1998-04-06 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Cox said he is not in favor of changing the language as long as the priority does not encourage conversion to Section 8. Ms. Richards expressed concern that the multi-family language could encourage more low-income housing development. Mr. Toscano made a motion to include the following priorities in the draft Consolidated Plan: 1) Increase opportunities for first time homebuyers; 2) Rehabilitate or replace substandard owner occupied homes; 3) Rehabilitate substandard renter-occupied homes and multi-family units; and 4) Assist existing special needs groups (elderly-, disabled, homeless and single parent families). Ms. Richards seconded the motion. Responding to a question from Mr. Cox, Ms. Borcharding said that many other funds are Used by low-income renters. Mr. Cox asked why the Consolidated Plan is proposed to be changed, and Ms. Slaughter replied that Council is trying to bring their housing strategies into the Consolidated Plan. Ms. Richards said that she had previously assumed that the Consolidated Plan was used in the scoring by VHDA for approving Iow-income housing developments, but is finding that is not the case. Ms. Daugherty noted that the Consolidated Plan is a regional plan and the City has been trying to work with the region to have a balanced approach to housing, and the Plan is a means to send a message to others in the region about the need for this balanced approach. Ms. Slaughter said that the City is the only one in the region to focus on low-income renters and other localities in the region need to pick up their share of low-income rental housing. Ms. Slaughter added that the current priorities perpetuate the dividing of the region. Mr. Toscano agreed that there is a need for a regional housing plan. Mr. Toscano's motion to approve the draft priorities was approved by the following vote. Ayes: Ms. Daugherty, Ms. Richards, Ms. Slaughter, Mr. Toscano. Noes: Mr. Cox. Mr. Cox asked that information be provided to clarify what assistance has been provided to Iow-income renters in the past. Mr. Toscano said that residents of Crescent Hall were recently given a brochure stating that the City does not want them in the City and only wants homeowners. Mr. Toscano said he feels people should think twice about using such untrue scare tactics. Ms. Borcharding said that the draft changes will be available in the public libraries and in the Department of Community Development, and comments should be submitted in writing to the Department of Community Development. Ms. Richards said that her vote on the proposed changes was made with the full understanding that eliminating the priority that states: "Provide financial assistance and support services to low-income renters" will have no impact on funding for low-income people. ORDINANCE: INOPERATIVE MOTOR VEHICLES Mr. Clyde Gouldman, City Attorney, explained that the ordinance will limit the number of inoperative motor vehicles allowed outside, with an approved cover, on residential areas to one.