss the CDBG program and the upcoming Consolidated Plan citizens who commented asked for a renewed focus on Parks and Recreation and a continuation of existing Housing related programs. There was general consensus that a long term plan for park improvements would be well received. Citizens agreed with the present design for the use of Housing Revolving Loan funds and were in favor of an increased focus on the Emergency Grant program. Citizens also spoke to the need for clearance projects in their neighborhoods and their concern that they could loose insurance coverage if dilapidated were allowed to stand next to their properties. They were supportive of the City’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity relative to Clearance.

6.              Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them

Comments centered around the existing consolidated plan. Most commentary was actually in the form of questions about how programs worked and eligibility related to those programs. Therefore, no comments or views were not accepted as to the kind of programs needed.

7.              Summary

,The City of Bessemer, over the course of the next five years will continue to focus on the needs of housing for the elderly with new CDBG grant funds while continuing to provide loans to assist in the repair of existing housing stock through its revolving loan fund. In addition, the City has committed CDBG funds in each year of the FY2015‐FY2019 Consolidated Plan for Parks and Recreation and for Public Services that enhance the educational and employment opportunities of the City’s youth. It is anticipated that a partnership with Habitat for Humanity that will utilize “Hardest Hit” funding for clearance will make a significant impact on the removal of blight from the City and that that same partnership will also allow the City to undertake a greater number of housing projects with both its CDBG grant funds and revolving loan funds. The City utilized significant unprogrammed funds from prior years to pay most of the remaining debt from a $4,000,000.00 Section 108 loan and will pay that loan off with $22,000.00 in CDBG Entitlement funds in FY2015. The payoff of this Section 108 note will free over

$300,000.00 annually in CDBG Entitlement Funds the City had been forced to committ from its CDBG grant each year since 2009. The City of Bessemer utilizes a variety of community planning sources, stakeholder input, and program performance from prior years for the planning and development of its Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans. The essential purpose of the Consolidated Plan and all subsequent Annual Action Plans is to provide a guide for the usage of the limited funds available and to focus on projects and objectives that will result in the greatest positive impact possible on the community.

The Process

PR‐05 Lead & Responsible Agencies 24 CFR 91.200(b)

1.         Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source

The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.

Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative

The City of Bessemer’s Department of Economic and Community Development prepared the Consolidated Plan. The Department is also responsible for the execution, design and management of all CDBG programs. The City cooperated with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority in developmet of Fair Housing policies, practices and goals and is cooperating with the One Roof organization to study the need for ESG funds, their use, and possible policies and practices relative to the needs of the homeless. The Bessemer Public Housing Authority is the Lead Agency in administering the City’s Section 8 and Public Housing Programs. One Roof is the Lead Agency in the Continuum of Care in Jefferson County and the municipalities therein.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information

City of Bessemer Department of Economic and Community Development, 1800 3rd. Ave. North, Bessemer, AL 35020. Forrest R. Davis‐Director (fdavis@bessemeral.org), Abraham Ward‐Principal Housing Specialist (award@bessemeral.org), Doris Lewis‐Community Resource Officer (dlewis@bessemeral.org), Eddy Parsons‐Rehabilitaion Specialist and GIS Technician (eparsons@bessemeral.org). Phone: 205‐424‐4060, FAX: 205‐426‐8374.

PR‐10 Consultation ‐ 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)

1.              Introduction

The City of Bessemer through Department of Economic and Community Development has endeavored to consult with public and private agencies at every level to develop the 2015‐2019 Consolidated Plan. Of particular importance is the Bessemer Public Housing Authority, which works very closely with the Department of Economic and Community Development. The City consulted with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority relative to the leveraging of federal funds for housing, Housing programs in

General and to the provision of educational and Public Services for the citizens of Bessemer. The City has also consulted with the Jefferson County Community Development Department relative to disaster relief and housing. The City has consulted with Habitat for Humanity relative to the needs of first time home buyers and blight removal and the use of “hardest Hit Alabama” funding to remove blighted structures throughout the City. The City also consulted with Habitat for Humanity relative to reconstruction and rehabilitation programs. The City consulted with the “One Roof” organization relative to the needs of the homeless. The City also consulted with memebers of the faith based community to determine the needs and priorities that should be established relative to housing rehabilitation. The City consulted with the Alabama Department of Public Health in its design of Lead Based Paint programs and the Foundry relative to the homeless and other needs including services related to drug addiction. In addition the City consulted with UAB West relative to the needs of the disabled and the delivery mechanisms associate with the Emergency Housing Repair Grant program.

Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(I)).

The City of Bessemer, through its Department of Economic and Community Development has formed a partnership with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority that has proved to be successful in briging more and better housing services and opportunities to the citzens of Bessemer. In 2009 the City and the Bessemer Public Housing Authority successfully partnered to win an NSP 1 grant. The City and the Bessemer Public Housing Authority partnered, in 2015 to apply for funds through the National Resilience Grant competition. The City also partnered with the Jefferson County Community Development Department in its application for the National Resilience Grant competition.The City has partnered with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority to provide educational opprtunities relative to health and housing to the citizens of Bessemer. The City has also partnered with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority to work with them on a program to transition public housing residents to privately owned housing through its CDBG Housing program. The City has worked with UAB Medical Center West to provide assistance to individuals who qualify for the City’s CDBG funded Emergency Grant program. The City works with the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs to administer an NSP grant. The City has partnered with the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Environmental Protection Agency to sponsor seminars on Lead Based paint for both citizens and contractors. The City

has also worked with the JCCEO to help it identify eligible participants in Bessemer to participate in their “Weatherization” program. Do date approximately 300 residents of the City of Bessemer have been able to take advantage of the Weatherization Program.

Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness

The City is working with the “One Roof” organization to develop policies and practices to address the needs of the homeless and to apply for ESG funding. One roof has identified 100 chronically homeless persons within the City of Bessemer. Of those persons, many are part of homeless families. The City and One Roof are working to develop programs that can provide houses for these families. The City and One Roof hope to establish a relationship that will allow the City to acquire ESG funding whereby One Roof will serve as s subgrantee to assist in administering those funds.

Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction’s area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards and evaluate outcomes, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the administration of HMIS

The City does not receive ESG funds. However, the City is working with the “One Roof” organization to develop policies and practices to address the needs of the homeless and to apply for ESG funding. One roof has identified 100 homeless persons within the City of Bessemer. Of those persons, many are families. The City and One Roof are working to develop programs that can provide houses for these families. The City and One Roof hope to establish a relationship that will allow the City to acquire ESG funding whereby One Roof could serve as a subgrantee to assist in administering those funds. The City has consulted with One Roof to determine the nuimber of homeless and need for services for the homeless in Bessemer. The City does not now receive ESG funding.

2.              Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities

Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated

Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting

Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan

Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts

Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan (91.215(l))

The City consulted with the Jefferson County Community Development Department relative to the housing needs associated with the recent storm related disasters in Jefferson County and Bessemer. The City also consulted with the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs relative to the effect NSP program and the National Disaster Resiliency Grant.

The City consulted with the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Environmental Protection Agency relative to Lead Based Paint regulations and their impact on housing as well as the need for public education relative to the dangers of lead based paint. And the City works with Jefferson County relative to asbestos testing and abatement.

Narrative (optional):

The City of Bessemer, The Bessemer Public Housing Authority, and the Jefferson County Community Development Department often work together to achieve goals that benefit their mutual constituents. All three agencies, along with other entities from Jefferson County, recently cooperated to submit an application to participate in the Disaster Resiliency Grant Program. The City also consulted with, and appreciates the contributions of, organizations like the Regional Planning Commission, the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Economic Development Association of Alabama.

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 11

PR‐15 Citizen Participation

1.         Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal‐setting

The City of Bessemer has established a Citizen Participation process that comports with all HUD rules and regulations. The purpose of the process, relative to CDBG, is to assure that citizens, to the greatest extent possible, have a voice in program design and expenditure goals and targets. Three meetings were held on March 16th, March 23rd and March 30th of 2015, to allow citizens to provide input relative to the Consolidated Plan for FY2015 thru FY2019. Citizens were encouraged to comment on all aspects of the CDBG program and to indicate the programs they would like to see in place in the Consolidated Plan.

Citizen Participation Outreach

Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 14

Needs Assessment

NA‐05 Overview

Needs Assessment Overview

The primary obstacle to meeting the needs of the community within the National Objectives of the CDBG program is a lack of adequate funding. Based on the trend of reduced funding every year for the last three years it is reasonable to assume that this is a trend that will continue and that the associated problems will grow as funding decreases. However, the City of Bessemer has taken measures to meet the need to remove slum and blight through the use of general funds and its recent partnership with Habitat for Humanity to carry out Clearance operations throughout the City. The consistent decrease in CDBG funding has resulted in staff reductions and the problems associated with that situation. While not a direct replacement for proper staffing the City has partnered with various agencies including Habitat for Humanity, UAB West, the United Way of Central Alabama and the Bessemer Public Housing Authority to attempt to maintain the services the citizens of Bessemer deserve.

Lead based paint rules and regulations limit the type and extent of rehabilitation services that can be offered due to the expense of lead based paint abatement. A large portion of the housing in Bessemer suffers from the presence of lead based paint. Over 70% of the housing in the City was constructed before 1979. Lead testing is exempted on all houses built after 1979. Lead base paint rules apply across all age groups regardless of that groups susceptibility to the dangers of lead based paint. In the last three years the cost of lead testing has doubled. Testing costs must, in many cases, be paid with Delivery Cost funds. Lead based paint rules create the need for additional funding.

A large area of the City is composed of an active flood plain. This causes the continued deterioration of houses located within that flood plain and, while simutaneously limiting the opportunities for housing rehabilitation because of rules and regulations associated with the flood plain. As such, the City has an exceptional need for funding to relocate the mostly elderly populationt out of the flood plain.

NA‐10 Housing Needs Assessment ‐ 24 CFR 91.205 (a,b,c)

Summary of Housing Needs

Characteristics that are linked to housing instability and an increased risk of homelessness include families classified as low‐income or extremely low‐income, deteriorated housing conditions, labor market conditions, and the availability of assistance services such as utility bill subsidy, food pantries, etc. A lack of safe, decent, affordable housing stock is also a characteristic of increased homelessness simply because there may not be adequate affordable units within a community to meet the need. The condition of the labor market influences whether or not people can become or continue to be employed. Higher levels of unemployment result in a higher potential to become homeless. The City of Bessemer has 8494 people living below the poverty line for a 31.4% rate. Obviously, income and the ability to procure and maintain housing go hand in hand. It is almost universally true that persons below the 50% of median income, or low income category, have a housing cost burden above 30% of their income.

Table 5 ‐ Housing Needs Assessment Demographics

Data Source:             2000 Census (Base Year), 2007‐2011 ACS (Most Recent Year)

Number of Households Table

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 6 ‐ Total Households Table

Housing Needs Summary Tables

1.   Housing Problems (Households with one of the listed needs)

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 7 – Housing Problems Table

2.   Housing Problems 2 (Households with one or more Severe Housing Problems: Lacks kitchen or complete plumbing, severe overcrowding, severe cost burden)

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 8 – Housing Problems 2

3.   Cost Burden > 30%

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 9 – Cost Burden > 30%

4.   Cost Burden > 50%

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 10 – Cost Burden > 50%

5.   Crowding (More than one person per room)

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 11 – Crowding Information – 1/2

Data Source Comments:

Table 12 – Crowding Information – 2/2

Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance.

Currently available data does not provide a way of determining the number and type of single person households alone that are in need of housing assistance. The Department of Economic and Community Development maintains a lengthy waiting list of clients who have requested some form of housing assistance and the Bessemer Public Housing Authority maintains a waiting list of people who have requested housing assistance through the programs that they offer. These lists fluctuate based on the availability of funds, but the need consistently exceeds availability. It is for these reasons that the City of Bessemer has taken measures to improve its housing stock in the targeted areas for homeowners and renters alike. Single persons that require housing assistance require special consideration due to the limited stock of housing units. According to 2013 American Community Survey Estimates, 31.4% of the households in the City of Bessemer live below the poverty level. It is reasonable to assume a significant portion of those living under the poverty level are single person households

Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

The US Census data from 2009‐2013 indicates 3659 (15.7%) of all persons living in Bessemer under the age of 65 are disabled. Statistics are not available for the City of Bessemer relative to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking relative to housing.

What are the most common housing problems?

The most common housing problems encountered by the staff of the Department of Economic and Community Development involve deteriorating housing stock due to age and the ability of low income individuals to maintain their houses properly. Electrical system repairs, plumbing system repairs, foundation repairs, roof repairs and replacement, HVAC system repairs and issues related to for assistance is related to roofing repairs.

Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems?

The elderly, the disabled, those in the lowest income categories, and those living in flood plains are more often affected than other population types relative to housing problems. It is also true that the lower the income a household has the more likely housing problems will exist.

Describe the characteristics and needs of Low‐income individuals and families with children (especially extremely low‐income) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered 91.205(c)/91.305(c)). Also discuss the needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re‐housing assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance

Extremely Low and Low income families are always at greater risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered. Lower income often results in owned houses that cannot be repaired, or lost due to failure to meet mortgage payments. Those in rental properties also run the risk of eviction due to income problems. The Bessemer Public Housing Authority works to address the needs of many extremely low and low income persons through their public housing facilities. The City of Bessemer does not receive funding from HUD under the Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re‐Housing Program.

If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at‐risk population(s), it should also include a description of the operational definition of the at‐risk group and the methodology used to generate the estimates:

NA

Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness

Characteristics that are linked to housing instability and an increased risk of homelessness include families classified as low‐income or extremely low income, deteriorated housing conditions, labor market conditions, and the availability of assistance services such as utility bill subsidy, food pantries lack of safe, decent affordable housing stock is also a characteristic of increased homelessness simply because there may not be adequate affordable units within a community to meet the need. The condition of the labor market influences whether or not people can become or continue to be employed. Higher levels of unemployment result in a higher potential to become homeless.

Discussion

34.1% of the 27,139 people living in Bessemer live below the poverty level. Approximately 63% of the total population has an income level at or below the low‐to‐moderate standard for the metro Birmingham/Hoover area which applys to Bessemer. The CDBG program of the City of Bessemer is designed to address as many of the outlined housing needs as possible. The limiting factor, from the perspective of the City, in meeting the established housing needs of the community is funding. Funding limits the number of projects and services that can be untertaken. Funding limits the available staff and thus the number and timeliness of projects that can be completed and undertaken. Of course, there would be no need for CDBG funding if houses were in good condition and the population was bankable. Education, Transportation, Jobs, there is a long list of causal factors relative to the condition of housing as it now exists. As long as these underlying conditions exist there will be a need for a safety net to maintain housing in a decent, safe and sanitary condition.

NA‐15 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2)

Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole.

Introduction

The Black/African American community in Bessemer has a disproportionately greater need relative to housing problems than other groups.

0%‐30% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 13 ‐ Disproportionally Greater Need 0 ‐ 30% AMI

*The four housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

30%‐50% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

Table 14 ‐ Disproportionally Greater Need 30 ‐ 50% AMI

2007‐2011 CHAS

*The four housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

50%‐80% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

Table 15 ‐ Disproportionally Greater Need 50 ‐ 80% AMI

2007‐2011 CHAS

*The four housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

80%‐100% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

Table 16 ‐ Disproportionally Greater Need 80 ‐ 100% AMI

2007‐2011 CHAS

*The four housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

Discussion

All CDBG programs administered by the City are of the non‐targeted City‐Wide variety. Programs eligibility, relative to housing assistance, is based primarily on family income with other qualifications factoring in depending on the specific program type. The racial makeup of those receiving CDBG related services through the City of Bessemer have historically been in excess of 95% black/sfrican american.

Given that the population makeup of the city is over 70% black/african american and an even greater percentage of those in the extremely low and low income categories are black/african american the makeup of the univers served is understandable. It is, and has been the desire of the City to assist those who need help the most. The Department of Economic and Community Development conducts outreach to all sectors of the City on a consistent basis through public meetings, advertising and special seminars. It is believed that the more effective this outreach is the more nearly the universe of persons served will resemble those who need help the most.

NA‐20 Disproportionately Greater Need: Severe Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2)

Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole.

Introduction

Over 70% of the population of Bessemer is black/african american. Of the black/african american population the need for housing assistance becomes more disproportionate as incomes fall into the extremely low and low income categories. Black/african americans in an overall sense constitute 84% of the individuals who need and qualify for CDBG related housing services. Historically over 95% of the universe seved through the City of Bessemer’s CDBG housing programs have been black/african american. However, it should be stressed that the number of black/african american families in the extremely low and low income categories works to create a situation where the 95% service rate is proportionate with need and CDBG housing program design.

0%‐30% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 17 – Severe Housing Problems 0 ‐ 30% AMI

*The four severe housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

30%‐50% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 18 – Severe Housing Problems 30 ‐ 50% AMI

*The four severe housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

50%‐80% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 19 – Severe Housing Problems 50 ‐ 80% AMI

*The four severe housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

80%‐100% of Area Median Income

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 20 – Severe Housing Problems 80 ‐ 100% AMI

*The four severe housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

Discussion

NA‐25 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens – 91.205 (b)(2)

Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole.

Introduction:

Over 70% of the population of Bessemer is black/african american. Of the black/african american population the need for housing assistance becomes more disproportionate as incomes fall into the extremely low and low income categories. Black/african americans in an overall sense constitute 84% of the individuals who need and qualify for CDBG related housing services. Historically over 95% of the universe seved through the City of Bessemer’s CDBG housing programs have been black/african american. However, it should be stressed that the number of black/african american families in the extremely low and low income categories works to create a situation where the 95% service rate is proportionate with need and CDBG housing program design. It should be noted that the Cost Burden for housing rises proportionatly as income declines. In almost every case the cost of housing for a family in the low or extremely low income category is in excess of the 30% of income and in most cases the burden is much greater than that. It is a challenge to design programs that can address the needs of the low and extremely low income housing owners because of the cost burden. The City addresses the problems of the elderly and disabled in this category of need through the Emergency Grant Program, but there is a massive need for assistance to stabilize housing and bring it into a safe and sanitary condition that cannot be met because of funding levels and demand for services.

Housing Cost Burden

Data Source:

2007‐2011 CHAS

Table 21 – Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens AMI

Discussion:

NA‐30 Disproportionately Greater Need: Discussion – 91.205(b)(2)

Are there any Income categories in which a racial or ethnic group has disproportionately greater need than the needs of that income category as a whole?

Based on an analysis of the CHAS data provided, it appears that those families who identified as being Black/African American had a disproportionately greater need at each of the income categories.

However, the need increases as income decreases. The housing problems considered included structures that either lack complete kitchen facilities, lack complete plumbing facilities, house more than one person per room, or present a cost Burden greater than 30%. The housing problem may be any one or more of these four problems. When severe housing problems were considered, a disproportionate need is noted in 0%‐30% of Area Median Income category and the 50%‐80% of Area Median Income category. In the 80%‐100% of Area Median Income category Black/African Americans also had exhibited a disproportionately greater need and supports the overall trend, but the statistical universe was much smaller than the 30% and 50% categories and could be considered inconclusive.

If they have needs not identified above, what are those needs?

The needs of families such as those illustrated above who have significant housing problems are either related to the structure itself, overcrowding, cost burden, or a combination of those factors.

Are any of those racial or ethnic groups located in specific areas or neighborhoods in your community?

Of the City’s population of 27,456, 71.4% or 19,546 are black/african american. Due to the spread of the population in general and the overall need for housing assistance in particular CDBG programs have been designed to serve on a city wide basis.

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 31

NA‐35 Public Housing – 91.205(b)

Introduction

The Bessemer Public Housing Authority (BPHA) has proven to be an exceptionally forward thinking unit with results that speak for themselves. The BPHA manages 1230 occupied public housing units, 473 Section 8 vouchers and 70 VASH. The BPHA recently became the first PHA in Alabama to complete the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) process. As a result the BPHA has been able to undertake an $8,708,663.00 FHA insured 221 (d)(4) loanrehabilitation project to convert 198 Public Housing Units to Project Based Rental Assistance Affordable Housing ( Long Term Project Based Section 8 Rental Assistance) in their Davis/Asbury Howard Apartments. The BPHA along with the City of Bessemer and Jefferson County have applied for Disaster Resiliency Grant Funds to construct 37 single family houses and other related infrastructure on PHA property.

Totals in Use

Table 22 ‐ Public Housing by Program Type

*includes Non‐Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One‐Year, Mainstream Five‐year, and Nursing Home Transition

Data Source:              PIC (PIH Information Center)

Characteristics of Residents

Table 23 – Characteristics of Public Housing Residents by Program Type

Data Source:              PIC (PIH Information Center)

Race of Residents

Table 24 – Race of Public Housing Residents by Program Type

Data Source:              PIC (PIH Information Center)

Ethnicity of Residents

Table 25 – Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents by Program Type

Data Source:              PIC (PIH Information Center)

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 35

Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants on the waiting list for accessible units:

More than 25% of the people who need Public Housing are disabled. The great majority, over 72%, have children and most, 87%, are in the category of extremely low income persons.

Most immediate needs of residents of Public Housing and Housing Choice voucher holders

630 are on the Public Housing waiting list. 87% of those are extremely low income, 10% are very income, 5% are low income. 49% on the Public Housing list have children. 6% on the Public Housing list are elderly and 26% are composed of families with disabilities. Of those on the Public Housing list 5% are white and 95% are black.

Section 8: 623 are on the Section 8 waiting list. Of those 82% are extremely Low income, 14% are very low income, 4% are low income. 72% have children, 2% are elderly and 25% have disibilities. 4%

are white and 96% are black.

How do these needs compare to the housing needs of the population at large

Most of those in need of public housing assistance are of low to very low or extremely low income status. In general there is a greater need for accomodations based on the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act

Discussion

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 36

NA‐40 Homeless Needs Assessment – 91.205(c)

Introduction:

The City of Bessemer does not receive ESG funds and has no other funding directed to homelessness at this time. Census data does not provide an estimate of homeless individuals. One Roof, the Continuum of Care, reports 100 total homeless persons in Bessemer. They also indicate that one primary concern is the large number of homeless families that exist. However, homeless families, according to One Roof, are a problem County wide. The City of Bessemer, by all indications, does not have a large or persistent homeless population. The Bessemer Housing Authority and local service agencies agree that the homeless in Bessemer represent persons or families displaced by fire, change in economic conditions or domestic violence. Fortunately, the Continuum and local organizations like the Foundry are available for the homeless.

Homeless Needs Assessment

Table 26 ‐ Homeless Needs Assessment

Data Source Comments:        Data provided by One Roof, the Continuum of Care

Indicate if the homeless population is:

Has No Rural Homeless

If data is not available for the categories “number of persons becoming and exiting homelessness each year,” and “number of days that persons experience homelessness,” describe these categories for each homeless population type (including chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth):

Of the 100 homeless Iidentified by One Roof 37 are now in rental units, 16 are in emergency shelter, 9 are in substance abuse centers, 6 are in transitional housing, 6 are in a house they own, 1 is in a hospital, 6 are in a permanent shelter and 12 are living with family or friends. Only 3 persons were considered unsheltered. It appears the homeless situation in Bessemer is in a constant astate of flux with persons and conditions ever changing.However it also seems that One Roof is having a positive effect in that most of Bessemer’s homeless now have a roof over their heads. The Foundry is a long standing Bessemer organization that impacts individuals in a positive way to prevent them from becoming homeless. Some of the good work done by the Foundry is shown in the section on Non‐Homeless SpecI al needs.

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 38

Nature and Extent of Homelessness: (Optional)

Data Source

Comments:                    Of the 100 homeless identified in Bessemer three were unsheltered.

Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance for families with children and the families of veterans.

If Bessemer statistics are consistent with those of Jefferson County 28% of the homeless are composed of family groups. 10% of the homeless would be composed of veterans.

Describe the Nature and Extent of Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group.

Direct statistics by race and ethnic group are not available specifically for the City of Bessemer. However, if Bessemer, which is located in Jefferson County, follows the same pattern as Jefferson County 64% of the homeless are black and 28% are white, with other groups making up the 8% balance. Given that the largest population group after black & white is hispanic, at 4.1%, it is reasonable to assume hispanics could represent 8% of the homeless population.

Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness.

Of the 100 persons identified as homeless in Bessemer by One Roof, three were identified as occupying a place not suitable for habitation. The remainder were considered sheltered. While the three persons identified as unsheltered are important the total number is statistically insignificant and can not be used to project or predict anything related to the unsheltered homeless.

Discussion:

All statistical analysis is based on the 100 persons identified as homeless in Bessemer by the one roof organization. Bessemers homeless population is not persistent, but is transitional. It is not known if the

number of homeless at 100 is relatively consistent or not. All statistics were derived from a Point In Time survey conducted by One Roof and other organizations on January 25th, 2012.

NA‐45 Non‐Homeless Special Needs Assessment ‐ 91.205 (b,d)

Introduction:

Due to funding levels the City of Bessemer has no programs other than the public services previously that are designed mentioned designed to address Non‐Homeless Special Needs. However, the Emergency Housing Grant program is designed to meet the needs of those with special needs due to medical conditions and disabilities. The Emergency Grant program supplies wheelchair ramps, ADA accessibility improvements, installation of special medical equipment and any other housing modification directly related to a medical condition or disability. The City has no specific CDBG program for this situation, but the Foundry Ministries, a local service organization has a significant presence in Bessemer and in the County relative to drug rehabilitation and homeless prevention. It is believed, based on the comments of participants, that the Emergency Grant program has made it possible for those with disabilities to live at home rather than become homeless.

Describe the characteristics of special needs populations in your community:

Elderly citizens, those with medical needs and the disabled compose the largest groups with special needs. As is the case in many communities some have special needs due to drug addiction. The elderly make up close to 17% of the entire population, but make up a much larger percentage of those with special needs.

What are the housing and supportive service needs of these populations and how are these needs determined?

The City addresses the housing needs of the special needs population directly with the Emergency Housing Grant program. Eligibility for such grants are limited to those 62 and older with a certified disability or long term medical condition. The City works with the faith based community and with UAB West to connect with those in need. The CIty also conducts public meetings to inform the public of the availabilty of programs to help those in need. The Foundry Ministries specializes in meeting the needs of those suffering from and recovering from drug addiction.

Discuss the size and characteristics of the population with HIV/AIDS and their families within the Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area:

Aids Alabama, a long time HOPWA recipient devoted to helping people with HIV/AIDS, related the following statistics relative to the population with AIDs from the Alabama Department of Public Health.. There are no specific statistics for the City of Bessemer relative to the HIV/AIDS population. However, Bessemer is located in Jefferson County and the following statistics are from Jefferson County. Jefferson

County has one of the largest populations of persons with HIV/AIDS in the United States.There are 547,191 people in Jefferson County. There are 3,244 verified cases of HIV/AIDS in Jefferson County. The HIV/AIDS incidence rate per 100,000 in Jefferson County is 529.9. The population of Bessemer is 27,139. (.005299 x 27,139= 160.89). Using the rate per 100,000 in Jefferson County as a baseline the incidence of HIV AIDS in Bessemer should be 160.89 persons.

Discussion:

The City does not receive HOPWA funds and had no specific program for HIV/AIDS. However, the Emergency Grant program would apply to those in need because of HIV/AIDS. No statistics are available specifically for Bessemer. However, AIDS Alabama is a state wide organization that works to meet the housing and other needs of those with HIV/AIDS and to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS. The Foundry is a local organization that works with many who qualify for “Special Needs:

The Foundry sponsors a significant Recovery and Re‐Entry Programs: Meals per week: 279,066, Nights of lodging: 93,022, Heath services assistance: 714 individuals, Clothing assistance vouchers: $10,940 worth of merchandise, Social Services(legal, ID, etc) 1,769 individuals, Employment Readiness: 388,835 hours, Rescue for Community, Meals served to low income and homeless ‐ 7,016, Hours of training to community residents‐ 416, Food Boxes Distributed‐ 860, Clothing assistance ‐ , Medical Assistance‐ 1,841 individuals, Transient nights of lodging‐ 780 nights

Individuals in Shelter Care through One Roof‐ 44 individuals in 2014 currently have an open case status.

NA‐50 Non‐Housing Community Development Needs – 91.215 (f)

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Facilities:

The City of Bessemer has a broad need for Public Facility improvements. The City is constructing the City’s first Recreation Center and a new City Hall, both with City funds. The City is committed to continue provide numerous improvements throughout the City related to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and has been in the process of extensive ADA improvements throughout the City since 2009.

Nevertheless, the expense is great and the need is unmet. During the FY2010‐FY2014 Consolidated Plan CDBG funds were used to provide ADA improvements at the Civic Center and Public Library. Streets need paving, municipal buildings need ADA improvements, Parks need extensive improvements while the need for public improvements, at parks, for children with special needs is exceptional. Small neighborhood parks are also needed as is signage and walking trails. The City may receive grant funds for a Rails to Trails project, but funding will be needed for the expected 20% match. The City needs funding to assist in relocating families from an extensive flood plain and converting that flood plain into a greenway or a series of parks. The City has a large historic district and multiple structure of historic importance. Several Structures, such as the Lincoln Theater, one of the last existing unrestored African‐ American theaters existant in the State of Alabama, are important to the City and are in need of Public Improvements to restore building, pave streets, replace sidewalks, etc. The Bessemer Airport is also a City asset that is underutilized. The Bessemer Airport Authority and the Department Of Economic and Community Development are working to devise plans that can make the Airport more effective as an economic development engine while providing much needed services to the public.

How were these needs determined?

Comments from citizens during interviews, Citizen comments during council meetings, the comments of City Council memebers and the Mayor relative to their view of the conditions of the city and their constituents provided a starting point to study the condition of the City. Department Heads throughout the City, including Street and Sanitation, Fire, Police and Parks & recreation indicated the need for public improvements. In addition drive by surveys of housing stock, Parks and other venues by Economic and Community Development staff provided additional data. Studies by Birmingham’s Regional Planning Commission and studies by Auburn Universitie’s School of Architecture worked to identify needs. The City also completed an Urban Renewal Plan that identified the needs of the community in detail.

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Improvements:

Inasmuch as Public Facilities and Public Improvements fall under the same rule relative to the use of CDBG funds, what holds true for Public Facilities holds true for Public Improvements. Please see the narrative above under Public Facilities.

How were these needs determined?

The determination for Public Facilities and Public improvements are one in the same. Comments from citizens during council meetings, the comments of City Council memebers and the Mayor relative to their view of the conditions of the city provided a starting point to study the condition of the City.

Department Heads throughout the City, including Street and Sanitation, Fire, Police and Parks & recreation indicated the need for public improvements. In addition drive by surveys of housing stock, Parks and other venues by Economic and Community Development staff provided additional data.

Studies by Birmingham’s Regional Planning Commission and studies by Auburn University’s School of Architecture worked to identify needs and make suggestions about addressing those needs. The City also completed an Urban Renewal Plan that identified the needs of the community in detail.

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Services:

The City has multiple needs relative to Public Services. For many years the City has provided funding supplemented with CDBG funds to address the educational and job training needs of the City’s youth through a summer program called Camp Bessemer. In addition to CDBG funds the City contributes significant dollars from its general fund. In addition, the City and Public Housing Authority have partnered and plan to continue to partner to hold public wellnes forums for the elderly residents of the Public Housing Authority and other elderly residents of the City. With a large low and low to moderate income population the need for public services for the youth and elderly of the City is great. Given the decreasing size of the Cityt’s entitlement grant, and the 15% limit on Public Services, the impact of any CDBG sponsored Public Service program is limited.

How were these needs determined?

The Public Service projects designed by the City of Bessemer’s Economic and Community Development staff with the approval of the City Council and Mayor, were designed to address major, statistically proveable deficiencies various populations in the City lived with on a daily basis. Camp Bessemer was designed to provide job skills and on the job training for youth, but it was also designed to give youth higher goals and a greater understanding of the possibilities life had to offer. Camp Bessemer is an exercise in creating a solid, inquisitive work force with goals that elevate rather than maintain the status quo. The Bessemer Public Housing Authority and the Department of Economic and Community Development worked together to determine the needs of those in public housing that could be addressed by Public Services.

Housing Market Analysis

MA‐05 Overview

Housing Market Analysis Overview:

Since 2007 the population of the City has decreased from 28,976 to 27,139. The number of occupied housing units increased from 11,805 to 12,576. The composition of the population has

changed from 70.0% black, 29.4% white, and 1.5% other to 75.2% black, 18.7 white, 4.1% hispanic and 2% other. In 2007, of the City’s 11,805 occupied housing units, 7420 (62.9%) were owner occupied and 4385 (37.1%) were renter occupied, while 2136 were unoccupied. In the latest census, of the 12,576 occupied houses, 5555 houses (44.17%) are owner occupied, and 4652 (36.99%) are occupied by renters. There are 2369 unoccupied houses in Bessemer. Clearly the collapse of the economy in 2008 exacted a significant toll on homeownership in the City. Of the houses that are unoccupied as many as 50% are the result of foreclosure. Unfortunately, as many as 50% of the total number of vacant houses are blighted and are candidates for demolition. The City presently averages 120 demolitions a year. It is anticipated that the City’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity has the potential to raise that number significantly. As blight is removed property value will improve. As property values improve the cost of rehabilitation becomes more reasonable relative to the after rehab value of a given property. The age and condition of the housing in the City of Bessemer presents a problem that cannot be adequately addressed given the present assets of the revolving fund. Revolving Loan funds at present projected levels can be expected to provide approximately 35 housing rehabilitation projects over the course of the 2015‐2019 Consolidated Plan. These loans will likely be limited to individual in the low‐to‐moderate income category. This is due to the average cost of $35,000.00 to bring a house to a CODE conforming condition. Persons in the low to extremely low income category do not have adequate income to borrow $35,000.00. Therefore, grants to address pressing medically related needs are the most effective way to reach a large nuber of people and serve those who need help the most. With 34.1% of the population living below the poverty line and a 13% unemployment rate it is difficult for families to meet the monthly payments required by loans. Therefore, economic development is of paramount importance if only to move families from extremely low and low income to low to moderate income. All these factors establish the real world value of houses and the practicality of an effective rehab program to fit market conditions.

MA‐10 Number of Housing Units – 91.210(a)&(b)(2)

Introduction

31.4% of the City of Bessemer households live below the Poverty Line. Approximately 40% of that population own and live in single family housing. The condition of housing, in these specific cases, relates to the owners ability, financially, to maintain own and maintain a given house. As cost rise above 30% of the income of an extremely low income owner the burden to maintain increases exponentially. At the 50% point blight can be the expected result. The typical cost to bring a house into a CODE conforming condition is in excess of $35,000.00 with monthly P&I ranging from $241.00 to $337.00. The added cost of insurance and taxes, along with P&I, places the homeowner whose income is below the poverty line in an untenable position. Therefore, fully one third of the population cannot be assisted through loan programs based on market conditions. Of course, those in the extremely low income and low income category can be assisted with grants, but those grants are directed to the elimination of problems related to a disability or long‐term medical condition rather than the elimination of CODE violations. The situation relative to the remainer of the population can be delt with by CDBG Housing Rehabilitation loans, assuming a given house can be brought to CODE, without exceeding program cost limits, but the CDBG fund allocation is not adequate to adderss even 50% of the needs of the community.

All residential properties by number of units

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Unit Size by Tenure

Table 27 – Residential Properties by Unit Number

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Table 28 – Unit Size by Tenure

Describe the number and targeting (income level/type of family served) of units assisted with federal, state, and local programs.

The 2015‐2019 Consolidated Plan anticipates the the significant rehabilitation of 35 houses and the minor rehabilitaion of 179 houses through the Emergency Grant program given present income projections. All participants must be at or below low to moderate income levels for loan and grant programs. The loan program anticipates eligibility will be limited to those at 80% of median income. The grant program anticipates that most successful applicants will have income levels below 50% of median for the area.

Provide an assessment of units expected to be lost from the affordable housing inventory for any reason, such as expiration of Section 8 contracts.

The affordable housing inventory decreases as houses fall into disrepair and fail to meet the housing code. There are no projects intended to eliminate housing other than Clearance programs designed to eliminate housing deteriorated beyond the point of reasonable repair. Therefore, no change is expected in a negative sense.

Does the availability of housing units meet the needs of the population?

The availability of CODE conforming, affordable housing in Bessemer does not meet the housing needs of the population. Adequate housing stock exists, but the condition of those houses is generally substandard and the cost to buy and repair is usually above 30% of income for many applicants. Loans are generally made to homeowners who do not have mortgages on their property.

Describe the need for specific types of housing:

Housing that meets or can meet the specifications of the Americans With Disabilities Act are in short supply. There is a large elderly population and accessibility is a strong need. Small houses on level lots that are energy efficient are ideal for many.

Discussion

WIth over 1300 forclosures and abandoned, blighted houses in excess of 1000, according to dashboard surveys, the blight in the Bessemer community negatively effects property values. One area in a flood zone has close to 300 houses in substandard condition. The City hopes to impact blight significantly with its ongoing, locally funded clearance program and through its partnership with Habitat for Humanity. In addition the Bessemer Public Housing Authority os improving two large multi‐family facilities employing a RAD grant. The City, The Bessemer Public Housing Authority and Jefferson County have partnered to apply for a Disaster Resiliency grant to build 37 sigle family, detached houses.

MA‐15 Housing Market Analysis: Cost of Housing ‐ 91.210(a)

Introduction

The most recent Census data indicates there are 12,576 housing units in Bessemer. Of those housing units 5555 or 44% are owner occupied and 37% are renter occupied. The remaining 19% of houses that could be occupied are vacant. The median house value in Bessemer is $88,500.00. The following section will describe the cost of housing, fair market rents, housing trends, general affordability and housing inventory in Bessemer. It should be noted that the Rehabiliation Loan Program, funded from the Housing Revolving Loan Fund, has a maximum loan amount of $40,000.00 and the Emergency Grant program is generally limited to $5,000.00. The Rehabilitation Loan Program requires houses to be brought to a CODE conforming condition. Based on the projected after rehabilitation value of homes relative to the actual cost of rehabilitation it is not unusual for loans to be denied because Loan to Value Ratios would exceed 100%. While the CIty desirs to preserve and improve its existing housing stock it is often not practical. The City is investigating the possibility of working with non‐profits like Habitat for Humanity to determine if Reconstruction could become a solid way forward.

Cost of Housing

Table 29 – Cost of Housing

Data Source:         2000 Census (Base Year), 2007‐2011 ACS (Most Recent Year)

Table 30 ‐ Rent Paid

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Housing Affordability

Data Source:    2007‐2011 CHAS

Monthly Rent

Table 31 – Housing Affordability

Data Source Comments:

Table 32 – Monthly Rent

Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels?

No. The availability of housing is not adequate at all levels due to the deteriorated,

substandard condition of existing housing and the ability of those who need housing to afford it. It should be noted that there is a large universe of individuals interested in homes, but few who are bankable. This is especially try at the extremely low and low income levels. The City has partnered with the United Way of Central Alabama to assist citizens with credit counseling to set an applicant on a course that can allow them to successfully apply for both private and government mortgage and rehabilitation funding. The City also works with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority under their Housing Transition program which takes public housing residents through training to become homeowners. Nevertheless, demand for standard housing exceeds supply at this time.

How is affordability of housing likely to change considering changes to home values and/or rents?

The economic crash of 2008 did effectively lower the value of housing in Bessemer, but it also effectively lowered the overall financial status of the population. With a poverty rate of 34.1% and a large segment of the population at or below the low to moderate income level it does not appear that affordability will improve in any projected time frame. The City has an active program designed to assist first time home buyers, but funds are too limited to impact the overall trend in the City at large. Lower home can only cause change in the market if it is the only change in the market. Of course, the market consists of supply and demand. Demand can increase if the financial ability to purchase stays the same while prices go down or if prices stay the same and the financial ability to buy increases. Unfortunately, the economic crash of 2008 and the extremely long and slow recovery have had little effect on affordability.

The economic crash of 2008 did effectively lower the value of housing in Bessemer, but it also effectively lowered the overall financial status of the population. With a poverty rate of 34.1% and a large segment of the population at or below the low to moderate income level it does not appear that affordability will improve in any projected time frame. The City has an active program designed to assist first time home buyers, but funds are too limited to impact the overall trend in the City at large. Lower home can only cause change in the market if it is the only change in the market. Of course, the market consists of supply and demand. Demand can increase if the financial ability to purchase stays the same while prices go down or if prices stay the same and the financial ability to buy increases. Unfortunately, the economic crash of 2008 and the extremely long and slow recovery have had little effect on affordability.

How do HOME rents / Fair Market Rent compare to Area Median Rent? How might this impact your strategy to produce or preserve affordable housing?

The City of Bessemer does not receive HOME funds. The median rent in Bessemer, according to US City Facts, is $390.00. The fair market rent for a 1 BR apartment is $545.00 for a 1 bedroom unit and $652.00 for a 2 bedroom unit. The City of Bessemer’s CDBG Program does not address rental units. The Bessemer Public Housing Authority manages several housing communities with rental rates based on income defined by Section 8 housing limits.

Discussion

MA‐20 Housing Market Analysis: Condition of Housing – 91.210(a)

Introduction

Based on a review of the 2011‐2013 American Community Survey, the supply of housing units within the City of Bessemer is comprised of primarily single‐family, detached structures (79.3%). Multi‐Family housing (3 or 4 units) comprises the next highest percentage at 20.7%. The median value of owner occupied housing in the City of Bessemer is $88,500.00. The City has carried out an aggressive Clearance program funded in part by CDBG funds and City General Funds, to remove blight, increase property value, lower insurance rates for homeowners and eliminate public safety hazards. The City recently partnered with Habitat for Humanity to receive “Hardest‐Hit” funding that will serve to eliminate many more blighted housing units. USA City Facts indicates the typical house in Bessemer has 6 rooms.

Median owner costs are $1,057.00. At any given time only 1.2% of all housing is for sale. The removal of blighted housing and proper maintenance of vacant lots will positively effect property values.

Definitions

The definition of substandard housing used by the City of Bessemer is housing that does not meet International Housing CODE of 2005 standards. That is, substandard housing poses a risk to the health, or is dangerous to the health, safety or general well‐being of its occupants or its neighbors and public. Generally, housing that is less than 50% deteriorated is considered a possible candidate for rehabilitation. The City uses the International Housing Code of 2005 as adopted in 2008.

The City of Bessemer defines “Standard Housing” as housing that conforms to the International Property Maintenance CODE.

Condition of Units

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Table 33 ‐ Condition of Units

Year Unit Built

Table 34 – Year Unit Built

Data Source:    2007‐2011 CHAS

Risk of Lead‐Based Paint Hazard

Table 35 – Risk of Lead‐Based Paint

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS (Total Units) 2007‐2011 CHAS (Units with Children present)

Vacant Units

Table 36 ‐ Vacant Units

Alternate Data Source Name:

Vacant Houses

Data Source Comments:

Need for Owner and Rental Rehabilitation

The need for housing rehabilitation is exceptionally high. All CDBG programs related to rehabilitation are limited to owner occupied, single family housing. More than 70% of the City’s housing was constructed before 1979. The City maintains a housing assistance application list in excess of 200 applications. All such houses are substandard and fail to meet the CODE in some fashion. Given the age of the housing in Bessemer Lead Based Paint is a critical concern. Lead and the large inventory of substandard housing in Bessemer point to an exceptional need for rehabilitation services. According to surveys by the City’s CODE inspectors conservatively estimate that there are in excess of 200 vacant houses in the City and no

more than 50% of those are candidates for rehabilitation. The need for rehabilitation easily exceeds the available resources of the City’s CDBG program.

Estimated Number of Housing Units Occupied by Low or Moderate Income Families with LBP Hazards

There were 10,814 occupied housing units in Bessemer in 2013 according to the American Fact Finder. 78% of those units were built before 1979. Therefore 8434 houses in Bessemer are subject to lead based paint. It is reasonable to assume that those at or under the low to moderate income level would have a tendencey to occupy older houses based on expense. Therefore, it is likely that more than 78% of low to moderate income individuals live in houses with lead based paint.

Discussion

With the incidence of lead based paint in the City at or above 78%, it is City policy to test every home where rehabilitation might disturb a painted surface, or in cases where rehabilitation costs exceded

$5,000.00. It is also City policy to abate lead based paint rather than conduct interim controls. The City of Bessemer has developed an ongoing Clearance program using City funds and has partnered with Habitat for Humanity to utilize Hardest Hit grant funds to increase the effectiveness of the process.

Blight removal should increase property values and quality of life in the City.

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 53

MA‐25 Public and Assisted Housing – 91.210(b)

Introduction

The Mission of the Housing Authority of the City of Bessemer is to increase the supply of, and maintain existing affordable rental housing; to encourage homeownership for low‐income households and to promote training, educational opportunities and asset independence in a way that improves the health and civic and community vitality of Bessemer, Alabama.

Totals Number of Units

Data Source:    PIC (PIH Information Center)

Table 37 – Total Number of Units by Program Type

Describe the supply of public housing developments:

Describe the number and physical condition of public housing units in the jurisdiction, including those that are participating in an approved Public Housing Agency Plan:

<p style=”margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; line‐height: normal;”><span style=”mso‐fareast‐font‐family: ‘Times New Roman’; mso‐ascii‐font‐family: Calibri; mso‐hansi‐font‐family: Calibri; mso‐bidi‐font‐family: ‘Times New Roman’;”><font face=”Calibri” size=”3″>The Housing Authority of the

City of Bessemer (BHA) manages 1,070 public housing rental units at seven (7) AMPS and administers 473 Section 8 vouchers and 70 VASH vouchers. In addition, BHA manages one (1) bond financed 120 unit Senior Complex and a new 198 unit RAD Multifamily. The first of the developments was built in 1976 and the last was built in 1998.</font></span></p>

Consolidated Plan                                          BESSEMER                                                                 55

Public Housing Condition

Table 38 ‐ Public Housing Condition

Describe the restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units in the jurisdiction:

The Bessemer Public Housing Authority began remodeling two major complexes on 8/27/15

with $8,708,663.00 in improvements, funded througha a RAD grant. Another project involving some 37 single family houses will begin construction soon based on the date funding is received.

Describe the public housing agency’s strategy for improving the living environment of low‐ and moderate‐income families residing in public housing:

In order to address the shortage of Public Housing the PHA will maximize the number of affordable units available to the PHA within its current resources by: employing maintenance and management policies to minimize the number of public housing units off‐line Reducing turnover time for vacated public housing units Seeking replacement of public housing units lost to the inventory through mixed finance development. Participating in Consolidated Plan development process to ensure coordination with broader community strategies. The PHA shall increase the number of affordable housing units by: Applying for additional section 8 vouchers should they become available Leveraging affordable housing resources in the community through the creation of mixed‐finance housing. Applying for any HUD affordable Housing Demonstrations

Discussion:

The PHA has been largely successful in meeting the objectives mentioned in its 2010 Action Plan. The PHA has built a solid partnership with the City of Bessemer’s Department of Economic and Community Development and other area agencies.It implemented voucher homeownership programs, converted public housing to vouchers and implemented other home ownership programs. The PHA

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MA‐30 Homeless Facilities and Services – 91.210(c)

Introduction

The City of Bessemer does not receive ESG funds and does not direct CDBG funds to the direct benefit of the homeless. However, the Continuum of Care through the One Roof organization works throughout Jefferson County to address the needs of the homeless. The Foundry, a service ministry directed toward the problems associated with drug addiction also works to prevent homelessnes and to reintegrate persons into society.

Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households

Data Source Comments:

Table 39 ‐ Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households

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Describe mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the extent those services are use to complement services targeted to homeless persons

The Foundry provides the following:

Recovery and Re‐Entry Programs |

Meals per week: 279,066

Nights of lodging: 93,022

Heath services assistance: 714 individuals

Clothing assistance vouchers: $10,940 worth of merchandise

The Foundry provides the folowing related services: Social Services(legal, ID, etc) 1,769 individuals, Employment Readiness: 388,835 hours

Rescue for Community:Meals served to low income and homeless ‐ 7,016, Hours of training to community residents‐ 416, Food Boxes Distributed‐ 860, Medical Assistance‐ 1,841 individuals, Transient nights of lodging‐ 780 nights

List and describe services and facilities that meet the needs of homeless persons, particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth. If the services and facilities are listed on screen SP‐40 Institutional Delivery Structure or screen MA‐35 Special Needs Facilities and Services, describe how these facilities and services specifically address the needs of these populations.

The Continuum of Care directed by “One Roof” coordinates the efforts of a number of groups that help the homeless throughout jefferson county. Those organizations include:

MA‐35 Special Needs Facilities and Services – 91.210(d)

Introduction

The City of Bessemer does not receive CDBG funding adequate to address special needs facilities. The City can and does utilize Public Services funding to reach youth through job training and education.

Including the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, developmental), persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, public housing residents and any other categories the jurisdiction may specify, and describe their supportive housing needs

The City has an active program to remove barriers to the disabled specified in the Americans WIth Disability act. The City also uses CDBG funds to address issues associate with the Americans with Disabilities act.

Describe programs for ensuring that persons returning from mental and physical health institutions receive appropriate supportive housing

UAB Medical West works with the City to identify candidates for Emergency Housing Repair Grants. Emergency Grants are available to disabled persons and elderly persons.

Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one‐year goals. 91.315(e)

The City will continue to utilize the Emergency Grant program to provide structural alterations that allow the diabled to continue living in their homes.

For entitlement/consortia grantees: Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one‐year goals. (91.220(2))

The City utilizes its Emergency Housing Repair Grant program to provide services to homeowners who have needs related to disabilities and long term medical conditions. The Emergency Housing Grant can be used for ADA compliance, Accessibility and other expenses associated with the installation of equipemt related to health care needs.

MA‐40 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.210(e)

Negative Effects of Public Policies on Affordable Housing and Residential Investment

There are no local or state level policies negatively impacting affordable housing and residential development. The City of Bessemer follows standard housing CODES, and the guidelines of the County Health Department relative to residential housing. Fire protection is maintained at the highest possible level as is police protection. As a result insurance rates are reasonable. Property tax rates are among the lowest in the country.

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MA‐45 Non‐Housing Community Development Assets – 91.215 (f)

Introduction

The City of Bessemer is a Community that, in the not too distant past, centered its economic on heavy industry with companies like Railroad Car manufacturer Pullman Standard. In the 1980’s the industrial base was severely diminished, including Pullman Standard which went out of business. Today the City has recovered from many of those loses and the economy is more diverse. Large industrial plants like US Pipe and Foundry’ Ductile Iron Pipe Plant and Amsted Rail have located in the community as have large retail developments like the Tannehill Promenade, Distribution Centers like Dollar General and a strong presence by the automotive retail industry. UAB West hospital is one of the communities largest employers. The workforce continues to be capable in the sector of heavy industry, but like available businesses has become more diverse.

Economic Development Market Analysis Business Activity

Table 40 ‐ Business Activity

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS (Workers), 2011 Longitudinal Employer‐Household Dynamics (Jobs)

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Labor Force

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Table 41 ‐ Labor Force

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Travel Time

Table 42 – Occupations by Sector

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Education:

Table 43 ‐ Travel Time

Educational Attainment by Employment Status (Population 16 and Older)

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Table 44 ‐ Educational Attainment by Employment Status

Educational Attainment by Age

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Table 45 ‐ Educational Attainment by Age

Educational Attainment – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months

Data Source:    2007‐2011 ACS

Table 46 – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months

Based on the Business Activity table above, what are the major employment sectors within your jurisdiction?

Health Care, Inbdustrial Manufacturing, Arts, Entertainment and Accomodations, Retail Trade, Warehousing & Distribution and Transportation and Education are major employment sectors in the City

of Bessemer. The goverment sector is also a large employer including the Alabama Department of Human Resources which is located in Bessemer.

Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community:

The community continues to need a workforce that is capable in the industrial sector, but it also needs workers in the technological and medical sectors. As technology improves and the infrastructure of business diversifies the demand for a more educated and diverse workforce has followed. There is a large need for high school graduates to work in warehousing facilities.

Describe any major changes that may have an economic impact, such as planned local or regional public or private sector investments or initiatives that have affected or may affect job and business growth opportunities during the planning period. Describe any needs for workforce development, business support or infrastructure these changes may create.

The economic downturn in 2008 effected industrial employment and limited investment in new business across the board. In recent years the City has been successful in attracting large employers like Dollar General, Amsted rail, the Colonial Promenade. The Dollar General Location is a 1,000,000 square foot warehouse that expects to eventually employ close to 1000 people. The Colonial Promenade is a

$100,000,000.00 retail development and Amsted Rail is a manufacturing facility for train car suspensions and parts that will provide a large number of high paying jobs. Workforce development is of paramount importance to employers. In many cases, specifically Amstead Rail, the State of Alabama assisted in work force training to incentivize industry.

How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment opportunities in the jurisdiction?

The skills and education level of the workforce correspond well to available employment in many areas. Employers like Dollar General say the pool of qualified workers fit their needs well. However, the universe of available workers with college degrees is limited in relation to the more technologically demanding jobs coming online. Retail positions are a good match to many high school graduates as are warehousing jobs. The Promenade, along with numerous other retail developments and Dollar General are good examples of natural fits for the Bessemer workforce.

Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce Investment Boards, community colleges and other organizations. Describe how these efforts will support the jurisdiction’s Consolidated Plan.

The State of Alabama actively participates in workforce training for a variety of more technical industries. The State conducted workforce training for Amsted Rail as part of an incentive package to

attract the major rail suspension manufacturer to the City. Lawson State Community College is active in seeking to design and provide workforce training that fits local and regional needs.

Does your jurisdiction participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)?

No

If so, what economic development initiatives are you undertaking that may be coordinated with the Consolidated Plan? If not, describe other local/regional plans or initiatives that impact economic growth.

The City offers tax incentives for new business and business expansion. The City has participated in structuring Bond funding to attract business and goverment offices like the Alabama Department Of Human Resources. The City maintains an Economic Development Revolving Loan fund to attract new business and encouage the expansion of existing business with the primary goal of creating jobs for low to moderate income persons.

Discussion

The City of Bessemer continually works to bring in new business and help existing business expand. The City employs programs for economic development that take advantage of CDBG funding for job creation, State assistance for job training and many other important areas related to economic development. The City has historically worked with new and existing businesses to provide incentives when warranted. The process of economic development is a fluid, competitive one. The City of Bessemer has been on the forefront of economic development in Jefferson County for the last few years and should maintain that position if it is successful in landing pending economic development projects. The City works with the State of Alabama’s Department of Commerce, the Birmingham Business Alliance, the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham, consultants and developers to attract as many businesses as possible.

MA‐50 Needs and Market Analysis Discussion

Are there areas where households with multiple housing problems are concentrated? (include a definition of “concentration”)

Households with multiple housing problems exist throughout the City in significant numbers. One area of the City known as the Pipe Shop has a heavy concentration of non‐CODE conforming housing.

However, the same are is in a 100 year flood plain. Flooding is consistent and almost every house in the area has signifigant water damage. Houses in this area are not practical to rehabilitate with CDBG funds because of associated flood insurance requirements and the low after rehab value of each house. It is most accurate to say that City housing programs must be designed to address housing rehabilitation on a City Wide basis. Concentartion of suibstandard housing outside the flood zone are limited. However, the housing occupied by the 34.1% of Bessemer residents who live below the poverty line are subject to multiple problems. It is this pervasive spread of housing with exceptional problems that causes the City to refrain from targeting specific areas.

Are there any areas in the jurisdiction where racial or ethnic minorities or low‐income families are concentrated? (include a definition of “concentration”)

The population spread throughout Bessemer is generally diverse. However, there are limited areas of the City where a specific racial group may predominate. There is a large flood zone on the north side of the City that exibits concentrations of ethnic minorities.

What are the characteristics of the market in these areas/neighborhoods?

Market characteristics are similar throughout the City with the exception of flood zones. In these areas the condition of housing is worse based on flood damage. In addition, significant rehabilitation in flood zones in not practical due to property value restrictions flooding causes. These neighborhoods are trapped by the conditions brought about by flooding. Permanent Relocation would seem to be the only viable, lonkg term objective. These neighborhoods consist of a variety of housing types including single family homeowner units, single family rental units, multi‐family rental units, duplex rental units, vacant housing, and dilapidated housing. While the majority of the housing in these areas are homeowner occupied, there is a significant number of rental units as well. Local realtors have indicated that there are many current renters who wish to become homeowners but they do not have money for a down payment on a home purchase and/or have severe credit problems that prevent them from successfully obtaining a home loan. In some cases people can afford the monthly mortgage and utilities, but must turn to relatives for assistance with down payment and closing costs. For those who do not have the benefit of relatives or friends who can assist them, they must remain renters without much hope of becoming homeowners. The City continues to work to design programs that can assist those with the ability to become homeowners through down payment assistance and other similar programs.

Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods?

Every area of the City has assets that are important. Insofar as areas in the flood zone the overiding factor is the impact of the flood zone’s existence on property values and property condition. Many of the citizens who live in these areas, along with their neighborhood and political leaders, are very active in trying to make where they live the best it can be.

Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas?

It is generally believed that the best process for areas in the flood zone would be to relocated families from the flood zone and to then convert the flood zone to a greenway or a park. The property is well situated to function well as a greenway and the families living in the flood zone would benefit greatly by living in areas that did not have the disadvantages associated with the flood zone.

Strategic Plan

SP‐05 Overview

Strategic Plan Overview

The Community Developments Objectives are to enhance neighborhood stability, to utilize CDBG funds for physical improvement, Historic Rehabilitation, Housing Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, to encourage Business and Job development, to provide educational opportunities, to enhance access to Park & Recreation facilities, to provide educational opportunities through improved Public Services and to create increased housing production and home ownership for families at all income levels. The projected use of funds stated herein has been developed to give maximum priority to activities which will benefit low and moderate families or aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight. In addition, the projected use of funds is consistent with the City’s established strategy of stabilizing the City and reversing negative trends associated with urban decay and blight. The City’s strategy for community development has three basic goals: 1:To encourage neighborhood stability through physical improvement and housing rehabilitation: 2) improve the economic life to the City by encouraging business development and jobs, and 3) provide increased production and home ownership for families at all income levels. The City intends to continue its efforts to obtain available federal, state, local, and private funding, to provide for community wide improvements in each of the areas outline above in as many communities and neighborhoods as funding permits.The FY2015 Action Plan and 2FY015‐FY2019 Consolidated Plan provides detailed sources and uses of funds and state the activities the City will be undertake. Activities include; Housing Programs, Public Services, Parks and Recreation, Public Improvements and Economic Development.

SP‐10 Geographic Priorities – 91.215 (a)(1)

Geographic Area

Table 47 ‐ Geographic Priority Areas

General Allocation Priorities

Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdiction (or within the EMSA for HOPWA)

CDBG funds are allocated on a City‐Wide basis. All housing program eligibility is based on the income eligibity of the homeowner. Economic Development Loans are based on job creation. Public Services and Public Facilities are also City‐Wide by design.

SP‐25 Priority Needs ‐ 91.215(a)(2)

Priority Needs

Table 48 – Priority Needs Summary

Narrative (Optional)

All CDBG programs administered by the City of Bessemer are done so on a City ‐Wide basis. There is no geographic targeting.

SP‐30 Influence of Market Conditions – 91.215 (b)

Influence of Market Conditions

Table 49 – Influence of Market Conditions

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SP‐35 Anticipated Resources ‐ 91.215(a)(4), 91.220(c)(1,2)

Introduction

The City of Bessemer’s Economic and Community Development Department manages the CDBG Entitlement grant and a Revolving Loan fund for Housing and for Economic Development. The City recently partnered with Habitat for Humanity to implement a signifigant blight removal program that, unlike standard Clearance programs, will provide buildable lots for City housing programs. The City has also taken part in the application process for a Disaster Resiliency grant, along with Jefferson County, which would provide significant home ownership opportunities for Bessemer’s citizens. The City will close out its involvement with the NSP program this summer. The City is also working with FEMA to ascertain the possibility of a significant permanent relocation program for properties in a problematic flood plain. CDBG Entitlement grants cuts in recent years have resulted in staff reductions and in the refocusing of housing programs involving grants for emergency medical issues, but the use of revolving funds in concert with the partnership with Habitat for Humanity offer the opportunity to leverage funds and maintain services at a good level.

Anticipated Resources