Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County 30-day Public Review Document

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1 Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County 30-day Public Review Document Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department 375 Satula Avenue Athens, GA Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA i

2 Three Year Consolidated Plan Annual Action Plan I Executive Summary...1 Process...5 Citizen Participation Summary...12 Needs Assessment...17 Market Analysis...57 Barriers to Affordable Housing...72 Strategic Plan...82 Homelessness Strategy Annual Goals and Objectives CDBG and HOME Funded Agencies and Projects Appendix Neighborhood Revitalization Plans Citizen Participation Plan Thematic Maps Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA ii

3 Executive Summary ES-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR (c), (b) 1. Introduction The Athens-Clarke County Consolidated Plan is a three year plan that describes the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County s community development priorities and multiyear goals based on an assessment of housing and community development needs, an analysis of housing and economic market conditions, and available resources. The Athens Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is comprised of the following counties and all of the incorporated municipalities within them: Clarke, Oconee, Madison, and Oglethorpe. Athens- Clarke County is the recognized population nucleus for Northeast Georgia. Athens-Clarke County is a consolidated government located in Northeast Georgia, comprising the former City of Athens (the county seat) and Clarke County. Incorporated areas include Athens-Clarke County and the City of Winterville. The City of Bogart is also partially located in Athens-Clarke County. The jurisdiction covers approximately 122 square miles Athens-Clarke County is a HUD Entitlement Community and as such required to prepare a Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans as a pre-requisite for receiving HUD funding. The Athens-Clarke County (ACC) Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) is responsible for administering Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funded Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs along with other federal, state, and local funds to support and assist community development efforts to sustain viable neighborhoods by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities for low to moderate income residents. CDBG and HOME funded programs assist housing and community development activities. The Consolidated Plan is carried out through annual action plans. Each annual action plan provides a summary of actions, activities, and specific federal resources that will be used each year to address the priority needs and goals identified in the Consolidated Plan s strategic plan. Following is a summary of the funds available to assist Action Plan I activities. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA iii

4 Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 2 Financial Information Annual Action Plan I - (July 1, 2015-June 30, 2016) $1,208,867 CDBG $ 251,000 CDBG Funds Available for Reprogramming $1,459,687 CDBG $362,341 HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) The achievement of HCD s mission requires a focus on socially and economically distressed areas for neighborhood revitalization. Revitalization involves a comprehensive delivery of housing and community development services and investment in fragile neighborhoods to improve social and economic conditions and ultimately re-establish a viable self-sustaining neighborhood. ACC has two HUD approved neighborhood revitalization plans; one for East Athens and another for the Hancock Corridor. Each neighborhood revitalization plan area is considered to be low or moderate income with 70% or more of its residents earning low to moderate incomes. It is for these reasons that Census Tracts 301, 302, 6, and 9 have been designated as focus areas for CDBG and HOME investments. Along with the establishment of neighborhood revitalization areas, Athens-Clarke County works to improve capacity of nonprofit organizations to deliver programs in the revitalization areas. Athens-Clarke County s two HUD approved Neighborhood Revitalization Plans are part of the Consolidated Plan. The East Athens and Hancock Corridor Neighborhood Revitalization Plans were approved by the Mayor and Commission in 1995 and 2000 respectively. Athens-Clarke County plans to continue neighborhood revitalization efforts in East Athens and the Hancock Corridor for the duration of this Consolidated Plan. These strategies allow ACC to allocate CDBG for public services, for the exclusive benefit of residents of these plan areas, which are not subject to the annual 15% public service cap. 2. Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment Overview Government housing assistance programs, including those provided by HUD, significantly reduce housing needs and homelessness but are not available for all those who need assistance. CDBG, HOME, and other funding will assist local partners with activities to assist business expansion programs through partnerships with non-profit corporations, private developers, small businesses, and lenders. Housing strategies include infill development, real estate acquisition, construction of single-family and multi-family housing, historic preservation, owner-occupied home repairs, accessibility improvements, and rehabilitation of single-family houses and multifamily developments to expand housing choices and increase the availability of safe, decent, affordable housing. The plan also includes strategies to improve neighborhoods such as the identification and demolition of burned-out and dilapidated structures blighting neighborhoods through court-orders and through a voluntary program designed to assist low income owners of dilapidated and dangerous properties. The plan also includes public services benefitting seniors, youth, those in need of medical assistance, counseling, and educational and training assistance. Consolidated Plan partners will use a variety of objectives to address plan goals.

5 Business and Job Development is the priority goal in the strategic plan. Objectives to address the goal include the provision of job skills training, GED preparation, business planning assistance, capital loans for small businesses, and job placement programs to reduce barriers to employment Affordable Housing Development and Redevelopment objectives include property acquisition, construction of single-family homes and multi-family developments, housing rehabilitation, owner-occupied home repairs to remove hazards Housing Services objectives include provision of shelter and re-housing financial assistance for the homeless, housing counseling, financial literacy, and fair housing services, and demolition assistance. Community Improvement objectives may include projects that eliminate or reduce factors that encourage crime and blight in neighborhoods, public infrastructure projects, and assistance with neighborhood preservation and enhancement of areas in transition or in need of repair, rehabilitation, and redevelopment. Athens-Clarke County's goals for the planning period are addressed through: Microenterprise activities, Economic Development projects, and Neighborhood Revitalization Public Services beyond the 15% cap Affordable Housing Development and Sustainability programs, and Public Services to assist housing counseling, youth development, senior services, shelter, and employment 3. Evaluation of past performance According to the 2013 Year Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Review, HUD's assessment has included reviews of Athens-Clarke County's consolidated planning process, management of grant funds, progress in carrying out local policies and program activities, compliance with program requirements, the accuracy of performance reports, and accomplishments in meeting Departmental objectives. HUD has determined that Athens-Clarke County's overall progress is satisfactory and the Housing and Community Development Department has the capacity to continue implementing and administering Athens-Clarke County's Consolidated Plan program activities in accordance with the applicable statutory requirements. 4. Summary of citizen participation process and consultation process The planning approach utilized in the development of the Consolidated Plan included a thorough review of community indicators, both economic and demographic, a review of housing supply and need, and a series of six community meetings to identify resources and citizen concerns regarding housing and community development needs. Eighty people participated in the community assessment meetings. HCD sorted participant comments and concerns into four topics: social services, business and employment services, housing related services, and community improvements and identified Consolidated Plan goals and examples of CDBG eligible objectives from the information gathered. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 3

6 HCD staff met with the citizen advisory committee known as the Vision Committee, to identify the priority Consolidated Plan goal derived from the community needs and resources assessment meetings. The Vision committee is a 10-member committee appointed by the Mayor and Commission to assist HCD is the review of Action Plan activities. During a Mayor and Commission Work Session, HCD staff presented: a. findings from the community resources and needs assessment b. proposed Consolidated Plan Goals and the priority goal; and c. proposed FY16 CDBG Application schedule On October 7, 2014 the Mayor and Commission approved the Consolidated Plan goals and confirmed Business and Job Development as the priority goal at their regular voting session and on October 20, 2014, HCD released the FY16 CDBG funding application. HCD received 29 applications for CDBG funds seeking $2,085,290. HCD met with the Vision Committee to review, discuss, and rate each CDBG application. On February 10, 2015 at the Mayor and Commission Work Session, HCD staff presented recommendations for CDBG funding for the FY16 Annual Action Plan. The Mayor and Commission reviewed recommendations for July 1, 2015 CDBG funding at a work session on February 10, 2015 and an Agenda Setting Session on March 19, The Mayor and Commission voting meeting included a public hearing seeking citizen comments about the Annual Action Plan recommendations on April 7, The Annual Action Plan is available for review and comment for 30-days. Copies are available at: A-CC Housing and Community Development Department A-CC Mayor's Office A-CC Manager s Office A-CC Regional Library Athens Housing Authority Northeast Georgia Regional Commission (RDC) Miriam Moore Community Service Center - East Athens Development Corporation Hancock Community Development Corporation 5. Summary of public comments The department received comments during the review period. 6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them To be completed prior to submission of the document to HUD. 7. Summary Athens-Clarke County s Consolidated Plan is designed to develop a viable urban community by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, expanded economic opportunities principally for low and moderate-income persons, and programs that address the needs of homeless and near homeless persons. An approved Citizen Participation Plan was used to gather public comments through public meetings and the consultation process provided additional input. Information gathered from the public, a housing market and demographic analysis, and data provided by HUD was used to identify, goals and the activities in this Consolidated Plan. The planning approach included a thorough review of community indicators and a series of six community meetings to identify community resources and neighborhood needs. Findings from the community meetings were presented to the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission which formally approved the Consolidated Plan Goals and strategies. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 4

7 The Process PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies 24 CFR (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 is the entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source. Agency Role Name Department/Agency CDBG Administrator Robert W. Trevena Housing and Community Development Department HOME Administrator Robert W. Trevena Housing and Community Development Department Table 1 Responsible Agencies Narrative The Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) is responsible for administering the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funded Community Development Block Grant and HOME programs. HCD is the lead agency responsible for planning and implementing the Consolidated Plan. Major public and private agencies responsible for administering CDBG and HOME funded activities identified in the Consolidated Plan include ACTION, Inc., Athens Area Habitat for Humanity, Athens Area Homeless Shelter, the Athens Housing Authority, Athens Land Trust, East Athens Development Corporation, and several public service agencies. During the preparation of the plan, HCD solicited input from governmental agencies as well as various public and private agencies providing housing, public services, and micro-enterprise traning and will continue to form new partnerships with non-profit organizations, private sector companies, and other local organizations. The Consolidated Plan outlines Athens-Clarke County's specific housing and community development goals, objectives, and resources that support the provision of decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities for low-income and moderate-income persons. HCD benefits from the use of a citizen advisory committee. The mission of the Vision Committee is to offer advice to HCD on Consolidated Plan activities. The citizen advisory committee meets as necessary, to review the performance of sub-recipient agencies, the funding decision-making processes, and related activities. The committee members are appointed through an open and transparent process where vacancies are advertised, applications are received, and candidates are interviewed by the Mayor Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 5

8 and Commission. All committee meetings are on ACC s government calendar and are open to the public. The Athens-Clarke County Consolidated Plan is available for review upon request or may be found at: athensclarkecounty.com/hcd Housing efforts are coordinated through a local collaborative composed of representatives from Athens Housing Authority, Athens Land Trust, ACTION, Inc., the University of Georgia and other interested and invlived groups. Economic Development activity is focused on small business reviolving loans and micro-enterprise business development and support. Athens-Clarke County 's Continuum of Care system is coordinated by the NE GA Homeless and Poverty Coalition that provides a comprehensive response to the needs of homeless individuals and families. CDBG and HOME funds are provided to non-profits through a competitive application process. Athens- Clarke County ensures appropriate coordination of the following: Providing technical assistance to sub-recipients and applicants for funding Administration of the statutory requirements of the CDBG, HOME, and Homeless Assistance Grant Programs Management of strategic planning and performance evaluation of all HUD funded programs Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information Robert W. Trevena, Director Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department 375 Satula Avenue Athens, GA robert.trevena@athensclarkecounty.com athensclarkecounty.com/hcd Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 6

9 PR-10 Consultation , (b), (l) 1. Introduction 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)). Activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers During the preparation of the Consolidated Plan, HCD solicited input from governmental agencies as well as various public and private agencies providing housing, public services, and economic development. HCD is a long-time member of the Athens-Clarke County Affordable Housing Round Table, also known as the One Athens Housing Team. Through its various iterations, the committee is composed of representatives from the Athens Housing Authority, (the host of the meetings), Athens Land Trust (the local Community Housing Development Organization), ACTION, Inc., Athens Area Habitat for Humanity, Athens-Clarke Heritage Foundation; all are non-profit organizatons focusing on housing development, or maintenance and sustainability of affordable housing. Representatives from the mortgage and banking industry and academics from the University of Georgia also participate in monthly meetings to share ideas and discuss collaborative projects. The purpose of the committee is to improve inter-agency collaboration and planning for the development of affordable housing. The group meets monthly to plan and discuss housing issues and activities. 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 Activities to enhance coordination with the Continuum of Care In addition to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME funding, HUD offers opportunities for communities to compete nationally for Homeless Assistance Grant Program funding which is intended to alleviate homelessness. The Homeless Assistance Grant funds the development of supportive services and housing that helps homeless people transition from homelessness to independent living, permanent supportive housing, and services for disabled homeless persons. The Homeless Assistance Grant also provides funding for rental assistance which gives applicants flexibility in obtaining appropriate housing. As part of the Homeless Assistance Grant Application, HUD requires communities to develop or update a Continuum of Care Plan which outlines the activities and services a community offers to assist homeless individuals in transitioning from homelessness to self-reliance. HCD provides financial and administrative support in the efforts of the Northeast Georgia Poverty and Homeless Coalition and participates in monthly meetings to facilitate inter-agency collaboration and planning for Continuum of Care services. The coalition is a non-profit organization that coordinates agencies providing services and assistance for the homeless population, and conducts the annual point Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 7

10 in time count to help area shelters and soup kitchens determine the needs of the homeless population in Athens. 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 Continuum of Care Plan is updated annually through a public process coordinated by the Homeless and Poverty Coalition and HCD. The current Continuum of Care Plan was most recently updated in February The development of the Continuum of Care planning process has increased in scope and knowledge so that participants have been able to develop a system that allows for effective collaborative efforts to facilitate the development of programs focusing on both the chronic and general homeless population. With this in mind, the lead entity that generates this collaboration and homeless service provider planning process is the Northeast Georgia Homeless and Poverty Coalition in close collaboration with Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department (HCD). The Northeast Georgia Homeless and Poverty Coalition, an umbrella organization which has continuously expanded its participants to 60 community organizations and individuals, holds bi-monthly meetings for its members to share information about services, resources, and community needs. These meetings include speakers who are given the opportunity to address relevant issues affecting the local homeless population. The monthly meetings allow the coalition to provide an important forum for Athens-Clarke County Continuum of Care agencies and regional partners participating in the Georgia Continuum of CareHCD, the administrative entity for the Continuum of Care, works hand in hand with the Coalition to support the continuum by providing technical assistance, grant writing, and by acting as a liaison to the local government and elected officials. The Northeast Georgia Homeless and Poverty Coalition and HCD have worked expansively within the community to develop collaborative relationships among local homeless service agencies, mainstream organizations, local housing providers, and community and neighborhood groups. This cohesive relationship allows these two entities to draw from consolidated plan activities and coalition resources to empower them with the necessary structure and legitimacy to successfully implement the continuum planning process.the planning body continues to develop and modify the Continuum of Care to provide support towards self-sufficiency for the homeless. The Coalition, with assistance from HCD, has continued to recruit active community members and organizations into the planning process. The collaborative planning body has evolved into one comprised of service providers, homeless and formerly homeless persons, the faith-based community, individual advocates and the public and private sector. Members of this collaborative planning body attend monthly meetings and participate in the CoC planning sessions and other public meetings, including those sponsored by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. The Northeast Georgia Homeless and Poverty Coalition Executive Committee meets monthly to handle the organizational aspects of the Coalition and is responsible for overseeing the development of new initiatives targeting our homeless population. When a person becomes homeless in Athens and enters the network of shelters and service providers, they are entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) through local participating HMIS users and receive referrals to appropriate agencies. Case managers routinely contact service providers on their client's behalf. A referral or voucher is sent to the provider who initially assesses the client s needs and provides assistance based on the intake and assessment. Once a homeless person is able to find housing, many homeless service providers operate follow-up programs through which they Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 8

11 maintain contact with their formerly homeless clients to help ensure that they maintain housing stability and prevent future episodes of homelessness. The Northeast Georgia Homeless and Poverty Coalition Executive Committee includes representatives from the following organizations: Athens Urban Ministries, SOAR outreach initiative, Georgia Legal Services, Georgia Task Force for the Homeless, and HCD. This committee serves as the core-planning group for the development of housing and services targeting our homeless population. One of the most significant contributions of this committee was the creation of three distinct subcommittees whose responsibilities are to facilitate the development of new initiatives targeting three specific areas: Base realignment and closure, Access to mainstream services, and Data Collection on the local homeless population. Homeless Assessment Committee: Members include representatives from the Athens Area Homeless Shelter, Homeless Day Services Center, Salvation Army, ACC Police Department, St. Mary s Medical Center, AIDS Athens, Court Appointed Special Advocates, the Coalition, and HCD. This group is charged with forming strategies for understanding the current extent of chronic homelessness in Athens-Clarke County and determining the services utilized, services needed, and the impact of the chronic homeless community on our local hospitals and prison system through a cost-benefit analysis. Mainstream Services Access Committee: Members include representatives from the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS), Social Security Administration, Office of Disablity Adjudication Services, community advocates, and HCD. This group is charged with finding ways to improve access to mainstream service agencies for our homeless population, specifically targeting Department of Family and Children Services, Social Security Administration, Department of Labor, Workforce Investment Board, and Veterans Services through increased training and collaborative efforts. Base Realignment and Closure Committee: Membership includes representatives from Advantage Behavioral Health Systems (ABHS), Athens Area Homeless Shelter, Children First, Inc., AIDS Athens, the Housing and Community Development Department, Athens Nurses Clinic, and Northeast Georgia Homeless Coalition. This group will pursue the development of a proposal for homeless services to be implemented upon the closure of the local Navy Supply School. These subcommittees are the foundation of community efforts to develop a comprehensive 10-year plan to end chronic homelessness. As a result of the development of these new subcommittees the Continuum of Care has begun to concentrate on developing and implementing permanent supportive housing programs for chronically homeless persons and increasing access to mainstream services (i.e. TANF, Food Stamps, SSI). 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 HCD uses a variety of methods to involve citizens and community groups in the decision-making process for the Consolidated Plan. The purpose is to encourage citizen participation, with particular emphasis on participation by persons of low and moderate income and residents of slum and blighted areas and areas in which community development funds are proposed to be used. All aspects of citizen participation are conducted in an open manner and every reasonable effort is made to include low and Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 9

12 moderate income persons, minorities, the elderly, handicapped, project area residents, and civic groups. Citizens are provided with timely and adequate information, as well as technical assistance and are encouraged to express their views and submit proposals eligible for community development funds. Notice of all public hearings are published as a block ad in the non-legal section of the newspaper of general circulation (in this case, the Athens Banner-Herald) approximately 10 days prior to the time of any public hearing and includes time, date, location, amount of funding, and the topics to be discussed at the public hearings. Special effort is made to include participation by minority groups including African-Americans and those of Hispanic origin. Agency, Group, or Organization Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department ACTION, Inc. Advantage Behavioral Health Services - Homeless Day Service Center AIDS Athens Athens Area Habitat for Humanity Athens Area Homeless Shelter Athens Housing Authority Athens-Clarke Heritage Foundation Athens Community Council on Aging Athens Latino Center for Education and Services Athens Land Trust Athens Nurses' Clinic Athens Tutorial Program Boys and Girls Clubs of Athens Bread For Life Inc. East Athens Development Corporation Family Connection-Communities In Schools Project Safe The Salvation Army YWCO Table 2 Agencies, groups, organizations who participated Agency Type or Service Lead Agency Home repair, housing counseling Mental health services Case management Housing Shelter Housing Home repair Senior services Latino services Housing, housing counseling, and micro-enterprise training Healthcare Youth services Youth services Employment assistance Employment assistance and micro-enterprise training Youth services Shelter Shelter and public services Youth services Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 10

13 Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting Participation in planning and assessment meetings for Athens-Clarke County is publically announced and all meetings and processes are open to the public. Agencies not consulted through direct out-reach are those agencies that have little or no direct involvement in the development of affordable housing, the provision of public services, shelter, or economic development. Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan? Athens-Clarke County Comprehensive Plan Athens-Clarke County Urban Redevelopment Plan Athens-Clarke County Planning and Zoning Department Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department The plan supports a viable community with diverse housing options The plan assists the development of a viable community with economic opportunity Athens-Clarke County Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice Athens-Clarke County Housing and Community Development Department Table 3 Other local / regional / federal planning efforts The analysis identifies barriers to fair housing choice 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)) Athens-Clarke County is a consolidated government. The county coordinates with the State of Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) through non-profit partners in the Continuum of Care that receive CDBG and Homeless Assistance grants through Athens-Clarke County and DCA. Narrative (optional): The Consolidated Plan was made available during the 30-day public review and comment period at the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission (NEGRC). NEGRC serves 12 counties and 54 municipal governments in the Northeast Georgia Region. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 11

14 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 HCD uses a variety of methods to involve citizens in the decision-making process for the Consolidated Plan. The purpose is to encourage citizen participation, with particular emphasis on participation by persons of low and moderate income and residents of slum and blighted areas and areas in which community development funds are proposed to be used. All aspects of citizen participation are conducted in an open manner and every reasonable effort is made to include low and moderate income persons, minorities, the elderly, handicapped, project area residents, and civic groups. Notice of all public hearings are published as a block ad in the nonlegal section of the newspaper of general circulation (in this case, the Athens Banner-Herald) approximately 10 days prior to the time of any public hearing Special effort is made to include participation by minority groups including African-Americans and those of Hispanic origin. The Athens-Clarke County Consolidated Plan Citizen Participation Plan can be found at the end of this document. In May 2014 HCD published a series of radio advertisements announcing six community needs and resources assessment meetings scheduled for May through June. Ads were run on three radio stations HCD bought print advertisements from Athens Banner Herald and Flagpole Magazine. HCD utilized the Athens-Clarke County Neighborhood Notification list. The list includes 31 neighborhoods. HCD also notified sub-recipients staff, volunteers, and board members about the citizen participation opportunities via and posted meeting announcements on the departmental web site Eighty people participated in the six community needs meetings. All meeting participant comments and concerns were documented. Draft goals and strategies were then developed from the information gathered. Information from the community needs and resource assessment meetings and a proposed Annual Action Plan schedule was presented to the Mayor and Commission for formal approval at an advertised meeting on October 7, Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 12

15 Citizen Participation Outreach Sort O rder Mode of Outreach 1 Internet 1a 1b Radio Print Target of Outreach Housing and Communit y Developm ent news subscribers and Nontargeted broad community Magic 102.1, Power 100.1, and on WXAG - The Light 1470 AM listeners Athens Banner Herald and Flagpole readers Summary of Response or attendance 80 people attended one of the six community needs and resources assessment meetings See above in row one. See above in row one. Summary o f comments received HCD staff sorted and consolidate d comments into four topics: social services, business and employme nt services, housing related services, and community improveme nts. See above. See above in row one. Summary of co mments not accepted and reasons HCD accepted all comments. See above. See above in row one. URL (If applicable) ecounty.com/hcd See above. See above in row one. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 13

16 Sort O rder 1c Mode of Outreach Standard public notificati on through Clerk of Commissi on s Office for Mayor and Commissi on meetings Target of Outreach Interested citizens Summary of Response or attendance There were no citizens in attendance at the meeting responding to the Consolidate d Plan goals Summary o f comments received There were no citizen comments Summary of co mments not accepted and reasons There were no citizen comments URL (If applicable) See above in row one. 2 Internet Housing and Communit y Developm ent news subscribers and Nontargeted broad community 13 people attended the CDBG request for applications meeting There were no comments as this was designed as a technical assistance session for potential applicants N/A ecounty.com/hcd 2a Print Athens Banner Herald and Flagpole readers See above in row one. See above in row one. See above in row one. N/A Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 14

17 Sort O rder Mode of Outreach 3 Internet Target of Outreach Housing and Communit y Developm ent news subscribers and Nontargeted broad community Summary of Response or attendance Several people attended the CDBG public hearing on April 7, 2015 Summary o f comments received Comments were in support of the plan Summary of co mments not accepted and reasons All comments were accepted. URL (If applicable) Athensclarkecount y.com 3a Print Athens Banner Herald and Flagpole readers See above in row one. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 15

18 Sort O rder 3b Mode of Outreach See rows 3 and 3a Target of Outreach See rows 3 and 3a Summary of Response or attendance A 30-day public review was held from April 13, 2014 through May 12, Hard copies of the Consolidate d Plan and Action Plan were available for public review and comment at several locations. Copies were also available on HCD s website and citizens could request the document in person or by telephone, fax, or e- mail. Summary o f comments received Summary of co mments not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable) ecounty.com/hcd Table 4 Citizen Participation Outreach Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 16

19 Needs Assessment NA-05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview The planning process included a needs assessment, a resource review, and a gaps analysis to assign housing and community development resources to assist the development and sustainability of affordable housing, economic development, public facilities and improvements, and the delivery of public services. The needs assessment included a thorough review of community indicators and a series of six community meetings to identify community resources and neighborhood needs. The data provided in the community indicators served as the statistical basis for the needs assessment. Misinterpretation of population data can have a significant impact on the accuracy of current condition assessments regarding housing, economic development, and public service planning. There are nearly 56,000 male residents and nearly 62,000 female residents living in Athens-Clarke County. The median age is 25.9 and 65.7% of the residents are white and 26.2% are black and just over 10% are Hispanic or Latino.. The citizens who participated in the Community Assessment meetings are generally representative of the broader community. The Community Assessment results include a wide range of need including: Small and micro-business assistance programs that support economic security, employment, small and micro-business development, and training Affordable housing and shelter programs assisting housing development and sustainability and shelter Social Services all aspects of social service needs fall into this category, including childcare, training, case management, medical assistance, senior services, shelter, and counseling Public infrastructure projects that support a suitable living environment Other any other issues that do not fall into one of the above categories Business and job development assistance are identified as the most important need in the community. Affordable housing development and redevelopment were also identified as important goals to pursue during the 3-year Consolidated Plan period. Housing services including shelter and re-housing financial assistance for the homeless, housing counseling, financial literacy, and fair housing services are also considered important objectives. Community improvements such as the demolition of dilapidated structures, the elimination or reduction of factors that encourage crime and blight in neighborhoods, assistance with neighborhood preservation and enhancement of areas in transition or in need of repair, rehabilitation and redevelopment are also important areas of concern. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 17

20 NA-10 Housing Needs Assessment - 24 CFR (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2011 % Change Population 101, ,131 14% Households 39,678 41,349 4% Median Income $55, $75, % Table 5 - Housing Needs Assessment Demographics Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), ACS (Most Recent Year) Housing needs cut across all regions of the country and include all racial and ethnic groups, regardless of whether they lived in cities, suburbs or rural areas. Housing needs are also found across various household types including families with children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. A household is a group of people living together; either as roommates, a traditional nuclear family, or a couple. Formation means one more of those categories. More formations suggest more people are finding employment, securing apartments, getting married, having children, and spending money to furnish a new household and exercising their independence. The 2020 median age for Athens-Clarke County is projected to be 24.6 years and 33.9 years for the state of Georgia. Among the major factors impacting the average age of the population is the location of the University of Georgia, Piedmont College, and Athens Technical College in the community. With over 30,000 college students at UGA alone, Athens will likely continue to have a median age that is lower than the state as a whole. This in turn has a direct impact on the Athens housing market and the housing needs of the community. The Athens-Clarke County population continues to increase though the formation of households significantly lags that growth rate by 10%. Affordable Housing, as defined by HUD, is when the cost of housing related expenses (mortgage/rent and utilities) does not cost more than 30% of a family s income. HUD s affordability data is based upon percentages of a family s household income. Limiting the percentage of a family s income to pay for housing related expenses provides the family flexibility to care for other household needs-food, medical, transportation, and clothing. Family s that pay more than 30% of their income on housing related expenses are considered cost burdened. Home Ownership-HUD s 2010 Median Family Income for ACC is estimated at $58,600; the 2010 American Community Survey (ACS) reported ACC median home value at $160,200 with a median home sales price at $118,500. Additionally, the 2010 ACS reflects that 35.1% of ACC homeowners with a mortgage pay more than 30% of their income on monthly housing expenses. Renters-The Fair Market Rent (FMR) as determined by HUD for a two bedroom apartment is $768 monthly. In order for a family within ACC to afford a two bedroom apartment at FMR (rent & utilities), the family must earn at least $2,533 monthly/$30,400 annually; and according to results from the 2010 ACS, 61.44% of renters paid more than 30% of their income on monthly housing related expenses. Renters have the greatest burden in household cost. Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 18

21 *The number of cost burden homes does not include households within Public Housing or receiving Section 8 Vouchers; student housing is included within households that are cost burdened. The HUD User FY 2014 Income Limits Documentation System reports that the Athens-Clarke County Metropolitan Statistical Area median income is $55,500. The Extremely Low (30%) Income Limit is $23,850 and the Very Low (50%) Income Limit for a family of four is $27,750. The Low (80%) Income Limit is $44,400. The American Community Survey data reports the Median Contract Rent in 2000 was $485 and in 2011 it was $650 representing a 34% increase in median rents. Approximately 25.5% of all renter households are paying over 30% of their household incomes for housing as compared to nearly 8% of all owners. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) "custom tabulations" of data from the U.S. Census Bureau known as the "CHAS" data (Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy), based on the and ACS for the jurisdiction, there are 7,979 households making 30% of Area Median Income, with one or more of four housing problems; unit lacks complete kitchen facilities, lacks complete plumbing facilities, has more than one person per room, or cost burden greater than 30% of household income. There are 4,249 households making 30 to 50% of Area Median Income, with one or more of four housing problems. Though there are home-owners with housing problems, the greatest housing need is assisting renter households with a housing cost burden greater than 30%-50% of income. There are over 10,500 cost burdened households; over 25% of all households in Athens and renter households classified as other, (as opposed to family and elderly households) with a housing cost burden greater than 30% of household income, are more affected than family households. Number of Households Table 0-30% HAMFI >30-50% HAMFI >50-80% HAMFI >80-100% HAMFI >100% HAMFI Total Households * 9,674 5,145 5,934 3,774 16,815 Small Family Households * 1,965 1,555 1,900 1,285 7,845 Large Family Households * Household contains at least one person years of age ,990 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older ,385 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger * Data Source: Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 19 1,415 1, ,570 * the highest income category for these family types is >80% HAMFI Table 6 - Total Households Table CHAS Families and household composition change along with changes in the economy and labor markets. A household is composed of one or more people living in a housing unit. The householder is someone who owns or rents the residence. Family and household composition includes two types of households: family and nonfamily. A family household has two or more related members, one of whom is the householder. A nonfamily household is either a person living alone or a householder who shares the

22 house with nonrelatives or roommates. Family households are maintained by married couples or by people living with other relatives, with or without children. A nonfamily household is maintained people with no relatives in the home. The average household size in Athens is 2.35 and the average family size is Household size has remained consistent in Athens at below 3 persons per household despite national changes in household size. The CHAS reports a total of 41,342 households. Nearly 24% of all households make 30% or less of the median family income for the community % of all households make between 30% to 50% of the median family income and 14% make between 50% and 80% of the median family income for Athens. Half of the households living in Athens are eligible for CDBG and HOME assistance while the other half of all households makes 80% or more of the median family income. Athens-Clarke County's household income figures are lowered by the significant college student population. The majority of these students do not work full-time. While the large number of students explains the low income relative to other areas, the relatively slow rate of income growth is a concern Household income for Clarke County increased over the last several decades but at a slower rate than the state of Georgia and other MSA counties. The Athens-Clarke County economy is heavily dependent upon public sector employment through the University of Georgia and other local government agencies, but Athens-Clarke County still has a diverse and healthy manufacturing base. The county s unemployment rate is consistently less than most of the surrounding counties and less than the State of Georgia as a whole. Housing Needs Summary Tables 1. Housing Problems (Households with one of the listed needs) 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Substandard Housing - Lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities Severely Overcrowded - With >1.51 people per room (and complete kitchen and plumbing) Total Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 20

23 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Overcrowded - With people per room (and none of the above problems) Housing cost burden greater than 50% of income (and none of the above problems) 5,034 1, , ,809 Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 340 1,500 1, , ,854 Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) 1, , Data Source: 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) 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Having 1 or more of four housing problems 5,414 1, , ,023 Total Total Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 21

24 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Having none of four housing problems 1,025 2,205 3,205 1,960 8, ,615 1,619 4,411 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems 1, , Data Source: CHAS Table 8 Housing Problems 2 Total 3. Cost Burden > 30% 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner >50-80% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related , Large Related Elderly ,015 Other 3,933 1,780 1,160 6, ,027 Total need by 5,486 3,052 2,024 10, ,354 3,135 income Data Source: CHAS Table 9 Cost Burden > 30% Total 4. Cost Burden > 50% 0-30% AMI Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 22 >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related , Large Related Elderly Other 3,744 1, , Total need by 5,103 1, , ,740 income >50-80% AMI Total

25 Data Source: CHAS Table 10 Cost Burden > 50% 5. Crowding (More than one person per room) 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Owner >50-80% AMI >80-100% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Single family households Multiple, unrelated family households Other, non-family households Total need by income Data Source: CHAS Total Table 11 Crowding Information 1/2 Households with Children Present 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Renter >50-80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI Table 12 Crowding Information 2/2 Owner >50-80% AMI Total Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance. The American Community Survey indicates that 13,267 (32.4%) Athens residents live alone. Housing cost burden is the single most important housing problem faced by Athenians. Over 25% of all households in Athens are cost burdened so at least 3,000 single person households may face significant problems in paying rent or mortgages for housing. According to the study, America s Families and Living Arrangements: 2012 by the U.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Survey, Annual Social and Economic Supplement, selected years, 1970 to 2012,there have been significant changes in the composition of American households: Households and families are smaller. Married households tended to be older and made up a smaller share of all households. Living alone is more common as the number of married households with children has decreased. There are approximately 31,886,794 single-person households in the U.S.; 14,119,225 males (12.3%) and 17,767,569 (15.2%) females. According to the report, the proportion of one-person households Consolidated Plan Athens-Clarke County, GA 23