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2023
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2. Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and consultations
Agency/Group/
Organization
Agency/Group/Organization
Type
What section of
the Plan was
addressed by
Consultation?
Briefly describe how the
Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the
anticipated outcomes of the
consultation or areas for
improved coordination?
2-1-1 San Diego Community Information
Exchange (CIE)
Needs Assessment
Housing Market
Analysis
Provided localized data to inform
the Consolidated Plan.
County of San
Diego
County government – Health
and Human Services Agency,
Housing and Community
Development Services, Office of
Emergency Services
Needs Assessment
Housing Market
Analysis
Consulted with various agencies at
the county government to inform
development of Consolidated Plan
Legal Aid Society
of San Diego
Fair housing legal service
provider
Needs Assessment
Housing Market
Analysis
Interviewed staff about fair
housing needs and challenges in
San Diego
Regional Task
Force on the
Homeless
Continuum of Care Needs Assessment
Market Analysis
Interviewed staff about
homelessness needs and
challenges.
Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting No single agency or organization was purposely excluded from providing input on the Consolidated Plan.
Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan?
City of La Mesa Housing Element,
2021-2028
City of La Mesa This Consolidated Plan conforms to the
adopted City of La Mesa Housing Element,
2021-2028
Climate Action Plan City of La Mesa A Climate Action Plan to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Table 3 - Other local / regional / federal planning efforts
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AP-12 Participation - 91.401, 91.105, 91.200(c)
1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting Citizen participation is a key component of the consolidated planning process. The City of La Mesa follows an adopted Citizen Participation Plan to ensure meaningful community involvement at each step. To obtain public input early in the development of the Action Plan, the City Council conducted a public hearing on March 14, 2023. Notice was published in the Daily Transcript, a newspaper of general circulation. At the hearing, the City Council reaffirmed CDBG program goals and priorities established in the Consolidated Plan and considered options for allocating anticipated resources. A copy of the public hearing notice is published in the appendix.
Input received at the first CDBG hearing was incorporated into the draft 2022-2023 Action Plan. The plan was made available for public review on the City’s website and at the La Mesa Public Library. Notice of the 30-day public review period and second hearing was published in the Daily Transcript on March 24, 2023 and mailed to a list of 20 local agencies and organizations.
The Consolidated Plan, amendments, Annual Action Plans and performance reports will be available for five years at La Mesa City Hall
Citizen Participation Outreach
Sort
Order
Mode of
Outreach
Target of
Outreach
Summary of
response/
attendance
Summary of
comments
received
Summary of
comments
not accepted
and reasons
URL (If
applicable)
1 Newspaper
Ad
Nontargeted/broad
community
N/A N/A
2 Mailing Nontargeted/broad
community
N/A N/A
3 Public
hearing
Nontargeted/broad
community
N/A N/A
Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach
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Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources - 91.420(b), 91.220(c)(1,2)
Introduction
The City’s allocation for Program Year 2023-2024 is expected to be approximately $478,231, which is consistent with prior year funding levels. Program Year 2023-2024 is Year 4 of the 2020-2025 Consolidated Planning period.
Anticipated Resources
Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 4 Expected Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
Narrative
Annual Description
Allocation:
Program
Income:
Prior Year
Resources:
Total:
CDBG Public
Federal
Acquisition,
Administration
and Planning,
Economic
Development,
Housing,
Public
Improvements,
Public Services
$478,231 $478,231 $421,012 Estimated
funding available
over the
planning period
is based on
2020-21
allocation,
excluding funds
carried over
from prior years
Table 5 - Expected Resources – Priority Table
Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied The City has been successful in obtaining grants and identifying other funds to commit to Consolidated Plan priorities for capital improvement projects. In 2021, the City received $3 million in State Parks and Recreation funding for Collier Park Master Plan improvements. La Mesa Park & Recreation funds were also used to resurface and restripe the tennis court in Collier Park for dual use as a pickleball court.
In recent years, the City has received $10.4 million in grant funding towards bike and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, much of which has been located in low-moderate income neighborhoods or adjacent to schools serving low-moderate income areas. The West La Mesa Street Improvement Project, a $6 million undertaking, completed a new road, Junior High Drive, completed missing sidewalk links, and provided over five miles of new Class II or Class III bike lanes adjacent to Helix High School and
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La Mesa Arts Academy, which are within walking distance of and served by surrounding CDBG-eligible neighborhoods. The City actively applies for grants to complete infrastructure projects in low-moderate income neighborhoods.
If appropriate, describe publicly owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Activities to be funded include improvements to a City-owned public park, street improvements, and sidewalk improvements. Collier Park is a publicly-owned local park located in a CDBG-eligible neighborhood. Right-of-way, including portions of Pasadena Avenue, Palm Avenue, and 4th Street, extend through and around the park. Portions of the adjacent streets are improved with curb, gutter and sidewalks. Pasadena Avenue, which runs through the park, lacks sidewalks, curb and gutter.
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Annual Goals and Objectives
AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives - 91.420, 91.220(c)(3)&(e) Goals Summary Information
Sort
Order
Goal Name Start
Year
End
Year
Category Geographic
Area
Needs
Addressed
Funding Goal Outcome
Indicator
1 Improve
Facilities and
Infrastructure
2020 2025 Non-Housing
Community
Development
Improve
Facilities and
Infrastructure
CDBG:
$392,231
Public Facility or
Infrastructure
Activities other than
Low/Moderate
Income Housing
Benefit: 28530
Persons Assisted
2 Fair Housing 2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Non-Homeless
Special Needs
Fair Housing CDBG:
$30,000
Public service
activities other than
Low/Moderate
Income Housing
Benefit: 100
Persons Assisted
3 Planning and
Administration
2020 2025 Administration Planning and
Administration
CDBG:
$50,000
4 Conserve the
Housing Stock
2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Planning and
Administration
CDBG:
$6,000
Table 6 – Goals Summary
Goal Descriptions
Goal Name Goal Description
Improve Facilities and
Infrastructure
Improve and provide public and community facilities, and make necessary infrastructure improvements to serve low- and moderate-income persons.
Fair Housing Provide fair housing services to foster equal housing opportunity.
Planning and Administration Program regulations allow the expenditure of up to 20 percent of the annual allocation to support program administration and planning activities. For the past two years, the City has committed 10-15 percent of the annual grant to fund staff and other administrative costs.
Conserve the Housing Stock Manage the housing rehabilitation loan program. Although there are currently no new loans being granted, there are administrative costs associated with monitoring the loan portfolio and processing loan pay-off paperwork.
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AP-35 Projects - 91.420, 91.220(d)
Introduction
This plan outlines the action steps that the City will use to address housing and community development needs in the City. The plan includes a listing of activities the City will undertake during FY 2023-2024, utilizing a CDBG funding allocation of $478,231.
# Project Name
1 Collier Park Improvements Phase 2
2 Nancy Drive Improvements
3 Sidewalk Improvements
4 Fair Housing (CSA San Diego County)
5 Program Administration
6 Housing Rehabilitation Program Administration
Table 7 – Project Information
Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs
The primary obstacle to meeting underserved needs is the lack of financial and staff resources. Each year, the City Council selects high priority projects for funding. Other projects, which are high priority and are important to the City’s community development goals, are not funded. In spite of limited financial resources, the City strives to successfully complete at least one high priority community development project each year.
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AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information
1 Project Name Collier Park Improvements Phase 2
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Needs Addressed Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $ 167,231
Description CDBG has long supported rehabilitation efforts at Collier Park. A need was identified by the community to create a safer, more active use park with improved connections to the neighborhood. Following adoption of the Collier Park Renovations Project Master Plan in 2015, Phase I improvements were completed in 2018 and included grading, new hardscape, new landscape, and irrigation improvements to the panhandle portion of the park, near the park entry. Implementation of the master plan is continuing.
Phase 2, which includes grading and landscaping, new restroom facilities, additional parking, roadway improvements, and security upgrades in the heart of the park, is under construction.
Funding sources include prior year CDBG allocations totaling $1.7 million, leveraged with $3 million in State Parks and Recreation funding, Proposition 68 funds, and local park funds.
Target Date June 2024
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
An estimated 28,530 persons are expected to benefit from this project.
Location Description Collier Park, 4401 Palm Avenue, La Mesa, 91941 Planned Activities FY 2023-2024 CDBG funds will be used to complete Phase 2 improvements. The scope of work includes including eligible excavation, hardscape, landscaping, irrigation, lighting, a pedestrian trail, and slope treatments.
2 Project Name Nancy Drive Street Improvements
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
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Needs Addressed Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $150,000
Description Nancy Drive is located in an eligible neighborhood. Water runoff has caused the road surface to degrade. To prevent further deterioration of the street surface, installation of concrete gutter extensions is proposed. The gutter extensions will provide a greater drainage surface.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
An estimated 1,100 persons are expected to benefit from this activity.
Location Description City of La Mesa
Planned Activities A CDBG allocation of $75,00 will allow for installation of concrete gutter extensions, followed by milling and paving of the street. 3 Project Name Sidewalk Improvements
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Needs Addressed Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $75,000
Description The City’s Sidewalk Master Plan Map identifies streets where pedestrian connectivity needs improvement. Eligible areas where sidewalk gaps occur include portions of Aztec Drive, Gateside Road, and Amarillo Avenue.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
An estimated 5,460 persons are expected to benefit from this activity.
Location Description City of La Mesa
Planned Activities A CDBG allocation of $75,000 will allow for completion of priority sidewalk segments in low-moderate residential neighborhoods.
Locations will be selected based on walking safety and presence of hazards with higher priority given to locations close to transit, schools, parks, and public interests.
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4 Project Name Fair Housing (CSA San Diego County)
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Fair Housing / Planning and Administration Needs Addressed Fair Housing / Planning and Administration Funding CDBG: $30,000
Description The Center for Social Advocacy (CSA) of San Diego County provides fair housing services to the City.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
An estimated 100 persons are expected to benefit from this activity.
Location Description City of La Mesa
Planned Activities Each year, the City must certify to HUD that the City is affirmatively furthering fair housing. The contract with CSA San Diego County helps the City meet this CDBG implementation requirement. The City's contribution to CSA, combined with that of several other jurisdictions including the Cities of El Cajon, Santee, National City, and Chula Vista, supports this organization and furthers fair housing goals within La Mesa and the region.
5 Project Name Program Administration
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Planning and Administration
Needs Addressed Planning and Administration
Funding CDBG: $50,000
Description CDBG Administration is the responsibility of the Housing and Development Division of the Community Development Department.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
N/A
Location Description N/A
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Planned Activities Administrative activities include preparing annual plans and reports, public outreach, environmental review of projects, labor compliance monitoring, contract administration, subrecipient monitoring, and fair housing testing. Staff also maintains and updates the low-moderate eligible areas map.
6 Project Name Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program Administration Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Planning and Administration / Conserve the Housing Stock Needs Addressed Planning and Administration / Conserve the Housing Stock Funding CDBG: $6,000
Description Loan portfolio management for the housing rehabilitation program.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
N/A
Location Description N/A
Planned Activities Although no new loans are being granted, there are administrative costs associated with monitoring the loan portfolio and processing loan pay-off paperwork.
Annual Action Plan
2023
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AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.420, 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed The City is committed to a policy that uses CDBG funds to construct public improvements that benefit lower income neighborhoods or special needs populations. While there is some overlap between lower income neighborhoods and neighborhoods with minority concentrations, the City does not use minority concentration as a basis for distribution of assistance.
Geographic Distribution
Target Area Percentage of Funds
N/A
Table 8 - Geographic Distribution
Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically Priorities for allocation are based on community outreach efforts and consultation meetings developed under the Citizen Participation process and approved by the City Council. Identified needs have historically included improving aging infrastructure systems, improving park facilities, and affordable housing. With an area of only nine square miles, the relatively small size of the community precludes the need to establish specific Target Areas.
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AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing -91.420, 91.220(j) Introduction
Public policies can have a negative effect on the development of affordable housing and residential investment. Public policies with potential negative effects include the complex approval process, permitting and other costs that add to project expenses and most importantly, zoning ordinances that inhibit affordable housing development, conversion or rehabilitation.
Actions planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment
Individual municipalities have little influence over market constraints, but are well-positioned to provide incentives or assistance to help overcome the impacts of market constraints. Governmental constraints to affordable housing development include land use policies in the General Plan, zoning and development codes, development and planning fees, and growth management policies. The City’s Housing Element was adopted by the City Council on July 27, 2021, in accordance with State Housing Element Law. The Housing Element provides policy direction over an eight-year planning period. The Housing Element identifies and provides solutions to address governmental constraints affecting the maintenance, improvement, and development of all types of housing, including emergency shelters, transitional housing, supportive housing, and single-room occupancy (SRO) units.
A number of recent actions have been taken by the City to reduce barriers to affordable housing. In 2017, the City adopted an Affordable Homes Bonus Program to implement State density bonus regulations. In 2019, the City adopted accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) ordinances to encourage new ADU development as an effective means to provide affordable housing. Those policies are regularly updated to stay current with State law. The City does not charge sewer connection fees for ADUs, waives sewer fees for any deed-restricted affordable unit, and waives sewer and park fees for all units in 100 percent deed-restricted affordable projects. In 2022, the City adopted new regulations allowing for two-unit development and urban lot splits in single-family zones, consistent with State law.
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AP-85 Other Actions - 91.420, 91.220(k)
Introduction
Program goals established in the 2020-2025 Consolidated Plan, which form the basis for establishing objectives and outcomes in the 2023-2024 Action Plan, are as follows:
Goal 1 – Improve public facilities and infrastructure to promote a healthy and vibrant city environment.
Goal 2 – Promote equitable access to affordable housing through preservation of existing units, assistance to homeowners, and fair housing services.
Goal 3 – Create programs to prevent and address homelessness and provide access to services.
Goal 4 – Provide local community services to support low- and moderate-income households.
These four goals represent the needs that emerged during the development of the Consolidated Plan and specifically address the use of CDBG and HOME funds in La Mesa. Infrastructure was the top priority of survey respondents.
Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs The City proactively pursues grant funding from a variety of private and public sources. Over the past five years, the City has been awarded several grants for street improvements that help address safe routes to school in CDBG eligible areas. In FY 2018-19, the City received four Local Highway Safety Improvement Program grants totaling $1,014,000, two Active Transportation Program Capital Grants totaling $625,000, and one SANDAG Smart Growth Incentive Program Planning Grant for $169,000. These recently awarded funds were to be used to improve pedestrian and bike safety and promote walkability citywide, including in and adjacent to CDBG eligible neighborhoods. The West La Mesa Street Improvement Project, a $6 million undertaking, completes a new road, Junior High Drive, completed missing sidewalk links and provides over five miles of new Class II or Class III bike lanes adjacent to Helix High School and La Mesa Arts Academy, which are within walking distance of and served by surrounding CDBG eligible neighborhoods.
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2023
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Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing The Community Development Department is responsible for the City’s housing programs. Staff is assigned to monitor the status of one “at-risk” apartment project, to manage the housing rehabilitation loan portfolio, and to work with the private sector to encourage the development of new housing that includes affordable units.
In 2017 the City adopted an Affordable Homes Bonus Program to implement a State density bonus program to incentivize housing development across all income levels. The program is popular with marketrate developers eager to achieve additional housing density. The City has also adopted, and regularly updates, ADU and JADU ordinances to comply with State regulations. Interest in ADU development remains high and will continue to be an effective tool for providing naturally affordable housing for the foreseeable future. The City does not charge sewer connection fees for ADUs, waives sewer fees for any deed-restricted affordable unit, and waives sewer and park fees for all units in 100 percent deed-restricted affordable projects. In 2022, the City adopted policies allowing for two-unit development and urban lot splits in single-family zones consistent with State law. Other ongoing policy updates to promote housing affordability are planned over the next six years as part of the City’s Housing Element implementation.
Currently, construction is underway on a 100 percent affordable apartment project in the Downtown Village on the former site of the City’s police station. The 1.27-acre site will be developed with 147 deedrestricted affordable units.
Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards
The City of La Mesa Building Department provides information to the public regarding lead-based paint regulations promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency. A handout notifies building department customers of the requirement to hire a lead certified contractor. A slide with contact information for the EPA lead safe housing program and the need to hire qualified contractor is broadcast on the City’s government access channel and posted on the City’s website.
Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families As a small city, La Mesa's actions have little direct impact on reducing the number of families living below the poverty level. The impacts County, State and Federal government policies have a much greater impact.
However, the existing housing stock in La Mesa remains relatively affordable and the City continues to support the production of new affordable housing.
The City has adopted an Economic Development Strategy to define policies and programs to retain and expand local business opportunity. This long-term project is aimed at providing a full spectrum of jobs in the community, which could have a positive impact on very low-income families.
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Actions planned to develop institutional structure
The Community Development Department is responsible for implementing the City's housing programs.
The Current Planning division handles the processing of new development proposals. CDBG administration and the housing program are the responsibilities of the Housing and Development division.
The Building division is responsible for housing codes and compliance activities.
The established institutional structure is working effectively. City staff will continue to maintain the established institutional structure and evaluate future improvements through multiple avenues, including the City’s process improvement team.
Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies
The Community Development Department will continue efforts to foster cooperation between City departments, neighboring cities, the County of San Diego, the San Diego Association of Governments, the Board of the Metropolitan Transit System, other public agencies, organizations and the citizens and business community of La Mesa. The City will work closely with MTS staff to maintain and improve the high level of transit services currently enjoyed by residents of La Mesa, including trolley and fixed route bus services.
The City engages with a number of community stakeholder groups to ensure community needs are addressed. Some of these groups are sponsored by the City, including, the Planning Commission, the Design Review Board, the Historic Preservation Commission, the Mobility Commission, the Commission on Aging, the Environmental Sustainability Commission, the Parking Commission, and the Youth Advisory Commission. Other groups are private non-profit organizations promoting their area of interest, such as the La Mesa Village Association, La Mesa Beautiful, and the La Mesa History Center.
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Program Specific Requirements
AP-90 Program Specific Requirements - 91.420, 91.220(l)(1,2,4) Introduction
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)
Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(1)
Projects planned with all CDBG funds expected to be available during the year are identified in the Projects Table. The following identifies program income that is available for use that is included in projects to be carried out.
1. The total amount of program income that will have been received before the start of the next program year and that has not yet been reprogrammed $0
2. The amount of proceeds from section 108 loan guarantees that will be used during the year to address the priority needs and specific objectives identified in the grantee's strategic plan
$0
3. The amount of surplus funds from urban renewal settlements $0
4. The amount of any grant funds returned to the line of credit for which the planned use has not been included in a prior statement or plan. $0
5. The amount of income from float-funded activities $0 Total Program Income $0
Other CDBG Requirements
1. The amount of urgent need activities $0
Annual Action Plan
2022
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Annual Action Plan
2022
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Contents
Executive Summary.......................................................................................................................................3 AP-05 Executive Summary - 91.200(c), 91.220(b) ....................................................................................3 PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies - 91.200(b) ......................................................................................6 AP-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l) ...................................................................................7 AP-12 Participation - 91.401, 91.105, 91.200(c).....................................................................................10 Expected Resources....................................................................................................................................11 AP-15 Expected Resources - 91.420(b), 91.220(c)(1,2) ..........................................................................11 Annual Goals and Objectives......................................................................................................................13 AP-35 Projects - 91.420, 91.220(d) .........................................................................................................15 AP-38 Project Summary ..........................................................................................................................16 AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.420, 91.220(f) ................................................................................19 AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing -91.420, 91.220(j)........................................................................20 AP-85 Other Actions - 91.420, 91.220(k) ................................................................................................21 Program Specific Requirements..................................................................................................................24
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Executive Summary
AP-05 Executive Summary - 91.200(c), 91.220(b)
1. Introduction
Program Year 3 Action Plan Executive Summary
The 2022-2023 Action Plan implements the fourth year of the City of La Mesa’s 2020-2025 Consolidated Plan under the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) program. The Plan designates the City’s funding allocations for CDBG housing and community development programs and activities.
La Mesa participates in the Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) program as a member of the San Diego County HOME Consortium administered directly by the County of San Diego Housing and Community Development Department. The Consortium’s HOME-funded Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program is available to current and future La Mesa residents.
2. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan The Action Plan addresses outcome performance measures identified in the Consolidated Plan. Individual activities are selected in accordance the provisions of Federal Register Vol. 71, No. 44, Notice of Outcome Performance Measurement System for Community Planning and Development Formula Grant Programs, dated March 7, 2006, which requires specific Performance Measure Objectives and Outcomes to be associated with each activity funded:
General Objective Categories- Activities will meet one of the following:
• Decent Housing (DH)
• A Suitable Living Environment (SL)
• Economic Opportunity (EO) General
Outcome Categories- Activities will meet one of the following:
• Availability/Accessibility (1)
• Affordability (2)
• Sustainability (3)
CDBG funds alone are insufficient to address the many and varied community needs identified through public outreach and summarized in the Needs Assessment section of the Consolidated Plan. Recognizing the objectives of the funding program and specific program regulations, the City uses CDBG funds to carry out programs and projects that provide decent housing and a suitable living environment benefitting primarily low- and moderate-income households and those with special needs. Needs determined to be a High Priority will receive funding during this five-year planning period. Low Priority Needs may be funded based on the availability of funds.
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Strategic Plan goals outlined in the 2020-2025 Consolidated Plan guide investments in La Mesa’s low- and moderate-income communities and form the basis for establishing objectives and outcomes in the 2023- 2024 Action Plan. These four goals reflect the needs identified during Consolidated Planning process.
Infrastructure emerged as the top priority of survey respondents:
Goal 1 – Improve public facilities and infrastructure to promote a healthy and vibrant city environment.
Goal 2 – Promote equitable access to affordable housing through preservation of existing units, assistance to homeowners, and fair housing services.
Goal 3 – Create programs to prevent and address homelessness and provide access to services.
Goal 4 – Provide local community services to support low- and moderate-income households.
3. Evaluation of past performance
The City has successfully implemented housing and community development activities in the previous Consolidated Plan cycle, reaching thousands of low- and moderate-income individuals. The City focuses its CDBG resources on infrastructure projects and, having completed eight projects in recent years, has made a significant impact in the community. Through the Center for Social Advocacy San Diego (CSA), the City’s fair housing service provider, 450 La Mesa residents were provided with fair housing services over the past five years.
The City’s affordable housing objective is to provide homeownership opportunities using HOME funds available through the County HOME Consortium. In prior years, the City also issued loans to lower-income homeowners through its Housing Rehabilitation Program, of which ten loans are outstanding. No recent loans have been issued due to limited availability of funds.
The need for public services in the community is extensive, but limited CDBG resources have impacted the City’s ability to simultaneously fund capital improvements and public services. The City Council has established a policy guideline that suspends the public service program if the City’s annual CDBG funding allocation is below $450,000. One exception to this policy is that the City may pursue funding for homeless services. The City will also continue to support fair housing services such as those that have been provided by CSA. CSA assists people experiencing housing discrimination.
CDBG funds have primarily supported multi-year improvement projects in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Collier Park and Vista La Mesa Park are examples of complex, phased infrastructure rehabilitation projects. In 2016-17, the City completed three large undertakings and restored timeliness.
Due to rising construction costs and COVID-related delays, completion of the Collier Park Improvements Project has been deferred to the 2022-23 program year. As the majority of CDBG funds are allocated to this undertaking, it is critical that the City complete this project to meet timeliness expectations.
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In evaluating past performance, the City recognizes that even relatively small projects are multi-year undertakings requiring multiple funding sources, which makes achieving and maintaining timeliness an ongoing challenge.
4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process The City’s adopted Citizen Participation Plan drives the community engagement process and sets requirements for notification of community meetings, public hearings, and public review periods in accordance with Federal regulations set forth in 24 CFR 91.105.
Two noticed public hearings were conducted in the formulation of the 2022-23 Annual Action Plan. Notice of a 30-day public review period and public hearing was published in the Daily Transcript on March 25, 2022. Notice of the first hearing was published in the Daily Transcript on March 9, 2022. Public hearings were held on March 22, 2022, and on April 26, 2022. Public comments are encouraged and all input is considered in the formulation of CDBG needs, priorities, projects, and activities. An amendment was introduced at City Council at a noticed public hearing held on March 14, 2023. Notice of a 30-day public review period was published in the Daily Transcript on March 24, 2023.
5. Summary of public comments
A significant amount of qualitative feedback on community needs was collected through community meetings, stakeholder consultations, a public comment period, and at formal public hearings during the development of the Consolidated Plan. Those comments provided insight into community needs and informed the CDBG program goals as well as the 2022-23 Action Plan. Priority needs were identified as infrastructure, community facilities, housing, homelessness, and transportation. Formal public comments for the Consolidated Plan were heard at meetings of the City Council and during a public comment period.
6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them All public comments were accepted and addressed in the Consolidated Plan and subsequent Annual Action Plan review.
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PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies - 91.200(b)
1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.
Agency Role Name Department/Agency
CDBG Administrator LA MESA Community Development
Department
Table 1 – Responsible Agencies
Narrative
Community Development Department staff are responsible for preparing and administering La Mesa’s consolidated plan.
Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
City of La Mesa
Community Development Department
8130 Allison Avenue
La Mesa, CA 91942
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2022
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AP-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)
1. Introduction
The City collaborates with other government and not-for-profit entities in the region to address the needs of low- and moderate-income residents. These efforts include being a member of the County of San Diego’s HOME Consortium and participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program through the County of San Diego. City staff also works closely with the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency and other nonprofit health and mental health providers.
Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(l)).
Close cooperation between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health, and service agencies is crucial to providing coordinated assistance, leveraging resources, and eliminating duplication of services. Although the City is not a housing agency and has limited interaction with public and assisted housing providers, staff does encourage and collaboration whenever possible. During the community engagement process carried out in the development of the Consolidated Plan, the City consulted with housing, health, mental health, and other agencies and businesses at community meetings, through interviews and an online survey. The outreach list was comprised of 187 agencies and organizations, including:
• Nonprofit service providers that cater to the needs of low- and moderate-income households and persons with special needs, including persons with disabilities; • Affordable housing providers;
• Housing advocates;
• Housing professionals;
• Public agencies (such as school districts, health services, public works); • Economic development and employment organizations; and • Community and neighborhood groups.
Additionally, City representatives actively participate in regional planning and coordination efforts.
Affiliations include:
• San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), San Diego County’s federally recognized metropolitan planning organization (MPO)
• Regional Task Force on the Homeless (RTFH), the region’s HUD Continuum of Care (CoC) • San Diego Regional Alliance for Fair Housing
• Quarterly meetings of local CDBG program administrators As of 2018, entitlement jurisdictions must account for narrowing the digital divide and increasing resilience to natural hazards. To do so, the City consulted with 2-1-1 San Diego, the region’s community information exchange, to understand the efforts throughout San Diego County to narrow the digital divide
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2022
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and bring broadband internet service to a broader swath of the population, especially low- and moderateincome communities.
Lastly, RTFH and the City’s fair housing service provider, CSA, were both interviewed in developing the Consolidated Plan. The City will continue to maintain partnerships with these and other agencies to achieve long-term housing and community development goals.
Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness.
The City works closely with RTFH on coordinated activities such as the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count and provides ongoing support for services and shelters serving those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The PIT provides an opportunity for the community to identify and engage with those experiencing homelessness. The 2022 PIT counted a total 53 homeless individuals representing three percent of the total homeless population in East San Diego County. Of the 53 individuals counted, 35 were unsheltered.
In developing the Consolidated Plan, RTFH was interviewed to provide insight on the challenges and progress on homelessness in the region and in La Mesa.
In response to community concerns and increasing need, the City created a Citizens Taskforce on Homelessness in 2019. Out of that taskforce came the Homeless Outreach and Mobile Engagement Program. Launched in 2020 and partially funded with CDBG CARES Act funding, the locally-managed program provides trained specialists, including a full-time outreach worker and mental health clinician, to offer services and housing opportunities to those in need.
Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction’s area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards for and evaluate outcomes of projects and activities assisted by ESG funds, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the operation and administration of HMIS The City of La Mesa does not administer ESG funds; however, City staff did consult with RTFH in developing the 2020-25 Consolidated Plan.
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2. Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and consultations
Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting No single agency or organization was purposely excluded from providing input on the Consolidated Plan.
Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the
goals of each plan?
City of La Mesa Housing Element,
2021-2028
City of La Mesa This Consolidated Plan conforms to
the adopted City of La Mesa
Housing Element, 2021-2028
Climate Action Plan City of La Mesa A Climate Action Plan to mitigate the impacts of climate
change.
Table 3 - Other local / regional / federal planning efforts Organization Agency/Group/Organization
What Section of the
Plan was addressed by
consultation?
Briefly describe how the
organization was
consulted. What are the
anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas
of improved coordination?
2-1-1 San Diego Community Information
Exchange (CIE)
Needs Assessment
Housing Market
Analysis
Provided localized data to
inform the ConPlan.
County of San Diego County government – Health
and Human Services Agency,
Housing and Community
Development Services, Office
of Emergency Services
Needs Assessment
Housing Market
Analysis
Consulted with various
agencies at the county
government to inform
development of ConPlan
Legal Aid Society of
San Diego
Fair housing legal service
provider
Needs Assessment
Housing Market
Analysis
Interviewed staff about fair
housing needs and
challenges in San Diego
Regional Task Force
on the Homeless
Continuum of Care Needs Assessment
Market Analysis
Interviewed staff about
homelessness needs and
challenges.
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AP-12 Participation - 91.401, 91.105, 91.200(c)
1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting Citizen participation is a key component of the consolidated planning process. The City of La Mesa follows an adopted Citizen Participation Plan to ensure meaningful community involvement at each step. To obtain public input early in the development of the Action Plan, the City Council conducted a public hearing on March 22, 2022. Notice was published in the Daily Transcript, a newspaper of general circulation. At the hearing, the City Council reaffirmed CDBG program goals and priorities established in the Consolidated Plan and considered options for allocating anticipated resources. A copy of the public hearing notice is published in the appendix.
Input received at the first CDBG hearing was incorporated into the draft 2022-23 Action Plan. The plan was made available for public review on the City’s website and at the La Mesa Public Library. Notice of the public review period and second hearing was published in the Daily Transcript on March 25, 2022 and mailed to a list of 20 local agencies and organizations. An amendment was introduced at a noticed City Council public hearing held on March 14, 2023 and adopted at a public hearing held on April 25, 2023.
Notice of a 30-day public review period was published in the Daily Transcript on March 24, 2023.
The Consolidated Plan, amendments, Annual Action Plans and performance reports will be available for five years at La Mesa City Hall.
Citizen Participation Outreach
Sort
Order
Mode of
Outreach
Target of
Outreach
Summary of
Response/
attendance
Summary of
comments
received
Summary of
comments
not
accepted
and reasons
URL (If
applicable)
1 Newspaper
Ad
Nontargeted/broad
community
N/A N/A
2 Mailing Nontargeted/broad
community
N/A N/A
3 Public
hearing
Nontargeted/broad
community
N/A N/A
Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach
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Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources - 91.420(b), 91.220(c)(1,2)
Introduction
The City’s allocation for Program Year 2022-23 is expected to be approximately $450,000, which is consistent with prior year funding levels. Program Year 2022-23 is Year 3 of the 2020-2025 Consolidated Planning period.
Anticipated Resources
Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 3 Expected Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
Narrative
Annual Description
Allocation
Program
Income
Prior Year
Resources
Total
CDBG public -
federal
Acquisition
Admin and
Planning
Economic
Development
Housing
Public
Improvements
Public Services
$435,060 $46,441 $30,000 $511,501 $899,243 Estimated
funding
available over
the planning
period is based
on 2020-21
allocation,
excluding
funds carried
over from prior
years
Table 5 - Expected Resources – Priority Table
Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied The City has been successful in obtaining grants and identifying other funds to commit to Consolidated Plan priorities for capital improvement projects. In 2021, the City received $3 million in State Parks and Recreation funding for Collier Park Master Plan improvements. La Mesa Park & Recreation funds were also used to resurface and restripe the tennis court in Collier Park for dual use as a pickleball court.
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In recent years the City has received $10.4 million in grant funding towards bike and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, much of which has been located in low-moderate income neighborhoods or adjacent to schools serving low-moderate income areas. The West La Mesa Street Improvement Project, a $6 million undertaking, completed a new road, Junior High Drive, completed missing sidewalk links, and provided over five miles of new Class II or Class III bike lanes adjacent to Helix High School and La Mesa Arts Academy, which are within walking distance of and served by surrounding CDBG eligible neighborhoods.
The City actively applies for grants to complete infrastructure projects in low-moderate income neighborhoods.
If appropriate, describe publicly owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Activities to be funded include improvements to a City-owned public park and related street improvements. Collier Park is a publicly-owned local park located in a CDBG-eligible neighborhood. Rightof-way, including portions of Pasadena Avenue, Palm Avenue, and 4th Street, extend through and around the park. Portions of the adjacent streets are improved with curb, gutter and sidewalks. Pasadena Avenue, which runs through the park, lacks sidewalks, curb and gutter.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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Annual Goals and Objectives
AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives - 91.420, 91.220(c)(3)&(e) Goals Summary Information
Sort
Order
Goal Name Start
Year
End
Year
Category Geographic
Area
Needs
Addressed
Funding Goal Outcome
Indicator
1 Improve
Facilities and
Infrastructure
2020 2025 Non-Housing
Community
Development
Improve
Facilities and
Infrastructure
CDBG:
$455,501
Public Facility or
Infrastructure
Activities other than
Low/Moderate
Income Housing
Benefit: 28530
Persons Assisted
2 Fair Housing 2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Non-Homeless
Special Needs
Fair Housing CDBG:
$30,000
Public service
activities other than
Low/Moderate
Income Housing
Benefit: 100 Persons
Assisted
3 Planning and
Administration
2020 2025 Administration Planning and
Administration
CDBG:
$40,000
4 Conserve the
Housing Stock
2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Planning and
Administration
CDBG:
$6,000
Table 6 – Goals Summary
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Goal Descriptions
1 Goal Name Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Goal
Description
Improve and provide public and community facilities, and make necessary infrastructure improvements to serve low- and moderate-income persons. 2 Goal Name Fair Housing
Goal
Description
Provide fair housing services to foster equal housing opportunity. 3 Goal Name Planning and Administration
Goal
Description
Program regulations allow the expenditure of up to 20 percent of the annual allocation to support program administration and planning activities. For the past two years, the City has committed 10-15 percent of the annual grant to fund staff and other administrative costs
4 Goal Name Conserve the Housing Stock
Goal
Description
Manage the housing rehabilitation loan program. Although there are currently no new loans being granted, there are administrative costs associated with monitoring the loan portfolio and processing loan pay-off paperwork.
Prior to 2014, as a participant of the County's HOME consortium, the City of La Mesa directly received a small allocation of HOME funds for the City's affordable housing activities. HUD revisions to the program now require consortia lead agencies to deliver funds directly to HOME beneficiaries, eligible low-income households. The City no longer receives its specific allocation of HOME funds from the County.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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AP-35 Projects - 91.420, 91.220(d)
Introduction
This Action Plan outlines the action steps that the City will use to address housing and community development needs in the City. The Plan includes a listing of projects the City will undertake during FY 2022-2023, utilizing CDBG funds. For FY 2022-23, the City’s CDBG allocation is $435,060, plus program income in the amount of $46,441 and prior year funds in the amount of $50,000. # Project Name
1 Collier Park Improvements Phase 2
2 Fair Housing (CSA San Diego County)
3 Program Administration
4 Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program Administration
Table 7 – Project Information
Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs
The primary obstacle to meeting underserved needs is the lack of financial and staff resources. Each year, the City Council selects high priority projects for funding. Other projects, which are high priority and are important to the City’s community development goals, are not funded. In spite of limited financial resources, the City strives to successfully complete at least one high priority community development project each year.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information
1 Project Name Collier Park Improvements Phase 2
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Needs Addressed Improve Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $ 455,501
Description CDBG has long supported rehabilitation efforts at Collier Park. A need was identified by the community to create a safer, more active use park with improved connections to the neighborhood. Following adoption of the Collier Park Renovations Project Master Plan in 2015, Phase I improvements were completed in 2018. The Phase I scope included grading, new hardscape, new landscape, and irrigation improvements to the panhandle portion of the park, near the park entry. Implementation of the master plan is continuing.
An additional budget of $455,501, together with prior year CDBG allocations totaling $1.39 million and leveraged with $3 million in State Parks and Recreation funding and Prop 68 funds, will allow the city to complete Phase II in the coming year.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
An estimated 28,530 persons are expected to benefit from this project.
Location Description Collier Park, 4401 Palm Avenue, La Mesa, 91941 Planned Activities FY 2022-23 CDBG funds will be used to complete the next phase of improvements. The scope of work includes grading and landscaping, facilities, additional parking, roadway improvements, and security upgrades in the heart of the park.
2 Project Name Fair Housing (CSA San Diego County)
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Fair Housing / Planning and Administration Needs Addressed Fair Housing / Planning and Administration
Annual Action Plan
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Funding CDBG: $30,000
Description The Center for Social Advocacy (CSA) of San Diego County provides fair housing services to the City.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
An estimated 100 persons are expected to benefit from this activity.
Location Description City of La Mesa
Planned Activities Each year, the City must certify to HUD that the City is affirmatively furthering fair housing. The contract with CSA San Diego County helps the City meet this CDBG implementation requirement. The City's contribution to CSA, combined with that of several other jurisdictions including the Cities of El Cajon, Santee, National City, and Chula Vista, supports this organization and furthers fair housing goals within La Mesa and the region.
3 Project Name Program Administration
Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Planning and Administration
Needs Addressed Planning and Administration
Funding CDBG: $40,000
Description CDBG Administration is the responsibility of the Housing and Development Division of the Community Development Department.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
Location Description
Planned Activities Administrative activities include preparing annual plans and reports, public outreach, environmental review of projects, labor compliance monitoring, contract administration, subrecipient monitoring, and fair housing testing. Staff also maintains and updates the low-moderate eligible areas map.
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2022
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4 Project Name Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program Administration Target Area N/A
Goals Supported Planning and Administration / Conserve the Housing Stock Needs Addressed Planning and Administration / Conserve the Housing Stock Funding CDBG: $6,000
Description Loan portfolio management for the housing rehabilitation program.
Target Date June 2023
Estimate the number
and type of families
that will benefit from
the proposed activities
N/A
Location Description N/A
Planned Activities Although no new loans are being granted, there are administrative costs associated with monitoring the loan portfolio and processing loan pay-off paperwork.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.420, 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed The City is committed to a policy that uses CDBG funds to construct public improvements that benefit lower income neighborhoods or special needs populations. While there is some overlap between lower income neighborhoods and neighborhoods with minority concentrations, the City does not use minority concentration as a basis for distribution of assistance.
Geographic Distribution
Target Area Percentage of Funds
N/A
Table 8 - Geographic Distribution
Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically Priorities for allocation are based on community outreach efforts and consultation meetings developed under the Citizen Participation process and approved by the City Council. Identified needs have historically included improving aging infrastructure systems, improving park facilities, and affordable housing. With an area of only nine square miles, the relatively small size of the community precludes the need to establish specific Target Areas.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing -91.420, 91.220(j) Introduction
Public policies can have a negative effect on the development of affordable housing and residential investment. Public policies with potential negative effects include the complex approval process, permitting and other costs that add to project expenses and most importantly, zoning ordinances that inhibit affordable housing development, conversion or rehabilitation.
Actions planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment
Individual municipalities have little influence over market constraints, but are well-positioned to provide incentives or assistance to help overcome the impacts of market constraints. Governmental constraints to affordable housing development include land use policies in the General Plan, zoning and development codes, development and planning fees, and growth management policies. The City’s Housing Element was adopted by the City Council on July 27, 2021, in accordance with State Housing Element Law. The Housing Element provides policy direction over an eight-year planning period. The Housing Element identifies and provides solutions to address governmental constraints affecting the maintenance, improvement, and development of all types of housing, including emergency shelters, transitional housing, supportive housing, and single-room occupancy (SRO) units.
A number of recent actions have been taken by the City to reduce barriers to affordable housing. In 2017, the City adopted an Affordable Homes Bonus Program to implement State density bonus regulations. In 2019, the City adopted accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) ordinances to encourage new ADU development as an effective means to provide affordable housing. Those policies are regularly updated to stay current with State law. The City does not charge sewer connection fees for ADUs, waives sewer fees for any deed-restricted affordable unit, and waives sewer and park fees for all units in 100 percent deed-restricted affordable projects. In 2022, the City adopted new regulations allowing for two-unit development and urban lot splits in single-family zones, consistent with State law.
Annual Action Plan
2022
21 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)
AP-85 Other Actions - 91.420, 91.220(k)
Introduction
Program goals established in the 2020-2025 Consolidated Plan, which form the basis for establishing objectives and outcomes in the 2022-2023 One-Year Action Plan, are as follows:
Goal 1 – Improve public facilities and infrastructure to promote a healthy and vibrant city environment.
Goal 2 – Promote equitable access to affordable housing through preservation of existing units, assistance to homeowners, and fair housing services.
Goal 3 – Create programs to prevent and address homelessness and provide access to services.
Goal 4 – Provide local community services to support low- and moderate-income households.
These four goals represent the varied needs that emerged during the ConPlan development process.
Infrastructure emerged as the top priority of survey respondents. The goals identified above specifically address the uses of CDBG and HOME funds in La Mesa.
Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs The City proactively pursues grant funding from a variety of private and public sources. Over the past five years the City has been awarded several grants for street improvements that help address safe routes to school in CDBG eligible areas. In FY 2018-19, the City received four HSIP grants totaling $1,014,000, two Active Transportation Program (ATGP) Capital Grants totaling $625,000, and one SANDAG Smart Growth Incentive Program Planning Grant for $169,000. These recently awarded funds were to be used to improve pedestrian and bike safety and promote walkability citywide, including in and adjacent to CDBG eligible neighborhoods. The West La Mesa Street Improvement Project, a $6 million undertaking, completes a new road, Junior High Drive, completes missing sidewalk links, and provides over five miles of new Class II or Class III bike lanes adjacent to Helix High School and La Mesa Arts Academy, which are within walking distance of and served by surrounding CDBG eligible neighborhoods.
Annual Action Plan
2022
22 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)
Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing The Community Development Department is responsible for the City’s housing programs. Staff is assigned to monitor the status of one “at-risk” apartment project, to manage the housing rehabilitation loan portfolio, and to work with the private sector to encourage the development of new housing that includes affordable units.
In 2017 the City adopted an Affordable Homes Bonus Program to implement a State density bonus program to incentivize housing development across all income levels. The program is popular with marketrate developers eager to achieve additional housing density. The City has also adopted, and regularly updates, ADU and JADU ordinances to comply with State regulations. Interest in ADU development remains high and will continue to be an effective tool for providing naturally affordable housing for the foreseeable future. The City does not charge sewer connection fees for ADUs, waives sewer fees for any deed-restricted affordable unit, and waives sewer and park fees for all units in 100 percent deed-restricted affordable projects. In 2022, the City adopted policies allowing for two-unit development and urban lot splits in single-family zones consistent with State law. Other ongoing policy updates to promote housing affordability are planned over the next six years as part of the City’s Housing Element implementation.
In 2021, the City approved a 100 percent affordable apartment project in the Downtown Village on the former site of the City’s police station. The 1.27-acre site will be developed with 147 deed-restricted affordable units. Construction expected to begin within the year.
Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards
The City of La Mesa Building Department provides information to the public regarding the implementation of lead-based paint regulations promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency. A handout notifies building department customers of the requirement to hire a lead certified contractor. A slide with contact information for the EPA lead safe housing program and the need to hire qualified contractor is on the City’s government access television station and is posted on the City’s website.
Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families As a small city, La Mesa's actions have little direct impact on reducing the number of families living below the poverty level. The impacts County, State and Federal government policies have a much greater impact.
However, the existing housing stock in La Mesa remains relatively affordable and the City continues to support the production of new affordable housing.
The City has adopted an Economic Development Strategy to define policies and programs to retain and expand local business opportunity. This long-term project is aimed at providing a full spectrum of jobs in the community, which could have a positive impact on very low-income families.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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Actions planned to develop institutional structure
The Community Development Department is responsible for implementing the City's housing programs.
The Current Planning division handles the processing of new development proposals. CDBG administration and the housing program are the responsibilities of the Housing and Development division.
The Building division is responsible for housing codes and compliance activities.
The established institutional structure is working effectively. City staff will continue to maintain the established institutional structure and evaluate future improvements through multiple avenues, including the City’s process improvement team.
Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies
The Community Development Department will continue efforts to foster cooperation between City departments, neighboring cities, the County of San Diego, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), the Board of the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), other public agencies, organizations and the citizens and business community of La Mesa. The City will work closely with MTS staff to maintain and improve the high level of transit services currently enjoyed by residents of La Mesa, including trolley and fixed route bus services.
The City engages with a number of community stakeholder groups to ensure community needs are addressed. Some of these groups are sponsored by the City, including, the Planning Commission, the Design Review Board, the Historic Preservation Commission, the Mobility Commission, the Commission on Aging, the Environmental Sustainability Commission, the Parking Commission, and the Youth Advisory Commission. Other groups are private non-profit organizations promoting their area of interest, such as the La Mesa Village Association, La Mesa Beautiful, and the La Mesa History Center.
Annual Action Plan
2022
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Program Specific Requirements
AP-90 Program Specific Requirements - 91.420, 91.220(l)(1,2,4) Introduction
Program Specific Requirements are listed below.
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)
Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(1)
Projects planned with all CDBG funds expected to be available during the year are identified in the Projects Table. The following identifies program income that is available for use that is included in projects to be carried out.
1. The total amount of program income that will have been received before the start of the next program year and that has not yet been reprogrammed 12,633
2. The amount of proceeds from section 108 loan guarantees that will be used during the year to address the priority needs and specific objectives identified in the grantee's strategic plan. 0
3. The amount of surplus funds from urban renewal settlements 0
4. The amount of any grant funds returned to the line of credit for which the planned use has not been included in a prior statement or plan 0
5. The amount of income from float-funded activities 0
Total Program Income: 12,633
Other CDBG Requirements
1. The amount of urgent need activities 0
2. The estimated percentage of CDBG funds that will be used for activities that benefit persons of low and moderate income. Overall Benefit - A consecutive period of one, two or three years may be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income. Specify the years covered that include this Annual Action Plan. 100.00%
DATE: April 25, 2023
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Councilmember Jack Shu
VIA: Greg Humora, City Manager
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST THAT STAFF APPLY FOR AN
INCLUSIONARY HOUSING ORDINANCE GRANT
Direct staff to pursue grant funds, such as from SANDAG’s REAP 2.0 program, that would provide information on housing needs in our community and draft an effective Inclusionary Housing Ordinance that will address the housing shortage in the City of La Mesa.