Authorize the City Manager to submit an alternate proposal, at the request of \n \n NeighborWorks Columbus to utilize the Georgia Department of Community Affairs \n \n $400,000 Home Investment Partnership Program Grant awarded to the City to \n \n provide low income rental housing for veterans in the Beallwood community.
Approval
Pending
Background
In Resolution 62-14, Council authorized the City Manager, in partnership with
NeighborWorks Columbus, to submit an application to the Georgia Department of
Community Affairs (DCA) for a Home Investment Partnership Program Grant. The
City was awarded a $400,000 grant to provide low income rental housing for
veterans in the Winterfield area. Additional funding for the housing program
would come from program income through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program.
Analysis
NeighborWorks Columbus initiated design and engineering services for the
Winterfield project upon notification of the DCA grant award. During this
process it was determined there were significant engineering and infrastructure
challenges to the development. The organization also conducted a marketability
assessment which indicated the project did not appear to be viable. Based on
these results, NeighborWorks pursued other alternatives to utilize the DCA
funds for low income rental housing for veterans in the community.
NeighborWorks is partnering with TEAMeffort, a college student ministry
organization to perform home repairs and maintenance on homes in the Beallwood
area. Neighborworks is recommending the DCA funds be reallocated to the
Beallwood area to provide low income rental housing in conjunction with the
TEAMeffort project. The two projects would constitute a significant
neighborhood revitalization project. If approved by Council, the alternative
proposal would have to be submitted to DCA for final approval.
Financial Considerations
DCA grant funds and program income from the Neighborhood Stabilization Program
would be utilized for the program.
Projected Annual Fiscal Impact Statement
None
Legal Considerations
Council must approve submission of the alternate proposal.
Recommendations/ Actions
Authorize the City Manager to submit an alternate proposal, at the request of
NeighborWorks Columbus to utilize the Georgia Department of Community Affairs
$400,000 Home Investment Partnership Program Grant awarded to the City to
provide low income rental housing for veterans in the Beallwood community.