Government

FY2018 CDBG Action Plan

December 7, 2018

Executive Summary

AP-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). An Annual Action Plan must also be prepared for each year of the Consolidated Plan. The following reflects a Substantial Amendment to an existing FY2018 Action Plan, which outlines the City’s Economic Development and Community Development needs and strategies relative to CDBG entitlement funds for FY2018 of

   $570,416.00, and projected Program Income of $275,332.00. This Substantial Amendment reflects a grant reduction of $35,516.11 to compensate for failure to meet the timeliness test relative to the expenditure of Revolving Funds and a further reduction of $147.084.89 to repay CDBG Activity #80 from FY1998 that was determined not to meet a National Objective. After the aforementioned reductions the total CDBG Entitlement Grant amount for FY2018 will be $387,815.00. Projected Program Income is unchanged. Copies of the City’s 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development Programs, and FY2018 Action Plan will be available for inspection in the City’s Community Development Department, 1700 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 FY2018 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 FY2018 Action Plan and Consolidated Plan, the City of Bessemer’s Economic and Community Development Department worked 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. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan

   This could be a restatement of items or a table listed elsewhere in the plan or a reference to another location. It may also contain any essential items from the housing and homeless needs assessment, the housing market analysis or the strategic plan.

   The City’s Community Development Objectives include the utilization of CDBG funds for: 1) Public Facilities, 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 and Grants to encourage business development, slum and blight removal and job creation. 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 improve neighborhood 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

   This is an evaluation of past performance that helped lead the grantee to choose its goals or projects.

   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 FY2015, FY2016 and FY2017 Action Plans 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 three programs: The Deferred Loan program, the Rehabilitation 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. The necessity of repaying a large Section 108 Loan greatly impacted the availability of CDBG funds for housing programs in FY2015, and FY2016. Thankfully, that loan did not impact FY2017. The Emergency Grant program met the needs of many citizens and a back log of applicants exists relative to the funds available. The City utilized significant un-programmed funds from prior years to pay most of the remaining debt from a $4,000,000.00 Section 108 loan in FY2015 and paid that loan off with $22,000.00 in CDBG Entitlement funds in FY2016. The payoff of this Section 108 note freed over $300,000.00 in CDBG Entitlement Funds the City had been forced to commit from its CDBG grant each year since 2009. With the elimination of the Section 108 Loan as a major expense, using un-

   programmed funds from prior years, more CDBG funds will be targeted to the Emergency Grant program. The City did not utilize CDBG funds during FY2015, FY2016 or FY2017 for Clearance. However, the City provided $250,000.00 in General funding for clearance activities in both fiscal years. The City was successful in the utilization of both a Buy/Rehab/Sell and Rehabilitation/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 continue to focus on the Rehabilitation Loan program for significant rehab needs and Emergency Grants for medically related repairs. The City administered an Economic Development/Job Creation program during the period of the FY2015, FY2016 and FY2017 Action Plans. The primary goal of Economic Development Loans is job creation. The City ran a successful, ongoing summer youth program called Camp Bessemer that was funded jointly from General Funds and CDBG Public Service funds. The City plans to continue this program throughout the period of the Consolidated Plan. The City has been successful in many Public Facility projects.

4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process

   Summary from citizen participation section of plan.

   The City of Bessemer has undertaken, throughout the development of its FY2018 Action Plan and 2015- 2019 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 FY2018 Action Plan, the City held three public hearings for the Citizens of Bessemer. The purpose of the hearings was to obtain comments and proposals for the use of the City’s projected FY2018 Consolidated Formula Allocation and to obtain the 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 FY2018 Action Plan. This substantial Amendment was advertised for 30 days and the comments of citizens was solicited in that advertising.

5. Summary of public comments

   This could be a brief narrative summary or reference an attached document from the Citizen Participation section of the Con Plan.

   Public comments relative to the FY2018 Action Plan included support for Park improvements and support for matching funds to support transportation studies that could lead to the construction of a new transportation hub in the downtown area. Public Facilities projects for the paving of streets was also advocated. There was also support for a large, annual Public Facilities and Park projects in each City neighborhood. It was advocated that the City undertake one major project per year per Council District

   rather than several smaller projects scattered over all seven Council Districts. There were favorable comments relative to efforts to remove slum and blight in the National Historic District and support for activities that would revitalize downtown Bessemer. Economic Development loans and grants were also discussed, as was Clearance. No public comments were received relative to this Substantial Amendment.

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

   No views or comments were rejected. All comments were considered for present and future Action Plans.

7. Summary

The City of Bessemer, over the course of FY2018 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. 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.

PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies – 91.200(b)

1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan

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

Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative (optional)

The City of Bessemer’s Department of Economic and Community Development prepared this Action 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 development 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. It is believed this Action Plan represents a broad and comprehensive course of action that can address the housing, economic developemnt and general well being of the citizens of Bessemer.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information

City of Bessemer Department of Economic and Community Development, 1700 3rd. Ave. North, Bessemer, AL 35020. Forrest R. Davis-Director (fdavis@bessemeral.org), Abraham Ward-Principal Housing Specialist (award@bessemeral.org). Phone: 205-424-4060, FAX: 205-426-8374.

AP-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 FY2018 Action 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 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 members 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(l))

   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 bringing more and better housing services and opportunities to the citizens 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 has partnered with the Bessemer Public Housing Authority to provide educational opportunities 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 has worked 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. To date

   approximately 300 residents of the City of Bessemer have been able to take advantage of the Weatherization Program. The Economic & Community Development Department works with the Bessemer Fire Department to identify citizens in need os assistance. The City also works with the Veteran’s Administration to develop seminar’s for employment and housing.

   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 approximately 35 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 a sub-grantee to assist in administering those funds. The City also hopes to utilize referrals from One Roof to identify persons that may be eligible for CDBG housing programs.

   Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction’s area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards for and evaluate outcomes of projects and activities assisted by ESG funds, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the operation and 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 identified approximately 35 homeless persons within the City of Bessemer in 2017. A number that seems to remain stable also the individuals change. Of those persons, many are members of 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 sub-grantee to assist in administering those funds. The City has consulted with One Roof to determine the number 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 jurisdiction’s 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

Specialized Mental Health Facilities, Foster Care and Corrections programs were not consulted. However, One Roof and the Foundry address all aspects of Homelessness and it is believed they have the programs, knowledge and expertise to advise on homelessness in a universal sense.

UAB West was consulted and they do provide information to the City relative to Families, the Disabled and Youth that the City can assist through

housing programs that can mitigate homelessness. It is believed that the organizations that were and are consulted provide adequate assistance relative to the CDBG program.

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

Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts

Narrative (optional)

AP-12 Participation – 91.105, 91.200(c)

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 26th, March 27th and March 29th of 2018, to allow citizens to provide input relative to the Action Plan for FY2018. 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. The SUbstantial AMendment to the Action Plan was advertised in local newspapers for 30 days beginning on December 16th, 2018.

Citizen Participation Outreach

Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach

Expected Resources

AP-15 Expected Resources – 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.

Anticipated Resources

Table 5 – Expected Resources – Priority Table

Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how

matching requirements will be satisfied

The City has committed $250,000.00 annualy to combine with CDBG funding in FY2018 and FY2019 for Clearance. CDBG funds totaling

$100,000.00 have been specified in this Action Plan for Clearance projects that are not in the 100 year flood plain.

If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan

No publically owned land has been designated for use in the FY 2018 Action Plan.

Discussion

With entitlement cuts since the 2015 Consolidated plan was completed the City of Bessemer’s CDBG program has become focused on meeting the needs of as many people as possible through the Emergency Grant program. The City recently agreed to partner with UAB West relative to the Emergency Grant program. UAB West will provide contact data and referrals for their patients who are program eligible. This should result in a more focused program and a much high annual number The City is actively pursuing of individuals served. The goal is to help those who need the help most. The City is also actively pursuing grant funds through the Birmingham Regional Planning Commission for funds to continue to develop a rails-to-trails project that will interface with the City’s new Recreation Center.

Annual Goals and Objectives

AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives

Goals Summary Information

Table 6 – Goals Summary

Goal Descriptions

Projects

AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d)

Introduction

The City of Bessemer employs a comprehensive housing program. In addition to housing the City has an Economic Development Loan program funded through a CDBG related Revolving Loan Fund. The City will fund Clearance activities outside flood zones with CDBG funds for the first time in several years and a Transit Study is anticipated.

Projects

Table 7 – Project Information

Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs

Each of the listed projects meets a high priority need within the Bessemer community. Limited funding prevents specific projects directed to the needs of the homeless, but the City is working to meet those needs through various partnerships and the assistance of the Continuum of Care.

AP-38 Project Summary

Project Summary Information

AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f)

Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed

All CDBG programs of the City of Bessemer are designed to serve the City as a whole. The City, as a whole, qualifies relative to low-mod service based on the income levels of the citizens of Bessemer.

Over 70% of the City’s population falls below the low-to-moderate income level with over 50% in the very low income category. All areas of the City are addressed because all areas are populated by those at or below the low-to-moderate income level. The Historic Facade Grant program is designed to impact the National Historic District, but it also applies to any structure in the City listed on the National Historic Register.

Geographic Distribution

Table 8 – Geographic Distribution

Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically

The need for programs that comport with the National Objective of the Community Development Block Grant program, throughout the City of Bessemer, are great. The City directs most of its funding toward the elderly and disabled and seeks to help those most in need of help. Therefore, the City has designed its program on a City Wide basis.

Discussion

All projects are City Wide.

Affordable Housing

AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g)

Introduction

The City has a comprehensive housing program design. The only limit to the program relative to service to the citizens of Bessemer is funding. Funding for housing programs is broken down into two sources. CDBG Entitlement funds are used for the Emergency Housing Repair Grant program and Revolving Loan funds are used for projects involving loans for Housing Rehabilitation.

Table 9 – One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement

Table 10 – One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type

Discussion

Emergency Housing Repair Grants are designed to facilitate housing repairs related to the disability or medical condition of the owner. They may also be used to address health and safety related repairs. Housing Rehabilitation loans are a broad category of programs designed to bring houses to a CODE conforming condition within a structure that is affordable for low to moderate income persons. Please see the attached narrative describing all Housing related programs for further details.

AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h)

Introduction

The Housing Authority of the City of Bessemer (BHA) manages 702 public housing rental units at seven

(7) AMPS and administers 475 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. Because of various changes in federal housing policy, it is imperative that BHA engage new comprehensive strategies to accomplish its mission:

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.

Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing

To pursue varying and flexible partnerships and funding opportunities to develop additional affordable housing both for rental and homeownership. Increase efforts to broaden the BHA Commissioners policy making ability through information sharing, training and workshops culminating with the creation of an Annual Board/Staff Strategic Planning Workshops. Develop an enhanced real estate Asset Management model to provide for the direction of capital funds in a rational manner, including the potential submission of the Capital Funds Financing Program (CFFP) application. Focus and expand the current Family Self Sufficiency program with an emphasis on educational advancement, homeownership training, job training and asset independence. Develop additional partnerships with other authorities, municipalities, private entities, financial institutions to leverage funding for the benefit of residents and communities. Explore Section 32 Public Housing Homeownership and other public/private mini neighborhood small ownership opportunities. Develop a lease/purchase program for the purpose of extending low-income homeownership for residents who otherwise are unable to purchase at present, but will be able to in the next few years in conjunction with the City of Bessemer’s Community Development Plans. Increase awareness of the impact of Green Energy Conservation; develop cost saving measures and public/private partnerships to enhance energy efficient developments. Initiate at least one (1) new affordable housing development with an emphasis on creating an affordable, mixed- financed housing community at Hillside; apply for Tax Credits from the Alabama Housing Finance Authority and other private financings. Expand efforts of the Bessemer Housing & Development Corporation, a BHA non-profit instrumentality formed in 2009 to impact neighborhood revitalization throughout the City of Bessemer. Strengthen program operations and fiscal management with the goal being High Performer designation in public housing, and continue to expand all aspects of Voucher

Management included in the 2009 High Performance Rating.

Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership

The Bessemer Public Housing Authority has a program whereby one Public Housing resident sets on the Housing Authoritie’s Board of Directors. The Bessemer Public Housing Authority has also established a program designed to help transition Public Housing residents into homeownership. The program teaches various financial and life skills necessary to become a homeowner. The City of Bessemer cooperates in this effort to assist in the process when possible. The Agency will expand its FSS program to facilitate a Homeownership program for both Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher

residents. The PHA will also develop a Lease Purchase Program for qualified residents and other income eligible.

If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance

NA

Discussion

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.

AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i)

Introduction

The City of Bessemer receives no ESG funding or funding of any type designated to address the needs of the homeless. The City does use CDBG funds through its Emergency Housing Repair Grant Program to conduct repairs that would allow a disabled person to continue living in their home. The City has also offered One Roof the opportunity to manage houses the City has in its inventory as temporary housing for the homeless. The City provides access to its Buy/Rehab/Sell program for CDBG eligible homeless persons. It is hoped One Roof, The Foundry and other institutions can provide referrals in that regard.

Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including

Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs

The City is working with One Roof and The Foundry to establish a working relationship that will facilitate outreach to the homeless. It is estimated that the total number of homeless in the City at any given time is 35. However, a review of the situation relative to each of the 35 presently identified shows all but three are sheltered. This is a tribute to the non-profits and the Continuum of Care. The City has also offered One Roof the opportunity to manage houses the City has in its inventory as temporary housing for the homeless. The City will provide access to its Buy/Rehab/Sell program for CDBG eligible homeless persons. It is hoped One Roof, The Foundry and other institutions can provide referrals in that regard.

Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons

The City has no funding for emergency shelter and transitional housing needs. However, the CIty is working with One Roof and has offered One Roof the opportunity to use houses in the City’s inventory that could be used to provide housing for the homeless on both a temporary and permanent basis. It is hoped One Roof could manage the properties provided by the City for both temporary and permanent housing.

The One Roof organization indicates that there are 35 homeless individuals living in the Bessemer area. However, One Roof has also provided an overview of homelessnes in Jefferson County that is instructive. It is as follows:

The 2018 sheltered homeless numbers are down significantly from the 2017 sheltered homeless numbers, decreasing from an overall 875 sheltered persons to an overall 533 sheltered persons. While this is a recorded decrease of 342 sheltered people, it must be noted that the Continuum also recorded a loss of 554 available beds. The emergency shelter bed count for 2017 was 540 while the 2018 count was only 431. The transitional bed count for 2017 was 304 and dropped to 219 in 2018. The change in ES

and TH beds was a total loss of 194 temporary beds, and while this number is significant, it still does not account for the decrease of 342 sheltered people. The CoC is comfortable that the process of identifying the most vulnerable people through Coordinated Assessment and housing them combined with the availability of Rapid Rehousing dollars, is starting to make true differences in homeless numbers.

Unfortunately, we have not seen corresponding decreases in the unsheltered population. Total number of unsheltered persons identified in 2017 was 217 and we showed only a 3 person decrease in 2018 with the identification of 214 unsheltered persons. This leads us to be concerned about the availability of affordable, low/no barrier housing that is immediately available for our population with the most barriers such as long/ exceedingly long term homelessness, felony backgrounds, mental illness and substance abuse. The changes in the chronic homeless numbers support this. We see that we had 31 chronically homeless people sheltered in 2017 but increased that number to 95 in 2018. We know that we had 92 chronically homeless people unsheltered in 2017 and decreased that number to only 24 in 2018. This shows us that we are able to get our chronically homeless into shelter, but that we are challenged to move them out into permanent housing.

We must increase the availability of affordable, low/no barrier, and immediately available permanent housing. That will both prevent some homelessness and end other homelessness.

We saw the number of Unaccompanied Youth (under 25) go down from 125 in 2017 to just 22 in 2018. We know that with the federal push to identify and serve these young people we have done a better job of finding and counting them. From this dramatic decrease we also know that the Rapid Rehousing programs we have put in place are doing their job and decreasing the number of Unaccompanied Youth on our streets. We did see the number of Domestic Violence victims decrease from 135 in 2017 to 100 in 2018, but we also know that we lost Domestic Violence dedicated housing during this time, so do not believe this is a significant decrease.

Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again

The City provides low cost loans to repair houses under its Buy/Rehab/Sell program that could be used

to assist a qualifying homeless person. The City works with the United Way of Central Alabama to assist those with credit problems and place them in a plan that can lead to home ownership. In addition the existing housing repair programs of the City act to prevent families from becoming homeless.

Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs.

The CDBG funded Emergency Housing Repair Grant program is designed to remove barriers associated with the disabilities and medical condition of homeowners. In many cases housing is not accessible for those with disabilities. Eliminating those accessibility issues can allow a person to live in a house that would not work for them otherwise. The City works with UAB West to address the needs of the disabled or those with long term medical issues, when they are discharged from UAB West. These programs often make it possible for an elderly or disabled person to continue living in their own home.

Discussion

The City would be interested in the possibility of ESG funding and using some of its housing inventory for the homeless if arrangements could be made with the Continuum of Care and local service providers to manage homeless outreach. The City continues to make avaiable the Emergency Housing Grant program. This is a program designed to adress housing needs associated with disibilities, medical conditions and safety.

AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.220(j)

Introduction:

There are no local or state level policies 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.

The City’s Analysis of Impediments for Fair Housing, that was first done for the Consolidated Plan of FY2009 and later updated for the Consolidated Plan of FY2015, points to Transportation, Employment, Blighted Housing and Credit Worthiness as Impediments to Fair Housing. Credit Worthiness is a significant issue that must be delt with in the long term. As such, the City has enlisted the assistance of the United Way of Central Alabama to assist CDBG program applicants to become credit worthy. United Way provides credit reports and credit counseling such that completion of the credit counseling course will result in credit eligibility relative to City CDBG Housing Loan programs. CDBG Housing loans, CDBG Housing Grants, and CDBG Economic Development Loans that are based on Job Creation for low to moderate income persons all serve to make housing more affordable via low interest rates, favorable terms and low down payment requirements. The involvement of Habitat for Humanity, which plans to build ten new houses in Bessemer in FY2018 has, an will continue to improve the opportunity for new housing. The City’s Emergency Grant program allows existing homeowners with disabilities and medical conditions to continue living in their houses. The City has participated in transportation studies with the Regional Panning Commission and anticipates a new transportation study for a transportation HUB will be concluded in FY2018. This study will be facilitated with matching funds from the City of Bessemer and the CDBG program. The City hopes to use these studies to enhance the opportunity for transportation grants.

In addition to the positive effect of housing rehabilitation programs funded by CDBG the City has dedicated $250,000.00 annually from the City’s General Fund for Clearance projects to remove blight, increase property values, lower residential insurance costs and generally improve the quality of life of Bessemer’s citizens. In addition to the $250,000.00 set aside for Clearance by the CIty in FY2018,

$100,000.00 has been set aside in this Action Plan for Clearance.

The Economic Development activities of the the City have provided thousands of new jobs over the course of the periods addressed in the last two Consolidated plans. Projects like the Tannehill Promenade, The US Pipe Plant, Amstead Rail, the Dollar General Distribution facility and numerous others have provided jobs and thus housing opportunities for many. The new Amazon Distribution center will provide up to 3000 new jobs. The Amazon project and all the other projects mentioned were directly impacted by the City of Bessemer which played an intergral role in their decision to locate in

Bessemer.

Actions it planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment

There are no local or state level policies 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. Public policies do not constitute an impediment to fair housing.

Discussion:

Homeownership is more achieavable in the Southeastern United States than any other area in the nation. Local, County and State government policy’s in Alabama encourage homeownership. Building CODEs are industry standard as is zoning. Fees and charges associated with new construction and rehabilitation are reasonable and have no appreciable effect on homeownership opportunities. The cost of housing in Alabama is far lower than in many other areas and it follows that families can more readily afford to buy houses in the State of Alabama than most other areas of the USA.

The City has undertaken housing rehabilitation programs with its CDBG funds to help the elderly and disabled stay in their homes. The City has addressed the severe problem of credit worthiness in the low to moderate income community by partnering with United Way of Central Alabama to provide credit counseling for applicants of the City’s CDBG funded Rehabilitation Loan Programs. Participants who complete the United Way program are deemed as credit eligible for those Rehabilitation loan programs. The City has also organized programs and seminars conducted by the top officers of local banks to provide the citizens of Bessemer with the knowledge necessary to successfully obtain private mortgage financing.

The City has addressed the impediment of Employment by providing job training programs for Youth, like Camp Bessemer, and encourages job creation for low to moderate income persons through its economic development loan program. As mentioned above the City of Bessemer has been extraordinarily successful in landing several major economic development projects which have provided thousnds of jobs to this point in time and promise to provide several thousand more in the near future.

The City has partnered with agencies like Habitat for Humanity to build new housing in the City that will allow low to moderate income persons to achieve home ownership. The City plans to assist in such

programs through the provision of services and through the procurement of residential building lots.

To the extent that one wishes to attribute jobs, transportation, the removal and or rehabilitation of blighted housing, and the improvement of credit worthiness to improved opportunities for housing, the CIty of Bessemer has made major strides in addressing the impediments to fair housing listed in the Analisis of Impediments to Fair Housing.

AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k)

Introduction:

The basic premise behind the design of the City of Bessemer’s Consolidated/Action Plan is to provide, as closely as possible, a holistic approach to the needs of the low to moderate income persons in the community. Each program under the housing umbrella, whether federally funded or funded by the CIty itself works to provide clean and safe neighborhoods, Housing Stock revitalization and compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act to improve the quality of life of those in need. In addition the City uses CDBG funds to provide loans to local business with the National Objective of creating jobs.

Employment, like many of the functions undertaken by the City through its CDBG program is a key factor in the ability to own a home. Fair Housing is a focus of the City and addressing problems associated with transportation and economic development are important to maximizing the opportunity for home ownership in the CIty of Bessemer. The City arranged public forums with local banks to provide information about mortgage loans and the mortgage loan process for citizens.

Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs

The Economic and Community Development Department administers a comprehensive Housing program designed to serve low to moderate income individuals. The City will continue to provide CDBG funded loans, to the extent funding is available, to make housing more livable and to give families an opportunity to realize the advantages of homeownership. The City intends to increase the funding of its Emergency Grant program to meet the needs of the elderly and disabled. It should be pointed out that CDBG funding for such programs has dropped by 21.4% since FY2007. The City has contributed

$250,000.00 annually from its General Fund to address the severe problem of blighted housing in the community. The City plans to continue to reach out to organization like Habitat for Humanity to provide housing rehabilitation and new housing services the City cannot provide due t either inadequate funding or CDBG rule. Habitat for Humanity plans to build ten new houses in Bessemer in 2018 from their own funding sources. The City plans to assist Habitat for Humanity with services in 2018 and hopes to assist in providing property for additional housing construction in 2019.

Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing

The City will continue loan and grant programs designed to remove barriers, according to The American’s With Disabilities Act, to residents and to bring houses into a CODE conforming condition.

These programs have proven to allow families to have a higher quality of life in a safer environment.

Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards

The City of Bessemer tests all houses of participants in housing programs built before 1979 for lead based paint if a painted surface will be disturbed in the rehabilitation process. The City also routinely tests if projects exceed $5,000.00 in total cost. The City maintains a policy that lead based paint must be abated if addressed. The City has sponsored, and will continue to sponsor, public meetings and seminars with the Alabama Department of Health to inform the public of the dangers of lead based paint and to educate contractors in required procedures. All participants receive a booklet explaining the dangers of lead based paint. The City follows all EPA and HUD regulations relative to the treatment and abaterment of lead based paint. Lead based paint is always a consideration in the rehabilitation process.

Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families

Job creation through the City’s Economic Development Program and well as the expansion of the tax base through economic development will serve to reduce poverty levels. Housing programs, with their focus on energy efficiency and cost reduction, through programs like the Rehabilitation Loan Program known as Buy/Rehab/ Sell and Refinance/Rehabilitation work to make housing safer and more affordable.

Actions planned to develop institutional structure

The City of Bessemer and other community development and housing organizations have achieved institutional structure through their commitment to community involvement and continued support. Community development and housing initiative programs are administered through the Department of Economic and Community Development. This also allows for continued institutional knowledge with respect to successful means and tactics in the preparation and administration of grants and grant applications.The City of Bessemer and the Bessemer Public Housing Authority have partnered in recent years to ensure the continued success and growth of the community as a whole. Through these collaborative efforts, an emphasis is placed on the needs of the community while avoiding duplicated efforts by the individual entities. These collaborative efforts have proven to be successful and the City looks to partner with other entities to achieve the same goals and will continue to strive for improved institutional structure.

Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies

The City is committed to focusing efforts to ensure the coordination of stakeholders and continual

improvements to the programmatic delivery system. The City will continue to look for ways to enhance coordination in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan through its established partnerships with Community and Development Services, the Bessemer Public Housing Authority, and the Jefferson County Community Development Department.

The City will work with One Roof, the Continuum of Care to promote a communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness; to seek out funding for efforts that seek to address homelessness in Bessemer and to support methods to assist in the rehousing of homeless individuals. The City will continue its commitment to the development of a viable Economic Infrastructure through the support of Incentive Programs Economic Development Loan Program and other incentives. The City is also committed to continuing the implementation of its Camp Bessemer program to promote economic opportunity for Bessemer Youth. The City will continue to coordinate with local stakeholders to support economic development through the creation of jobs and educational opportunities for neighborhood residents living throughout the City.

Discussion:

The FY2018 CDBG Action Plan of the City of Bessemer continues the execution of the broadbased Consolidated plan generated in FY2015. This plan addresses Housing, Public Service, Public Facilities and Clearance needs with new funding and with funding from the Revolving Loan Fund. The FY2018 Action Plan will further address the needs identified in the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing that was included with the ConsolidatedPlan of FY2009 and updated in the Consolidated Plan of FY2015.

Program Specific Requirements

AP-90 Program Specific Requirements – 91.220(l)(1,2,4)

Introduction:

The City of Bessemer only receives CDBG funding. All funding mentioned in this Action Plan are derivatives of CDBG Entitlement funds or CDBG related Housing Revolving Loan funds.

Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(1)

Projects planned with all CDBG funds expected to be available during the year are identified in the Projects Table. The following identifies program income that is available for use that is included in projects to be carried out.

Other CDBG Requirements

It is expected that the overall minimum benefit of 70% of CDBG funds to benefit low to moderate income will be realized over the course of the FY2015-FY2019 Consolidated Plan. All programs, except Clearance are designed to achieve 100% low mod benefit. Even so the Clearance program will be concentrated in low income areas and will still benefit low to moderate income citizens. 83% of the FY2018 CDBG grant will directly impact low to moderate income service.

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