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What is a Consolidated Strategy and Plan?

The Consolidated Plan and Strategy for 2000-2004 is a document which combines three federal Department of Housing and Urban Development Programs: Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), and Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG). The National Affordable Housing Act requires that, for certain federal Housing and Urban Development programs, the City of Akron must have an approved Consolidated Strategy and Plan. A copy of the five year strategy is available in the office of the Department of Planning and Urban Development, City of Akron.

Each year the City drafts an Action Plan which budgets funding for the fiscal year. The 2001 Action Plan is the second year of the five year strategy.

The goal of the Consolidated Strategy and Plan is to provide a five year strategy and annual numerical goals to serve as a working guide for the use of federal resources to address local housing, quality of living , and economic needs. A strategic plan sets forth goals, objectives, and performance benchmarks for measuring progress and establishes a framework for measuring progress.

The Consolidated Strategy and Plan must satisfy the minimum Congressional statutory requirements for Akron's three federal community planning and development formula programs: Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnership and Emergency Shelter Grant. Each of these programs must primarily benefit low and very low income persons. In addition, there are three goals for the CDBG program. The first is the elimination of slum and blight. The programs are to provide decent housing, including programs aimed at assisting persons to obtain affordable housing; retain decent, safe and sanitary affordable housing; and increase the availability of this housing. The second goal of the program is to provide a suitable living environment. The third major statutory goal is to expand economic opportunity.

Housing and Community Development Objectives and Projects: The following describes the Mission Statement, priorities and actions which the City of Akron intends to initiate over the five years from 2000-2004. The rationales for the priority need, obstacles to meeting need, the goal (number) of households assisted, the target population to be assisted through the program and the target date for completion were indicated in the five year strategy.

The Mission Statement for Housing Strategy of Akron, Ohio: Maintain and conserve Akron's affordable housing stock and neighborhoods, expand home ownership opportunities, and address housing needs of lower income persons including the homeless and special needs populations.

The City of Akron set forth the priority activities to be followed in the five year strategy as follows:

Priority based on household need:

1. Low Income Owner Household
2. Low Income Renter Household
3. Homeless Families and Individuals
4. Non-Homeless Special Needs Persons

Priority based on activity:

1. Neighborhood Rehabilitation, Owner-occupied Housing
2. Rental Housing Assistance and Rental Housing Rehabilitation
3. New Housing Construction
4. Acquisition of vacant lots and blighted properties.
5. Homebuyer Assistance
6. Support Facilities and Public Services
7. Homeless Persons, Individuals, and Families Assistance

The Consolidated Strategy includes a narrative describing the housing needs of low income families, homeless families and others with special needs who require supportive services. The Consolidated Annual Plan includes a one year budget for applying available resources to the needs identified.

The City of Akron, Department of Planning and Urban Development, is the lead agency in the coordination and management of the process and preparation of the Plan. The City will lead and coordinate the consolidated planning, submission and implementation process. The City will continue to be involved in activities over the coming year which enhance coordination between public and non-profit housing providers and private and public health and service agencies.

In 2000, the City of Akron convened a meeting of interested citizens, community organizers, low-income neighborhood residents and others including affordable housing advocates, providers, social service agencies, homeless housing advocates, lending institutions and the Public Housing Authority. The 2001 Annual Plan represents the second year of the five year strategy. The following schedule is to be followed for the 2001 Plan:

The citizen participation process over the years has lead to several worthwhile programs such as the Neighborhood Petition Program and the Neighborhood Partnership Program. These programs came as a result of citizen input at various meetings over the years. A proposal format was developed by the DPUP in order to assist organizations who request City funding.

Action Plan: Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice

As part of the Consolidated Plan process, the Fair Housing Task Force was established in June of 2000 to conduct an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing. Through a process of meetings, presentations and research, an action plan was developed. The Task Force will remain active on a quarterly basis to review concerns of Fair Housing Choice in Akron, Ohio.

Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area

The area identified as the City of Akron’s Enterprise Community will be designated as a Neighborhood Revitalization Area. This will allow HUD sponsored housing and economic development initiatives in the areas previously restricted. Activities could include support of housing development activities and business district revitalization.

Meeting Lead-Based Paint Regulations

On September 15, 2000, the Department of Housing and Urban Development new regulations regarding notification, evaluation and reduction of lead-based paint went into effect. This means any residential structures receiving federal assistance must be assessed to meet lead safe clearance. The City of Akron Department of Planning and Urban Development is working to meet those guidelines in partnership with the Akron Health Department. Training for staff as well as local contractors has been implemented to meet the needs of the regulations.

The City of Akron has also requested additional technical and financial assistance from the U. S. H.U.D. to build the necessary capacity in meeting the regulations. Full program conversion is expected to be completed by March 15, 2001.

The City of Akron, Ohio has prepared an Annual Plan for 2001 which includes the budget for the 2001 federal Community Development Block Grant, the HOME Partnership Program and the Emergency Shelter Block Grant Program.

The City of Akron anticipates committing $11,725,000 in total program funding including $8,380,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds; $3.045 in HOME funds and $300,000 in Emergency Shelter Block Grant funds. Of these funds, approximately $550,000 is program income.

The proposed plan includes the following initiatives: The Neighborhood Improvement Program in Glover (southeast Akron); Crouse (west Akron); Bisson project plans (west Akron); Kenmore II (southwest Akron); Neighborhood Housing Petition Program (eligible petition areas); Emergency Home Repair (city-wide); Non-Profit Community Housing Projects (CHDO and non-profit service areas); UNDC New Construction (Community Development Activity Area; Neighborhood Partnership Program; Paint programs (Non-profit service area); Waiver Demolition Program (Community Development Activity Area); Emergency and Transitional Shelter Housing (city-wide); Small Business Assistance Program; Neighborhood Business Districts Program (Middlebury and Copley); New Housing Incentives; Supportive Housing; Human Resources including: Supportive Services, Youth Services, Senior Services, Fair housing, Home Maintenance Training; and General Administration.

At least 70% of the Community Development funds are estimated to be used for activities that principally benefit low income persons. One hundred percent of HOME funds are estimated to be used for activities that benefit low income persons. One hundred percent of the ESG funds will be used for activities that benefit low income persons.

Action Plan

In this section, the City has listed the activities that it will undertake to address priority needs and local objectives with anticipated program income and funds received for the Fiscal Year 2001 program under HOME, CDBG, ESG, and other anticipated HUD program funding sources. The information is summarized below. In addition, the budget information is contained on Action Plan Table "Listing of Proposed Projects".

The Annual Funding Plan describes the eligible programs, projects, and activities to be undertaken with HUD funding and indicates the relationship to the priority housing, homeless and community development needs. The City has also described the reasons for allocation priorities, the connection between the need, the activity and the projected use of funds, and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs. Locations of the activity are identified, if available. The agency responsible for administering the project, if not the City of Akron, Department of Planning and Urban Development, is so noted.

A. Strategy Implementation

1. Priority A: Neighborhood Rehabilitation, Owner-occupied Housing, Rationale, Activities, Programs
   The City considers its housing stock and neighborhoods to be important physical assets of the City, as well as important locations where Akron residents live. By concentrating public improvements and rehabilitation improvements in neighborhoods undergoing deterioration, and by following a mandatory code enforcement approach, all housing and infrastructure within the defined area is affected. This creates observable impact and motivates homeowners and owners of rental properties to invest in their properties. In addition, Human Resource Programs offer a wide range of social services to persons residing within specific areas, including special programs for low income residents, youth and elderly.
   
   The Akron Health Department enforces the Environmental Health Housing Code. This sets minimum standards for housing in the City to be safe and decent. Inspectors will visit deteriorated properties, identify violations, and work with owners to correct the problems. Sometimes it is necessary to take unresponsive owners to court. If properties are so severely deteriorated that they are unable to be repaired, the City offers to tear them down for free through the Waiver Demolition Program.

   1. City of Akron Housing Rehabilitation Program
      By 2001, 28 neighborhoods will have participated in the Neighborhood Improvement Program, affecting over 16,500 homes and apartments. Repair estimates and contractor selection is free. Grants and loans help owners pay for major repairs such as furnace, plumbing, electrical, windows, roof, etc. In the Housing Rehabilitation Program, eligible applicants qualify for up to $5,000 in grant funds and $5,000 in deferred loan funds. Additional low interest loan funds are available. All structures are inspected by the Akron Health Department and all violations noted are to be corrected. All streets, sidewalks, curbs, sewers, lighting in the areas are improved where necessary.
      
      By combining an awareness of neighborhood housing conditions together with U.S. Census data for housing age, housing value, owner occupancy and household income, the City identifies neighborhoods appropriate for a targeted investment program. These neighborhoods are declining physically but have high owner occupancy levels and resident incomes sufficient to make some investment in their housing. Most residents still need some government assistance to make the full amount of improvements required. Neighborhoods of 400-700 structures with definable boundaries are selected. Funding is limited but, over time, most areas will be addressed.

   2. City of Akron Neighborhood Housing Petition Program
      The Neighborhood Housing Petition Program is for smaller (20-80 structures), low income neighborhoods in the inner-city. The same grant and loans funds are available for housing repairs as in the Neighborhood Improvement Program.
      
      In the Petition Program, residents can secure the program benefits by circulating a petition in their neighborhood. Petition residents receive benefits comparable to the Rehab Program. If at least 60% of the property owners sign up, they will be ranked against other petition areas to be eligible for rehabilitation grants and loans. A Home Purchase Incentive Program is also offered in these areas. The program includes streets, walks and curb improvements, to be partially funded through Community Development Block Grant funds.

   3. Non-profit and Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO)
      The provision of affordable housing in Akron, through rehabilitation also can be addressed through local non-profit development corporations in cooperation with other governmental organizations such as the City of Akron. Housing would be targeted at different income groups including very low income households (50% of median income or below) and low income households (80% of median and below). The City supports non-profit housing organizations through CDBG and HOME funds.
      
      Of the $11.425 million HOME and CDBG funds the City budgets for Non-Profit Housing programs, approximately $3.045 million of the funds are designated for projects using HOME funds. An additional $8.380 million is available in CDBG funds. Some of this funding could be used for operating funds available to CHDOs.
      
      The following are housing non-profit agencies operating in Akron: East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation, Urban Neighborhood Development Corporation and Westside Neighborhood Development Corporation. Those projects which are Low Income Housing Tax Credit programs, would leverage State of Ohio funds, bank financing and buyer equity.
      
      The City is implementing a comprehensive program in the Lane/Howe Neighborhood involving both rehabilitation of older homes in the neighborhood and new construction on the site of the old Lane School. This is a collaborative effort with the city, local banks and non-profit housing organizations. (This project is located in Census Tract 5018.) The new housing programs such as Coburn Street and Blake Place revived interest in single family housing construction in the urban core.

   4. Minor Home Repair
      Many low income homeowners throughout the City could use help in fixing up their house. The City's Minor Home Repair Program assists those most in need, the very low income elderly and persons with disabilities. A grant of up to $2,500 will fix one or two serious or emergency problems, like a bad roof, wiring or furnace.

   5. CDC Housing Repair
      In order to address the number of families that have emergency repairs, are low income but are not disabled and/or elderly, the city will initiate a new minor home repair program. This will be for households whose incomes are less than 50% average median income. Up to $2,500 for emergency repairs will be provided.

   6. Paint Program
      Program involves contracting with 501 (C)(3) non-profits to perform paint program using volunteers. Funds are used to purchase supplies. Elderly, handicapped, low-income households are recipients of the program. Project areas include Greater Westside Council of Block Clubs Service Area, the Lane/Howe Area and additional Housing Petition areas.

The City actively encourages the leveraging of private funds. The Housing Rehabilitation program requires residents to commit matching funds based on income, and promotes the use of subsidized low interest home improvement loans through local lenders. The City of Akron currently works directly with several local banks in Akron's Housing Rehabilitation Program. Agreements with National City Bank, Key Bank, Charter One, and First Merit Bank, allow for reduced interest home improvement loans to eligible applicants.

Under the Neighborhood Housing Petition Program, residents are also encouraged to use subsidized low interest loans. Residents are required to commit matching funds, based on income. In addition, under the Neighborhood Housing Petition Program, owners which are below 80% of the median income are provided additional funds in the form of a deferred loan. By requiring a lien to be placed on the property for the amount of the deferred loan, funds can be recycled. At sale of the property or upon vacation of the property, the owner repays the funds and the lien is released.

Under the HOME program, a 12.5% matching requirement will apply for 2001 funds. The City will utilize local funds (income tax, etc.) from the street improvements program for HOME funded neighborhoods as match.

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has been providing technical support towards the development of Neighborhood Community Development Corporations. Within the coming year, it is desired to develop a local funding pool to allow for expansion of CDC’s to expand their programs.

Areas to be Served

1. Housing Rehabilitation, and loan, grant and matching grant programs will be undertaken in the Glover, Crouse, Bisson and Kenmore housing improvement areas. It is anticipated that over 150 homes will be rehabilitated in 2001. Lead Based Paint Regulations (initiated September 15, 2000) is the reason for the decline in activity from 250 units. The City, in selecting the areas to receive intensive housing treatment, looks to a broad range of criteria including not only the age, value and condition of the housing stock, but also owner occupancy rates, household income and other demographics. By selecting areas which have a relatively high level of households with low incomes, structuring the rehabilitation program to meet the needs of low income households and monitoring this activity, Akron assures that a majority of the rehabilitation carried out will assist low income needs. Needs of the handicapped are also addressed by Akron's housing rehabilitation program. Loan and grant monies are available for the alteration of homes within the Community Development housing improvement areas enabling these homes to become handicap accessible.

2. Map 1- Indicates Active and Proposed Neighborhood Housing Treatment Areas for 2001. Census tracts for each area are as follows:

   • Crouse (CT 5063)
   • Bisson (CT 5067)
   • Kenmore II (CT 5054 & 5057)

   • Current areas: Glover will conclude in 2001.

3. Map 2 - indicates Neighborhood Housing Petition Areas. The Neighborhood Housing Petition Program enables Akron residents, in eligible areas, to petition the City for a housing improvement program in their neighborhood.
   
   The Petition eligibility area generally encompasses the central ring of the City. This area of Akron includes 60% or more low income households, aging deteriorated housing and a mixture of rental and home ownership housing. This area does not include areas previously served by the CD Neighborhood Housing Improvement areas, and also does not include the downtown or the Opportunity Park Urban Renewal Area. The Petition Area is generally surrounded by CD Neighborhood Housing Improvement areas. Petition areas selected represent blocks where a high percentage of property owners signed the petition requesting an improvement area. It is anticipated up to 30 households will benefit this year and that as this program continues, more neighborhoods can benefit from this ""mini'" concentrated neighborhood approach to neighborhood improvement. The Phase III petition selection process took place in 1998. The City initiated several new neighborhoods from this 3rd phase.
   
   The City Minor Home Repair Program is offered City-wide. The Senior Home Improvement Program paint program is offered in the Greater Westside Council of Block Clubs (GWCBC) service areas of Ward 3 and 4. New paint programs will be considered for funding. With the initiation of Lead Base Paint Regulations, the program participants must be able to meet all of the regulations necessary to meet lead-safe clearance.

2. Priority B: Rental Assistance and Rental Rehabilitation

1. City of Akron Programs
   The Rental Rehabilitation Program offers financial assistance to rental property owners in Neighborhood and Petition Improve-ment Areas for the correction of housing code violations. This assistance is a matching grant of up to $5,000 for a single unit property and up to $10,000 for a 2-4 unit property. Higher amounts are available for properties with five or more units. In order for an investor-owner to utilize the rental rehabilitation program, match money must be committed to the project. The City will pay up to 50% of the cost of the rehabilitation. The Rental Rehabilitation budget is reflected in the Rehabilitation budget for each target area. The Rental Rehabilitation Program is undertaken by the City within the active Housing Treatment areas and within the Neighborhood Housing Petition Areas. Units are predominantly occupied by low/moderate income families. Over 50% of the units are occupied by very low income households. Approximately 30 units will be rehabilitated.

2. Non-Profit Housing Organizations
   Just as the City provides funds for rehabilitation of ownership housing through non-profit housing organizations, so to does it provide funds for rehabilitation of rental housing. Non-profit CHDO's, utilizing HOME funds, could expend in 2001 funds for rehabilitation of rental housing. (Amount is dependent on proposal requests received.) The City would contract with non-profit organizations when allocating these funds.

3. State of Ohio Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program
   Federal tax credits, channeled through the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, which are used to provide equity in affordable housing projects. Funds are utilized by non-profit and profit developers for the creation of affordable rental housing, including substantial rehabilitation.

4. AMHA Operated Programs
   The Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority owns and manages over 4,600 dwelling units in its public housing program. Additionally, the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority utilizes over $24 million for Section 8 for rental assistance. This activity is funded through HUD directly and not through the City of Akron. AMHA is the primary provider of tenant assistance for very low income persons. In addition, almost $4 million is provided through other types of HUD housing assistance payments or rent subsidy. The Akron Metropolitan Housing Agency utilizes over $10 million each year in H.U.D. funds to rehabilitate their public housing units. The AMHA's future capital improvement plans will be contained in the Five Year Plan and Annual Agency Plan submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. These plans will, for the most part, take the place of the Comprehensive Grant Plan.

3. Priority C: New Construction
The provision of affordable housing in Akron, through new construction, can be addressed through local development corporations in cooperation with other governmental organizations such as the City of Akron. Housing would be targeted at different income groups including very low income households (50% of median income or below) and low income households (80% of median and below) homeowners. The City strives for a mix of income in order to sustain neighborhoods.

1. The Urban Neighborhood Development Corporation contracts with local builders for construction of quality homes on in-fill lots, currently priced below $75,000. Each home has three bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms, family room, full basement, two car garage, vinyl siding, landscaping and a concrete drive. These homes blend with the neighborhood architecture and bring new life to old neighborhoods. UNDC is currently constructing new housing in the Lane/Howe area and is reviewing new UNDC housing in the Fess and Crouse area.
2. The City receives HOME funds every year and sets aside a portion of these funds for projects by non-profit housing organizations or CHDOs. A portion of the $500,000 budget for CHDOs would be allocated for new construction. These funds are used to facilitate new construction in conjunction with the State of Ohio Low Income Housing Tax Credit Programs. Programs anticipated for funding are the Summit Lake Homes project.
3. State of Ohio Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program and State of Ohio HOME Program - The City of Akron is the pass-through agency for State of Ohio HOME funds awarded to non-profit housing organizations or for-profit organizations receiving LIHTC approval.
4. Other notable agency or non-profit providers of new housing include Habitat for Humanity, which utilizes private donations and volunteers. Other new construction projects include the Landings in downtown Akron, constructed by Alpha Phi Alpha Homes, a non-profit housing development. It is the intent of Alpha Phi Alpha Homes to undertake the construction of 50 more condominium units; the first phase is completed. (The City will be budgeting Tax Increment Financing Bond funds for Public Improvements in the Opportunity Park Urban Renewal Area for this project.)
5. AMHA constructs public housing. This is funded through HUD directly and not through City of Akron. Construction of public housing is tied to the availability of federal public housing funds.
6. Community Development Corporation (CDC)s have been utilized for rehabilitation and new construction within neighborhood areas. Until recently, East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation (EANCD) and Westside Neighborhood Development Corporation (WENDCO) have filled this role.
   
   Several new CDC’s have developed and plan to develop new housing as well as rehabilitation within their neighborhoods. These are University Park Development Corporation, Nazareth Development Corporation, and BICEE Development Corporation.

4. Priority D: Homebuyer Assistance
Home ownership is a key ingredient for neighborhood stability and economic well being. The City's goal is to assist more households to become homeowners in order to maintain or increase home ownership in program neighborhoods. The homes that sell at prices affordable to lower income residents are often deteriorated and in need of rehabilitation. Even when homes are affordable, many households do not have the money for a down payment.

1. City of Akron: Home Purchase Incentive Program
   Neighborhood Improvement Areas, the Home Purchase Incentive Program enables persons buying homes to use up to $2,000 to match their own down payment funds. The remainder of the grant and any low interest loan is used to repair the homes. Buyers agree to live in their house for at least five years or part of their grant is repaid.
   
   This program is available in both the Neighborhood Housing Improvement Areas and in the Neighborhood Housing Petition Areas. It is anticipated that up to 10-15 households would benefit from this program. This budget item is also included under the rehabilitation line item as these properties are also required to be brought up to Akron Housing code standards.

2. Non-Profit Housing Organizations
   The City sets aside HOME funds received each year for use by nonprofit Housing Organizations or CHDOs. These funds may be used for rehabilitation, new construction, and for programs which include a Homebuyer Assistance component.

3. Citywide Homeownership Incentive
   In Census tracts with less than 60% home ownership, the City will initiate a down payment/assistance program. Up to $3,000, 2:1 match will be made available for this new program. For properties constructed prior to 1978, there will be an assessment to identify if the home is lead safe, (per HUD Regulations).

The City believes that in many instances, support services are crucial to the success of housing programs and for programs and special needs populations. The City funds several social services which aid special needs populations.

The proposals for the following categories will be considered by the Department of Planning and Urban Development: General Supportive Services, Senior Citizen Services, Youth Related Services, Home Maintenance Training and Fair Housing Services. Individual contracts will be reviewed by Akron City Council for approval.

6. Priority F: Homeless Persons, and Families

The City of Akron anticipates a 2001 Emergency Shelter Grant entitlement of $300,000. The City's funded activities will emphasize funding emergency and transitional facilities and assisting homeless persons to obtain permanent housing.

The City's first funding priority will be the rehabilitation of emergency and transitional facilities. The City is committed to assuring that the community's facilities for the homeless provide decent, safe and sanitary residence. Because of the transient nature of shelter operations, these facilities incur significant wear and tear. As community facilities, it is important that the physical condition of these facilities remain high to provide good living conditions for the residents, to portray a good image of shelter operations, maintain acceptance of the facility's presence, and be a positive physical aspect of the neighborhood in which it is located. (Based on the previous year's allocations, the City projects allocating 25% of its ESGP funds for this activity.)

The City's second funding priority will be for operating costs of shelter activities. The City will emphasize the purchase of furniture and equipment under this activity. Again, the City is concerned with maintaining a quality living environment for residents and to respond to the inevitable wear and tear on facilities. Normal facility operating costs are also eligible for funding. (Based on the previous year's allocations, the City projects allocating 60% of its ESGP funds for this activity.)

The City's third funding priority will be for essential services, especially those that assist shelter residents to secure permanent housing. In 1995, the City established a security deposit program to assist families leaving the shelters to secure permanent housing. Other eligible activities will be considered for funding that link residents with needed services or programs. (Based on the previous year's allocations, the City projects allocating 10% of its ESGP funds for this activity.)

The City will reserve 5% of its ESGP funds for program administration.

The City sponsored a meeting of all shelter and homeless service providers on September 8, 2000, as it has in years past. At this meeting, the City reviewed ESGP program requirements and described the City's funding goals as stated in the application. The City solicited proposals from all interested parties, allowing approximately 60 days to return proposals with the proposal deadline of November 1, 2000.

The City follows several policies in its review of ESGP proposals:

1. The City will provide assistance to a wide variety of shelters, recognizing the variety of service needs.

2. A division of support among emergency and transitional facilities.

3. An emphasis on rehabilitation of structures and the purchase of furniture and equipment.

4. An emphasis on the support of existing shelters which continue to meet documented need over the funding of new shelters.

5. New activities funded will support assistance in securing transitional and permanent housing.

6. The City will consider ESGP financial support of new residential developments only if the most recent preceding development by that organization has been outside of the City and is of similar or greater size than that proposed for inside of the City. This policy will apply to all organizations developing residential options for the homeless or special needs populations. (For further explanation of this section, please refer to: City of Akron Consolidated Strategy and Plan for Housing and Community Development Programs FY 2000-2004.)
   
   The City will strive to complete its review of proposals within 45 days. Nonprofit organizations receiving assistance will be required to provide matching funds. These funds will come from a variety of federal, state, local and private sources.

7. Priority G. Acquisition
   Acquisition of vacant land and/or properties with CDBG funds for the purpose of development of housing is programmed. The City anticipates land banking appropriate parcels for future redevelopment of housing. At this time, this program would operate city-wide. The acquisition funding is contained in the New Housing Initiatives program budget. A portion of funding awards to nonprofit corporations will be used for the acquisition of property.
   
   The City has initiated an acquisition program of tax delinquent property through a Land Reutilization Program. While federal funds are not used directly for this program, the program can result in the construction of new homes, including LIHTC, Habitat for Humanity or market rate housing.
   
   Acquisition resulting in demolition of a dilapidated vacant structure may also take place. Acquisition of rental and owner housing takes place within Neighborhood Rehabilitation Program Areas. This activity would take place to eliminate slum and blighted conditions.

8. Priority H: Non-Homeless Persons with Special Needs
   The City provides CDBG funds for non-homeless persons with special needs. The City will operate the Minor Home Repair Program (see Priority A) in 2001 which is aimed at the elderly, frail elderly, and persons with disabilities. The City provides CDBG or HOME funds for the residents of the Neighborhood Rehabilitation Program areas or selected Neighborhood Petition Areas who are in need of rehabilitation to make their home handicapped accessible, including (but not limited to) funding for the installation of ramps for wheelchair accessibility. Investment loans (0 interest deferred loans due at transfer of property) are also available to very low income and handicapped in hardship circumstances. (See Priority E.) (This is budgeted within the Housing Rehabilitation category.)
   
   No table is provided for this section because City programs indicated are found under other priorities.

9. Non-Housing Community Development Programs
   The City will undertake programs which support economic revitalization within neighborhoods and correct slum and blight conditions within low income neighborhoods. Programs will also be implemented to allow completion of Urban Renewal activities.
   
   The Non-Housing Community Development Programs are as follows:

   1. Waiver Demolition:
      Demolition of dilapidated structures, including garages, commercial and residential units. This program addresses slum and blight conditions. Eligible activity area is the Neighborhood Development Activity Area (Map 3).

   2. Neighborhood Business District Program
      Provide funds to enable neighborhood business districts to undertake revitalization within a low income area. Funds are for business rehabilitation as well as acquisition, relocation and clearance of dilapidated property. Public improvement planning is also an eligible activity. Currently, the active area of Middlebury (CT 5014, 5024, 5031, and 5034) is underway. The Copley Road East area (CT5065 and 5063.04) is nearing completion. Within the NBD, matching facade grants of up to $15,000 and loans up to $150,000 are available to owners. Program areas are primarily low and moderate income. Neighborhood Business Districts will be opened for development in Highland Square and South Main Street.

   3. Small Business Assistance:

      1. The Enterprise Community Loan fund includes CDBG and bank commitments to fund a small business loan program. This fund is operated by the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation. Activity area is Akron's Enterprise Community Area and Enterprise Zone.

      2. Small and Minority Business Assistance Program provides technical assistance to small or minority owned businesses. Purpose of program is job creation/retention of businesses.

   4. Public Improvements within Neighborhood Development areas and Neighborhood Housing Petition Areas
      
      The reconstruction of streets, walks, curbs, gutters, and the installation of storm sewers and street trees within Neighborhood Development areas is an important component of a comprehensive improvement program. Just as the rehabilitation of older, yet viable housing is an important component of the neighborhood revitalization, so too is the reconditioning and upgrading of old infrastructure. This activity benefits low and moderate income areas.

   5. Neighborhood Partnership Program
      The Neighborhood Partnership Program is made available to neighborhood organizations or block clubs. Matching grants of $500-$7,500 is available for small neighborhoods based projects based on innovative ideas for improving a neighborhood. The program is offered city-wide. The Akron Community Foundation has added $100,000 toward this initiative.

Akron Enterprise Community Program

The Akron Enterprise Community (EC) includes the City's downtown, the University of Akron area, the high poverty area ringing the downtown on the near north, south and west sides of the City, and the South Arlington Street corridor on the east side. Although an area of high unemployment and poverty it has significant economic activity. The City of Akron was awarded a $3 million grant from the federal Department of Health and Human Services (H.H.S.) to be used over a five to ten year period, to be used as seed money to improve the quality of living for the EC businesses and the residents. The strategies and initiative developed attempt to lessen the disparity between high poverty and substantial economic activity as well as addressing the comprehensive needs within the social and physical environment. Many of the City's activities funded through the 2001 Consolidated Plan are undertaken within the Enterprise Community, and complement the EC activities. The Enterprise Community benchmarks include creating economic opportunity within and outside the community; access to capital; public safety; the urban landscape; supporting families; health; education; and housing. The Akron Enterprise Community Network was developed to review progress with the EC benchmarks and provide input on decision making. As stated earlier in this document, the EC will be designated as a Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area to provide opportunity for housing and economic development initiatives. CDBG funding is programmed for continued support to the Sebert program, new housing construction, Family Loan Technical Education, and the Enterprise Community Fund.

2. Monitoring Standards and Procedures
   The City of Akron, Department of Planning and Urban Development currently has in place a monitoring strategy to review the production of housing programs undertaken by the City of Akron. Such a strategy involves not only direct communication from field staff through management, but also monthly housing production reports. A Planning, Rehabilitation and Health Housing Coordination Committee meets on a quarterly basis to review monthly production levels, staff work flow, housing case distribution and inspection activity. As concerns are identified, solutions are presented and implemented. Such a monitoring plan would be continued with new housing programs. Monthly progress reports which include housing programs are made available to management level, in the Planning Department, Service Department, Public Safety and Finance Departments as well as to the Mayor, Cabinet and Akron City Council.
   
   The City also prepares an annual report as a recipient of federal CDBG,HOME and ESGP funds Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPERS) Report. The next report (to be released March 2001) will cover the Community Development Block Grant Program, HOME, and ESG Progress for the period from January 1, 2000-December 31, 2000 including project descriptions, the year the activity was first funded, expenditures for each project, and the accomplishments for each project activity. The C.A.P.E.R.S. and IDIS reports contain a summary of program funds received and expended, the amount of funds benefiting low and moderate income persons, a report on the total number of households assisted by income and race, and a summary of citizen comments and concerns. These reports are made available for public inspection in April. Monitoring for the Consolidated Plan would incorporate such reporting information. The City coordinates with Community Groups throughout the year to review specific concerns.
   
   In addition, the City meets with a new Neighborhood Housing Petition Program Committee to monitor progress. The City also participates in the Continuum of Care which meets frequently to discuss issues and concerns as related to the E.S.G. funds and homeless issues.
   
   The City will monitor the Consolidated Plan as required by the Department of Housing & Urban Development and in conformance with all applicable regulations. Groups are encouraged to take an interest in the Consolidated Plan and evaluate its impact. The Consolidated Plan and Consolidated Plan monitoring will be shared with the County. The City will prepare the required federal report documents for the 2000 program year. The 2001 Annual Consolidated Plan monitoring reports and substantial amendments to the Consolidated Plan, will be made available for public inspection and comment. Copies will be available to the public.

3. Anti-Poverty Strategy
   The City of Akron will continue its involvement over the coming year in the following programs. These programs contribute to the removal of households from poverty status through provision of supportive services and transitional housing with support services.
   
   Human Resources Programs
   The City of Akron will use CDBG funds over the next year to offer service programs to residents in designated Community Development and Petition areas and in some instances Citywide.
   
   These programs assist low-income elderly and handicapped persons, youth and children, including very low income households.
   
   General supportive services, such as Info-Line and Fair Housing offer services to low-income persons to help them in a variety of ways.
   
   Affordable Housing

• Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA) - The City is supportive of AMHA's Family Self-Sufficiency Program which provides supportive services to participating families to reach their goal of economic independence and self-sufficiency.

• Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs)
  
  The City contributes CDBG funds for operating expenses of non-profit Community Housing Development Corporations. EANDC offers home maintenance and budgeting training for its participants under its HOPE III Program. WENDCO is planning purchase/rehab/resale home projects and new housing in FY 2001.

• The City is supportive of proposals for an agency to provide home maintenance training for additional low income new homebuyers.

Economic Development

• Small and Minority Business Technical Assistance - This program provides technical assistance to minority and small businesses.

• Middlebury, Highland Square and South Main Street Neighborhood
  Business Districts (NBD) - The NBD’s project is an effort by the City to infuse renewed investment in an area overlapping parts of the Mason Park Neighborhood Improvement Area and former Ido and Highland Neighborhood Improvement Areas. The project objectives are to encourage owner reinvestment and new business, rehabilitation of blighted structures and beautification, general public improvements, provision of social services and improvement of safety conditions.

• The Enterprise Community Fund will help the creation of jobs through the provision of small business loans by a revolving loan fund.

Crime Prevention
Areas of poverty are often associated with high crime. The City is making a comprehensive effort utilizing federal, state and local funds to undertake community policing. The City encourages and supports neighborhood block watches within our Housing Petition Areas and within Housing Treatment Areas, and is investigating the concept of defensible space for certain neighborhoods. In Wards 3 and 4, the City implements the Weed and Seed strategy utilizing funds from the Department of Justice. The program weeds out the negative influences and enhances or "seeds" the positive through law enforcement, community policing, social service and neighborhood restoration

Transitional Housing
The City of Akron supports the provision of housing for the homeless with CDBG/ESG funds. The City encourages the continuation of existing emergency shelters while also encouraging transitional housing with support services as part of the Continuum of Care. The final goal is to integrate homeless individuals back into the community. The intent of emergency housing is to serve as a stepping stone to transitional housing and further, to affordable permanent housing.

4. Coordination Efforts
   The City of Akron will continue to be involved in activities over the coming year which enhance coordination between public and non-profit housing providers and private and public health and service agencies.
   
   The City of Akron holds meetings with the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA) to discuss issues of mutual concern and to update progress of any new housing programs or developments.
   
   The City attends meetings throughout the year with the Housing Network and non-profit Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs) on their progress. The City holds special meetings with various citizen committees, including those operating in each of the Neighborhood Housing Treatment areas and with an advisory committee which meets regarding the Neighborhood Housing Petition Program. At these meetings, members of various City Departments, including Police, Fire, Health and Housing are in attendance. Meetings are also held regarding the Neighborhood Partnership Program.
   
   The Rehabilitation and Comprehensive Planning Sections of the Department of Planning and Urban Development and the Health Department meet quarterly to discuss the progress of the Neighborhood Improvement Program. At this meeting, the appropriate timing for opening and closing of activities in various areas is discussed. Also, utilization of staff, promotional activities, operational procedures and distribution of effort throughout the program are discussed.
   
   The University of Akron, Department of Public Administration and Urban Studies and Department of Geography and Planning have expressed a desire to cooperate with the City of Akron in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan and 5-Year Strategy. The University has a history of working with the city in a number of ways, drawing on strengths in education, training, evaluation, and research a well as placing interns with the city on various projects. This relationship will continue and increase these cooperative activities as the City continues its Economic Development activities and associated enhancement of quality of life.
   
   The City will continue to provide representatives on local agency boards and provide staff to serve as resource persons to various housing, health and social service agencies in the coming year.

1. Public Policies
   The City of Akron in its five-year strategy was required to assess the effects of the public policies impacting upon the availability of affordable housing, and set forth a plan to remove or ameliorate their negative effects. The specific actions or reform steps to be taken as part of that plan over the coming year to remove or ameliorate these negative effects are as follows:

   1. Provide adequate land for a variety of housing types through review by Zoning and Land Use and Development Guide Plan updates.

   2. Continue practice of one-stop permitting.

   3. Work to eliminate obsolete and prescriptive building code requirements. (Building Code Task Force).

   4. Continue educating the public on the need for affordable housing and promote a diversity of affordable housing programs.

   5. Coordinate with local state and federal agencies in implementing programs which support affordable housing (e.g. State of Ohio Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, Summit County Land Reutilization Program, federal programs such as HOPE III, etc.)

2. Institutional Structure
   The City described in its five-year strategy the institutional structure, including private industry, non-profit organizations, and public institutions, through which it will carry out the affordable and supportive housing strategy, and was required to assess the existing strengths and gaps in that delivery system, and set forth a plan for improvement. Those actions and steps to be taken as part of that plan over the coming year to eliminate the identified gaps and to strengthen, coordinate, and integrate the institutions and delivery system as follows:

   1. Pursue other funding sources for affordable housing as they become available.

   2. Develop an approach to coordinate social services with housing treatment areas.

   3. Hold quarterly meetings with AMHA to help ensure coordination on programs and monitor progress.

   4. Pursue developing and expanding programs with lenders who serve the Akron area.

   5. Continue work with non-profit housing developers.

   6. Serve on committees/boards involved in housing and social service delivery.

   7. Hold public meetings to inform citizens of housing programs.

3. Public Housing Improvements
   The City described in its Consolidated Plan the number, physical condition, and restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units operated by the local public housing agency. In the five-year strategy, the jurisdiction was required to set forth the public housing agency's plan for improving the management and operation of such public housing, and the strategy for improving the living environment of public housing residents. The actions and steps to be taken by the AMHA as part of that plan over the coming year to improve the management and operation of public housing, and the living environment of public housing residents are as follows:

   1. Increase the overall occupancy rate (adjusted for units under modernization).

   2. Improve vacant unit turnaround times.

   3. Continue to convert undesirable efficiency size apartments to marketable one-bedroom dwelling units.

   4. Continue a lead-based paint testing and abatement program.

   5. Reduce total tenant accounts receivables.

   6. Continue to modernize senior and family dwelling units utilizing funds from the Comprehensive Grant Program.

   7. Introduce new management techniques and strategies in the property management division.

   8. Expedite the placement of applicants using new methods and procedures.

   9. Continue the effort to control drug and related problems in specific housing projects through the use of Public Housing Drug Elimination Grants.

4. Public Housing Resident Initiatives
   The City described in the five-year strategy activities to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in the management of public housing, and to encourage them to participate in homeownership. The activities to be undertaken over the coming year, by the AMHA, to encourage involvement of these residents in management and to encourage their participation in homeownership are as follows:

   1. Continue operation of AMHA's Family Activities Counseling Efforts (F.A.C.E.) program to encourage a move to economic self-sufficiency (family goal setting, budgeting and home maintenance) and homeownership.

   2. Continue efforts to offer residents options in potential homeownership through open-market working with banks and lenders to provide Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) monies for first time homebuyer mortgages.

5. Lead Based Paint Hazard Reduction
   Seven (7) identified census tract areas in the City of Akron have very high socio-economic and environmental risk factors, which demonstrate the prevalence of lead exposure. These factors include age of housing, high poverty, low proficiency scores, and concentrated ethnicity. Current CDC Stellar data shows a high concentration of children with lead poisoning documenting evidence that lead poisoning is epidemic in Akron, Ohio. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a Summary Report in 1992-called Project LEAP (Lead Education and Abatement Program). The City of Akron, Ohio was listed in this report as one of the top ten of 83 Midwestern cities due to having both the highest percentage of high-risk housing and the highest percentage of children which may be found to exceed 10mg/dl in blood lead concentration. The demographics of Akron's housing stock demonstrates that over 95% or 91,766 units were constructed prior to 1978 and are at risk of having lead hazards on the interior and exterior of the homes.
   
   The Akron Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program's experience over the last 20 years indicates that approximately 50% of the housing stock (46,000) show signs of extreme deterioration. The 1990 Census date shows 19,985 children > 6 years reside in the City of Akron. Screening through the Akron CLPPP has identified 17% of all children screened with lead levels >10mg/dl. These figures indicate that potentially 19,000 children are at risk for lead poisoning within the City of Akron. The targeted Census Tracts show a concentration of approximately 40,400 or 44.8% of the families do not exceed 50% of the median income for Akron, while 58,800 (64%) do not exceed 80% of the median income. All of the targeted areas are within the Enterprise Community.
   
   The administrative organization of the Akron Lead Based Paint Hazard Control Program will include a staff of the following: An overall program director, a day-to-day program manager, a fiscal officer, a health education specialist, a public health nurse, a secretary, a housing inspector/risk assessor who will work full-time for 30 months. The principal partner is a community-based organization, The East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation, (EANDC). This organization will staff a housing specialist/contractor supervisor, an assistant housing specialist and an intake specialist who will work full-time for 30 months.
   
   The Akron Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) and the Akron Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program are committed to offering the most comprehensive and cost effective services to at risk children, their parents, and health care providers. The services include: 1) Screening services, 2) Collecting data to identify high-risk populations, 3) Coordination of prevention and hazard reduction services with other health, housing, and environmental agencies, 4) Continuation of a community-based program aimed at the reduction of lead based hazards through interim cleaning methods and education, 5) Comprehensive medical and environmental case management and 6) An ongoing outreach education campaign to increase public and professional awareness of incidence, affects, and treatment of lead poisoning. T he Akron Health Department will continue as the lead agency for the Akron Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program. The Akron Health Department has been involved in identifying and reducing the lead levels of blood in children as well as lead hazard reduction in homes since 1975.
   
   The Akron CLPPP has screened over 70,000 children in high-risk areas of Akron, and has reduced lead hazards in 4,000 units through environmental intervention s and the enforcement of the Akron Lead Hazard Ordinance. The goals, progress and achievements of the current Akron Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program, Round 5, are: 1) The reduction of lead hazards in a minimum of 100 low to moderate income households with children identified with elevated blood lead levels (EBL's), greater than 15 mg/dl. To date, the grant program has assisted low to moderate-income families within the targeted areas with 128 applications received, 111 applicants reviewed and 77 approved for assistance. The program has achieved the first goal by completing and clearing 65 homes at the end of the second year of the work plan. This is 65% of our goal, which exceed the required 45% for Round 5 grantees. 2) The recruitment and training of 33 minority and low income contractors and workers, 3) The training and education for 12 areas residents on methods of interim controls through specialized cleaning aimed at prevention of lead poisoning and 4) The development of an effective public health promotion program which included 63 events aimed at preventing lead poisoning. The program has screened 6,140 children in 1999 within the City of Akron jurisdiction, with 193 active cases at the end of 1999 and the program averages between 200 and 300 cases per year. An estimated 300 units are referred for inspection or risk assessments each year.

• to reduce lead hazards in at least 100 homes of low to moderate income families with children under the age of six identified with lead levels > 15 mg/dl and interim controls in at least 200 high risk homes;
• continuation of recruitment and training of low income contractors and workers;
• increase outreach and screening initiatives through collaborative efforts with community-based organizations within the target areas;
• increase the training of area residents in appropriate cleaning procedures to enhance the current primary prevention program, and;
• the continued development of a public relations campaign to promote community awareness on lead poisoning prevention.

The total program budget requested is $3,000,000 over a 30-month period. There are 14 working partners providing 1.8 million in the form of personnel, services, programs, supplies, materials, technical assistance and training. The partners will be involved in the following elements of the program: lead hazard testing, lead hazard control, including interim controls, community awareness, education and outreach, lead training of workers and contractors, and program evaluation. Priority of identified units will be as follows: 1) presence of children identified with EBL's under 6 years of age; 2) units within the high risk target areas; 3) degree of lead hazards; and 4) units located within the Enterprise Community and Community Block Grant areas.

The Akron Lead-Based Hazard Control strategy will combine interim control measures and hazard reduction techniques for a minimum of 100 homes within the target areas of Akron. An additional 200 units will receive primary prevention interim cleaning for reduction of lead contaminated dust levels in high-risk homes. A site specific risk assessment will identify the type of lead hazard control needed; emergency interim controls, partial abatement or full abatement. The overall goal is to reduce the immediate hazards such as lead contaminated dust, soil, and deteriorated lead based paint and to facilitate clean up of areas to conduct in place management of lead hazards. The average cost to reduce lead hazards utilizing a combination of interim and full abatement techniques has been $13,000. The time frame to accomplish lead hazard control work using full abatement techniques has averages 7-25 days, for interim controls or minor lead abatement measures, 5-10 days. The relocation plan for occupants is in place and consistent with the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act of 1970, the Uniform Relocation Act Amendment of 1987 and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Outreach and Educational initiatives have included the collaboration of the Akron Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, The Akron Lead Hazard Control Program, East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority, Akron Fair Housing program, and the Greater Westside Council of Block Clubs. The East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation has been successful in recruiting low-income residents from the targeted neighborhoods and minority contractors to be trained, licensed, and certified in lead abatement as prescribed by the Ohio State Statute. Cooperative outreach with the Summer Youth Employment Program employed 12 youths to work on non-lead repairs in one of the designated relocation homes and also provided the program with area outreach activities with a door to door educational campaign. The Westside Council of Block Clubs continues to interact at the community level by educating residents in high risk areas on the use of interim controls for the reduction of lead dust in homes. The International Institute of Akron will assist the program in developing culturally sensitive education information.

The City of Akron Department of Planning and Urban Development is a working partner with the Akron Health Department. Together they have formed a Lead Task Force comprised of divisions of Health, Comprehensive Planning, Housing Services and Housing Rehabilitation. Training of City personnel as well as area contractors in working in a lead-safe manner in order to meet HUD regulations has begun and is continuing. A six-month transition period to convert the housing rehabilitation and petition programs is in motion. By March 15, of 2001, the Housing Rehabilitation Program and local contractors should be well prepared to meet the HUD lead regulations.