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96-5271 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 I1 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 ]9 20 21 22 23 24 25 ;, , , �} ��. . � , . . : �. ? Presented Referred �`��-�`tq�( �� O�Siy�q Council File # ��5�� pre ram ' y �metV 0� y� t}�� y-e �J ) Green Sheet # � � RESOLU ION G� l 9� 9� OF ,SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA � +'I / Committee: Date RESOLUTION APPROVING 'PFIE 1996-1997 HOUSING ACTION PROGRAM WfIEREAS, the City Council, upon recommendation of the Plauning Commission and the Mayor, adopted the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990's as the housing chapter of the City Comprehensive plan on September 24, 1990; and WHEREAS, the Policy Plan requires the development of an annual unplementation program outlining city housing activities to implement plan policies and goals, and the agencies and deparknents responsibie for those activities, and also requires the submission of a progress report to the Mayor and City Council; and WHEREAS, the Housing Coordination Team, consisting of directors and representatives from various city agencies and departments involved in housing activities including the PED Housing Division, the PED Planrung Division, 5aint Paul Public Health, the Police Department, the Citizen 5ervice Office, the Housing Information Office, the Department of Fire and Safety Services and the Saint Paul Public Housing Agency, developed the proposed 1996-1997 Housing Action Program and the 1994-1995 Accomplishments report; and WHEREAS, the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990's was developed with considerable input from the community and from housing arganizations and input has been requested from public and private housing partners regarding the 1996-1997 Housing Action Program; am�� NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Saint Paul City Council approves the(�1996-1997 Housing Action Program as the City's annual implementation program for 1996 and 1997 and accepts the 1994-1995 progress report. Requested by Department of: Plannin � Econom' evelo ment By: .4 � Adopted by Council: Date Adopti�pn Certified by Cou � Approved � � Secretary Date �j �/� h n — `7 — r Form Approved by City Attorney BY� � � Y —� _�— Approved by Mayor Submission to By��-------('/=s-�'- v� _ . q�- S�.� DEPA�T,/dE[J7(QFF�(`.FjGpU[Jj'jL DATE IyQ p7�q96 1 V� 2 9 7 21 rc�� i��Mi�ivnvU usn4i GREEN SHEE INRIAUDATE INITIAVDATE DEPAHTMENT DIRECTOR CITY COUNGL °ON �et�i E �aitr P � ° -�i580; Ken Ford 6-6577 � � � - ASSIGN � GTY ATTOPNEY _� �3 ^ � CRY CIERK MUST BE CAUNClI AGENDA BY (DATE) NUMBEFi FOH ❑ BUOGET OIREC[OR �--� O FIN. 8 MGT. SERVICES �lft. AOVfiNG ONOEN MAYOR(ORASSIST TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES � (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) ACTION REWESTED: . Mayor to review and approve attached 1996-1997 Housing Action Program and transmit to City Council for final approval. RECOMMEN�ATIONS: Approve (A) or qeject (R) pEflSONAL SERVICE CON7RACiS MUST ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: _ PLANNING COMMISSION _ CIVIL SFRVICE CAMMISSION i, Has Nis personffirtn ever worked under a contract for this tlepartment? GIB CAMMITTEE _ YES NO A STAFF Z. Has this person/firm ever been a ciry employee? — YES NO _ DIS7P7CT COUFiT _ 3. Does this personpRm pos5es5 a skifl not norma�ly pos5essetl by any curtenf city employee? SUPPORTS W WCN CAUNCfl08JECTIVE? YES NO Explafn all yea answera on separate sheet anC attach tu green sheet INITIATMG PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTUNITY (Who, What, Wheq Where, Why)� . The Saint Pau� Housing Policy for the 1990's, the housing chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan adopted by the City Council in 1990, requires the development of an annual implementation progr MAR 20 1996 AAAYOR'S QFF{£€ ADVANTAGESIFAPPROVED; A work program for 1996 and 1997 will be estabiished that continues to implement the poficies of the Housing Policy for the 1990s. DISADVA IFAPPROVED: IV p � + y '�e�@ � 3�AR 7 8 1996 � �:,� � �� '�� DISADVAN7AGES IF NOTAPPROVED. Working without an approved Housing Action Program will make it difficult for the Mayor and City Council to monitor proqress on housing policies as well as make it di�cult for city departments to coordinate their housing activities. TOTAL AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION $ 'Y COST(REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE) YES NO FUNDIIdG 50URCE AC7IVITY NUMBER � FINANCIAL INFORMATION (EXPLAIN) qG-s�� Interdepartmental Memorandum CIT'Y OF SAINT PAUL Mazch 14, 1996 TO: Mayor Coleman FROM: Ken Ford, PED Planning Division Gary Peltier, PED Housing Division Beth Bartz, PED Planning Division RE: 1996-1997 HOUSING ACTION PROGRAM ACTION REQUESTED Y A. Please review and approve the attached 1996-1997 Housing Action Proguu and transmit to the City Council for final approval. _ B. For your information only. On behalf of the Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team, we aze pleased to submit to you our proposed Housing Action Program for 1996-1997. The Housing Coordinatiion Team believes this challenging program will help us realize the goals outlined in The Housing Policy for the 1990s and improve the quality of housing for all Saint Paul residents. We would also like to draw your attention to the discussion of our 1994-1995 Accomplishments which begins with a summary table on page 15. We aze pleased that we were able to accomplish many of the activities listed in the 1994-1995 Housing Action Program. We would be happy to provide you with a briefing of the Housing Action Program at your convenience. Please contact Beth Bartz, Planning Division, 266-6580 to make arrangements. cc. Lany Buegler, Director, PED 9�-sa 7 Housing Action Program for 1996-1997 Amendments under consideration for City Council Action A . Suggested amendments that may require little discussion Page 4, Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownerslup Incendves Objectives ��1 1. proposed addition (Megard): Encoura�e Drivate sector to create new housinQ to meet mazket demands. Comment The cunent policy does not emphasize expansion of the housing supply generally, because our neighborhoods face a situation of a weak market, particularly at the "starter home" level. It does encourage new housing to 1) resgond to particular market opportunities that compliment the existing supply and 2) further neighborhood redevelopment. Possible revised addition: Encouraee the �rivate sector to create new '� housine in response to market demand consistent with neiehborhood development obiectives. Activities 2. f. proposed modiFication (Rettman): Continue to provide ci wlde homebuying counseline and finance information through HIO. Estimate 700-800 inquiries during 1996-1997.(HIO) C �� 3. proposed addition (Megard): Initiate discussion with nrivate mort,�aae lenders, the real estate community, community develo�ment co;porations and neiehborhoods to provide new housing in all price ranges to meet mazket demands - for instance for sale town homes. Comment Possible modified amendment: Initiate discussion with private mort�age lenders. the �i real estate communitv, communitv development corporations and nei¢hborhoods to provide new housin ig n all price ran�es to meet market demands - consistent with neighborhood develonment objectives. The issue of what additions to the housing supply would be most beneficial should be further addressed in review of the housing policy. 96-5�7 Page 5, Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehab Financing Activities 4. d. proposed modification (Rettman): add ...through the Houses to Homes Program and other citv or HRA�rograms. Comment Useful ciarification. 5. proposed addition (Rettman): Aggressively market the housin� rehab tax incentive benefit established bv the "This Old House" program. (PED, AIO) Comment This is consistent with the recognized need to improve access to the housing resources. 6. proposed addition (Megard): Participate in Home Tour to showcase nei2hborhoods• sup�ort other neighborhood-based home tours. Commenr This is consistent with current practice. proposed addition (Megard): Work in coRaborafion with banks and mortea¢e companies to develop financine tools for housin� renovation. � alternative addition (PED, advisors): In collaboration with nrivate and non- rofit �artners exolore means for substantial expansion of owner and renter �ronerty rehabilitation. tar¢eted for sienificant 'mpact on investment in Saint Paul neighborhoods. Comment An effort to expand rehabilitation activity, and to target it where appropriate, to the point that it has a more substaniial nnpact on the housing market in city neighborhoods, was recommended by a group of advisors from many sectors who reviewed the draft Housing Action Program. An expanded effort is also recommended by the draft Community Development Agenda. The city's policy recognizes that it is more cost effective to encourage adequate maintenance and incremental improvement rather than aliow the deterioration that leads to disinvestment and expensive replacement. F? 9� -5a7 Page 6,7 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing Activities 8. d. proposed modification (Megard and Rettman) delete "through the Safe Ciry Initiative." 4. q. proposed modification (Megard): Add Public Health to graffiti enforcement. Page 11, Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regional Basis Activities 10. proposed addition (Megard): Increase market driven housing opportunities b� workin¢ in collaboration with the Qrivate sector. i.e., for sale town homes. Comment This intent should be covered by Priority Action 1, but may add balance desirable for understanding under this priority action. Page 12, Priority Action 7, Improve Information and Communication Activities 11. a. proposed modification (Megard): Work collaboratively with neighborhood-based crime nrevention and block club oreanizine activities• continue sup op rt for neiQhborhood crime orevention. Comment Suggestion: Add the current "add 280 block clubs in 1996" to the proposed new language. Page 13, I'riority Action 8, Support Strategic Neighborhood Improvement Objectives 12. proposed addition (Megard): Bncourage citizen involvement in decision making. Comment This may be covered by the present language; "Ensure neighborhood-level and broad public commitment to unprovement decisions." 3 � 9� -5� 7 13. proposed addition (Rettman): Review the proposed Communitv DeveloDment Aeenda. After review, a Community Development Agenda mav be adopted by the Council and the Mavor. Comment It is the intent of the task force and the Mayor to bring final recommendations of the Community Development Agenda forward for City Councii adoption. (Np� 14. proposed addition (PED and advisors): Revise the City Plan housing polic� to ( provide a stronPer framework for neSghborhood and citv housin�decisions responsive to current uends and oQDOrtunities. 0 96 Housing Action Program for 1996-1997 Amendments under consideration for Ciry Council Acfion: Adendum A List: Item inadvertently omitted Page b,7 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing Proposed addition (Rettman): ImDlement the Citv Lead Hazard Reduction Proe under the HUD Lead Based Paint Grant Program, as well as under the Housina Rehabilitation Program: imolement the Hazardous Waste Removal Pro�ram (PED, PH, HIO) Comment -- This item applies to both code enforcement and rehabilita[ion and could be listed in more than one place. Since it applies to owner as well as rental housing, we suggest placing it under Priority Action 2, Owner and Rental Rehabilitation. ��i:4.�� aL.. . a � �„a.. _ z,s °IG—S�� SAINT PAUL �'" � S4IISING �OLICY , �� FOR THE 1990'S �� . �. HOZTSING ACTIOIV PROGRAM aS�. "�I Amended and adopted by the City Council, June 19, 1996 CTTY OP SAiN'I' PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor Saint Paul Department of Pianniug and Economic Development Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety 5ervices Saint Paul Housing Information Office Saint Paul Police DepartmenL Saint Paul Public Heakh Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Saint Paul City Attorney's Office 9� -5�� Credits Housing Coordination Team Gary Peltier, Housing Division, PED, Chair Ken Ford, Planning Division, PED Jon Gutrmann, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency AI Hester, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Neal Holtan, Saint Paul Public Health Pam Hutton, City Attorney's Office Chris Krueger, Citizen Service Office Chris Lukesh, Housing Information Office Fred Owusu, Citizen Service Office Charles Votel, Saint Paui Public Health Steve Zaccard, Saint Paui Department of Fire and Safety Services Administration and Project Staff Larry Buegler, PED Director Ken Ford, Planning Administrator, PED Beth Bartz, Pla�ning Division, PED Katy Lindblad, Housing Division, PED Sue Huriey, Director's Office, PED Joan Hagen-Chin, Graphics, PED PED Print Shop The City of Saint Paul does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, sex, sexual or affectiona/ orientation, age, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, marital status, religion, veteran status, or status with regard to public assistance in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. 9� -5�7 Table ot Contents /ntroduction Priority Actions � Prioriry Action 1: Continue Home Ownership Incentives 4 Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehab Financing 5 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compiiance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing 6 Priority Action 4: Improve Rental Housing Management 8 Priority Action 5: Address Speciai Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Population while Supporting Neighborhood Quality 10 Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regional Basis 11 Priority Action 7: Improve Information and Communication 12 Priority Action 8: Support Strategic Neighborhood Improvement 13 1994-1995 Accomp/ishmenfs 15 Appendix A: Public, Private and Non-Profit Partnerships 25 Appendiz B: Resources and Programs 26 1 List of Abbreviations The following abbreviations are used throughout this document: CAO Saint Paul City Attorney's Office CDBG Community Development Block Grants (federal) F Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety Services HCT Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team HIO Saint Paul Housing Information Office HRA Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority • HUD Department of Housing and Urban Development (federal) LIEP Saint Paul Department of License, Inspections and Environmental Protection P Saint Paul Police Department PED Saint Paul Department of Planning and Economic Development PH Saint Paul Public Heafth PHA Saint Paul Public Housing Authority STAR Saint Paul Neighborhood Sales Tax Revitalization Program 2 96-�?7 lntroduction The 199b-1997 NousingAdion Program presents the housing activities proposed by City departments in coordination with many public and private partners for the next two years. Since the adoption of the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990s, annual or biennial Housing Adion Programs have been prepared to ensure continuing review and implementation of the policies adopted in che plan. This Housing Action Program follows those policies and acknow(edges recent housing policy and program initiatives and discussions: the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, the Minnesota Community Rehab Initiative, the Community Development Agenda, and evaluation of the Houses to Homes Program. The 1996-1997 HousingAction Program will also serve as Saint Paul's action plan required by the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act. in that capacity, it will be submitted to the Metropolitan Council to document the City's intended actions to carry out its agreed upon housing goals. The i 996-1997 Housing Action Program is divided into two sections: Priority Actions and Accomplishments. The Priority Actions, developed for the 1994-1995 Housing Action Plan, remain relevant and were used to organize the 1996-1997 action steps as well as other information about Saint Paul's housing services. (Note: The Priority Actions are not intended to be a comprehensive list of City housing activities. Many ongoing housing related adivities such as routine code inspections and energy loans are not highlighted due to their large volume.) The Accomplishments section reports ali City departments' housing services accomplishments over the past two years. These incfude: • assisting 495 households purchase a home • providing financial assistance for the rehab of 978 housing units • addressing 787 vacant houses • performing 93,432 housing inspections • providing 43,054 individuals with information about Saint Paul housing programs and opportunities The two appendices list the City's public and private partners and City housing programs and their involvement in the Priority Actions. The Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team, established in 1991 to ensure comm�nication among city agencies, produced the 1996-1997 Housing Action Program w+th generous input form the C+ty Council Community and Economic Development Committee. The Housing Coordination Team, comprised of key directors from the Housing and Planning Divisions of the Department of Planning and Economic Development (PED), the Division of Public Health, the Pubiic Housing Agency, the Housing Information Office, the Citizen Service Office, the Police Department, and the Department of Fire and Safety Services, meets regularly to review and coordinate housing-related activities. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program must be approved by Mayor Norm Coleman and the Saint Paul Cicy Council. Priority Acfion 1: Continue Home Ownership /ncentives Objectives Encourage residents to invest in their community through home purchase. Promote ownership solutions where appro,ariate for lower-income residents. (Housrng Policy for the 7990s: Objective 13) Increase levels of owner-occupancy. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 4; Capital Allocation Policy: 1996-2000. 3.2.1, E-7, p.22) Encourage the private sector to create new housing in response to market demand consistent with neighborhood deve/opment objectives. Public Purpose and City Ro/e Mortgage lending should be done in Saint Paul primarily by the private sector. When community reinvestment priorities exist, special private lender initiatives should be encouraged, However, when tF�ere are special needs important to tl�e City's objective for sta6fe neighborhoods and adequate housing for residents, the government sf�ould sponsor lending programs. Experience sfiows that sound lending through a public program can effectively meet some critical needs not adequately addressed by the priva[e sector. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to provide financing for homebuyers of a wide range of incomes through the Middle lncome Housing Fund and the Minneapolis/Saint Paul First Time Home Buyers and Take Credit! programs. Estimate 245 mortgages per year. (PED) b. Continue to provide Family Housing Fund special assistance loans to low-to-moderate income families to enable them to purchase homes. Estimate assistance to 50 families each year. (PED) c. Enable 30 additionai low income families (15 each year) to purchase homes and move out of pubiic housing or Section 8 rent-assisted apartments, through the PHA HOME program. (PHA) d. Continue to assist the 35 fow income former public housing and Section 8 renter househofds in the PHA's HOMEWARD rent to own program, as they work toward fuf( homeownership. (PHA) e. Continue efforts to retain homeowners in danger of foreclosure through the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance program. Estimate 400-500 househoids in 1996-1997. (HIO) f. Continue to provide citywide homebuying counseling and finance information through the HIO. Estimate 700-800 inquiries in 1996-1997. (HIO) g. Continue to provide financial support to the Home Ownership Center to continue city-wide home ownership counseling, which provides assistance to approximately 600 5aint Paul home buyers each year. (PED) h. Initiate discussion with private mortgage lenders, the real estate community, communiry development corporations and neighborhoods to provide new housing in all price ranges to meet market demands - consistent with neighborhoad development objectives. 4 ��O-5a,7 Prior Act ion 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehah Financing Objectives Supplement the private lending and construction industries to improve existing city housing stock. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obiectives 5, 6, and 9) Enhance the qualities and features that distinguish Saint Paul's neighborhoods and make them desirable places to live. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objedives 1, 6, and 9) Public Purpose and City Ro1e The age of Saint Paul's housing stock requires considera6le rehabilitation and upgrading on a continuous basis. For a variety of reasons including risk, technical assistance required, smafl size of loans, and inadequate home owner incomes, private lenders have traditionally avoided making many home rehabrlitation loans. Therefore, the City has established a substantial public role in helping to meet this need. The City wrll maintain this role as available resources allow and support efforts to increase private sector lending in this area. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Progrems) a. Continue to provide single family home improvement loan programs to address maintenance and updating needs that would othenvise be deferred. Estimate 280 units addressed per year. (PED) b. Originate purchase/refinance and rehab loans for first-time home buyers and existing home owners for a broad range of incomes. Estimate 40 loans per year. (PED) c. Originate gap financing {oans to enable eligible homeowners to purchase and rehab or refinance and rehab homes where the cost of rehab exceeds the increased market value of the project. Estimate 25 loans per year. (PED) d. Address vacant single-family and duplex structures in need of rehabilitation through the Houses to Homes program and other city or HRA programs. Estimate 50-60 rehabs, 60-80 demolitions, and 20 units of infill new construction each year. (PED) e. Continue to provide rehabilitation loans for child care facilities including single-family homes. (PED) Continue to provide loans, where appropriate, for the rehabilitation of rental structures. Estimate 250 units addressed per year. (PED) g. Through HIO counseling, provide information on rehabilitation programs available through city, state, and private funding sources. (HIO) h. Continue to provide funding to resolve critical rehabilitation issues as necessary to suppiement other programs as part of the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program. (HIO) In coilaboration with private and non-profit partners, explore means for substantial expansion of owner and renter property rehabilitation, targeted for significant impact on investment in Saint Paul neighborhoods. 5 1996-1997 Activities (cont.) j. Implement the City Lead Hazard Reduction Program, under the HUD Lead Based Paint Grant Program, as well as under the Housing Rehabilitation Program; implement the Hazardous Waste Removal Program. (PED, PH, HIO) k. Aggressively market the housing rehab tax incentive benefit established by the "This Old House" program. I. Participate in Home Tour to showcase neighborhoods; support other neighborhood-based home tours. Gl 9�-5�? Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing Objecfives Ensure safe and weil-maintained property for all residents. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objedives 7, 5, and 8 Eliminate behavior that detracts from the community. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 7) Protea city housing stock and property values. (Housing Policy for the 7940s: Objedives 7, 5) Public Purpose and City Role The City's p�imary mechanism for ensuring health and safety for all citizens is to encou�age compliance with established building codes. Experience shows that compliance can be improved through partnerships with neighborhoods and community groups as well as effective ci[ations and housing court actions. Code compliance programs also £ocus efforts on elimination of chronic problem properties and urban blight. Responding to acute complaints while addressing chronic problems will continue to be a major iheme for code compliance. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and P�ograms) a. Define stronger methods to identify problems and resolve them before they become a drain on City resources and the neighborhood. {F, P, PH, NIO} b. tncrease involvement of the Fire DepartmenYs Public Educator to help identify high risk population and develop safety education initiatives for youths in troubled areas. (F) c. Strengthen inter-department communication and work toward a more coordinated effort to deal with the csty's problem propeRies. (F, P, PH, HIO, CAO) d. The FORCE unit will work with District Counciis to enhance public safety. (P) e. Expand communication with block clubs and neighborhood groups to identify problems and educate them in methods to proactively work against pro6lem properties. Organize( coordinate 280 new block clubs. (F, P, PH, HIO) Restructure Certificate of Occupancy fees and initiate complaint reinspection fees to better offset actual cost of inspections so that owners who comply pay the lower fees. (F) g. Evaluate inspection procedures and assignments to assure the best use of personnef to do the job most efficiently and effectively. Implement innovative labor saving procedures to reduce the number of compliance reinspections necessary to enforce tfie minimum property standards codes. (PH, F) h. Continue proactive compliance efforts and increase patrol and surveillance of problem areas to decrease the number of citizen complaints. (P, PH) i. Work to improvelredesign(streamfine the Information Complaint Computer System to provide better information and facilitate inter-departmental communication on an address-based system. (PFf, HC� 7 1996-7997 Activities j. Implement procedures which eliminate the necessity of repeat violation notices on the same properties for the same nuisance violations which occur continuously. (PH) k. Work with Federai and State Representatives to identify and remedy the causes of building abandonment and to reduce the amount of time a buiiding in foreclosure remains vacant. (PH, PED) I. Enhance coordinaYed approach to addressing illegal drug issues in neighborhoods. (P, F, PH) m. implement "Crime Free Multi-Housing Program" which trains owners and managers of multi-unit buildings,`organizes tenants, and evaluates design for crime prevention. (P) n. Continue to support training for housing couR referees to maintain the effectiveness of the housing court system. (CAO) o. Monitor all Saint Paul properties for those who request more than 5 calls for police services within a 30 day period. Case manage those properties to reduce the need for police services and eliminate nuisance causes. (P) p. Implement juveniie offender restorative justice program in at feast two Saint Paul neighborhoods. (P} q. Train law enforcement personnel, neighbors, and community organizations in reporting and removing graffiti. Track graffiti complaints and assist with graffiti removal including 70 summary abaYement actions. (P, PH) r. Conduct 180 premise surveys to implement crime prevention through environmental design. (P) s. Implement a citizen inspector program for Saint Paul neighborhoods. (P, PH? t. Impfement a fee for excessive calls for service for exterior nuisance violations. (PH, CAO) u. Increase market driven housing opportunities by working in collaboration with the private sector, i.e., for sale town homes. 8 9�-5�7 Priority Action 4: Improve Rentai Housing Management Objectives Reduce the num6er of problem rental properties in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 5, 7 and 8) Increase the overall quality of rental housing in Saint Paul. (Housing Po(icy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 5, 7 and 8) Reduce the negative effects of rental housing on neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 7990s: Objectives 5, 7 and 8) Public Purpose and City Raie The public has an interest in well-managed rental property that positively contributes to the stabilization of neighborhoods. Proactive property management training and incentives can be more effective than compliance actions after the problems occur. The City should provide education for both landlords and tenants to foster strong rental properties. 1996-7997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to monitor and support the work of the Interagency Stabilization Group. (HC� b. Improve coordination with tenant and landlord groups to encourage tenant responsibility, appropriate behavior, and high quality rental housing. (F) c. Work with the Community Stabilization Project to provide positive reinforcement of responsible tenants and property owners. (F, PH, & HIO) d. Continue to work with and educate landfords to provide quality housing and effective tenant scteening. Train 300 property owners/managers on screening tenants and enforcing behavior standards in their leases. Provide 500 criminal histories in support of tenant screening. (F, P, NIO) e. Utilize media resources and other citizen contact resources to educate properry owners a�d obtain compliance for simple code requireme�ts such as house numbers, refuse remova! and routine yard maintenance. (PH, HIO, HCT) Continue to encourage owner-occupied 2-4 unit rental properties through owner-occupancy requirements in the Houses to Homes and other mortgage programs. (PED) g. Expand opportunities to provide formal tenant/landlord education. (P, HIO) h. Through the Police DepartmenYs "Crime Free Multi-Housing Program" train rental property owners and managers and organize 50 block clubs in multi-unit buildings. (P) i. Work with housing management associations such as the St. Paul Association of Responsibie Landlords, Minnesota Mu1ti-Housing, and East Metro Managers Association to coordinate training and communication. (HIO, P} 1996-1997 Activities (cont.) j. Support legislative reauthorization and implementation of the Homestead tax rate for wetl-managed small rental properties through the Rental Tax Equity Program. (PED, HiO, PH) k. Review applicanYs housing management exper+ence and consider instituting training requirements for the receipt of City/HRA rental housing financing. (PED) I. Educate 400 tenants on their responsibilities and motivate them to take an active role in keeping their home crime free. (P) m. Distribute�crime prevention information including block club manuals, persona! safety information, business safety seminars, home security. (P) n. Work with owners to implement improvements recommended by crime prevention environmental design surveys. (P) o. Provide one on one counseling in effective property management and continue formai education classes through community adult education and classes in the high schools. (HIO) 10 96 5�1 Priority Action 5: Address Specia/ Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Population while Supporting Neighborhood Quality Objectives Provide housing which meets the needs of individuals with special requirements, eg. the elderly, handicapped and larger renter households. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 12, 14, and 15; Consolidated Plan Submission) Provide the homeless with temporary shelter and services to enable them to acquire permaner.t housing. (Housing Policy for the 7990s: Objedive 12; Consolidated Plan SubmissioN Promote and support self-sufficiency as far as reasonably possible where special needs exist. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obiective 12) Provide sufficient housing for low-income households while avoiding over-concentration of such housing in neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obj. 15; Consolidated Plan SubmissioN Pub/ic Purpose and City Role Suitable and affordable housing is a critical ingredient for some populations to achieve self-sufficiency and thereby reduce overall poverty. The City wo�ks with private, non profit and other public entities and the special populations to achieve a "continuum of care" approach including emergency, transitianal and permanent housi�g and appropriate support services for these special populations including the elderly, handicapped and homeless as well as large family households, and low income wage earners. These efforts should be part of a broad range of community development actions induding the reduction of overcrowding and over concentration of rental housing. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and P�ograms) a. Work with Ramsey County to provide additionai housing services to meet the needs of special populations. (HIO) b. Continue to provide effective response to homeless and emergency housing needs through the following programs: Relocation Assistance, Emergency Housing Requests, Utility Shutoffs, Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant. (HIO) c. Continue to preserve and maintain existing publicly-owned low income housing. (PHA) d. Continue to emphasize conversion of smaller units and rehabilitation as a means to create larger units for families where appropriate. (PHA, PED) e. Continue inter-agency and metro-wide coiiaboration to meet homeless and emergency needs. (i-i10, PED, HCf) Continue to implement measures to reduce concentrations of low-income housing when appropriate. (PED, PHA) g. Continue to give priority to proposals for rehabilitation of existing units over new development. (PED, PHA) 11 g�-5a� Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regional Basis Ohjectives Improve economic opportunity for /ower income househo/ds by providing housing in proximity to expanding job opportunities. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 2 and 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-1171) Achieve b�oader sharing of responsibility for affordable housing among communities in the region. (Housing Policy for the t 490s: Objectives 2 and 75; Minnesota Livabfe Communities Act: City Counci( Resolutions 95-132, 95-1771) Decrease, over time, the concentration of poverty found in inner-city neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-1777) Pubiic Purpose and City Role The polarized regional housing market encourages disinvestment in inner city neighborhoods and isolates lower income households away from major areas of job growth. This polarization not only creates inadequate living environments for many people but also causes high and inequitably-distributed pub�ic costs. Government can influence this development pattern through incentives and regulations that determine the location of lower cost housing opportunities. The City should: support legislation which encourages development of low income housing in suburban areas; support regional efforts to address low income housing needs; and support Saint Paul suburban e£forts to provide affordable housing. 1996-7997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Support Saint Paul suburban low income housing development through the Minnesota Livable Communities Act and other activities. (PED, PHA) 6. Support additional legislative efforts to improve the distribution of low income housing opportunities throughout the region. (PED) c. Affirmatively further fair housing goals. (PHA, PED, HIO) d. Continue to work with Anoka, 4-lennepin, Dakota and Ramsey Counties on the Available Housing Data Project to increase information on rental opportunities on a metro-wide basis. (HIO) e. In regional efforts to expand housing opportunities, continue to address the importance of transportation and access to socia! services and jobs. (PED) Continue to support Metro HRA's "HomeChoice" housing mobility program, which heips lower income families receiving Section 8 rent assistance move out of inner-city high poverty census tracts to lower poverty areas in the region. (PHA) g. Increase market driven housing opportunities by working in collaboration with the private sector, i.e., for sale town homes. 13 Priority Action 7: /mprove Information and Communication Objectives Provide citizens with easy access to housing programs and services. (Nousing Policy for the 1990s: Ob%ective 3) Fffectively use city resources to address housing issues. Public Parpose and Cify Role Saint Pau! residenrs have experienced dif{iculty in obtarning information about available housing opportunities. Some programs and compliance requirements have application processes that are complex and not easily accessible. Program effectiveness will be improved if existing and potential Saint Paul residents are well informed and have an easily identifiable access poinY for information and applications. Housing resources wil! be used most effectively when city departments coordinate activities and provide timely and accurate communication about housing compliance and programmatic issues. 1996-1997 Activifies (see Appendices for Partnersf�ips and Programs) a. Work collaboratively with neighborhood-based crime prevention and block ciub organizing activities; continue support for neighborhood crime preventiort. b. Continue implementation of the Housing Information Office Outreach Plan. (HIO) c. To increase accessibility to housing services, provide Housing Information Office services on-site at Famiiy Centers and continue to provide on-site services at scfiools. (HIO) d. Continue Housing Coordination Team work as a means To efficiently coordinate city housing services, to improve communication with the C+ty Council, and to collaborate with non-city agencies. (HCT, PED) e. Continue to explore opportunities to simplify access and applications for hous+ng services. (PED, NIO) f. Continue to identify new steps to ensure broad awareness of housing services and resources available to Saint Paui residents through developmenY of a housing communication plan. (HIO, PED) g. Continue to provide facts and analysis as required for accurate characterization of housing needs and supply. (PED) h. Attend neighborhood housing {airs. (HIO, PED) i. Explore ways to update the 1988 Housing Conditions Survey with available staff resources. (PED) 14 . q � Priority Action 8: Support Strategic Neighborhood Improvement Objectives Use resources available for neighborhood improvement effectively. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 2, 6, 9, 10, and 11) Ensure neighborhood-level and broad public commitment to improvement decisions. Encourage citizen involvement in decision making. Public Purpose and City Role One key thrust of Saint Paul's housing policy is to ensure that each neighborhood fares well in the housing market for the range of househo�ds to which it is most suited. Adequate maintenance and quality in the built environment is necessary in any neighborhood for this obiective to be reached. City government pfays a key role in 7) technical assistance and financing for rehabilitation work that the private market does not fulfy support; 2) public improvements; and 3) planning and integration of neighborhood-based and city-wide inierests and objectives. 1996-1997 Acfivifies (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to improve neighborhoods by working closely with neighborhood groups and businesses, parCicularly those that are effected by problem properties. (PED, E, PH, P) b. Support efforts of STAR program participants to coordinate revitalization efforts. (PED) c. Update the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990's in response to the 7995 amendments to the Metropofitan Land Planning Act, the Community Development Agenda and recent concerns regarding housing policy. (PED) d. Continue to use neighborhood planning and cooperative work with neighborhood organizations effectively to promote reinvestment and community health. (PED) e. Continue to work with business groups, community development corporations, district councils and other neighborhood associations to implement neighborhood and city-wide strategies for improvement resulting from the Community Development Agenda. (PED) f. Support fiousing soiutions that are part of integrated community improvement in major targeted planning study areas such as the Riverfront and Pha�en Corridor. (PED) g. Continue to support the housing revitalization efforts of neighborhood-based organizations through the Capitai fmprovement Budgets when such efforts meet the criteria established in the Capital Allocation Policy. (PED) h. Encourage and support implementation of housing strategies identified through Smalf Area Plans including: (PED) Railroad Island: encourage homeownership; suppoR rehab efforts; create buffer zone Phalen Village: encourage redevelopment of Lakewood and Maywood Apartments Brewery'lftan-View: encourage redevelopment of Familystyle homes and Koch/Mobil site Thomas-Dale: support local efforts for a block-by-block renewal campaign 15 1996-1997 Activities {cont.) East Consolidated: support local efforts for a block-by-block renewa! campaign Lower Dayton's Bluff; support URAP efforts for rehab and new construction i. Review the proposed Community Development Agenda. After review, a Community Development Agenda may be adopted by the Council and the Mayor. j. Revise the City Plan housing policy to provide a stronger framework for neighborhood and city housing decisiorts respottsive to current trends and opportunities. 16 . �o 94-95 Accomplrshments The following table quickly summarizes the efforts of several housing programs since 1991. Specific accomplishments for 19941995 follow, organized according to priority action as they appeared in the 19947995 HousingAction Program. Program 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Total Ownersbip Mortgage loans (MpIs/SP First Time 85 183 78 160 266 772 Home Buyers, Mid. Inc., and Take Credit � Houses to Homesi Tofal ° 2�4: 4Q7 432 _ ` 382' - 405 183(S° , . Rehabbed °:.�SO: 32 35 `- :; ° `68 . ` - 5:57 . _ 23Z : Qemalished .. 43 s 64 . 75 ° - . . : : &3 - 96 - ` . .341 - Reoccupied 121 311_ 322 236 236 122a Infill NeMr Const :_, n/a n/a n%a 21 #B '�7: PHA HOME Program (families) 13 15 30 34 g2 BHA HOMEWARD Program �5 sifes �5 sRes Mortgage Foreclosure Preven5on 524 761 766 660 592 3303 (households) RehabiGfation OwnervOccupied units 377 275 278 280 274 1444 Renta(_itnits : 116. . 78._ 'IQ2 . 203 �f5& ' 645. Enforcement Hnusinj.inspeetiQ�s: _ -� . _. 'Gert:ofCyccUpancy. 7 ?�945 7U89- : 8,�29 S,Ct39 - 37;U37 `Respanses to compTainfs ., . 2Q,699 ,.. '16,035 13,7Q3 96,081 '75,696 81:,Z14- 7otal inspections 43,5t7 48,98Q 33;769 - �f7,'I i2 A6,32� �9+t 698; Educational Program attendance 83,359 83,799 80,034 80,108 80,620 327,300 Block �lubs 240. _-- �33 - 253_ 2�6 23� '1;423: Lead iesting of children <6 years oId 3,205 3,114 3,504 3,309 '1642' 13,132 Rerifat Assiste�cs ` PHA Sect. 8 certificateslvouchers 86 added 62 added 100 added 70 added 50 added 3,055 _ _ ,_: , . , _ , _ PH7�_Scatkereci Site acquisitian -. 15 addeti- ..25_added i addeci 0�.- - . fF 447 HIO Housing Counseling Contacts 22,568 26,119 2'1,617 23,920 19,134 113,358 _ _ ' <Einergency:Shetter.Grants sS166;DE70 $1G�,DOfI �}67�3013 _:$25�00�;-=_ $1U33f1Ot1:: Rental Tax Equity Pilot Program n/a n/a n/a 433 374 807 I Due to changes in medical assistance/managed care reimbursement strategies, population screened has become more select. z See HOMEWARD above. 17 � � � '� �� i :, , , �, � � �, , � � , � „ � � � , + , ,, , �' �, , � . n . , ,. � � i �� , �,, �� ,' ,� �� ,� � � �� , � � � . . ,� , �. — '- , ,� �� ^ ' i " , ,`" , 'r . � i � , ,. , ,� . . , �� ' �� , , , . , , ,.. �, I i , � � , . � � � � � ,� . ',, � � , ,�� , , , , _ '„ � . � . � , „�, . . � ,. '.� � �� ,� -�. � � � . �, , � , ,_� ', , �� ,�� 1. Codtrnue �ome ownersixp incenSves. � �„ � " : : „ � � � � � � ,, , �' �� ■ PED„fvtortgage�loan,programs�providedfireanctng,CO',16Q.individ�alsa�d��'families i��r 1994aiir1266in�� 7 995 through�,the MiRn'eapofrs�Sai`nt Paµ�l �first T�me �Home Bujrers, the fvtiddle'�Income tfou'smg �F��iH, � and the Take ,Credit! programs. ■$20Q,000 was aflocafed to the'Houses to Homes prog�am �o f�nd conuersion of rentaf single'famiiy ' and�da t'� � � wner � �� p ex units to'o -occupied unifs. i i Twenty one; single famify umts'were built as mf��t canstructron'th�ough PED s Houses to Homes ProgFam +n 19�94, 9Fxteen additi'onal units�were built i� 1995�:� � „;'; ,' � ■ Phase If of fhe Mfddle Fncome Housmg Fund was taunchzd'with the sal'e of $30,milltion in bonds in �� E�995. � ,This��program �;v%II providg'�addit'i�onat funding,for households'with annuaf� i�ncomes,up to � � � ' $89,250; „ ' ■ 44,'low mcpme fam[Ites, purchased horraes,thcough fhe Public Housing Agency's.(PHPI) HOME progra'ms, m,oving��ouY�of publ`ic�;housingoi,Sectron�'8�'rent-assisted,apart�hents �°�t�3ANEa1so`';proXided"'' � hor,�4e owners�ip co4r�seling to� 180 famidies duYtng �he rivo y,ears ' � Ano�her 35 rent to-own' ,oppottunit�es, m newty re�rab�t�tated 'scattered site homes,' were rreated for ' pu6'lic housing residents through�,the PHA`�s HOMEVI!rV� prograsn. .At; end"oE 1995 e�rg�ble ,� � �farrii'lies wece''moving into the list of the�hoines, wli��ch tE��y'�uvifl be pu�chaseng�ouer tlie rie�fiive �� ; , � yea�s „ , '■ Through the Mortgage Foreclosuee Prevention Program, cfie H',ousmg bformatwn Offace hefped horne �� owners whb�a�re in dar�'ger of �osi�ng the�r'tiorrxes 4C�rbi�gh foreciosur� in� i99� �n�l 1995, �i-tMO� " � assisfed 525 Sa�nt Paut�,hor�e o�aners and' prouided ��199,983 i� Voans �o',�emstate� mostgages , � Ani�eher 4�i3,��homeowners ree�'��red fQrec(�osure coun5eling u��er t[ne H�ID assFgnment �'Yograms oe�,,, basic counseling. , ' � , ■.1860'indFViduals rece�ved Homebuying(Financing I�forrnation thraugh thz Hausing Informae�on Offiee, f ed ' g ' o which 316'receiv �nterrstve,caunseli�i " . , �" . � � ort . � : „' � � 2 C' finue owner and,r�ntaf refrab fina►lcetrg •' r „ , ,� , , � 494, owner-occ ied'"hnits and'359 rental,units were rehab6ed thcou h`PED ro �ams. �� P � � � � � � � � �� , �� S � �� P g � � ,. �. , , ■ The�� Houses Yo Homes �pr�ram tr,eated a,to[al of 787 vacant housing units ir� 199� and 1995 '' , � ; �. , r � �.��i; � � � i,��,� , � �'� � Fve��laans toY'��ing �ve� $27,00l�,were prot��ded to c��ld ��ee €a'a)afa�s �,'C94g4 A� addHt�o,nat � � � ,: � �10;Oa0 was loaned to�'a� smgle �tariFoty in 7^995 �� a, � ■ Wor�c b n,on the Haus�n fnfoFinat�on'OfEice's 19i96 Outreaeh:Plarr -wh�ch �is ao effoct to s�m li '' � ' �� access to 5di��t Palll�'� oUs�n � r�" a[115 ��. ', � ;�„",�'� �;;�i i ,, �,_ i r+„� ;,� -.i i, ; , ,; ��„ R h 8'P °� P fY ■ The.Hous�ng 4n i [ias been identrfi�'as the centcai po�nt for reslderrts to access, ,�' ,: tnfor at'on Office �� informahbn.regardi�g Sa�n# Pau�N's hous�m�;pragrams.�, F�e HIQ office�+ntas rderitr�fred�as th��r�a�n, �� ,�� idenu G b � �� >�i � � cor,��act poiht''in tha,1;995 Sa�m�t'Pa�l Re�' tr� �' ��` ��.�� , � � ,,,. 18 ' , � �� , ° „ � ` �� , � � ff ', • � i � �� y � � � ��ti ry ' � r i + ' � � ��, �� , � � � i y�� . , i i � K tr �� I i n 1 ,, i �� r' i d ', I ' .� �, � +f✓ k 1�� i ��,i �lii � I, i �i �I F�ua�. � i 19d �� I i i i �' ip4f ��.! �rti��lf ii,� I ti��la Plr� I, i 4 � � iK�y;�r �i ��'��{ I. 1�i �� i��.ii.l � �1,. i i u �P,. . Ir. _ „I �:�'f .,� �... ab.0 h � ilV�l. J � �tn ri,e d'.rl�l i�..,.�i.11�ll� +�I, _ v�..'I".�°. ., 9�l5�7 ■ The Housing Division began efforts to formulate a consolidated loan application whereby reside�ts couid apply for multiple programs through a single application. This effort wiil continue into '96-'97. ■ The Housing Information Office responded to 182 requests for information on home improvement loans and deferred grants through the City, State and private sector. ■ The PHA substantialiy rehabilitated 17 of the 35 homes purchased in the HOMEWARD program at a cost of over $25,000, with some help from City CDBG funds. Twenty of the HOMEWARD homes had been vacant due to mortgage foreclosures; sixteen of those were vacant "HUD homes." Within five years these homes will be owner-occupied. ■ PED's Housing Division began a realtor outreach program to encourage use of purchaselrehab loans. 3. Provide eftective enforcement to reduce the negative conditions ot rentai housing. * All city agencies engaged in housing and regulatory activities including Pubiic Health, Fire, Police and the City Attorney's office coordinated inter-departmental responses to problem properties through the Mayor's Informational Exchange Group. This group has worked with District Counciis, neighborhood groups and Tenant/Landlord organizations to identify and resolve local problem properties. ■ Re{ief for well-managed properties was provided through the Rentai Tax Equity Program for one and two unit non-homesteaded residential buildings. HIO administered the pilot project whose purpose was to stabilize costs for conscientious landlords. The Program was intended to offer an incentive to landlords to improve their tenant-occupied property. 374 rental properties received the tax credit; total amount spent on repairs -$332,5�0. ■ Owners of wel!-managed multi-unit buildings wi(I be granted some relief through proposed revisions to the Legislative Fee structure for Certificates of Occupancy. Under the revisions, owners would receive a 25% discount on the C of O fee if the property owner assures compliance prior to the first renewal inspection. Fees were further revised to include a$50 reinspection fee for compfaints (after the first reinspection), and there is a 50% reinspedion fee assessed after the first reinspection. ■ The City Attorney's office in conjunccion with the Fire Department and Public Health provided a seminar to housing court referees about housing court issues. ■ Housing court referees, the Ciry Attorney's office and the Fire Department coordinated efforts focussed on increasing effectiveness of tag writing and methods of gaining compliance. ■ Housing court referees indicated some interest in the use of mandatory education for landlords/land owners convicted of housing violations and in providing information packets on city housing programs to those appearing in housing court. Additional work would be needed to implement either idea. ■ FORCE, a community policing effort, continued to address problem properties in neighborhoods. FORCE addressed over 2000 problem property complaints in 1994 and 1995. FORCE provides crime prevention information, community organizing, housing inspections, and law enforcement as toois to address neighborhood concerns. 19 ,. � , , � „� � � � �� . „ , � � � � � � �., �. ` , ,I � �, . ' , � _ �� ' , ., � � ' � � � ■ " '278 b�lock�� cl'nbs were addeck d � � � totallisit � Ft�� act4ve 6'toek c6ubs� tHro `�hout SainE P�iitJ �� , ' , � � ac'rng�}99,�.� g,, ug �� An,additi�oi,iaf23;0'blockcl�t�ibs�werzforinedPn1995� � �� , , �h �� , � �'� ��, ■ Owners with`,;ecoruomic limitations concinue to be referretl to PEO ,for loan and grant mfo�matwn to � he ' �� ., � � ��, � . , . Ip them �hie�e�caie compli�nce � � '�'' � � � , �. �, �': � � �„ �� , , ' "�� , ` �� v � � i " � ■ Public Healkh, met �vith the SainY��Paui �Assoaat�on of Respqi�si�lz Landt'prds and'�present�, tenant ,�� . �� r respor�stb�lit,ies as outli�ed in t6e�City� Or�nance. "�'� �� , , � � � • � i � � ��r -r�� - � � � �� . � . „ � „ � � ., ,, � � Housmg inspectors we're encouraged and instructed to �te irrzsponstblg tenants'wF�n �te�ant � � �beHavior i ' obKiousl � �ausid �� the housin � � rohf�'' : � �� ,� ' �! !�,� � � s „ � m ', Y BP �� , � �; � , �, � , .� , � �� , � , � ,,,,, '� �� , � � � �„", '■ TEi,e Fire Qepartmeni'expanded�Xhe ese�of�Public Eclucatton to��target�high nsk populatio�us'i,n multi- ��P �� e' � nd ed � ' m these orn leic�s"throu fi y ,��„ ,s' � � 1 nile o uV� ti�oq� ��c g:five safet�v';fa�rs �� . , unrt compi xes a ucate �he , uve p p � p A . . �■ thePFirz Depa�t�ent ovith coord"ihation��as�ista�ce fti'oRn the I-Gousjng lnfor�nation�0€£ce encieaseck ',,� �, ' mvol�ementi"of soci�t'�serv�ce agenc�es �n r�sofuing peopFe,proHteins��n`�prq��ert�e`s' Adult a�d �Ghi�d � Protectio� Workers, th"e Comm'unEty SCabi,l�rateo� Pr�oject, and��ihe,Tenanxs Cf�niotw��w�re�a,ctimueLy' '�' � , � � � , , �vo4�ed' �n pqovkLng�a`ss�stanc'e�10 een�t��`. ' � , , �. � �;�, �',� `;,', , , , , ,' � , � � � l, i'�r i�� i' �� t i�� I��,��ii i 9 x ; ■ The"F�re Departr�ent,'pofice, aitd P.ub(�c,Elealfh w,orked wrtfi t�e� Safe CrkEes Comma�ee tp';or�an�ze � � , .,r � � �. v � �� . , �� i.,� <<, �,� � , ,i r � � and';assist ,�n do�mto�a!n sweeps and aud�ts an� �nit�atrves m neigfibarf�ooas � h ' .�i ,"'" r .' " ,�„ r '��' j i��,u li ir rtl � i i Y i,�t ,`� t m , . �u �i�'� .r ' �� u �i � 41ii�v'� z �� ■ Pukilic FleafEE�"s WacanX�BuddEhgs,Monitaring anc� Demol�tion"Progcam eonfi�u'es Ea successfe�l[y ��. , adc�Y'essthe �issues and probiems,��aesoaate'd �n%rth,va,cant, b�oar�(ec� a�'�,aUandon�.'.psop,etti�s � fn � �as been�dra � " g � aof tvvo� ea $50a, � r , � ai � , ,, � � ; ,r � 199 Caunctf.�ctes� nated atlditrona4 £undtn",' af 000 fo,"be used Epr�YEte'dem�l�ion of �� "' , mercial �nd indus'. af va�nt bu�fdmgs Ztie teRgtfi og rir�te a br�t[cFrqg sSts� vaic�t a�c�,boardect ' � � h, s�raCical(y��redueed tio an averag �'�y , inpa�eti �ntfi a f�ve,year ave�"age�en 1990 � � � � , ., �; �� ,;� ; �� . � � � �� , ■ fn��'�994, the Mayor ar�d the CEty, Councit ��pprovec��Case'Manageme�t of pFobleti� proper�jes as a.'' proadwe,app"roacFi m �addressing� propertres gener�ti,,ng rnutfQp,�e�as�d repeaY'cotnpBai�ts Plumerous�,, ' i i r I,• i r i,4' il r i, �i u i i I � 7oe�rg st�n�dirig Pro'blems, have �'zn,�recY�� amd it�z��nnber c�f p'�o6�eri��pGOpert�e��, being+.rgcfuced�,, - ��o- . � , r , „ a � ,u , �, � ; �� , ,� - �firau�h tfie ,e£farts of ttns pKOg'cam and� the" �rnpro�ked coord�na�iop �nn�fy; othe� agenc[es ar�d� resburces ( ��,. r � , � , ,' , � �� ,� ii � � i ,,� � i � r i„ lil I� �, �� ■ En�orcemet� �'�T 1995 p ' � � ncforsed fforts�Yo�St, p,'up e�or�cement qn propelti� �lvhtc � ha' � � � � �,�� g ul"atelm,�a��tn � , � �,.� , i ,r' � , ;, Kior n v,i P{' � orf is provrng success� g, � the Cm ola�ons 7hi's eff ' �' ' !, We re,ceroed p otrces af �msan e� . ^ ;. , i ' ore repeat abatements , i 1 � , � � � ` `°� r Th�� Pubttc �hd�ealib and, Pal�ce D�par�nen,t4„�p,�Ei�ued �t �� mptoVe coordinaltro� ofi�enfo,rceri�znY ; �� actitnC�es on, praper�Ees'�tErae ar��detenorated� u�sant,taiy or unsaf� and c+��r�re cr�'}ha�� "efia'�reori�s" o�� I ,,� ,,: i i � r �.i ^ � i � � ev�den�, These progra�ms also reoordinat�� enforcerner�� ctivrt{es, �vurt�i tt�e�� {�a�'o'c�s 5afe Crty Fn�fiamre'�, _ , ,,� �. ,. � �ai ,'a ��"o �'�,i � IW� .� i �� u� i 1 1V_'� �f � � .. I �n �f ; I � i i �u� i�� In September, i995 the.' PH?� requested Hl1D`a�approuaf'ta afdapt the Gty Cod� �es' �fire's,afety., bud�d'�cig , � and, f�ea�lth starrdards, as the mspecCion stapd��d tor;tfie� S�ect�o� � ren� Subsidy pro�;arui �epla�rng�tfie • � �,f10U5f�Y'1 Ud{4 �,- ��S�dO� � Cj"� "OUS�, ' i i I � i y il r� 5 'q . i i ..i i� ��., I i i �,r ,'',',— ' �1fl� g q, LY,. , aP' s'�P�v�, Y usoec� ' Ttie ,PHA, a�sp �€rP°s� e�,imE�atrng ��s��separaEe �� , � � ' � � I I � � I i i iif. I i � , inspecc�a�s q# Se�t6on 8-subsidtzed umts�i�i� melp f�mdy��ap�art�ie��tbutddings� �eEyrmg �nste,ad'on'�he�� , �� , � � u � �, � � � � City's Cert�ficaL�e pf Oecupancy�,i�nspect�o�i, syste�,i ,,,�;((ies� actjpns fa'rgdu�ce overTappe�g��n�speetPOns', � ' ancl',separate"5t�ndar¢s,'respoirdedtdSecomrnenctadq i i pcopercy owners''and '�YE'I7N1LTix�3$SOCf3f10fSS�d(Id i C1�,5C3� {��f�C SCd��Cj2VQ�Op2,C��12 p,fiUQO5d�i1[i i ,',� "— v,�� .i i p �. I ryr �, �I LI� ;i� � i ;u. a �� ; i , n, � ,� r : i J � I d i i � .� � i ��i �! i�;i� i , i� _ 2'Q - _ l "��!' i u ' u .; �, � i itl�, i vi o, . B r � ri „� _ nA r,�� 'i i '.'^r n.� � ° ' h„ '+ I l r i . u 1� I F�rk� 1 '.A!1 J� 1� `� x.tl ; � fi u� 'i_ � I ,! I � � � � � I .�.�� 7 M Ir;,.� I11 � liie I ,. t'.. J I ) I � �. . Ic• I i„ .'�'n .i . a d � ... ,e� � , d r ! �.,. ,�w u l�y h n i;'. i u' ,. .....� � , . .,��,., ..0 ,..... „ �: d , ,.�. , .��ueaa . ,i'✓� I:v�a,.0 i.lh� .�a�.d..� � w Id�i... ..�i.� i�e� . rrv;@�., i , i,iu.�� i..::.�r.. t i�" h ':j I .��,' .. .� �N„„, ni d,n,.{w 9�•5�� collaboration with staff from the Fire Department and the Public Health/Code Enforcement program. HUD approval was pending at the end of 1995. ■ In 1995, the City Council passed an ordinance allowing the police to bill responsible persons for costs of providing potice services in response to nuisance events when the property has had more than 5 such events in a 30 day period. ■ The Police improved direct communication with Safe Cities staff to respond quickly and appropriately to problems identified in Safe Cities audits. ■ The FORCE Housing Code Enforcement Officer completed 650 cases in 1994 and 1995. ■ Crime prevention officers completed 475 premise surveys of both residential and commercial property to make recommendations in improving the structure and landscape according to Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles. 4. /mprove rental housi�g management. ■ HIO administered the Saint Paul Rental Tax Equity pilot project. (See above) ■ TenanULandlord education programs continued to be taught by the Fire Dept and the Housing Information Office through the Saint Paul Community Education program and to community and neighborhood groups. HIO provided information on the responsibilities as well as rights of both tenants and landlords to 4030 individuals in 1994 and 1995. ■ The Police Department and FORCE unit assisted many landlords in obtaining information for tenant screening and improving their screening processes. Pubiic Health, as we{I, encouraged property owners to utilize good screening techniques in selecting their tenants. ■ The Police DepartmenYs FORCE unit began a new program entitied the Minnesota Crime Free Multi- Housing Program to address crime in apartment complexes through management training, tenant training and involvement, and security assessments. The copyrighted program has proven successful in 29 states. Through the Minnesota Crime-Free Mufti-Housing Program, the Police Department encouraged property managers to assess security measures such as locks, lights, windows and shrubbery and make improvements where necessary to create a safer living environment. ■ The Fire Department conti�ues to enforce security requirements in muiti-unit buildings and covers security as well as fire safety in their education effort. ■ Efforts to inventory existing opportunities for rental housing management training and recommendations for improvements to available training opportunities were turned over to the Interagency Stabilization Group, whose membership includes staff members of PED, the Minneapolis Community Development Agency, the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and the Family Housing Fund. Ann Norton is acting as the consultant to Yhis group which has produced some recommendations regarding the improvement of rental management training. ■ ln addition to financial information, rental property owners are �ow required to submit a Propecty Management Plan when appiying for Rental Rehab Loans. The plan is used to assess the owner's experience in managing rental property and is given equal weight along with the financial statement 21 ,� � `, � i i i II I lii I' I I I II II II I I,I I I I i � , , ��, , �� , i � . u ' � n,' , ,, ., ,., , i '' � � � �, , � .',,. , . r I � , � A , � � t��;uinderwriting decisroqs f�u addiYion, Property t�lanagerngnf'M1a�ua�si eontai��g' infarrn�t6p� on `' bbCh��prcrperEg��'ma�u�tenancz zrsd� d'eaYing �ith Yenant�"�is gru�n to a8 �o�an',;rec�p�e�ts_ � � ''" �, „� ^ �'. � � �� ., � `�'„ ,�. „ ,. , , � „ � . . .. � � , �.�. ' 5 Support t/re %w densify eh�racter of ne� �gfi.SorN'ood� �� ' � , � �' � ��, �� °� , , i ,.r i �, ' � � � , � , �� No�'�1ew rer�ta�l rnulU fa�ily ea�ts'� construc[ed �� 79�94�or'�-,n99�� ';�� µ�� i., ■ The Pubf�c H'pusing Age�cy assisYec! in converting th�ee��forrn,er, �tlupkexe's Ya scngteAfamtty hom� � thro�ugh �ts F#'OME1A/ARD acqms'itron(rehzbii�taUon/li,o'meow�vershrp pragram , � , �,, � r ��, �� , � � i ;, i �� r�'� , ai !, � , ^ � � � ' � �� t6e"Pubtrc H�ousing PW emp,fras�Yed �on,version�� srn�tler unrts Ea' kfeee2 d��7�nd,fo�� [aFge unrks �; �� , � thrq�igN co�rv`�rs�on of`three dupl�xes to a'rjgtZ�famr6'y t��mes tl�iro�ng�h� �ts'��FiOtv�f\N'' ��ap ', "� � � aa�ues�t�on/Fehab�lrta�r�on/horneo�inersh�p pr � m ,�'` ,� � ' , : � r,' � s Thro'trgh the Housesto Hornes prpgram '28 vacant muFN fa�ily structures were convected �to 24 � , Y ` P ' ��' :, , p s�tn"I99� andi74J15 " ' ' �� singi�fa�d tiome� amd 4 owner-occu red du Neze , , , � i i„ i.�,, ,�ii ��: k t 7 i i l l i� � �I�Y�li �� i �.l u� .�, ��iij� �I � i� �',�� li �� y '� � ,� � a M� ° I I � I' I H� � � ' I PEa,S Ramsey H41� Ren¢vation �}�oj�ct�wci'l.conveR'�9 eff�cien�y a�� oe{�-becJroo�n e�nrt� Iqca'ted tr� ;�, ,il I i � � i I V'I�I I 9111 � d�i il ' , �irl' i I�a �,rili 4' �s�� t�uildmgs��pn Mars�a�ll and D ftvenye��,tp��56�tiwo-��d��o'��ru un�ss '�€Fpis Ptol�cti wt�l i cer�Un�e� �!"„� ilillt0,.��9� i � i � i l � 41�i1' r �� i� I�I i ili � . i 1 �� I,' �� '� '',�� I � r.�� i�� i I. �i 1 n .. � i i ii ,', ,� r I i r � i � � � �� .0 � i� i� �� , r i i � i ��r I „ i �,- � � � , ,ii�)n l � �� '� il !.i i i i a °��. i ep rr a � ,,;';�' ,., d' 5 S QQId� lfCe(f WI'�11[l ��d#R�' Pd��S fDOp�� tOA +� ��'I i i I � i � i � �� i i I i � r t i i �� i �� ii �r i i n� � �� v � I i i i 6 Add gs P s at � ,i I o r' � � .I � I � , i .'� I I� � aild��l f� i i i �� i �� i ■ Th 0� � F��u ��! i i I r i {( �' � I � i �� i f i i i I � i � I � � i ' PHA eont��rtued� its„efEotts to rnamtam exis�mg {ow i�co�n�ihousing tE,�rougkt rr�a��t renowapon of � i I I Ilo i I i i i "i ri'� i i 4 i ,".i Mt., Airy Flor�ies The� �e4�aki pro�ed wiitf,cost,abpNY�S5 6 mtl��on�(�aIN�Q�D�'uc�ds��an� reqc�ve��^, � 'i'1 i i I i 1�i ii , i i¢, i i i , � _ fOt}G�i;Y@df$ TO� �Ofllpl�Y2�..�', � t i i ,i� 4. V i i i . i i� � ' ii `� � i I � .� . ��. � ��,.'� . „ ,,� �, ��-, � . .,,� i ' �i i ��.� i i� ��' i z i l i,��, i �. ' �� '� �� - I nl eP, i��ll u � i' i i 1 ) i" i �� i ' ' � ■ Thc'$3 9 millian dolia{r.�renovatidn of the Pt�Pi"s Ra�%'bIL��H,t R�e Q22(7'v�i�its�, vuas� complqYeeti'en�,1995��y ', „ i �:�* � � i i I �� li I I,„ I I � � v, i i ; I I I i I �� P� 1 I i �. ,., .' ' i�� i �� I � ��y� I ii tl' .'i i i l .' iJ IP ," � � � f � ■ EEDrs Ramse� t-QuEt Ren,pvaY�orr Pro�ect will,�`ca�ru�rt 9q e,fExci�en�y an�`ori�be�dyoom un�ts,!"o�atiedn�i �,;, F� „�� . �� , � � � � i � � six bmldings,bn Marshail and Dayton A�eri'ue,�ta 56 tw[o-6ed�oom �unrt5 ; This, prq}ect w�Il,��ouYtmuz - � � IF1't0,�1996 .j.� �r iii�� in a� ta L m`�� '�',�vll � ii' ��'��..u��!� n i � i i :�; i I� ��' � i� i � r i �i d i,� i 1 i ii li r � ,,, i , � � i�il( �li II �� ri '.,ti� �" I� i��n��i �li � i, I r. , �, .� ti i li� � �i. li II r � il,� �� '�, C4t�,.�,enc�es�'�co��nued Xo c4lt�alwrate i�r�an effoRt'to respo�se Ya �iomele�s�, and, ��, � . I i. I i I I „��I i� I ill,ii�V iI�S� i �I ai I_ �p'1�11 I� il „ i n eme en ktitusin ne�ds thra the' follbwm r ma� I� �Y� � �h g P ��s �ged ,t6e �Hons�ng InforM�tYOn� , � ; �( I h !�'I ° � i � � � �� I � i,�� i I� I� Iv i � u I ii �. u „ ii ( c �� flfflG2 i ; ' ' ' �4 �� i � ,� V ' ' � ,� ' � ` �� i � �, � i i "i � � q n � ' ' , �.' ' 1. i .' � I q i . v i ,.i � i ' i' I h I i i� � il� I �, � yr {. i I� i i � � I „„ , Re,f,,acatiop,Assistance , Szrv�ces� a�e �rovode� ta hpusehalds that �h'ave�he�en displxce� because',o� coc�z' � ' I � � ili {uf� �I� li'I, �li-0Y�d �I!'i1�Yw�d � u � }a p il.�JuVr�la�a '9+..a �LL e.r,,.yu y ,u�, ;�� i,� iCOhC��ffiR3i,l,QT�1 u45S1$t2�Y,1C@Ifl rOC1f111g�1Ol19yfl�',idfi��OfFEIt�C[I�fY��IrMI'C�'Rer-'4�n50CF��5B�C@S'37@��F�O"i'�""d" " i � i i ,. i I, �i i i ri r i � i i , i� i �� i p �� r� i i �� li i ii ii ' i I' �I ��F�� arra�brr�okxippne�ts of�th�s pYOgr�rn w�ic�,ser�ed �t0��i �otrse�[i�fds��Kn �1A�4' ar�d,199b i ,,� i ',� � , I 1� �Ill�i 11 la '�I � u � Illli . r� i�4� v i!i ,� �p,ii � ^ i� i �'I IY r i 1 � I��"i��llfk�� u i I( ��i' "�'d 4�r�^ I �.�( tl�"^�� '�� J� l � �" � l ' i P� � I i i�� I�I Ir',�i � I i .�� i pi i . Emergency Hou�tng Requesis H',omeiess iiiaimdiials�i!a��d fa�ti�,��,es areim,nrteeC�d��to th'e sh��xe�F s�ste� ' II ' I V I i I � V' � y I i � � � �� I i � I, I Q � �� Y� � � I I i i � r � 1 f „ �i � " ua�' . emer em fii��an al �eso�r �; i�oc�a� s oces'�'nd p�errr�n�r�t��t�nusrng w", . Tamce iN oGfiar :, , i, � ,y �II � � III �:,��IJ. ii ,,.' � i I �1 1" i ril i'„9� il � � �,,,, � ., pfOCIlC�2C� ti0',3.�� 1[1(�,IVYi��U$� OflC�=�{3f�T1{�ICS�I� �j��/� �d ��g�Y � i l ,, � I �d I� ' I�� ili ��/�� I i �� , I .� �� , I i�l� � � � I � i I ,ir� � I� .� r rl a i�'i 'i,�l I "� � �I ' , i iy � �' o � C �, I 7 n i l r 1 ,� 5 I I I � � r v r i � j� � I Uti�ity Shutaffs H#O staff ass�st a�dtv�d�ais' in usmg the Rep��q��nd, �D�c1ucE,OrdiEta�tce, 4vprks ��N � ��rl� i'.{[il�i1� 4 yulu �G JII oh t i4� 1��i I F�1�P�and the,�MY�ter Elepa�Uruent�ta^ne�,otiaYe �e-f,�a}�rrr�u�t�plans an��helps'r� ��oca6� zr ec�c�r �� ,�: , , � � � � � � � � � S �,� . �� e �{ �,� k1 ' � i 7 �I I I �u � oill i I �n � I �Illsi o t i I� 1 � ' fur}diqg �sourees taprevle¢�E a sFeutoff"o'G�r�rtstai�z ��t�,cl�fy e�7�haG�seho�� Werei'ass'is�e"��ti�z'i`t93',4 and"; r" � � ;; �, �I i ,�: I, I �� I I �A ��, I ��•�� f l��Fi� �ry � il�� :��d� u� p��i !+- �I ,�'��r� li � I�i i�ilrql(u�ii l i .n 1 � i n � f �� . i I r 22 I, � �. �� I �� I �� A u It ,� 3, �S I� �� I I �� I li ?� i � II I, I.i I� � �-. ir 1 I i '� i� �I�I �� ,h ilSti��il l I � � i� I e i ri �j I ��I�� i � ' � r � �� + I 1' ��.ii��ll�� t�C� �� I�:' "` I� fV t I rlr fl . � � T , li 1 . ��'� ��y,� � r I f� i'i �1�:' i$a � �� lv�`� �� n �°. ��Y�Y�'�R� P � R �G r W � I 4� k'l . ,.. . , „ r .� '�� r v p �,�.!. .il ,�.�t�r � I., , ., ..,��.'„� 9� . ��_...� J I ..�,_1' x ._.,,,L� .il�.�r ��,. ,l I :.d,.,il.lilr,� ,w.. �„�.,.., i..,. I r�:... ....�.d. ,V i��, ,d ,� , � . 9�-5a� 1995. McKinney Homeless Housing Stabilization: HIO staff assisted homeless families and individuals find permanent housing and stabilize their living situation. 100 families and individuals were assisted in 1994 and 1995. Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant: Staffed by HIO, this board monitored the use of emergency shelter in the City of Saint Paul and made recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on issues related to homelessness. In addition, HIO administered $253,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant funds to nineteen programs that provide services to the homeless. ■ Counseling and information on both market rate and subsidized housing programs was provided by the Housing Information Office to 4770 households seeking adequate affordable housing in 1994 and 7995. In addition, market rate lists of rental housing were available and a network with some private properry owners has been developed. Two phones were provided for client use within the office. 7. Meet housing needs on a regional basis. ■ The City of Saint Paul supported the Minnesota Livable Communities Act passed by the State Legislature in 1995. The Act provides incentives for ali metro area communities to meet low income housing goais. The Minnesota Livable Communities Act included funding for the Livable Communities Demonstration Account to encourage communities to think creatively about the needed connections between transportation, access to social services and jobs in regional efforts to expand housing opportunities. ■ In an effort to encourage development of low income housing opportunities in suburban Saint Paul communities, the PHA invited suburban HRAs to coliaborate with them in providing additional low income housing outside of St. Paul. Washington County and the PHA prepared a joint development application to HUD, requesting funds for scattered site public housing rentallhomeownership units to be acquired in Washington County. Unfortunately, Congress rescinded the HUD development funds just before the appiication was to be submitted. ■ Saint Paul has also encouraged the efforts of the Family Housing Fund to fund affordable housing in suburban areas with links to transportation and job opportunities. 8. Improve information and communication. The Information Exchange Group has provided a forum for Council members and District Councils to voice concerns over problem properties. In turn, the Information Exchange Group has made a commitment to keeping them informed on issues raised in the Group. PED's Planning Division provided housing facts and data analysis to support the development and implementation of the Consolidated Plan (HUD), the Minnesota Community Rehab Initiative (Ch. 224, Senate file 1670), the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, and other housing programs within PED. ■ In an effort to improve the consistency, accuracy, and helpfulness of the message city employees give about residential opportunity in Saint Paul, the Fire Department has scheduled a basic and follow-up communication workshop through the Total Quality Improvement program. 23 � I ��'= I �J�� I I � f I t , � � , I ��6 � ,' ��` ■ `Che`�H,ousing Coord�nation T'eamliias conti�r,Uec#toi wcth "non-city'agencees in an eEfoit`to reso��e„hpN'si�i � to Sa,��n��Paul r,�s�dents� ,Specia! effqrts d�in��g�T�g�'4 stan�ards an� provES�on-af cor�pre�lienswe hous'i�e�� Gu�de ' � ' "`� ' "`� ,,,,. �� ^ i � ; �� , � � � i I �� , Ta ic�'erease aa"cess�bil�tjr'��the F{IO to �oo� at� coq�erati�on Nt,i�th the Sa6,t�t�PauC ��wbLc schopt's, �e at fpur �etem�,q�t �ry' schei on 'the ��'�ast ��de �,�� l"f�us � er'sonnel a'rents and-�communr �ou i'"� P , P, , ,tiyg � �s� ��, ' � � � ,r � � r;'.� �� .r�i , . ; � ■ �860 pndividuxl's received Homebuyi�glEinarie4�g�,��, t j �� Topies tnc�ucled ty, pes'of mortgage' Ftnanc��, fio�n 1 � �� respons�bsiit@es refatzd �Q up[ceep��and maih�tieNances' g pr � w - P r? t�ie� ��htyk of Sa'int �Pau( s��s eciat �home� buyrn "� � ,�, r r�il ', i r ,I �� i Tf12u�'OUSIR,g ��R,'�dff�'13LCO�iY �{I�CE d55tSt.2�,�, '3�{$� 3C � ,, cude�;vip�atEOns' ancl, m spme,case�,; prpvNC�ed �°�fb� � � � � � , � i;, �t� , �cfuc,atrofl an �he �process ,an� rrgfits asso��atied wv�4E lr ii,i�ilii e� .. P ip i�i�iii i i. p i� G i , 1 i i .,� � i u �! i I Itl I�' i Ir� hl i � i�j� iv • i i':� � i��I i I I i�r i i i��i fl I JI aii a�� ' ' i � t[�pro�ement5.in The 1995 Saa[�f Paul Resadent s� - i I i I il � � i r i I I I' i= n i i i � t"�i f�2g'd[f�IfigiCliy��10U�'6RgPfO�f3�fI15dE�j�"�Cfli��f J. z h� � II - 4 i i I .�� i I y � i� C�� I� I� ��I '' ' t'� i i i i ,, i u i �,�� i� i il ' i i r i I 9�, �■ Ta�eqsr�Fe broad awareness o€uhou`sirug seevp `�es�arao ' SaC,nti','Pa'uf's fiaus�ng'prograi�is h'as proWid� tf ��, � � �� ,i , 'Squrce c�bVe Tl�, prog�a�, and �hrough �e�g_�or,h�� i i ,1 i i i�� 4�� I � f I �, i�l i' i�ui i�;'.,I Ir i r� i ��i�. i�� i i� l ii.ii t� i � � � ��l�i li i �'i Fhe� t�ous�rrg O�fce t,�as b�een r�e�enh�,e� � ; � Ya learn ,more�,�baut S�ai�t Paul's �I�ous�ng �peqgr�ml5�� i i � ��, �;��r; �� ' �l'o.i�sing Info�rnatron �O��fice,in al!'I l� i i e . i�'� F " r i, i,� �� il � y'�, � � I . ' i �' � ' i ' _ , i'��, •'�' i d�4 �� i� Yi�i � 9 Sr�pp"ort stFa#egrc��ne�ghborbpod rrnproke�m�enf �. � i� i � �d �,�T 4 .i i i I II I I'�,�'I ii'i � ` i�r ��P�I � I�� I i� i iil ii '� 7 i�� i i. I � I 'Ji � I � � . ��i O�ve�'$7 rrni�t�on �n r�sEdential ��zEaa�I�YaU��i�lufurt�si � ii� � i i u� i i ai i i i +, � i � , f i fir�t r cyele�of the, STAR p�'ogram Tt�e� funds��wi16y��be , i I II ii i i i " ' �y I u i 4%I � �FPId[�ICI[l�.'�OI' �,�OWV qH[lC�, fftl'C1C��2�IRC4I17��D'�1��f5� i�q�rl�Y1� G �� i,� i i I i� I i i g�.� I� iai �i,i � If7CdRIPS d�1Cr,'u[ f2�13DIE„f�YdY2 AF'dCdilC i C70U51f�lg,� i lYFF �„a i corrimu��[�'clej✓elopciie�S�iPro�ect�.�� ,� , �;�- � i �� ,i i � �r i i ,�',�, i ,� n f ��I � I i i i I��biQ I� ,� i Eii!'"', i i r`1 �I �r,l" . t ( + `' � r i t �� i i/ i .J ' .�i�; � I � �. i 1: I� r �i�i i'��ly � i i`� 24� �1 � I � , , �, � � � � ,� � " � � � � , � ,� � t , ol �.:.� , �, , i_ � �.t� re P,. _, ��. �. � .� 1 �o'. ,;,", ,'.,. I I� f I I , i�l I �r I 1 h � � d.� l }� i , ' iilcl�caFlalzoraYe I + '' � � ;a� .t,�.n .�. �9i ... .,� i , I':�� ,' , ��. r „ yers for� � , ' i ' , . . , �' ' 96-5�7 improve the quality of life for East Side residents. PED is coordinating this effort. 10. Ofher accomplishments: ■ Saint Paul continues its leadership role in the elimination of environmental lead hazards which affect pre-school age children. Public Health provides blood testing, screening, monitoring and education to parent of small children. In 1995, the Code Enforcement Program received a 1.8 million dollar HUD grant to continue these efforts and to provide research and abatement data to HUD. Incidental to receiving this grant, one inspector was transferred to Pub4ic Health from the LIEP office to enforce state mandated lead standards in residential buildings. ■ Pubiic Health continued to administer the Truth-in-Sale of Housing disclosure report program for all single family and duplex homes offered for sale. This report provides basic information to home 6uyers and selters. In 1994 a�d 1995, there were 9326 evatuations performed and only twelve complaints were filed against the evaluators. ■ Public Health also administered the Summary Abatement Program which designates funds to pay for the elimination of public health and pubiic safety nuisances from private property. Abatement work is usually completed by the Parks and Recreation Department, the Police Department, the Thomas- Dale Block Club Association (weed and grass cuttin� and private contractors. ■ The Housing Information Office provided information and education on general housing questions or conterns and social service referrais to 2521 individuais in 1994 and 1995. Examples of information covered include zoning questions, human rights issues, public assistance information, and chiid protection programs. ■ The PHA has implemented new marketing approaches to increase the racial diversiry in the PHA's sixteen hi-rises for elderly, disabled and single people. The PHA has continued its "Commitment to Diversity" program in the hi-rises to increase residents' acceptance of individuals' differences. 25 96- sa� Appendix A: Public and Private Partners OrganlZaYion Attion Action Attion Action Attion Ac[ion AcYion Actlon 7 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Saint Paul Public Housing Agency tPHA) • • • Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) • • • • Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) • • • Family Housing Fund (FHF) • • • • Fannie Mae • • • . Federal Housing Administration (FHA) • • . Minneapolis Communiry Development Agency • St Paul Coalition for Community Development • • • . . Home Ownership Center • • Northwest Area Foundation • Habita[ for Humanity • Private lending Institutions/mortgage insurers • • Dept. of Housing and Urban Devefopment • • Wilder Foundation • District Councils • • • Neighborhood Block Clubs • Community Stabilization Project • TenanYs Union and othertenant organizations • Saint Paul Association of Responsible • • Landlords and otherlandlord organizations Saint Paul Community Education Program • Interagency Stabilization Group • Metropolitan Council • • St. Paul/Ramsey Co. Homeless Task Force • Overnight Shelter Board • Corporation for Supportive Housing • lJnited Way • Metro Area Communities • Saint Paul Public Schools • Saint Paul Association of Realtors • • Community business organizations • 27 Appendix B: Resourcesand Programs Program Action Aaion Action Action ACtion ARioo ARion Ac[ion 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 PED Home Loan Fund • Mpls/St Paul Family Mortgage Program: • • Phase X(First Time Home Buyers) Middle Income Housing Program • • Take Credit! • • PHA HOME Program • PHA HOMEWARD Program • • Saint Paul Homestead Program • Replacement Single Family New Construdion • Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance • Housing Counseling and Information • Houses to Homes • • Special Assistance Monies • Home Ownership Counseling • Single Family Home Improvement Loans • Rental Rehabilitation Loan Program • Child Care Facifities Rehab Loans • Low Income Housing Tax Credit • • FHF Rehabilitation Participation Loans • Targeted Community Rehab Fund Program • • FORCE Program • • Vacant Building Monitoring Program • Targeted Code Enforcement • Block Club Program • • Housing Code Compliance • Lead Paint Abatement • Certificate of Occupancy • Rental Tax Equity Program • • Safe Cities Initiative • Minnesota Crime Free Multi-Housing Program • • F3�3 9� S�� Resources and Programs (cont.) Program Ac[ion Action Attion Action Action Action Action Ac[ion 7 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 TenanULandlord Education Programs • Building Better Communities Awards Program • for Rental Housing Metropolitan Livable Communities Accounts • • • Community Development Block Grants • • Relocation Assistance • Emergency Housing Requests • Utility Shutoff Assistance • Emergency Shelter Grants • Rental Opportunity Information • Human Resources and Job Program Referrals • "HomeChoice" • Family Housing Fund Suburban Initiative • Minnesota Economic Vitality and Housing • Initiative Saint Paul Residents' Guide • City Source Cable N Program • Housing Fairs • Saint Paul/Minneapolis Home Tour • Sales Tax Revitalization Program (STAR) • Small Area Plans • Targeted planning study areas (Phalen • Corridor, Riverfront) 29 S: • 1A x '. �.. ��. _ 9.�- �a� SAINT PAUL HOUSING POLICY FOR T�IE I990'S HOUSING ACTION PROGRAM 1996-1997 SAINT pAUL � AAAA Amended and adopted by the City Council, June 19, 1996 CTl'Y OF SAINT PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor Saint Pau] Department of Planning �d �onomic Development Saint Paul Deparhnent of Fire and Safety Services Saint Paul Housing Inpo��on Office Saint Paul Police Department Saint Paul Public Health Saint Paul Public Housing Age�Cy Saint Paul City Attorney's Office 96-5a � Credits Housing Coordination Team Gary Peltier, Housing Division, PED, Chair Ken Ford, Planning Division, PED Lt. Dick Gardell, Saint Paul Police Department Jon Gutzmann, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency AI Hester, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Neal Ho(tan, Saint Paui Public Health Pam Hutton, City Attorney's Office Chris Krueger, Citizen Service Office Chris Lukesh, Housing Information Office Fred Owusu, Citizen Service Office Charles Votel, Saint Paul Public Health Steve Zaccard, Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safery Services Administration and Project Staff Larry Buegler, PED Director Ken Ford, Planning Administrator, PED Beth Bartz, Planning Division, PED Katy Lindblad, Housing Division, PED Sue Hurley, Director's Office, PED Joan Hagen-Chin, Graphics, PED PED Print Shop The City of Saint Paul does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, sex, sexual or affectional orientation, age, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, marital status, religion, veteran status, or status with regard to public assistance in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. . 9�-sa� Table of Contents lntroduction Priority Actions 3 Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownership incentives 4 Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehab Financing 5 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing 6 Priority Action 4: Improve Rental Housing Management 8 Priority Action 5: Address Special Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Population while Supporting Neighborhood Quality 10 Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regional Basis 11 Priority Action 7: Improve Information and Communication 12 Priority Action 8: Support Strategic f�leighborhood Improvement 13 1994-1995 Accomplishments 15 Appendix A: Pubiic, Private and Non-P�ofit Part�e�ships 25 Appendix B: Resources and Programs 26 1 List of Abbreviations The foilowi�g abbreviations are used throughout this document: CAO CDBG F HCT HIO HRA HUD LIEP P PED PH PHA STAR Saint Paul Ciry Attomey's Office Community Development Block Grants (federal) Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety Seroices Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team Saint Paul Housing Information Office Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority Department of Housing and Urban Development (federai) Saint Paul Department of License, Inspections artd Environmentai Protection Saint Pau! Police Department Saint Paul Department of Plannin$ and Economic Development Saint Pau� Pubfic Health Saint Paui Pubiic Housing Authority Saint Paul Rteighborhood Sales Tax Revitalization Program 9�-5a� /nfroduction The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program presents the housing activities proposed by City departments in coordination with many public and private partners for the next two years. Since the adoption of the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990s, annual or biennial Housing Action Programs have been prepared to ensure continuing review a�d implementation of the policies adopted in the plan. This Housing Action Program follows those policies and acknowledges recent housing policy and program initiatives and discussions: the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, the Minnesota Communiry Rehab Initiative, the Community Development Agenda, and evaluation of the Houses to Homes Program. The 1996-1997 HousingAction Program will also serve as Saint Paul's action plan required by the Metropolitan Livab{e Communities Act. In that capaciry, it wi11 be submitted to the Metropolitan Council to document the City's intended actions to carry out its agreed upon housing goals. The 1996-1997 HousingAction Program is divided into two sections: Priority Actions and Accomplishments. The Prioriry Actions, developed for the 1994-1995 Housing Action Plan, remain relevant and were used to organize the 1996-1997 action steps as wel) as other information about Saint Paul's housing services. (Note: The Priority Actions are not intended to be a comprehensive list of City housing activities. Many ongoing housing related activities such as routine code inspections and energy loans are not highlighted due to their large volume.) The Accomplishments section reports all City departments' housing services accomplishments over the past two years. These inciude: • assisting 495 households purchase a home • providing financial assistance for the rehab of 978 housing units • addressing 787 vacant houses • performing 93,432 housing inspections • providing 43,054 individuals with information about Saint Paul housing programs and opportunities The two appendices list the City's public and private partners and City housing programs and their involvement in the Prioriry Actions. The Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team, established in 1991 to ensure communication among city agencies, produced the 1996-1997 Housing Action Program with generous input torm the City Council Community and Economic Development Committee. The Housing Coordination Team, comprised of key directors from the Housing and Planning Divisions of the Department of Planning and Economic Development (PED), the Division of Pubiic Health, the Public Housing Agency, the Housing Information Office, the Citizen Service Office, the Police Department, and the Department of Fire and Safety Services, meets regularly to review and coordinate housing-related activities. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program must be approved by Mayor Norm Coleman and the Saint Paul City Council. Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownership Incentives Objectives Encourage residents to invest in their community through home purchase. Promote ownership sol�tions where appropriate for lower-income residents. (Housing Policy for tl�e 1990s: Objective 73) /ncrease levels of owner-occupancy. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 4; Capitaf Aflocation Policy: 1996-2000. 3.2.1, E-7, p.22) Encourage the private sector to create new housirtg in response to market demand consistent with neighborhood development o6jectives. Public Purpose and City Role Mortgage lending should 6e done in Saint Paul primarily by the private sector. When community reinvestment priorities exist, speciaf private lender initiatives sf�ould 6e encouraged. However, when there are special needs important to the City's objedive for stabfe neighborhoods and adequate housing for residents, the government should sponsor /ending programs. Experience shows that sound lending through a public program can effectively meet some critical needs not adequately addressed by the private sedor. 7996-�997 Activlties (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to provide financing for homebuyers of a wide range of incomes through the Middle )ncome Housing Fund and the Minneapolis/Saint Paul First Time Home Buyers and Take Credit! programs. Estimate 245 mortgages per year. (PED) b. Continue to provide Family Housing Fund special assistance loans to low-to-moderate income fami(ies to enab(e them to purchase homes. Estimate assistance to 50 families each year. (PED) c. Enabie 30 additional low income families (15 each year) to purchase homes and move out of public housing or Section 8 rent-assisted apartments, through the PHA HOME program. (PHA) d. Continue to assist the 35 low income former public housing and Section 8 renter households in the PHA's HOMEWARD rent to own program, as they work toward full homeownership. (PHA) e. Continue efforts to reYain homeowners in danger of foreclosure through the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance program. Estimate 400-500 households in 1996-1997. (HIO) f. Continue to provide citywide homebuying counseling and finance information through the HIO. Estimate 700.800 inquiries in 9996-t997. (HIO) g. Continue to provide financial support to the Home Ownership Center to continue city-wide home ownership counseling, which provides assistance to approximately 600 Saint Pau� home buyers each year. (PED) h. Initiate discussion with private mortgage lenders, the real estate communiry, community development corporations and neighborhoods to provide new housing in all price ranges to meet market demands - consistent with neighborhood development objectives. 4 9�-sa� Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehab Financing Objectives Supplement the private lending and construction industries to improve existing city housing stock. (Housing Policy fo� the 1990s: Objectives 5, 6, and 9) Enhance the qualities and features that distinguisf� Saint Paul's neighborhoods and make them desirable places to live. (Housing Policy for the 799Qs: Objectives 1, 6, and 9) Pub/ic Purpose and Cify Ro% The age of Saint Paul's housing stock requires considerable rehabilitation and upgrading on a continuous basis. For a variety of reasons including risk, technicai assistance required, small size of loans, and inadequate home owner incomes, private /enders have traditionally avoided making many home rehabilitation loans. Therefore, the City has established a substantial public role in helping to meet this need. The City wil! maintain this role as available resources allow and support efforts to increase private sector lending in this area. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices fo� Pa�tnerships and Programs) a. Continue to provide single family home improvement loan programs to address maintenance and updating needs that would otherwise be deferred. Estimate 280 units addressed per year. (PED) b. Originate purchase/refinance and rehab loans for first-time home buyers and existing home owners for a broad range of incomes. Estimate 40 loans per year. (PED) c. Originate gap financing loans to enable eligible homeowners to purchase and rehab or refinance and rehab homes where the cost of rehab exceeds the increased market value of the project. Estimate 25 loans per year. (PED) d. Address vacant single-family and duplex structures in need of rehabilitation through the Houses to Homes program and other city or HRA programs. Estimate 50-60 rehabs, 60-80 demolitions, and 20 units of infill new construction each year. (PED) e. Continue to provide rehabilitation loans for child care faciiities including single-family homes. (PED) Continue to provide loans, where appropriate, for the rehabilitation of rental strudures. Estimate 250 units addressed per year. (PED) g. Through HIO counseling, provide information on rehabilitation programs available through city, state, and pr+vate funding sources. {HIO) Continue to provide funding to resolve critical rehabiiitation issues as necessary to suppfement otfier programs as part of the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program. (HIQ) i. In coNaboration with private and non-profit partners, explore means for substantial expansion of owner and renter property rehabilitation, targeted for significant impact on investme�t in Saint Paul neighborhoods. 5 1996-1997 Activifies (cont.) Implement the City Lead Hazard Redudion Program, under the HUD Lead Based Paint Grant Program, as well as under the Housing Rehabilitation Program; implement the Nazardous Waste Removal Program. (PED, PH, HIO} k. Aggressively market the housing rehab tax incentive benefit established by the "This Old House" program. (. Participate in Home Tour to showcase neighborhoods; support other neighborhood-based home tours. C:� 96 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Comp/iance to Reduce the Negative Conditions ot Renta/ Housing Objectives Ensure safe and well-maintained property for all residenfs. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obiectives 1, 5, and 8 fliminate behavior that detrac[s from the community. (Nousing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 7) Protect city f�ousing stock and property vafues. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives l, 5) Public Purpose and City Role Ti�e City's p�imary mechanism for ensuring health and safety for all citizens is to encourage compliance with established building codes. Experience shows that compliance can be improved through partnerships with neighborhoods and community groups as well as effective citations and housing court actions. Code compliance programs also focus efforts on elimination of chronic problem properties and urban bfight. Responding to acute complaints while addressing chronic problems will continue to be a major theme for code compliance. 1996-1997 Activlties (see Appendices for Partnerships and P�ograms) a. Define stronger methods to identify problems and resoive them before they become a drain on City resources and the neighborhood. (F, P, PH, HIO) b. Increase involvement of the Fire Department's Public Educator to help identify high risk population and develop safety education initiatives for youths in troubled areas. (F) c. Strengthen inter-department communication and work toward a more coordinated effort to deal with the city's problem properties. (F, P, PH, HIO, CAO) d. The FORCE unit wil� work with District Councils to enhance public safety. (P) e. Expand communication with block clubs and neighborhood groups to identify problems and educate them in methods fo proactively work against problem properties. Organize/ coordinate 280 new block clubs. (F, P, PH, HIO) Restructure Certificate of Occupancy fees and initiate complaint reinspection fees to better offset actual cost of inspections so that owners who comply pay the lower fees. (F) g. Evaluate inspection procedures and assignments to assure the best use of personnel to do the job most efficiently and effectively. lmpiement innovative labor saving procedures to reduce the number of compliance reinspections necessary to enforce the minimum property standards codes. (PH, F) h. Continue proactive compliance efforts and increase patroi and surveitlance of problem areas to decrease the number of citizen complaints. (P, PH) i. Work to improveJredesignlstreamline the {nformation Complaint Computer System to provide better information and facilitate intervdepartmental communication on an address-based system. (PH, HC`n 1996-1997 Activities j. Implement procedures which eliminate the necessity of repeat violation notices on the same properties for tfie same nuisance violations whicfi occur continuously. (PH) k. Work with Federal and State Representatives to identify and remedy the causes of building abandonment and to reduce the amount of time a building in forecfosure remains vacant. (PH, PED) I. Enhance coordinated approach to addressing illegal drug issues in neighborhoods. (P, F, PH) m. Implement "Crime Free Multi-Housing Program" which trains owners and managers of multi-uniY buildings,'organizes tenants, and evaluates design for crime prevention. (P) n. Continue to support training for housing court referees to maintain the effectiveness of the housing court system. (CAO) o. Monitor all Saint Paul properties for those who request more than 5 calls for police services within a 30 day period. Case manage those properties to reduce the need for police services and eliminate nuisance causes.(P) p. Implement juvenile offender restorative justice program in at least two Saint Paul neighborhoods. (P) q. Train law enforcement personnel, neighbors, and community organizations in reporting and removing graffiti. Track graffiti complaints and assist with graffiti removal including 7D summary abatement adions. (P, PH) r. Conduct 180 premise surveys to implement crime prevention through environmental design. (P) s. Implement a citizen inspecfor program for Sainf Paul neighborhoods. (P, PH} t. Impiement a fee for excessive calls for service for exterior nuisance violations. (PH, CAO) u. Increase market driven housing opportunities by working in collaboration with the private sector, i.e., for sale town homes. 8 9�o-Sd 7 Priority Action 4: /mprove Renta/ Housing Management Objectives Reduce the number of problem renta! properties in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy £or the ] 990s: Obiectives 5, 7 and 8) Increase the overall quality of rental housing in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 5, 7 and 8) Reduce the negative effects of rental housing on neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 5, 7 and 8) Pub/ic Purpose and City Ro% The public has an interest in well-managed rental property that positively contributes to the stabilization of neighborhoods. Proactive property management training and incentives can be more effective than compliance actions after the problems occur. The City should provide education for both landlords and tenants to foster strong rental properties. 7996-7997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to monitor and support the work of the Interagency Stabilization Group. (HCT) b. Improve coordination with tenant and landlord groups to encourage tenant responsibility, appropriate behavior, and high quality rental housing. (F) c. Work with the Community Stabilization Project to provide positive reinforcement of responsible tenants and property owners. (F, PH, & Hf01 d. Continue to work with and educate landiords to provide qualiry housing and effective tenant screening. Train 300 property owners/managers on screening tenants and enforcing behavior standards in their leases. Provide 500 criminal histories in support of tenant screening. (F, P, HIO) e. Utilize media resources and other citizen contact resources to educate property owners and obtain compliance for simple code requirements such as house numbers, refuse removal and routine yard maintenance. (PH, HIO, HCT) f. Continue to encourage owner-occupied 2-4 unit rentaf properties through owner-occupancy requirements in the Houses to Homes and other mortgage programs. (PED) g. Expand opportunities to provide formal tenanUfandlord education. (P, HIO) h. Through the Police DepartmenYs "Crime Free Multi-Housing Program" train rental property owners and managers and organize 50 block c{ubs in multi-unit buildings. {P) i. Work with housing management associations such as the St. Paul Association of Responsible Landlords, Minnesota Multi-Housing, and East Metro Managers Association to coordinate training and communication. (HIO, P) � 1996-7997 Activities (cont.) j. Support legislative reauthorization and imp�ementation of the Homestead tax rate for well-managed sma!! renta! properties through the Rental Tax Equity Program. (PED, HIO, PFi) k. Review applicanYs housing management experience and consider instituting training requirements for the receipt of City/HRA rental housing financing. (PED) I. Educate 400 tenants on their responsibilities and motivate them to take an active rofe in keeping their home crime free. (P) m. Distri6ute crime prevention information inciuding block club manuals, personal safety information, business safety seminars, home security. (P) n. Work with owners to implement improvements recommended by crime prevention environmental design surveys. (P) o. Provide one on one counseling in effective property management and continue formal education classes through community aduit education and classes in the high schools. (HIO) 10 96 -5a � Priority Action 5: Address Special Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Population while Supporting Neighborhood Quality Objectives Provide housing which meets the needs of individuals with speciai requirements, eg. the elderly, handicapped and /arger renter households. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obiectives 12, 14, and 15; Consolidated Plan Submissionl Provide the homeless with temporary she/ter and services to enab�e them to acquire permanent housing. (Housing Poficy for the 1990s: Objective 12; Consolidated Plan SubmissioN Promote and support self-sufficiency as far as reasonably possible where special needs exist. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: 06jective 12) Provide sufficient housing for low-income households while avoiding over-concentration of such housing in neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obj. 15; Consolidated Plan Submissianl Public Purpose and City Ro% Suitable and affordable housing is a critical ingredient for some populations to achieve self-sufficiency and the�eby �educe overall poverty. The City wo�ks with privaLe, non-profit and other public entities and the specia� populations to achieve a"continuum of care" approach including emergency, transitional and permanent housing and appropriate support services for these special populations including the elderly, handicapped and homeless as well as large family househo/ds, and low income wage earners. These efforts should be part of a broad range of community development actions including the reduction of overcrowding and over concentration of renta/ housing. 1996-1997 Acfivifies (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Work with Ramsey County to provide additional housing services to meet the needs of special popu{ations. (HIO} b. Continue to provide effective response to homeless and emergency housing needs through the folfowing programs: Relocation Assistance, Emergency Housing Requests, Utifity Shutoffs, Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant. (HIO) c. Continue to preserve and maintain existing public{y-owned low income housing. (PHA) d. Continue to emphasize conversion of smaller units and rehabi�itation as a means to create larger units for families where appropriate. (PHA, PED) e. Continue inter-agency and metro-wide collaboration to meet homeless and emergency needs. (HIO, PED, HCT) f. Continue to implement measures to reduce concentrations of low-income housing when appropriate. (PED, PHA) g. Continue to give priority to proposals for rehabilitation of existing units over new development. (PED, PHA) 11 9Yo-S� f Priorify Action 6: Meef Housing Needs on a Regiona/ Basis Objectives lmprove economic opportunity for lower income households by providing housing in proximity to expanding job opportunities. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 2 and 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-1171) Achieve broader sharing of responsibility for affordable housing among communities in the region. (Nousing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 2 and 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Reso/utions 95-132, 95-177]) Decrease, over time, the concentration of poverty found in inner-city neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 7 S; Minnesota Lrvable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-117U Pubiic Purpose and City Ro% The polarized regional housing market encourages disinvestment in inner city neighborhoods and iso/ates lower income households away from major areas of job growth. This polarization not onl y creates inadequate living environments for many people but also causes high and inequitably-distributed public costs. Government can influence this development pattern through incentives and regulations that determine the location of lower cost housing opponunities. 7he City should: support legislation which encourages development of low income housing in suburban areas; support regional efforts to address low income housing needs; and support Saint Paul suburban efforts to provide affordable housing. 7996-199T Acfivifies (see Appendices for Pattnerships and Programs) a. Support Saint Paul suburban low income housing devefopment through the Minnesota Livable Communities Act and other activities. (PED, PHA) b. Support additional legislative efforts to improve the distribution of low income housing opportunities throughout the region. (PED) c. Affirmatively further fair housing goals. (PHA, PED, HIO) d. Continue to work with Anoka, Hennepin, Dakota and Ramsey Counties on the Available Housing Data Project to increase information on rental opportunities on a metro-wide basis. (HIO) e. In reg+onai efforts to expand housing opportunities, continue to address the importance of transportation and access to social services and }'obs. (PED) f. Continue to support Metro HRA's "HomeChoice" housing mobility program, which helps lower income families receiving Section 8 rent assistance move out of inner-ciry high poverry census tracts to fower poverty areas in the region. (PHA) g. Increase market driven housing opportunities by working in collaboration with the private sector, i.e., for sale town homes. 73 Priority Action 7: /mprove lnformation and Communication Ob%ectives Provide citizens with easy access to housing programs and services. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 3) Effectively use city resources to address housing issues, Pub/ic Purpose and City Role Saint Paul residenrs have experienced difficulty in obtaining information about available housing opportunities. Some programs and complianct requirements have application processes that are complex and not easily accessibfe. Program effectiveness wi(f be improved if existing and potentia! Saint Paul residents are we(1 irtformed and have an easily identifiable access point for information and applications. Housing resources will be used most effectively when city departments coordinate activities and provide timely and accurate communication about housing compliance and programmatic issues. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Parmershrps and Programs) a. Work collaboratively with neighborhood-based crime prevention and block club organizing activities; continue support for neighborhood crime prevention. b. Continue implementation of the Housing Information Office Outreach Plan. (HIO) c. To increase accessibility to housing services, provide Housing lnformation Office services on-site at Family Centers and continue to provide on-site services at schools. (NIO1 d. Continue Housing Coordination Team work as a means to efficiently coordinate ciry housing services, to improve communicafion with the City Council, and to colfaborate with non-city agencies. (HCT, PED} e. Continue to explore opportunities to simplify access and applications for housing services. (PED, HIO) f. Continue to identify new steps to ensure broad awareness of housing services and resources available to Saint Paul residents through development of a housing �ommunication plan. (HIO, PED) g. Continue to provide facts and anatysis as required for accurate characterization of fiousing needs and suppfy. (PED) h. Attend neighborhood housing fairs. (HIO, PED) i. Explore ways to update the 7988 Housing Conditions Survey with available staff resources. (PED) 14 9�a7 Priority Action 8: Support Strategic Neighborhood /mprovement Objectives Use resources availa6le for neighborhood improvement effectively. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 2, 6, 9, 70, and 11) Ensure neigh6orhoo�level and broad public commitment to improvement decisions. Encourage citizen involvement in decision making. Public Purpose and City Ro% One key thrust of Saint Paul's housing policy is to ensure that each neighborhood fares well in the housing market for the range of households to which it is most suited. Adequate maintenance and qua(ity in the built environment is necessary in any neighborhood for this objective to be reached. City government plays a key role in 1) technical assistance and financing for rehabilitation work that the private market does not fuil y support; 2) public improvements; and 3) planning and integration of neighborhood-based and city-wide inte�ests and objectives. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to improve neighborhoods by working closely with neighborhood groups and businesses, particularly those that are effected by probiem properties. (PED, F, PH, P) b. Support efforts of STAR program participants to coordinate revitalization efforts. (PED) c. Update the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990's in response to the 1995 amendments to the Metropolitan Land Planning Act, the Community Development Agenda and recent concerns regarding housing policy. (PED) d. Continue to use neighborhood planning and cooperative work with neighborhood organizations effectively to promote reinvestment and community health. (PED) e. Continue to work with business groups, community development corporations, district counci4s and other neighborhood associations to implement neighborhood and city-wide strategies for improvement resulting from the Community Development Agenda. (PED) f. Support housing solutions that are part of integrated communiry improvement in major targeted planning study areas such as the Riverfront and Phalen Corridor. (PED) g. Continue to support the housing revitalization efforts of neighborhood-based organizations through the Capital Improvement Budgets when such efforts meet the criteria established in the Capital Allocation Policy. (PED) h. Encourage and support implementation of housing strategies identified through Small Area Plans including: (PED) Railroad Island: encourage homeownership; support rehab efforts; create buffer zone Phafen Village: encourage redevelopment of Lakewood and Maywood Apartments Brewery/Ran-View: encourage redevelopment of Familystyle homes and Koch/Mobil site Thomas-Dale: support local efforts for a block-by-block renewal campaign 15 1996-7997 Activities (cont.) East Consolidated: support local efforts for a block-by-block renewal campaign Lower DaytoR's Bluff: support Uf2AP ef{orts for rehab and new construction i. Review the proposed Community Development Agenda. After review, a Community Development �genda may be adopted by the Council and the Mayor. j. Revise the City Pian housing policy to provide a stronger framework#or neighborhood and ciry housing decisions responsive to current trends and opportunities. 16 gb-saT 9¢95 Accomplishments The following table quickly summarizes the efforts of several housing programs since 1991. Specific accompiishments for 1994-1995 follow, organized according to priority action as they appeared in the 1994-1945 Housing Action Program. Program 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Totat _ OwFietsh�p - �� . - � - Mortgage loans (MpIS/SP First Time 85 183 78 160 266 772 Home Buyers, Mid. Inc., and Take Credit � Hous2s to 1-Iomes: 7oEal 217d. 407 432- - 382 d05 ,:., ;183Q -. Rebab6ed 4Q - 32 , 35 68 57 . `.232- Demolished - 4�, &4 75 - 63 ` 56 . 345. Reoccupied .. g21. : 311 32Z 230 23f� 922EI Icifi11 New Consf. : o!a rila _ n(a 21 '[& g7 PHA HOME Pmgram (famiiies) 13 15 30 34 g2 PHA HOMENlARp Pragram .. �5 sifes . 35 sites Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention 524 761 766 660 592 3303 (households) RehabilifatTen OwnerOccupied units 377 275 278 280 214 1444 RenfaT �tnifs ' - . 190� � 78 .i�i2 .- 203. - - 45& � 849 Enforcement Housiog inspections: - , - Gert, otdccupancy . 7,439 7,9a1 '7,0$5. : 8�829 8,Q"�9- 3703�.- F2esponses €o �omp[ai�tts 2lt,fa98 15,085 73;703 `�6081 .15,696: 8i,214 TataE 7nsQec6ons - 43,5'!? #3,980 ' 3�,?E§ 47,1 t2 `..4fi;$2a 2'l4,$98 < Educational Program attendance 83,359 83,799 80,034 80,108 50,620 327,300 Block Cluks 240. 233 253 2�8 .- -23� . 9;423-. Lead testing of children <6 years oid 3,205 3,114 3,504 3,309 1642' 13,132 Rerita! Assisfance PHA Sed. 8 certificates/vouchers 86 added 62 added '100 added 70 added 50 added 3,055 PHI� Scaftered Sife acquis�ion 'Sa ac[ded �5 added 1�dded . ft�; _ , {l z -447: HIO Housing Counseling Co�acts 22,568 26,119 21,617 23,920 '19,134 '113,358 <Emergency SheTtert Grarfs 5168 40E7_ $165�044 $tttp{10A $25� tf0� $344 0Q0_ :$1 U3�a;OqC} . Rental Tax Equity Pifot Program n/a n/a nfa A33 374 807 1 Due to changes in medical assistancelmanaged care reimbursement strategies, population screened has become more setect. z 5ee HOMEWARD above. 17 , d ��,' I � _ .,, ' ., ' , � � , � , ' , � � , �,. ' � ,� , ,� �,.,, , �� , x „ r �� 1.�`,Cq�rfinae'fioiree�aw'R'ership�'i�ecenfives: � � � � �� ■"PED IvSortgage [oan programs,�prowded financingta�l6Q individua{s ei�d fami6�es�in 1994 and 266 in, � � 1'S95 tMrou�gli,the Minri�eapoli�Saint Paul ,FirsY Time-k-lorw�e'&uyers, the��Mrddle Bncoma'Hor�smg Fund, � �� antt.the Take,Credi,tr progra�s �; � � ` �� `�` � � � : �� ■$200,000 was allocateif to the Nouses ta-Homes program to,furid conversron of'reruta! s�ngle farrtily , end duplez,units to'ownervocc€ipied units; ,` , ,: , , �i �, Twenty-one single fami�y udits'were bui[h;as mfitt constiuction through PED's t-fouses to,Homes ." �� Progam,.irr 1334.,; ��S�ixteen adcYi�tib�al units�weYe bui�Ct m'�199�5�. � � � .' � � °�� ,. ■"Ph�se ([ of qhe Midelle lncome ,Housing:Fund was Caunched;with tfie sa(e of $30 m�ilimn in �bontls i'n � 7995. 'This pFOgrarri ,�,vilY,prov�de'adeiiYianal fundi�ig fbr housetwtds iNi,� annua�l',incom,e,s;'up to � �, ', $89;25Q: ' r r "■ 44;1ow �ncome fam�lies purchas`ed homes`,through`'tlaz Publre Agemey's, (PHA) HOME � prp'grams, rm�ov��g owt �of pubfic�� f�ousmg or Secfron "$ r�nY a4s��sted apa�km�nfs HOh!tE ats,o�, provtdzd�, horiie owrnership counseling to��80 famiFips dunrag.�the twa,years.' `��'` �.�� :: r �',', � �' �� AnotE�er 35 rent to-own opportunities,�in newly rehab�6�tafed•scatteced' §�Ye homes; �iese'createci �or, , pul��lic haus�i,ng resedents ,through` Ehe PNA,'s NQdviEW�RD pr'„ograri� A'� ttie en� of 1995'�!'ig�ble ; �� fa{fi�iGes vyei'e� moving, into the tast of the �home�s, wCj�6cfv they ,�v�lk be; puie'�aseng, aver the nexfi f�ve �;; � � � ye�rs. � , � � � � �. � i;S� � '� ' - � I ., ■ Through the Mortgage Foreclosu're Prevenfion Progra��the Housing Infor,�ation;rOffice heFped horrie o n e� o�, l,osm their homes thi ' r, � �v'i�zrs who`are �n,'da,�„g ' g , ougla fox�clos�tr,e 1'n 1994'�nd �995,"1-1i0 "' assisfed 525��Saint P�u4,hQme`oWVners a�'i�,�provrc�e��,$�94,4�3'in ioans',To rernstaYe morEga�,gs �� An'oY�ier 453 �homeowners� rec'ei�ied, foreclosure counseV�ng �u,n`der CF�e,H'�C1D assig�[�nenT pYograms o� ;�, �� b�asic counseling. �, �� , � � � ,: �� ■ 860 mdividiiafs recerved Flamebuying/Finanang lnfo�maYioit ihraugh Lhe Flousing Informatron; O�ce; , of,whicfl�3�16��receiv,ea,�nteasiLe`counseling ' ',�',i '�`' � � � � s' ,i ' ,, � � � �- 2 Corrtinue owner and rental,re6,ab manrrng , , �ry �� , . �, . . � „ � , r ' d 35g renfal umts were rehabbed fhrou , `PEQ ro ms. ,,; 494 owner-occc�p�ed units an gh p gra � � � r . ' ,� , � r ' ■ Th'e t-tduses"'fo Hom�S program treat e tl,^a'F'ata C'a f'7,,8� vacanC', l iousmg umCs tn 99,9� an d �99� , � � � ,i �� , G ry�,., ,, i � � ti , . �;', i ; ,. +' r. . � �, �,' ■�Five toans�tofaiing �ouer $27,Od0�ivere prif'v�dec3 to chdtf eare'�f�GrlEh�es �d'h' 1�j94 ,� ;�rt adc�Uona! ��',' �� _ � �$,10000was� . �, � �- „';,- ��'i �r�i �— g ' n�� f 995 � � , "� �loaned to a sin Ce�facili� i, � � .,r , ■�/�!vrtc began on� the Houst�g 4nformat�on'Offtce's ,t,446 QuEre'at[t PPan wli�ch as arr effort to s�mplify,' � � a�c'ess to'�Sapnt Pa�Ehousmg,progra�s:," �� — ' � � �'. � � � ■ The Housmg Informatian Offace,'has 6een [dee��ed as th,z centraf pomt for res�t1'eflts to access r�f4rmaLon,� regardiag��5amf�,Paul's' bousin � Pragrarn"S" The Htb off�ce „u�as �dertt��fied as the r�aie� �� . � ��, � �� , � i �� ' � rnt in , , e ,T�495 Sam � - , ' � � conta p �h t'Paut Resid,ents Gu�d°e � � , � � �`, � — 18 , .� i� ', i � ,. � � . �, � a �, . s �, , �' r i� + � �, i � � ' �' i ��M � �� i � r r � � + � I ` � ��i i ' � — I i � y'i ' i rf�c i � , � n i ' r� � �:i i � ro'% � � 1 u�7��q I : �LI M1 ��Ir� �� i �v ! � � � r v ° i ��i �' c Iry 4' ! � ( — � � i d i y .,. � n yu i , I�,i i i, a � �. i � �' r i r� t ' . � y„ dd�i� �� I� [� C� �'�' T uW.�� II�"I �`M1� i � 1 ��I il , I� d� � �Nill ��'� i IY.i p i i .. ,r.� .,� .,. ..i�0�.i.,tir��d,...� � .ni , .I i€�,d,r��.vY� I�'�ibl��di.I�L��u4rt��Jn+�ni .ql'f.i„�I6�i�Lnl�lfe.1T9.{r'�MIJ�il^uL�lv�,�� .. .. 9b � ■ The Housing Division began efforts to formulate a consolidated loan application wfiereby residents could apply for multiple programs through a single application. This effort wili continue into '96-'97. ■ The Housing information Office responded to 182 requests for information on home improvement loans and deferred grants through the City, State and private sector. ■ The PHA substantially rehabilitated 17 of the 35 homes purchased in the HOMEWARD program at a cost oF over $25,000, with some help from City CDSG funds. Twenty of the HOMEWARD homes had been vacant due to mortgage foreclosures; sixteen of those were vacant "HUD homes." Within five years these homes will be owner-occupied. ■ PED's Housing Division bega� a realtor outreach program to encourage use of purchaselrehab loans. 3. Provide effective enforcement to reduce the negative conditions of rentai housing. ■ All city agencies engaged in housing and regulatory activities including Public Health, Fire, Police and the City Attorney's office coordinated interdepartmental responses to problem properties through the Mayor's Informational Exchange Group. This gro�p has worked with District Councils, neighborhood groups and TenanVLandlord organizations to identify and resolve local problem properties. ■ Relief for well-managed properkies was provided through the Rental Tax Equity Program for one and two unit non-homesteaded residentiai buildings. H10 administered the pilot project whose purpose was to stabilize costs for conscie�tious landlords. The Program was intended to offer an incentive to landlords to improve their tenant-occupied property. 374 rentai properties received the tax credit; totai amount spent on repairs -$332,500. ■ Owners of weli-manaaed multi-unit buildings will be granted some relief through proposed revisions to the Legislative Fee structure for Certificates of Occupancy. Under the revisions, owners wouid receive a 25% discount on the C of O fee if the property owner assures compliance prior to the first renewal inspection. Fees were further revised to include a$50 reinspection fee for complaints (after the first reinspection), and there is a 50°lo reinspection fee assessed after the first reinspection. ■ The City Attorney's office in conjunction with the Fire Department and Public Health provided a seminar to housing court referees about housing court issues. ■ Housing court referees, the City Attomey's office and the Fire Department coordinated efforts focussed on increasing effectiveness of tag writing and metfiods of gaining compliance. ■ 4-iousing court referees indicated some interest in the use of mandatory education for landiords/{and owners convicted of housing violations and in providing information packets on city housing programs to those appearing in housing court. Additional work would be needed to implement either idea. ■ FORCE, a community policing effort, continued to address problem_properties in neighborhoods. FORCE addressed over 2000 problem property complaints in 1994 and 1945. FORCE provides crime prevention information, community organizing, housing inspections, and law enforcement as tools to address neighborhood concerns. 19 . I � ' . i� . � I I �� I i l V I I i Y I i� .. .i � . � . i f L ' ' �� 1 . �� ' � � . . „ I i . � . � i � , � . ■, �,278 bfock��cl'tlbs wefe �added d�ring 199� totalt�ng�.,� 193 acCiwe blc�ck„'cLu&s ��roughout�^S�ainc Pau�! ': An "additional 230'btock club's�v}%ere forined in i9r}S_ � �' ','r' � r' � � ■ Qwners with ecarromic Eimi�ations continue to be, r'eferred to PED for;loan a�d gra�t rR€oSmatton ta� Nelp�thein�achievz�cocl'eco�pt � ��;;'� , ■ Pubt�c Healtii rnet with the S,aint Paul AssooEatiocr of �Respo�sibfe LandEorcis and preSented`,te�an,t �' ` � � r,espons�bF6i#ies as a'wtl?ned in�th�� C�ry'��Ordinance� �"�: �� , ' "'� � � � � � , � ��'. � � � � r ■, �Hous�ng �nspectors cMe�e encouraged and instructei! trn ciCe rrFesponsib[e tenanis when��erie�t _ i i� �s,, � � � ro6fetn' „ � � Y = befi'avior is� o�bwoust �caus�ng the housing'p ,, �� ■, The Fae Qepartment expanded the use of Publia Educatrqn to target high nsk popu(a#ions att mu1t� , r;ur�it cor�plezes and �'ed�caFe the''juven�le�'popnlatron in these� complezes thr,oug4i'��e s�fety, faars ■ The �are DeparEmenE wrth coord�na��n ass+stance from the FI'oustng Information 0€f6ce ��c�eased � mvdtve�neat oE socealr serv�ce �agenazs, m��eso6v�ng, ;��pre �� 6leknsprn�,prQ�ert�es � AclwKe ancY Ct�itd- � � � Pr,otect+on'�!1!arkeYS,,�tk�e Cammu�rFty�Stalii�tizaUOn Pro�ect arrd,�`Yl�eTerrants�i[.�ruoGi,"!wrere tacFivet�y�� ' � � involved in, �'rourdmg 3ss�stance;to ienanf�s � � ' ` ,' ' , ,' � ' , i, ; . I , .�o I , I � i ,� � �¢', i � i 1 � � ■ The Fire DeqartmenY, Po{ice, aod Publi Fieatth wartced wtth tF�e Safe Ct�es Commrttee to-�nrgan¢e� � � ti � i �� ' �� ; ; , �"� an'�t ass➢st in`dawrrtow� sweeps'and audits and inptEatu�es i�e neigC;aborhoods � -, , ,� ., i i � , � � ■ PukrV�c Healt}i"s Vacant,Bu�ldangs Monrtor��g and De�volition`Progc��r'eonttnuesrto syccessfully ,' ^ address the,jssues anc!{�roble�s",assoctatec�,wttC� va,cant, bo� �r¢ecl;aoid abandoned'propertves � In 1995, Yhe Cit� Cauncil' c�es�gnate,d additional fu��ling af $50Qf000� to�b'g used £oe,,the demef��oon of - corrrmeraal and �ndustrral ,�aeant bu�Fdmg� T�e le�gth�'of� tt�re °a fn1�l�ng,sits vaC�t a�rcl,boascfea ;' � � � � ', i � a �� v i i�i o 3 i�r i �has''been tlramaticalfy reduced to an' �average o� two, yeai's, �o'mpared w,ith a five year�average �n � 1990 ' � ;° � a x, � � � � , 'M �i + � , r . ,, ' ^`� � � ;� ' ` � � ■ !n,'1,544, �the Mapor and the Gty.,CounciC ,. . . ` 3 _ , ,, qroa�ctrve,approach ih; addressi�g properties gener,2 �, i �� 1'od s'ta ��c�irF �� rofr4�rr�s h�4 e' re'�ti��ted a d'�t�� n � n S SP u „ � . ., .� „ thrnugh tfie efforts of this pro "g'ram arid,the �rnprqy� , , ",, � � r , i ■„More tfian 3'b,000 citnzen compTa�nts we�re proces: Enforcemeer�. 1n 1495', Fk�e Crt}^ ,CoUna!' endorse�d'�I haue receiuei� prior notices of n'uisance uioiat�on's,. � re��at abate�?'r��5 � � �,'` ,� � � � � ,;, ■ TRe` Piibitic'G-Eea'tfih an,d! �oftce� DepaFfrtlents cor�,tin% activ�ties on that a're deterioraYed, unsar euident These• progrdms a{so, coordinafe; e�force%� ,. ;I,� "i�,� i� , i �,,,r., � ip��.�,,� � , � „' , ,r .,i, i,,: . ��, �■ In,$eptembe� t995 the PNA requesteci HtpD � ,, �nd healtF� gtarrdards as tbe ira'sp�ect�ore stai�darc� Eqi � ', F-)� �UD houyiri� qir�Etty� j�R�acd�s'� �preurou�� us�ed �� 'n; , er�.spect�dns,of Section'S&subs+d�ized u��#s'��np�mu{t�,�1 , City's Certi�icate of C?ecupanc� in'spect o�' systerti: ,and sepaSake,standa�ds responded to Fecommendal p�o,perry awtiers' and teaants�'associat"rons'and �t ,�. � i �,,� � � „' , 20 G `, � i , � , , , � x�� . � � �, � �� ' r, �'�� ,� � , �, .�„ � � �- � n u k i,i f� � rvr�� I i '. ii _i�� i � �� J ' '�i � i`i �1 � n f i �! yi i Y , , � ,] 4.� i': i d � �v i � � sq �� h�7,� I I � i„� i .. ' °�"� ,i i . „+' '��, I� i �� f`"��1�' ., . , �. .,, � M, -, �. s, � � ,� � tm � i .. �, . . „ I I� „„; r , � �' �' ' , �� , _ y �ic� ipg � „ �— � i�; �� ;� ttat�v �, � � 4�'; Idt�' �rig the ate — ��,�, — �rons ves, qf � � �; ' , — ', 9�-5a 7 collaboration with staff from the Fire Department and the Public Health/Code Enforcement program. HUD approval was pending at the end of 1995. ■ In 1995, the City Council passed an ordinance allowing the police to bill responsible persons for costs of providing pofice services in response to nuisance events when the property has had more than 5 such events in a 30 day period. ■ The Po�ice improved direct communication with Safe Cities staff to respond quickiy and appropriately to probiems identified in Safe Cities audits. ■ The FORCE Housing Code Enforcement Officer completed 650 cases in 1994 and 7995. ■ Crime prevention officers completed 475 premise surveys of both residential and commercial property to make recommendations in improving the structure and landscape according to Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles. 4. /mprove rentai housing management. ■ HIO administered the Saint Paul Rental Tax Equity pilot project. (See above) ■ TenanULandlord education programs continued to be taught by the Fire Dept and tfie Housing Information Office through the Saint Pau1 Community Education program and to communiry and neighborhood groups. HIO provided information on the responsibilities as well as rights of both tenants and landlords to 4030 individuals in 1994 and 1995. ■ The Police Department and FORCE unit assisted many landlords in obtaining information for tenant screening and improving their screening processes. Public Health, as well, encouraged property owners to utilize good screening techniques in selecting their tenants. ■ The Police Department's FORCE unit began a new program entitled the Minnesota Crime Free Multi- Housing Program to address crime in apartment complexes through management training, tenant training and involvement, and security assessments. The copyrighted program has proven successful in 29 states. Through the Minnesota Crime-free Multi-Housing Program, the Police Department encouraged property managers to assess security measures sucfi as locks, lights, windows and shrubbery and make improvements where necessary to create a safer living environment. ■ The Fire Department continues to enforce securify requirements in multi-unit buildings and covers security as well as fire safety in their education effort. ■ Efforts to inventory existing opportunities for rentai housing management training and recommendations for improvements io available training opportunities were turned over to the Interagency Stabilization Group, whose membership includes staff members of PED, the Minneapolis Community Development Agency, the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and the Family Housing Fund. Ann Norton is acting as the consultant to this group which has produced some recommendations regarding the improvement of rental management training. ■ In addition to financial information, rental property owners are now required to submit a Property Management Plan when applying for Rentai Rehab Loans. The plan is used to assess the owner's experience in managing rental property and is given equal weight along with the financial statement 21 _ �.. r.: ..� ., �'_ ," � r'� ' ' , i �; i � i r k n urtdenA{rFt�n decisPons tn.�ddrtFan Pro. ., . „� . , � ,� botli'progerty,mamceira�ce and deaUmg,��tf ' '� " � � ' � �, � � � � � �k , i �,�, � " 5 Suppert th"e;Jow afer�srty c�taracfer,,�of^�ee � � � , ',^' � . ,�° r i,■ �!a ttew renta'I �ukti ��%nt�y umts�,were' cor��' „ ,, , ii'i ,; i i � ,; � � � i � � ' `� � TheJPubi�c �-lous«ng�Agencyiassnseed � co� through Pts °HOMEUVARC3„acquqs�onfre�ab'i i ' i E� � i '�" � �'. , � �'�5 i � ,i� s i � �' ' � ;' , i u '�c�� ■ T�ie�.,�2ub�ic fV�lisl�Vg Ageney ernp�asFr� co , �� ttiio�gh cdr�ersrortiof �ree,dup�lex�s t� si'�; �-;'` acquis'4tioriZr,ehabilitation/homeownership , � ,' , � �' � , , . � R " �� i ■ ��IICOUgH�L�I7��f�'OQI5,25aIfOf,Hb1 PfO�ST1� � �rrrgfe-famd�� Fiomee��rf�4'�ow�z�ocec�'�pe�f�l� �I ; i � ,_ J � . � 6 f(� i 1 rl'. �'� I J.,� I 1 4 ��i � I I�I�I I :p� ( �.�. � ,,,i ` I N , E�PEb's iRatiise}�� HiIV �Reriovetton P,,ro�eck"�nri�l�,� � '�rx �uul��rgs:an yit�tars�a��an� D�jtton, f�vs� , , , P[4t{��1996v,.. � � ,�r" �h�?' � i� 4"l�,(! ,. f d1 I, il ' V ' � �!f� r �'1 � i� � � � ,l � � �� il r i i r� i, i �t,fi , �i '� t 7 � ' � �I�,.��?�� , , `'s,."h�IP,� �� d�� " IIS; � �,�� , ii �. �� , ,',, , eme�gency ki'oi '�r � �� "' � ' ;', „ ip i i � �,�� i i la i� � i i';,� ,d��, !�� 'i' a� r''a" ,. ' w i � i� F i , d�� -`r , �, i ' iyon� ,' � ", i � i� S ',� � �� , ' � �,�� , ;��, �i,` I n�i �' � , �;, � �;,'� �� ,;�� ,,. � � � �,�� , , � �, �,; i, r �� r i�rrG �{ �NF1�Si45�4� � �. m i r r � i rv � i '.'1 � � { , � ,; � � � � , "„� , 24 ;. I�� i � � �v '��, ,, ., i�`4�+� i � , I I�� y� � 0 I� � � � 'f � , � '�u 'i ��!n€,t � � i � � i,�i��,li � , ,,, },�� G � .r � ia 1i� f,i'f 1 �,. ' F�� f A ��' " � 'q � ntii� � i 'G �� iU �4+�, i � f,� i �� y i.. �F.,� G N i�o ji l�i i . k'�1�1'4 O�� - � a i fr1V n�� ,' I v ,„� � f � y �� r1 v' � � - i„�,�� _ � " _ , L'_ ,� � — r+' la— i y�! � i I — i Ar , �I 14Y A^? i — ?,'� f. �.:. �,, g6 5a7 1995. McKinney Homeless Housing Stabilization: HIO staff assisted homeless families and individuals find permanent housing and stabi{ize their living situation. 100 fami{ies and individuals were assisted in 1994 and 1995. Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant: Staffed by HIO, this board monitored the use of emergency shefter in the Ciry of Saint Paul and made recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on issues related to homelessness. In addition, HIO administered $253,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant funds to nlneteen programs that provide services to the homeless. ■ Counseling and information on both market rate and subsidized housing programs was provided by the Housing Information Office to 4770 households seeking adequate affordable housing in 1994.and 1995. In addition, market rate lists of rental housing were available and a network with some private property owners has been developed. Two phones were provided for ciient use within the office. 7. Meet housing needs on a regional basis. The City of Saint Paul supported the Minnesota Livable Communities Act passed by the State Legislature in 1945. The Ad provides incentives for al! metro area communities to meet low income housing goals. The Minnesota Livable Communities Act inciuded funding for the Livable Communities Demonstration Account to encousage communities to think creatively about the needed connections between transportation, access to social services and jobs in regional efforts to expand housing opportunities. ■ in an effort to encourage devefopment of low income housing opportunities in suburban Saint Paul communities, the PHA invited suburban HRAs to collaborate with them in providing additionai low income housing outside of St. Paul. Washington Counry and the PHA prepared a joint development application to HUD, requesting funds for scattered site public housing rental/homeownership units to be acquired in Washington County. Unfortunately, Congress rescinded the HUD development funds just before the application was to be submitted. ■ Saint Paul has also encouraged the efforts of the Family Housing Fund to fund affordable housing in suburban areas with links to transportation and job opportunities. 8. /mprove informafion and communication. ■ The Information Exchange Group has provided a forum for Council members and District Councils to voice concerns over pro6lem properties. In turn, the lnformation Exchange Group has made a commitment to keeping them informed on issues raised in the Group. ■ PED's Planning Division provided housing facts and data analysis to support the development and +mplementation of the Consolidated Plan (t-{UD), the Minnesota Community Rehab {nitiative (Ch. 224, Senate File 1670), the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, and other housing programs within PED. ■ fn an effort to improve the consistency, accuracy, and helpfufness of the message city empfoyees give about residential opportunity in Saint Paul, the Fire Department has scheduled a basic and follow-up communication workshop through the Total Quality lmprovement program. 23 ;'Ir —,�', 'rl.., i f. I1 " .�_. r' � II I � �' ,The�, Houstrug'��oordAnat�,on Feam��has conE��ued,to�' . � � , �� ., � � r� , � wi��th non-crXj? agenci'e3„'in an,�ef�ort Co, re�s_oVwe F�ol�5�� to„Satnt�Pau1 tes�dents:' SpeciaYi�,fforts ciuring 1994 w , standards �a�nif ,prpvESton of eomp,rehensiu,'e ho�sing� , �uide � ' ' a. '� ■ To;i;qerease accessibil�ty, �he F�IQ began fo Yaaic at caoperatron �yith �tNe �5'alnt Pau1•.pubtre s�h'ools� th�� , , � � d r r: �, �, atfi�"ur e�e�m��tary sch'qol� on't�'e East�S�ide �hL's; � person'net, pa'rents, and cominuriity� groups. ��r' �� .��, � � ;�, � ,.,;�'. y , ' �� , . i 86(j indi��d�lais c�eceivetl HorGieb'uyr�glF�nanGrw�"t'r, , ��qpics �inetucled,tyPes moctgage fin�nt',ng, How' � � ,� �il �, i utii�;di r�spons�b�I�Yies reR�ted';to upkeeja and mairite�ar�ce �tfr,e City df,Samt Pauf"5 specia�;kiome buyrii�g'progr� ;; �` „� � �i � �" �' ,�.`� � r i �'i'. t'�1�C1 ,, , cad�violationsand,�t�i�:'soinecases,�rov�,�ed'��al�lo� �I i 1 u� .,;� I� �OC2SSdT1C� fil'��1T5 2'SSOCId1'CC4t�4�YNf� � ��I '6 �� "�ii i' � i i�,i u i,"� �il I I�i�� i i � 1, i�i �,� �i fi id'fIJ a ir �i*f i , I i 7 � ii �, ,�'�:- �'� Imp�'o�reraae�n�s th�e 79�5 S�fnt'!�Pau�l' Rasr�le�Y'�S �I „� 'regarding'city'housi�ig''p�ograms;�ndcurreitCcantai � , � �, � ,��.�� i �,��,��'�' � � i,�:� I' , i , iil i � i i' � i i '� i,�� i, rr � i'i� i"6 i rl� iy�l , �■ Td�,ensur,e�,b�'oacG'a�varenessof'hqUsqng'seivnces,a�� `;" SairttPauY's.Iiou�smg�plograms fias been"piovi�e'd:fl � �� :' Sou�'ce cable ; program, and fitiFdagh Rei �gEibarfio �� .w I r "p I „ �vkl I i If i� i P � )71 tl ., i �j Y m". i 1 I 4��i1 � 4 � 1 = I� I� ��ir I I I �Ji I I�I1��'� i i �, i i �� ii �,�i i 7�r-. i d i, � I � � i � i The Hous�n� Grforroat�on OE�acethas beer� qdent�flie� ii u"li � V� i li i Ili • I i� i ta iearri, rr�ore� al7oe�t S,a�r� �xu� s,,fiousing programs � r � i � �� ' �';� FCotising in`Eormakion C�f£�ee kn a�,t'communaea�fron� , �, � � o i I t � ;_t i i i i I� li i7�d' 7 ' I ' r,' i � r � I � i i �, i � i � .i. i �'i i i �'� i � � i � � i'� ��i �� ,�, � ' 9 Stipporl'strate'grc ne��hbortfio� rm`pro'e�ernenf " � �Ji , r '�i � r �.• ,�i p , a i,� I i r � I i � 1� i i i {� n, i � r i ,� i I i l L' 7 d i: II i I i� 9 ii�� , I l �:� it �... GI i ,�, ii i il ii �I� I i � i i P h ri I I f Ov'er �$�7 rn� li �r� re9iden�ral �ret�abihtation �� nds' i� i �� ! u iil i � i II��I �, � flESt''uycl,e a� th� STA'R' Program ; Tf�e f�Nd's'�vH�1 i 1s�' � i la � i i1 i I ��I ' I i i1v i �i p � �funancrrng f�r',low anc�'m�ddte!��come'li�,ug%rers� ta'Fr � i i,�i I i i � i .� o� i r p. ' �� '' ineqmes a� -to re �4 tate'vacant housin�g.^�,/�n,a r� �� .i r�i i�i / i�� i'I,v�:J�.f � � I'� � i i i . „ . COfRfl�lli}R(LV;�C{�2�20Df11.2I1Y i + ,''� � � I. .i�R'�I .� � � '�W,�' I��I rp ." , ��9�i1�� , r ., ., .� �� . ..� , , 11 � .'^' „ > , , i ' 7 !ij Tl iii r � �� r ,� � ., , a✓el o,lt r, , i i �; i'�"G �� I �i � � � i �,� ��li . � r�� , �t � �� , . � improve the quality of life for East Side residents. PED is coordinating this effort. 10. Other accomp/ishments: 9�-5�7 ■ Saint Paul continues its leadership role in the elimination of environmental lead hazards which affect pre-school age children. Public Health provides blood testing, screening, monitoring and eduwtion to parent of small chiidren. In 1995, the Code Enforcement Program received a 1.8 million doilar HUD grant to continue these efforts and to provide research and abatement data to HUD. incidental to receiving this grant, one inspector was transferred to Pubiic Health from the LIEP office to enforce state mandated fead standards in residential buildings. ■ Public Health continued to administer the 7ruth-in-Sale of Housing disclosure report program for all single family and duplex homes offered for sale. This report provides basic information to home buyers and seilers. in 1994 and 1995, there were 9326 evaluations performed and only twelve complaints were filed against the evaluators. ■ Public Health also administered the Summary Abatement Program which designates funds to pay for the elimination of public hea4th and public safety nuisances from private property. Abatement work is usually completed by the Parks and Recreation Department, the Police Department, the Thomas- Dale Btock Club Association (weed and grass cutting) and privaYe contractors. ■ The Housing lnformation Office provided information and education on general housing questions or concerns and social service referrals to 2521 individuals in 1994 and 1995. Examples of information covered include zoning questions, human rights issues, public assistance information, and chiid protection programs. ■ The PHA has implemented new marketing approaches to increase the racial diversity in the PHA's sixteen hi-rises for elderly, disabled and single people. The PHA has continued its "Commitment to Diversity" program in the hi-rises to increase residents' acceptance of individuals' differences. 25 g��sa� Appendix A: Public and Private Partners Organization Ac[ion A�tion Ac[ion Aaion Attion ARion Ac[ion Action 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Saint Pauf Public Housing Agency (PHA) • • • Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) • • • • Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) • • • Family Housing Fund (FH� • • • • Fannie Mae • • • • Federal Housing Administration (FHAJ • • • Minneapolis Community Development Agency • St Paul Coalition for Community Development • • • • • Home Ownership Center • • Northwest Area Foundation • Habitat for Humanity • Private lending Institutions(mortgage insurers • � Dept. of Housing and Urban Development • • Wilder Foundation • District Councils • • • Neighborhood Block Clubs • Community5tabilization Project • Tenant's Union and other tenant organizations • Saint Paul Association of Responsible • • Landlords and otherlandlord organizations Saint Paul Community Education Program • Interagency Stabilization Group • Metropolitan Council • • St. Paul/Ramsey Co. Homeless Task Force • Overnight Shelter Board • Corporation for Supportive Housing • United Way • Metro Area Communities • Saint Paul Public Schools • Saint Paul Association of Realtors • • Community business organizations • 27 Appendix B: Resources and Programs Program Accion Action ACtion Action Action ARion Action Action 7 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 PED Home Loan Fund • Mpls/St Paul Family Mortgage Program: • • Phase X(First Time Home Buyers) Middle Income Housing Program • • Take Credit! • • PHA HOME Program • PHA HOMEWARD Program • • Saint Paul Homestead Program • Replacement Single Family New Construction • Mortgage Forecfosure Prevention Assistance • Housing Counseling and Information • Houses to Homes • • Special Assistance Monies • Home Ownership Counseling • Sing(e Fami(y Home Improvement Loans • Rental Rehabifitation Loan Program • Child Care Facilities Rehab Loans • Low Income Housing Tax Credit • • FHF Rehabilitation Participation Loans • Targeted Community Rehab Fund Program • • FORCE Program • • Vacant Building Monitoring Program • Targeted Code Enforcement • Block Club Program • • Housing Code Compliance • Lead Paint Abatement • Certificate of Occupancy • Rental Tax Equity Program • • Safe Cities Initiative • Minnesota Crime Free Multi-Housing Program • • � 4♦ - . Resources and Programs (cont.) 9<o-5d7 Program Adion Ac[io� Ac[ion AcYion Ac[ion Action Action Action 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 lenanULandlord Education Programs • Building Better Communities Awards Program • for Rental Housing Metropolitan Livable Communities Accounts • • • Community Development Block Grants • • Relocation Assistance • Emergency Nousing Requests • Utility Shutoff Assistance • Emergency Shelter Grants • Rentai Opportunity Information • Human Resources and Job Program Referrals • "HomeChoice" • Family Housing Fund Suburban Initiative • Minnesota Economic Vitality and Housing • Initiative Saint Paul Residents' Guide • City Source Cable N Program • Housing Fairs • Saint Paul/Minneapolis Home Tour • Sales Tax Revitalization Program (STAR) • Small Area Plans • Targeted planning study areas (Phalen • Corridor, R+verfront) 29 . �� r._ qG-s�� SAINT PAUL HOUSING POLICY FOR THE 1990'S` HOUSING ACTION PROGRAM 1996-1997 SAINT' PAUL an, Mayor �aint Paul Depaxtment of Planning and Economic Development Samt Paul Depathnent of Fire and Safety Services Saint Paul Housing Information Office Saint Pa�l Police Department Saint Paul Pubiic Health Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Saint Paul CiTy Attomey's Office '� Credits Housing Coordination Team Gary Peitier, Nousing Division, PED, Chair Ken Ford, Planning Division, PED Lt. Dick Gardell, Saint Paui Police Department Jon Gutzmann, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency AI Hester, Saint Paui Public Housing Agency Neal Holtan, Saint Paul Public Nealth Pam Hutton, City Attorney's Office Chris Krueger, Citizen Service Office Chris Lukesh, Housing Information Office Fred Owusu, Citizen Service Office Charles Votel, Saint Paul Public Health Steve Zaccard, Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety Services Administration and Project Staff Larry Buegler, PED Director Ken Ford, Planning Administrator, PED Beth Bartz, Planning Division, PED Katy Lindblad, Housing Division, PED Sue Hurley, Director's Office, PED Joan Hagen-Chin, Graphics, PED PED Print Shop The City of Saint Paul does not discriminate on the basis of disabifity, race, sex, sexual or affedional orientation, age, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, marita/ status, re(igion, veteran status, or status with regard to pu6lic assistance in the admissiort or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. . f �1G•Sz? Table ot Contents Introduction 3 Priority Actions Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownership Incentives 4 Prioriry Action 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehab Financing 5 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing (, Priority Action 4: Improve Rental Housing Management 8 Priority Action 5: Address Special Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Popu4ation while Supporting Neighborhood Qua{ity 10 Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regional Basis 11 Priority Action 7: improve Information and Communication 12 Priority Action 8: Support Strategic Neighborhood Improvement 13 1994-1995 Accomplishments 15 Appendix A: Pub/ic, Private and Non-Profit Partnerships 25 Appendix 8: Resources and Programs 26 1 � List of Abbreviations The following abbreviations are used throughout this document: CAO Saint Paul City Attorney's Office CDBG Community Development Biock Grants (federaf} F Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety Services HCT Saint Paul Nousing Coordination Team H(O Saint Paul Housing Information Office HRA Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority HUD Department of Nousing and Urban Development (federa!) LIEP Saint Paul Department of License, I�spections and Environmental Protection P Saint Paul Police Department PED Saint Pau! Department of Planning and Economic Development PH Saint Paul Pubtic Health PHA Saint Paul Public Housing Authority STAR Saint Paul Neighborhood Sales Tax Revitalization Program ��.s�? Introducfion The 1996-i997 HousingAction Program presents the housing activities proposed by City departments in coordination with many pubiic and private partners for the next two years. Since the adoption of the Saint Pau! Housing Policy for the 7990s, annual or biennial Housing Action Programs have been prepared to ensure continuing review and implementation of the polic+es adopted in the plan. This Housing Action Program foliows those policies and acknowledges recent housing policy and program initiatives and discussions: the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, the Minnesota Community Rehab Initiative, the Community Development Agenda, and evaluation of the Houses to Homes Program. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program will also serve as Saint Paul's action plan required by the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act. In that capacity, it will be submitted to the Metropolitan Council to document the City's intended actions to carry out its agreed upon housing goals. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program is divided into two sections: Priority Actions and Accomplishments. The Priority Actions, developed for the 19941995 Housing Action Plan, remain relevant and were used to organize the 1996-1997 action steps as well as other information about Saint Paul's housing services. (Note: The Priority Actions are not intended to be a comprehensive list of City housing activities. Many ongoing housing related activities such as routine code inspections and energy loans are not highlighted due to their large volume.) The Accomplishments section reports all City departments' housing services accomplishments over the past two years. These include: • assisting 495 households purchase a home • providing financial assistance for the rehab of 978 housing units • addressing 787 vacant houses • performing 93,432 housing inspections • providing 43,054 individuals with information about Saint Paul housing programs and opportunities The two appendices list the City's public and private partners and City housing programs and their involvement in the Priority Actions. The Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team, established in 1991 to ensure communication among city agencies, produced the 1996-1997 Housing Action Program with generous input form the City Council Community and Economic Devefopment Committee. The Housing Coordination Team,. comprised of key directors from the Housing and Planning Divisions of the Department of Planning and Economic Development (PED), the Division of Public Health, the Public Housing Agency, the Housing Information Office, the Citizen Service Office, the Police Department, and the Department of Fire and Safety Services, meets regularly to review and coordinate housing-related activities. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program must be approved by Mayor Norm Coleman and the Saint Paul City Council. Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownership /ncentives Objectives � Encourage residents to invest in their community through home purchase. Promote ownership solutions where appropriate for /ower-income residents. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 13) Increase fevels of owner-occupancy. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 4; Capital Alfocation Policy: 1996-2000. 3.2.9, f-7, p.22) Public Purpose and City Ro/e Mortgage lending should be done in Saint Paul primarily by the private sector. When community reinvestment priorities exist, special private lender initiatives should be encouraged. However, when there are specia/ needs important to the City's objective for stable neighborhoods and adequate housing for residents, the government should sponsor lending programs. Experience shows that sound /ending through a public program can effectively meet some critical needs not adequately addressed by the private sedoc 139Cr1997Actrvities (see Appendices for PannersRips and_Programs} a. Corrtinue ta provide financing for hornebuyers of a �vide range of F�comes through the Middle Inarme Housing Fund and the Minneapo[is/Sainf Panl First Time Home &uyers and Take Credit! programs. Estimate 245 mortgages per year. (PED} 6. Continue ta provide Farniiy Housing Pund special assistance loans ta lowto-maderate income families to enable them to purchase homes. Estimate assistance to SQ fami4ies each year. (PEB) c. Enable 30 additiortaf tovr iacor�e families (SS ea€h,year} ta purchase hotnes and move ottt=_ - of public ftousing Qr Seetion-8 sent assisted apartments, through the PHA HOME program:. (PHAI d. Contin�e to assist tf�e 35 !ow income {ormer public housirrg and Section 8 renter househo{ds in the PHA's HOMEWARD rent to own program, as they work toward futl homeownership. (PHA) e. Continue efforts to retain homeowners in danger of foreclosure through the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance program. Estimate_400-50Q households in 1996-1397. (HIO) f. Continue to provide Homebuyi�g and Finance Information through the Housing information Office. Estimate 700-800 inquiries in t996-1997. {HIO} g. Continue to provide financial support to the Home Ownership_Center to cantinue city--. _- wide home ownership counseling, which provides assistance to approximately 600 Sairif Paul home buyers each year. (PED) n a�•sy� Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Renfa/ Rehab Financing Objectives Supplement the private lending and construction industries to improve existing city housing stock. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 5, 6, and 9) Enhance the qualities and features that distinguish Saint Pau�'s neighborhoods and make them desirable places to live. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 6, and 9) Public Purpose and City Ro/e The age of Saint Paul's housing stock requires considerab�e rehabilitation and upgrading on a continuous basis. Fo� a variety of reasons including risk, technical assistance required, small size of loans, and inadequate home owner incomes, private lenders have traditionally avoided making many home rehabilitation loans. Therefore, the City has established a substantial public role in helping to meet this need. The City will maintain ihis role as availabie resources ai�ow and support efforts to increase private sector lending in this area. 7996-1997 ACtivities (see Appertdices for Partnershrps and Programs) a. Continue to provide smgie family home improvement loan peograms to address maintenance and updating oeeds thaY wouid otherwise be deferred. Estimate 280 units addressed per year. iPED) b. Originate purchase(refinance and rehab loans for first-time home buyers and existing home owners for a broad range of incomes. Estimate 40 loans per year. (PED} c. Originate gap financing ioans to enable eligible homeowners to purchase and rehab or refinance and rehab homes where the cost of rehab exceeds #he increased market value of the project. Estimate 25 la�ns per year, iPED} d. Address vacant singla-farr4F(y aflcf duplex structures in need of rehabilitation throug� t#te Houses to Homes program. Estimate SQ-60 rehabs, 60-80 demofitions, and 20 units of infill new constructton each year. (PED} e. Continue to provide rehabilitation loans for child care facilities including single-famity homes. (PED) f. Continue to provide loans, where appropriate, for the rehabifitation of rental structures. Estimate 250 units addressed per year. iPED) g. Through HIO counseling, provide information on rehabilitation programs available througF� city, state, and private funding sources. (H{O) h. Continue to provide funding to resolve critieal rehabilitation issues as necessary to supplement other programs as part of the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program. {Hl03 Priority Action 3: Encourage .Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing Objecfives Ensure safe and well-maintainedproperty for all residents. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: ObJectives 1, 5, and 8 Eliminate behavior that detracts from the community. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Ob�ective 7) Protect city f�ousing stock and property values. (Housing Policy for the 7990s: Objectives i, 5) Pablic Purpose and City Role The City's primary mechanism for ensuring health and safecy for all citizens is to encourage compliance with established building codes. Experience shows that compliance can be improved through partnerships with neighborhoods and community groups as well as effective citations and housing court actions. Code compliance programs also focus efforts on eliminatioR of chrorric problem properties and urban blight. Responding to acute compfaints whife addressing chronic problems wi!! continue to be a major theme for code compliance. 1996 1947 Activit►`es (see Rppendiees for Pannerships and Programsk a. Define stronger methods to identify problems and resolve them before they become a dra'rn on City resources and The neighborhood, (F, P, PH, H14) b. Increase involvement of the Fire UepartmenYs Pub(ic Educator to help idenfify high ristc population and develap safety edocation initiatives for youths in traubled areas. (F} c. Strengihen inter-departmenE eomatunicatiaR artd work taward`a tnore coordinatecf effo� ta -` c€eaf wsth the city`s problem properties, Ef, P, PH; Hif?, Cf+.O} _ d. The FORCE unit wifi work with District Councils to enhance public safety through the Safe Ciry tnitiative. (P� e. Expand communication with block c4ubs and neighborhood groups to identify problems and educate them in methods to proactively work against problem peoperties. Organize! coordinate 28o new bfock clubs. (F, P, PH, f f. Restructure Certificate of Occupancy fees and initiate comptai�t reinspection fees to better offset actual cost of inspections sa that owners who comply pay the lower fees. (F) g. Evaluate inspection procedures and assignments to assure the best use of personnet to da the job most efficiently and effectively. Implemenf innovafive iabor saving proceda[es to - reduce the number of campliance rei�spections necessary to enforce tFe minimum property standards codes. (PH, Fj h. Cont'rnue proactive compliance e{forts and increase patrol and surveillance of problem areas to decrease the number of citizen comp[ainfs. (P, PH} q�-s�? 1996-1997 Activifies (cont.) i. Work to improve/redesign/streamline the Information Complaint Computer System to provide better information and facftitate intervdepartmental eommuRication on an address- based system. 1PH, HCn j. implement procedures which eliminate the necessity vf �epeatviolation notices oa ehe same properties for t(�e same nuisance violations wF�ich occur continuously. (PH} k. Work with Federal and State Representatives to identify and remedy the causes of buildirtg abando�ment and to reduce the amount of time a building in foreclosure remains vacant. (PH, PED) I. Enhance coordinated approach to addressing illegaf drug issues in neighborhoods. (P, F, PH) m. Implement "Crirne F�ee Multi-Hausing Program" which trains owners and managers of multi-unit buitdings, organizes tenants, and evaluates design for crime preverttion. (P) n. Continue to support training for housing court referees to maintain the effecfiveness of the housing Eourt system. (GAO? o. Monitor all Saint Paut properties for those who request more than 5 calls for police services within a 30 day period. Case manage those properties to reduce the need for police services and eliminate nuisance causes. (P) p. lmplement juvenile offender restorat+ve justice program in at least two Saint Paul neighborhoods. (P} q. Train law enforcement personnel, neighbors, and community organizations in reporting and removing graffiti. Track graffiti complaints and assist with gca{fiti removal incfuding 70 summary abatement actions. (P) c Conduct 180 premise surveys to implement crime prevention Yhrough environmental design. (P� s. Implement a citizen inspector program for Saint Paul ne+ghborhoods. (P, PH} t. Implement a fee for excessive calls for service fos exterior nuisance violatfons. (PH, CR�) Priority Action 4: /mprove Rental Housing Management Objectives Reduce the number of problem renta/ properties in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy for tfle 1990s: Objectives 5, 7 and 8) Increase the overall quality of rental housrng in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 5, 7 and 8) Reduce the negative effects of rental housing on neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 5, 7 and 8) Pub/ic Purpose and City Role The public has an interest in well-managed rental property that positively contributes to the stabilization of neighborhoods. Proactive property management training artd incentives can be more effective than compfiance actions after the problems occur. The City should provide education for both landlords and tenants to foster strong rental properties. 1 AC fiv lt ees ( see Appendi for Part arrd Pragrdms) a. Continue to monitor and support the work of the interagency Stabi{ization Gro�p. (HCT) 6. Improve coordination with tenant and tandlord groups to encourage tenant responsibility, appropriate behavior, and high quality rental hoasing. (� c. Wor[c with the Community Stabilization Project to provide positive reinforcement of responsibie tenants and property owners. (F, PH, & HLO} d. Carninue to work with and edueate landtords to previde qaality housiag and effecCive _ tenarrt screening. Frain 3Q0 property owners/managers on screerting teRartts and e�forcing _ behavior startdards in tt�eir teases.. Provide 500 criminal histories in support of tenant screening. (F, P, HIO) e. Utilize media resources and other citizen contact resources to educate property owners and obtain compliance for sirrtple code requirements such as house numbers, refuse removal and routine yard maintenance. (PH, HIO, FtCT} f. Continue to encourage owner-occupied 2-4 unit rental properties through owner- occupancy requirements in the Houses to Homes and other mortgage programs. (PED) g. Expand opportunities to provide torma! tenandlartdlord educatiott. (P, NIO) h. Through the Pofice DepartmenYs "Crime Free Mu�ti-Hausing Program" train rental properky owners and managers and organize 50 biock elubs in multi-unit buildings. (P} i. Work with housing management associations such as the St. Paul Association of Responsible Landlords, Minnesota Multi-Housing, and East Metro Managers Association to coordinate training and communication. {HIO, P) 9�-s�� 1946-i447 Activities (cont.) j. Support tegislative reautharization and implemec�tation oE the Homestead tax rate for wel!- managed smaU rental properties through the Rental Tax Equity Program. (PED, HIO, PH) k. Review applicant:s housing management experience and consider instituting training requirements for the receipt of City/HRA renta{ housing financing. (PE�) l. EHucate 400 tenan�s on their responsi�itities and motivate them to take an active ra#e in keeping fheir t�ome crime tree. (P) m. Distirbute crime prevention infarmaeion including b{oek cEub manuals, personal safety information, business safety seminars, home secority. (P� n. Work with owners to implemenf improvements recommended by crime prevention environmentai design surveys. (P} o. Provide one on o�e counseling i� effective property management and continue formaf education c�[asses through community adult education and dasses in Yt�e high scho�Es. iH107 Priority Action 5: Address Specia/ Housing Needs wifhin Sainf Paul's Population while Supporting Neighborhood Quality Objectives Provide housing which meets the needs of individuals with special requirements, eg. the elderly, handicapped and larger renter households. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objedives 12, 14, and 15; Consolidated P(an Submission) Provide the homeless with temporary shelter and services to enable them to acquire permanent housing. (Nousing Policy for the 1990s: Objeciive 12; Consolidated Plan Submission) Promote and support self-sufficiency as far as reasonably possible where special needs exist. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 12) Provide sufficient housing for low-income households while avoiding over-concentration of such housing in neig(�bor/�oods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obj. 15; Consofidated Plan Submission) Public Purpose and Cify Role Suitable and affordable housing is a critical ingredient for some populations to achieve self-sufficiency and thereby reduce overall poverty. The City works with private, non-profit and other public entities and the special populations to achieve a"continuum of care" approach including emergency, transitional and permanent housing and appropriate support services for these special popu/ations including the elderly, handicapped and homeless as we(! as large family households, and Iow income wage earners. These effons should be part of a broad range of community development actions including the reduction of overcrowding and over concentration of rental housing. 199fi-7997 Activities (see Appendices for Pannerships and Programs) a. Work with Ramsey County to provide additional housing services to meet the needs of specta( populations. (HFO) b. Corrtinue to provide effective response to homeless and emergency housing needs throogh the fotlowing programs: Relocation Assistance; Emergency Housing Requests, Utilit� Shutoffs, Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant. (HIO) c. Conti�ue to preserve and maintain existing publicly-owned low income housing. (PHA) d. Continue to emphasize conversion of smaller units and rehabilitation as a means ta create larger units for families where appropriate, (PHA, PED) e. Continue inter-agency and metro-wide collaboration to meet homeless and emergency needs. (HtO, PED, HC� f. Continue to implement measures to reduce concentrations of low-income housing wf�en appropriate. fPED, PHA) g. Continue to give priority to proposats for rehabilitation oi existing units over new development. (PED, PHA) h. Continue to refrain from construction of new rental multi-family low income housing units within the City of Saint PauL (PED, PHA) i[� q c -sa� Priority Artion 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regionai Basis Objectives Improve economic opportunity for (ower income households by providing housing in proximity to expanding %ob opportunities. (Nousing Policy for the 1990s: Objedives 2 and 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Councii Resolutions 95-132, 95-1171) Achieve broader sharing of responsibility for affordable housing among communities in Yhe region. (Housing Po(icy for the 1990s: Objectives 2 and 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-1171) Decrease, over time, the concentration of poverty found in inner-city neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-1171) Public Purpose and City Role The polarized regional housing market encourages disinvestment in inner city neigh6orhoods and isolates lower income households away from maior areas of iob growth. This polarization not only creates inadequate living environments for many people but a�so causes high and inequitabiy-distributed public costs. Government can influence this development pattern through incentives and regulations that determine the location of lower cost housing opportunities. 7he City should: support legislation which encourages development of low income housing in suburban areas; support regional efforts zo add�ess low income housing needs; and support Saint Pau� suburban efforts to provide affordable housing. 7996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Parmerships and ?ragrams) a. Support Saint Paul auburbdn 1ow incame housirtg deveiopment ihrough the Minnesata Livabie Camrnunities Act and oYher ac[ivifres. fPED, PHA) b. Support additiona{ legislative efforts to improve the distr{bution of low income housing opportunities ihroughout the region. (PED) c. Affirmatively further fair housing goals. (PHA, PED, Hf0) d. Continue to work with Anoka, Hennepin, Dakota and Ramsey Counties on the Available_ Housing Data Project to increase information on rental opportunities on a metro-wide basis. (HIO) e. In regionai efforts to expand housing opportunities, continue to address the importance of transpoitation and access to sociai seroices and jobs. (PED) f. Continue to support Metro HRA's "HomeChoice" housing mobility program, which hetps lower income families receiving Section 8 rent assistance move out of inner-city high poverty census tracts to lower poverty areas in the region. (PHA) 11 Priorify Action 7: Improve Intormation and Communication Objectives Provrde citizens with easy access to housing programs and services. (Nousing Poficy for the 1990s: Objective 3) Effectively use city resources to address housing issues. Public Purpose and City Role Saint Paul residents have e�cperienced difficu(ty in obtaining information about availabfe housing opportunities. Some programs and compliance requirements have application processes that are compfex and not easily accessible. Program effediveness wifl be improved if existing and potentia( Saint Paul residents are well informed and have an easily identifiable access point for information and applrcations. Housing resources will be used most effectively when ciry departments coordinate activities and provrde timely and accurate communicatron about housing complrance and programmatic issues. 1496-79g7 ACtivi#res (see Appendree� fo� Partnerships and Progra a. Add Z80 6(ock C{Ubs in 1996 to continue to improve commuaicafion between - enforcement agencies and neighborhoods. (P) b. Contin�e imptementation of the Nousing fnformation Office Outreach Pian. if c. To'tncrease aceessibiEity to housing services, provide Housing Information Office serv'rcas on-site at Fam[iy CectYers ae�d continue to prov�de ort-site services at. schoofs. {HfOT d. Continue Hoersing Goordination Team work as a means to efFicie�t}y coord"rnete city_ _' . housing serv+ces, to improve comrrtunicatian ovRth th2 City Co�RCiI and to cotlaborate urith- non-city agencies. fHGT, PED} e. Continae to expiore opportunities to simplify access and applicatiorrs for housing services. (PEd, HId7 f. Continue to identify new steps to ensure broad awareness of housing services and resources available to Saint Paut residents through development of a hausing communication p{an. (HIO, PED) g. Contioue to provide facts and analysis as required for accuraYe characterrzation of housiog needs and supp(y. (PEDj h_ At�end neighborf�ood f�ausing fairs. (HIO, PED} i. Explore ways to update the i988 Housing Conditions Sarvey with availabte staff resources: (PED) 12 �i�•sa? Priority Action 8: Support Strategic Neighborhood Improvement Objectives � Use resources available for neighborhood improvement effective(y. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objedrves 1, 2, 6, 9, 10, and 11) Ensure neighborhood-levef and b�oad public commitment to improvement decisions. Public Purpose and City Ro% One key thrust of Saint Paul's housing policy is to ensure that each neighborhood fares well in the housing market for the range of households to which it is most suited. Adequate maintenance and quality in the built environment is necessary in any neighborhood for this objective to be reached. City government plays a key role in 7) technical assistance and financing for rehabilitation work that the private market does not fully support; 2) public improvements; and 3) planning and integration of neighborhood-based and city-wide interests and objectives. 1996-t997 Activlties (see Appendices for Partners6ips and Ptograms) a. Continue to improve �eighborhoods by wocking closely with neigh6orhood groups and businesses, particularly those that are effecfed by problem properties. (PED, F, PH, Pl b. Support efforts of STAR program paRicipants to coordinate revitalizat+on efforts, (PEDj c. Update the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990's in response to the 1995 amendments to the Metropoli[an Land Planning Act, tfie Community Development Agenda and recent concerns regarding housing policy. (PED) d. Continue to use neighborhood planning and cooperative wark with neighborfiood arganizattons effectively Yo promote reinvesYmenC and cpmmunity healCh {pED) e. Continue Yo work with business graups, community deve{opmenY eorporations, district councils and other neighborhood associations fo implement neighborhood and city-wide strategies for improvement resu�ting from the Community Development Agenda. (PEd) f. Support housing solutions that are part of integrated community improvement in major targeted planning study areas such as the Riverfront and Phalen Corridor. (PED) g. Continue to support the housing revitalization efforts of neighborhood-based organizations through the Capital improvement Budgets when such efforts meet the criteria established in the Capital Allocation Policy. (PED) h. Encourage and support implementation of housing strategies;7den'tified through Small Area Plans incEuding: (PED} RaiEcoad Island: encourage hnmeownersh+p; support rehab effasts; create buffer zane Phalen Viflage: encourage redevelopme�t of Lakewood and Maywood Apartments BrewerylRan-View: encourage redevelopment of Familystyle homes and Koch/Mobil site Thomas-da4e: support loca4 efforts for a block-by-b4ock renewa! campaign East Consotidated: support local efforts for a block-by-block renewal campaign Lower Dayton's Bfuff: support 11RAP efforts for rehab and new construction 13 �G-s�� 94-95 Accomp/ishments The following table quickly summarizes the efforts of several housing programs since 1991. Specific accomplishments for 19941995 follow, organized accosding Yo priority action as they appeared in the 1494-7995 HousingAction Program. Program 1991 7992 1993 1994 1995 Total Oixnership = _: Mortgage �oans (Mpls/SP First Time 85 183 78 160 266 772 Home Buyers, Mid. Inc., and Take Credit Hauses to li4rrties Tota) , 204 --- 407 A32 - .382 405 _. 1836 Rahabbed . .. - . <. 46 '' '32 -.s.. 35- °- 68 ` S7 232 Demolisfied =43 64 .- `75 63 98 ` 341 Reoccupied 121 �11 322 230 236 1220 1�611 New Const n/a nfa nfa 21 16 37 PHA HOME Program (families) 13 15 30 34 gz PHA HOMEWARD Prqgram 35 sites 35 sites Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention 524 761 766 660 592 3303 (households) Rehabilifation Owner-Occupied units 377 275 278 280 214 1444 RantaE anits �14Q 78 102 203 f56 649 Enforcement Housing Inspections: Gert. o( E.�ccupancy 7,i39 7,941 , 7,089 6,829 8,Q39 37,037 Respanses to complai�ts Z�,S99 �5,035 13.703 �&,081 15,696 81,214 7otal inspections. 43,5t7 43,980 33,769 47,112 46,320 214,698 Educational Program attendance 83,359 83,799 50,034 80,108 80,620 327,300 Block Clubs 240 233 293 278 230 1,423 Lead testing of chifdren <6 years old 3,205 3,114 3,504 3,309 1642' 13,932 Rental Assistanae PHA Sect. 8 certificates/vouchers 86 added 62 added 10D added 70 added 50 added 3,055 PHA Scattered Sife acquisition 45 added 25 added 1 added 0� O 447 H10 Housing Counseling Contacts 22,568 26,119 21,617 23,920 19,134 113,358 Emergency Shetter G€ant5 $166,00� $18�S,Q00 $107,�00 $253,000 $344,OQ0 $1,035,OOQ Rental Tax Equity Piiot Program n/a n/a n/a 433 374 807 I Due to changes in medical assistancelmanaged care reimbursement strategies, population screened has become more select. Z See HOMEWARD above. 15 1. Continue home ownership incentives. ■ PED Mortgage loan programs provided financing to 160 individuafs and families in 1994 and 266 in 7995 through the Minneapolis/Saint Paul First Time Home Buyers, the Middle-Income Housing Fund, and the Take Credit! programs. ■$200,Q00 was allocated to the Houses to Homes program to fund conversion of rentat single family and duplex units to owner-occupied units. ■ Twenty-one single famify units were built as infill construdion through PED's Houses to Homes Program i� 1994. Sixteen additional units were built in 1995. ■ Phase 11 of the Middle Income Housing Fund was launched with the sate of $30 miilion in bonds in 1995. This program will provide additional funding for households with annual incomes up to $89,250. ■ 44 low income families purchased homes through the Pu61ic Housing Agency's (PHA} HOME programs, moving out of public housing or Section 8 rent-assisted apartments. HOME also provided home ownership counseling to 180 fami(ies during the two years. ■ Another 35 rent-to-own opportunities, in newly rehabilitated scattered site homes, were created for �ublic housing residents through the PHA's HOMEWARD program. At the end of 1995 eligible �amilies were moving into the last of the homes,, which they will be purcfiasing over the next five years. � � � ■ Through the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program, the Housing Information Office helped home owners who are in danger of tosing their homes througfi foreclosure. In .1994 and 1995 HIO assisted 525 Saint Paul home owners and provided $199,983 in loans to reinstate mortgages. Another 463 homeowners received foreclosure counseling under the HUD assignment programs or basic counseling. ■ 860 individuals received Homebuying/Financing Information, through the Housing information Office, of which 316 received intensive counseling. 2. Continue owner and rental rebab financing. ■ 494 ownervoccupied units and 359 rental units were rehabbed through PED programs. ■ The Fiouses to Homes prograrn treated a total of 787 vacant housing units in 7994 and 7995. r Five, loans totaling over $27,000 were provided to child care facilities in 1994. An additional $10,000 Was loaned to a single facility in 7995. ■ Work began on the Housing Information O�ce's 1996 Outreach Pfan which is an effort to simplify access to Saint Paul housing programs. ■ The Housing Information Office has been identified as the central point for residents to access information regarding Saint PauPs housing programs. The HIO office was identified as the main contact point in the 1995 Saint Paul ResidenTs Gv�de. 16 � R�-s�7 r The Housing Division began efforts to formulate a consolidated loan application whereby residents could appfy for multiple programs through a single application. This effort will continue into '96-'47. ■ The Housing Infiormation Office responded to 182 requests for information on home improvement loans and deferred grants through the City, State and private sector. ■ Tfie PHA substantial4y rehabilitated 17 of the 35 homes purchased in tfie HOMEWARD program at a cost of over $25,000, with some help from City CDBG funds. Twenty of the HOMEWARD homes had been vacant due to mortgage foreclosures; sixteen of those were vacant "HUD homes." Within five years these homes wi41 be owner-occupied. ■ PED's Housing Division began a realtor outreach program to encourage use of purchase/rehab loans. 3. Provide effective enforcement to reduce the negative conditions of rentai housing. ■ All city age�cies engaged in housing a�d regulatory activities including Public Health Fire, Police and the City Attorney's office coordinated inter-departmental responses to problem properties through the Mayor's Informationai Exchange Group. 7his group has worked with District Councils, neighborhood groups and TenanULandiord organizations to identify and resolve local probiem properties. ■ Relief for well-managed properties was provided through the Rental Tax Equity Program for one and two unit non-homesteaded residential buildings. HIO administered the pilot project whose purpose was to stabilize costs for conscientious landlords. The Program was intended to offer an incentive to fandlords to improve their tenant-occupied property. 374 rental properties received the tax credit total amount spent on repairs -$332,500. ■ Owners of well-managed multi-unit buildings wil! be granted some relief through proposed revisions to the Legislative Fee structure for Certificates of Occupancy. Under the revisions, owners would receive a 25% discount on the C of O fee if the property owner assures compliance prior to the first renewal inspection. Fees were further revised to include a$50 reinspection fee for complaints (after the first reinspection), and there is a 50°Jo reinspection fee assessed after the first'reinspection. ■ The City Attorney's office in conjunction with the Fire Department and Public Health provided a seminar to housing court referees a6out housing court issues. ■ Nousing court referees, the City Attorney`s office and the Fire Department coordinated efforts focussed on increasing effectiveness of tag writing and methods of gaining compliance. ■ Housing court referees indicated some interest in the use of mandatory education for landlords/land owners convicted of housing violations and in providing information packets on city housing programs to those appearing in housing court. Additional work would be needed to implement either idea. ■ FORCE, a community policing effort, continued to address problem properties in neighborhoods. FORCE addressed over 2000 problem property complaints in 1994 and 1995. FORCE provides crime prevention information, community organizing, housing inspections, and law enforcement as tools to address neighborhood concerns. 17 . ■ 278 block clubs were added during 1994 totailing t 193 adive block ciu6s throughout Saint Paui. An additional 230 block clubs were formed in 1995. ■ Owners with economic Iimitations continue to be referred to PED for loa� and grant information to help them achieve code compliance. ■ Pubiic Heaith met with the Saint Paul Association of Responsible Landlords and presented tenant responsibilities as outlined in the City Ordinance. ■ Housing inspectors were encouraged and instructed to cite irresponsible tenants when tenant behavior is obviously causing the housing prob(em. ■ The Fire Department expanded the use of Public Educatio� to target high risk populations in multi- unit compfexes and educate the juvenile population in these comp(exes through fire safety fairs. r The Fire Department with coordination assistance from the Housing lnformatio� Office increased involvement of sociai service agencies in resolving people problems in properties. Adult and Child Protection Workers, the Community Stabilization Project, and the Tenants Union were actively involved in providing assistance to tenants. ■ The Fire Department, Police, and Pubfic Heafth worked with tf�e Safe Cities Committee to organize and assist in downtown sweeps and audits and initiatives in neighborhoods. ■ Pubfic Heafth's Vacant Buildings Monitoring and Demolition Program continues to successfuliy address the issues and problems associated with vacant, boarded and abandoned properties. In 1995, the City Council designated additional funding of $500,000 to be used for the demolition of commercia( and industriai vacanf buildings. The length of time a building sits vacant and boarded has been dramaticaliy reduced to an average of two years, compared with a five year average in 1990. ■ In 1994, the Mayor and the City Council approved Case Management of problem properties as a proactive approach in addressing properties generating multiple and repeat complaints. Numerous long standing problems have been rectified and the number of problem properties is being reduced through the efforts of this program and the improved coordination with other agencies and resources. ■ More than 30,OOQ citizen complaints were processed in 1994 and 1995 through Flousing Code Enforcement. In 1995, the City Council endorsed efforts to step up enforcement on properties whicfi have received prior notices of nuisance violations. This effort is proving successful at eliminating repeat abatements. ■ The Pubiic Heaith and Police Departmertts continued to improve coordination of enforcement activities on properties that are deteriorated, unsanitary or un'safe and where criminal behauior is evident. These programs also coordinate enforcement adivities with the Mayor's Safe City Initiative. ■' In September 1995 the PHA requested HUD approval to adopt the City Codes' fire safety, building and health standards as the inspection standard tor the Section 8 rent subsidy program, replacing the HUD housing quality standards previously used. The PFIA also proposed eliminating its separate inspections of Section 8-su6sidized units in multi-family apartment buifd"mgs, relying instead on the City's Certificate of Occupancy inspection system. These actions to {educe overlapping inspections and separate standards responded to recammendations by City Council Members, representatives of property owners' and tenants' associations and City staff. PHA staff deveioped the proposal in 18 �G•sz? collaboration with staff from the Fire Department and the Public Health/Code Enforcement program. HUD approval was pending at tfie end of 1995. ■ In 1995, the City Council passed an ordinance affowing the police to bill responsible persons for costs of providing police services in response to nuisance events when the property has had more than 5 such events in a 30 day period. ■ The Police improved direct communication with Safe Cities staff to respond quickiy and appropriately to probtems identified in Safe Cities audits. ■ The FORCE Housing Code Enforcement Officer completed 650 cases in 1994 and 1995. ■ Crime prevention officers completed 475 premise surveys of both residentiai and commercial property to make recommendations in improving the structure and Iandscape according to Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principies. 4. /mprove rentai housing managemeot. ■ HIO administered the Sai�t Paul Rental Tax Equity pilot project. (See above) ■ TenandLandlord education programs continued to be taught by the Fire Dept and the Housing Information Office through the Saint Paul Community Education program and to community and neighborhood groups. HIO provided information on the responsibilities as wel! as rights of both tenants and landlords to 4030 individuals in 1994 and 1995. ■ The Police Department and FORCE unit assisted many landlords in obtaining information for tenant screening and improving their screening processes. Public Health, as well, encouraged property owners to utilize good screening techniques in selecting their tenants. ■ The Poiice DepartmenYs FORCE unit began a new program entitled the Minnesota Crime Free Multi- Housing Program to address crime in apartment complexes through management training, tenant training and involvement, and security assessments. The copyrighted program has proven successfu! in 29 states. Through the Minnesota Crime-Free Mu{ti-Housing Program, the Police Department encouraged property managers to assess security measures such as locks, lights, windows and shrubbery and make improvements where necessary to create a safer living environment. The Fire Department continues to enforce security requirements in multi-unit buildings and covers security as well as fire safety in their education effort. Efforts to inventory existing opportunities for rental housing management training and recommendations for improvements to available training opportunities were turned over to the Interagency Stabilization Group, whose membership includes staff inembers of PED, the Minneapolis Community Development Agency, the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and the Family Housing Fund. Ann Norton is acting as the consultant to this group which has produced some -- recommendations regarding the improvement of rental management training. ■ In addition to financiaf information, rental property owners are now required to submit a Property Management Plan when applying for Rentai Rehab Loans. The plan is used to assess the owner's experience in managing rental property and is given equal weight along with the financial statement 19 in underwriting decisions. in addition, Property Management Manuals containing information on both property maintenance and dealing with tenants is given to aIl loan recipients. 5. Support the low density character of neighborhoods. ■ No new rental multi-family units were construcYed in 1994 or 1995. ■ The Public Housing Agency assisted in converting three former duplexes to single family home through its HOMEWARD acquisition/rehabilitation/homeownership program. ■ The Public Housing Agency emphasized conversion of smaller units to meet demand for large units Yhrough conversion of three duplexes to single family homes through its HOMEWARD acquisition/rehabilitation/homeownerstiip program. ■ Tfirough the Houses to Homes program, 28 vacant multi-family structures were converted to 24 single-family homes and 4 owner-occupied duplexes in 1994 and 1995. ■ PED's Ramsey Hilt Renovation Project wil! convert 99 efficiency and one-bedroom units located in six buifdings on Marshall and Dayton Avenue to 56 two-bedroom units. This project will continue into 1996. 6. Address specia/ needs witbin Saint Pau/'s population. ■ The PHA continued its efforts to maintain existing low income housing through major renovation of Mt. Airy Homes. The total rehab project will cost about $15.6 mitiion (ail HUD funds) and require four years to complete. ■ 7he $3.4 million dollar renovat+on of the PHA's Ravoux Hi-Rise (220 unitsl was completed in 1995. ■ PED's Ramsey Hill Renovation Project will'convert 99 efficiency and one-6edroom units located in six buildings on Marshall and Dayton Avenue to 56 twabedroom units. This project will continue into i996. ■ City agencies continued to coilaborate in an effort to provide effective response to homeless and emergertcy housing needs through the following programs managed by the Housing lnformaYion Office: Relocation Assistance: Services are provided to households that have been,displaced because of code condemrtation. Assistance in locating housing and connecting with needed social services are the major components of this program which served 7016 households in 1494 and 1995. Emergency Housing Requests: Homeless individuals and families are connected to the shelter system. Assista�ce in obtaining emergency financial resources, social services and permanent housing was provided to 333 individuals and families in 1994 and 1995. Utility Shutoffs: HIO staff assist individuals in using the Repair and Deduct Ordinance, works with NSP and the Water Department to negotiate re-payment plans and helps in locating emergency funding sources to prevent a shutoff or reinstate a utility. 87 households were assisted in 1494 and �, . 1995. �� -537 McKinney Homeless Housing Stabilization: HIO staff assisted homeless families and individuals find permanent housing and stabilize their (iving situation. 700 families and individuats were assisted in 1494 and 1995. Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Sheiter Grant: Staffed by HIO, this board monitored the use of emergency shelter in the City of Saint Paul and made recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on issues related to homelessness. In addition, HIO administered $253,000 in Emergency Sheiter Grant funds to nineteen programs that provide services to the homeless. ■ Counseling and infiormation on both market rate and subsidized housing programs was provided by the Housing Information Office to 4770 households seeking adequate affordable housing in 1994 and 1995. In addition, market rate lists of rental housing were available and a network with some private property owners has been developed. Two phones were provided for client use within the office. 7. Meet housing needs on a regiona/ basis. ■ The City of Saint Paul supported the Min�esota Livable Communities Act passed by the State Legisiature in 7995. The Act provides incentives for ali metro area communities to meet low income housing goals. The Minnesota Livable Communities Act included funding for the Livable Communities Demonstration Account to encourage communities to think creatively about the needed connections between transpoRation, access to social services a�d jobs i� regional efforts to expand housing opportunities. ■ In an effort to encourage development of low income housing opportunities in suburban Saint Paul communities, the PHA invited suburban HRAs to collaborate with them in providing additional low income housing outside of St. Paul. Washington County and the PHA prepared a joint development application to HUD, requesting funds for scattered site public housing rentallhomeownership units to be acquired in Washington County. Unfortunately, Congress rescinded the HUD development funds just before the application was to be submitted. ■ Saint Paul has also encouraged the efforts of the Family Housing Fund to fund affordable housing in suburban areas with links to transportation and job opportunities. 8. lmprove information and communication. The information Exchange Group has provided a forum for Council mem6ers and District Counci(s to voice concerns over problem properties. In turn, the Information Exchange Group has made a commitment to keeping them informed on issues raised in the Group. PED's Pianning Division provided housing facts and data analysis to support the development and implementation of the Consolidated Plan (HUD), the Minnesota Communiry Rehab tnitiative (Ch. 224, Senate File 1670), the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, and other housing programs within PED. ■ In an effort to improve the consistency, accuracy, and helpfulness of the message city employees give about residential opportunity in Saint Paul, the Fire Department has scheduled a basic and follow-up communication workshop through the Total Qualiiy Improvement program. 21 ■ The Housing Coordination Team has continued Lo coordinate city housing efforts and collaborate with non-ciry agencies in an effort to resotve housing problems and to provide better housing services to Saint Paul residents. Specia( efforts during 1994 and 1995 inctude revision of PHA inspection standards and provision of comprehensive housing information through the Saint Paul ResidenYs Guide. ■ To increase accessibility, the H(O began to look at different opportunities for providing services. (n cooperation with the Saint Paul public schooJs, the office began providing on-site counseling services at four elementary schoals on the East Side. Thus far, there has been a positive reaction from school personnel, parents, and community groups. ■ 860 individuals received Homebuying(Financing Information through the Housing Information Office. Topics included rypes of mortgage financing, how to buy a home including associated costs and responsibilities related to upkeep and maintenance. NIO also pr�quali�ed potential home buyers for the City of Saint PauPs special home buying programs. ■ The Housing tnformation Office assisted 348 residents in 1994 and 1995 obtain an inspedion for code violations and, in some cases, provided fo!!ow-up to assure that the situation was remedied. Education on the process and rights associated with housing code enforcement was also provided. ■ Improvements in the 1995 Saint Paul ResidenYs Guide provided comprehensive information' regarding city housing programs and current contacts for information regarding these programs. ■ To ensure broad awareness of housing services and resources avai�able to residents, information on Saint Paul's housing programs has been provided through the ResidenYs Guide, through the City Source cable N program, and through neighborhood housing fairs. ■ The Housing Information O�ce has been identified as the singte contact point for residents wanting to learn more about Saint Paul's housing programs. Residents have been encouraged to contact the Housing Information Office in al) communications regarding housing programs. 9. Support strategic neighborhood improvemenf. ■ Over $1 million in residential rehabilitation funds were awarded to community groups through the first cyc(e of the STAR program. The funds wilt be used to implement smalf area plans, to provide financing for low- and middle-income buyers, to improve housing occupied by seniors with Iimited incomes, and to rehabilitate vacant housing. An additionaf $2J million was awarded for other commurtity development projects. ■ The Planni�g Division coordinated the Community Development Agenda effort wfiich ehatlenged businesses, non-profits and neighborhood groups to cooperate in efforts to improve quality of life, promote economic development and reduce poveity for Saint Paul residenYS. The draft Community Development Agenda will be compieted in the fail of 1995. ■ The Phalen Corridor Initiative was started in 1994 as a community partnership of businesses and community groups to attract new businesses and retain existing businesses, to prepare East Side workers for new jobs and new technotogies, to improve access fram the tnterstate Ffighway to , industrial sites, and to continue and grow community partnerships. While the tasks are `ariented towards economic development, the ukimate objective is to produce a stronger community and 22 �l�•S1? improve the quality of life for East Side residents. PED is coordinating this effort. 70. Other accomp/ishments: ■ Saint Paul continues its leadership role in the elimination of environmental lead hazards which affect pre-school age children. Pubfic Health provides blood testing, screening, monitoring and education to parent of small childsen. {n 1995, the Code Enforcement Program received a 1.8 mitiion doilar HUD grant to continue these efforts and to provide research and abatement data to HUD. Incidenta! to receiving this grant, one inspector was transferred to Public Health from the LIEP office to enforce state mandated lead standards in residential buildings. ■ Public Health continued to administer the Truth-in-Sale of Housing disclosure report program for al{ single family and duplex homes offered for sale. This report provides basic information to home buyers and seilers. In 1994 and 1995, there were 9326 evaluations performed and only twelve complaints were filed against the evaluators. ■ Public Health also administered the Summary Abatement Program which designates funds to pay for the elimination of public health and public safety nuisances from private property. Abatement work is usually completed by the Parks and Recreation Department, the Police Department, the Thomas- Dale Block Club Association (weed and grass cutting) and private contractors. ■ The Housing Information Office provided information and education on general housing questions or concerns and social service referrals to 2521 individuals in 1994 and 1995. Examples of information covered include zoning questions, human rights issues, public assistance information, and child protection programs. ■ The PHA has implemented new marketing approaches to increase the racial diversity in the PHA's sixteen hi-rises for elderly, disabled and single people. The PHA has continued its "Commitment to Diversity" program in the hi-rises to increase residents' acceptance of individuals' differences. 23 . Appendix A: Public and Private Partners Organization Saint Paul Public Housing Agency (PHA) Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC� Family Housing Fund (FHF) Fannie Mae Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Minneapolis Community Development Agency St Paul Coalition for Community Development Home Ownership Center Northwest Area Foundation Habitat for Humanity Private lending Institutions/mortgage insurers Dept. of Housing and Urban Development Wilder Foundation District Councils Neighborhood Block Clubs Community Stabilization Project TenanYs Union and othertenantorganizations Saint Pauf Association ot Responsible Landlords and otherlandlord organizations Saint Paul Community Education Program Interagency Stabilization Group Metropolitan Counci! St. Paul/Ramsey Co. Homeless Task Force Overnight Shelter Board Corporation for Supportive Housing fJnited Way Metro Area Commun Saint Paul Public Schools Saint Paul Association of Realtors Communitv business or¢anizations R�• � ..C� .p` i� � �. �4 x�� p� e & ti�' �r °i � �,+' ��0 Q ��,�o a y o c� b y � ,r� a �,�3 � �' °� ° F �c' �� $° �� '.a� °F eep C'`o o �- GG ��T' S 2 �� ..cL 2.F Action Action AQion Action Action AcYion ARion Adion i• 2 3 A 5 6 7 S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ■ � e . . . . . . . . � i t . . � . . 25 u 'S� yC�a' 'pC � C <' r¢ � ac � � �� ` � ` ��j Appendix B: Resources and Programs �' c �� a�'� c� r'� q � o�o� 3 F� ��`° �Z' � �� - G G �°� � 5�? @ �`� �c G 2� �F Pfogram Action Attion Ac[ion Ac[ion Attion Action Ac2"�on Ac[ion T. Z 3 ' 4 5 6 7 8 PED Home Loan Fund • Mpls/St Paul Famity Mortgage Program- • • Phase X(First Time Home Buyers) Middle Income Nousing Program • Take Credit! • PHA HOME Program • PHA HOMEWARD Program • Saint Paul Homestead Program • Replacement Singie Family New Construction • Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance • Housing Counseling and Information • Houses to Homes • Special Assistance Monies • Home Ownership Counseiing • Single Family Nome Improvement Loans Rental Rehabilitation Loan Program Child Care Faci�ities Rehab Loans Low Income Housing Tax Credit FHF Rehabilitation Participation loans Targeted Communiry Rehab Fund Program . . . . FORCE Program V aca n t Building Monit Program Targeted Code Enforcement Block Club Program Housing Code' Compliance Lead Paint Abatement Certiticate of Occupancy Rental Tax Equity Program Safe Cities tnitiative Minnesota Gime Free Multi-Housing Program . . . . . •. . 26 , Resources and Programs (cont.T Program Tenant/Landiord Education Programs Building Better Communities Awards Program for Rental Housing Metropolitan Livable Communities Accounts Community Development Block Grants Relocation Assistance Emergency Housing Requests Utility Shutoff Assistance Emergency Shelter Grants Rental Opportunfty Information Human Resources and Job Program Referrals "HomeChoice" family Housing Fund Suburban Initiative Minnesota Economic Vitality and Housing Initiative Saint Paul Residents' Guide City Source Cabfe N Program Housing Fairs Saint Paul/Minneapolis Home Tour Sales Tax Revitalizatio� Program (STAR) Small Area Plans Targeted planning study areas (Phalen Corridor, Riverfront) , � 9 �"�37 �cQ' e�� c E o � C e�� m� � c .. F� c °'`' °f�a Q �a �,�� a., o c'�D y .e�j , `Z'od �� C,o �� co �� 4 � �c� AC[ion Attion Action Aaion Attion Ac[ion A 7 z 3 4 5 6 ction Attion , � a . . . . . . . . . . 27 m � SAINT PAUL HOUSING POLICY FOR THE I990'S q� l�`� HOUSING ACTIONPROGRAM 1996-1997 � CTTY OF SAIN't' PAUL Norm Coleman, Mayor '�' Saint Paul Department of Planning and Economic Development {�J Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety Services Saint Paul Housing Information O�ce Saint Paul Police Department • Saint Paul Public HealYh Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Saint Paut City Attomey's Office � �.� Credits Housing Coordination Team Gary Peltier, Housing Division, PED, Chair Ken Ford, Planning Division, PED Lt. Dick Gardell, Saint Paul Police Department Jon Gutzmann, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Ai Hester, Saint Paul Public Housing Agency Neal Holtan, Saint Paul Public Health Pam Hutton, City Attorney's Office Chris Krueger, Citizen Service Office Chris Lukesh, Housing Information Office Fred Owusu, Citizen Service Office Charles Votel, Saint Paul Public Health Steve Zaccard, Saint Paul Department of fire and Safety Services Administration and Project Staff larry Buegler, PED Director Ken Ford, Planning Administrator, PED Beth Bartz, Planning Division, PED Katy Lindblad, Housing Division, PED Sue Hurley, Director's Office, PED Joan Hagen-Chin, Graphics, PED PED Print Shop • Tf�e City of Saint Pau( does not discriminate on tf�e basis of disa6ility, race, sex, sexual or affectional orientation, age, color, creed, national origfn or ancestry, marital status, religion, veteran status, or status with regard to public assistance in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, i[s programs or adivities. �J 0 "t� � 5�� Table ot Contents � /nfroduction 3 Priority Acfions Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownership incentives 4 Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Rental Rehab Financing 5 Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rentaf Housing 6 Priority Action 4: Improve Rental Housing Management 8 Priority Action 5: Address Special Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Population while Supporting Neighborhood Quality 10 � Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regional Basis 11 Priority Action 7: Improve Information and Communication 12 Priority Action 8: Support Strategic Neighborhood Improvement 13 1994-1995 Accomplishments 15 Appendix A: Pub(ic, Private and Non-Profit Partnerships 25 Appendix 8: Resources and Programs � 26 1 ql� -�``�1 List of Abbreviafions The following abbreviations are used throughout this document: CAO CDBG HCT HIO HRA HUD LIEP P PED PH PNA STAR Saint Paul City Attorney's Office Community Development Block Grants (federal) Saint Paul Department of Fire and Safety Services Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team Saint Paul Housing Information Office Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority Department of Housing and Urban Deveiopment (federal) Saint Paul Department of License, Inspections and Environmental Protectio� Saint Paul Police Department Saint Paul Department of Planning and Economic Development Saint Paul Pubfic Health Saint Paul Public Housing Authority Saint Paul Neighborhood Sales Tax Revitalization Program � �� `l�' "�J� `� • lntroduction The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program presents the housing activities proposed by City departments in coordination with many public and private partners for the next two years. Since the adoption of the Saint Paul Housing Policy for the 1990s, annual or biennial Housing Action Programs have been prepared to ensure continuing review and implementation of the policies adopted in the plan. This Housing Action Program follows those policies and acknowledges recent housing policy and program initiatives and discussions: the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, the Minnesota Community Rehab Initiative, the Community Development Agenda, and evaluation of the Houses to Homes Program. The 1996-1997 Hausing Action Program will also serve as Saint Paul's action plan required by the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act. In that capacity, it will be submitted to the Metropolitan Council to document the City's intended actions to carry out its agreed upon housing goals. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program is divided into two sections: Priority Actions and Accomplishments. The Priority Actions, developed for the 1994-1995 Housing Action Plan, remain relevant and were used to organize the 1996-1997 action steps as well as other information about Saint Paul's housing services. (Note: The Priority Actions are not intended to be a comprehensive list of City housing activities. Many ongoing housing related activities such as routine code inspections and energy loans are not highlighted due to their large volume.) The Accomplishments section reports alf City departments' housing services accomplishments over � the past two years. These include: • assisting 495 households purchase a home • providing financial assistance for the rehab of 978 housing units • addressing 787 vacant houses • performing 93,432 housing inspections • providing 43,054 individuals with information about Saint Paul housing programs and opportunities The two appendices list the City's public and private partners and City housing programs and their involvement in the Priority Actions. The Saint Paul Housing Coordination Team, established in 1991 to ensure communication among city agencies, produced the 1996-1997 Housing Action Program with generous input form the City Council Community and Economic Development Committee. The Housing Coordination Team, comprised of key directors from the Housing and Planning Divisions of the Department of Planning and Economic Development (PED), the Division of Public Health, the Public Housing Agency, the Housing Information Office, the Citizen Service Office, the Police Department, and the Department of Fire and Safety Services, meets regularly to review and coordinate housing-related activities. The 1996-1997 Housing Action Program must be approved by Mayor Norm Coleman and the Saint Paul City Council. � h[c�"�� Priority Action 1: Continue Home Ownership Incentives • Objectives Encourage residents to invest in their community through home purchase. Promote ownership solutions where appropriate for lower-income residents. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 73) Increase levels of owner-occupancy. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 4; Capital Allocation Policy: 1996-2000. 3.2.1, E-7, p.22) Public Purpose and City Role Mortgage lending should be done in Saint Paul primarily 6y the private sector. When community reinvestment priorities exist, special private lender initiatives should be encouraged. However, when there are special needs important to the City's objective for stable neighborhoods and adequate housing for residents, the government should sponsor tending programs. Experience shows that sound lending through a public program can effectively meet some critical needs not adequatefy addressed by the private sector. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to provide financing for homebuyers of a wide range of incomes through the Middle Income Housing Fund and the Minneapolis/Saint Paul First Time Home Buyers and Take Credit! programs. Estimate 245 mortgages per year. (PED) b. Continue to provide Family Housing Fund special assistance loans to low-to-moderate • income families to enable them to purchase homes. Estimate assistance to 50 families each year. (PED) c. Enable 30 additional low income families (15 each year) to purchase homes and move out of public housing or Section 8 rent-assisted apartments, through the PHA HOME program. (PHA) d. Continue to assist the 35 low income former public housing and Section 8 renter households in the PHA's HOMEWARD rent to awn program, as they work toward fuli homeownership. (PHA) e. Continue efforts to retain homeowners in danger of foreclosure through the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance program. Est�mate 400-500 househotds in i996-i997. (HIO) f. Continue to provide Homebuying and Finance fnformation throug[� the. ,Housing Information Office. Estimate 700-800 inquiries in 1996-1997. (HIO) g. Continue to provide financiai support to tE�e Home Ownership Center to continue city- wide home ownership counseling, whicfi prov[des assistance to approximate[y 600 5aint Paui home 6uyers each year. (PED� • G! �(� - �. l � � Priority Action 2: Continue Owner and Renfal Rehab Financing Objectives Supplement the private lending and construdion industries to improve existing city housing stock. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 5, 6, and 9) Enhance the qualitres and features that distinguish Saint Paul's neighborhoods and make them desirable places to live. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 6, and 9) Public Purpose and City Role The age of Saint Paul's housing stock requires considerable rehabilitation and upgrading on a continuous basis. for a variety of reasons including risk, technical assistance required, small size of loans, and inadequate home owner incomes, private lenders have traditionally avoided making many home rehabilitation loans. Therefore, the City has established a substantial public role in helping to meet this need. The City will maintain this role as available resources allow and support efforts to increase private sector lending in this area. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to provide singte family home improvement loan programs to address maintenance and updating needs that would otherwise be deferred. Estimate 280 units addressed per year. (PED) b. Originate purchase/refinance and rehab loans for first-time home buyers and existing home owners for a broad range of incomes. Estimate 40 loans per year. (PED) c. Originate gap financing loans to enable eligible homeowners to purchase and rehab or refinance and rehab homes where the cost of rehab exceeds the increased market value of the project. Estimate 25 loans per year. (PED) d. Address vacant single-family and duplex structures in need of rehabilitation through the Houses to Homes pro�ram. Estimate SO-60 rehabs, 60-80 demolitions, and 20 units of infill new construction each yeac (PED) e. Continue to provide rehabilitation loans for child care facilities including single-family homes. (PED) f. Continue to provide loans, where appropriate, for the rehabilitation of rental structures. Estimate 250 units addressed per year. (PED) g. Through HIO counseling, provide information on rehabilitation programs available through city, state, and private funding sources. (HIO) h. Continue to provide funding to resolve critical rehabilitation issues as necessary to supplement other programs as part of the Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program. (HIO} . �I� "�� Priority Action 3: Encourage Code Compliance to Reduce the Negative Conditions of Rental Housing � Ohjectives Ensure safe and well-maintained property for all residents. (Housing Policy for The 1990s: Objectives 1, 5, and 8 Eliminate behavior that detracts from the community. (Housing Poficy for the 7990s: Objective 7} Protect city housing stock and property values. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, 5) Public Purpose and Cify Rofe The City's primary mechanism for ensuring health and safety for all citizens is to encourage compliance with established building codes. Experience shows that compliance can be improved rhrough partnerships with neighborhoods and community groups as well as effective citations and housing court actions. Code compliance programs also focus efforts on elimination of chronic problem properties and urban blighi. Responding to acute complaints while addressing chronic problems wil� continue to be a maior theme for code compliance. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Define stronger methods to identify problems and resolve them before they become a drain on City resources and the neighborhood. (F, P, PH, HIO) b. Increase involvement of the Fire Department's Public Educator to help identify high risk • population and develop safety education initiatives for youths in troubled areas. (F) c. Strengthen inter-department communication and work toward a more coordinated effort to deal with the city's problem properties. (F, P, PH, HIO, CAO) d. The FORCE unit will work with District Councifs to enhance public safety through the Safe City Initiative. (P) e. Expand communication with block clubs and neighborhood groups to identify problems and educate them in methods to proactively work against problem properties. Organize/ coordinate 280 new block clubs. (F, P, PH, HIO} f. Restructure Certificate of Occupancy fees and i�itiate complaint reinspection fees to better offset actuai cost of inspections so that owners who compty pay the lower fees. (F) g. Evaluate inspeetion procedures and assignments to assure the best use of personne6 to da the job most efficientty and e{fectivefy. Implement innovative fabor saving procedures to reduce the number of complia�ce reinspections necessary to enforce the minimum property standards codes. (PH, F) h. Cootinue proactive compliance efforts and increase patroi and surveiltance of problem - areas Yo decrease tf�e number of citizer� comQtaints. (P PH) • q� � ��.`7 � 1996-1997 Acfivities (cont.) i. Work to improve/redesignlstreamline the Information ComplainY Computer System to provide better information and facilitate inter-departmental communication on an address- based system. (PH, HCT) j. impfement procedures which eliminate the necessity of repeat viofation notices on the same properties for the same nuisance violations which occur continuousiy. (PH) k. Work with Federal and State Representatives to identify and remedy the causes of building abandonment and to reduce the amount of time a building in foreclosure remains vacant. (PH, PED) I. Enhance coordinated approach to addressing illegal drug issues in neigfi6orhoods. (P, F, PH) , m. Implement "Crime Free Multi-Housing Program" which trains owners and managers of multi-unit buildings, organizes tenants, and evaluates design for crime prevention. (P) n. Continue to support training for housing court referees to maintain the effectiveness of the housing court system. (CAO) o. Monitor all Saint Paul properties for those who request more than 5 calls for police services within a 30 day period. Case manage those properties to reduce the need for police services and eliminate nuisance causes. (P) p. implement juvenile offender restorative justice program in at ieast two Saint Paui neighborhoods. (P) q. Train law enforcement personnel, neighbors, and comm�nity organizations in reporting and removing graffiti. Track graffiti complaints and assist with graffiti removal including 70 summary abatement actions. (P) r. Conduct 180 premise surveys to implement crime prevention through environmetttal design. (P) s. Implement a citizen mspector program for Saint Paul neighborhoods. (P, PH) t. Impiement a fee for excessive cafls for service for exterior nuisance violations. (PH, GAO} � 7 �� ` � Priority Action 4: Improve Renfa/ Housing Management S Objectives Reduce the number of problem rental properties in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy for the 1 990s: Objectives 5, 7 a�d 81 Increase the overall quality of rental housing in Saint Paul. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 1, S, 7 and 8) Reduce the negative effects of rental housing on neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Object)ves 5, 7 and 8) Pub(ic Purpose and Cify Ro/e The public has an interest in well-managed rental property tha[ posi[ivef y contributes to the stabilization of neighborhoods. Proactive property management training and incentives can be more effective than compliance actions after the problems occur. The City should provide education for both landfords and [enants to foster strong rental properties. 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to monitor and support the work of the Interagency Stabifization Group. (HC� b. Improve coordination with tenant and Iandiord groups to encourage tenant responsibility, appropriate behavior, and high quality rental housing. (F) c. Work with the Community Stabilization Pro}ect to provide positive reinforcement of • responsible tenants and property owners. (F, PH, & H(0) d. Continue to work with and educate landlords to provide quality housing and effective tenant screening. Train 300 property owners/managers on screening tenants and enforcing behavior standards in their leases. Provide 500 criminal hisCOries in support of tenant screening. (F, P, HIO) e. Utilize media resources and other citizen contad resources to educate property owners and obtain compliance for simple code requirements such as house numbers, refuse removal and routine yard maintenance. (PH, HIO, HC17 Continue to encourage owner-occupied 2-4 unit rental properties through owner- occupancy requirements in the Houses to t-tomes and otf�er mortgage programs. (PED) g. Expand opportunities to provide formal tenandlandlord education. (P, HIOa h. Through the Police Departme�t's "Crime Free Multi-Hausing Pragram" train renta� property owners and managers and organize 50 bfoe[c ciubs in mufti-unit buiidings. (P) Work with housing management associafions such as the St. Paui Association o( Responsible Landlords� Minnesota Muhi-Housing, and East Metro Managers Association to coordinate training'and communication. iHlO, P) • � Q�_ � � 1996-1997 Activities (cont.) j. Support legislative reauthorization and implementation of the Homestead tax rate for well- managed smail rentai properties through the Rental 7ax Equity Program. (PED, HIO, PH) k. Review applicant's houstng management experience and consider instituting training requirements for the receipt of City/HRA renta( housing financing. (PED) I. Educate 400 tenants on their responsibilities and motivate them to take an active role in keeping their home crime free. (P) m. Distribute crime prevention information including block club manua(s, personaf safety information, business safety seminars, home security. (P) n. Work with owners to implement improvements recommended by crime prevention environmentai design surveys. (P) •� o, Provide one on one counseling in effective property management and continue formal education classes through community adult education and classes in the high schools. (HIO) • E] �� r�� Priority Action 5: Address Special Housing Needs within Saint Paul's Populatian while Supporfing Neighborhood Qualify Objectives Provide housing which meets the needs of individuals with special requirements, eg. the elderly, handicapped and larger renter households. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 12, 14, and 75; Consolidated Plan Submission) Provide the homeless with temporary she/ter and services to enab/e them to acqurre permanent housing. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objective 12; Consolidated Plan Submrssion) Promote and support self-sufficiency as fa� as reasona6ly possible where special needs exist. (Housing Policy for the 799Qs: 06jective 12) Provide sufficient housing for low-income househoids while avoiding overroncentra[ion of sucir housing in neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Obj. 15; Consolidated Plan Submission) Public Purpose and City Ro% Suitable and afforda[ile housing is a critical ingredient for some populations to achieve self-sufficiency and ihereby reduce ove�all poverty. 7he City works with private, non-profit and other public entities and the special populations to achieve a"continuum of care" approach including emergency, transitional and permanent housing and appropriate support services for these special populations including the elderly, handicapped and homeless as well as large family households, and low income wage earners. These efforis should 6e part of a broad range of community development actrons including the reduction of overcrowding a�d over concentrarion of renta� housing. 9496-1997 Activities {see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) ❑ • a. Work with Ramsey County to provide additional housing services to meet the needs of special populations. (HIO) b. Continue to provide effective response to homeless and emergency housing needs through the following programs: Relocation Assistance, Emergenty Housing Requests, Utiliry Shutoffs, Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant. (Hf0) c. Continue to preserve and maintain existing public�y-owned low income housing. (PHA) d. Continue to emphasize conversion of smaller units and rehabilitation as a means to create larger units for families where appropriate. (PHA, PED) e. Continue inter-agency and metro-wide colla6oration to meet homeless and emergency needs. (HIU, PED, HC17 f. Continue to implement measures to reduce concentrations of low-income housing wf�en appropriate. (PED, PHA) g. Continue to give priority to propQSals for rehab'slitaYion of existing units over new development. (PED, PHA} h. Continue to refrain from construction of new renEal multi fami[y low income housing units within the City of Saint PauL (PE�, PHA) a 10 � -�� • Priority Action 6: Meet Housing Needs on a Regiona/ Basis Objectives Improve economic opportunity for lower income households by providing housing in proximity to expanding job opportunities. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Objectives 2 and 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Counci/ Resolutions 95-132, 95-1171) Achieve broader sharing of responsibility for affordable housing among communities in the region. (Nousing Policy for the 1990s: Qbjec[ives 2 and 13; Minnesota Livable Communities Ad: City Counci! Resolutions 45-132, 95-7171) Decrease, over time, the concentration of poverty found in inner-city neighborhoods. (Housing Policy for the 1990s: Ob�ective 15; Minnesota Livable Communities Act: City Council Resolutions 95-132, 95-1771) Public Purpose and City Role The polarized regional housing market encourages disinvestment in inner city neighborhoods and isolates lower income households away from major areas of job growth. This polariZation not only creates inadequate living environments for many people but also causes high and inequitably-distributed public costs. Government can influence this development pattern through incentives and regulations that determine the location of lower cost housing opportunities. The City should: support legislation which encourages development of low income housing in suburban areas; support regional efforts to address low income housing needs; and support Saint Paul suburban efforts to provide affordable housing. � 1996-1997 Activities (see Appendrees for Partne�ships and Programs) a. Support Saint Paul suburban low income housing development through the Minnesota Livable Communities Act and other activities. (PED, PHA) b. Support additional legislative efforts to improve the distribution of low income housing opportunities throughout the region. (PED) c. Affirmatively further fair housing goals. (PHA, PED, HIO) d. Continue to work with Anoka, Hennepin, Dakofa and Ramsey Count+es on the Available Housing Data Project to increase information on renial opportunities on a metro-wide basis. (H10) e. In regional efforts to expand housing opportunities, continue to address the impartance of transportation and access to social services and jobs. (PED) f. Continue to support Metro HRA's "HomeChoice' housing mobility program, which helps lower income families receiving Section 8 rent assistance move out of innervcity high poverty census tracts to lower poverty areas in the region. (PHA) . 1i ��-�.� Priority Action 7: /mprove /nformation and Communication � Objecfives Provide citizens with easy access to housing programs and services. (Housing Po�icy for the 1990s: Obiective 3) Effectivefy use city resaurces to address housing issues. Pub/ic Purpose and Cify Ro% Saint Paul residentr have experienced difficulty in ob[aining information about available housing opportunities. Some programs and compliance requirements have application processes that are complex and not easily accessible. Program effectiveness will be improved if existing and potential Saint Paul residents are well informed and have an easily identifiable access point for information and applications. Housing resources will be used most effectively when city departments coordinate activities and provide timely and accurate communication about housing compliance and programmatic issues. 7996-7997 ACtivities isee Appendices fo� Partnerships and Programs) a. Add 280 Block Cfubs in 1996 to continue to improve communication between enforcement agencies and neighborhoods. (P) b. Continue impiementation of the Housing Information Office Outreach Plan. (HIO) c. To increase accessibility to housing services, provide Housing Information Office services I � on-site at Family Centers and continue to provide on-site services at schoois. (HIO) . d. Continue Housing Coordination Team work as a means to efficientiy coordinate city housing services, to improve communication with the City Council, and to collaborate with non-city agencies. (HCT, PED) e. Continue to explore opportunities to simplify access and applications for housing services. (PED, HIO) Continue to identify new steps to ensure broad awareness of housing services and resources avai4ab{e to Saint Paul residents through development of a housing communication plan. {{-{IO, PED) g. Continue to provide facts and analysis as required for accurate cf�aracterization of housing needs and supply. (PED} - h. Attend neighborhood housing fairs. tHlO, PED) i. Explore ways to update [6e 1488 Housing Conditions Survey with avaiEabJe staif resourees, (PED} L� 12 Gi� - �� • Priorify Action 8: Supporf Strategic Neighborhood Improvemenf Objecfives Use resources available for neighborhood improvement effedively. (Housing Policy for the 7990s: Objectives 1, 2, 6, 9, 10, and I1) Ensure neighborhood-level and broad public commitment to improvement decisions. Public Purpose and City Ro/e One key thrust of Saint Paul's housing policy is to ensure that each neighbo�hood fares well in the housing market for che range of households to which ic is most suited. Adequate maintenance and quality in the built environment is necessary in any neighborhood for this objecTive to be reached. City government plays a key role in 1) technical assistance and frnancing for rehabilitation work that the private market does not fully support; 2) public improvements; and 3) planning and integration of neighbo�hoocl-based and city-wide interests and objectives. 7996-1997 Activlties (see Appendices for Partnerships and Programs) a. Continue to improve neighborhoods by working ciosely with neighborhood groups and businesses, particularly those that are effected by problem properties. {PED, F, PH, P) b. Support efforts of STAR program participants to coordinate revitalization efforts. (PED} I c. Update the Sarnt Pau! Nousing Policy for the 1990's in response to the i995 amendments • to the Metropolitan Land Planning Act, the Community Development Agenda and recent concerns regarding housing policy. (PED) d. Continue to use neighborhood planning and cooperative work with neighborhood organizations effectively to promote reinvestment and community health. (PED) e. Continue to work with business groups, community development corporations, district councils and other neighborhood associations to implement neighborhood and city-wide strategies for improvement resulting from the Communiry Development Agenda. (PED) Support housing solutions that are part of integrated community improvement in major targeted planning study areas such as the Riverfront and Phalen Corridoc (PED) g. Continue to support the housing revitalization efforts of neighborhood-based organizations through the Capital Improvement Budgets when such efforts meet the criteria established in the Capital ANocation Policy. (PED) h. Encourage and support impfementation of housing strategies identified through Small Area Plans inc(uding: (PED} Raifraad Island: encourage homeownership; support rehab efforts; create buffer zone Pfialen Viilage: encourage redevefopment of Lakewood and.Maywood Apartments Brewery/Ran-View: encourage redevelopment of Familystyle homes and KocWMobif site Thomas-Dale: support local efforts for a blocic-by-block rertewal campaign East Consolidated: support local efforts for a block-by-block renewal campaign • Lower Dayton's Bluff: support URAP efforts for rehab and new construction 13 �� -��7 n U � • 94-95 Accomplishments The following tab�e quickly summarizes the efforts of several housing program accomplishments for 1994-1995 follow, organized according to priority action 19947995 HousingAction Program. s since 1991. Specific as they appeared in the Program 1991 9992 1993 1994 1995 Totat Ownership Mortgage loans (Mpis/SP First Time 85 �83 78 160 266 772 Home Buyers, Mid. Inc., and Take Credit Houses to Homes: Total 204 4Q7 432 382 405 1830 Rehabbed 40 32 35 68 57 232 pemolished 43 64 75 63 96 341 Reoccupied 121 311 322 230 236 1220 Infili New Const. n/a n/a n/a 21 16 37 PHA HOME Program (families) 13 15 30 34 92 PHA HOMEWARD Program 35 sites 35 sites Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention 524 76i 766 660 592 3303 (househoids) Rehabilitation Owner-Occupied units 377 275 278 280 214 1444 Rental units 110 78 102 203 156 649 Enforcement Housing Inspections: Cert. of Occupancy 7,139 7,941 7,089 6,829 8,039 37,037 Responses to complaints 20,699 15,035 13,703 16,081 15,696 81,214 Total inspections 43,517 43,980 33.769 47,112 46,320 214,698 Educational Program attendance 83,359 83,799 80,034 80,108 80,620 327,300 Block Clubs 240 233 293 278 230 1,423 Lead testing of children �6 years old 3,205 3,114 3,504 3,309 1642' 13,132 Rental Assistance PHA Sect. 8 certificates/vouchers 86 added 62 added 100 added 70 added 50 added 3,055 PHA Scatfered Site acquisifion ' 15 added 25 added ! added � O 447 HIO Housing Counseling Contacts 22,568 26,119 21,617 23,920 19,134 113,358 Emergency Shelter Grants $166,000 - $165,000 $107,000 $253,000 $344,000 $1,035,000 Rental Tax Equity Piiot Program n/a n/a n/a 433 374 807 1 Due to changes in medical assistance/managed care reimbursement strategies, population screened has become more select. Z See HOMEWARD above. 15 q� -�.� 7. Continue home ownership incentives. ■ PED Mortgage loan programs provided financing to 160 individuals and families in 1994 and 266 in � 1995 through the Minneapolis/Saint Paul First Time Home Buyers, the Middte Income Housing Fund, and the Take Credit! programs. ■$200,000 was allocated to the Houses to Homes program to fund conversion of rental single family and duplex units to owner-occupied units. ■ Twenry-one single famify units were bui{t as infill construction through PED's Houses to Homes Program in 1994. Sixteen additional units were buitt in 1995. ■ Phase I! of the Middle Income Housing Fund was launched with the sale of $30 million in bonds in 1995. This program will provide additional funding for' households with annua! incomes up to $89,250. ■ 44 low income families purchased homes through the Public Housing Rgency's (PHA) hlOME programs, moving out of pubiic housing or Section 8 rent assisted apartments. HOME also provided home ownership counseling to 180 families dusing the two years. ■ Another 35 rent-to-own opportunities, in newly rehabilitated scattered site homes, were created for public housing residents through the PHA's HOMEWARD program. At the end of 1995 eligible families were moving into the last of the homes, whicf� tHey will be purchasing over the next five years. ■ Through the Mortgage Forectosure Prevention Program, the Housing Information Office helped home . owners who are in danger of losing their homes through foreclosure. In 1994 and 1995, HIO assisted 525 Saint Paul home owners and provided $199,983 in loans to reic�state mortgages. , Another 463 homeowners received foreclosure counseling under the HUD assignment programs or basic counseling. ■ 860 individuals received, Homebuyin�/Financing tnformation through the Housing Information Office, of which 3l6 received i�tensive counseling. 2. Continue owner and rental rehab financing. ■ 494 ownervoccupied units and 359 rental units were rehabbed through' PED programs. ■ The Houses to Homes program freated a total of 787 vacant housing units in 7994 and 1995. ■ Five loans totaling over $27,000 were provided to child care facilities, in 1994. An additional $70,000 was loaned fo a single facility in 1995, ■ Work began on the Housing Information Office's 1996 Outreach Plan which is'an effort to simplify access to Saint Paul housing programs. ■ The Housing information Office has been identified as the central point for residents fo access information regarding Saint PauYs housing programs. The Hf0 office was identified as the main � contact point in the 1995 Saint'Paul Residents Guide. 16 �, g1�-5�'� • The Housing Division began efforts to formulate a consolidated loan application whereby residents � could apply for multiple programs through a singfe appiication. This effort wi(( continue into '96-'97. ■ The I-tousing Information Office responded to i82 requests for information on home improvement loans and deferred grants through the City, State and private sector. ■ The PHA substantially rehabilitated 17 of the 35 homes purchased in the HOMEWARD program at a cost of over $25,000, with some help from City CDBG funds. Twenty of the HOMEWARD homes had been vacant due to mortgage foreclosures; sixteen of those were vacant "HUD homes." Within five years these homes will be owner-occupied. ■ PED's Housing Division began a realtor outreach program to encourage use of purchase/rehab loans. 3. Provide effective enforcement to reduce the negative conditions of rental housing. ■ AI( city agencies engaged in housing and regulatory activities including Public Health, Fire, Police and the City Attorney's office coordinated inter-departmental responses to probiem properties through the Mayor's Informational Exchange Group, This group has worked with District Councils, neighborhood groups and TenandLandlord organizations to identify and resolve local probiem properties. ■ Relief for well-managed properties was provided through the Rental 7ax Equity Program for one and two unit non-homesteaded residential buildings. HIO administered the pilot project whose purpose was to stabilize costs for conscientious landlords. The Program was intended to offer an incentive to � landiords to improve their tenant-occupied property. 374 rentai properties received the tax credit; total amount spent on repairs -$332,500. ■ Owners of well-managed multi-unit buildings will be granted some relief through proposed revisions to the Legislative Fee structure for Certificates of Occupancy. Under the revisions, owners would receive a 25% discount on the C of O fee if the property owner assures compliance prior to the first renewal inspection. Fees were further revised to include a$50 reinspection fee for compfaints (after the first reinspection), and there is a 50% reinspection fee assessed after the first reinspection. ■ The City Attorney's office in conjunction with the Fire Department and Public Health provided a seminar to housing court referees about housing court issues. ■ Housing court referees, the City Attorney's office and the Fire Department coordinated efforts focussed on increasing effectiveness of tag writing and methods of gaining compliance. ■ Housing court referees indicated some interest in the use of mandatory education for landlords/land owners convicted of housing violations and in providing information packets on city housing programs to those appearing in housing court. Additional work would be needed to implement either idea. ■ FORCE, a community policing effort, continued to address problem properties in neighborhoods. FORCE addressed over 2000 problem property compiaints in 1994 and 1995. FORCE provides crime prevention information, community organizing, housing inspections, and law enforcement as too(s to • address neighborhood concerns. 17 a�-�� ■ 278 btock dubs were added during 1994 totalling 7793 active block dubs throughout Saint Paul. An additionat 230 block clubs were formed in 1995. . ■ Owners with economic limitations continue to be referred to PED for loan and grant information to help them achieve code compliance. ■ Public Health met with the Saint Paul Association of Responsi6le Landlords and presented tenant ` responsibilities as outlined, in the City Ordinance. ■ Housing inspectors were encouraged and instructed to cite �rresponsibte tenants when tenant behavior is obviousty causing the housing problem. ■ The Fire Department expanded the use of Public Education to target high risk populations in multi- unit complexes and educate the juvenile popuiation in these complexes through fire safery fairs. ■' The Fire Department with coordination assistance from the Hausing Information Office increased invoivement of social service agencies in resolving peopfe pcob{ems in properties. Adult and Child Protection Workers, the Communiry Stabilization Project, and the Tenants Union were activefy ' involved in providing assistance to tenants. ■ The Fire Department, Police, and Pubiic Health worked with the Safe Cities Committee to organize and assist in downYOwn sweeps and audits and initiatives in neighborhoods. ■ Public Health's Vacant Buiidings Monitoring and Demolition Program continues to successfuily address the issues and problems associated with vacant, boarded and abandoned properties. In 1995, the Clty Councii designated, additional funding of $500,000 to be used for the demotition of � commercial and industrial vacant buildings. The lengfh of time a building sits vacant and boarded , has been ,dramaticatiy reduced to an average of two years, compared with a five year average in i 990. ■ In 1994, the Mayor and the City Council approved Case Management of probiem properties as a proactive approach in addressing properties generating'multiple'and, repeat complainCs. Numerous, long standing problems have been rectified and the' number of problem properties is be�ng reduced through fhe'efforts of this program and the improved coordination with other agencies and resoarces. ■ More than 30,000 citizen complaints were processed in 1994 and 1995 through Housing Code Enforcement. In 1995, the City Council endorsed efforts to step up enforcement on properties which have received prior notices of nuisa�ce violations, This effort is proving successful at eli•minating repeat a6atements. � � �� ■ The Public Health and Police Departments continued to improJe coordination of enforcement' ' adivities on properfPes that are deteriorated, unsenitary or unsafe and,where criminal behavior is evident. These programs aiso coordinate enforcement activities with the Mayor's,Safe Ciry tnitiative. ■ ln September 1995 the PHA requested HUD approval to adopt the City Codes' fire safety, building and health standards as the inspedion standard for the Section 8 rent,subsidy program, replacing the HUD housing qualiry standards previously used. The PHA also'proposed eliminating its sepazate inspectidns of Section 8-subsidized units in mufti-family apartment buildings� relying instead' on the, Ciry's Certificate of Occupancy inspection system. These actions to re'duce overlapping inspections and separate standards responded to recommendations by City Council Members, representatives pf ' property owners' and tenants' associations and City staff., PHA staff developed the proposal in • 18 �� ' �� collaboration with staff from the Fire Department and the Public Health/Code Enforcement program. � HUD approval was pending at the end of 1995. , ■ In 1995, the City Council passed an ordinance allowirog the police to bill responsible persons for costs of providi,ng police services in response to nuisance events when the property has had more than 5 such events in a 30 day period. ■ The Police improved direct communication with Safe Cities staff to respond quickly and appropriately to problems identified in Safe Cities audiYs. ■ The FORCE Housing Code Enforcement Officer completed 650 cases in 1994 and 1995. ■ Crime prevention officers compieted 475 premise surveys of 6oth residential and commercial property to make recommendations in improving the structure and landscape according to Crime Prevention Yhrough Environmentaf Design principles. 4. /mprove renta! housing managemenf. ■ HIO administered the Saint Paul Rental Tax Equity pilot project. {See above) ■ TenanULandlord education programs continued to be taught by the Fire Dept and the Housing Information Office through the Saint Paul Community Education program and to community and neighborhood groups. HIO provided information on the responsibilities as well as rights of both tenants and landlords to 4030 individuals in 1994 and 1995. � ■ The Police Department and FORCE unit assisted many landlords in obtaining information for tenant screening and improving their screening processes. Public Health, as well, encouraged property owners to utilize good screening techniques in selecting their tenants. ■ The Police Department's FORCE unit began a new program entitled the Minnesota Crime Free Muiti- Housing Program to address crime in apartment complexes through management training, tenant training and involvement, and security assessments. The copyrighted program has proven successful in 29 states. Through the Minnesota Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program, the Police Department encouraged property managers to assess security measures such as locks, lights, windows and shrubbery and make improvements where necessary to create a safer living environment. ■ The Fire Department continues to enforce security requirements in multi-unit buiidings and covers security as well as fire safety in their education effort. Efforts to inventory existing opportunities for rentai housing management training and recommendations for improvements to available training opportunities were turned over to the Interagency Stabilization Group, whose membership includes staff inembers of PED, the Minneapoiis Corrimunity Development Agency, the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and the Family !-lousing Fund. Ann Norton is acting as the consultant to this group which has produced some recommendations regarding the improvement of rental management training. ■ In addition to financial information, rentai property owners are now required to su6mit a Property Management Plan when applying for Rental Rehab Loans. The plan is used to assess the owner's � experience in managing rental property and is given equal weight,along with the financial statement 19 ��U "�� ' in underwriting decisions. In addition, Property Management Manuals containing information on both propevty maintenance and dealing with tenants isgiyen to'alf loan recipients. ., � 5. Support the iow density character of neighborhoods. ■ No new rentat' mutti-famity units,were construded in.1994 or 1995. ,' �' The. Public Hnus'rrrg Agency assisted in'convertirig three-for�tterd'uplzxes to single famiJy horne through its HOMEWARD acquisitionlrehabilitationihomeownership program. ,'' ■,The Public Housing Agency,emphasized conversion of,smaller units to meet demand for large units through conversion of three duplexes to single family homes Yhrough its HOMEWARD acquisition/rehabilitation/homeownership program. � �'�throu�gh the Houses to Homes prQgram,, 28 vac�nt� mulfi-fa�mily structures were conv�rfed to 2'4 � single-family homes and 4 ownervoccupied dupfexes in,1994'and 1995. r PED's Ramsey Hilf Rendvation Project will corivprt,99 efEicfen'cy and ooe-liedroom units located in ' six boildings on Marshall and Dayton Avenue to 56 two-6erlroom unit's. This' proj'e'ct wil{ cantinue � into 1996. � � � � � � . , � b. Address speciai needs.within Saint Pa�ul's poputa�ion,� � � � �� ■ The PHA con�tinued'its �effo�rts�to main[ain existing �low income �ho�sing� �through �major� renovatian oF � Mt. Airy Homes. The total rehab project wiH cost about $'15.6'miil�on (all HUD funds) and, require four years to complete. � 7he $3.9 mi6lion clollar renovation' of.the PNA's RavouK Hi Rise (220 un'rts) was completed in't995. ■ PED's Ramsey HiR', &enovation Project will rnnvert 99 efficiency and one-bedr,,tiom u�its'located in six buildings on tvtarshall and Dayton Avenue to 56 two-bedroam units, This project.will continue „ � into 1996. � � � � � � � � � � � ■ City,agencies continued to,coi,laborate in an effort to,provide eEfective �espons,e to homefe4s and' emergency housing needs through',the fol{owing progcam� managec! by El�e Nousing Infdrma6on. Office: Relocation Assistance: Services are provided to`ho�seholds Ehat have been displaced because of code ' conderonation.. Assistance in I.ocating F�ousing and� ToFl,riectrvng,�vitFr �neeiled�so�ial services,ar,e �the��" ,� � � inajor,coriaponenhs,of this'program�which served,'1�16�house�plds,in'�19'�4 and� �996�:. � � � � � � �, � � Emergency Housing Requests: Nom�e{ess inili�vid;uafs��and fa�rtiiil'ies are�,cannected' �o��tHe shelter s�sYem. Assiseanee' in obfainiqg emergency financiat resources,'�ociaP services and permanent, hausing, was , provided to 333 individuals and families in 1994 and d995. � Utility Shutoffs: Hld staff'assist indiv�duafs�,m usirtg�Yne�Repair and� Deduct Ordinance, yuorlcs;�vith� �, � NSP and the Water Departme,nt to negoYiate re-payrpent pfans'and�,help�� m locat7ng ecriergency.� �� funding sources fo prevent a shutoff or reinstate a utility, 87, households were assisted in '1'994 and 20 � � � � � � � � � � � � � „ „ � � �� , � �� „ � � „ '. ' _ � �_ � ��n `�j� 6 � �.�J 1495. 7994 and 7995. McKinney Homeless Housing Stabilization: HIO staff assisted homeless families and individuals fi�d permanent housing and stabiiize their living situation. 100 families and individuals were assisted in Overnight Shelter Board and Emergency Shelter Grant: Staffed by HIO, [his board monitored the use of emergency sheiter in the City of Saint Paul and made recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on issues related to homelessness. In addition, Hf0 administered $253,000 in Emergency Shefter Grant funds to nineteen programs that provide services to the home(ess. ■ Counseling and information o� both market rate and subsidized housing programs was provided by the Housing information Office to 4770 households seeking adequate affordable housing in 1994 and 1995. In addition, market rate lists of renta! housing were available and a network with some private property owners has been developed. Two phones were provided for client use within the office. 7. Meef housing needs on a regional basis. ■ The City of Saint Paul supported the Minnesata Livable Communities Act passed by the State Legisiature in 1995. The Act provides incentives for ail metro area comm�nities to meet low income housing goals. The Minnesota Livable Communities Act included funding for the Livable Communities Demonstration Account to encourage communities to think creatively about the needed connections between transportation, access to social services and jobs in regional efforts to expand housing opportunities. tn an effort to encourage development of low income housing opportunities in suburban Saint Pau! communities, the PHA invited suburban HRAs to collaborate with them in providing additiona! low income housing outside of St. Paul. Washington County and the PHA prepared a joint development application to HUD, requesting funds for scattered site pubiic housing rental/homeownership units to be acquired in Washington County. Unfortunately, Congress rescinded the HUD development funds just before the appiication was to be submitted. Saint Paul has also encouraged the efforts of the Family Housing Fund to fund affordable housing in suburban areas with links to transportation and job opportunities. 8. lmprove information and communication. The Information Excfiange Group has provided a forum for Council members and District Councils Yo voice concerns over problem properties. !n turn, the information Exchange Group has made a commitment to keeping them informed on issues raised in the Group. 224, Senate File 1670), the Minnesota Livable Communities Act, and other housing programs within PED. ■ PED's Planning Division provided housing facts and data a�alysis to support the development and implementation of the Consolidated Pian (HUD) the Minnesota Community Rehab initiative (Ch. ■ In an effort to improve the consistency, accuracy, and h'elpfulness of the message ciry employees gi� � about residential opportunity in Saint Paul, the Fire Department has scheduled a basic and foilow-u,r communication workshop through the Total Quality Improvement program. �� '� ■ The Housing Coordination Team has continued to coordinate city housing efforts and coliaborate ' with non-city agencies in an effort to resolve housing problems and to provide better housing services � to Saint Paul residents. Special efforts during 7994 and 1995 include revision of PHA inspection standards and provision of comprehensive housing information through the Saint Paui Resident's Guide. ■ To increase accessibility, the Hf0 began to look at different opportunities for providing services. In , cooperation with the Saint Paul pub{ic schoofs, the office began providing on-site counseling services at four etementary schaofs on the East Side. Thus far, there has been a positive reaction from schoo! personnel, parents, and community groups. ■ 860 individuais received Homebuying/Financing Informa6on through the Nousing information Office. Topics included types of mortgage financing, how to buy a home including assodated costs and responsibilities related to upkeep and maintenance. HIO also pre-qualified potential home buyers for ' the City of Saint Paut's speciaf home buying programs. ■ The Hous'tng Information Office' assisted 348 residents in 7994 and 1495 obtain an inspection for code violations and, in some cases, proyided follow-up to assure that the situation was rem'edied. Education on the process and rights associated with housing code enforcement was also provided. ■ Improvements in the 7995 Saint Paul ResidenYs Guide provided c,omprehe�sive in�ormatio� regarding city housing programs and current contacts for information regarding these programs. ■ To ensure broad awareness of housing services and resources availabfe to residentis, information on Saint PauPs housing programs has been provided through the Resident's Guide, through the City Source rable N program, and through neighborhood housing fairs. � ■ The Housing information Office has been identified as the singie contact point for residents wanting to learn more about Saint Paul's housing programs. Residents have been encouraged to contact the Housing Information Office in alLcommunications regarding,housing programs. 9. Support strategic neighborhood improvement. � Over $7 million in residential rehabifitation funds were, awarded to community groups through the first cycfe of the STAR program_ The funds wilf be used to implement sma(i area plans, to provide financing for low- and middle-income buyers, to improve housing occ�pied by seniors with limited incomes, and to rehabilitate vacant housing. An additional $2.7 miflion was awarded for other community development pro}ects. ■ The Pianning Division coordinated ihe Community Develapment Agenda effort which chaltenged husinesses, non-profits and neigh6orhood groups to cooperate in efforts'to improve quality of (ife, pramote economic development and recfuce poverty for Saint Paul residents. The draft Community, Development Agenda wil! be completed in the fali of i995. ■ T{�e Phafen Corridor fnitiative was started in 7994 as a community partnership of businesses and : community groups to attract new businesses and retain existing' businesses, to prepare East Side workers for new }'obs and new techno�ogies, to improve access from the interstate Highway to industrial sites, and to continue and grow community partnerships. Whi{e the tasks are oriented towards economic development, the ultimate objectfJe is`to produce a atronger community and , '.2 ��'�`� improve the quality of life for East Side residents. PED is coordinating this effort. � 10, Other accomplishments: ■ Saint Paul continues its leadership role in the elimination of environmental lead hazards which affect pre-school age children. Public Health provides blood testing, screening, monitoring and education to parent of smal! children, In 1995, the Code Enforcement Program received a 1.8 million dollar HUD grant to continue these efforts and to provide research and abatement data to HUD. incidental to receiving this grant, one inspector was transferred to Public Nea(th from the LIEP office to enforce state mandated lead standards in residential buildings. • Pubiic Heaith continued to administer the Truth-in-Sale of Housing disclosure report program for all single family and duplex homes offered for sale. This report provides basic information to home buyers and sellers. In 1994 and 1995, there were 4326 evaluations performed and only tweive complaints were filed against the evaluators. ■ Public Health also administered the Summary Abatement Program which designates funds to pay for the elimination of public health and pubiic safety nuisances from private property. Abatement work is usually compieted by the Parks and Recreation Department, the Poiice DepaKment, the Thomas- Dale Block Club Association {weed and grass cutting) and private contractors. ■ The Nousing Information Office provided information and education an general housing questions or concerns and social service referrals to 2527 individuals in 1994 and 1995. Examples of information covered include zoning questions, human rights issues, public assistance information, and child � protection programs. ■ The PHA has impiemented new marketing approaches to increase the raciai diversity in the PNA's sixteen hi-rises for eiderly, disabled and single peop(e. The PHA fias continued its "Commitment to Diversiry" program in the hi-rises to increase residents' acceptance of individuals' differences. � � Appendix A: Public and Private Partners Organization Saint Pa Publ Housi Ag (PHA) Minnesota Housing finance Agency (MHFA) Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Family Housing Fund (FHF) Fannie M Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Minneap Co mm u ni t y Development Agency St Paul Coalition for Community Development Home Ownership Center Northwest Area Foundation Habitat for Hum anity Private lending Institutionslmortgage insurers Dep[. of Housin and U rb a n Development Wilder Foundation District Councils Neighborhood Block Clubs Communi Sta bilization Pr Tenant's Union and other tenant organizations Saint Paul Association of Responsible Landlords and otherlandlord organizations Saint Paul Community Education Program Interagency Stabilization Group Metropolitan Cou St. Paul/Ramsey Co. Homeless Task Force Overnight Shelter Board Corporation for Supportive Housing United Way Metro Area Communities Saint Pau� Public Schools 5aint Paul Association of Realtors Community business organizations \ .C� ��t' C (JyL� .Q y C (. J" m�� C.(,� G�ec �s � �:"° � m � � m� a� ` � o 3� . o a� o F Q y � yC ��,� o� o� F� �� d' O O� C, C� Q- � 5�2 F`' �'+ S(.° Ze ` F� Action Action Action Action ARion Attion Action Action 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 g . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 ` a .c ,�c � 'Q �� c�' 0 z� .g c.c,'� r�m� c y � O ° `j� y F � a �,° °� e F Appendix B: Resources and Programs oF�c°' 3c�'r�' a� F c L' c a°O C�" °�� o` F F F � �o/ �2' � O Q Ci C, F�' � 5�2 Q-�� c C, �� F � Program Ac[ion Action Ac[ion Action Attion Action Action AcTion 7 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 PED Home Loan Fund • Mpls/St Paul Family Mortgage Program: • • Phase X(First Time Home Buyers) Middle Income Housing Program • • Take Credit! • • PHA HOME Program • PHA HOMEWARD Program • • Saint Paui Homestead Program • Replacement Single Family New Construction • Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Assistance • Housing Counseling and Information • Houses to Homes • • Special Assistance Monies • Home Ownership Counseling • Single Family Home Improvement Loans • , Rental Rehabilitation Loan Program • Child Care Facilities Rehab Loans • Low Income Housing Tax Credit • • FHF Rehabilitation Participation Loans • Tareeted Communitv Rehab Fund Proeram • • FORCE Program • • Vacant Building Monitoring Program • Targeted Code Enforcement • Block Club Program • • Housing Code Compliance • Lead Paint Abatement • Certificate of Occupancy • Rental Tax Equity Program • • Safe Cities Initiative • Minnesota Crime Free MulYi-Housing Program • • 26 Resources and Programs (cont.) Program Tenant/Landlord Education Programs 8uilding Better Commurtities Awards Program for Rental Housing Metropolitan Livable Communities Accounts Community Development Block Grants Relocation Assistance Emergency Hou Req uests Uuliry Shutoff Assistance Emergency Shelter Grants R Opportu I nf o rmation Human Resources and Job Program Referrals "HomeChoice" Family Housing Fund Suburban Initiative Minnesota Economic Vitality and Housing Initiative Saint Paul Residents' Guide City Source Ca61e TV Program Housing Fairs Saint Paul/Minneapolis Home T our Sales Tax Revitalization Program (STAR) Small Area Plans Targeted planning study areas (Phalen Corridor, Riverfront) � � c°` � W '..�` ��a, o ` oa . C e� ��¢ o� �c o � �m r o �c r` � � R � c` � F c ce °S a e Q �� ^° ` L " o `F'' `c � -c , o ° o' e D F c �` e o o F �4 � Z'� 0 O �c� C� G � �' S��'� �-� 5" �c� L° ��' �c� Attion Attion Action Action Action Action Ac[ion Action 7 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 . .- . . . . . . . . 27