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Minutes of the Meeting of the CDBG Commission August 27, 2009

Members Present: Marc Gofstein, Ron Johnson, David Phillips, Gail Shea, Cynda Solberg, Gus Vander Wegen, Donna Vogel Members Absent: Michael Lenz, Marechiel Santos-Lang (excused) Staff and Others Present: Lori Bastean (staff), Ron Chance (Dane Co. Dept. of Human Services), Carl T. Chenowith, Emily Curtis (CACSW), Perry Ecton (Habitat for Humanity), Kate Gaines (Project Home), Rita Giovannoni (Independent Living), Jim Griffin (City of Stoughton), Greta Hansen (CACSW), Julann Jatczak (WWBIC), Robert Lee (Dane Co. Dept. of Human Services), Denise Matyka (Project Home), Dave Merrit (County Executive’s Office), Kate Nardi (DCHA), Carolyn Parham (DCHA), Jan Reek (Project Home), Bob Salov (CACSW), Gloria Salov, Ross Scovotti, Jessica Schmiedicke (Village of DeForest), Laurie Sullivan (City of Stoughton), Greg Sutter, Jenna Wuthrich (staff) Call to Order: Chair Donna Vogel called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Discussion and Action on Minutes of 7/23/2009 Commission Meeting A motion to approve the minutes of the July 23, 2009 Commission meeting was made by David Phillips, seconded by Marc Gofstein. Motion passed unanimously, 5-0. Ron Johnson arrived at 5:33 p.m. Public Comment on Items not on this Agenda There was no public comment. Information Required to be Shared as Part of Public Hearing Lori Bastean, Senior Program Analyst/Manager reviewed the handouts on the CDBG and HOME programs noting that the County receives approximately $1.1 million annually in CDBG funds and slightly over $500,000 in HOME funds. The County intends to expend at least 70% of the funds available for projects that benefit low-and-moderate persons in the Urban County Consortium communities each year. The range of activities and examples of activities funded in the past were reviewed. A map of the Urban County Consortium communities was shared, as well as, information on plans to address residential displacement. The priorities in the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan were pointed out along with the proposed funding allocations. The 2010 Annual Plan funding allocations were reviewed. Comments received to date on the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan and 2010 Action Plan were shared as presented in the packets of materials. Public Hearing for Citizen Comments and Views Regarding the Proposed 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan and 2010 Action Plan The public hearing was called to order by Chair, Donna Vogel at 5:35 p.m. She indicated that after every 10 speakers, CDBG Commission members would be able to ask questions of those who had spoken. Handouts are attached.

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Ron Chance, Dane County Department of Human Services Ron Chance, Community Programs Manager, with the Dane County Department of Human Services read from the attached written statement. Julann Jatczyak, WWBIC Julann Jatczyak with the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiatives Corporation indicated that she would address both the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan and the 2010 Action Plan. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you in sorting through all this; we and our clients are very appreciative. It’s not everything we need, but in today’s economy, that’s not possible. She added that she supports the priority of designating10% of CDBG funds going to economic development in the 5-year plan. I think it is fair and equitable given the current environment. Carolyn Parham, Dane County Housing Authority Carolyn Parham, Executive Director of the Dane County Housing Authority stated that she would address the 2010 Action Plan. I do appreciate the fact that you are considering funding the down payment assistance program, but I’m a bit disappointed there is no funding for the housing resource center. I understand the difficulties with the budget in front of you. I read in the minutes that education paled when compared against other heart wrenching needs. We also hear the difficult stories of people who have lost their homes to foreclosure. We work on both ends of the housing spectrum. You cannot underestimate education; it is powerful. I want to ask consideration to restore some portion of the funding for the Housing Resource Center. Education goes hand-in-hand for the down payment loans component. People who are low-income are often the ones taken advantage of in this environment. Gus Vander Wegen arrived at 5:42 p.m. Rita Giovannoni, Independent Living, Inc. Rita Giovannoni, CEO with Independent Living submitted read from the written comments which are attached. Emily Curtis, Community Action Coalition Emily Curtis, Board President of the Community Action Coalition presented the attached talking points. Greta Hansen, Community Action Coalition Greta Hansen, Executive Director of Community Action Coalition of South Central Wisconsin, Inc. noted that we do serve Dane, Jefferson, and Waukesha counties. I don’t have much to add to Emily’s comments. Life in general boils down to relationships – go to police department, JFF – due to long term relationships we have with the landlords, we can help people remain in their homes. If all people were paid a living wage, we wouldn’t have people losing their homes at the same rate. Crucial that supports are in place that people need. We will see people dying in their cars over the winter. Jessica Schmiedicke, Village of DeForest Jessica Schmiedicke indicated that she was representing the Village of De Forest and their 2020 Plan. The purpose of the plan is to improve and enhance the heart of the downtown. Focused on revitalizing the heart of the downtown area. We want to create a better experience for shoppers. The Village looks forward to working with Project Home. Jan Reek, Project Home Jan Reek, Director of Programs for Project Home spoke from the attached talking points. Kate Nardi, Dane County Housing Authority Kate Nardi, Homeownership Coordinator with the Dane County Housing Authority spoke from the attached letter.

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CDBG Commission members were then able to ask questions of the first ten speakers. The first question was directed to Jan Reek – If we give the money to you how will the money be allocated to those communities? Jan Reek stated that the funds will be used for costs to those communities to pay for home rehabilitation. Cynda Solberg noted that Project Home still had unspent dollars from prior years. Jan Reek replied that if she was talking about funds from 2008, we received our 2008 contract in October, 2008. We have completed 6 jobs will do 4 more. Dave Phillips inquired whether the cities requested this method of funding or did you? Jan Reek commented, “We were surprised that cities were funded and we weren’t. We contacted them, they are interested in having the work done, we came to a mutually agreeable solution for Project Home to run these programs in these communities.” In response to a question from Donna Vogel regarding how the 25% match for HOME funds would be provided, Jan Reek related that some participants will be eligible for rehab public benefit funds, we feel that these will be adequate. Donna Vogel directed a question to Emily Curtis noting that Kay Davis with START had verbally acknowledged giving a portion of their HPRP funds in the amount of $32,000 to CAC. Greta Hansen replied that yes, in a qualified way that was true. START has been awarded about $61,000. When Kay heard we were losing money, they said they could share some of their money with us. Lori is open to exploring a solution; we have to stay within 35% of funds being used for case management/stabilization. Yes, this is a possible partial solution. HPRP funds are specific and have specific guidelines – some risk since these are the not same as CDBG dollars – families may not qualify. Bob Salov, Community Action Coalition Bob Salov stated that in addition to sitting on the Board for the Community Action Coalition, he is a County Board Supervisor representing the eastern side of Dane County which he described as a very rural area. There are 8 municipalities in my district. We had a situation where a resident in the Village had not paid their utility bill for quite some time. We contacted JFF who tried to ameliorate the problem. What I saw was a lack of case management time. In Cambridge, we had a family pull up with all of their belongings in the car. One worker is very tight. The funding for the HRPR program is over a 2-year period. That START was willing to contribute a share of their funds to CAC speaks to the cooperation and unwillingness of one player to let others fall out. Perry Ecton, Habitat for Humanity Perry Ecton, CEO of Habitat for Humanity spoke saying thank you all. Habitat asked for $500,000 and you gave us $147,694. One of the questions you may have is whether we can work with such a decrease between what we asked for and what we received, the answer is yes. We have lots of large-scale projects. There is a huge need in Stoughton and Sun Prairie. We have people on waiting lists out in outlaying areas. Thank you for your support. We will work with whatever we receive. Can we do with what you offer us, yes. The following individuals registered, but did not speak including: Jim Griffin, Mayor of the City of Stoughton – registered in support of the Project Home application. Laurie Sullivan, City of Stoughton – registered in support of the Project Home application. Ross Scovotti, Stoughton – available for information only. Carl T. Chenoweth, Stoughton – available for information only. Robert Lee, Dane County Department of Human Services – registered in support of CDBG recommendation to fund Joining Forces for Families proposal. The written comments received prior to the Public Hearing and presented in packets at the Public Hearing were acknowledged and are included in the minutes as attachments. At 6:28 p.m. there being no further individuals wishing to speak, the public hearing closed.

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Discussion and Action on 2010-2014 Action Plan

MOTION: A motion was made by Dave Phillips, seconded by Ron Johnson to approve the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan as submitted. Motion approved unanimously, 7-0.

Discussion and Action on 2010 Action Plan

MOTION: A motion was made by Ron Johnson, seconded by David Phillips to award the home rehabilitation funds for the Village of De Forest and City of Stoughton to Project Home to be used directly for those two communities. Motion passed, 6-1 with Cynda Solberg voting against the motion.

Donna Vogel noted that the Commission could decide to hold the money and go out via an RFP if members have any doubts of Project’s Home capacity to expend dollars. Ron Johnson noted that it would just be further time and money to go out on RFP. Gail Shea observed that the thing that makes me uncomfortable is the amount of money that Project Home is not able to expend. We took a new tack this time to target money to specific municipalities. I think that is a good thing and we may continue to do so. There are huge waiting lists and all this money to be spent. She added one other point is to be real clear on how money is to be used. There seems to be some confusion that they cannot take money out for admin. Cynda Solberg questioned the lack of spending by Project Home. Jan Reek responded that Project Home has not yet received their 2009 contract. Lori Bastean confirmed that the 2009 allocation amount was received from HUD May 4 and that contracts could not go out prior to that date. Project Home has been spending dollars awarded in 2008 in 2009. Jenna Wuthrich added that Project Home’s 2009 budget was just received this August. Cynda Solberg received an affirmative response to her inquiry if Project Home does not get the money, can we transfer the persons on waiting list? Gail Shea observed that the people who would be impacted would be in Stoughton and DeForest. Kate Gaines noted that they can serve 12 homes in 2010; these would be from funds awarded in 2009. People on the bottom of the waiting list would not be served. An affirmative response was received for a question from Donna Vogel regarding would you take pre-approved people from the waiting list for Stoughton and DeForest off that list. Ron Johnson noted he just wanted to make a comment about the public services area in which we have to disappoint so many agencies. I hope you know that we do value your services. I think the First Time Homebuyer classes and homeless prevention are critical as well. There was a limited pool of money. We are limited by HUD to no more than 15% of money available for distribution. Requests greatly exceeded the funds available. It really came down to JFF against everyone else. One kind of very basic human services….sorry we can’t do more. Donna Vogel added that there were requests for $3,296,702 and only $1.6 million in dollars available. Gail Shea commented, “I am a firm believer in education. I hope that does not mean that DCHA can fund this service. It is a big cut. I hope you can find the money. We have to make choices, it is not an easy one.”

MOTION: A motion was made by Ron Johnson, seconded by Marc Gofstein to approve the 2010 Action Plan as amended in the prior motion. Motion approved unanimously, 7-0.

Presentation of Revolving Fund Application for Holley Moulding, Inc. Due to the need for the owner to provide personal financial statements and information on the required matching funds, this application is not yet ready for consideration.

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Update on Disaster Assistance Funds The State of Wisconsin has been awarded an additional $75 million in disaster assistance funds. The Town of Vienna has expressed interest in doing an acquisition and demolition of a home severely damaged during the 2008 flooding that has since been deemed uninhabitable due to mold. The homeowner has four children. The State Department of Commerce has indicated that it would be possible for the County Executive to request a modification to the current contract that includes Morrisonville to add funds for the Town of Vienna project. The County could then apply for funding for other projects. There is interest from the Town of Perry for a bridge and culvert repair; from the Village of Cambridge for the demolition of the old Hide ‘n Fur that is owned by the Library Board; and from the Town of Roxbury for the reconstruction of two roads and possibly for assistance for demolition of properties around Fish Lake. Adjournment It was moved by Marc Gofstein and seconded by Ron Johnson to adjourn to the September 24, 2009 Commission meeting or at the call of the Chair. Motion carried unanimously 7–0 at 6:50 p.m. Recorded by Lori Bastean Note: These minutes are the notes of the recorder and are subject to change at a subsequent meeting of the Commission.

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Public Hearing Handouts and Oral Testimony

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2010 Annual Plan Written Comments Received for Public Hearing

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-----Original Message----- From: Dan Miller [mailto:danielmiller@kw.com] Sent: Friday, August 21, 2009 6:33 AM To: HS CDBG Progam Mail Subject: Please fund the Dane County Housng Authority first-time home buyer program Importance: High 

To the Community Development Block Grant Commission: 

I'm concerned by the commission's recommendation to cease funding of the Dane County Housing Authority first‐time home buyer seminars ‐ for several reasons. 

First, the seminars offer a no‐nonsense education that is difficult to find anywhere else. As a participant in several previous seminars I've seen how volunteers from the real estate, lending, insurance and home inspection fields work together to educate community members on the home buying and home ownership process. Buying a home can be an overwhelming process, especially for the first‐time home buyer. The DCHA seminars provide community members with a solid foundation for responsible home ownership. At a time when Dane County foreclosures are at an all‐time high, it's the wrong time to be cutting this program. 

Second, the classes educate community members on how they can apply for funds that make home ownership more accessible to people with limited financial means. These public funding programs aim to increase the levels of home ownership for the middle and lower middle classes. Eliminating the DCHA seminars directly contradicts this goal. 

Third, the demand for these classes is huge. I've participated in two classes this year where 40 people were in attendance. People from all over the county and from a variety of backgrounds who spent six hours together learning about and discussing the path to home ownership. A DCHA seminar is a true community and multicultural event. 

Last, the DCHA seminars give back to the community by promoting fiscally responsible home ownership. Dane County has a large inventory of unsold and vacant homes. The DCHA seminars help to fill these homes with new owners who are financially ready and personally very eager for the dream of home ownership. The graduates of the DCHA program help to solidify communities and shore up the tax base. Think of this from a financial perspective alone. Hundreds of people graduate from this program each year, but the program pays for itself after only a small percentage of the graduates enter the world of home ownership. All of the new home owners from this program pay property taxes. At a time when local revenues are lagging, isn't this one of our most pressing community needs? 

Times are tough and there are many deserving programs served by the commission. But the DCHA program is unique. It gives back to the community on so many different levels. Before you decide to cease funding of this program I urge you to reflect on all of the benefits the community will be losing if this program is lost. 

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Thank you, 

Dan Miller, Keller Williams Realty 3 Point Place; Madison, WI; 53719 phone: 608/852-7071; fax: 608/831-0825   web: www.DaneCountyMarket.com my testimonials how we help you buy how we help you sell   

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Dear CDBG Commission, I am a realtor in Madison, WI who heard you are debating whether to cut CDHA home buyer education funding from next year’s budget. I urge you to keep this funding in place as I feel it furthers the goal of providing education and counseling for first time home buyers. Sincerely, Peter Falk 1326 Vilas Avenue Madison, WI 53715

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August 7, 2009 Dear Commission: It has come to my attention that funding for DCHA regarding the home buyers seminar is in question. To not have the funding, it would hurt the local economy as well as violate your #1 Housing Priority of providing housing education and training. Thank you for your consideration. Warmest regards, Laura Croft 409 Greenwood St Monona, WI 53716

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Dear CDBG: Please do not cut funding for the Dane County Housing Authority’s first time home buyer seminars. In this economy, we need first time homebuyers to keep the housing market moving. It is one of the only markets moving and a lynchpin to helping U.S. families get back on their feet. What are the priorities of your own mission? Please fulfill your mission via this program’s funding. Sincerely Kathleen Olson 311 S Mills ST Madison, WI 53715

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Dear Sir/Madame, Concerning your Spanish New Home Buyer Seminar, it is important not to cut your funding per your priorities program. Please continue provide housing education, training & counseling for purchasing and repairing homes. I am a realtor and as a bilingual/bicultural person, I know this program would benefit us in Madison. Thank you kindly, Gloria Mendoza Adams 4779 Windsor Prairie RD DeForest, WI 53532

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To whom it may concern: I am a local realtor and at least half of my business is first time home buyers. Please do not cut any first time home buyer funding. Thank you. Greg Hull RASCW (Realtors Association of South Central Wisconsin) Board of Directors Habitat of Dane County

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-----Original Message----- From: Helen Johnson [mailto:helenj629@charter.net] Sent: Monday, August 24, 2009 11:52 AM To: HS CDBG Progam Mail Cc: McCartney, Ann Subject: comments for public hearing

Dear Commissioners: I had hoped to be able to attend the public hearing on Thursday, but have a conflict. First, I want to thank you for your recommendation that the Friends of the Stoughton Area Youth Center receive a grant for $25,102 in 2010. This money will help us finish the top floor of the building that will allow for indoor basketball, band nights, indoor skate boarding, dances and other activities. We are now having the elevator installed, and have just bid out paving, gutters and downspouts, concrete handicapped entry ramps and will soon advertise for more bids for the sprinkler system. The interior is now drywalled, and we have donations of tile for the kitchen area and rest rooms. Please feel free to contact me if you are in the area and would like to visit the site. Thanks again for your support. Helen Johnson Member, Grants Administrator Friends of the Stoughton Area Youth Center

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2010-2015 Consolidated Plan Written Comments Received for Public Hearing

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-----Original Message----- From: Hulsey, Brett forward Sent: Monday, August 17, 2009 9:31 PM To: Bastean, Lori; Vogel, Donna; Green, Lynn Subject: RE: CDBG 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan and 2010 Action Plan

Donna, Lynn, Lori,   Looks good.   Liked adding the energy efficiency measures and micro loans.   I would just add the restoration of blighted properties if possible to reduce demolition.  Brett