BUCKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

Transcription

1 BUCKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA BUCKS COUNTY CONSORTIUM CONSOLIDATED PLAN and 2015 ACTION PLAN Department of Housing and Community Development 1260 Almshouse Rd., Doylestown, PA Phone: Fax:

2 The Process PR 05 Lead & Responsible Agencies (b) 1. Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source. Agency Role Name Department/Agency Lead Agency BUCKS COUNTY CDBG Administrator HOPWA Administrator HOME Administrator ESG Administrator HOPWA C Administrator Narrative Table 1 Responsible Agencies Department of Housing & Community Development Department of Housing & Community Development Department of Housing & Community Development Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development 1260 Almshouse Road Doylestown, PA Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 1

3 PR 10 Consultation , (b), (l) 1. Introduction The Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) consulted with various public and private agencies throughout the development of the Consolidated Plan in order to determine community needs, develop goals and objectives to address priority needs, and to enhance coordination between private and public agencies. Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(I)). The DHCD works closely with public and assisted housing providers, health and mental health organizations, and social service agencies throughout the jurisdiction. The director of the DHCD serves on the Housing Advisory Board, a 22 member task force appointed by the County Commissioners in 2014 to recommend "system changes" to the county's role in housing and housing services that are supportive of the overall quality of the community in Bucks County. DHCD is also the lead agency for the Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County (CoC), the organization responsible for the planning and implementation of housing and homeless programs in Bucks County. The CoC membership includes representation by housing providers, mental health and drug and alcohol treatment providers, emergency shelters and outreach organizations, faith based organizations, youth services, and other interested organizations. The DHCD also collaborates with the CoC Executive Committee to implement and evaluate Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funded programs. The DHCD is an active partner in the creation and implementation of the Bucks County Housing Link, the central point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing crisis. 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 DHCD acts as the Lead Agency for the CoC and actively coordinates with the CoC to address the needs of homeless persons throughout the jurisdiction. As the Lead Agency, the DHCD submits the annual CoC Program application for funding on behalf of the CoC funded agencies and regularly evaluates program performance. The DHCD participates on the Executive Committee of the CoC and employs the HMIS Coordinator. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 2

4 In an effort to more efficiently address the needs of homeless persons, the Bucks County Housing Link was launched in This collaborative project, carried out by four prominent housing providers and the DHCD, is the central point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing crisis. It includes a call center and several assessment centers which serve all persons experiencing a housing crisis in Bucks County. The Housing Link screens callers with a brief interview to determine the household s basic eligibility for housing assistance and refers them to the nearest regional coordinated assessment center. The coordinated assessment centers schedule an in person appointment in order to determine the level of housing assistance needed to resolve the crisis and to identify available assistance options. Persons in crisis are then connected with the most appropriate housing assistance program to resolve the housing crisis. These efforts are coordinated with Rapid Re Housing and hotel/motel vouchers provided by the United Way to reduce the number of persons living in literally homeless situations. Data from the Housing Link is used by the CoC to identify and serve the highest need populations. The CoC regularly evaluates performance measures and outcomes for programs funded through the CoC and ESG programs. This evaluation assists the DHCD to determine the needs of homeless persons, identify system and service gaps, and allocate limited resources. 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 DHCD actively coordinates with the CoC in the implementation of the ESG program. The DHCD administers and monitors all ESG funded projects including those funded through the ESG entitlement program and those that are awarded through Pennsylvania s competitive ESG program. ESG funding is used to provide emergency shelter operations, rapid re housing, and homeless prevention services. The application, review and ranking process for ESG funding is facilitated by the DHCD. ESG funding announcements are coordinated through the CoC and include a discussion of eligible activities, available funding, and a timeline for application and implementation. The CoC Executive Committee provides input into the selection of ESG projects for approval and the CoC Outcomes Subcommittee assists with evaluating ESG outcomes based on the performance standards developed for the program. The DHCD is also the administrator of the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) system and works closely with the CoC s HMIS Subcommittee to maintain the policies and procedures for administration of the HMIS. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 3

5 2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities Table 2 Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Housing Authority Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing PHA Housing Need Assessment Public Housing Needs Market Analysis Agency participates on the Bucks County Housing Advisory Board to identify housing needs and make recommendations for coordinated services for low income residents. In person consultation was also conducted to gather information on resident housing needs and Public Housing stock. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Military Affairs Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Other government County Veterans Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Needs Veterans Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for veterans throughout the jurisdiction. 3 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Adult Probation and Parole Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Services Housing Services Persons with Disabilities Services Health Other government County Community Corrections Housing Need Assessment Re entry/offender Populations Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 4

6 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine needs and identify housing and services for the corrections population throughout the jurisdiction. 4 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Human Services Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Children Services Elderly Persons Services Persons with Disabilities Services homeless Health Agency Child Welfare Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government County Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Non Homeless Special Needs Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for special needs populations throughout the jurisdiction. In person consultation was also conducted to gather information on specific needs and services provided through County and Statefunded housing programs. 5 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Corrections Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government County Housing Need Assessment Re Entry/Offender Population Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for those being released from the Bucks County Correctional Facility. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 5

7 6 Agency/Group/Organization FAMILY SERVICE ASSOCIATION OF BUCKS COUNTY Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 6 Housing Services Housing Services Persons with Disabilities Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services homeless Services Health 7 Agency/Group/Organization A Womans Place Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Veterans Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. In person consultation was also conducted to determine HIV/AIDS housing needs. Housing Services Housing Services Victims of Domestic Violence Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for domestic violence victims throughout the jurisdiction. In person consultation was also conducted to gather domestic violence information and data utilized in the development of the consolidated plan. 8 Agency/Group/Organization Keystone Opportunity Center Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Services Housing Services homeless Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs Families with children

8 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 9 Agency/Group/Organization Building Inspection Service Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Business Leaders Housing Need Assessment Business C.E.O. participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 10 Agency/Group/Organization ST. MARY'S MEDICAL CENTER Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Services Housing Services Children Services Elderly Persons Services Persons with Disabilities Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services Victims of Domestic Violence Services homeless Services Health Health Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Business and Civic Leaders Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 7

9 11 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Housing Group Inc Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services Children Services homeless Service Fair Housing Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 12 Agency/Group/Organization BUCKS COUNTY OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services homeless Services Education Services Employment Community Action Agency Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 13 Agency/Group/Organization WARMINSTER TOWNSHIP Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Other government Local Housing Need Assessment Market Analysis Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 8

10 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 14 Agency/Group/Organization Valley Youth House Committee, Inc Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services Children Services Persons with Disabilities Services homeless Services Education Services Employment 15 Agency/Group/Organization PENN FOUNDATION Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. Housing Services Persons with Disabilities Services homeless Services Health Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless, low income, and special needs households throughout the jurisdiction. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 9

11 16 Agency/Group/Organization Advocates For The Homeless and Those In Need Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services homeless Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homelessness Needs Veterans Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 17 Agency/Group/Organization Schlupp's Maintenance Co. Inc Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Business and Civic Leaders Housing Need Assessment Small business owner participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 18 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Commissioners Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Other government County Housing Need Assessment Non Homeless Special Needs Economic Development Market Analysis In person consultation was conducted with each commissioner in order to assess housing and nonhousing community development needs and identify goals and strategies for implementation. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 10

12 19 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Health Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Services Children Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services Health Health Agency Housing Need Assessment Non Homeless Special Needs In person consultation was conducted to determine the characteristics and housing needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS in the jurisdiction. 20 Agency/Group/Organization NETWORK OF VICTIM ASSISTANCE Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Services Victims Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs Families with children Non Homeless Special Needs In person consultation was conducted to determine the characteristics and housing needs of victims of sexual assault, dating violence and stalking throughout the jurisdiction. 21 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Children and Youth Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Services Housing Services Children Services homeless Services Education Services Employment Child Welfare Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government County Housing Need Assessment Lead based Paint Strategy Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 11

13 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 22 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Planning Commission Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Other government County Planning organization Housing Need Assessment Economic Development Market Analysis In person consultation was conducted to determine housing and non housing needs throughout the jurisdiction. 23 Agency/Group/Organization Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services Housing Services Children Services Elderly Persons Services Persons with Disabilities Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services Victims of Domestic Violence Services homeless Services Health Services Education Services Employment Service Fair Housing Services Victims Planning organization Business and Civic Leaders Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 12

14 What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Need Assessment Public Housing Needs Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Veterans Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Anti poverty Strategy Consultation was conducted with the HCoCBC and the Housing Advisory Board to determine homeless needs throughout the jurisdiction. Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting All required agency types were consulted during the Consolidated Planning Process. 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? Continuum of Care Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development Bucks County Comprehensive Plan 2011 Bucks County Planning Commission Bucks County Human Services Bucks County Office of Human Services Block Grant Table 3 Other local / regional / federal planning efforts Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan (91.215(l)) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 13

15 PR 15 Citizen Participation , , (c) 1. Summary of citizen participation process/efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal setting Bucks County followed its established Citizen Participation Plan by encouraging a broad range of citizen participation in the development of the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. The Bucks County Housing Advisory Board (HAB) conducted Listening Sessions on February 26 and March 9, 2015 that were attended by 109 community members and HAB Board representatives. These Listening Sessions provided an opportunity to solicit input on housing and community development needs from a wide range of organizations including housing and service providers, local government leaders, and other community organizations. Two listening sessions geared toward consumers were also conducted by two housing providers in an effort to gain input and insight into the needs of low income residents. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) published a Public Notice in a newspaper of local circulation to notify county residents of the development of the Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan and to solicit input on community needs and potential uses of CDBG, HOME and ESG funds. The Notice provided information on the amount of assistance expected to be available, the range of activities that may be undertaken, and the estimated funding amount to benefit low and moderate income residents. The DCHD telephone number and address were also provided to allow citizens to obtain more information or make comments throughout the development of the Plan. A Public Meeting was held on May 4, 2015 in order to afford citizens an opportunity to point out housing and community development needs, propose uses for funds and obtain more information about these programs. No comments were received; a copy of the minutes is attached. In preparation for development of the Annual Action Plan, the DHCD solicited funding proposals from eligible municipal and non profit organizations throughout the jurisdiction, including those serving minority groups, persons with limited English skills, and persons with disabilities. Detailed instructions were provided including a description of the full application process, program priority areas, and the criteria to be used in application scoring. The DHCD provided technical assistance to interested applicants as necessary to facilitate the application process. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 14

16 Citizen Participation Outreach Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch Target of Outrea ch 1 Public Meeting Nontargeted/broad community Summary of response/attenda nce A public meeting was held to collect input on the development and review of the Consolidated Plan prior to approval by the Bucks County Commissioners. Summary of comments receiv ed No comments were received. Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons Not Applicable URL (If applicable) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 15

17 Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch 2 Internet Outreach Target of Outrea ch Minorities Persons with disabilities Nontargeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Summary of response/attenda nce Information on available funding, applications and detailed instructions were ed to jurisdiction municipalities and non profit organizations. Summary of comments receiv ed Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable) low income residents Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 16

18 Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch 3 Community Listening Sessions Target of Outrea ch Persons with disabilities Nontargeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Summary of response/attenda nce Two listening sessions were held with 109 attendees representing local government, housing and service providers, mental health and children and youth agencies, corrections and private business. Summary of comments receiv ed System coordination is needed to maximize available resources; transportation is an issue for many families, especially in the lower part of the county; there is not enough housing that is affordable to low and very low income residents; rapid re housing has been a successful initiative and should be expanded. Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons All comments were accepted. URL (If applicable) om Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 17

19 Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch 4 Community Listening Sessions Target of Outrea ch Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Summary of response/attenda nce Four listening sessions were held by two prominent county housing providers and attended by 23 housing participants. Summary of comments receiv ed Wages are not high enough for many to afford housing; more supports are needed to maintain housing; Accessing resources is confusing; transportation is an issue for many; more Section 8 and subsidized housing is needed. Table 4 Citizen Participation Outreach Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons All comments were accepted. URL (If applicable) om Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 18

20 Needs Assessment NA 05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview The Needs Assessment findings are based on an analysis of Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data and corresponding tables, the 2010 Census, American Community Survey (ACS) 5 Year Estimates and the Bucks County s 2011 Comprehensive Plan. Bucks County has a population of 625,249 and is comprised of 234,849 households (2010 Census). Income levels in the suburban Philadelphia region are among the highest in the state with the median 2010 household income in Bucks County at $70,999. Bucks County s AMI was somewhat less than two of its three suburban counterparts (Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties), but far exceeded the Pennsylvania median of $49,288. The median income figure in Bucks County obscures some sharp variations in income level. Certain types of households, for example, singles, households composed of unrelated people and those headed by women, are far more likely to have lower than median incomes. Families headed by women and people living alone are two of the groups that are disproportionately affected by housing costs. The number of female householder and no husband present families (singlemother families) has grown dramatically, and so has the gap between their incomes and those of married couple families. Overall, the poverty rate in Bucks County is 6.2% as of 2010, and 40% of all households fall in the low and moderate income range (0% 80% AMI). According to the American Communities Survey and HUD, the average home value in Bucks County is $300,900 and the Area Median Rent is $1,107. The high cost of housing makes securing and maintaining housing, both through rental and ownership, a challenge for many Bucks County residents. Housing cost burden is by far the most common housing problem among both renters and owners in Bucks County. A household is considered to have a housing cost burden if their housing costs exceed 30% of their income. Many households in Bucks County also experience severe housing cost burden, defined as housing costs greater than 50% of household income. Of the 50,995 households with one or more housing problem (lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, overcrowding, and cost burden), 97% of all households report cost burden as their main housing problem Census estimates put the countywide percentage of owner occupied housing at 77%. Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 19

21 There are no disproportionately greater needs based on race and ethnicity in regard to housing problems in Bucks County. Among non housing related community development needs, water and sewer improvements, street improvements, and sidewalks top the list of Public Improvement needs. Public service needs identified and addressed in this plan include emergency homeless shelter operations, senior centers and housing legal services. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 20

22 NA 10 Housing Needs Assessment 24 CFR , 24 CFR (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs Bucks County has a population of 625,249 and is comprised of 234,849 households. (2010 Census). Almost half (49%) of all households are considered small family households, defined as households containing 2 4 related members. One third (30%) of all households contain at least one person age 62 or older and 11% of all households have one or more children 6 years old or younger. Housing cost burden is by far the most common housing problem experienced by both renters and owners in Bucks County. The number of owners who experience the problem of housing cost burden (23,642) is 27% more than the number of renters (18,538). The number of owners who have a severe housing cost burden of more than 50% of income (12,872) is 29% more than the number of renters (10,014). Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2010 % Change Population 597, ,249 5% Households 218, ,849 7% Median Income $0.00 $70, Table 5 Housing Needs Assessment Demographics Alternate Data Source Name: American Community Survey 5 Year Estimat Data Source Comments: Number of Households Table 0 30% >30 50% >50 80% >80 100% >100% HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI Total Households * 15,323 17,564 29,885 21, ,995 Small Family Households * 3,468 4,407 9,444 9,298 75,910 Large Family Households * ,341 1,915 13,172 Household contains at least one person years of age 3,095 4,133 7,011 4,293 20,858 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older 4,656 5,505 5,652 2,659 7,441 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger * 1,407 2,092 3,720 3,397 13,278 Data Source: * the highest income category for these family types is >80% HAMFI Table 6 Total Households Table CHAS Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 21

23 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) 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) 5,994 2, ,714 4,515 3,988 4,340 1,795 Total 14,63 8 Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 22

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 Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 808 2,850 4,565 1,029 9,252 1,266 3,472 5,962 5,116 Total 15,81 6 Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) 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 6,298 3,151 1, ,869 4,575 4,078 4,495 1,904 15,052 Having none of four housing problems 1,885 4,042 8,686 5,126 19,739 1,804 6,297 15,449 14,005 37,555 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems Table 8 Housing Problems 2 Total Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 23

25 Data Source: CHAS 3. Cost Burden > 30% 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI Total 0 30% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 1,729 2,061 1,490 5,280 1,425 1,554 4,325 7,304 Large Related ,203 1,809 Elderly 2,834 2,054 1,442 6,330 3,308 4,277 2,979 10,564 Other 2,263 1,510 2,373 6, ,160 1,832 3,965 Total need by income Data Source: CHAS >30 50% AMI Total 7,042 5,918 5,578 18,538 5,810 7,493 10,339 23,642 Table 9 Cost Burden > 30% 4. Cost Burden > 50% 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 1, ,542 1,312 1,243 2,004 4,559 Large Related Elderly 2,395 1, ,092 2,231 1,395 1,019 4,645 Other 2, , ,745 Total need by income Data Source: CHAS Total 6,226 2, ,014 4,536 4,004 4,332 12,872 Table 10 Cost Burden > 50% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 24

26 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 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI Total Households with Children Present Data Source Comments: Table 12 Crowding Information 2/2 Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance. Single person households comprise 23.8% of all households in Bucks County. During 2014, the Bucks County Housing Link/Coordinated Assessment assessed 196 single person households in need of housing assistance. Of those assessed, 51% were single men and 49% were single women. It was determined that 59% were literally homeless, ie. living on the streets or places not meant for human habitation. Thirty percent of the single person households were at imminent risk of losing their housing and becoming homeless. Of the 196 households assessed, 62% (122 households) needed only shortterm rental assistance and light touch case management to resolve their housing crisis. Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 25

27 In 2014, the Housing Link assessed 338 households in need of housing assistance that had one or more reported disability. Of those, 54% were single adult households, 33% were households with children, and 13% were adult couples. The January 2014 Point In Time Count (PIT) identified 30 domestic violence (DV) victims in emergency shelters and transitional housing in Bucks County. There were no unsheltered DV victims living on the street or places not meant for human habitation. A Woman s Place (AWP), Bucks County s Domestic Violence Agency, provides a wide range of services and support for victims and their families. AWP provides housing assistance to victims via a full service shelter in a confidential and secure location. During 2014, AWP received 413 calls for housing assistance via its Domestic Violence Hotline. Of those calling for assistance, 51% were White (171), 41% were African American (136), 7% were Latino or Hispanic, and less than 1% (3) were American Indian and Asian. AWP provided shelter to 47 women and 59 children during Of those assisted, 51% were White, 26% were African American, 17% were Hispanic 4% were Other/Unknown and 2% were Asian. The volume of calls for housing assistance for domestic violence victims and their families far outweighs AWP s resources. Callers are referred to the Housing Link and are also provided information on domestic violence shelters in neighboring counties if AWP is unable to provide housing assistance. The Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) reported approximately 75 cases of stalking/sexual assault during 2014 in which the victims were in need of housing assistance. What are the most common housing problems? In terms of sheer numbers, housing cost burden is the most common housing problem among renters and owners in Bucks County. Of the 50,995 households with one or more housing problem (lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, overcrowding, and cost burden), 97% of all households report cost burden as their main housing problem. There are 1,092 households in Bucks County who are living in overcrowded housing situations; 86% of these households fall in the low and moderate income categories (0 80% AMI). Renters are more likely to experience overcrowding than owners and represent 73% of all households in this category. Among households who report substandard housing (lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities) 63% are low income renters (0 50% AMI) and 43% are low income owners (0 50% AMI). Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems? Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 26

28 Many homeowners struggle to maintain housing stability due to housing cost burden. In fact, the number of owners who experience the problem of housing cost burden over 30% of income (23,642) is 27% more than the number of renters (18,538). The number of owners who have a severe housing cost burden of more than 50% of income (12,872) is 29% more than the number of renters (10,014). Census estimates for 2010 put the countywide percentage of owner occupied housing at 77%. Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Housing cost burden disproportionately impacts low income residents with 92% of households reporting a housing problem falling in the low and moderate income range (0 80% AMI). Elderly households are the most likely to experience housing cost burden (41% owners, 36% renters). Describe the characteristics and needs of Low income individuals and families with children (especially extremely low income) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered (c)/91.305(c)). Also discuss the needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re housing assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance The Housing Link assessed approximately 276 households in 2014 that were at imminent risk of losing their housing. Of these, 69% (191 households) were already receiving some type of County assistance, 24% (65 households) were about two weeks away from eviction, and 21% (57 heads of households) had one or more reported disabling condition. Of the 276 households at risk of losing their housing, 61% (169 households) only needed short term rental assistance and light touch case management to resolve their housing crisis. Nine percent (25 households) needed long term housing assistance coupled with supportive services. Three main areas of need have been identified for families and individuals who are receiving rapid rehousing assistance and nearing the termination of that assistance. These needs include reliable transportation, financial management and budgeting skills, and connections to community supports and services in order to maintain permanent housing long term. It is essential in Bucks County to have reliable transportation to maintain employment. With limited public transportation, individuals and families rely on their own vehicle to access work and school. Without transportation, they are at risk of losing employment and returning to homelessness. The second identified need is financial management and budgeting. As the name indicates, rapid rehousing is a short term program with a focus on permanent housing. Those exiting the program often have difficulty with basic household budgeting skills, especially with limited income. They need assistance managing monthly bills and budgeting for emergencies. The third identified need is follow up case management for support while in the community. Those exiting rapid rehousing have resolved the immediate housing issue but need additional supports to keep and maintain housing. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 27

29 If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at risk population(s), it should also include a description of the operational definition of the at risk group and the methodology used to generate the estimates: The definition of the at risk includes an individual or family who will imminently lose (within 14 days) their primary nighttime residence provided that no subsequent residence has been identified and the individual or family lacks the resources or support networks needed to obtain other permanent housing. The estimates were generated based on data provided by the Bucks County Housing Link/coordinated assessment program and the County s Homeless Management Information System. Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness Characteristics linked to instability and increased risk of homelessness in Bucks County are low wage jobs, unemployment, mental illness (often undiagnosed or untreated), lack of post secondary education or trade, large family size, substance abuse history or active use, lack of affordable childcare resources, insufficient family income to support entire household budget without subsidy (these are households over income for government assistance), and finally high cost of housing in Bucks County. Discussion Although the overall poverty rate is low in Bucks County, 6.2% as of 2010, 40% of all households are considered low/moderate income, earning 0 80% of the Annual Median Income (AMI). The poverty rate climbs to more than 15% among households headed by women, and is higher (17.5%) for non family households composed of unrelated individuals. A far greater share of single mother families lives in poverty, compared to married couple or single father families. Income well in excess of the poverty rate is required to adequately support housing and living costs for a family. In Bucks County, 57% of all families that include one member age 62 and older are low/moderate AMI, as are 45% of all families that include one or more children under age 6. Twenty six percent of all small families (households comprised of 2 4 people) are low/moderate AMI. According to the American Communities Survey and HUD, the average home value in Bucks County is $300,900 and the Area Median Rent is $1,107. The high cost of housing make securing and maintaining housing, both through rental and ownership, a challenge for many Bucks County residents. Housing cost burden is by far the most common problem experienced by both homeowners and renters and increased affordable housing opportunities are needed throughout the jurisdiction. Increasing affordable housing will be accomplished through investments in construction of new affordable housing units for both renters and homeowners, acquisition and rehabilitation of housing units, and rental assistance in the form of Tenant Based Rental Assistance and Rapid Re Housing. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 28

30 NA 15 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Problems , (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction According to the 2010 US Census, the total population of Bucks County is 625,249. The racial/ethnic breakdown is as follows: White 86.9% (543,207), Hispanic or Latino 4.3% (26,782), 3.8% (23,893) Asian, 3.4% (21,454) Black or African American, and 1.3% (8,212) Two or more races. A disproportionately greater need exists when the members of a racial or ethnic group at a given income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10 percentage points or more) than the income level as a whole. For the purposes of this analysis, housing problems are defined as: lacks complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, more than one person per room, and cost burden greater than 30%. There are 51,125 households in Bucks County that are experiencing one or more of four housing problems (i.e. 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, and 4. Cost Burden greater than 30%). Of those households having one or more of four housing problems, 89% are White, 5% are Black or African American, 4% are Hispanic or Latino, and 2% are Asian. 0% 30% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 13,476 1,880 1,263 White 11,440 1,751 1,138 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 13 Disproportionally Greater Need 0 30% AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 29

31 30% 50% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 13,358 4,568 0 White 11,709 4,245 0 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 14 Disproportionally Greater Need 30 50% AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% 50% 80% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 16,042 15,003 0 White 14,362 13,555 0 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 15 Disproportionally Greater Need 50 80% AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 30

32 80% 100% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 8,249 13,683 0 White 7,614 12,403 0 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 16 Disproportionally Greater Need % AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Discussion Eighty one percent of all households in the 0 30% AMI category experience one or more housing problem. Hispanic households in this income category experience housing problems at a disproportionate rate (93%) compared to the jurisdiction as a whole. Hispanic households comprise 5% of the total households in the 0 30% AMI category. Seventy five percent of households earning 30% 50% AMI experience one or more housing problem. Blacks/African Americans and Hispanics in this category have a disproportionate need, with 85% of all Black/African American Households and 89% of Hispanic households experiencing housing problems. Black/African Americans comprise 5% of the total households in this category and Hispanic households make up 4%. Fifty two percent of all moderate income households (50% 80% AMI) experience one or more housing problem. Asian households in this income category experience housing problems at a disproportionate rate (66%) compared to the jurisdiction as a whole. Asian households comprise 2% of the total households in the 50% 80% AMI category. There are no disproportionate needs identified for households experiencing housing problems in the 80% 100% AMI. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 31

33 NA 20 Disproportionately Greater Need: Severe Housing Problems , (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction There are 25,210 households in Bucks County that have one or more of four severe housing problems (i.e. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, and 4. Cost burden over 50%). 0% 30% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 11,103 4,262 1,263 White 9,254 3,924 1,138 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 17 Severe Housing Problems 0 30% AMI *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% 30% 50% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 6,669 11,244 0 White 6,069 9,883 0 Black / African American Asian Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 32

34 Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 18 Severe Housing Problems 30 50% AMI *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% 50% 80% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 5,366 25,672 0 White 4,981 22,936 0 Black / African American 63 1,156 0 Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 19 Severe Housing Problems 50 80% AMI *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 33

35 80% 100% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 2,072 19,866 0 White 1,814 18,238 0 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 20 Severe Housing Problems % AMI *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% Discussion Sixty seven percent of all households in the 0 30% AMI category experience one or more severe housing problem. Black/African American, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN), and Hispanic households in this income category have a disproportionate need, with 83% of Black/African American, 80% of AI/AN, and 79% of Hispanic households experiencing severe housing problems. Black/African Americans comprise 7%, AI/AN households comprise less than 1%, and Hispanic households comprise 5% of the total households in the 0 30% AMI category. Thirty one percent of households earning 30% 50% AMI experience one or more severe housing problem. There are no disproportionate need any racial/ethnic group in this income category. Seventeen percent of all moderate income households (50% 80% AMI) experience one or more severe housing problem. Asian households in this income category experience housing problems at a disproportionate rate (27%) compared to the jurisdiction as a whole. Asian households comprise less than 2% of the total households in the 50% 80% AMI category. Nine percent of the households in the 80% 100% AMI category experience severe housing problems. Asian households in this income category experience housing problems at a disproportionate rate (18%) compared to the jurisdiction as a whole. Asian households comprise 3% of the total households in the 50% 80% AMI category. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 34

36 NA 25 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens , (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction Bucks County has 67,811 households experiencing a housing cost burden of greater than 30% of the household income. Of this number, 38% (26,104 households) are experiencing severe cost burden, in which housing costs exceed 50% of the household income. Housing Cost Burden Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30 50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) Jurisdiction as a whole 137,679 41,707 26,104 1,263 White 126,940 37,269 23,262 1,138 Black / African American 2,952 1,668 1, Asian 3,803 1, American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic 2,828 1,244 1,001 4 Data Source: CHAS Table 21 Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens AMI Discussion As discussed in the previous section, the total population of Bucks County is 625,249. The racial/ethnic breakdown is as follows: White 86.9% (543,207), Hispanic or Latino 4.3% (26,782), 3.8% (23,893) Asian, 3.4% (21,454) Black or African American, and 1.3% (8,212) Two or more races. Of the 41,707 households experiencing housing cost burden (30 50% of household income), 90% are White, 4% are Black or African American, 3% are Asian, and 3% are Hispanic or Latino. Of the 26,104 households experiencing a severe housing cost (>50% of household income), 89% are White, 5% Black or African American, 4% Hispanic or Latino and 2% Asian. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 35

37 Thirteen percent of households in the >50% AMI category experience one or more severe housing problem. Black/African American, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN), and Hispanic households in this income category have a disproportionate need, with 21% of Black/African American, 36% of AI/AN, and 20% of Hispanic households experiencing a housing cost burden. There are no other disproportionate needs identified for other income categories for housing cost burden. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 36

38 NA 30 Disproportionately Greater Need: Discussion (b)(2) Are there any Income categories in which a racial or ethnic group has disproportionately greater need than the needs of that income category as a whole? Please see detailed discussion in the previous sections. If they have needs not identified above, what are those needs? Are any of those racial or ethnic groups located in specific areas or neighborhoods in your community? Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 37

39 NA 35 Public Housing , (b) Introduction The Bucks County Housing Authority (BCHA) is by far the largest provider of housing assistance in Bucks County. BCHA manages 1,262 housing units and administers 2,801 tenant and project based vouchers. Public Housing: The BCHA operates 648 Public Housing (PH) units distributed among 7 properties located primarily in lower Bucks County. A table is included detailing the size, location and household type for each property. The vast majority of BCHA s PH units are dedicated to seniors and the disabled. Of the 648 PH units available, only 11% (74 units) are available for families. The remaining 89% of PH units (574) are available for seniors and those with disabilities. Section 8 Tenant Based Vouchers: Although the BCHA s annual contract with HUD allows the BCHA to issue up to 3,399 Vouchers, high rents in Bucks County and cuts due to sequestration have resulted in BCHA being able to only support and administer 2,598 tenant based vouchers. In order to maintain a pool of decent private rental units available to Voucher holders, the BCHA s most recently approved 5 Year Plan sets the Voucher payment standards at 110% of the Fair Market Rent with plans to request HUD to approve an Exception Payment Standard of up to 120% of FMR if funding allows. Even with approximately 30 Vouchers being returned each month to the BCHA through attrition, the BCHA struggles to cover the cost of administering the program and providing housing assistance for the Vouchers currently issued. The Voucher waiting list has been closed for the last five years but is scheduled to re open in the Spring/Summer of Other assisted units: The BCHA manages an additional 614 multi family units throughout Bucks County including 348 new Section 8 Construction Units, 28 USDA Units, 60 Tax Credit Units and 128 Units owned by the BCHA. Other Vouchers: The BCHA administers 175 project based vouchers and 28 Special Purpose Vouchers. Of these, 21 are dedicated to the Family Unification Program and 7 are used to provide housing assistance to Veterans. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 38

40 Totals in Use Certificate Mod Rehab Public Housing Program Type Vouchers Total Project based Tenant based Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Special Purpose Voucher Family Unification Program Disabled * # of units vouchers in use , , Table 22 Public Housing by Program Type *includes Non Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One Year, Mainstream Five year, and Nursing Home Transition Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Characteristics of Residents Certificate Mod Rehab Program Type Public Housing Vouchers Total Project based Tenant based Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 39 Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Average Annual Income ,500 13,807 15,262 13,698 15,377 14,610 Average length of stay Average Household size # Homeless at admission # of Elderly Program Participants (>62) # of Disabled Families , , # of Families requesting accessibility features , ,

41 Certificate Mod Rehab Program Type Public Housing Vouchers Total Project based Tenant based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program # of HIV/AIDS program participants # of DV victims Table 23 Characteristics of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Race of Residents Race Certificate Mod Rehab Public Housing Program Type Vouchers Total Project based Tenant based Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 40 Special Purpose Voucher Family Unification Program Disabled * White , , Black/African American Asian American Indian/Alaska Native Pacific Islander Other *includes Non Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One Year, Mainstream Five year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 24 Race of Public Housing Residents by Program Type

42 Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Ethnicity of Residents Ethnicity Certificate Mod Rehab Public Housing Program Type Vouchers Total Project based Tenant based Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Special Purpose Voucher Family Unification Program Disabled * Hispanic Not Hispanic , , *includes Non Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One Year, Mainstream Five year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 25 Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 41

43 Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants on the waiting list for accessible units: The BCHA collects tenant accessibility need status upon application. There are currently 20 applicants on the waiting list who have requested an accessible unit. Section 8 Voucher recipients who require accessible units independently locate their housing units upon receipt of their voucher. The Section 8 waiting list in Bucks County has been closed for approximately 5 years, therefore no new Section 8 tenants are currently searching for accessible units. What are the number and type of families on the waiting lists for public housing and section 8 tenant based rental assistance? Based on the information above, and any other information available to the jurisdiction, what are the most immediate needs of residents of public housing and Housing Choice voucher holders? According to the Bucks County Housing Authority s 2012 Annual Plan, there were 790 households on the Public Housing (PH) waiting list. Seventy one percent of those on the PH waiting list are extremely low income, earning less than 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Forty one percent are elderly families and 34% are families with disabilities. The average wait time for PH is one year. The Section 8 waiting list has been closed to new applicants since 2010; there were 1,651 families on the Section 8 waiting list as of the 2012 Annual Plan. 69% of families on the Section 8 waiting list are extremely low income, earning less than 30% AMI. 52% are families with children and 38% are families with disabilities. The majority of PH residents are senior citizens with the average age of residents steadily climbing higher. In fact, the average age of a PH resident upon admission is 78 years old. These residents require additional support services to ensure they can remain in independent permanent housing. The BCHA contracts with community agencies including the Family Service Association and the Area Agency on Aging to provide elderly residents with necessary services including housekeeping, transportation, meals, etc. While residents of PH and Section 8 Voucher holders do not experience cost burden, as their out ofpocket housing costs do not exceed 30% of their household income, these residents tend to be very low income with an average income of $16,500 for Section 8 and $13,807 for PH residents. Many of the residents require community supports to access mainstream benefits, health and treatment services, and transportation services in order to maintain their housing. How do these needs compare to the housing needs of the population at large The needs of residents of the BCHA programs mirror the needs of the population at large in terms of additional community and support services. BCHA residents are not impacted by housing affordability or substandard housing issues as rents are capped at 30% of the household income and the BCHA Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 42

44 conducts inspections of all units supported by the Section 8 Voucher program to ensure housing quality standards are met. Discussion The Bucks County Housing Authority (BCHA) manages 648 Public Housing (PH) units and administers 2,801 tenant and project based vouchers (Section 8). Public Housing: The average PH household is considered very low income with an average annual income of $16,500. PH residents pay roughly 30% of their adjusted income toward rent. The average PH rent amount is $412. The majority of PH residents (87.5%) are elderly, in fact, the average age of a PH resident upon move in is 78 years old. Approximately 5% of all PH residents are considered disabled. Eighty six percent of PH residents are White, 12.5% are Black/African American, 1% are Asian. Four percent of PH residents are Hispanic. The average length of stay in a PH unit is 6 years. Section 8 Vouchers: The average Section 8 household is considered very low income with an average income of $13,807. Similar to the PH program, Section 8 households pay a Total Tenant Payment equal to 30% of their adjusted income toward the cost of housing (rent and utilities). The Average Total Tenant Payment for BCHA is $ The majority (65%) of Section 8 Vouchers support family households (2 or more people) and 39% of voucher holders are considered disabled. Seventy five percent of Section 8 Voucher households are White, 23% Black/African American, and 2% are Asian. Eight percent of Voucher holders are Hispanic. The average length of participation in Section 8 is 7 years. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 43

45 NA 40 Homeless Needs Assessment , (c) Introduction: The Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County (CoC), working in conjunction with the DHCD, conducts a Point In Time Count (PIT) in January of each year to determine the number of sheltered and unsheltered homeless residents. The 2014 PIT information has been used in conjunction with data from the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and the Bucks County Housing Link to determine the information provided in Table 23 Homeless Needs Assessment. There were 310 homeless persons residing in a shelter or transitional housing on the night of the 2014 PIT. The PIT also identified 154 individuals who were unsheltered, or sleeping in a place not meant for human habitation (streets, car, etc.). The CoC estimates that 1,356 Bucks County residents experience homelessness each year. The majority of these households include families with children (58%), followed by households with only adults (35%). Households with only children represent 8% of the households experiencing homelessness each year. There are approximately 631 homeless individuals who are able to secure permanent housing and exit the homeless system each year. Sixty six percent of those who exit homelessness are in households with children and 18% are households with only adults. 9% of the households exiting homelessness are in households with only children. As a mainly suburban area within the Philadelphia metropolitan area, Bucks County does not contain any housing that would be considered rural. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 44

46 Homeless Needs Assessment Population Estimate the # of persons experiencing homelessness on a given night Estimate the # experiencing homelessness each year Estimate the # becoming homeless each year Estimate the # exiting homelessness each year Estimate the # of days persons experience homelessness Unsheltered Sheltered Persons in Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) Persons in Households with Only Children Persons in Households with Only Adults Chronically Homeless Individuals Chronically Homeless Families Veterans Unaccompanied Child Persons with HIV Data Source Comments: Table 26 Homeless Needs Assessment Indicate if the homeless population is: Has No Rural Homeless Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 45

47 Nature and Extent of Homelessness: (Optional) Race: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional) White 0 0 Black or African American 0 0 Asian 0 0 American Indian or Alaska Native 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 Ethnicity: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional) Hispanic 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 Data Source Comments: Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance for families with children and the families of veterans. Homeless families with children (comprised of at least one adult and one child) make up 38% of all homeless households in Bucks County. The 2014 Point in Time Count (PIT) identified 166 households in this category comprised of 120 adults and 194 children under age 18. Young adults (ages 18 24) comprise 36% of all adults in this category. Many of the housing and homeless service providers in Bucks prioritize housing for homeless households with children to ensure these families are not living on the streets. The 2014 PIT did not identify any unsheltered households with children. Households with children are far more likely to be placed in transitional housing rather than remaining in emergency shelters. Of the 166 households with children, 86% of these families were residing in transitional housing while 14% were utilizing emergency shelter services. Veteran households represent approximately 2% (12 households) of all homeless households in Bucks County. All veterans identified on the PIT were residing in an emergency shelter. No veterans were identified as unsheltered. Describe the Nature and Extent of Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group. Bucks County s 2014 Point in Time Count (PIT) identified 492 homeless individuals residing in emergency shelters, transitional housing, or sleeping on the streets. Ninety percent of Bucks County s homeless population was housed in either emergency shelters or in transitional housing programs (464 individuals). Only 10% (28 individuals) were identified as unsheltered. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 46

48 Sixty one percent of the homeless individuals identified in the 2014 PIT were White, 29% were Black/African American, 9% identified as Multiple Races, and 1% were Asian/Pacific Islanders. Seventyeight percent of the homeless population were Non Hispanic/Non Latino. Among those residing in emergency shelters, 68% identified as White, 25% Black/African American, and 7% Multiple Races. Of the households residing in transitional housing, 55% identified as White, 34% Black/African American, 11% multiple races and 1% Asian or Pacific Islander. Finally, those individuals who were unsheltered or living on the streets, 93% identified as White and 7% Black/African American. Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness. Bucks County s 2014 Point in Time Count (PIT) identified 492 individuals (279 households) who were homeless and residing in emergency shelters, transitional housing, or sleeping on the streets. Ninety percent of Bucks County s homeless population is considered sheltered, residing in either an emergency shelter or in transitional housing. Emergency Shelters: Forty percent of all homeless people (154 persons/112 households) were residing in an emergency shelter on the night of the PIT. The majority of adults in emergency shelters (77%) were adults over the age of 24 (97 persons). There were 34 children under the age of 18, and 12 young adults ages The gender distribution at the emergency shelters is fairly evenly divided among males (53%) and females (47%). Transitional Housing: The majority of homeless people (310 persons/139 households) in Bucks County reside in transitional housing (typically limited to 24 months assistance). Two thirds of all transitional housing households are households with children. In fact, 51% of the persons living in transitional housing are children under age 18. Females are four times more likely to reside in transitional housing than males (71%). Unsheltered: Approximately 6% of the homeless persons identified in the PIT were living on the streets and considered unsheltered (28 single person households). The majority of unsheltered homeless were single males over age 24 (93%, 26 individuals). There were 2 individuals who were young adults aged and no children under the age of 18 were identified. Of the 27 chronically homeless individuals identified, 11 were unsheltered (41%). Discussion: Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 47

49 NA 45 Non Homeless Special Needs Assessment , (b,d) Introduction The Bucks County Division of Human Services oversees the County administered programs that deliver social services and mental wellness to residents of Bucks County. These programs include the Area Agency on Aging (AAA), Children and Youth Social Service Agency (C&Y), and the Mental/Health Developmental Programs (MHDP). The Division also has administrative oversight of four quasi County agencies which include the Bucks County Workforce Investment Board, the Behavioral Health System, the Drug and Alcohol Commission and the Bucks County Opportunity Council. These departments and agencies actively participate in the Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County (CoC) to identify needs and gaps in services for the non homeless, special needs populations. The MH/DP department actively participates on a number of CoC subcommittees and co chairs the Local Housing Options Team to coordinate housing and support services to individuals with behavioral/mental health needs. Describe the characteristics of special needs populations in your community: What are the housing and supportive service needs of these populations and how are these needs determined? Discuss the size and characteristics of the population with HIV/AIDS and their families within the Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area: According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH), there were 786 people living with HIV/AIDS in Bucks County in HIV/AIDS statistics for Bucks County are reported via the PADOH AIDS Activities Coordinating Office which oversees a five county region including Bucks, Delaware, Chester, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties. Of the five county region, Bucks County s HIV/AIDS population is the fourth lowest, comprising only 3% of the region s total HIV/AIDS population. The demographic breakdown for the 5 County Region are as follows: 71% male, 29% female; 23% White, 60% are Black or African American, and 13% are Hispanic. The majority of residents living with HIV/AIDS are adults with 27% are age 20 29, 33% are age 30 39, and 23% are age While Bucks County is not a direct recipient of HOPWA funding, the Family Service Association of Bucks County operates two HIV/AIDS dedicated programs, Bucks Villa and a tenant based HOPWA rental assistance program. The lack of transportation services in Bucks County is a deterrent to some potential residents of Bucks Villa. Bucks Villa is in New Hope, and while there are businesses to which residents can walk, some who Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 48

50 need to travel to work far from Bucks Villa are reluctant to live there. In addition, Bucks Villa only serves individuals and cannot accommodate couples, families or children. Some of the challenges with HOPWA placements have been: Clients who have been approved for the program but whose poor credit ratings or prior eviction histories prevent them from finding suitable housing. Clients not being able to get placement because they have no income. Limited availability of handicap accessible units. Decline in landlords willing to partner with any subsidy program. Additionally, there are also certain cultural groups that are faced with barriers due to family dynamics, immigration status and language limitations. The Spanish speaking only population continues to be underserved and underrepresented. Discussion: Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 49

51 NA 50 Non Housing Community Development Needs , (f) Describe the jurisdiction s need for Public Facilities: Public facilities provided by the county, municipalities and private organizations address the health, education and public safety needs of Bucks County residents. The service responsibility and authority for public facilities is divided among many entities, each with its own resources and sources of funding. Consequently, the county s control over public facilities has been limited to agencies which are part of county government, or to those facilities the county is mandated to fund or oversee as required through state or federal regulations. Bucks County residents expressed opinions about public facilities through the 2011 Comprehensive Plan survey and at stakeholder meetings as part of the comprehensive planning process. Stakeholders expressed support for specific facilities and services, however, overall the public facilities were viewed as being very satisfactory. From , Bucks County allocated 21% of its CDBG funding to address improvements to public facilities based on requests by eligible municipalities and non profit organizations. The most common requests for public facilities funding included handicap accessibility improvements, rehabilitation of facilities serving special needs populations, and historic preservation. The most common project requests included parking lot improvements, ADA renovations, renovations to group homes, and replacement of windows and roofs. How were these needs determined? The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) conducted surveys with stakeholders and County and municipal leaders to determine the public facilities needs and priorities. Additionally, the DHCD analyzed the requests for public facilities funding over a 10 year period to determine the most frequently requested public facilities needs. Describe the jurisdiction s need for Public Improvements: Many of Bucks County s Public Improvement needs fall under the responsibility of local municipalities who struggle to operate and maintain aging systems. Wastewater management, transportation safety improvements and streetscape improvements are needed to ensure a safe and well functioning infrastructure is maintained for Bucks County residents. CDBG funds may be used in eligible low/moderate income areas to strengthen, resuse, and revitalize municipalities as part of a larger revitalization plan. Efforts needed to improve the livability and vitality of Bucks County s older boroughs include Mainstreet/Downtown revitalization, reuse of industrial areas, and reuse/revitalization of shopping areas. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 50

52 Bucks County s Municipal Economic Development Program assists municipalities in identifying and planning for public improvements. More than 30 municipalities currently participate in the MEDI program and receive guidance and expertise from the Bucks County Planning Commission on data, commerce, zoning, land use planning, smart growth initiatives, transportation, community goals, and community character. From , approximately 25% of all CDBG funded projects were targeted toward public improvements. The most common project requested was roads (42%), Curbs/Sidewalks (32%), and drain and sewer improvements (23%). How were these needs determined? The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) conducted surveys with stakeholders and County and municipal leaders to determine the public improvement needs and priorities. Additionally, the DHCD analyzed the requests for public improvement funding over a 10 year period to determine the most requested public improvement needs. Describe the jurisdiction s need for Public Services: Both the federal and state governments have withdrawn or limited their involvement and funding for programs supporting many community services. As a result, service providers have been compelled to rely increasingly on local sources (private or public) to generate a greater share of funding to support and maintain services. The declines in federal and state participation have been further compounded by a number of other factors including: continued mandates and regulations without accompanying funding; revenue bases affected by the business cycle; resistance to new taxes; and a disparity between revenues and expenditures of local governments. Services and facilities face issues related to staffing, funding, training, and others which must be addressed to ensure effective services. With increased growth, community service problems may arise. They may become greatest in communities which traditionally have not provided a significant number of services, and in communities still trying to address and cope with demand from previous population growth. Many municipalities, unable to properly address the lack of certain types of services, are likely to look to the county for guidance and resources. From , approximately 15% of all CDBG funded projects were targeted toward public services. Public Services projects most requested include funding for senior centers, emergency shelters, housing legal services and the Homeless Management Information System. How were these needs determined? The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) conducted surveys with stakeholders and County and municipal leaders to determine the public services needs and priorities. Additionally, Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 51

53 the DHCD analyzed the requests for public services funding over a 10 year period to determine the most requested public service needs. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 52

54 MA 05 Overview Housing Market Analysis Overview: Housing Market Analysis Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 53

55 MA 10 Housing Market Analysis: Number of Housing Units , (a)&(b)(2) Introduction According to the 2010 Census, there are 245,945 total housing units in Bucks County. The majority of housing units are single family dwellings (62%) and consist of 155,589 detached single units and 37,650 attached single units. Approximately 19% (47,495 units) are multi family units. Two percent of housing units are mobile homes or other housing type (boat, RV, van, etc.) The vacancy rate for homeowners is 1.1% and the rental vacancy rate is 7.4% The type, age and income of households influence housing choice, access and design. The bulk of households in the county are families and couples, which suggests the county continues to retain and attract families with children. But from 2000 to 2010, the share of family households diminished, even as the share of families without children, singles and other less conventional household configurations increased. The loss (5 percent) was most evident for the traditional nuclear family form of married couples with children. Social changes such as later marriage, lower birth rates, fewer couples deciding to have children, greater geographic mobility, higher divorce rates, rising consumer expectations, and longer life spans have resulted in smaller household sizes and more people living alone. Shifts have occurred in certain age groups between 2000 and The greatest drop in population (13,885) occurred among adults in the prime home buying and family rearing years: 25 to 54. The greatest gains (36,004) occurred among aging baby boomers and other young elderly in the 55 to 74 age group. The demographic shifts in age and household size broadly suggest growth in demand for smaller, affordable, physically accessible and easily maintained housing, a trend reinforced by economic issues and consumer taste. On the other hand, the county s household size continues to skew larger than the national and state averages, a trend likely to support demand for conventional detached single family housing. All residential properties by number of units Property Type Number % 1 unit detached structure 155,589 63% 1 unit, attached structure 37,650 15% 2 4 units 15,582 6% 5 19 units 19,170 8% 20 or more units 12,743 5% Mobile Home, boat, RV, van, etc 5,222 2% Total 245, % Table 27 Residential Properties by Unit Number Alternate Data Source Name: American Community Survey 5 Year Estimat Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 54

56 Data Source Comments: Unit Size by Tenure Owners Renters Number % Number % No bedroom 122 0% 1,899 4% 1 bedroom 2,244 1% 15,959 36% 2 bedrooms 20,766 13% 17,691 40% 3 or more bedrooms 141,577 86% 8,733 20% Total 164, % 44, % Data Source: ACS Table 28 Unit Size by Tenure Describe the number and targeting (income level/type of family served) of units assisted with federal, state, and local programs. The attached Assisted Housing Units table provides a breakdown of the number of assisted units, program type, project location and type of family served. Provide an assessment of units expected to be lost from the affordable housing inventory for any reason, such as expiration of Section 8 contracts. Bucks County is not aware of any affordable housing units to be lost from the housing inventory during the term of this consolidated plan. Does the availability of housing units meet the needs of the population? Although there are enough housing units to meet the needs of the County, there are not enough affordable housing units available to meet the needs of residents with low to moderate income. This is evidenced by the fact that 67,811 households experience a housing cost burden of greater than 30% of the household income. Of this number, 38% (26,104 households) are experiencing severe cost burden, in which housing costs exceed 50% of the household income. Expand? Describe the need for specific types of housing: The county s overall housing stock is varied, although single family detached housing predominates, accounting for 63 percent of all units. The shares of single family attached (townhouse type) housing and multifamily housing (small and large apartment buildings) are about equal at 15% or so. Two percent of housing units are mobile homes or other housing type (boat, RV, van, etc.). Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 55

57 The demographic shifts in age and household size broadly suggest growth in demand for smaller, affordable, physically accessible and easily maintained housing, a trend reinforced by economic issues and consumer taste. On the other hand, the county s household size continues to skew larger than the national and state averages, a trend likely to support demand for conventional detached single family housing. Discussion According to the 2010 Census, there are 245,945 total housing units in Bucks County. The majority of housing units are single family dwellings (62%) consisting of 155,589 detached single units and 37,650 attached single units. Approximately 19% (47,495 units) are multi family units. Two percent of housing units are mobile homes or other housing type (boat, RV, van, etc.) Seventy seven percent of all housing units in Bucks County are owner occupied and 23% are rentals. The majority of owner occupied units (86%) contain 3 or more bedrooms and 13% contain 2 bedrooms. Only 1% of all 1 bedroom units are owner occupied. Rentals containing 3 bedrooms are scarce, with only 20% of all rental units containing 3 or more bedrooms. The distribution of 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom rental units are about equal, at 40% and 36% respectively. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 56

58 MA 15 Housing Market Analysis: Cost of Housing , (a) Introduction The cost of housing in most communities throughout Bucks County has risen dramatically over the past 20 years, resulting in decreased housing affordability. The median home value in Bucks County is 188% that of the Pennsylvania median home value of $164,700 (reword this). Of the 44,282 occupied rental units, approximately half (51%) cost $500 $900 per month. Twenty four percent of all rentals cost $1,000 $1,499 per month, and 11% of all rentals in Bucks County cost $1,500 or more. Almost 14% of all rentals are available at less than $500 per month. Cost of Housing Base Year: 2010 Most Recent Year: 2013 % Change Median Home Value 321, ,900 (4%) Median Contract Rent 997 1,107 11% Table 29 Cost of Housing Alternate Data Source Name: American Community Survey 5 Year Estimat Data Source Comments: Rent Paid Number % Less than $500 6, % $ , % $1,000 1,499 10, % $1,500 1,999 3, % $2,000 or more 1, % Total 44, % Data Source: ACS Table 30 Rent Paid Housing Affordability % Units affordable to Households Renter Owner earning 30% HAMFI 2,176 No Data 50% HAMFI 6,470 2,678 80% HAMFI 24,417 10, % HAMFI No Data 25,851 Total 33,063 38,716 Data Source: CHAS Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 57 Table 31 Housing Affordability

59 Monthly Rent Monthly Rent ($) Efficiency (no 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom bedroom) Fair Market Rent ,047 1,304 1,400 High HOME Rent ,079 1,307 1,400 Low HOME Rent ,060 1,182 Table 32 Monthly Rent Data Source: HUD FMR and HOME Rents Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels? Of the 33,063 rental units in Bucks County affordable to households earning less than HUD s Annual Median Family Income (100% AMI), 74% (24,417 units) are available to households earning >80% AMI. Twenty percent (6,470 units) are available to households earning >50 80% AMI, and 6.5% (2,176 units) of all rental units are available to households earning 30% AMI. Housing type diversity at the county level masks significant differences at the municipal level. Some municipalities, particularly in central Bucks or other areas of high housing costs, have few residential options that could be affordable to low/moderate income households, such as townhouses or apartments. This can be a drawback in terms of community socioeconomic, racial and ethnic diversity, access to good schools and a growing pool of suburban jobs. When housing values and rents are high, lack of affordability, known as cost burden, becomes a problem for a share of the population whose income doesn t keep pace. Cost burden exists when a household spends more than 30% of gross income for rent or mortgage payments. Severe cost burden consists of housing costs of 50% or more of income. Results of a survey for the 2011 Bucks County Comprehensive Plan show that the share of respondents citing the high cost of housing as one of the features they least liked about Bucks County housing totaled more than 43%. But among the youngest group of respondents, those younger than 25, the figure reached a high of just over 60%. As discussed in the Needs Analysis, the number of owners who experience the problem of housing cost burden over 30% of income (23,642) is 27% more than the number of renters (18,538). The number of owners who have a severe housing cost burden of more than 50% of income (12,872) is 29% more than the number of renters (10,014). Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 58

60 How is affordability of housing likely to change considering changes to home values and/or rents? How do HOME rents / Fair Market Rent compare to Area Median Rent? How might this impact your strategy to produce or preserve affordable housing? Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 59

61 MA 20 Housing Market Analysis: Condition of Housing , (a) Introduction Describe the jurisdiction's definition for "substandard condition" and "substandard condition but suitable for rehabilitation: A unit is defined as "standard" if it at a minimum meets the Existing Housing Quality Standards of the Section 8 Housing Voucher Program. Substandard is defined as: A dwelling unit that has one or more of the following deficiencies: 1) is not structurally sound or weathertight; 2) lacks a safe electrical wiring system adequate for lighting and other devices; 3) lacks a safe heating system capable of sustaining a healthful temperature for the average persons; 4) lacks adequate size with respect to the number of rooms and area of living space needed to accommodate the current occupants; 5) lacks a separate, well lighted and ventilated bathroom that provides privacy to the user and contains a sink, bathtub or shower stall and a toilet all in good working order and properly connected to appropriate sources of water and to a sewage drainage system; 6) in the case of a housekeeping dwelling, lacks a kitchen area that contains a fully usable sink properly connected to potable hot and cold water and to a sewage drainage system and adequate space and utility service connections for a stove and refrigerator; 7) lacks properly functioning and healthful water service and/or sewage drainage system; 8) lacks unobstructed egress to safe, open space at ground level; 9) for a unit occupied by a person that is mobility impaired, contains barriers which would preclude reasonable ingress, egress or use of the dwelling by such person; and 10) does not comply with the lead based paint requirements of 24 CFR Part 35. Substandard condition but suitable for rehabilitation is defined as: A substandard unit that is technically feasible to repair and whose value after rehabilitation can be expected to reasonably conform to the market value of comparable units in the same geographically area. The County shall determine the amount of subsidy to be provided to the rehabilitation of a unit dependent upon the program being used. Condition of Units Condition of Units Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Number % Number % With one selected Condition 49,848 30% 20,242 46% With two selected Conditions 291 0% 784 2% With three selected Conditions 12 0% 37 0% With four selected Conditions 0 0% 0 0% No selected Conditions 114,558 70% 23,219 52% Total 164, % 44, % Data Source: ACS Table 33 Condition of Units Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 60

62 Year Unit Built Year Unit Built Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Number % Number % 2000 or later 15,517 9% 2,958 7% ,571 33% 9,162 21% ,716 45% 24,587 56% Before ,905 13% 7,575 17% Total 164, % 44, % Data Source: CHAS Table 34 Year Unit Built Risk of Lead Based Paint Hazard Risk of Lead Based Paint Hazard Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Number % Number % Total Number of Units Built Before ,621 57% 32,162 73% Housing Units build before 1980 with children present 2,038 1% 94, % Data Source: Table 35 Risk of Lead Based Paint ACS (Total Units) CHAS (Units with Children present) Vacant Units Suitable for Not Suitable for Total Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Vacant Units Abandoned Vacant Units REO Properties Abandoned REO Properties Table 36 Vacant Units Data Source: CHAS Describe the need for owner and rental rehabilitation based on the condition of the jurisdiction's housing. Estimate the number of housing units within the jurisdiction that are occupied by low or moderate income families that contain lead based paint hazards (e), An analysis of units built in Bucks County indicates that up to 95,500 units might have lead based paint contamination present. The units encompass approximately 75% of the total housing built between 1940 and Overall, the only sure way to ascertain whether older units are free from lead based Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 61

63 paint is through a formal inspection and clearance process. Units built prior to 1919 are considered contaminated until a test is conducted and certification of clearance has been issued. To determine the potential number of housing units in Bucks County that are occupied by low or moderate income families that contain lead based paint hazards, an even distribution of lead paint units (95,500 units) was applied to the overall percentage of units occupied by low or moderate income families in the jurisdiction (40%), resulting in an estimate of 38,200 housing units. Although the exact number of contaminated units is not known, the estimates point to the need for active pursuit of initiatives targeting the identification and elimination of lead based pain in housing throughout the county. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 62

64 MA 25 Public And Assisted Housing , (b) Introduction Totals Number of Units Certificate Mod Rehab Public Housing Program Type Total Project based Tenant based Vouchers Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Special Purpose Voucher Family Unification Program Disabled * # of units vouchers available 0 0 1,296 6, , # of accessible units *includes Non Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One Year, Mainstream Five year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 37 Total Number of Units by Program Type Alternate Data Source Name: Consultation with PHA Data Source Comments: Describe the supply of public housing developments: The Bucks County Housing Authority operates seven Public Housing (PH) developments consisting of 648 units. Eighty nine percent of the PH units (574 units) are designated for the elderly and disabled, with 11% (74 units) available for families with children. The vast majority of PH units (81%) are located in lower Bucks County, with only one senior development, Grundy Manor, located in upper Bucks County. Describe the number and physical condition of public housing units in the jurisdiction, including those that are participating in an approved Public Housing Agency Plan: The following PH units are under management by the BCHA: Grundy Towers, 176 elderly units located in Bristol, PA. Physical Condition: Good Venice Ashby, 61 family units located in Bristol, PA. Physical Condition: Good Grundy Gardens, 130 elderly units located in Fairless Hills, PA. Physical Condition: Excellent MacIntosh Regency, 100 elderly units located in Levittown, PA. Physical Condition: Good Grundy Manor, 120 elderly units located in Telford, PA. Physical Condition: Excellent Bensalem Woods, 48 elderly units located in Bensalem, PA. Physical Condition: Excellent Bristol Rehab, 13 family units (scattered site) located in Bristol, PA. Physical Condition: Excellent Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 63

65 Public Housing Condition Public Housing Development Average Inspection Score Grundy Towers 88 Venice Ashby 83 Grundy Gardens 99 MacIntosh Regency 81 Grundy Manor 99 Bensalem Woods 96 Bristol Rehab 99 Table 38 Public Housing Condition Describe the restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units in the jurisdiction: All seven Public Housing developments under the management of the Bucks County Housing Authority are included in the BCHA s Capital Fund Program as part of the Five Year Plan submitted to HUD for Fiscal Year All of the developments are in satisfactory condition as evidenced by the PHA s average inspection score of 92% for PH units. The BCHA reports that there are no major restoration or revitalization improvements necessary at this time for its PH units. Upcoming improvements include replacement of the roofs at Grundy Manor and window replacements at MacIntosh Regency. Describe the public housing agency's strategy for improving the living environment of lowand moderate income families residing in public housing: In accordance with the BCHA Designated Housing Plan, the PHA works to improve the living environment of low and moderate income families through the designation of certain buildings for particular resident groups (ie. elderly, disabled, families). Additionally, the BCHA gathers resident input into the development of the BCHA Annual Plan through coordination with established Resident Councils and conducting resident surveys. The BCHA s Board of Directors also includes a Public Housing Resident. The BCHA works with the public and non profit service agencies to ensure necessary services are available on site for public housing residents. Discussion: Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 64

66 MA 30 Homeless Facilities and Services , (c) Introduction Complete Facilities Targeted to Homeless Persons Emergency Shelter Beds Year Round Beds (Current & New) Voucher / Seasonal / Overflow Beds Transitional Housing Beds Permanent Supportive Housing Beds Current & New Current & New Under Development Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) Households with Only Adults Chronically Homeless Households Veterans Unaccompanied Youth Alternate Data Source Name: January 2014 Housing Inventory Chart Data Source Comments: Table 39 Facilities Targeted to Homeless Persons Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 65

67 Describe mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the extent those services are use to complement services targeted to homeless persons The CoC regularly analyzes the Annual Performance Reports for programs serving the homeless to assess performance and improve access to mainstream programs. Additionally, the CoC coordinates with publicly funded systems of care through Discharge Policies to ensure individuals are not released into homelessness. These systems include: Health, Mental Health, Children and Youth, and Corrections. Homeless households are assessed upon entry into the homeless system to identify mainstream resources for which they are eligible. Support services in the form of case management is provided to individuals to apply for and obtain a variety of mainstream benefits. The following mainstream services are available to complement services targeted to homeless persons: Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) Head Start Human Services Development Fund (HSDF) Runaway and Homeless Youth services Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Homeless Prevention, Hotel/Motel, Utilities and Shelter. State Children s Health Insurance Program Mental Health and Substance Abuse Block Grants Services Medical Assistance SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) McKinney Vento Homeless Education Assistance Bucks County Workforce Investment Board Homeless Assistance Program VA/Veteran s assistance programs Community Services Block Grant Services Pennsylvania s Homeless Services Development Fund (HSDF) List and describe services and facilities that meet the needs of homeless persons, particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth. If the services and facilities are listed on screen SP 40 Institutional Delivery Structure or screen MA 35 Special Needs Facilities and Services, describe how these facilities and services specifically address the needs of these populations. Bucks County s 2014 Housing Inventory Chart (HIC) provides detailed information for each housing program and/or facility that serves the needs of the homeless in Bucks County. There are a total of 618 beds dedicated to serving the Homeless in Bucks County. There are a total of 108 Emergency Shelter beds available in the County. Of those, 80 are considered seasonal beds and available on nights that are declared a Code Blue (overnight temperature below 30 degrees). Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 66

68 Transitional housing units make up the majority of housing beds available for the homeless. Housing is considered transitional when short term rental assistance and support services are provided for up to 24 months. There are a total of 351 transitional housing units serving primarily families with children (85% of all TH). There are a total of 159 Permanent Housing Units listed on the 2014 HIC. Of these, 74 are Rapid Re Housing Units, and 85 are Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH). There are currently 26 beds listed on the HIC that are devoted to the chronically homeless. Of those, 100% are permanent supportive housing units. There are 26 PSH beds targeting veterans. There are 23 beds dedicated to youth and a total of 447 beds are available to families with children. In addition to the facilities and housing described above, a variety of services exist to meet the needs of homeless individuals and families in Bucks County. These include: Bucks County Housing Link/Coordinated entry and assessment Shelter Plus Care Supportive Housing Program Emergency Solutions Program Rapid Re Housing Program HUD s Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) Programs for Runaway and Homeless Youth Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) Services in Supportive Housing Grants Emergency Food and Shelter Programs Homeless Prevention Services Homeless Youth Outreach Services Supportive Services for Veterans Families Program Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 67

69 MA 35 Special Needs Facilities and Services , (d) Introduction Including the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, developmental), persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, public housing residents and any other categories the jurisdiction may specify, and describe their supportive housing needs Elderly/Frail Elderly: The Bucks County Area Agency on Aging is responsible for the planning and implementation of a variety of services and programs to assist older adults and their families throughout Bucks County. Older adults often experience fragile health and/or dementia that often prevent their ability to manage their own needs and maintain housing. Supportive services are required for many and may include assistance with enrollment into the most appropriate service programs, health insurance counseling, linkages to behavioral health treatment, reviewing financial and other documentation in order to access mainstream benefits, meals and nutrition services and linkages to transportation services. Persons with Disabilities: The Bucks County Department of Mental Health/Developmental Programs (MH/DP) oversees and provides base funding towards 240 residential slots including Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR), Supportive Living Programs, respite, and a Long Term Structured Residential (LTSR) program. Also included in the housing continuum are 15 residential slots within 5 different regional programs located outside of Bucks County. Each program focuses on supporting specialized populations and is a combination of CRR, SLP and LTSR programs. The MH/DP staff work with community liaisons to improve access, quality and the array of residential and housing support programs. The MH/DP collaborates with housing providers and other agencies to identify ways to transition individuals currently living in programs that provide lower levels of support to more independent housing options in the community. Persons with alcohol or other drug addictions: Recovery and support services are available through the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission to assist individuals in their recovery journey. Intensive Case Managers utilize a strength based model to ensure that clients receive the services needed to support long term recovery from their substance use disorder and self sufficiency in the community. This includes linking individuals to needed ancillary services such as transportation, child care, employment services, food and clothing. These services provide advocacy and mentoring, peer and volunteer led life skills programming, recovery community centers, peer recovery specialists and recovery coaches. Persons with HIV/AIDS: A primary supportive service required by persons living with HIV/AIDS in Bucks County includes access to reliable transportation. Additionally, these families often have no income, and while a HOPWA voucher can cover the entire rental payment, many landlords are uncomfortable renting to families with no income. Additionally, prior eviction histories and poor credit scores can prevent them from obtaining suitable housing, even with a tenant based rental voucher. There is a Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 68

70 limited availability of handicap accessible rental units and there are also certain cultural groups that are faced with barriers because of family dynamics, immigration status and language limitations. The Spanish speaking only population continues to be underserved and underrepresented. Public Housing Residents: The majority of Public Housing residents are senior citizens, many of whom require additional support services to ensure they can remain living independently. These support services are provided through contracts with community agencies including the Family Service Association and the Area Agency on Aging and include housekeeping, transportation, meals, etc. Additionally, although residents of PH and Section 8 Voucher holders do not experience cost burden, as their out of pocket housing costs do not exceed 30% of their household income, these residents tend to be very low income with an average income of $16,500 for Section 8 and $13,807 for PH residents. Many of the residents require community supports to access mainstream benefits, health and treatment services, and transportation services in order to maintain their housing. Describe programs for ensuring that persons returning from mental and physical health institutions receive appropriate supportive housing The CoC works with the publicly funded systems of care, including the Health and Mental Health systems to ensure that discharge policies are in place and patients receive appropriate supportive housing. Health System: The Bucks County Hospital system is comprised of six acute care hospitals including Aria Health, Doylestown Hospital, Grand View Hospital, Lower Bucks Hospital, St. Luke's Quakertown Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center. Each hospital has policies and procedures in place to ensure, to the maximum extent possible, that patients are not discharged into homelessness. Prior to discharge, patients are assigned a hospital social worker or a nurse case manager to design a Plan of Treatment addressing issues relating to the patient s post treatment care. A holistic approach is taken in developing the Plan of Treatment, including determining a location for discharge appropriate to the required level of care. If housing is identified as an issue, the social worker/ case manager will work with the patient to explore all available housing resources. Most patients can identify a relative, neighbor or friend who can provide at least temporary housing after discharge. The social worker/ case manager coordinates with collaborating agencies to help connect patients to available resources in the community. The social worker/ case manager also acts as a liaison between the patient and insurance company to ensure health supports are available in the home. Patients may also be discharged to a rehab center or nursing home depending on the required level of care. Mental Health: The Bucks County Department of Mental Health/ Developmental Programs (MH/DP) and Norristown State Hospital (NSH) have a Memorandum of Agreement that addresses the discharge planning process for Bucks County Residents who are inpatient at NSH. Individuals being discharged Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 69

71 from NSH receive Continuity of Care planning. This process involves collaborative efforts with the individual, his/her natural supports, patient and family advocates, MH/DP, community facilities, and NSH. MH/DP identifies individuals who are homeless as a priority population for residential placement vacancies, outpatient clinical services and other publicly funded community mental health supports. Individuals are discharged to supportive living arrangements to better address their individual needs for community living. Discharges are to an array of living situations including Community Residential Rehabilitation and Supported Living programs. Each varies in degree of support furnished by the particular program. Occasionally individuals are discharged to independent living situations, which are supported through case management, ACT or CTT. In an effort to increase success, MH/DP encourages individuals to actively engage in support services. Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with (e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one year goals (e) For entitlement/consortia grantees: Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with (e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one year goals. (91.220(2)) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 70

72 MA 40 Barriers to Affordable Housing , (e) Describe any negative effects of public policies on affordable housing and residential investment A barrier to affordable housing, as defined by the Consolidated Plan Guidelines, is a public policy, such as land use controls, property taxes, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limits, and other policies. A barrier to affordable housing is different from an impediment to fair housing choice in that it is not necessarily unlawful (i.e. the lack of affordable housing stock, in and of itself, is a barrier to affordable housing). The development of more affordable housing is essential to meeting the housing needs of low and moderate income families in Bucks County. County Planning: Under Pennsylvania s Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247), municipalities are responsible for development process with the County playing an advisory role. Nevertheless, the County, through its Planning Commission, publishes a comprehensive plan, which advocates sound planning mechanisms intended to lower costs of development, while minimizing impact to the natural environment. The most recent Comprehensive Plan was completed in The following summarizes the principal barriers on the development of affordable housing. Land Use Controls: Higher densities typically yield lower per unit land costs, reducing the cost per unit developed, and the overall development price tag. Although, local municipalities are required to provide for all housing uses, the amount of available high density residential land available for development is limited. Many of the more urbanized communities have reached their full stage of development. The more rural communities do not have the physical infrastructure to support higher density development, nor the social services to support the needs of many lower income residents. Development Standards: The manner in which most communities have developed is affecting the standards in place. For instance, all of the communities have design and construction quality standards that are intended, not only to preserve public health and safety, but also to ensure development takes place in manner that preserves the character of the community. As a result, development standards (e.g., building height, lot coverage, setbacks, open space requirement, parking requirements) have reduced the potential number of units that could be achieved on a given site. Development Approval and Permit Processing: Lengthy development approval and permit processing procedures can increase the cost of development substantially. However, any number of issues can lead to delays in the approval process. Housing development catering to higher incomes can more easily absorb any higher costs associated with any lengthier approval times. For projects targeting lower incomes, every dollar counts as there is typically limited funding and end users have critical limit in how much they can afford. This has relegated development of affordable housing to nonprofit organizations as the profit margins are simply not there to entice private developers. Development Fees: Many variables affect the total amount of development fees charged by a municipality for a particular housing project. These variables include the project size, lot size, unit size, Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 71

73 entitlements, capital improvements and assessment districts, engineering services, and housing type. Many local communities also require the dedication of land for park acquisition when land is subdivided for residential use. While well meaning, any such contributions or dedications make housing unit costs more expensive. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 72

74 MA 45 Non Housing Community Development Assets , (f) Introduction Economic Development Market Analysis Business Activity Business by Sector Number of Workers Number of Jobs Share of Workers % Share of Jobs % Jobs less workers % Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas Extraction Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations 20,023 18, Construction 10,965 9, Education and Health Care Services 45,486 38, Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 18,564 8, Information 6,262 4, Manufacturing 24,390 18, Other Services 8,636 6, Professional, Scientific, Management Services 27,368 15, Public Administration Retail Trade 29,181 27, Transportation and Warehousing 6,045 3, Wholesale Trade 14,500 10, Total 212, ,630 Data Source: Table 40 Business Activity ACS (Workers), 2010 Longitudinal Employer Household Dynamics (Jobs) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 73

75 Labor Force Total Population in the Civilian Labor Force 275,564 Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 260,001 Unemployment Rate 5.65 Unemployment Rate for Ages Unemployment Rate for Ages Data Source: ACS Table 41 Labor Force Occupations by Sector Number of People Management, business and financial 76,894 Farming, fisheries and forestry occupations 8,926 Service 17,851 Sales and office 44,368 Construction, extraction, maintenance and repair 19,816 Production, transportation and material moving 12,134 Data Source: ACS Table 42 Occupations by Sector Travel Time Travel Time Number Percentage < 30 Minutes 141,086 58% Minutes 72,531 30% 60 or More Minutes 29,124 12% Total 242, % Data Source: ACS Table 43 Travel Time Education: Educational Attainment by Employment Status (Population 16 and Older) Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force Less than high school graduate 6, ,940 Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 74

76 Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force High school graduate (includes equivalency) 54,636 3,403 15,633 Some college or Associate's degree 59,820 2,717 11,353 Bachelor's degree or higher 97,008 3,493 15,604 Data Source: ACS Table 44 Educational Attainment by Employment Status Educational Attainment by Age Age yrs yrs yrs yrs 65+ yrs Less than 9th grade 1, ,185 1,464 4,514 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 4,575 1,289 1,667 5,118 8,770 High school graduate, GED, or alternative 10,642 11,118 18,240 44,405 28,827 Some college, no degree 13,520 10,394 13,237 27,797 10,426 Associate's degree 1,934 3,544 5,796 13,326 2,998 Bachelor's degree 5,490 15,928 20,299 34,747 10,106 Graduate or professional degree 176 6,808 12,478 26,135 7,029 Data Source: ACS Table 45 Educational Attainment by Age Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Less than high school graduate 0 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 0 Some college or Associate's degree 0 Bachelor's degree 0 Graduate or professional degree 0 Table 46 Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Data Source: ACS Based on the Business Activity table above, what are the major employment sectors within your jurisdiction? The major employment sectors in Bucks County are Education and Health Care Services (21%), Professional, Scientific, Retail Trade (14%) Professional, Scientific and Management Services (13%). Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 75

77 Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community: Describe any major changes that may have an economic impact, such as planned local or regional public or private sector investments or initiatives that have affected or may affect job and business growth opportunities during the planning period. Describe any needs for workforce development, business support or infrastructure these changes may create. How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment opportunities in the jurisdiction? Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce Investment Boards, community colleges and other organizations. Describe how these efforts will support the jurisdiction's Consolidated Plan. Does your jurisdiction participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)? If so, what economic development initiatives are you undertaking that may be coordinated with the Consolidated Plan? If not, describe other local/regional plans or initiatives that impact economic growth. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 76

78 MA 50 Needs and Market Analysis Discussion Are there areas where households with multiple housing problems are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration") Are there any areas in the jurisdiction where racial or ethnic minorities or low income families are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration") What are the characteristics of the market in these areas/neighborhoods? Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods? Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas? Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 77

79 Strategic Plan SP 05 Overview Strategic Plan Overview The following sections outline Bucks County Strategic Plan for the Consolidated Plan. SP 10 Geographic Priorities: SP 25 Priority Needs SP 30 Influence of Market Conditions SP 35 Anticipated Resources SP 40 Institutional Delivery Structure SP 45 Goals SP 50 Barriers to Affordable Housing SP 60 Homelessness Strategy SP 65 Lead Based Paint Hazards SP 70 Anti Poverty Strategy SP 80 Monitoring Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 78

80 SP 10 Geographic Priorities , (a)(1) Geographic Area Table 47 Geographic Priority Areas 1 Area Name: Area Type: Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries for this target area. Include specific housing and commercial characteristics of this target area. How did your consultation and citizen participation process help you to identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. What are the opportunities for improvement in this target area? Are there barriers to improvement in this target area? Bucks County Non Site Specific General Population of Bucks County General Population of Bucks County General Allocation Priorities Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdisction. Bucks County ranks 4th out of 76 counties in population overall in Pennsylvania, after Philadelphia, Allegheny County (Pittsburgh), and Montgomery County. Positioned near the center of the large metropolitan area of the northeastern United States, the county is within easy reach of Allentown/Bethlehem/Easton, Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York. Bucks County is comprised of 54 municipalities (23 boroughs and 31 townships) and has no unincorporated areas within its 600 square mile area. Bucks County can be divided into three general regional areas: upper Bucks, central Bucks and lower Bucks County. Generally, upper Bucks is more rural in character than the other regions, central Bucks contains rural and suburbanized areas, and lower Bucks is considered more urbanized. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 79

81 While Bucks County is home to affluent and middle class residents, the areas of low income concentration are found mainly in the urban areas closest to Philadelphia (lower Bucks) and in the older boroughs in each region of the county. There are no specific geographic priorities identified for housing and community development activities funded through these programs. Bucks County will work to target funding to areas that benefit low and moderate income residents while giving consideration to the geographic diversity of the county as a whole. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 80

82 SP 25 Priority Needs , (a)(2) Priority Needs Table 48 Priority Needs Summary 1 Priority Need Name Affordable Housing Rental Assistance 2 Priority Level Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Population High Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 81 Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Families with Children General Population of Bucks County Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Tenant based rental assistance and rapid re housing assistance are needed to increase the availability of affordable rental housing. Housing Cost Burden is the most common housing problem experience by low income families in Bucks County. Rental assistance is needed to alleviate the burden of the high cost of housing and allow households to obtain and maintain permanent housing. Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units High Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families

83 3 4 Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level General Population of Bucks County Improve Existing Housing Stock Rehabilitation of existing rental and owner occupied units is needed to ensure the availability of safe and decent affordable housing. Affordable Housing Production of New Units High Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly General Population of Bucks County Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities New units are needed to ensure the availability of affordable rental and owner occupied housing for low and moderate income residents. The creation of new units are necessary to ensure and adequate supply of affordable housing is available to low/moderate income, special needs, and homeless populations. The most common housing problem experienced by these populations is housing cost burden caused by limited availability of affordable housing. Affordable Housing Acquisition of existing units High Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 82

84 5 Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Population Low Moderate Middle Families with Children Elderly General Population of Bucks County Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Acquisition and rehabilitation of units increases the availability of affordable housing for low/moderate income households. Acquisition and rehabilitation of units is necessary to increase the availability of affordable housing to low/moderate income, special needs, and homeless populations. The most common housing problem experienced by these populations is housing cost burden caused by limited availability of affordable housing. Homelessness Outreach High Extremely Low Low Moderate Families with Children Elderly Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 83

85 6 Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority General Population of Bucks County Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homeless outreach and intervention services are needed to ensure unsheltered homeless individuals/families are assessed and referred to appropriate housing and support services. Outreach services are a priority for the jurisdiction but are not currently funded with CDBG or ESG funds. These services are provided via other local funds and administered by non profit and faith based organizations. Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing High Extremely Low Low Large Families Families with Children Elderly Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth General Population of Bucks County Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Emergency shelters and transitional housing services are needed to reduce the number of unsheltered homeless individuals and families in Bucks County. Emergency shelters and transitional housing are necessary to reduce unsheltered and chronic homeless populations and are a vital link in improving the housing crisis response system. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 84

86 7 8 Priority Need Name Priority Level Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Homelessness Rapid Re Housing High Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Individuals Families with Children General Population of Bucks County Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Short term rental assistance and support services are needed to provide rapid re housing services to households who have become homeless. Rapid re housing effectively assists households who are recently homeless or facing imminent homelessness. Rental assistance and case management are often only needed short term and allow families to quickly obtain and maintain permanent housing. Homelessness Prevention High Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 85

87 9 Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth General Population of Bucks County Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness prevention services are needed to assist those who are at risk of homelessness to stabilize their housing crisis and maintain housing. Prevention services are a priority for the jurisdiction but are not currently funded with CDBG or ESG funds. These services are provided via other local funds and administered by non profit and faith based organizations. Non Housing Comm. Development Public Facilities High Extremely Low Low Moderate Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Non housing Community Development Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 86

88 Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description General Population of Bucks County Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Public facilities improvements are needed to ensure sustainable/livable communities Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Community Development: Public Improvements High Extremely Low Low Moderate Non housing Community Development General Population of Bucks County Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Public improvements and infrastrure improvements are needed to ensure sustainable/livable communities. Community Development: Public Services High Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 87

89 12 Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Priority Need Name Priority Level Extremely Low Low Moderate Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence General Population of Bucks County Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Public services are necessary to fund public/human service activities for low/moderate income persons including the homeless, elderly, and populations with special needs. Public services are needed to support the needs of homeless and non homeless special needs populations in the County. Economic Development: Job Training High Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 88

90 Population Geographic Areas Affected Associated Goals Description Basis for Relative Priority Extremely Low Low Moderate Families with Children Non housing Community Development General Population of Bucks County Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Employment and job training is needed to ensure the availability of a qualified workforce for emerging employment sectors. Narrative (Optional) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 89

91 SP 30 Influence of Market Conditions , (b) Influence of Market Conditions Affordable Housing Type Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) TBRA for Non Homeless Special Needs New Unit Production Rehabilitation Acquisition, including preservation Table 49 Influence of Market Conditions Market Characteristics that will influence the use of funds available for housing type Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 90

92 SP 35 Anticipated Resources (b), (a)(4), (c)(1,2) Introduction Anticipated Resources Program Source of Funds CDBG public federal HOME public federal Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Acquisition Admin and Planning Economic Development Housing Public Improvements Public Services 1,698,353 60, ,758,353 6,793,412 Acquisition Homebuyer assistance Homeowner rehab Multifamily rental new construction Multifamily rental rehab New construction for ownership TBRA 672,872 30, ,872 2,691,488 Narrative Description Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 91

93 Program Source of Funds ESG public federal Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Conversion and rehab for transitional housing Financial Assistance Overnight shelter Rapid re housing (rental assistance) Rental Assistance Services Transitional housing 157, , ,044 Table 50 Anticipated Resources Narrative Description Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied Rarely does the County's federal entitlement funding pay for 100% of activity costs. In addition to the funding sources listed above, recipients use other public funding, foundation and corporate grants, private loans, inââ Â kind contributions, and general donations to leverage federal funding received. Recipients of entitlement funding are required to identify efforts to obtain other public and private resources to address the needs identified in the Consolidated Plan. Matching funds are required for the HOME and ESG programs and are strongly encouraged for CDBG recipients. The HDCD considers the amount of leveraged resources when evaluating applications for funding. Documentation of matching requirements are kept in the program file and are reviewed as part of the DHCD monitoring process and reported as required by HUD. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 92

94 The DHCD also receives funding through the Bucks County Housing Trust Fund (HTF) that that is allocated to activities that support housing and community development initiatives. The County will leverage approximately $2,500,000 in HTF dollars throughout the term of this Consolidated Plan. Additionally, the DHCD makes a focused effort to leverage other HUD resources including applying for and receiving competitive Pennsylvania DCED ESG dollars to increase the ability to address homeless needs throughout the jurisdiction. If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Not applicable Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 93

95 SP 40 Institutional Delivery Structure , (k) Explain the institutional structure through which the jurisdiction will carry out its consolidated plan including private industry, non profit organizations, and public institutions. Responsible Entity BUCKS COUNTY REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Bucks County Housing Authority Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County Bucks County Department of Children and Youth FAMILY SERVICE ASSOCIATION OF BUCKS COUNTY BUCKS COUNTY OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development Responsible Entity Type Redevelopment authority PHA Continuum of care Departments and agencies Non profit organizations Non profit organizations Ownership Rental Role Public Housing Rental Homelessness Non homeless special needs Ownership Planning Public Housing Rental Homelessness Non homeless special needs Homelessness Homelessness Rental Table 51 Institutional Delivery Structure Assess of Strengths and Gaps in the Institutional Delivery System Geographic Area Served Jurisdiction Jurisdiction Jurisdiction Jurisdiction Jurisdiction Jurisdiction While public and private agencies and organizations in Bucks County have achieved a high level of collaboration in administering programs benefiting low and moderate income people and families, gaps still exist in the provision of these services. Some of these gaps were highlighted during the Housing Advisory Board Listening Sessions and through the Consolidated Planning consultation and public participation process. Some of the gaps identified Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 94

96 include: the system is confusing and can be hard to navigate, there is limited public transportation available, and there is limited availability of affordable housing in many areas of the county. There are also many strengths in the institutional delivery system for these programs. This includes an enduring commitment to increase the supply of units affordable to lower income groups and special needs populations, a commitment to collaborate, strategize, and problem solve to achieve successful outcomes, and a willingness to implement innovative programs tailored to the specific needs of Bucks County residents. The HDCD has considered the strengths and gaps in the institutional delivery system while developing the goals for this Consolidated Plan well as other plans and strategies for other federal, state and local funds that HDCD administers. Availability of services targeted to homeless persons and persons with HIV and mainstream services Homelessness Prevention Services Available in the Community Targeted to Homeless Homelessness Prevention Services Counseling/Advocacy X X Legal Assistance Mortgage Assistance X X Targeted to People with HIV Rental Assistance X X X Utilities Assistance X X Law Enforcement Mobile Clinics Street Outreach Services Other Street Outreach Services X X Supportive Services Alcohol & Drug Abuse X X Child Care X X Education X X Employment and Employment Training X X Healthcare X X X HIV/AIDS X X X Life Skills X X Mental Health Counseling X X X Transportation X X Other Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 95 Table 52 Homeless Prevention Services Summary

97 Describe how the service delivery system including, but not limited to, the services listed above meet the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) Describe the strengths and gaps of the service delivery system for special needs population and persons experiencing homelessness, including, but not limited to, the services listed above Provide a summary of the strategy for overcoming gaps in the institutional structure and service delivery system for carrying out a strategy to address priority needs Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 96

98 SP 45 Goals , (a)(4) Goals Summary Information Sort Goal Name Order 1 Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Start Year End Year Category Non Homeless Special Needs Non Housing Community Development Economic Development: Job Training Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Non Housing Comm. Development Public Facilities Community Development: Public Improvements Community Development: Public Services Economic Development: Job Training Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1 Persons Assisted Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1 Persons Assisted Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1 Households Assisted 2 Improve Existing Housing Stock Affordable Housing Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units Other: 1 Other Rental units rehabilitated: 1 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 1 Household Housing Unit Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 97

99 Sort Goal Name Order 3 Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Start Year End Year Category Affordable Housing Non Homeless Special Needs Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Affordable Housing Rental Assistance Affordable Housing Production of New Units Affordable Housing Acquisition of existing units Rental units constructed: 1 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Added: 1 Household Housing Unit Tenant based rental assistance / Rapid Rehousing: 1 Households Assisted 4 Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homeless Non Homeless Special Needs Homelessness Outreach Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Homelessness Rapid Re Housing Homelessness Prevention Housing for Homeless added: 1 Household Housing Unit Tenant based rental assistance / Rapid Rehousing: 1 Households Assisted Homeless Person Overnight Shelter: 1 Persons Assisted Overnight/Emergency Shelter/Transitional Housing Beds added: 1 Beds Table 53 Goals Summary Homelessness Prevention: 1 Persons Assisted Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 98

100 Goal Descriptions 1 Goal Name Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Goal Description Build inclusive and sustainable communities through investments in revitalization and infrastructure improvement in the County s areas of greatest need. 2 Goal Name Improve Existing Housing Stock Goal Description Improve existing affordable housing stock through owner occupied housing and renovation of rental existing housing. 3 Goal Name Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Goal Description Increase the availability of affordable housing for rental and homeownership by investing in new units, provision of Tenant Based Rental Assistance, and housing for special needs residents. 4 Goal Name Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Goal Description Improve the housing crisis response system by supporting homeless shelter operations and rapid re housing programs that serve homeless and special needs residents. Estimate the number of extremely low income, low income, and moderate income families to whom the jurisdiction will provide affordable housing as defined by HOME (b)(2) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 99

101 SP 50 Public Housing Accessibility and Involvement , (c) Need to Increase the Number of Accessible Units (if Required by a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement) The Bucks County Housing Authority (BCHA) is not required to increase the number of available accessible units per a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement. Activities to Increase Resident Involvements The BCHA promotes activities to increase resident involvement through the support of and coordination with the Resident Councils established by residents at several of the Public Housing Developments. Residents are encouraged to provide input into the development of the Annual Plan and BCHA administration and policies. Additionally, a Public Housing resident serves as a member of the BCHA Board of Directors. Is the public housing agency designated as troubled under 24 CFR part 902? No Plan to remove the troubled designation Not applicable. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 100

102 SP 55 Strategic Plan Barriers to Affordable Housing , (h) Barriers to Affordable Housing A barrier to affordable housing, as defined by the Consolidated Plan Guidelines, is a public policy, such as land use controls, property taxes, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limits, and other policies. A barrier to affordable housing is different from an impediment to fair housing choice in that it is not necessarily unlawful (i.e. the lack of affordable housing stock, in and of itself, is a barrier to affordable housing). The development of more affordable housing is essential to meeting the housing needs of low and moderate income families in Bucks County. County Planning: Under Pennsylvaniaâ s Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247), municipalities are responsible for development process with the County playing an advisory role. Nevertheless, the County, through its Planning Commission, publishes a comprehensive plan, which advocates sound planning mechanisms intended to lower costs of development, while minimizing impact to the natural environment. The most recent Comprehensive Plan was completed in The following summarizes the principal barriers on the development of affordable housing. Land Use Controls: Higher densities typically yield lower per unit land costs, reducing the cost per unit developed, and the overall development price tag. Although, local municipalities are required to provide for all housing uses, the amount of available high density residential land available for development is limited. Many of the more urbanized communities have reached their full stage of development. The more rural communities do not have the physical infrastructure to support higher density development, nor the social services to support the needs of many lower income residents. Development Standards:Â The manner in which most communities have developed is affecting the standards in place. For instance, all of the communities have design and construction quality standards that are intended, not only to preserve public health and safety, but also to ensure development takes place in manner that preserves the character of the community. As a result, development standards (e.g., building height, lot coverage, setbacks, open space requirement, parking requirements) have reduced the potential number of units that could be achieved on a given site. Development Approval and Permit Processing:Â Lengthy development approval and permit processing procedures can increase the cost of development substantially. However, any number of issues can lead to delays in the approval process. Housing development catering to higher incomes can more easily absorb any higher costs associated with any lengthier approval times. For projects targeting lower incomes, every dollar counts as there is typically limited funding and end users have critical limit in how much they can afford. This has relegated development of affordable housing to nonprofit organizations as the profit margins are simply not there to entice private developers. Development Fees:Â Many variables affect the total amount of development fees charged by a municipality for a particular housing project. These variables include the project size, lot size, unit size, entitlements, capital improvements and assessment districts, engineering services, and housing type. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 101

103 Many local communities also require the dedication of land for park acquisition when land is subdivided for residential use. While well meaning, any such contributions or dedications make housing unit costs more expensive. Strategy to Remove or Ameliorate the Barriers to Affordable Housing The County fosters and maintains the development of affordable housing by continuing to support the scattered site and focused housing units for low income and formerly homeless families. As appropriate, families participate in a self sufficiency program prior to occupying to the housing unit, reducing the number of poverty level families in Bucks County. The homeownership and homeowner rehab programs enable low/moderate income families to become homeowners and enable current homeowners to remain in their home when code issues jeopardize the ability to do so. The Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program continues to provide rental assistance to homeless families while participating in a two year self sufficiency program, allowing them to maintain housing and earn a sustainable wage after completing the program. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 102

104 SP 60 Homelessness Strategy , (d) Describe how the jurisdiction's strategic plan goals contribute to: Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs Bucks County, through the CoC, conducts outreach to unsheltered homeless persons mainly through the Penndel Mental Health Center PATH program and The Valley Youth House Synergy Project (youth outreach) with assistance from faith based groups, social service agencies, and the County Departments of Mental Health/Developmental Programs, Corrections, Behavioral Health Systems, and the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission. These agencies are all active participants in the CoC and coordinate with other housing and support services agencies serving the homeless. The goals for outreach to homeless persons include increasing the number of contacts to homeless persons, increasing the number of SOAR applications submitted by/ on behalf of homeless persons, and decreasing the number of unsheltered homeless and runaway youth. The County and the CoC will continue to work to achieve this goal by providing funding for a youth street outreach program and by establishing performance measures to evaluate outreach efforts. These performance measures include: increasing connections of homeless youth to supportive housing services, providing SOAR training to outreach workers, and increasing collaboration between the PATH program and shelters that serve chronically homeless individuals. Homeless persons identified through the outreach efforts will be referred to the Bucks County Housing Link. The Bucks County Housing Link is the central point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing crisis. It includes a Call Center and several Assessment Centers which serve all persons experiencing a housing crisis in Bucks County. The Housing Link, accessed by phone, screens callers with a brief interview to determine the household s basic eligibility for housing assistance and refers them to the nearest regional coordinated assessment center. The coordinated assessment centers schedule an in person appointment. At this appointment, the coordinated assessment center determines the level of housing assistance needed to resolve the crisis and the available assistance options. Persons in crisis are then connected with the most appropriate housing assistance program to resolve their crisis. The Housing Link is supported in part by CoC Program funding. Addressing the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The CoC has established goals to address the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons. These goals include reducing the length of stay at an emergency shelter for families and individuals, increasing the number of persons who exit transitional housing programs to permanent housing destinations, and increasing the number of persons employed at exit from transitional and permanent housing programs. Bucks County utilizes its entitlement Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), along with competitive funding through the Pennsylvania ESG program, to support emergency shelter Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 103

105 operations as well as rapid re housing programs. Additionally, CoC program funding is allocated to support the Housing Link and four Transitional Housing programs. Length of stay in shelters: The length of time spent in emergency shelters will be reduced by prioritizing ESG grant funding for Rapid Re Housing projects that serve emergency shelter clients and the literally homeless. Additionally, many housing agencies within the CoC work together to prioritize participants residing at the emergency shelter or living on the streets when permanent housing assistance is available. Persons exiting to permanent housing: The CoC will monitor progress towards increasing the number of persons exiting to permanent housing destinations through quarterly reviews of HMIS data and annual reviews of CoC Project Annual Performance Reports. Organizations who operate emergency shelter and transitional housing programs will continue to participate on internal task forces that have been created to identify and implement solutions specific to their target population. The CoC has found that increased collaboration between agencies during the discharge process and the submission of joint applications for housing program funding have helped to create more positive outcomes for residents leaving these housing programs. Increased employment at program exit: The CoC will address this goal by holding sessions on improving workforce development for emergency shelter, transitional, and permanent supportive housing clients. The CoC will work to expand partnerships with community colleges, increase on the job training opportunities, and increase collaboration with the local Workforce Investment Board. 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 CoC has established goals to increase the number of persons who move from emergency shelter and transitional housing to permanent housing and independent living. A new program targeting transition age youth was established with CoC Program funding in 2012 and provides rental assistance and intensive case management and employment counseling to increase the likelihood that participants will maintain permanent housing upon exiting the program. The CoC will continue to prioritize permanent housing programs when allocating its annual funding. Two new permanent housing programs have recently been established that are dedicated to providing permanent supportive housing to chronically homeless individuals with mental health/substance abuse issues. Special populations, including chronically homeless, mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence victims, veterans, and youth will also be targeted for permanent housing programs. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 104

106 Bucks County will continue to prioritize rapid re housing programs that provide short and medium term rental assistance and case management to increase the number of households obtaining and maintaining permanent housing. Help low income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low income individuals and families who are likely to become homeless after being discharged from a publicly funded institution or system of care, or who are receiving assistance from public and private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education or youth needs Bucks County will coordinate with multiple systems to reduce the number of residents that experience homelessness at all. The Bucks County Housing Link, the County s centralized intake/assessment system, will continue to include a broad marketing and outreach campaign to landlords, district judges, other institutions, and renters so that residents are aware of and can take advantage of diversion and prevention options before becoming homeless. Secondly, Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) funding from Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare will continue to be targeted towards preventing evictions and helping homeless persons move into permanent housing. HAP program parameters have been modified in order to provide assistance to more residents as the demand increases. Third, discharge planning from institutions is a cross systems issue that is being explored through new housing projects and collaboration on service based training. For example, Corrections is increasing collaboration with the CoC in order to provide more housing opportunities for persons who would be homeless upon discharge and has participated in CoC wide SOAR training. Local hospitals have a history of collaborating with non profit housing providers in order to offer long term permanent housing for residents with disabilities. The Department of Children and Youth Social Services is engaged in providing housing opportunities for at risk families with children as a diversion from foster care as well. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 105

107 SP 65 Lead based Paint Hazards , (i) Actions to address LBP hazards and increase access to housing without LBP hazards Bucks County will continue its efforts to reduce the harmful effects of leadâ based paint over the next five years. Remedial actions will be taken to ensure all rental units and homeowner rehab units built prior to 1978 have a lead hazard evaluation completed by a certified lead inspector to determine the presence of lead based paint or lead based paint hazards. Developers are urged to include the cost of the inspection into the development of the property. Once the inspection is completed, the developer may need to revise the work to be performed on the unit to comply with the lead based paint assessment results. Any areas identified as deteriorated lead based paint need to be stabilized by a certified contractor. All units built prior to 1978 and assisted with TBRA will be visually inspected for deteriorated paint. If deteriorated paint is identified, landlords will be required to provide an assessment of the area and comply with the lead based paint safe work practices. The DHCD will continue to work with agencies that operate rental housing to ensure that policies and protocols are in place to conduct regular property assessments to assure that lead paint hazards are not developing. How are the actions listed above related to the extent of lead poisoning and hazards? The DHCD continues to be actively involved in evaluating and reducing the number of housing units with leadâ based paint. Laboratories and physicians are required to report all blood lead tests to a Na onal Disease Surveillance System. A County public health nurse is assigned to each elevated blood lead case to educate parents/caregivers about sources of lead, housekeeping methods to lower lead risk, nutritional and personal hygiene practices that reduce the absorption of lead, and required followâ up testing timelines. The case management nurse will make referrals to appropriate medical, developmental, and nutritional services as needed. How are the actions listed above integrated into housing policies and procedures? The DHCD integrates the lead based paint actions described above into its policies and procedures for programs funded by CDBG, HOME and ESG to ensure the programs adhere to Lead Safe Practices for all rehabilitation, rental assistance, operations and acquisition activities. The Bucks County Redevelopment Authority (RDA) staff are qualified as lead based paint risk assessors and work closely with the DHCD on activities that have potential lead based paint issues. To this end, all units of appropriate age are tested, residents informed, work carried out according to safe work practices, and testing done to ensure unit clearance upon completion of abatement work. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 106

108 SP 70 Anti Poverty Strategy , (j) Jurisdiction Goals, Programs and Policies for reducing the number of Poverty Level Families How are the Jurisdiction poverty reducing goals, programs, and policies coordinated with this affordable housing plan Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 107

109 SP 80 Monitoring Describe the standards and procedures that the jurisdiction will use to monitor activities carried out in furtherance of the plan and will use to ensure long term compliance with requirements of the programs involved, including minority business outreach and the comprehensive planning requirements Housing: The DHCD will perform monitoring assessments throughout the life of all projects to ensure sure that each project meets local building standards, is managed in a way that conforms to HUD s funding regulations, and helps the County attain the objectives outlined in the Consolidated Plan. DHCD staff will track the implementation progress of each individual project. This involves an ongoing review of project expenditures, monitoring of all sites under construction, and regular meetings with project representatives through all phases of development. Funding recipients will be required to provide a detailed description of activities and implementation progress with each invoice for reimbursement. The DHCD will also closely monitor any projects that have had no significant activity on at least a quarterly basis. The DHCD strives to regularly evaluate the performance and progress of each project and immediately address any issues or barriers to successful project completion. Additionally, the DHCD will conduct annual site visits and monitoring of tenant files of all affordable housing developments assisted with entitlement funds to ensure compliance with program goals and federal regulations. Property inspections will also be conducted during the annual site visit to ensure all program requirements are fulfilled. Public Improvements, Facilities and Services: For the most part, public improvements, facilities and service projects will be implemented for the benefit of areas with qualifying concentrations of low/mod income persons or providing direct benefit to persons meeting this income qualification. Upon notification of funding award, each funding recipient will be provided with a copy of the CDBG program Handbook that outlines both general and specific project implementation requirements. In general, monitoring will take place in three phases: the initial review of the project, during its implementation phases, and post completion follow up. Prior to funding approval, the DHCD will ensure that the target beneficiaries are eligible. Where appropriate, the County may request documentation as to the income of the beneficiaries. Once the project is approved, regular monitoring will ensure that the funding recipient implements the program in compliance with the various applicable regulations (e.g., procurement, Davis Bacon, Fair Housing). Monitoring will include on site meetings (e.g., predevelopment, bid award, project completion), and desk monitoring of documentation requested from the funding recipient or provided with each invoice drawdown. For projects involving construction, the County will also conducts a project completion monitoring visit to ensure that the project was implemented as described in the application. These projects will be monitored annually, for a minimum of five years, to document that the project continues to benefit the target population. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 108

110 Monitoring efforts for Public Service projects will be focused on ensuring that the funding is expended for an eligible activity and benefits an eligible target population, in accordance with program requirements. Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG): The DHCD, working with the CoC developed performance standards for implementation of the ESG program. The DHCD will monitor all recipients of ESG funding to ensure compliance with the performance standards and HUD regulations and to evaluate performance measures. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 109

111 AP 15 Expected Resources (b), (c)(1,2) Introduction Expected Resources Anticipated Resources Program Source of Funds CDBG public federal HOME public federal Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Acquisition Admin and Planning Economic Development Housing Public Improvements Public Services 1,698,353 60, ,758,353 6,793,412 Acquisition Homebuyer assistance Homeowner rehab Multifamily rental new construction Multifamily rental rehab New construction for ownership TBRA 672,872 30, ,872 2,691,488 Narrative Description Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 110

112 Program Source of Funds ESG public federal Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Conversion and rehab for transitional housing Financial Assistance Overnight shelter Rapid re housing (rental assistance) Rental Assistance Services Transitional housing 157, , ,044 Table 54 Expected Resources Priority Table Narrative Description Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied Rarely does the County's federal entitlement funding pay for 100% of activity costs. In addition to the funding sources listed above, recipients use other public funding, foundation and corporate grants, private loans, in kind contributions, and general donations to leverage federal funding received. Recipients of entitlement funding are required to identify efforts to obtain other public and private resources to address the needs identified in the Consolidated Plan. Matching funds are required for the HOME and ESG programs and are strongly encouraged for CDBG recipients. The HDCD considers the amount of leveraged resources when evaluating applications for funding. Documentation of matching requirements are kept in the program file and are reviewed as part of the DHCD monitoring process and reported as required by HUD. The DHCD also receives funding through the Bucks County Housing Trust Fund (HTF) that that is allocated to activities that support housing and community development initiatives. The County will leverage approximately $2,500,000 in HTF dollars throughout the term of this Consolidated Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 111

113 Plan. Additionally, the DHCD makes a focused effort to leverage other HUD resources including applying for and receiving competitive Pennsylvania DCED ESG dollars to increase the ability to address homeless needs throughout the jurisdiction. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 112

114 If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Not applicable Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 113

115 Annual Goals and Objectives AP 20 Annual Goals and Objectives , (c)(3)&(e) Goals Summary Information Sort Goal Name Order 1 Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Start Year End Year Category Non Homeless Special Needs Non Housing Community Development Economic Development: Job Training Geographic Area Needs Addressed Non Housing Comm. Development Public Facilities Community Development: Public Improvements Community Development: Public Services Economic Development: Job Training Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1 Persons Assisted Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1 Persons Assisted Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1 Households Assisted Other: 1 Other Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 114

116 Sort Goal Name Order 2 Improve Existing Housing Stock 3 Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Start Year End Year Category Affordable Housing Affordable Housing Non Homeless Special Needs Geographic Area Needs Addressed Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units Affordable Housing Rental Assistance Affordable Housing Production of New Units Affordable Housing Acquisition of existing units Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Rental units rehabilitated: 1 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 1 Household Housing Unit Rental units constructed: 1 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Added: 1 Household Housing Unit Tenant based rental assistance / Rapid Rehousing: 1 Households Assisted Housing for Homeless added: 1 Household Housing Unit Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 115

117 Sort Goal Name Order 4 Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Start Year End Year Category Homeless Non Homeless Special Needs Geographic Area Table 55 Goals Summary Needs Addressed Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Homelessness Rapid Re Housing Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Tenant based rental assistance / Rapid Rehousing: 1 Households Assisted Homeless Person Overnight Shelter: 1 Persons Assisted Goal Descriptions 1 Goal Name Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Goal Description Build inclusive and sustainable communities through investments in revitalization and infrastructure improvements in the County's areas of greatest need. 2 Goal Name Improve Existing Housing Stock Goal Description Improve existing affordable housing stock through rehabilitation of owneroccupied and rental housing units. 3 Goal Name Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Goal Description Increase the availability of affordable housing for rental and homeownership by investing in new units, provision of Tenant Based Rental Assistance, and housing for special needs residents. 4 Goal Name Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Goal Description Improve the housing crisis response system by supporting homeless shelter operations and rapid re housing programs that serve homeless and special needs residents. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 116

118 AP 35 Projects , (d) Introduction Complete this section # Project Name 1 Public Services: HMIS 2 CDBG Admin: Housing and Community Development Department 3 Public Services Family Service Association Shelter Operations 4 Public Services: Legal Aid Housing Legal Services 5 Public Services: Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Center 6 Public Improvements: Borough of Penndel Reconstruction of Cynthia Ave. 7 Public Improvements: Dublin Borough Main Street Crosswalk Improvements 8 Public Facilities: Penndel Mental Health Main Center Wiring and Communications 9 Economic Development: Bucks County Enterprise Zone (BC EZ) 10 Public Facilities Housing Rehab: Warminster Heights Roof Replacement 11 Public Facilities Housing Rehab: Bucks County Housing Group Boiler Replacement 12 Public Facilities Housing Rehab: Delta Community Supports Kitchen and Bathroom Renovation 13 Economic Development: Bucks County Community College Job Training Program 14 Habitat for Humanity Jackson Village 15 Interfaith Housing / Housing Visions 16 Pennrose Properties Bensalem Senior Residences 17 HOME Admin: Housing and Community Development Department 18 ESG Shelter: Family Service Association Emergency Shelter 19 ESG Shelter: Bucks County Housing Group Emergency Shelters 20 ESG Shelter: A Woman's Place Emergency Shelter 21 ESG Rapid Re Housing: Bucks County Opportunity Council Re Start Program 22 ESG Admin: Housing and Community Development Department Table 56 Project Information Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 117

119 AP 38 Project Summary Project Summary Information Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 118

120 1 2 Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Public Services: HMIS Funding CDBG: $30,000 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Homelessness Rapid Re Housing Community Development: Public Services Implementation and operations of the Homeless Information Management System (HMIS). County wide project. CDBG Admin: Housing and Community Development Department Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Improve Existing Housing Stock Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units Non Housing Comm. Development Public Facilities Community Development: Public Improvements Community Development: Public Services Economic Development: Job Training Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 119

121 Funding CDBG: $339,670 3 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $149,200 Description Target Date 3/31/2015 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Administration and operations of the Housing and Community Development Department. Public Services: Family Service Association Shelter Operations Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Community Development: Public Services Funding to support the operations of the County's Emergency Homeless Shelter. The FSA Emergency Homeless Shelter provides shelter services to homeless residents residing throughout Bucks County. Public Services: Legal Aid Housing Legal Services Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 120

122 4 5 Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $52,000 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $22,800 Description Target Date 3/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Community Development: Public Services Housing legal services for homeless and low income residents. Services are provided county wide. Public Services: Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Center Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Community Development: Public Services Funding to support the operations of the Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Center. The Eastern Upper Bucks Senior Center is located in Nockamixon Township. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 121

123 6 7 Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $355,460 Description Target Date 3/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $162,500 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Public Improvements: Borough of Penndel Reconstruction of Cynthia Ave. Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Community Development: Public Improvements Funding to support reconstruction of Cynthia Avenue 1,000 ft. of road improvements, curbs, sidewalks and driveways. Project is located in Penndel Borough. Public Improvements: Dublin Borough Main Street Crosswalk Improvements Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Community Development: Public Improvements Funding to support improvements in Dublin Borough on Main St. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 122

124 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 8 9 Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $71,250 Description Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Project is located in Dublin Borough. Add info for project location and area incomes from application. Public Facilities: Penndel Mental Health Main Center Wiring and Communications Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Community Development: Public Services Facility is located in Penndel Borough. Economic Development: Bucks County Enterprise Zone (BC EZ) Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Economic Development Funding CDBG: $100,000 Description Funding to support the implementation of the BC EZ Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 123

125 Target Date 3/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Public Facilities Housing Rehab: Warminster Heights Roof Replacement Improve Existing Housing Stock Funding CDBG: $170,000 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units Funding to support the replacement of 10 roofs (40 units) on the Warminster Heights apartment buildings. Project is located in Warminster Heights. Public Facilities Housing Rehab: Bucks County Housing Group Boiler Replacement Improve Existing Housing Stock Non Housing Comm. Development Public Facilities Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 124

126 Funding CDBG: $128, Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $42,773 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Funding to support the replacement of the boiler at the Robert Morris apartments serving two buildings (39 units). Public Facilities Housing Rehab: Delta Community Supports Kitchen and Bathroom Renovation Improve Existing Housing Stock Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units Funding to support the renovation of the kitchen and bathroom at the Lantern Lane group home located in Trevose PA. Economic Development: Bucks County Community College Job Training Program Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 125

127 13 14 Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding CDBG: $98,000 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Build Inclusive and Sustainable Communities Economic Development: Job Training Funding to support the employment training program at Bucks County Community College Habitat for Humanity Jackson Village Funding HOME: $1,020,000 Description Target Date 8/31/2018 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Affordable Housing Production of New Units Funding to support the development and construction of 12 new single family ranch style homes in Bensalem Township. This project will provide homeownership opportunities for twelve families. There will be ten three bedroom homes and two four bedroom homes built. Habitat will target families with incomes of less than 60% MFI. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 126

128 15 16 Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding HOME: $33,643 Description Target Date 12/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed The project is located on Gibson Road in Bensalem Township, Bucks County. County Parcel Number Habitat will develop a several acre property into a cul de sac and twelve single family homes. Interfaith Housing / Housing Visions Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities IHDC and Housing Visions intend to form an alliance and work together to restore IHDC CHDO Status and continue to develop affordable housing units. n/a n/a Funding HOME: $200,000 IHDC and Housing Visions intend to create a new entity that will restore the IHDC CHDO status and continue developing affordable housing units in Bucks County, while maintaining the existing rentals in the IHDC portfolio. Pennrose Properties Bensalem Senior Residences Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Affordable Housing Production of New Units Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 127

129 17 Description Target Date 12/18/2017 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding HOME: $67,287 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Funding to support the development and construction of a three story, 61 unit affordable rental housing development for County residents age 62 and older. The project will provide affordable rental housing for 61 families. The units will be for residents aged 62 and older with a preference given to veterans Mechanicsville Road, Bensalem New construction of a 3 story, 61 unit affordable rental housing development for County residents aged 62 and older, with a preference given to veterans. Four units will be available to households earning less than 20% AMI, twenty nine units available to households earning less than 50% AMI and the remaining twenty eight units available to households earning less than 60% AMI. A minimum of eight units will be reserved for individuals with physical disabilities and at least two will be reserved for those with hearing and visual impairments. HOME Admin: Housing and Community Development Department Improve Existing Housing Stock Increase Affordable Housing Opportunities Affordable Housing Rehab of existing units Affordable Housing Production of New Units Affordable Housing Acquisition of existing units Funding to support the administration of the HOME Program. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 128

130 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities n/a Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed n/a Funding ESG: $70,000 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding ESG: $25,000 Description Funding to support the administration of the HOME Program. ESG Shelter: Family Service Association Emergency Shelter Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Funding to support the operations of the Family Service Association Emergency Homeless Shelter. ESG Shelter: Bucks County Housing Group Emergency Shelters Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Funding to support the operations of two homeless shelters located in Doylestown and Penndel. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 129

131 Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding ESG: $5,000 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed ESG Shelter: A Woman's Place Emergency Shelter Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Funding to support the operations of the emergency shelter for domestic violence victims operated by A Woman's Place. ESG Rapid Re Housing: Bucks County Opportunity Council Re Start Program Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Rapid Re Housing Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 130

132 Funding ESG: $45, Description Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Project Name Target Area Goals Supported Needs Addressed Funding ESG: $11,775 Description Target Date 3/31/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Funding to support the Re Start Economic Self Sufficiency Program providing emergency housing assistance and case management to stabilize households and move them toward permanent housing. ESG Admin: Housing and Community Development Department Improve the Housing Crisis Response System Homelessness Emergency Shelter and Trans. Housing Homelessness Rapid Re Housing Funding to support the administration of the ESG Program. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 131

133 AP 50 Geographic Distribution , (f) Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed Bucks County ranks 4th out of 76 counties in population overall in Pennsylvania, after Philadelphia, Allegheny County (Pittsburgh), and Montgomery County. Positioned near the center of the large metropolitan area of the northeastern United States, the county is within easy reach of Allentown/Bethlehem/Easton, Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York. Bucks County is comprised of 54 municipalities (23 boroughs and 31 townships) and has no unincorporated areas within its 600 square mile area. Bucks County can be divided into three general regional areas: upper Bucks, central Bucks and lower Bucks County. Generally, upper Bucks is more rural in character than the other regions, central Bucks contains rural and suburbanized areas, and lower Bucks is considered more urbanized. Geographic Distribution Target Area Percentage of Funds Bucks County Non Site Specific 100 Table 57 Geographic Distribution Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically While Bucks County is home to affluent and middle class residents, the areas of low income concentration are found mainly in the urban areas closest to Philadelphia (lower Bucks) and in the older boroughs in each region of the county. There are no specific geographic priorities identified for housing and community development activities funded through these programs. Bucks County will work to target funding to areas that benefit low and moderate income residents while giving consideration to the geographic diversity of the county as a whole. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 133

134 Affordable Housing AP 55 Affordable Housing , (g) Introduction One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless Non Homeless Special Needs Total Table 58 One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Rental Assistance The Production of New Units Rehab of Existing Units Acquisition of Existing Units Total Table 59 One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 134

135 AP 60 Public Housing , (h) Introduction The Bucks County Housing Authority (BCHA) manages 648 Public Housing units and administers 2,801 tenant and project based vouchers. The BCHA will continue to operate under its PHA Plan for the administration of the Public Housing and Section 8 Programs and will follow its Capital Improvement Plan for repairs and improvements to the 7 Public Housing developments it operates. Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing The BCHA will continue to participate in the CoC to identify additional resources and support services to address the needs of residents of Public Housing and Section 8. The Section 8 waiting list, which had been closed for approximately 5 years, was re opened in the spring of 2015 and will begin accepting new applications in the coming year. The BCHA will continue to pursue additional sources of funding including VASH Vouchers, Family Unification Program Vouchers, and any other special needs Vouchers that become available to add to the pool of existing Section 8. Additionally, the BCHA will continue to partner with public and private organizations to improve services and address the needs of Public Housing residents including the Area Agency on Aging, Family Service Association, and the Bucks County Opportunity Council. Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership The BCHA Board of Directors includes a Public Housing resident and the PH developments have organized Resident Councils in order for resident input to be integrated into BCHA administration and policies. The BCHA also operates a Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program in coordination with the Bucks County Opportunity Council. The FSS Coordinator works closely with participants to identify their goals and action steps necessary to achieve self sufficiency. Residents are encouraged to participate and many complete their goals, including achieving homeownership over the course of the 5 year program. If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance The PHA is not designated as troubled. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 135

136 AP 65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities , (i) Introduction 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 DHCD will coordinate with the CoC to continue to conduct outreach to unsheltered homeless persons mainly through the Penndel Mental Health Center PATH program and The Valley Youth House Synergy Project (youth outreach) with assistance from faith based groups, social service agencies, and the County Departments of Mental Health/Developmental Programs, Corrections, Behavioral Health Systems, and the Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission. These agencies are all active participants in the CoC and coordinate with other housing and support services agencies serving the homeless. The goals for outreach to homeless persons include increasing the number of contacts to homeless persons, increasing the number of SOAR applications submitted by/ on behalf of homeless persons, and decreasing the number of unsheltered homeless and runaway youth. The County and the CoC will continue to work to achieve this goal by providing funding for a youth street outreach program. Performance measures will also be established by the CoC during the coming year to evaluate the effectiveness of the homeless outreach efforts. Performance measures include: increasing connections of homeless youth to supportive housing services, providing SOAR training to outreach workers, and increasing collaboration between the PATH program and shelters that serve chronically homeless individuals. Homeless persons identified through the outreach efforts will be referred to the Bucks County Housing Link. The Bucks County Housing Link is the central point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing crisis. It includes a Call Center and several Assessment Centers which serve all persons experiencing a housing crisis in Bucks County. The Housing Link, accessed by phone, screens callers with a brief interview to determine the household s basic eligibility for housing assistance and refers them to the nearest regional coordinated assessment center. The coordinated assessment centers schedule an in person appointment. At this appointment, the coordinated assessment center determines the level of housing assistance needed to resolve the crisis and the available assistance options. Persons in crisis are then connected with the most appropriate housing assistance program to resolve their crisis. Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The CoC has established goals to address the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons throughout Bucks County. These goals include reducing the length of stay at an Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 136

137 emergency shelter for families and individuals, increasing the number of persons who exit transitional housing programs to permanent housing destinations, and increasing the number of persons employed at exit from transitional and permanent housing programs. Bucks County utilizes its entitlement Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), along with competitive funding through the Pennsylvania ESG program, to support emergency shelter operations as well as rapid re housing programs. Additionally, CoC program funding is allocated to support the Housing Link and four Transitional Housing programs. Length of stay in shelters: The length of time spent in emergency shelters will be reduced by prioritizing ESG grant funding for Rapid Re Housing projects that serve emergency shelter clients and the literally homeless. Additionally, many housing agencies within the CoC work together to prioritize participants residing at the emergency shelter or living on the streets when permanent housing assistance is available. Persons exiting to permanent housing: The CoC will monitor progress towards increasing the number of persons exiting to permanent housing destinations through quarterly reviews of HMIS data and annual reviews of CoC Project Annual Performance Reports. Organizations who operate emergency shelter and transitional housing programs will continue to participate on internal task forces that have been created to identify and implement solutions specific to their target population. The CoC has found that increased collaboration between agencies during the discharge process and the submission of joint applications for housing program funding have helped to create more positive outcomes for residents leaving these housing programs. Increased employment at program exit: The CoC will address this goal by holding sessions on improving workforce development for emergency shelter, transitional, and permanent supportive housing clients. The CoC will work to expand partnerships with community colleges, increase on the job training opportunities, and increase collaboration with the local Workforce Investment Board. 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 CoC has established goals to increase the number of persons who move from emergency shelter and transitional housing to permanent housing and independent living. A program targeting transitionage youth will continue to rental assistance and intensive case management and employment counseling to increase the likelihood that participants will maintain permanent housing upon exiting the program. The CoC will continue to prioritize permanent housing programs when allocating its annual funding. CoC funded permanent supportive housing programs will continue to provide housing and Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 137

138 support services to chronically homeless individuals with mental health/substance abuse issues. Special populations, including chronically homeless, mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence victims, veterans, and youth will also be targeted for permanent housing programs. Bucks County will continue to prioritize rapid re housing programs that provide short and medium term rental assistance and case management to increase the number of households obtaining and maintaining permanent housing. 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. Bucks County will coordinate with multiple systems to reduce the number of residents that experience homelessness during the coming year. The Bucks County Housing Link, the County s centralized intake/assessment system, will continue to include a broad marketing and outreach campaign to landlords, district judges, other institutions, and renters so that residents are aware of and can take advantage of diversion and prevention options before becoming homeless. Secondly, Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) funding from Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare will continue to be targeted towards preventing evictions and helping homeless persons move into permanent housing. HAP program parameters have been modified in order to provide assistance to more residents as the demand increases. Third, discharge planning from institutions is a cross systems issue that is being explored through new housing projects and collaboration on service based training. For example, Corrections is increasing collaboration with the CoC in order to provide more housing opportunities for persons who would be homeless upon discharge and has participated in CoC wide SOAR training. Local hospitals have a history of collaborating with non profit housing providers in order to offer long term permanent housing for residents with disabilities. The Department of Children and Youth Social Services is engaged in providing housing opportunities for at risk families with children as a diversion from foster care as well. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 138

139 AP 75 Barriers to affordable housing , (j) Introduction 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 The County fosters and maintains the development of affordable housing by continuing to support the scattered site and focused housing units for low income and formerly homeless families. As appropriate, families participate in a self sufficiency program prior to occupying to the housing unit, reducing the number of poverty level families in Bucks County. The homeownership and homeowner rehab programs enable low/moderate income families to become homeowners and enable current homeowners to remain in their home when code issues jeopardize the ability to do so. The TBRA program continues to provide rental assistance to homeless families while participating in a two year self sufficiency program, allowing them to maintain housing and earn a sustainable wage after completing the program. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 139

140 AP 85 Other Actions , (k) Introduction Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing Actions planned to reduce lead based paint hazards Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty level families Actions planned to develop institutional structure Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 140

141 Program Specific Requirements AP 90 Program Specific Requirements , (l)(1,2,4) Introduction Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Reference 24 CFR (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. 1. The total amount of program income that will have been received before the start of the next program year and that has not yet been reprogrammed 0 2. The amount of proceeds from section 108 loan guarantees that will be used during the year to address the priority needs and specific objectives identified in the grantee's strategic plan The amount of surplus funds from urban renewal settlements 0 4. The amount of any grant funds returned to the line of credit for which the planned use has not been included in a prior statement or plan 0 5. The amount of income from float funded activities 0 Total Program Income: 0 Other CDBG Requirements 1. The amount of urgent need activities 0 2. The estimated percentage of CDBG funds that will be used for activities that benefit persons of low and moderate income.overall Benefit A consecutive period of one, two or three years may be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income. Specify the years covered that include this Annual Action Plan. 0.00% HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) Reference 24 CFR (l)(2) 1. A description of other forms of investment being used beyond those identified in Section is as follows: 2. A description of the guidelines that will be used for resale or recapture of HOME funds when used Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 141

142 for homebuyer activities as required in , is as follows: 3. A description of the guidelines for resale or recapture that ensures the affordability of units acquired with HOME funds? See 24 CFR (a)(4) are as follows: 4. Plans for using HOME funds to refinance existing debt secured by multifamily housing that is rehabilitated with HOME funds along with a description of the refinancing guidelines required that will be used under 24 CFR (b), are as follows: Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Reference (l)(4) 1. Include written standards for providing ESG assistance (may include as attachment) 2. If the Continuum of Care has established centralized or coordinated assessment system that meets HUD requirements, describe that centralized or coordinated assessment system. 3. Identify the process for making sub awards and describe how the ESG allocation available to private nonprofit organizations (including community and faith based organizations). 4. If the jurisdiction is unable to meet the homeless participation requirement in 24 CFR (a), the jurisdiction must specify its plan for reaching out to and consulting with homeless or formerly homeless individuals in considering policies and funding decisions regarding facilities and services funded under ESG. 5. Describe performance standards for evaluating ESG. Discussion Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 142

143 Appendix Alternate/Local Data Sources 1 Data Source Name American Community Survey 5 Year Estimat List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. US Census Bureau Provide a brief summary of the data set. Updated community and demographic data What was the purpose for developing this data set? How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? National What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? 2 Complete Data Source Name 2010 Census List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. United States Census Bureau Provide a brief summary of the data set. Demographic profile data What was the purpose for developing this data set? How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? National Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 143

144 What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? 2010 What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? 3 Complete Data Source Name Consultation with PHA List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. Donald Grondahl, Executive Director, Bucks County Housing Authority Provide a brief summary of the data set. In person consultation was conducted to collect the most current PHA information available. What was the purpose for developing this data set? Provide current PIC data Provide the year (and optionally month, or month and day) for when the data was collected. April 17, 2015 Briefly describe the methodology for the data collection. The PHA provided current data based on queries to the Management Information System and Waiting Lists. Describe the total population from which the sample was taken. Describe the demographics of the respondents or characteristics of the unit of measure, and the number of respondents or units surveyed. 4 Data Source Name January 2014 Housing Inventory Chart List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. Bucks County Housing and Community Development Department Provide a brief summary of the data set. Description of Emergency Shelter, Transitional Housing and Permanent Supportive Housing units available in Bucks County. What was the purpose for developing this data set? Analyze available facilities available to house homeless persons. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 144

145 How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? The data covers Bucks County, Pennsylvania. What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? Information is available as a snapshot in time for one day in January, What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? 5 Complete Data Source Name HMIS List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development/HMIS Coordinator Provide a brief summary of the data set. Data includes all information on the homeless population and homeless services provided throughout Bucks County. What was the purpose for developing this data set? Data is collected to monitor and evaluate the homeless crisis response system and assist in reducing the homeless population in Bucks County. How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? Data is collected on all homeless residents who receive housing and support services throughout the jurisdiction. What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? Calendar Year 2014 What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? Complete Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 145