Visalia City Council
April 3, 2023

Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
Visalia City Council
City Council
Meeting Agenda - Final
Mayor Brian Poochigian
Vice Mayor Brett Taylor
Council Member Steve Nelsen
Council Member Emmanuel Hernandez Soto
Council Member Liz Wynn
City Council Chambers7:00 PMMonday, April 3, 2023

ROLL CALL
CALL TO ORDER WORK SESSION - 5:30 PM

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Citizens are now invited to comment on issues within the jurisdiction of the Visalia City Council. The Council asks that you keep your comments concise and positive. Creative criticism, presented with appropriate courtesy, is welcome.

Each speaker will be allowed three minutes and a timer will notify you when your time is expired. Please begin your comments by stating and spelling your name and providing your city of residence.

WORK SESSION AND ACTION ITEMS (as described)

1. NEW EMPLOYEE INTRODUCTIONS:

ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT:

Vikram Manke, Assistant Engineer
Adrian Rubalcaba, Associate Engineer
23-0079

2. Receive a staff presentation and provide feedback and direction regarding change orders at the six signalized intersections and changes to the construction phasing plan, which includes moving to some daytime operations, for the Caldwell Avenue Improvement Project from Akers Street to Shady Street.
23-0044
ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION - 6:00 PM (Or, immediately following Work Session)
CALL TO ORDER REGULAR SESSION - 7:00 PM

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

1 City Council Meeting Agenda - Final April 3, 2023

INVOCATION

ITEMS OF INTEREST

PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the time for citizens to comment on subject matters that are not on the agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Visalia City Council. The Council asks that you keep your comments brief and positive. Creative criticism, presented with appropriate courtesy, is welcome.

This is also the time for citizens to request an item from the Consent Calendar be pulled for discussion purposes. Public comments related to all pulled Consent Calendar items and Regular or Public Hearing items listed on the agenda will be heard at the time that item is discussed or when the Public Hearing is opened.

Each speaker will be allowed three minutes, and a timer will notify you when your time is expired. Please begin your comments by stating and spelling your name and providing your city of residence.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Consent Calendar items are considered routine and will be enacted in one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these matters unless a request is made and then the item will be removed from the Consent Calendar to be discussed and voted upon by a separate motion.

1. Authorization to read ordinances by title only. 23-0022

2. Authorize the City Manager to approve a sole source purchase for (10) Kevlar Safety Uniforms for the Traffic Unit with MOTOPORT USA from Escondido, CA and appropriate $30,000 from the Asset Forfeiture Fund for FY 2022/23.
23-0070

3. Adopt Resolution No. 2023-07 ordering the summary vacation and abandonment of the temporary turn around easement over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map No. 4690. Property located along North Nevada Street north of West Grove Avenue (APN: 081-100-058).
23-0095

4. Approve the Citizens Advisory Committee’s recommendation to appoint Alana Johnson to fill a vacant voting position on the Citizens Advisory Committee.
23-0096

5. Authorize the City Manager to award an emergency contract to Carollo of Fresno, CA in the amount of $515,400 for the Condition Assessment, Facility Plan, and Master Plan Update at the City's Water Reclamation Facility. Also, authorize the appropriation of $550,000 from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund (431).
23-0099

2 City Council Meeting Agenda - Final April 3, 2023

6. Second reading of the Ordinance 2023-03 new Visalia Municipal Code Section 9.24.060 to be added to the City of Visalia Municipal Code establishing regulations prohibiting the unlawful possession of a catalytic converter in the City of Visalia.
23-0116

REGULAR ITEMS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
Comments related to regular Items and Public Hearing Items are limited to three minutes per speaker, for a maximum of 30 minutes per item. The Mayor may reasonably limit or extend the public comment period to preserve the Council's interest in conducting efficient, orderly meetings.

1. Review and comment on the proposed use of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME), and HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) funds including: 1) The Draft Program Year (PY) 2023 Annual Action Plan, 2) the Draft PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, and the Draft PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment, including the Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment. 23-0082

2. Review and comment on the proposed U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Neighborhood
Stabilization Program (NSP1) Substantial Amendment to provide $120,000 for the funding of First Time Homebuyer Loans for five single family homes constructed at NW 5th Avenue and N Court Street.
23-0101

CLOSED SESSION REPORT

ADJOURNMENT

3 City Council Meeting Agenda - Final April 3, 2023

1. UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS:

Monday, April 17, 2023 @ 7:00 p.m., 707 W. Acequia, City Hall Monday, May 01, 2023 @ 7:00 p.m., 707 W. Acequia, City Hall Note: Meeting dates /times are subject to change, check posted agenda for correct details.

In Compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings call ( 559) 713-4512 48-hours in advance of the meeting. For Hearing Impaired - Call (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48-hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time to request signing services.

Any written materials relating to an item on this agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda are available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk, 220 N. Santa Fe Street, Visalia CA 93292, during normal business hours. 22-0385

4 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0079 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

NEW EMPLOYEE INTRODUCTIONS:

ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT:

Vikram Manke, Assistant Engineer
Adrian Rubalcaba, Associate Engineer
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
5 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0044 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

Agenda Item Wording:

Receive a staff presentation and provide feedback and direction regarding change orders at the six signalized intersections and changes to the construction phasing plan, which includes moving to some daytime operations, for the Caldwell Avenue Improvement Project from Akers Street to Shady Street.

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023 - in order to keep Contractor on schedule.

Submitting Department: Administration - CIP Engineering Contact Name and Phone Number:

Fred Lampe, Senior Civil Engineer, [email protected], (559) 713-4270 Frank Senteno, City Engineer, [email protected], (559) 713-4331 Nick Mascia, Assistant City Manager, [email protected], (559) 713-4323 Department Recommendation:

Staff recommends that City Council authorize the City Manager to approve the following change order items for the contract (P03272) with Yarbs Construction for 3010-72000/CP9485-999 Caldwell Avenue Improvement Project:

1. Change Order A, $38,440.56, additional labor efforts for paving within the Akers intersection;

2. Change Order B, Option 2, $124,866.90, remove top and backfill abandoned culvert at the Chinowth Intersection and add five working days; and

3. Change Order C, Option 3, $61,914.00, modify construction to daytime paving, and partial intersection closures. Includes phase changes.

For a Change Order Total of $225,221.46
Background Discussion:

Yarbs Grading and Paving, Inc, (Yarbs) is the contractor for the Caldwell Avenue Improvement Project from Akers Street to Shady Street. Yarbs performed extensive pothole investigations to determine the location and depth of existing underground utilities particularly at the project’s signalized intersections conduit which holds the conductors for the traffic signals. Yarbs discovered traffic signal conduits that are shallow and conflict with the thickness of the planned pavement design. The conflicts have been confirmed at the project’ssix signalized intersections making it impossible to pave the signalized intersections as designed. In addition, Yarbs found that the existing Evans Ditch culvert in the Caldwell and Akers intersection is shallow and conflicts with the proposed pavement. Finally, Yarbs also found an abandoned irrigation culvert in the Caldwell and Chinowth intersection that also conflicts with the proposed pavement. These contract change orders are evaluated herein and Staff has proposed the preferred options. City Council will be briefed on the options and provide an explanation as to why the options require a change in the overall sequencing Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 5
powered by Legistar™
6 File #: 23-0044 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
of construction that will have impacts on the public.

Change Order A
The Evans Ditch Culvert crosses the Caldwell and Akers intersection at an angle. Because the space between the top of pavement and the top of culvert varies from 5” to 15” the contractor will need to hand compact much of the asphalt around and on top of the structure. Pavement is typically placed with a paving machine in linear rows and then compacted by roller compactors. Because of the conflict, the Contractor will need to place and compact via alternative means. Evans ditch is an active waterway and to relocated it will place the project on permanent suspension while working with the associated permitting and regulatory groups to establish another option. To modify paving operations in the Caldwell and Akers intersection will cost: $38,440.56.

Change Order B
Option-1 Do Not Remove Culvert: The contractor discovered an abandoned irrigation culvert in the Caldwell and Chinowth intersection. The culvert crosses the intersection at an angle similar to the Evans Ditch Culvert. If this culvert remains in place, it will require modified paving operations in the intersection. The cost of the modified paving operations will be: $26,527.64.

Option-2 Demolish Top and Backfill Culvert: City staff recommends demolishing the top of this abandoned culvert to below the pavement grade and backfilling the culvert with native material, sand, or gravel. This is because the culvert is not inspected to ensure structural integrity over time. The cost to demolish the culvert as explained herein will cost: $124,866.90 Culvert removal will add five construction days to the project schedule.

Change Order C
At the beginning of the project, the Contractor performed pot holing to identify all the utility lines within the project limits. Pot holing is where a crew cuts the existing pavement in a small square (ranging from 6 inches to a foot) and vacuums out the soil down to the top of the utility line. This allows the contractor to identify the specific location of the utility line or where they cross other utilities. This effort identified shallow conduits for all six of the signalized intersections within the project limits. The pavement design called out for a 7”thick asphalt over 13”aggregate base over 6” compacted native soil or a 26’’cross section. The existing traffic signal conduits were located at 15” deep.

Option-1 Nighttime Work: City staff worked with the contractor to develop solutions to the pavement issue. If the project kept the pavement design and had the traffic signal conduits relocated deeper, it would delay the project four (4) to six (6) months. Staff believes the proposed pavement alternative approach is an equally viable option that is also less time consuming and less expensive. and The cost of Option 1 if done at night will exceed: $750,000.

Option-2 Nighttime Work: City staff worked with the contractor to develop a second solution to the pavement issue. A thinner, solid asphalt pavement section that is 12-1/2”thick was designed. The thinner pavement section can be paved over the shallow traffic signal conduits. The cost if done at night is: $386,414.21
Option-3 Daytime Work: The contractor developed a lower cost option to install the 12-1/2” intersection paving during the day. Work would be done as part of the larger street paving operations. It would require multiple daytime closures of the north/south cross streets. Closures and Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 5
powered by Legistar™
7 File #: 23-0044 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
operations. It would require multiple daytime closures of the north/south cross streets. Closures and associated detours are described in the PowerPoint presentation (copy attached). The cost if done during the day: $61,914.00
Both daytime closures and nighttime closures show positive and negative impacts for both operations. More traffic will be impacted during the day than during nighttime hours. The cost is considerably less during the day than the night. Daytime work will cause less noise disturbance to nearby residents than during nighttime hours. Staff will make a visual presentation to discuss the impacts of nighttime closures and daytime closures. (Council previously approved nighttime closures for work at each of the intersections). The presentation will summarize the proposed construction phasing during the daytime work. This work adds daytime closures of the north and southbound crossroads entering the intersections while keeping the east and west bound Caldwell traffic open with the exception of a signal day to pave the final lift of the intersection. The public will experience two closures at each intersection. Each closure will last approximately 3 to 4 days and be a month apart for each intersection and each intersection will not occur at the same time.

Staff has a construction manager who is working with our Communications team so that once City Council provides direction, a concise public message on the changes will be issued to the public. A second public meeting will be held to offer the public an opportunity to see the phasing and impacts these changes impose.

The change order options presented above went before the Change Order Committee on March 9th, 2023. The Change Order Committee is a group of non-appointed technical staff without direct involvement with the project submitted for review. The committee is an informal committee that reviews the contract change order request for completeness, accuracy, constructability, objectivity, consistency, and overall insight.

The committee reviewed the individual change order options above and were in agreement with Staff’s recommendation. The Committee approved the recommended Change Order (s) for consideration and approval by city council.

After direction is received from city council, the approved change order will be presented back to the committee for final approval and contract amendment.

Fiscal Impact:

The adopted budget for the Caldwell Avenue Improvement Project from Akers Street to Shady Street is shown in the table below. A 15% construction contingency was budgeted due to the age of the road and therefore likely unforeseen circumstances, and rising oil prices for asphalt. There is sufficient contingency for this change order. Approval of this Change Order will reduce the original contingency amount of $1,322,478 to $1,097,257 as reflected in the table below along with this proposed Change Order:

Funding Table:

Fund
No.

Fund Account Amount
111 Gas Tax $66,763
113 SB1 RMRA $5,869,550
131 Measure R Local $1,115,790
133 Measure R Regional (Current Budget) $3,953,300
133 Measure R Regional (Additional Appropriation Request) $226,257 141 Measure N $830,060
511 Information Services $152,015
Budget Amount $12,213,735
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 5
powered by Legistar™
8 File #: 23-0044 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

Fund
No.

Fund Account Amount
111 Gas Tax $66,763
113 SB1 RMRA $5,869,550
131 Measure R Local $1,115,790
133 Measure R Regional (Current Budget) $3,953,300
133 Measure R Regional (Additional Appropriation Request) $226,257 141 Measure N $830,060
511 Information Services $152,015
Budget Amount $12,213,735
Estimated Budget:

Item
No.

Cost Items Amount
1 Construction Cost (Base Bid + Additive Bid) $8,816,521 1A Change Order #1 (Recommended) $225,221
2 Construction Contingency balance $1,097,257
3 Design Costs - Consultant P01392 $371,239
4 Design Costs - Consultant P01392 (Requested Increase) $55,000 5 Design Costs - Additional Pavement Design $27,000
6 Design Costs - City Staff (Estimate) $350,000
7 Right-of-Way (Estimate) $200,000
8 Construction Management (4 Creeks) $410,100
9 Construction Surveying (Estimate) $45,000
10 Construction Inspection (Estimate) $60,000
11 Construction Management - City Staff (Estimate) $86,000 12 Geotech testing (Estimate) $75,000
13 Public Outreach (Estimate) $40,000
Total Project Cost (Estimate) $11,858,338
Project Surplus Budget (Estimate) $355,397
Any funds remaining after project completion will be returned to the fund from which they originated.

Prior Council Action:

October 3, 2022
Award construction contract for Caldwell Avenue Improvements from Akers Street to Shady Street June 20, 2022
Authorize SB1 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) funds.

September 7, 2021
Authorized the City Manager to execute and agreement with 4 Creeks, Inc. to provide construction management services for the Caldwell Improvement Project from Akers to Shady Street in the Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 4 of 5
powered by Legistar™
9 File #: 23-0044 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
amount of $410,100.

August 16, 2021
Accepted the staging plan presentation and approved nighttime work as proposed in the staff report and with proper public noticing.

Other:

None
Alternatives:

None recommended.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to approve the contract change order items, including moving to daytime operations where appropriate, as recommended by staff within the staff report totaling $225,221.46.

Environmental Assessment Status:

Complete.

CEQA Review:

Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) - State Clearinghouse #2008081126, Notice of Determination (NOD) - Receipt TC0663
Attachments:

Ownership Disclosure Statement
Location Map
Project Limits
PowerPoint Daytime Paving Presentation
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 5 of 5
powered by Legistar™
10 11
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
! !
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
! !
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
Shady St.

HW
Y 99
HW
Y 99
HWY 198
ROAD 60
ROAD 68
ROAD 76
HWY 198
ROAD 156
ROAD 148
ROAD 124
AKERS ST.

SHIRK ST.

AKERS ST.

SHIRK ST.

AVENUE 320
KELSEY ST.

AVENUE 264
AVENUE 272
DEMAREE ST.

LOVERS LANE
LINWOOD ST.

LOVERS LANE
DEMAREE ST.

WALNUT AVE.

TULARE AVE.

GOSHEN AVE.

RIGGIN AVE.RIGGIN AVE.

GOSHEN AVE.

TULARE AVE.

WALNUT AVE.

MOONEY BLVD.

SANTA FE ST.

McAULIFF ST.

DINUBA BLVD.

MOONEY BLVD.

HOUSTON AVE.

CALDWELL AVE.CALDWELL AVE.

BEN MADDOX WAY BEN MADDOX WAY
WHITENDALE AVE.

Hwy 198
Hwy 99
Shirk
K
Akers
Main
Caldwell
M
ooney
Tulare
Ave 272
Visalia
Dem
aree
Ave 320
Whitendale
Doe
Chinowth
Houston
Santa Fe
Center
Riggin
Shannon
Dinuba
Murray
Rd 144
Betty
Pratt
Roeben
St Johns
Lovers Lane
Giddings Rd 132
Plaza
Kibler
Cain
Ben M
addox
Goshen
Rd 92
County Center
Kelsey
Rd 148
Noble
Linwood
Ave 276
Ave 280
Rd 88
Walnut
Ferguson
3rd
Court
Rd 100
Riverway
Hurley
Burke
Sunnyview
Ave 312
M
c Auliff
Mill CreekAm
erican
M
c Auliff
Linwood Noble
Burke
Plaza
Noble
Houston
Demaree
Ave 280
Goshen
Walnut
Riggin
Tulare
Rd 148
Ave 320
Ave 312
Akers
Burke
Akers Shannon
Plaza
Riggin
Hurley

CALDWELL AVENUE IMPROVEMENTS FROM

AKERS STREET TO SHADY STREET
¨
9,000 0 9,0004,500 Feet= Project Location
12 Shady St.

Ave 272
S Akers St
S M
ooney Blvd
W Walnut Ave
S Dem
aree St
S Linwood St
W Whitendale Ave
S Chinowth St
W Visalia Pkwy
S County Center Dr
Rd 108
Rd 100
S Dans St
S University St
W Nellis Ave
Alley
W Cameron Ave
W La Vida Ave
W Coppola Ave
W Ashland Ave
W Mid Valley Ave
W Cambridge Ave
W Cutler Ave
W Harter Ave
W Beech Ave
W Elkhorn Ave
W Cherry Ave
S Crenshaw St S Terrace St
W Dorothea Ave
S Sallee St
W Judy Ave
W Mary Ave
Ave 276
W Wagner Ave
W Victor Ave
W Laura Ave
W Princeton Ave
S M
em
ory St
S Valley St
W Vassar Ave
W Redding Ave
S Heritage Dr
W Reese Ct
S Verde Vista St
W Rialto Ct
W Monte Vista Ave
W Russell Ave
S Jackie St
W Rialto Ave W Packwood Ave
S Woodland St
W Reese Ave
S Noyes St
W Sunnyside Ave
S Linda Vista St
W Concord Ave
S Yale St
W James Ave
W Evergreen Ave
S Kent St
W Cornell Ave
W Russell Ct
Good Ave
S M
endonca St
W Country Ave
S Chatham
St
S Fontana St
W Orchard Ave
Private St
W Monte Vista Ct
S Cindy Ct
W Nellis Ct
W Pryor Ct
W Chestnut Ave
S M
aselli St
W Hemlock Ct
S Avocado St
S Julieann St
W Mission Ct
W La Vida Ct
W Mary Ct
S Redwood St
W Sunnyside Ct
S Parkwood St
W Hemlock Ave
S Tam
arack St
W Orchard Ct
W Colonial Ave
S Ernest St
W Good Ave
S Silvervale St
W Elkhorn Ct
W Dorothea Ct
S Vickie St
W Venice Ave
W Mission Ave
S Linda Vista St
S Redwood St
S Kent St
W Orchard Ct
W Victor Ave
S University St
S Tam
arack St
W Monte Vista Ave
S W
oodland St
W Victor Ave
W Judy Ave
W Packwood Ave
W Laura Ave
S M
aselli St
S M
aselli St
W Elkhorn Ave
W Sunnyside Ct
S Chinowth St
W La Vida Ave
S University St
W Ashland Ave
S M
aselli St
W Reese Ave
W Nellis Ave
W Concord Ave
W Vassar Ave
W Rialto Ave
W Redding Ave
W Beech Ave
W Hemlock Ct
EVANS

PACKWOOD

CALDWELL AVENUE IMPROVEMENTS FROM

AKERS STREET TO SHADY STREET
¨
1,500 0 1,500750 Feet= Project Limits
13 14
•
•
•
15 •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
16 •
•
•
•
•
•
17 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
Demaree
County
Center
Shady
18 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
19 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
20 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
21 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
22 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
23 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
24 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
25 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
26 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
27 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
28 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
29 Akers
Linwood
Chinowth
Demaree
County
Center
Shady
30 •
•
•
•
•
•
31 32
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0022 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

Authorization to read ordinances by title only.

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
33 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0070 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

Agenda Item Wording:

Authorize the City Manager to approve a sole source purchase for (10) Kevlar Safety Uniforms for the Traffic Unit with MOTOPORT USA from Escondido, CA and appropriate $30,000 from the Asset Forfeiture Fund for FY 2022/23.

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Police Department
Contact Name and Phone Number: Chief Jason Salazar, ext. 4215, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> Captain, Luma Fahoum ext. 4103, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>; Lieutenant Celeste Sanchez, ext.4573 [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>; Financial Analyst Liz Ybarra, ext. 4250, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> Department Recommendation:

Authorize the City Manager to approve a sole source purchase for (10) Kevlar Safety Uniforms for the Traffic Unit with MOTOPORT USA from Escondido, CA and appropriate $30,000 from the Asset Forfeiture Fund for FY2022/23. The Traffic Unit consists of one (1) Sergeant and nine (9) Officers with a BMW Motorcycle assigned to each of them.

Summary:

The Department’sTraffic Unit does not currently have an abrasion/impact resistant riding uniform but recommends this equipment as an essential piece of safety equipment for officers assigned a motorcycle. After much research and evaluation, the Department selected the Kevlar safety gear offered by MOTOPORT USA to become the standard uniform issue for the Traffic Unit. The uniform will consist of one (1) Kevlar Air Mesh jacket one (1) Kevlar Air Mesh pant, one (1) Motor Duty Shirt and one (1) SIDI Canyon Gore-Tex motor boot. The Kevlar Air Mesh pant and boots will be worn on every shift and the duty shirt will be worn when the Air Mesh Jacket is not worn.

All sworn officers have two (2) types of uniforms neither of which provides an officer on a motorcycle abrasion or impact protection. There is a Class “A”which is a wool and/ or polyester shirt and pant that is rarely worn and mostly used for formal presentations. The current Class “B”is the primary uniform used and is a polyester shirt and pants. This uniform is the same as an officer in a patrol car except for an outdated calf-high riding boot and motor breeches that were originally adopted from equestrian riding and have been in use since the creation of the motorcycle unit in 1975.

The use of motorcycles by law enforcement agencies for traffic enforcement purposes is a widely accepted practice that provides several benefits related to traffic enforcement, accessibility, and maneuverability in traffic. Despite these benefits, there are inherent risks associated with motorcycle operations that are mitigated through the type of motorcycles employed, training of the motorcycle Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 4
powered by Legistar™
34 File #: 23-0070 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
operator, high visibility emergency equipment, helmets, etc.

After an incident in November 2022 where a Visalia Police Traffic Officer was struck by a fleeing suspect, a need for better protective equipment in the form of the uniform worn officers assigned to motorcycle duty was identified. The safety features of the motorcycle helped to prevent significant injury although the officer sustained injuries from a slide on asphalt consisting of significant abrasions and bruising and damage sustained to the uniform worn by the officer at that time. The recommended motorcycle uniform in this report is designed specifically for these types of incidents and to prevent or minimize those types of injuries in similar situations.

Half of all motorcycle injuries involve relatively minor soft tissue injuries. Lower extremities (legs) are the part of the body most likely to be injured in a motorcycle crash. Abrasions are the most frequent injury suffered by motorcyclists involved in traffic collisions. Abrasions can leave a motor officer at risk for bacterial infections, which can impede the healing process and lead to life threatening complications. Although protective clothing cannot prevent all injuries in a high impact crash, most motorcycle crashes do not occur at high speeds and therefore motor officers can benefit from protective clothing such as Kevlar uniforms. At this time no other product exists that is made of Kevlar and has the capability of protecting a uniformed motor officer during the course of their duties. This is the only riding gear manufactured specifically for police officer uniforms. At this time no other product exists that is made of Kevlar and has the capability of protecting a uniformed motor officer during the course of their duties. This is the only riding gear manufactured specifically for police officer uniforms.

It is a basic requirement of all protective clothing to provide a degree of protection without interfering with the rider’sability to ride safely. Riding is an athletic pursuit, so clothing must move freely with the body. The current motor officer uniform, although it may be comfortable, has no protective element. The class “A”uniform is one that hinders mobility and causes constriction to the motor officer’s legs. Motor breeches coupled with calf-high boots restrict mobility both on and off the motorcycle and creates heat fatigue/discomfort. Protective clothing should fit without constriction.

Protection from the weather is another significant problem that creates a safety concern. Physical stress due to heat, cold, or other discomforts are tiring and can be distracting when riding a motorcycle. A relaxed and alert officer is less likely to be involved in a collision than someone who is numbed by cold, fatigued by heat, and/or distracted by discomfort. Current motor uniforms also do not provide conspicuity to officers working during darkness.

Background Discussion:

Current advancements in technology have led to the development of a new type of uniform that protects the motor officer in the event of a collision. This technological advancement encompasses the use of Kevlar, which is woven into a synthetic mesh material to create a safety motor officer uniform. This new uniform consists of pants and a jacket that are constructed of Kevlar mesh with high-density foam armor. These uniforms are also manufactured with reflective material to create conspicuity to the officer, especially during darkness. Use of this safety equipment is proven to reduce injuries and increases the chance of a motor officer surviving a collision.

The MOTOPORT Kevlar uniform pants and jacket have been proven in actual police motorcycle collisions to reduce injury to the officer. The Glendale Police Department had a motor officer that was riding his department motorcycle on the I-10 Freeway when a tarp on the roadway happened to get caught in his rear wheel causing him to go down. The officer, who was equipped with Kevlar pants Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 4
powered by Legistar™
35 File #: 23-0070 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
caught in his rear wheel causing him to go down. The officer, who was equipped with Kevlar pants and a duty uniform shirt, slid on the freeway until he eventually came to rest. As a result of this single vehicle collision, the officer sustained road rash to his arms and no abrasions to his legs.

The Chula Vista Police Department had two collisions involving motor officers that were equipped with Kevlar pants. The first incident involved a collision where a motor officer was ejected from his department motorcycle and landed feet first through the windshield of a vehicle. This officer, who was equipped with Kevlar pants and a duty uniform shirt, sustained fractured ribs, abrasions to his arms, and no injuries to his legs. The second collision involved a right-of-way violation at 40 MPH in which the motor officer was ejected from his department motorcycle and flew 25 feet in the air. The officer was equipped with Kevlar pants and a Kevlar jacket. As a result of this collision, the motor officer sustained only a bruised palm.

Fiscal Impact:

Appropriate $30,000 in fund 621-Asset Forfeiture for the initial purchase of (10) uniforms. The current cost of the uniform used by a traffic officer is $1,200 for the shirt, breeches and boots and budgeted in the Traffic Division-2103. The Traffic Unit is very specialized, and turnover is minimal with one (1) or two (2) transfers in/out of the unit every five (5) years. The average assignment for an officer in the Traffic Unit is five (5) to seven (7) years. The uniform will require replacement every four (4) to five (5) years; therefore, the cost to replace the uniform after this initial purchase will be budgeted in the operating budget for the Traffic Division-2103.

Going forward, Staff will evaluate the budget in 2103 as needed to purchase the new safety uniforms.

Any officer assigned a motorcycle will be provided with the new safety uniform upon approval of this report. The cost for new safety equipment for a Traffic Officer transferring into the unit is estimated at $3,000.

Currently, the only company selling this Kevlar air mesh material is MOTOPORT USA. This vendor provides motor officer uniforms to some California agencies. These pants are required to be machine washed with no special cleaning requirements. This means that officers assigned to the Traffic Unit can wear the same pair of pants through their tenure in traffic and will save the costs related to dry cleaning. MOTOPORT USA ensures that if their Kevlar pants were to tear because of a collision and repair is more than 50 percent of the cost, then a new pair of pants would be replaced for free.

Prior Council Action: N/A
Other: N/A
Alternatives: Do not authorize the purchase.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

Authorize the City Manager to approve a sole source purchase for (10) Kevlar Safety Uniforms for the Traffic Unit with MOTOPORT USA from Escondido, CA, and appropriate $30,000 from the Asset Forfeiture Fund for FY 2022/23.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 4
powered by Legistar™
36 File #: 23-0070 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

CEQA Review: N/A
Attachments: N/A
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 4 of 4
powered by Legistar™
37 38
39 40
41 42
43 44
45 46
47 48
49 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0095 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 3.

Agenda Item Wording:

Adopt Resolution No. 2023-07 ordering the summary vacation and abandonment of the temporary turn around easement over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map No. 4690. Property located along North Nevada Street north of West Grove Avenue (APN: 081-100-058).

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Community Development
Contact Name and Phone Number:

Keyshawn Ford, Assistant Engineer - (559) 713-4268, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
Lupe Garcia, Civil Engineer - (559) 713-4197, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> Jason Huckleberry, Asst. Com. Dev. Director - (559) 713-4495, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
Paul Bernal, Community Development Director - (559) 713-4025, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
Department Recommendation:

Staff recommends that City Council adopt Resolution No. 2023-07 ordering the summary vacation and abandonment of the temporary turn around easement over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map No. 4690, without the need of a public hearing.

Background Discussion:

In May 2005, the Easement for Temporary Turn Around (EFTTA) through Parcel 17 was dedicated under Parcel Map 4690. It was dedicated at a time when Nevada Street was not a through street. In July 2005, Parcel Map 4712 was approved by the City Council, subdividing Parcel 2 of Parcel Map 4442, which extended Nevada Street south and established the connection between Nevada Street and Grove Avenue. The EFTTA, more clearly shown in Exhibit “A”,will be abandoned back to the property owner. See Exhibit “B”for the dedicated street extension south of Parcel 17 under Parcel Map 4712.

The vacation and abandonment of this easement for temporary turn around meets the provisions for use of summary proceedings with no public hearing or public posting as prescribed in the California Streets and Highways Code. A local agency may summarily vacate or terminate a public service easement in any of the following cases stated in Section 8333 under Chapter 4 (Summary Vacation) of Part 3 (Public Streets, Highways, and Service Easements Vacation Law) of Division 9 (Change of Grade and Vacation) of the California Streets and Highways Code:
a) The easement has not been used for the purpose for which it was dedicated or acquired for five consecutive years immediately preceding the proposed vacation. b) The date of dedication or acquisition is less than five years, and more than one year, Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 2
powered by Legistar™
50 File #: 23-0095 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 3.
b) The date of dedication or acquisition is less than five years, and more than one year, immediately preceding the proposed vacation, and the easement was not used continuously since that date.
c) The easement has been superseded by relocation, or determined to be excess by the easement holder, and there are no other public facilities located within the easement.

Under paragraph “a”of the referenced California Streets and Highways Code; the easement for temporary turn around has not been used for the purpose for which it was dedicated or acquired for five consecutive years and the easement is no longer necessary.

Under paragraph “c”of the referenced California Streets and Highways Code; the easement for temporary turn around has been determined to be excess by the easement holder and there are no other public facilities located within the easement.

Fiscal Impact:

N/A
Prior Council Action:

On May 2, 2005, City Council approved the recordation of Parcel Map 4690. On July 11, 2005, Council approved for recordation Parcel Map 4712.

Other: N/A
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to authorize the adoption of Resolution No. 2023-07, ordering the summary vacation and abandonment of the easement for temporary turn around over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map No. 4690.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Attachments:

1. Resolution No. 2023-07

2. Location Map

3. Exhibit A - Parcel Map 4690

4. Exhibit B - Parcel Map 4712
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 2
powered by Legistar™
51 RESOLUTION NO. 2023 - ____

RESOLUTION ORDERING THE

SUMMARY VACATION AND ABANDONMENT
OF EASEMENT FOR TEMPORARY TURN AROUND OVER PARCEL 17 OF PARCEL MAP 4690, AS SHOWN IN EXHIBIT “A” ATTACHED HERETO.

WHEREAS, The City of Visalia, State of California, has an easement for temporary turn around over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map 4690, recorded in Book 47 of Parcel Maps at Page 95, Tulare County Records, that has not been used for the purpose for which it was acquired, for at least the past consecutive five years immediately preceding this vacation.

WHEREAS, The City of Visalia, State of California, has an easement for temporary turn around over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map 4690, recorded in Book 47 of Parcel Maps at Page 95, Tulare County Records, that has been determined to be excess by the easement holder, and there are no other public facilities located within the easement.

WHEREAS, The City Council of the City of Visalia may vacate all or part of a street, highway, or public service easement pursuant to the Public Streets, Highways, and Service Easements Vacation Law (California Streets & Highways Code, section 8300 et seq.); and

WHEREAS, the summary vacation proceedings are to be conducted pursuant to the provisions in sections 8330 – 8336, Chapter 4 of Part 3, Division 9, entitled “Summary Vacation,” of the California Streets & Highways Code; and

WHEREAS, the summary vacation requirement for the public service easement has been met, pursuant to §8333(c) of the California Streets & Highways Code.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:

1. The Council of the City of Visalia hereby orders the summary vacation and abandonment of the easement for temporary turn around over Parcel 17 of Parcel Map 4690, as shown in Exhibit “A” attached hereto.

2. A public hearing is not required, and the use of a summary proceeding is allowed for the vacation of a public service easement by having met at least one of the following cases described in California Streets and Highways Code section 8333:

a. The easement has not been used for the purpose for which it was dedicated or acquired for five consecutive years immediately preceding the proposed vacation.
b. The date of dedication or acquisition is less than five years, and more than one year, immediately preceding the proposed vacation, and the easement was not continuously used since that date.
c. The easement has been superseded by relocation, or determined to be excess by the easement holder, and there are no other public facilities located within the easement.

52 3. From and after the date this resolution is recorded, the temporary turn around easement is vacated and abandoned, and no longer constitutes an easement.

PASSED AND ADOPTED: Month __, 2023 LESLIE B CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF TULARE ) ss.

CITY OF VISALIA )

I, Leslie B. Caviglia, City Clerk of the City of Visalia, certify the foregoing is the full and true Resolution 2023-__ passed and adopted by the Council of the City of Visalia at a regular meeting held on Month ___, 2023.

Dated: Leslie B. Caviglia, CITY CLERK

By Michelle E. Nicholson, Chief Deputy City Clerk

53 54
55 56
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0096 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 4.

Agenda Item Wording:

Approve the Citizens Advisory Committee’s recommendation to appoint Alana Johnson to fill a vacant voting position on the Citizens Advisory Committee.

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Police Department
Contact Name and Phone Number: Captain Luma Fahoum; ext. 4103, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> ; Public Works Manager Jason Serpa, ext. 4533, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> Department Recommendation:

Approve the Citizens Advisory Committee’s recommendation to appoint Alana Johnson as a voting member of the Citizens Advisory Committee. Alana Johnson would take over a vacated term set to expire June of 2023, and a full term that would begin on July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2025.

Summary:

The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) consists of 11 members. There are currently two (2) vacancies on the committee. If this appointment is approved by Council, Alana Johnson will fill the vacancy for the term that will expire in June 2023, and, given the timeframe, it is recommended that the Council also appoint her to her first full term beginning July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2025. Because she will serve less than half a full term during her first term, she would be eligible to serve the partial term plus up to three full terms, should the Council choose to appoint her to additional terms. If appointed, Alana Johnson would fill a term vacated by George Curtis.

Background Discussion:

The CAC meets monthly for a variety of purposes including:
· Annually review the City’s use of the Measure T Public Safety Sales Tax commenting on the City Manager’s certified budget and the outside auditor’s review of monies spent. · Provide two (2) members to sit on the Measure N Oversight Committee. · Annually conduct a public opinion survey of residents’ satisfaction with City Services. · Provide training, review, and recommendations to Council for the distribution of non-profit youth grants.
· Provide input on the City’s use of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and other programs from Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
· Provide Council feedback on an annual basis with regards to proposed new and/or increased fees and rates.

If the recommended appointment of Alana Johnson is approved by Council, the 11 member Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 3
powered by Legistar™
57 File #: 23-0096 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 4.
committee will be made up of the following members:

1. Jones, Ed
1st term: 7/1/2022 - 6/2024

2. Johnson, Alana
1st term: 7/2021 - 6/2023

3. Stewart, Glen
1st term: 7/2021 - 6/2023

4. Donabed, Rebecca
UET term: 7/2021 - 6/2023

5. Deniston-Sheets, Holly
1st term: 7/2021 - 6/2023

6. Ruiz, Frank
1st term: 7/2018 - 6/2020, 2nd term: 7/2020 - 6/2022, 3rd term: 7/2022 - 6/2024

7. Vacant
1st term: 10/2021 - 6/2023

8. Garza, Charles
1st term: 7/2022 - 6/2024

9. Prosser, Bryan
UET: 7/1/2022 - 6/2024

10. Salgado, Miguel
UET: 5/2022 - 6/2023

11.Pierce, Kelly
1st term: 10/2021 - 6/2023
Applicants:

Alana Johnson moved to Visalia a year and a half ago after she and her husband decided to call Visalia home. Her husband recently opened a business in Visalia and they purchased a home in the City. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a law degree and is currently a homemaker.

Alana has the time to devote to what she believes is her civic duty since she is residing and raising her children in Visalia and plans to be here for the next 30 years.

Fiscal Impact: N/A
Prior Council Action: Council has historically affirmed the recommendations of the CAC related to the appointment of new members.

Other: N/A
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to approve the Citizens Advisory Committee’s recommendation to appoint Alana Johnson to an unexpired term on the committee which will expire June 30, 2023, and to appoint her to a full term beginning July 1, 2023 and end June 30 2025.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 3
powered by Legistar™
58 File #: 23-0096 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 4.

Attachments: CAC application for Alana Johnson.

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 3
powered by Legistar™
59 60
61 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0099 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 5.

Agenda Item Wording:

Authorize the City Manager to award an emergency contract to Carollo of Fresno, CA in the amount of $515,400 for the Condition Assessment, Facility Plan, and Master Plan Update at the City's Water Reclamation Facility. Also, authorize the appropriation of $550,000 from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund (431).

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Public Works
Contact Name and Phone Number: Nick Bartsch, Public Works Director, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, 713-4052
Department Recommendation:

Staff recommends that Council authorize the City Manager to award an emergency contract to Carollo of Fresno, CA in the amount of $515,400 for the Condition Assessment, Facility Plan, and Master Plan Update at the City's Water Reclamation Facility. Also, authorize the appropriation of $550,000 from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund (431) to cover potential full costs of the project.

Background Discussion:

In 2018, the City completed a $150 million upgrade to the City’s Water Reclamation Facility (WRF).

This project made various improvements throughout the plant utilizing a tertiary treatment process, thus creating the ability to produce California Title 22 compliant recycled water using membrane bioreactor (MBR) treatment, and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection technologies. This upgrade was necessary as a result of the Central Valley Water Board’s adoption of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit (NPDES No. CA0079189) under Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR) Order R5-2014-0076, which increased regulation on processed wastewater discharge into Mill Creek in 2014. Therefore, these improvements to the facility allowed for treatment and disinfection for up to 22.0 million gallons of wastewater per day (mgd) and the rerouting of the plant’s effluent to alternative destinations and uses. The treatment processes remove greater than 99% of traditional pollutants and allows the permitted ability to provide disinfected tertiary effluent to not only the City’s basins, but also to Tulare Irrigation District canals, the Visalia Municipal Airport, Plaza Park, the golf course and nearby farmland.

However, the significant upgrades completed in 2018 made major changes to the treatment processes and increased Plant-wide efficiencies, focused on certain components and processes within the Plant, but did not increase the overall design capacity of the entire facility. When the last Facility Master Plan was updated in 2008, the design capacity was 22 mgd. Since that time, upgrades and changes to individual components have made expansion provisions to bring those systems up to the 22 mgd, but have not increased it. Based on projected growth, the current 2008 Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 3
powered by Legistar™
62 File #: 23-0099 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 5.

Master Plan calls for capacity increasing improvements to be completed by 2030, thus expanding the Plant capacity to 26 mgd. To date, these proposed improvements have not yet been completed.

Additionally, since the last major upgrade project in 2018, influent industrial flow loadings for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) have increased drastically over the past few years. This coupled with successful water conservation efforts throughout the City, while beneficial from a water usage standpoint, have changed and impacted the consistency of flows entering the plant. Higher loadings cause strains and upsets on the solids handling system including the thickening, digestion, and dewatering processes. The aeration basins along with the primary clarifiers have also been impacted due to the increase in solids loading. These changes have affected the operations of the facility and its overall available capacity.

While the WRF discharge currently meets effluent limitations, it is prudent for the City to evaluate the long-term impacts of these changes on the plant and its ability to maintain discharge requirements, continue efficient operations, and accommodate future growth. Due to the deteriorating condition of some process areas, the increased loading at the WRF, along with several other operational and maintenance issues, Staff has identified the need for an overall facility assessment and the development of a Facility Plan to evaluate the current flows, loads, and facility conditions. This plan will identify near-term WRF improvements. Additionally, the current WRF Master Plan dates back to 2008. So, in conjunction with the evaluation assessment and Facility Plan, Staff has also recognized the need to update the WRF Master Plan to serve as a strategic planning guide that will 1) identify long-term improvements needed to address condition, redundancy, and resiliency; 2) establish the path forward to meet current growth commitments and plan for buildout conditions within the City’s Sphere of Influence; and, 3) meet future anticipated regulatory changes. The Facility Plan will provide a 6-year strategy for near-term improvements, and the Master Plan Update will include a 20-year roadmap to plan for build-out growth conditions and long-term improvements. This process will help evaluate the current planned Capital Improvement Projects Program, prioritize these improvements, and address any needs for future expansion.

Due to recent failures of key components within the system, coupled with increased demand and potential growth, it is imperative this assessment be completed as soon as possible, allowing for identified needed improvements to be completed and ensuring consistent and reliable operations.

Carollo of Fresno, CA is familiar with the WRF facility, prepared the previous 2008 Master Plan, and has the expertise and available resources to complete this work in a timely and expeditious manner.

Their proposed rates and fees are in line with industry standards for this type of work. The total scope of this work is anticipated to be completed in approximately 9 months, with the initial assessment and Facility Plan being completed in the first 6 months of that timeline.

Fiscal Impact:

Carollo has proposed to complete this work for $515,400, but in order to account for any unforeseen needs and potential additional review or analysis not currently identified, Staff is recommending the approval and appropriation of funds up to $550,000. Adequate funding is currently available within the Wastewater Enterprise Fund 431. Additionally, money is budgeted annually to perform routine maintenance, as well as major Capital Improvement Projects. The proposed facilities assessment and master plan update will help validate those projects currently planned, re-prioritize, and/or completely shift the currently identified list of projects to better address present conditions, thus potentially funding itself in the process.

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 3
powered by Legistar™
63 File #: 23-0099 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 5.

Prior Council Action: None
Other: None
Alternatives: Competitively select a consultant to perform these services via a Request for Proposals (RFP) process through the City’s Purchasing Department. (Due to the critical nature and timing of this work, this is not recommended.)
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

Authorize the City Manager to award an emergency contract to Carollo of Fresno, CA in the amount of $515,400 for the Condition Assessment, Facility Plan, and Master Plan Update at the City's Water Reclamation Facility. Also, authorize the appropriation of $550,000 from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund (431).

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Attachments: Carollo - WRF - Facility Assessment & Master Plan Update Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 3
powered by Legistar™
64 1401 Fulton Street, Suite 802
Fresno, California 93721
P. 559-436-6616 / F. 559-436-1191
carollo.com

00030086 / Visalia Condition Assessment, Facility Plan,MP Scope Letter.docx March 8, 2023

Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
336 North Ben Maddox Way
Visalia, CA 93292
Subject: Water Reclamation Facility - Condition Assessment, Facility Plan and Master Plan Update Dear Mr. Bartsch:

Enclosed is a Scope and Fee prepared by Carollo Engineers, Inc. (Carollo), to evaluate the existing City of Visalia (City) Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) and prepare a Facility Plan and WRF Master Plan Update. In discussions with City staff, influent industrial flow loadings for BOD/TSS have increased drastically over the past few years.

With the current higher loadings, it causes strains and upsets on the solids handling system including thickening, digestion, and dewatering. Staff has indicated that the aeration basins along with the primary clarifiers have also been impacted due the increase in solids loading. Staff indicated that the headworks needs to be retrofitted and updated due to the age and corrosion of the facility. A new or upgraded headworks will be evaluated as well as emergency storage ponds that can be used to divert flow during peak or high flows, maintenance of the plant, or be used for an area to clean out digesters. The WRF discharge currently meets effluent limitations, however, the long-term impacts on the plant and its ability to maintain discharge limits are of concern.

Due to the poor condition of some process areas and the increased loading at the WRF, along with several other operational and maintenance issues, the City has requested a Facility Plan to evaluate the current flows, loads, and facility conditions and identify near-term WRF improvements, and a Master Plan Update to serve as a strategic planning guide that will 1) identify long-term improvements needed to address condition, redundancy, and resiliency at the WRF; 2) establish the path forward to meet current growth commitments and plan for build - out conditions within the City’s Sphere of Influence; and, 3) meet future anticipated regulatory changes. The Facility Plan will provide a 6-year strategy for near-term improvements, and the Master Plan Update will include a 20-year roadmap to plan for build-out growth conditions and long-term improvements at the WRF.

PROJECT TEAM
We have selected a team that is both familiar with the City of Visalia and can provide specialized expertise in wastewater. Our team will provide you a technically sound and comprehensive plan to guide future WRF improvements. Ryan Sellman is the proposed principal-in-charge and will lead the project team. He brings extensive wastewater treatment experience and is familiar with handling facilities with similar operational and maintenance challenges. The project manager will be Reace Fisher, who will be responsible for day-to-day communication with the City and the project team. Reace will be supported by a team of qualified staff essential to meeting the project goals. Doug Wing, who has worked in wastewater treatment for the last several decades, will serve as the project’s technical advisor. He has served hundreds of clients with wastewater design projects throughout California that have occurred over the last 40 years. 65 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

Jennifer Pratt is our project engineer and has also worked with similar facilities in wastewater treatment, as well as Facility Plan and Master Plan development. Ray David who has over a decade of experience in wastewater treatment will be responsible for the biological model development and analysis and will be supported by technical lead Andre Gharagozian who has over 25 years of experience and specializes in nutrient removal evaluation and studies. Rashi Gupta will be the technical lead for the solids handling evaluation and has specialized in solids handling, biosolids management, and wastewater treatment with over 20 y ears of experience. To support the condition assessment of the WRF technical leads Mike Dadik and Eric Bahneman will perform the structural and electrical evaluations and assessments, respectively.

APPROACH
Through discussions with City staff, the highest items of concern at the WRF are the condition of the headworks and solids handling facilities and the current influent industrial loads to the facility. As part of the condition assessment and Facility Plan Report Carollo will focus on the critical near-term needs of the facility and provide the groundwork for development of the Master Plan Update with a 20-year horizon.

An accurate assessment of the existing facilities will be important to lay the framework for evaluating both near and long-term improvements for the WRF. Carollo will work closely with plant staff to identify flow data necessary for development of a biological model for the facility and evaluate the current condition of the WRF infrastructure with a primary focus on some of the aging infrastructure and how the facility is operated. Historical flow data will also be reviewed to determine any capacity challenges of the facility, and if there are changes in capacity based on seasonal flow. The comprehensive condition assessment will be conducted by Carollo’s technical discipline experts and will be coupled with workshops with leadership and staff to attain understanding, institutional knowledge of the facilities, and refine the strategies used to determine criticality of improvements.

With the results of the biological model and full condition assessment of the WRF, Carollo will work with the City to discuss the best options to improve the system and then operational alternatives can be simulated with the biological model to determine what improvements the City would like to make to improve the WRF process.

Improvements may include both operational and maintenance projects (i.e. sludge drying technology options or improvements, headworks improvements, digester rehabilitation, dewatering improvements to reduce flow to the digesters, and maintenance access).

In addition to the evaluation of improvements needed to meet the flow and loading requirements of the WRF, staff has expressed interest in evaluating options for environmental opportunit ies for the facility. Specifically, Carollo will include a discussion of options to:
 Provide and deliver recycled water by evaluating potential customers and delivery opportunities;  Production plan for development of Class A Biosolids without extensive testing; and  Improve energy opportunities and assess power needs through an evalua tion of the existing cogeneration facilities and existing energy study.
66 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

SCOPE OF WORK
TASK 1: CONDITION ASSESSMENT AND FACILITY PLAN REPORT
Task 1.1 - Project Management and Meetings
Project Management will include supervision of the project team, making sure the project is adequately staffed, and communication with the City staff. This task also includes management of the project budget and schedules, preparation of a monthly progress report, and incorporating Carollo’s quality management oversight and quality control to document processing and deliverables.

Meetings will be hybrid meetings or virtual meetings, where Carollo staff will call in virtually. Meetings will include:

1. Project Kick-off Meeting (1 meeting) (PIC, PM, and PE onsite, other staff virtual).

2. Biological Process Model Kick-off Meeting and Update Meetings (4 meetings) (PIC, and PM onsite, other staff virtual).

3. CIP Evaluation Workshops and Final CIP Review Meeting (3 meetings) (PIC, and PM onsite, other staff virtual).

Deliverables
 Monthly progress reports, including budget and schedule updates. Meeting agendas and minutes. (All provided in PDF format).

Task 1.2: Data Collection & Review
Carollo will review the background information for this project, which should include the following. If more information is available, the City should provide it to Carollo.

1. Previous master plan documents.

2. Previous hydraulic models, if any.

3. Record drawings for the facilities, including plant design criteria.

4. Current NPDES and WDR permits.

5. Plant data and sampling plans.

6. Previous reports and analysis completed for the facility.

7. Current General Plan and projected land use and growth updates.

8. Projected flows (e.g., peak flow, dry weather flow, etc.) and loadings from future land use and growth estimates.

Task 1.3: Flow Projection Analysis
Carollo will review, evaluate, and summarize historical flow data for the WRF. Flows and associated peaking factors will be evaluated on an average day annual, average day maximum month, and peak hourly basis. Carollo will evaluate existing process capacities and bottle-necks through the facility. This evaluation will be used to evaluate hydraulic conditions throughout the treatment plant based on projected wastewater flows. Also under this task, Carollo will update the influent flows and loads based on the Sanitary Sewer Master Plan that is being developed.

67 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

Task 1.4: Biological Process Model
This task includes the development of a steady-state biological process model of the WRF using a process modeling simulation software package (e.g., BioWin or GPS-X). The model will be used to assess solids accumulation and reduction through the plant process, predict nutrient concentrations, and evaluate the capacity of the secondary and solids handing facilities. Carollo will provide a list of additional data that is needed to develop the process model for the facility. This task will include review of existing flow (coupled with Task 1.3) and load data, assessment of operating conditions, completion of a capacity assessment of WRF process units to identify bottlenecks; evaluation of up to three (3) alternatives to remedy/reduce the bottlenecks, and determination of projects. This task will include preparation of a sampling plan, including testing location, constituent, type of testing, and frequency of testing. This sampling plan will be provided to the City and the City will perform (or contract) the testing. The sampling plan will summarize recommended data collection that is in addition to data normally collected by City staff. The primary purpose of collecting additional data is to have sufficient information to properly calibrate the process model. During the Master Plan development, this model can be used to simulate the plant under various loading conditions and used to establish design and sizing information for long-term operating and treatment alternatives.

The key constituents/parameters that are anticipated to be needed for the evaluation include:
 Soluble and Total COD, BOD5, TSS, TS, VSS, and VS. Key components to assess process performance, NPDES discharge compliance, sludge production, aeration demands, and overall mass balance.  Nitrogen species (NH3, NO2, NO3, TKN). Key components to assess overall process performance and aeration demands.  Phosphorus (Orthophosphate, Total Phosphorus). Evaluate Phosphorus removal.  Alkalinity and pH. Indicator of process upsets or operation under sub-optimal conditions. Insufficient alkalinity will suppress nitrification.
 Effluent Turbidity. Title 22 Reuse compliance.
 Salinity and Metals. NPDES Permit compliance.
 Final Effluent Coliform Count, UV Transmittance (UVT), and Power Usage. Assess the UV system performance and the power required for disinfection. UVT is a measure of transmittance and how efficient UV disinfection is per unit energy input .  Anaerobic Digester %TS, %VS, digester gas flow, and volatile acids. Assess overall dig estion process.  Operational Setpoints such as DO, recycle rates, and chemical usage rates. Information would supply information that would override default settings in the model or eliminate assumptions to be made on the setpoints.

The sampling plan will include location, frequency, and composite/grab sample information for the above constituents/parameters, but it is anticipated that locations would include influent, primary sedimentation basins’ effluent, primary sludge, aeration basin influent, membrane tank’s effluent, WAS/RAS, and effluent.

Based on the availability of the data, additional (filtered) data may be included in the sampling plan (e.g. filtered TKN) that would allow the team to more accurately model mixed liquor growth kinetics and nutrien t concentrations.

Carollo will conduct four meetings with the City to review the model assumptions and results. Carollo will share key advantages and considerations of the BioWin and GPS-X process modeling software packages during the Kick-off Meeting and will provide a recommendation to the City. The City will subsequently select which software they would like the project to use.
68 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

Deliverables
 Sampling plan, biological process model, and Biological Process Model Technical Memo.

Task 1.5: Condition Assessment
Carollo will perform a visual condition assessment of all above-ground assets including structural, mechanical, electrical/ instrumentation equipment at the WRF. The condition assessment will evaluate the conditions of each asset (That can be taken offline by the City, or assessed safely while it is in operation) to identify system deficiencies and will be used to identify rehabilitation and replacement (R&R) needs and projects. The assessment team will consist of specialists in structural, mechanical, and electrical/instrumentation disciplines and the findings will be used to report condition, near and long-term R&R needs, and expected remaining service life.

Deliverables
 Condition Assessment Findings Technical Memo.

Task 1.6: Evaluation of Environmental Opportunities
Carollo will evaluate the following potential environmental project options to include in the Near -Term and Long-Term CIPs. This task is looking at big picture issues and not detailing out each opportunity into a feasibility study.
 Provide and deliver recycled water by evaluating potential customers and delivery opportunities that are near the plant and large use customers;
 Production plan for development of Class A Biosolids (the facility currently produces Class B Biosolids); and  Improve energy opportunities and assess power needs through an evaluation of the existing cogeneration facilities and existing energy study. This will evaluate the amount of excess digester gas that may be available and options to use that gas as well as if there is a large enough demand at the facility to determine if other alternative sources of energy such as wind or solar would be feasible.

Deliverables
 Findings of Environmental Project Opportunities Technical Memo.

Task 1.7: Near-Term Project Descriptions
Under this task Carollo will work with City staff to develop descriptions for Near-Term Projects with a 6-year horizon. In a workshop with City staff, Carollo will present the findings from the evaluation of Environmental Opportunities (Task 1.6), issues identified from the biological process model (Task 1.4), and the condition assessment (Task 1.5), along with proposed initial solutions, and will work with staff to prioritize Near -Term Projects for further evaluation. A second workshop will be conducted by Carollo to present the final CIP evaluation, which will include pros and cons of the potential projects and initial planning level costs, and proposed rating of projects, and will work with City staff to develop a final project descriptions to be included the Near-Term CIP.

Deliverables
 Near-Term Project Descriptions Memo.

Task 1.8: Development of Near-Term Capital Improvement Program (CIP) 69 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

A 6-year horizon CIP will be prepared based on the Near-Term Project Descriptions developed from the workshops performed in Task 1.7. The Near-Term CIP will include planning level cost estimates and schedule.

Carollo will conduct several meetings with City staff to review the final Near-Term CIP and adjust as needed.

Deliverables
 Near-Term CIP Technical Memo.

Task 1.9: Project Financing Opportunities
Under this task Carollo will evaluate potential funding sources for implementing the Near -Term CIP and provide an overview of the fund sources, implementation requirements, and City cost-share requirements. It should be noted that this task does not include assistance with grant or loan applications but provides a list of funding options that the City can evaluate further.

Deliverables
 Near-Term CIP Financing Opportunities Technical Memo/List.

Task 1.10: Prepare Facility Plan Report
The findings, recommendations, and comments received from the previous tasks will be combined and presented in a Facility Plan Report. The final report will be provided to the City in electronic format. This task will include a draft and final report after receiving comments from the City.

Deliverables
 Draft and final report, electronic format copy.

TASK 2: MASTER PLAN UPDATE
Task 2.1: Project Management and Meetings
Project Management will include supervision of the project team, and communication with the City management staff. This task also includes management of the project budget and schedules, and preparation of a monthly progress report. Meetings will include:

1. Buildout Process Performance Evaluation Kick-off Meeting (1 meeting).

2. CIP Evaluation Workshops (2 meetings).

3. Final Master Plan CIP Review (1 meeting).

Deliverables
 Monthly progress reports, including budget and schedule updates.

Task 2.2: Buildout Process Performance Evaluation
Using the historical flow data for the WRF and the calibrated biological model, Carollo will evaluate the WRF process performance under buildout conditions. Much of the WRF analysis will be completed in the Facility Plan phase, and as such the level of effort for this task will be based on the evaluation model up to four (4) scenarios of the facility under Master Plan buildout flow and load conditions. Carollo will conduct a kick -off meeting for this task to review future flow and loads and discuss model scenarios to be considered for further evaluation.

Deliverables
 Buildout Process Performance Evaluation Memo.
70 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

Task 2.3: Regulatory Requirements Review and Strategic Plan Development Current and future discharge requirements will be reviewed as they pertain to impacts on treatment needs and discharge requirements. Under this task, Carollo will identify existing and potential future regulations that may require a change in the overall plan of the City’s treatment and disposal. Current and future biosol ids disposal requirements will also be reviewed with this and the impact of potential regulatory changes on biosolids disposal options will be assessed. A strategic plan will be developed to serve as a guide for the possibility of these changes. The plan will be developed for the following constituents:
 Effluent percolation/irrigation requirements.
 Salinity.
 Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs).
 Nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) control.

Deliverables
 Regulatory Requirements Review and Strategic Plan Memo.

Task 2.4: Update Descriptions of Existing Facilities
The existing facility descriptions will be updated to include the new upgrade since 2014. The facility descriptions will include an updated site plan and process flow diagram.

Deliverables
 Updated facility descriptions, site plan, process flow diagram.

Task 2.5: Master Plan Project Descriptions
Under this task Carollo will work with City staff to develop descriptions for Long-Term Projects with a 20-year planning horizon. In a workshop with City staff, Carollo will present the findings from the Buildout Process Performance Evaluation (Task 2.2) and the Regulatory Requirements Review and Strategic Plan Development (Task 2.3), along with proposed initial solutions, and will work with staff to prioritize Master Plan Projects for further evaluation. A second workshop will be conducted by Carollo to present the final CIP evaluation, which will include pros and cons of the potential projects and initial planning level costs, and proposed rating of projects, and will work with City staff to develop final project descriptions to be included the Master Plan CIP.

Deliverables
 Master Plan Project Descriptions Memo.

Task 2.6: Update Master Plan Capital Improvement Program A 20-year horizon CIP will be prepared using the analysis performed in the previous tasks to identify required future improvements. The Master Plan CIP will include planning level cost estimates, schedule, and phasing program. Carollo will conduct a meeting with City staff to review the final Master Plan CIP. 71 Mr. Nick Bartsch
City of Visalia
Public Works Department
March 8, 2023

Deliverables
 Master Plan CIP Technical Memo.

Task 2.7: Prepare Master Plan Update
The findings, recommendations, and comments received from the previous tasks, as well as the information from the Facility Plan Report, will be combined and presented in a Master Plan. An executive summary will be included in the master plan and will present the WRF findings and recommendations. The final report will be provided to the City in electronic format. This task will include a draft and final report after receiving comments from the City.

Deliverables
 Draft and final report, executive summary, responses to comments, electronic format copy.

Based on our experience with similar studies and discussions with City staff, we estimate a project timeline of approximately nine (9) months. This includes six (6) months to complete the Condition Assessment and Facility Plan and nine (9) months to complete the Master Plan Update. Work will be completed on a Lump Sum basis and billed by percent complete for each task provided in the attached fee proposal.

Sincerely,
CAROLLO ENGINEERS, INC.

Ryan Sellman, PE Reace Fisher, PE
Principal-in-Charge Project Manager

RS:sm

Attachments:
 Fee Proposal
72 Task Task Description

1.1 $40,100

1.2 $22,600

1.3 Flow Projection Analysis $22,200

1.4 $42,700

1.5 $26,000

1.6 $23,700

1.7 $25,700

1.8 $34,600

1.9 $15,400

1.10 $50,300
$303,300

2.1 $22,400

2.2 Buildout Process Perf ormance Evaluation $32,000

2.3 Regulatory Requirements Review and Strategic Plan Development $17,900

2.4 Update Descriptions of Existing Facilities $14,100

2.5 Master Plan Project Descriptions $49,700

2.6 Update Master Plan Capita l Improvement Program $43,500

2.7 Prepare Master Plan Update $32,500
$212,100
Total Project Costs: $515,400
Notes:

2. Budget is based on a 9-month overall project completion schedule.

1. Budget is based on an estimated level of effort based on our interpretation of the project requirements based our discussions with the Owner.

Total Cost
(1,2)

WATER RECLAMATION FACILITY - CONDITION ASSESSMENT, FACILITY PLAN AND MASTER

PLAN UPDATE
FEE

CITY OF VISALIA
March 2, 2023
Project Management and Meetings
Prepare Facility Plan Report
Project Management and Meetings
Evaluation of Environmental Opportunities
Near-Term Project Descriptions
Data Collection and Review
Biological Model
Condition Assessment
Master Plan Update Total Costs:

Project Financing Opportunities
Task 1: Condition Assessment and Facility Plan Report
Development of Near-Term Capital Improvement Program
Condition Assessment and Facility Plan Total Costs:

Task 2: Master Plan Update
73 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0116 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 6.

Agenda Item Wording:

Second reading of the Ordinance 2023-03 new Visalia Municipal Code Section 9.24.060 to be added to the City of Visalia Municipal Code establishing regulations prohibiting the unlawful possession of a catalytic converter in the City of Visalia.

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Police Department
Contact Name and Phone Number: Chief Jason Salazar, 559-713-4215, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> ; Captain Andrew Swarthout, 559-713-4035, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> ; Lieutenant Mike Verissimo, 559-713-4154, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> ; Sergeant Clay Moffett, 559-713-4240, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> ; Jim Koontz, City Attorney, 559-372-2400, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]> Department Recommendation:

It is recommended that the City Council approve Ordinance 9.24.060 to be added to the City of Visalia Municipal Code establishing regulations prohibiting the unlawful possession of a catalytic converter in the City of Visalia.

Summary:

In the City of Visalia and throughout the nation, the theft of catalytic converters has risen dramatically.

The following table depicts the increase in catalytic converter thefts reported to the Visalia Police Department over the past five years.

Number of Catalytic Converter Thefts
Year 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Totals 1 2 39 21 288 326
One of the factors contributing to the rise in catalytic converter thefts is the increase in the value of precious metals. Catalytic converters contain metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which makes catalytic converters an attractive target for criminal offenders. Furthermore, a catalytic converter is easily removed from a vehicle with the use of a reciprocating saw, which is a tool easily operated by criminal offenders. Once the catalytic converter is removed, offenders transport the converter to a scrap metal dealer and sell it for cash (ranging from $200-$1,200 per catalytic converter). The scrap metal dealer then extracts the precious metals to sell.

This proposed ordinance endeavors to provide the Visalia Police Department with clearly established legal authority to protect the public and deter this criminal activity by issuing fines and imprisonment Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 3
powered by Legistar™
74 File #: 23-0116 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 6.
to violators. Violators would be those that possess any catalytic converter(s) that are not attached to a vehicle, unless the Possessor has valid “Documentation or Other Reliable Proof” to verify that they are in lawful possession of the catalytic converter(s).

Background Discussion:

Catalytic converter thefts are challenging for law enforcement agencies to investigate due to the lack of serial numbers or other identifying markers on or within each unit. Currently, under California law, a police officer who encounters an individual in possession of a catalytic converter must locate the rightful owner before making an arrest for theft or possession of stolen property, which is difficult or impossible to accomplish without an identifying serial number. If the officer is unable to locate the rightful owner, which is often the case, the person in possession of the catalytic converter may be released, absent additional evidence of criminal activity.

There is currently no City, State, or Federal legislation to define and punish catalytic converter thefts without an identifiable victim, which is a challenge for law enforcement in addressing catalytic converter thefts. Attempts to pass legislation at the State level intended to curb the theft of catalytic converters has failed in the last couple of years. It is anticipated that several bills will be introduced at the State legislature in this coming year in another attempt to provide some relief to the significant increases in this type of crime that proves to be costly to the victims. The average cost of replacing a stolen catalytic converter and repairing the resulting damage can easily exceed $2,000 for the victim in addition to potentially leaving them without an operable vehicle for a period of time.

Due to these challenges, the citizens of Visalia and the Visalia Police Department seek this ordinance for multiple reasons including, but not limited to:

1. Deterrence by establishing a zero-tolerance for catalytic converter thefts.

2. Sanctions for possessing stolen catalytic converters in the form of a misdemeanor violation of the City Ordinance resulting in potential imprisonment or fines.

3. Preventing offenders from profiting from the sale and recycling of stolen catalytic converters.

4. Providing indirect justice to the victims of catalytic converter thefts.

5. Reducing Part One crimes, which have been negatively impacted by catalytic converter thefts.

6. Minimizing the fiscal impact on the City of Visalia related to personnel time which is devoted to deterring and investigating catalytic converter thefts.

The Visalia Police Department researched California municipalities that have drafted a catalytic converter city ordinance. The City of Huntington Beach adopted a similar ordinance in April of 2022 and the City of Irvine adopted their ordinance in October of 2021. At this time, neither agency had statistics to provide; however, both made claims of a decrease in overall catalytic converter thefts.

Just this last month, the City of Fresno adopted a similar ordinance in their efforts to deter catalytic converter theft.

Over time, the Department expects that the impact of this ordinance should reduce the number of catalytic converter thefts within the City of Visalia.

Fiscal Impact:

Enforcement of the proposed ordinance will be done by existing staff and will have no fiscal impact Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 3
powered by Legistar™
75 File #: 23-0116 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 6.
related to staffing.

Prior Council Action: First reading of the Ordinance 2023-03 new Visalia Municipal Code Section

9.24.060 on March 20, 2023.

Other: N/A
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

Approve Ordinance 2023-XX new Visalia Municipal Code Section 9.24.060 to be added to the City of Visalia Municipal Code establishing regulations prohibiting the unlawful possession of a catalytic converter in the City of Visalia.

Environmental Assessment Status: The requested action is considered exempt under Section 15061(b)(3) Per section 15061 (b) (3) of the State Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). A Notice of Exemption has been prepared for the project because Section 15061 (b) (3) states that the project is exempted from CEQA if the activity is covered by the commonsense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. The proposed ordinance will establish regulations prohibiting the unlawful possession of catalytic converters to protect the public and deter this criminal activity.

CEQA Review: The requested action is considered exempt under Section 15061(b)(3) Per section 15061 (b) (3) of the State Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). A Notice of Exemption (NOE No. 2023-01) has been prepared for the project and is attached to the staff report.

Attachments: Proposed Ordinance 2023-03, Notice of Exemption (NOE No. 2023-01) Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 3
powered by Legistar™
76 ORDINANCE 2023-_____

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VISALIA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING SECTION 9.24.060 TO THE CITY OF VISALIA

MUNICIPAL CODE ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS PROHIBITING

THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF CATALYTIC COVNERTERS IN THE CITY

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VISALIA:

Section 1. City Council Findings. Consistent with its control over municipal affairs and the powers vested in the City of Visalia through the California Constitution, the City of Visalia is authorized to secure and promote the public health, comfort, safety, and welfare of its citizenry.

The City Council of the City of Visalia hereby makes the following findings:

A. The citizens of Visalia and the region have experienced increasing catalytic converter thefts from automobiles over the past several years.

B. It is difficult to define and punish catalytic converter thefts absent an identifiable victim and used catalytic converters can be difficult if not impossible to trace once they are illegally removed from a vehicle.

C. The lack of any City, State, or Federal law addressing the possession of non- installed catalytic converters applicable within the City of Visalia that requires individuals to provide proof to law enforcement as to how they obtaine d the catalytic converter(s), limits law enforcement’s ability to: 1) protect the public by deterring catalytic converter thefts, 2) seize suspected stolen catalytic converters when no victim is present, and 3) prosecute those possessing catalytic converters who cannot prove lawful possession of them.

D. Catalytic converter thefts are on the rise because individuals are incentivized to commit catalytic converter thefts for multiple reasons including, but not limited to: 1) the ease and undetectable nature of committing such thefts, potentially in a matter of seconds, 2) the ability to recycle catalytic converters at scrap metal yards for high dollar retunes (ranging from $200- $1,200 per catalytic converter), and 3) omissions in legislation protecting suspected criminals from prosecution unless a theft victim can be identified.

E. Preventing these crimes at present is nearly impossible due to the ease and speed with which catalytic converter thefts can be committed and the difficulty of tracing a particular catalytic converter back to its prior owner (the victim), because catalytic converters typically have no identifying markers.

77 F. The citizens of Visalia and the Visalia Police Department need legislation criminalizing the possession of catalytic converters absent proof of ownership or lawful possession.

The need for protective legislation will serve multiple reasons including, but not limited to: 1) achieving deterrence by establishing zero-tolerance for catalytic converter thefts, 2) establishing penalties for possessing stolen catalytic converters, 3) preventing criminals from profiting from the sale and recycling of stolen catalytic converters, 4) providing indirect justice to the victims of catalytic converter theft cases that have gone or will go unsolved for the reasons discussed above, 5) minimizing the fiscal and personnel impact on the City of Visalia and the Visalia Police Department by reducing the time invested in deterring and investigating catalytic converter thefts, and 6) provide Visalia Police department personnel an enforcement tool which directly responds to their law enforcement needs.

G. It is well established that individuals who are in possession of stolen catalytic converters then recycle them for substantial profit while both the community and the victims of these thefts suffer tremendous consequences in the form of costly repairs, inconvenience, and feelings of lack of safety in the community.

H. The City Council finds that this local ordinance is appropriate and necessary to provide the City of Visalia and the Visalia Police Department clear legal authority to better protect the public and deter this criminal activity.

I. All legal preconditions to the adoption of the Ordinance have occurred as required by law.

Section 2. New Municipal Code Section. The following provision, which regulates the possession of a catalytic converter, is hereby added to the Visalia Municipal Code:

9.24.060 – Unlawful possession of a catalytic converter.

It shall be unlawful for any person, group, or “Possessor” to possess any catalytic converter(s) that is not attached to a vehicle, unless the Possessor has valid “Documentation or Other Reliable Proof” to verify that they are in lawful possession of the catalytic converter(s).

A. For purposes of this section, “lawful possession” includes 1) being the lawful owner of the catalytic converter , or 2) in possession of the catalytic converter with the lawful owner’s written consent, or 3) owners and employees of a licensed business involving the legal purchase and sale of catalytic converters may possess them during lawful business operations. It is not required to prove the catalytic converter 78 was stolen to establish the possession is not a “lawful possession” and any of the following may also be considered to determine that possession of a catalytic converter is unlawful:

1. The catalytic converter has been cut or otherwise shows marks or damage consistent with illegal removal.

2. The person in possession of the catalytic converter is also in possession of tools that can be used in the illicit removal of catalytic converters.

3. The catalytic converter has markings that associate it with a particular vehicle or make or model of vehicle not associated with the person in possession of the catalytic converter.

4. The person is not able to reasonably account for the origin of the catal ytic converter.

5. The person is in possession of, or has sold or attempted to sell, multiple catalytic converters outside of the scope of a licensed business enterprise.

B. For purposes of this section, “Documentation or Other Reliable Proof” means a sales receipt, other proof of purchase, or written document(s) that identifies proof of ownership of catalytic converters or ownership of the vehicle from which a used catalytic converter originated based on the totality of the circumstances, and includes, but is not limited to, the following types of documents:

1. Verifiable bill of sale from the original owner.

2. Documentation from an auto-body shop proving that the owner relinquished the catalytic converter to the auto-body shop.

3. Verifiable electronic communication from the previous owner to the possessor relinquishing ownership of the catalytic converter.

4. Photographs or similar visual representation of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter originated.

5. Certificate of title or registration that identifies the individual as the legal or registered owner of the vehicle from which the catalytic conver ter was detached.
79 C. Each violation of this section shall constitute a separate violation, including but not limited to, possessing multiple catalytic converters during a single contact by law enforcement or the locating of catalytic converters at other locations but arising from the initial contact by law enforcement or any other circumstance connecting the potential violator to the unlawful possession of the catalytic converter(s) and shall be subject to all remedies and enforcement measures authorized by the Visalia Municipal Code. For clarity, each catalytic converter unlawfully possessed is a separate violation of this section.

D. It is unlawful and a misdemeanor subject to punishment in accordance with section

1.12.010 of the Visalia Municipal Code for any person to violate any provision of this section. The general rule stating violations of this chapter shall be treated as infractions does not apply to violations of this section 9.24.060.

E. The remedies provided herein are not to be construed as exclusive remedies. The city is authorized to pursue any proceedings or remedies provided by law.

Section 3. California Environmental Quality Act Requirements. This Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because there is no possibility that this Ordinance or its implementation would have a significant negative effect on the environment. (14 Cal. Code Regs. 15061(b)(3).) City staff shall cause a Notice of Exemption to be filed as authorized by CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines.

Section 4. Severability. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of the Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more secti on, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

Section 5. Effective Date. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance and this Ordinance shall be published as required by law and shall take effect thirty (30) days from the date of adoption.

PASSED AND ADOPTED:

80 81
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

Review and comment on the proposed use of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME), and HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) funds including: 1) The Draft Program Year (PY) 2023 Annual Action Plan, 2) the Draft PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, and the Draft PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment, including the Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment.

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Finance and Technology Services
Contact Name and Phone Number: Margie Perez, Housing Specialist, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, (559)713-4460; Melody Murch Assistant Finance Director, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, (559)713-4379; Renee Nagel, Finance Director, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, (559)713-4375 Department Recommendation:

That Council review and comment on the Draft CDBG and HOME priorities and allocation of resources included in the Draft Program Year (PY) 2023 Annual Action Plan, Draft PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, and Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment, and receive public comment.

Background Discussion:

Staff is seeking direction from City Council on the priorities and activity allocations proposed for year 4 of a 5-year Consolidated Plan (ConPlan), Program Year (PY) 2023 (Fiscal Year 2023-2024) Annual Action Plan, PY 2022 (Fiscal Year 2022-2023) Action Plan Amendment, and PY 2021 (Fiscal Year 2021-2022) Action Plan Amendment, including the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment. The proposed programs for the Draft PY 2023 Action Plan were formulated based upon applications received in response to a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for the available funding. At this time Council can change the draft PY 2023 Annual Action Plan and prior year Amendments; however, it would requirement an amendment to the current 5-year ConPlan that will end on June 30, 2025. Staff recommends focusing on establishing new activities in the next 5-year ConPlan, which planning will begin in the fall of this year.

Staff is also requesting Council review and comment on the proposed PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment that includes the draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment. The City has been awarded $1,840,059 in HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assist people experiencing homelessness, at-risk of homelessness, and other vulnerable populations by providing housing, non- congregate shelters, rental assistance, and/or supportive services to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability. This amendment will satisfy the HUD requirement to submit a HOME-ARP Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 9
powered by Legistar™
82 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

Allocation Amendment for the use of this PY 2021 funding.

Staff will incorporate any changes directed by Council and return with the final PY 2023 Annual Action Plan, PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, and PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the HOME- ARP Allocation Plan Amendment on April 17, 2023, to a public hearing for adoption. The final plan and amendments will include any comments provided by Council today, those received during the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) on April 5, 2023, and all public comments received during the 30- day public comment period beginning on March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023. The adopted PY 2023 Annual Action Plan must be submitted to HUD by May 15, 2023.

As an entitlement community (EC) for CDBG and a participating jurisdiction (PJ) for HOME, the City of Visalia received annual federal formula grants through HUD. This provides the City with annual direct grant funding primarily for the benefit of low-income persons and households. As required by HUD, the City develops a 5-year Strategic Plan based on a Community Needs Assessment which is reviewed and approved by Council during the development of the Consolidated Plan (ConPlan). The PY 2023 Annual Action Plan is the fourth year of the current 5-year ConPlan and the plan objectives have been produced based upon those established in the City’s 5-year Strategic Plan.

PY 2023 Proposed Annual Action Plan: The proposed PY 2023 Annual Action Plan consist of a total $1,250,000 in CDBG projected resources, and $1,345,000 in HOME projected resources. The PY 2023 proposed CDBG and HOME resources, activities, and funding allocations are explained in further detail below.

PY 2023 Proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Revenue and Expenses:

The CDBG PY 2023 resources consist of $1,200,000 in estimated annual grant allocation, and $50,000 in estimated program income for a total of $1,250,000 in PY 2023 CDBG resources as identified in Table 1: 2023 CDBG Projected Resources. *CDBG program income is generated from repayment of CDBG funded first-time homebuyer and occupied rehabilitation loans.

Table 1: PY 2023 CDBG Projected Resources
Resources Amount
PY 2023 Annual Allocation $ 1,200,000
PY 2023 Program Income 50,000
Total PY 2023 CDBG Projected Resources $ 1,250,000 The proposed programs for the PY 2023 Action Plan were formulated based upon applications received in response to a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA). A NOFA was released to allow all interested parties to apply for available funding to administer programs in accordance with the City’s 5-year ConPlan goals and priorities approved by Council on April 20, 2020. The City released a NOFA from January 15th through February 15th, 2023, to solicit applications for the administration of the City’s PY 2023 CDBG public services, emergency, and accessibility home repair program, and senior/disabled mobile home repair program. The NOFA was published in the Visalia Times Delta on 1/12/23 and 1/19/23. The NOFA was also posted on the City’s purchasing website, the Central Valley Purchasing System “BidNet”, and on the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv on January 20, 2023, which has over 330 recipients.

As a result of the release of the CDBG NOFA, the City received the following applications:

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 9
powered by Legistar™
83 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.
· Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance - Requested $20,000 in CDBG funds for existing programs.

The Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance (KTHA) is the designated Continuum of Care (CoC) for our region. The CoC is recommended by HUD as a comprehensive and strategic approach to addressing homelessness and to promote communitywide cooperation and commitment to ending homelessness. As the designated CoC, KTHA oversees the Point in Time (PIT) Count.

KTHA oversees the administration of HUD funded Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) and Rapid Rehousing (RRH) programs, as well as the Coordinated Entry System (CES) which begins the process of housing placement. KTHA also operates the Visalia Local Initiatives Navigation Center (LINC) to provide weekly wrap-around services including mental health assessments/enrollments, housing counseling, free birth certificates, CA ID vouchers, mainstream benefit enrollment, social security advocacy, substance abuse program enrollments, veteran services, food assistance, prescription eyeglasses, and clothing assistance.
· Family Services of Tulare County - Requested $50,000 for the “Voucher” program to continue providing case management and essential supportive services to chronically homeless persons in Visalia who are receiving a PSH voucher through the HUD funded Tulare Housing First grants, previously known as the Shelter Plus Care program. The requested funds would also contribute towards the match required for the receipt of the HUD funded Tulare Housing First grant funds. The Tulare Housing First program is funded with federal (HUD) funds and vouchers are available countywide. Family Services assist clients to maintain housing stability, by providing case management, financial literacy, life skills workshops, transportation assistance, and emergency assistance, such as food, clothing, and furniture assistance.

Family Services also serves as a landlord liaison for clients. · Kings View PATH Program - Requested $50,000 to leverage existing funding sources and provide direct client services for outreach, case management, transportation assistance, legal document assistance, linkage to employment services, and completion of the VI-SPDAT (Vulnerability Index-Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool) assessment to begin housing placements. Requested funding would provide direct client assistance including rental security deposits, rental application fees, motel vouchers, legal document fees, interview clothing assistance, food vouchers, hygiene kits, and emergency rental assistance to prevent homelessness.
· Self-Help Enterprises - Requested $100,000 to administer a Senior/Disabled Mobile Home Repair Program (SMHRP) and provide at least 7 senior and/or disabled owner-occupied mobile homeowners with necessary repairs including roof repair/replacement, accessibility improvements, floor repair/replacement, and energy efficient improvements.

Staff Recommended PY 2023 Annual Action Plan Activities (Attachment D):

A discussion of the proposed PY 2023 Annual Action Plan activities and their respective funding follows below. A summary of the proposed funding has also been provided in Attachment D. Staff requests that Council comment, discuss, and direct any necessary changes to the proposed project and program allocations. The PY 2023 CDBG administration and planning budget is $250,000, which is 20% of the combined total of grant allocation and projected program income.

The PY 2023 Proposed CDBG Public Services are listed below and included in Table 2: PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Public Services.
· Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance - At $20,000 for weekly operation of the Visalia Local Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 9
powered by Legistar™
84 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

Initiatives Navigation Center (LINC) to provide wrap-around services for people experiencing homelessness, including mental health assessments/enrollments, housing counseling, birth certificates, CA ID vouchers, mainstream benefit enrollment, social security advocacy, substance abuse program enrollments, veteran services, hygiene kits, and food. KTHA will also oversee the annual PIT count expected in January 2024. · Family Services of Tulare County - At $50,000 for the “Voucher” program to continue providing case management and supportive services to chronically homeless persons in Visalia who are receiving a Tulare Housing First permanent supportive housing voucher. These funds are also used as match to secure the Tulare Housing First grants and PSH vouchers. The Tulare Housing First program is funded with a federal (HUD) grant and vouchers are available countywide.
· Kings View PATH Program - At $50,000 to provide direct homeless services and homeless prevention services which will include case management, transportation assistance, legal document assistance, linkage to employment services, and completion of the VI-SPDAT assessment. Direct client assistance includes security deposits, rental application fees, motel vouchers, legal document fees, interview clothing assistance, food vouchers, hygiene kits, and emergency rental assistance to prevent evictions.
· Fair Housing Education - At $7,500 to provide fair housing education which was identified as a community need during the development of the 5-year ConPlan and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice.

Table 2: PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Public Services
Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance $ 20,000
Family Services Voucher Program 50,000 Kings View PATH Program 50,000
Fair Housing Education 7,500
Total PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Public Services $ 127,500 The PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Affordable Housing Projects are listed below and included in Table 3:

PY 2023 CDBG Projected Affordable Housing.
· Self-Help Enterprises - At $75,000 to administer a Senior Mobile Home Repair Program (SMHRP) to provide 6 senior and/or disabled owner-occupied mobile homeowners with necessary repairs including roof repair/replacement, accessibility improvements, floor repair/replacement, and energy efficient improvements. Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) applied for $100,000; however, only $75,000 in SMHRP funds were expensed by SHE for this program in FY 2021-2022. As a result, the PY 2023 CDBG NOFA only advertised $75,000 for a Senior Mobile Repair Program.
· Code-Enforcement - At $175,000 to provide code enforcement inspections in CDBG eligible low-moderate income target areas to address substandard housing. This funding pays the full cost of one staff position which is responsible for code enforcement in CDBG Target Areas.

This staff persons has been funded with CDBG annually for 25+ years. Code Enforcement activities were identified as an objective during the development of the 5-year Consolidated Plan.

Table 3: PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Affordable Housing
Senior Mobile Home Repair Program $ 75,000
Code Enforcement 175,000
Total PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Affordable Housing $ 250,000 Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 4 of 9
powered by Legistar™
85 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.Table 3: PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Affordable Housing Senior Mobile Home Repair Program $ 75,000
Code Enforcement 175,000
Total PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Affordable Housing $ 250,000 The PY 2023 CDBG proposed facility improvement projects are listed below and included in Table 4: PY 2023 CDBG Projected Facility Improvement Projects. · ADA Compliance Project - Tree Wells - $622,500 for ADA Compliance Projects, which includes design and construction for tree well rehabilitation in the downtown area per the request of the Disability Advocacy Committee (DAC) in 2020, prior to its disbandment into the Citizens Advisory Committee. The current condition of the tree wells creates barriers to accessibility in the downtown area and this project is a high priority for the DAC. *Any increase or decrease of PY 2023 CDBG annual allocation or program income will be an adjustment to ADA Compliance Project.

Table 4: PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Facility Improvement Projects ADA Compliance Projects - Tree Wells Project $ 622,500 Total PY 2023 CDBG Proposed Public Facility Improvement Projects $ 622,500 PY 2023 Proposed HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) Revenue and Expenses:

The PY 2023 HOME projected revenue includes $545,000 in HOME estimated annual grant allocation, and $800,000* in estimated program income as identified in Table 5: PY 2023 HOME Projected Resources. *HOME program income is normally generated from repayment of HOME funded first-time homebuyer or owner-occupied rehabilitation loans. However, a higher HOME program income is expected due to the sale of 5-single family HOME funded homes on NW 5th Avenue and N Court Street.

Table 5: PY 2023 HOME Projected Resources
PY 2023 Annual Allocation $ 545,000
PY 2023 Program Income 800,000
Total PY 2023 HOME Projected Resources $ 1,345,000 The PY 2023 Proposed HOME funding is listed below and included in Table 6: PY 2023 HOME Proposed Funding.
· HOME Administration: $75,000 for PY 2023 HOME Admin and Planning. This amount is well within the 10% allowed for administration of the HOME program by HUD. · The Lofts Project: $634,375 towards construction of an 80-unit affordable rental housing complex. The PY 2023 HOME funds directed to the Lofts Project will be funded with HOME program income received from the sale of the five affordable single-family houses constructed at NW 5th Avenue. This final piece of funding will complete the City’s HOME commitment of $2,350,898 to the Lofts Project, which was approved by Council on 11/16/2020.
· HOME CHDO Multi-Family: $635,325 to HOME CHDO Multi- development as approved by Council in the current 5-year Consolidated Plan. As a HOME Participation Jurisdiction, the City is required to provide at least 15% of the annual HOME funds awarded to a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) to develop affordable housing. Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) is currently the only CHDO for the City Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 5 of 9
powered by Legistar™
86 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.
of Visalia. The CHDO 15% has been combined with additional HOME funds to provide for a CHDO multi-family project as specified in the current 5-Year ConPlan. A HOME CHDO multi-family project has not yet been identified, a CHDO would need to provide a proposal for a potential eligible HOME CHDO mulit-family project. Staff will return at a later date with a HOME CHDO multi-family project proposal for Council’s review and approval. *Any increase or decrease of PY 2023 HOME annual allocation or program income will be an adjustment to the HOME CHDO Multi-Family project.

Table 6: PY 2023 HOME Proposed Funding
HOME Administration $ 75,000
The Lofts Project 634,375
HOME CHDO-Multi-Family 635,625
Total PY 2023 HOME Proposed Funding $ 1,345,000 The PY 2022 Annual Action Plan Amendment:

The Program Year (PY) 2022 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan (AAP) Amendment includes $150,000 of additional program income and reappropriation of $7,500 in unspent fair housing education funds, due to not having a fair housing conference in FY 22-23.

Additional fair housing education funds will be included in the FY 23-24 Action Plan for an in-person fair housing conference. A total of $157,000 of CDBG funds will be appropriated towards the existing ADA Compliance Project - Transit Pathway (CP0420), bringing the total of that project to $499,940, as shown below in Table 7: PY 2022 CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment.

Table 7: PY 2022 CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment
Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
PY 2022 Annual Allocation $ 1,183,482 $ - $ 1,183,482 PY 2022 Program Income 50,000 150,000 $ 200,000 Prior Year Resources 1,834,163 - $ 1,834,163 Total Resources $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
Administration $ 262,500 $ - $ 262,500 Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance 20,000 - 20,000 Family Services Voucher Program 45,000 - 45,000 Kings View PATH Program 35,000 - 35,000 Fair Housing Education 7,500 (7,500) - Emergency Repair and ADA Program 50,000 - 50,000 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program 100,000 - 100,000 Code Enforcement 150,000 - 150,000 ADA Compliance Project - Transit Pathway CP0420 342,440 157,500 499,940 Navigation Center Development 2,055,205 - 2,055,205 Total Expenditures $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645 The PY 2022 HOME Annual Action Plan Amendment includes reappropriation of $120,000 of prior Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 6 of 9
powered by Legistar™
87 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.
year HOME resources from unspent Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program funds contracted to end on December 31, 2022, toward a First Time Homebuyer (FTHB) assistance program for additional secondary financing for the five HOME assisted single-family homes developed on NW 5th Avenue and N Court Street, bringing the NW 5th Avenue Project HOME FTHB assistance total to $245,000, as shown below in Table 8: PY 2022 HOME Annual Action Plan Amendment.

Table 8: PY 2022 HOME Annual Action Plan Amendment
Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
PY 2022 HOME Allocation $ 546,791 $ - $ 546,791 PY 2022 Program Income 200,000 - 200,000 Prior Year Funds - 120,000 120,000 Total Resources $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
HOME Admin $ 70,750 $ - $ 70,750 First Time Homebuyer Program - NW 5 125,000 120,000 245,000 The Lofts Project 551,041 - 551,041 Total Expenditures $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791 HOME-ARP Funds: The City has been awarded $1,840,059 in 2021 HOME-ARP funds to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability for the following Qualifying Populations (QP). · Homeless
· At-risk of homelessness
· Fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking
· Greatest risk of housing instability
o Annual income less than 30% of the area median income (AMI) and is experiencing severe cost burden (i.e., paying more than 50% of monthly household income toward housing costs)
o Annual income less than 50% of the AMI and meets one of the conditions of “At risk of homelessness” as defined in 24 CFR 91.5(iii)
At risk of homelessness as defined under 24 CFR 91.5(iii) must meet one of the following conditions:
· Has moved due to economic reasons two or more times during the 60-days immediately preceding the application for homelessness prevention assistance; or · Is living in the home of another because of economic hardship; or · Has been notified in writing that their right to occupy their current housing or living situation will be terminated; or
· Lives in a hotel or motel and cost is not paid by charitable organizations or by federal, state, or local government programs; or
· Lives in severely overcrowded housing; or
· Is exiting a public funded institution or system of care (i.e., health-care facility, mental health facility, foster care or other youth facility, or correction facility).

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 7 of 9
powered by Legistar™
88 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

HOME-ARP funds can be used for the following four eligible activities:

1. Permanent Affordable Rental Housing

2. Non-Congregate Shelters

3. Tenant-Based Rental Assistance

4. Supportive Services
The HOME-ARP funds required a Community Needs Assessment to be completed to identify the use of HOME-ARP funds. The Community Needs Assessment identified the most needed eligible activity was for Permanent Affordable Rental Housing and most needed target was people experiencing homelessness.

The Majestic Project - On December 20, 2021, Council approved the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for $1.8 million in HOME-ARP and $900,000 in Successor Agency Housing (SAH) funds for the development of Permanent Affordable Rental Housing for HOME-ARP Qualifying Populations. Staff released RFP-21-22-28 Development of Permanent Affordable Rental Housing for Qualifying Populations in the spring of 2022. On April 18, 2022, Council awarded RFP 21-22-28 to the RH Community Builders to develop the Majestic Motel into Permanent Affordable Rental Housing for people experiencing homelessness in accordance with HOME-ARP Qualifying Populations, with the use of $1.8 million in HOME-ARP and $900,000 in SAH funds. This project is currently undergoing an environmental review, which is expected to be completed this summer, allowing the City to move forward with the contracts for this project.

HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment - When the original HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was established in early spring of 2022, a HOME-ARP project had not yet been identified. As a result, the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan is being amended to provide preference for HOME-ARP Qualifying Populations people experiencing homeless for the HOME-ARP funded Majestic Project, as shown in Attachment C: Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment.

Public Hearing for Adoption: Staff will return to Council with the final drafts of the PY 2023 Annual Action Plan, PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, and PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment include the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment on April 17, 2023, to hold a public hearing for adoption. This will include the comments provided by Council today, those received at the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting on April 5, 2023, and all public comments received during the 30-day public review period commencing March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023, including those received tonight, and at the April 17th public hearing. The adopted PY 2023 Annual Action Plan must be submitted to HUD no later than May 15, 2023.

Fiscal Impact:

All expenditures proposed in this item will be funded with CDBG, HOME, and HOME-ARP grant funds and no General Fund money is to be included. All proposed budget amounts will become amendments to the current City 2-year budget.

Prior Council Action: Click or tap here to enter text.
· April 20, 2020 - Adoption of 5-year (2020/21 - 2024/25) Consolidated Plan Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 8 of 9
powered by Legistar™
89 File #: 23-0082 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.
· November 16, 2020 - Council authorized a preliminary award letter for a commitment to Self-Help Enterprises in $2,350,898 of HOME funds to construct the Lofts 80-unit mulit-family project. · December 20, 2021 - HOME-ARP Public Hearing to review and comment on the development of HOME-ARP Allocation Plan.
· April 18, 2022 - Approval of RFP-21-22-28 to RH Community Builders for $1.8 million in HOME-ARP funds and $900,000 in Successor Agency Housing (SAH) funds for the development of the Majestic Motel to Permanent Affordable Rental Housing.

Other: None
Alternatives: None
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

No motion required.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Attachments:

A: Draft 2023 Annual Action Plan Attachment
B: Draft 2022 Action Plan Amendment Attachment
C: Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment Attachment
D: Draft 2023 AAP & 2022 AAP Amendment Tables Attachment E: Draft 2023 AAP, 2022 Amendment, & 2021 Amendment PPT

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 9 of 9
powered by Legistar™
90 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 1 | P a g e

91 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 2 | P a g e

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 3 AP-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 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 – 91.105, 91.200(c) ................................................................................................. 14 Expected Resources .................................................................................................................................... 16 AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2) ........................................................................................... 16 Annual Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 20 Projects ................................................................................................................................................... 23 AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d) ..................................................................................................................... 23 AP-38 Project Summary .......................................................................................................................... 25 AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f) ............................................................................................. 30 Affordable Housing ..................................................................................................................................... 31 AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g) ................................................................................................... 31 AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h) ........................................................................................................... 33 AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) ............................................................ 35 AP-75 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.220(j) .................................................................................. 38 AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k) ............................................................................................................ 40 Program Specific Requirements .................................................................................................................. 43 Appendix “A” – Summary Detail ................................................................................................................. 46

92 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 3 | P a g e

Executive Summary
AP-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b)

1. Introduction
The City of Visalia (City) is an entitlement jurisdiction for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and a participating jurisdiction for HOME Investment Partnerships Act Program (HOME). As a required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the City develops a Consolidated Plan (ConPlan) every five years to guide the use of federal CDBG and HOME funding. The 5-Year ConPlan is the guiding document for allocating these resources which support projects and programs that benefit low- and moderate-income people by increasing housing and economic opportunities, strengthening low-income neighborhoods, and addressing public service and infrastructure needs. The Annual Action Plan (AAP) is also required by HUD each year of the five-year cycle and will summarize the programs and projects that will be funded by the annual grants to achieve the goals and objectives of the ConPlan. Annual accomplishments are reported on progress toward ConPlan goals in the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER).

2. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Our strategy for community improvement using CDBG and HOME funds will focus on five broad goals.

These goals are:
• Improve housing opportunities for low-income households through new construction, mortgage and rental assistance, senior housing, housing for the disabled, and rehabilitation of homes/mobile home.
• Provide for a suitable living environment for low-income individuals and/or areas through Tenant-based subsidies and property maintenance (Code Enforcement):
• Address community/special needs through shelters, counseling, youth services, and domestic violence services.
• Address the needs of persons who are homeless with transitional housing, permanent housing, voucher programs, and tenant-based rental assistance.
• Improve public infrastructure and facilities in the community. • Provide optimal program administration and oversight of the CDBG and HOME programs to continue planning efforts that address the needs of extremely low, very low, and low-income households and neighborhoods.

Details of our plan to meet these goals can be found in the strategies the City has identified below with the following labels:
93 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 4 | P a g e

• Increase affordable housing for LMI households in the City of Visalia • Create suitable living environments for renters/homeowners in the City of Visalia • Address community/special needs and services
• Address the needs of people experiencing homelessness • Enhance community development
• Provide efficient administration and oversight of the CDBG and HOME programs

3. Evaluation of past performance
The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires an evaluation of the City’s progress toward goals for the CDBG and HOME funds each year of the five-year ConPlan period. Over the past five-year ConPlan period, 2015 to 2019, the City has supported organizations providing services to populations in need and addressed the lack of affordable housing through partnerships with the Housing Authority, and non-profit organizations, including Self-Help Enterprises (SHE), a local low-income housing provider. The City has allocated grant funding to the following:
• Fair Housing Council of Central California (FHCCC), assisting 184 people by handling housing discrimination complaints and agency referrals, holding seminars and educational workshops, and conducting discrimination testing;
• Acquisition of the -Self Help Enterprises. Inc. (SHE) public facility for bridge/transitional housing; • Self Help Enterprises on policy development and provision of grants for the mobile home repair program, and acquisition and rehabilitation of affordable housing and rental units; • Family Services of Tulare County, providing HOME funded tenant based rental assistance and case management;
• ADA Compliance Public Improvement projects;
• Park improvements (Jefferson Park, Community Lot Garden); • Section 108 loan payments; and
• Support to providers of assistance to homeless and low-income populations.

4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process The 2023 Annual Action Plan goals were established based on high priority needs as identified in the 2020-2024 ConPlan. The City used several community outreach methods including public meetings, two surveys, and stakeholder consultations. Efforts to reach populations underrepresented in the planning process of the ConPlan included discussions regarding the survey with various housing, social service, faith-based, and other organizations that provide services to the disabled, special needs, low income, and homeless population community. Many of the organizations that assisted in the effort to distribute the surveys posted them on their websites and sent notification to their partners and clientele. The surveys were provided in English and Spanish.

Several stakeholders were also consulted during public workshops, over the phone, and in-person at their offices. Such stakeholders included, but were not limited to, Housing providers, Health service 94 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 5 | P a g e

providers, social service providers, Organizations representing protected classes, Fair housing, Broadband internet providers, Emergency management organizations, the Citizens Advisory Committee, the Disability Advocacy Committee, and additional local and regional stakeholders.

In addition, the Program Year 2023 Annual Action Plan 30-day public comment period took place from March 17, 2023 through April 17, 2023. A Public notice was published in the Visalia Times Delta on March 15, 2023 and March 17, 2023. The draft 2023 Annual Action Plan was available for review on the City's website at www.visalia.city. Public notices also sent to the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv and the City's social media channels. The City also held the following community and city council meetings:
• City Council (Draft Review) on April 3, 2023 at 7:00pm • Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) on April 5, 2023 at 5:30pm • City Council Public Hearing (Adoption) on April 17, 2023 at 7:00pm

5. Summary of public comments
This could be a brief narrative summary or reference an attached document from the Citizen Participation section of the Con Plan.

Summary of comments will be added following the public comment period.

6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them All comments will be accepted and taken into consideration.

7. Summary
The City of Visalia conducted several public meetings and hearings to gather input and review the 2020- 2024 Consolidated Plan. In addition, the City held stakeholder meetings with multiple community and regional organizations and agencies providing services to low income and homeless populations. The City has reviewed several plans to gather information for the development of this Plan that included the City of Visalia Housing Element for 2020-2023, which was being drafted concurrently with the Consolidated Plan. A summary of the full citizen participation of the 2023 Annual Action Plan will be included as Attachment A.
95 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 6 | P a g e

PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies – 91.200(b)

1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan Describe the agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.

Agency Role Name Department/Agency
Lead Agency VISALIA
CDBG Administrator VISALIA Finance Department-Housing Division HOPWA Administrator N/A N/A
HOME Administrator VISALIA Finance Department- Housing Division HOPWA-C Administrator N/A N/A
Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative (optional)
The City of Visalia (City) is the Lead Agency for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) entitlement programs at the City of Visalia. The City’s Finance Department, Housing Division administers the funds it receives under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
Margie Perez
City of Visalia – Housing Specialist
Finance Department - Housing Division
707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia, CA 93291
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (559) 713-4460
96 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 7 | P a g e

AP-10 Consultation – 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)

1. Introduction
The City has fostered a community engagement process and gathered public input on community improvements that could be addressed by utilizing federal entitlement funds. During the preparation of the 5-year ConPlan, the City facilitated a community outreach and engagement effort to further strengthen the dialogue between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies that receive federal funding. Participants in the community outreach process provided feedback on what they viewed as the most pressing housing, special needs/public services, and community development needs in the City.

Specifically related to public and assisted housing providers, private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies, City staff has met with the County Homeless Task Group, a City Emergency Shelter Task Group, and the Continuum of Care (Homeless Alliance) members. Organizations represented in City priorities includes county and local government, faith-based organizations, concerned citizens, housing providers, service providers, including mental health, education, employment, and others.

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))
City staff met with public officials, City departments, the Housing Authority of Tulare County (HATC), residents, and agencies to develop strategies for how best to invest grant funding to address discuss priority community needs. Staff met with the Citizens Advisory Committee, which acts as a liaison between the public and the City Council concerning community needs. Also, City Staff met with the Disability Advocacy Committee, to be advised on the needs of disabled persons in the community. A focus group was held with the City’s Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), Self-Help Enterprises, which has, in the past and present, worked collaboratively with the City of Visalia to increase the City’s supply of affordable housing.

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 Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance (Alliance) is the regional continuum of care which facilitates services through a system of homeless housing and service providers, advocates, government representatives and consumers to conduct outreach and strategies to address the needs of homeless persons and persons at risk of homelessness.
97 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 8 | P a g e

City staff participates in regular monthly meetings of the Alliance to better understand the changing needs and challenges facing homeless populations; to coordinate strategies that ensure effective regional coordination in helping homeless individuals and families reach maximum self-sufficiency.

The City of Visalia supports the Alliance by providing grant funding for the yearly Point In Time Homeless Census and counts, the Project Homeless Connect events, as well as continued administration of the HUD Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).

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 Not applicable. The City does not receive ESG funding.

2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations, and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdiction’s consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities
Representatives of the following agencies, groups, and organizations contributed to the narratives and data include in the Consolidated Plan and Action Plan preparation are listed in Table 2 on the following page.

98 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 9 | P a g e

Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-homeless
Regional organization
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Public Housing Needs
Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Homelessness Strategy
Market Analysis
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Consultation provided information; Continued partnership/collaboration through CoC meetings. Survey feedback presented the ConPlan High priority needs, 2023 Action Plan through the listserv members who represent all the types of organizations listed above including service providers, and community stakeholders. The Continuum of Care, and Homeless Task Group meetings and feedback relate to the need for homeless housing. CDBG funding would assist KTHA to further meet the needs of the chronically homeless community. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Housing Authority of Tulare County Agency/Group/Organization Type PHA
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Public Housing Needs
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
HATC provided input through the survey, recommending that the city make more funding available for the acquisition and rehabilitation of more affordable housing. HATC was also consulted in preparation of the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. 99 City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 10 | P a g e

3 Agency/Group/Organization Self-Help Enterprises
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services - Housing
Services-Education
Regional organization
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Lead-based Paint Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan, which helped in prioritizing the City's housing and community needs. 4 Agency/Group/Organization Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children
Services-Elderly Persons
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS
Services-homeless
Services-Health
Health Agency
Child Welfare Agency
Regional organization
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
5 Agency/Group/Organization United Way of Tulare County Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Regional organization
100

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 11 | P a g e

What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
6 Agency/Group/Organization Family Services of Tulare County Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Children
Services-Elderly Persons
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS
Services-Victims of Domestic Violence
Services-homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Homelessness Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
101

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 12 | P a g e

7 Agency/Group/Organization Kings View Corporation
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Elderly Persons
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS
Services-Victims of Domestic Violence
Services-homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Homelessness Strategy
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
8 Agency/Group/Organization Citizens Advisory Committee Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government - Local What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. A community meeting was also conducted on April 5, 2023, to review the draft PY 2023 Annual Action Plan.

Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting 102

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 13 | P a g e

The City reached out to several different agencies, groups, and organizations and invited them to participate in the preparation of the 5-year Consolidated Plan goals. They were contacted via email and provided with a stakeholder flyer that included information on the community forum and public hearings. The City asked these groups to forward this information to their colleagues and mailing lists. They were also encouraged to complete the community needs survey and to share the survey link with community stakeholders. The City also published public notices in the Visalia Times Delta, the City website, and the City's social media outlets.

The types of additional agencies were businesses, educational services, groups and organizations, employment service providers, fair housing services, health service and domestic violence service providers, service providers for children and elderly persons, other advisory, veterans and concerned citizens, as well as faith-based organizations. The following additional providers were sent notice and information via-email encouraging feedback on preparing the Action Plan activities form:
• Businesses: Downtown Visalians, Hispanic/Visalia Chamber of Commerce, Tulare County Economic Development, & Retail Associates.

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? Continuum of Care Kings Tulare
Homeless Alliance
As the designated bi-county Continuum of Care, the Alliance is responsible for planning process for the bi - county region which includes the City of Visalia. The Alliance mission is to coordinate and leverage resources that empower community partners including the City of Visalia to address homelessness.

City of Visalia Fair
Housing Rental
Assessment
City of Visalia and
Fair Housing Council
of Central California
The Fair Housing Council Fair Housing Rental Assessment is based upon systemic paired testing of the rental housing market to form the basis of plans to counteract discriminatory practices in the rental housing market with the City.

City of Visalia
General Plan Housing
Element
City of Visalia
The Housing Element assesses the need for housing for all levels of income and establishes policies to meet those needs. The Strategic Plan goals support the implementation of the Housing Element by working to construct and rehabilitate new and existing affordable housing units.

Tulare County Multi-
Jurisdictional Local
Hazard Mi
County of Tulare Development, as related to the Consolidated Plan, that occurs shall be primarily in the areas where environmental hazards can be properly mitigated.

Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts

Narrative (optional)
None.
103

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 14 | P a g e

AP-12 Participation – 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

Outreach for the City of Visalia’s 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan objectives were conducted in several methods: community outreach and housing needs surveys, public meetings, stakeholder interviews, and public hearings. Significant outreach efforts were made to the public, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, housing services, and health and social service organizations (including organizations providing services to homeless persons and families, persons with HIV/AIDS, victims of domestic violence, senior citizens, and extremely low to low-income populations).

The PY 2023 Annual Action Plan goals were established based on highest priority needs identified during the 2020-2024 Community Needs Assessment. Based upon the input received by the community and council, high priorities were identified as homeless services, fair housing, emergency & ADA home repairs, mobile home repairs, code enforcement, ADA improvements, a low-barrier homeless shelter, affordable housing and tenant-based rental assistance.

The 2023 Action Plan 30-day public comment period seeking community input was held from March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023. The draft PY 2023 Action Plan was available for review on the City's website at www.visalia.city. The City took several steps to seek community input on the draft PY 2023 Action Plan, by publishing a English and Spanish public notice in the Visalia Times Delta on March 15th, March 17th, and March 31st, PY 2023, the City's website, the City's social media outlets, and the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv. The following community and city council meetings were held to review the draft Action Plan and obtain public comment. • City Council Public Hearing on April 3, 2023, at 7:00pm • Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting on April 5, 2023, at 5:30pm • City Council Public Hearing on April 17, 2023, at 7:00pm

104

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 15 | P a g e

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 Non-targeted/broad
community
English/Spanish public notice
published in the Visalia Times
Delta on 3/17/23 & 3/31/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
2 Internet
Outreach
Non-targeted/broad
community
English/Spanish public notice and
draft 2023 AAP were available on
the City's website from 3/17/23 -
4/3/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
www.visalia.city/depts
/finance/housing_n_cd
bg_services/public_not
ices.asp.
3 Internet
Outreach
Non-targeted/broad
community
City social media posts on City's
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
pages.

Comments
to be added. N/A
4 Listserv Notice Non-targeted/broad
community
Approximately 330 receipts were
notified on the Kings Tulare
Homeless Alliance listserv notice.

Comments
to be added. N/A
5 Public Hearing Non-targeted/broad
community
City council meeting to review
draft 2023 Action Plan and obtain
public comment was held on
4/3/23
Comments
to be added N/A
6 Public
Meeting
Non-targeted/broad
community
Citizens Advisory Committee
community meeting to review
draft and obtain public comment
was held on 4/5/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
8 Public Hearing Non-targeted/broad
community
Public hearing to approve the 2023
Action Plan and authorize
submission of the plan to HUD
held on 4/17/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach
105

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 16 | P a g e

Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2)
Introduction
The Program Year (PY) 2023, CDBG estimated budget consists of $1,200,000 in estimated entitlement funds, and $50,000 in estimated program income for a total of $1,250,000 CDBG funds. The PY 2023, HOME estimated budget consists of $545,000 in HOME funds, and $800,000 in estimated program income for a total of $1,345,000. The City currently does not have an Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) or Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) grant. The Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan average annual allocation multiplied by 1 year to equal total remainder of ConPlan. Each program year the Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan is subtracted by the current grant allocation.

Anticipated Resources
Program
Source
of Funds Uses of Funds
Expected Amount Available Year 4 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$ Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
CDBG Public
Federal
Admin,
Public Services,
Affordable
Housing, and
Public
Improvements

$1,200,000 $50,000 $0 $1,200,000 $1,200,000 The estimated PY 2023 CDBG resources include $1,200,000 in entitlement funds,
and $50,000 in program income, for a total
of $1,250,000 in CDBG funds.
106

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 17 | P a g e

Program
Source
of Funds Uses of Funds
Expected Amount Available Year 4 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$ Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
HOME Public
Federal
Admin,
Homebuyer
Assistance, and
Multifamily Rental
New Construction

$545,000 $800,000 $0 $1,345,500 $545,000

The estimated PY 2023 HOME resources
include $545,000 in entitlement funds, and
$800,000 in program income for a total of
$1,345,000 in HOME funds.

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 leverages both federal and local housing funds by supporting non-profit organizations that develop affordable housing. The City, or its partners, provides matching funds for housing related services to several programs, which includes the following:
• SHE-CHDO Scattered Single Family Acquisition/Rehabilitation/Resale. Scattered Site Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resale of Single- Family Property Program will be administered and operated through the City’s certified Non-Profit, designated Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), currently Self-Help Enterprises (SHE). • SHE-CHDO Scattered Multi-Family Site Acquisition/Rehabilitation/Rent. For example, the Lofts Project is the development of an 80-unit multi-family affordable housing complex that is budgeted above $25 million. HOME funds will be leverage with the various other funding sources, such as, No Place Like HOME Program (NPLH), Multifamily Housing Program (MHP), and the Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG). • Voucher Program – used as a match to receive Tulare Housing First grants to provide permeant supportive housing vouchers. • First-Time Homebuyers Program – leveraged with private first position loans to assist First-Time Homebuyers purchase a home.

Below is a list of potential financial resources considering a part of the City’s overall financial plan to address priority needs and specific 107

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 18 | P a g e

objectives identified in the Consolidated Plan.
• Housing Authority of Tulare County (HATC) a public housing authority with jurisdiction within the City and the County. • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program (LIHTC): The LIHTC program provides federal and state tax credits for private developers and investors who agree to set aside all or an established percentage of their rental units for low-income households for no less than 30 years.
• Multi-Family Housing Program: If California’s Housing and Community Development Department awards Multi-Family Housing Program loans to assist rental housing developments affordable to low-income households in the City, the City will assist the developers with identifying local funding.
• The City will also be receiving on an annual basis, Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) funding which will assist with matching requirements.
108

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 19 | P a g e

If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan The City of Visalia does not currently own any land considered viable for the needs and uses identified in the plan. However, there is no shortage or available land for these purposes, as discussed below.

Discussion
The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is part of a statewide mandate to address housing issues that are related to future growth in a region. State housing element law assigns the responsibility for preparing the RHNA for the Tulare County region to the Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG). TCAG, and other California councils of governments (COGs), undertake the RHNA process prior to each housing element cycle. The current RHNA is for the six-housing element cycle and covers a 9.75- year projection period from January 1, 2014, to September 30, 2023. The City of Visalia has conducted an analysis and concludes that Visalia has adequate sites to accommodate its RHNA allocation for Extremely Low, Very Low, and Low-Income categories.

The City Planning Department lists lands available for development in its sites inventory list. However, it is undetermined as to who will develop and when development will occur. A comparison of Regional Housing Need and Residential sites is listed in Table 1-41 from the Draft Housing Element. The City approved 2,835 units between 2014 and 2018, consisting of 2,486 single-family units and 400 multi- family units (see SP-05 attachment - Regional Housing Need and Sites Inventory). If constructed, there would be a surplus of units for extremely low income: 210 units, low income: 514 units, moderate income: 675 units, and above moderate income: 3,232 units. 109

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 20 | P a g e

Annual Goals and Objectives

AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives
Goals Summary Information
Sort
Order Goal Name
Start
Year
End
Year Category
Geographic
Area
Needs
Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
1 Increase
affordable
housing
2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Citywide Affordable
Housing
HOME:
$1,265,500
Rental units constructed: 22 Household
Housing Unit;

2 Create
suitable living
environment
2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Citywide/
LMI Tracts
Affordable
Housing
Neighborhood
Preservation
CDBG:
$250,000

Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 7
Household Housing Unit;
Housing Code Enforcement/Foreclosed
Property Care: 200 Household Housing Unit
3 Address
community/
special needs
services
2020 2025 Homeless
Non-
Homeless
Special Needs
Citywide Shelter and
counseling for
the homeless
Public Services
CDBG: $57,500 Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 50 Households
Assisted
4 Address
homeless
needs
2020 2025 Homeless Citywide Shelter and
counseling for
the homeless
Public Services
CDBG: $70,000 Public service activities other than
Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit:
400 Persons Assisted; Public service
activities for Low/Moderate Income
Housing Benefit: 13 Households Assisted

5 Enhance
community
development
2020 2025 Non-Housing
Community
Development
LMI Tracts Improve
Community and
Public Facilities
CDBG:
$622,500
Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities
other than Low/Moderate Income Housing
Benefit: 50 Persons Assisted

110

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 21 | P a g e

Sort
Order Goal Name
Start
Year
End
Year Category
Geographic
Area
Needs
Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
6 Program and
planning
administration
2020 2025 Program
administration
funds
Citywide Community
Development
CDBG:
$250,000
HOME:
$79,500
Other: 1 Other
Table 6 – Goals Summary

Goal Descriptions
1 Goal Name Increase affordable housing
Goal Description Increase the amount of affordable housing stock in the City of Visalia with the construction of 80 units, of which 11 new LMI multi-family rental units will be HOME funded on a property located at 300 E. Oak Avenue. To provide HOME-CHDO mulit- family complex funding. HOME-CHDO project to be determined, at least 11 HOME assisted units.
2 Goal Name Create suitable living environment
Goal Description Code enforcement inspection services for an estimated 200 units within deteriorated or deteriorating low-moderate income eligible areas to arrest the decline of the area. An Owner-Occupied Senior Mobile Home Program 3 Goal Name Address community/special needs services
Goal Description Provide vital public services which include homeless case management, homeless outreach services, homeless prevention mortgage/rental and utilities assistance, and fair housing.
4 Goal Name Address homeless needs
Goal Description CDBG funds will be provided for annual Point-In-Time counts, project homeless connect and voucher match case management
111

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 22 | P a g e

5 Goal Name Enhance community development
Goal Description Improve Visalia ADA infrastructure. The location of such facilities will be determined however, improvements will be made in designated LMI tracts in the City. 6 Goal Name Program and planning administration
Goal Description Fund planning and administration activities by City staff to administer the CDBG and HOME Program funds.

112

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 23 | P a g e

Projects
AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d)
Introduction
Program Year 2023 CDBG and HOME Projects were established based on the high priority needs identified in the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan. The Consolidated Plan goals below address the high priority needs and serve as the foundation for strategic actions the City will undertake. These goals are based on the ConPlan’s Needs Assessment and Housing Market Analysis sections as well as community outreach conducted:
• Increase affordable housing
• Create suitable living environment
• Address community/special need services
• Address homeless needs
• Enhance community development
• Program planning & administration
The City's PY 2023 estimated CDBG budget includes $1,200,000 in CDBG grant funds; and $50,000 in program income. The City's PY 2023 estimated HOME budget includes $545,000 in HOME funds; and $800,000 in program income. Any increase or decrease of PY 2023 CDBG annual allocation and/or program income will be directed toward CDBG ADA improvement projects. Any increase or decrease of PY 2023 HOME annual allocation and/or program income will be directed toward HOME-CHDO Project.

Projects
# Project Name
1 2023 HOME Administration
2 2023 The Lofts Project
3 2023 HOME CHDO Project
4 2023 CDBG Administration
5 2023 Address Homeless Needs - Public Services
6 2023 Address Community/Special Needs Services
7 2023 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program
8 2023 Code Enforcement
9 2023 ADA Compliance Projects
Table 7 - Project Information

Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved 113

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 24 | P a g e

needs
The projects will address the priority needs described in the Consolidated Plan by providing direct homeless services, homeless prevention services, fair housing services, code enforcement inspections to maintain neighborhood stabilization, housing rehabilitation program, affordable housing options for the LMI population, and ADA compliance projects. An obstacle in addressing underserved needs include needs outweighing funding resources. Nevertheless, the City worked resourcefully in combing multiple funding sources to maximize the allocation of resources to address underserved community needs.

114

City of Visalia DRAFT 2021-2023 Annual Action Plan 25 | P a g e

AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information
1 Project Name 2023 HOME Administration
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Program and planning administration
Needs Addressed Community Development
Funding HOME: $79,500
Description 2023 HOME Administration and Planning.

Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
N/A
Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities 2023 HOME Administration and Planning. 2 Project Name 2023 The Lofts Project
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Increase affordable housing
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $634,375
Description Construction of an 80-unit mulit-family rental complex, of which 11-units will be HOME funded.

Target Date 6/30/2025
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
11 LMI households are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description 300 E. Oak Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291 Planned Activities The City will provide funding toward Self-Enterprises, Inc. (SHE), to build 11 of the 80 new LMI multi-family rental units.
3 Project Name 2023 HOME CHDO Project
Target Area Citywide
115

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 26 | P a g e

Goals Supported Increase affordable housing
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $631,125
Description First Time Homebuyer Program
Target Date 6/30/2025
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
11 LMI households are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description Citywide - TBD
Planned Activities HOME CHDO Mulit-family Project TBD
4 Project Name 2023 CDBG Administration
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Program and planning administration
Needs Addressed Community Development
Funding CDBG: $250,000
Description 2023 CDBG Administration and Planning
Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
N/A
Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities 2023 CDBG Administration and Planning 5 Project Name 2023 Address Homeless Needs - Public Services Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Address homeless needs
Needs Addressed Public Services
Funding CDBG: $70,000
Description Continuum of Care Point in Time survey and LINC services.

Permanent Supportive Housing Voucher match.
116

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 27 | P a g e

Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
413 low-income homeless individuals.

Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities Continuum of Care Point in Time survey and LINC services.

Permanent Supportive Housing Voucher match.
6 Project Name 2023 Address Community/Special Needs Services Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Address community/special needs services Needs Addressed Public Services
Funding CDBG: $57,500
Description Homeless outreach - case management, supportive services, security deposits, rental application fees, legal document assistance; homeless prevention - rental/mortgage assistance and utilities assistance, and fair housing education.

Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
50 low-moderate households
Location Description City wide
Planned Activities Homeless services, homeless prevention, and fair housing. 7 Project Name 2023 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Create suitable living environment
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Preservation
Funding CDBG: $75,000
Description Senior Mobile Home Repair Program to owner occupied low- income seniors and/or disabled persons.

Target Date 6/30/2024
117

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 28 | P a g e

Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
7 low-income seniors and/or disabled persons.

Location Description Citywide. Sites are to be determined.

Planned Activities Senior Mobile Home Repair Program to owner occupied low- income seniors and/or disabled persons.
8 Project Name 2023 Code Enforcement
Target Area LMI Tracts
Goals Supported Create suitable living environment
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Preservation
Funding CDBG: $175,000
Description 2023 Code Enforcement services in deteriorating or deteriorated low-moderate-income areas to arrest the decline of the area.

Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
200 LMI households are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description LMI target areas.

Planned Activities 2023 Code Enforcement services in deteriorating or deteriorated low-moderate-income areas to arrest the decline of the area. 9 Project Name 2023 ADA Compliance Projects
Target Area LMI Tracts
Goals Supported Enhance community development
Needs Addressed Improve Community and Public Facilities Funding CDBG: $622,500
Description 2023 ADA compliance projects and public infrastructure improvements.

Target Date 6/30/2024
118

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 29 | P a g e

Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
50 LMI persons are expected to benefit from the proposed activities.

Location Description LMI Target Areas.

Planned Activities 2023 ADA compliance projects and public infrastructure improvements.
119

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 30 | P a g e

AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed Many of the CDBG activities funded in 2023 are offered citywide to low- and moderate-income households. However, for certain CDBG programs, such public infrastructure improvements, and code enforcement are directed to neighborhoods that qualify for CDBG funds on an "area benefit" basis. An area benefit activity is one that is available to benefit all the residents of an area which is:
• Primarily residential and
• Where 51% of the population is low- and moderate-income Except for the HOME-funded multi-family rental housing units to be built (The Lofts) which is located at 300 E Oak Avenue all other programs are to be administered citywide, or within the CDBG Target area.

Geographic Distribution
Target Area Percentage of Funds
Citywide 85
LMI Tracts 15
Table 8 - Geographic Distribution

Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically Entitlement funds will be distributed citywide as eligible. However, CDBG funds will be utilized in CDBG Target areas for Code Enforcement, and ADA Improvements. A presumed Benefit project, such as an ADA improvement project or low-and-moderate-income residential areas in need of access, would be applicable. CDBG funding directed toward public services is a citywide public service benefit. Public Facilities are based upon CDBG requirements, such as the area benefit noted above, limited clientele, or income qualifications. Affordable housing will be pursued citywide, which encompasses CDBG Target Areas. Other programs may benefit within the CDBG Target areas as well, however, are allowed citywide, based upon income eligibility.

Discussion

The Low-and Moderate-Income Concentration Census Tract Map that is being utilized for the 2023 Action Plan and is based on the Low-and Moderate-Income Summary Data (LMISD) provided on HUD Exchange website.

120

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 31 | P a g e

Affordable Housing
AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g)
Introduction
The AAP must specify goals for the number of homeless, non-homeless, and special needs households to be provided affordable housing within the program year. The AAP must also indicate the number of affordable housing units that will be provided by program type, including rental assistance, production of new units, rehabilitation of existing units, or acquisition of existing units. For this section, the term “affordable housing” is defined in the HOME regulations at 24 CFR 92.252 for rental housing and 24 CFR

92.254 for homeownership.

Findings in the data, included within the Strategic Plan, show that there is not an adequate amount of local housing affordable to LMI households, especially for extremely low- and very low-income households. According to the HUD data reports there is sufficient housing units for the various income categories. After analysis, the only income category that truly does have enough housing is the 50-80% AMI. The following data (CHAS 2014-2018) supports this housing deficit/surplus:
• 0-30% AMI: There are 4,170 households living in this income category, yet there are only 2,610 rental units available that are affordable to these households in the City. • 30-50% AMI: There are 4,530 households living in this income category yet there are only 2,935 units available.
• 50-80% AMI: There are 5,880 households in this income category and there are 1,650 units.

Tables 33 and 36 included within the Strategic Plan, MA-15 section show the recent changes to factors effecting affordability including income, rent and value. Median income has increased 2.5% since 2015 and when compared to the growth in median contract rent (+7.2%), rental housing prices are outpacing income growth. This may continue to strain affordability in the rental housing market, and lead to higher rates of housing cost burden, especially for LMI households. However, when looking at the owner market, ownership may be more attainable now than it was previously in 2017. This is evidenced by the fact that median income growth has increased, while median home values have declined over 10%.

One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless 0
Non-Homeless 31
Special-Needs 0
Total 31
Table 9 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement

121

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 32 | P a g e

One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Rental Assistance 0
The Production of New Units 11
Rehab of Existing Units 7
Acquisition of Existing Units 0
Total 18
Table 10 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type

Discussion
Staff works with its non-profit partner SHE to include additional types of acquisition, such as vacant, infill and reconstruction. As funding, through PI becomes available, it would be directed toward SHE CHDO acquisition rehabilitation projects, including the Lofts Project. The 2023 Action Plan includes the development of 11 HOME-assisted affordable rental units with the Lofts Project, and 7 mobile home repairs with the Senior Mobile Home Repair Program.

122

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 33 | P a g e

AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h)
Introduction
HATC works closely with the City, Continuum of Care “Alliance” and the recently formed Homeless Resource Task Group. Actions planned by the PHA this year are referenced below. HATC owns/manages 179 Public housing units in Visalia and manages another 764 affordable housing units through the City of Visalia. HATC has a master lease with Family Services of Tulare County (FSTC) to house families that participate in the rapid rehousing and domestic violence programs that FSTC administers within the City of Visalia. Through a partnership with Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency (TCHHSA) Mental Health, HATC manages Clark Court, Transitional Living Center, and East Tulare Cottages which house and provide supportive services for individuals that participate in TCHHSA Mental Health programs.

Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing HATC will continue to own and manages 179 public housing units in the City. HATC also owns and manages an additional 764 affordable housing units. There is currently no plan to purchase additional public-housing units, nor do they plan on removing any units from their inventory. Their current projection is for an investment of $375,500 in Capital Fund improvements during the FY 2023. There is no project based rental assistance units within the City. HATC expenditures cover maintenance and rehabilitation in public-housing units within the City. HATC's Capital Fund expenditures will cover a large range of projects, including roofing replacement, landscaping improvements, carpet replacement along with air conditioning and heating unit improvements. HATC acquired vacant land at 830 E. Roosevelt Avenue in Visalia to develop a mulit-family development, with a total of four (4) units for rental to qualified low-income households. (Data source: HATC November 2021).

Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership
HATC created a Resident Council composed of five residents from HUD funded programs (Multifamily Housing, LIHTC, HOME, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, and public housing). The Resident Council works with HATC staff on evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of existing rental assistance programs. This structure was put into place to give public housing residents the opportunity to provide input on necessary program modifications, through the Council members. HATC is proactive in the inclusion of public-housing residents in the policy making process. As required, two public housing tenants sit on the HATC Commission board. Between the Resident Council and tenant representation on the Board an equitable and transparent policy making process has been put into place.

A vital driving factor that continues to influence HATC programs is the promotion and goal of tenant self-sufficiency. HATC views homeownership as a long-term goal for most program participants. HATC staff works with tenants to effectively provide them with the necessary resources to achieve homeownership. HATC’s Annual Re-Examination Notice provides public-housing participants with an 123

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 34 | P a g e

extensive referral list that aids with homeownership. Their list includes programs managed by: CSET, City of Visalia, Habitat for Humanity, CalHFA, and Self-Help Enterprises. HATC’s program coordinator works with any interested public housing tenant to effectively inform them of all the different programs and services available to them. Effective collaboration between their agency and other public and nonprofit agencies is imperative to help promote homeownership among all HATC’s tenants. Lastly, HATC created “RentTrack Payment, an online payment system which will allow public housing residents to utilize their rental payments made on time to raise or build individual credit scores. RentTrack has increased credit scores an average of 29 points in just two months and 132 points over a 2-year period.

If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance
HATC is not designated as troubled.

Discussion
See discussion above.
124

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 35 | P a g e

AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) Introduction
This section describes the City’s one-year goals and the specific action steps it will undertake in the program year to carry out the homeless strategy outlined in the ConPlan’s SP-60 Homelessness Strategy.

This section will also describe the jurisdiction’s goals and specify the activities it will undertake to serve the housing and supportive service needs of non-homeless populations who require supportive housing.

Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including
The City has allocated over $2 million of CDBG funds for the development of a Low-Barrier Navigation Center for people experiencing homelessness. The City also allocating Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) and Low-Mod Successor Agency Housing (SAH) funds toward the development and operation of the Project. The project is expected to begin construction in Program Year 2023. The Visalia Navigation Center anticipates having a 100-bed public facility to house individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The Visalia Navigation Center will follow “Housing First” practices and work closely with the local Continuum of Care for the Visalia region to house individuals and families quickly into rapid rehousing, transitional housing, and permanent housing.

Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs
The City will continue targeted outreach efforts towards unsheltered homeless persons through collaborative efforts with the Alliance Housing Navigators, Family Services, Kings View PATH Team, and Tulare County Mental Health Crisis Team. These organizations canvas the City to conduct outreach to people experiencing homelessness and connect them to services. Client information is included in the local Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) so the outreach teams can remain apprised of client status on the housing priority list and other community referrals.

The City will also continue to support the Alliance’s outreach efforts to persons experiencing homelessness through the PIT survey completed in January. The PIT survey provides a snapshot of the adults, children in households and unaccompanied youth living in the City of Visalia who meet HUD’s definition of homelessness. Information gathered through the PIT is used to understand the causes and trends over time of homelessness, as well as to determine the unmet shelter and service needs of the homeless.

Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City is in the planning phase of developing a low-barrier Navigation Center within the City of Visalia.

A low-barrier Navigation Center will assist in proving solution to create safe and successful permanent 125

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 36 | P a g e

exits from homelessness using a Housing First Approach. A Housing First Approach will connect homeless individuals to permanent housing without preconditions and barriers to entry, such as sobriety, treatment, or service participation requirements. Project implementation expected to begin in Program Year 2023.

The Sequoia Village Project is a 50-unit motel that was recently acquired through California Department of Housing and Community Development Project Homekey funds to provide immediate shelter to homeless individuals in need of shelter, who are experiencing effects of COVID-19. The City is partnering with the County to rehabilitate the 50-unit motel to provide permanent supportive/affordable housing units for chronically homeless individuals. Tulare County Mental Health services will provide onsite wrap around services to ensure tenants stability.

Eden House is a 22-bed transitional/bridge facility recently opened in 2020, located at 1627 S. Garden St., Visalia, which will provide beds for residents for a period of 60-90 days (or up to a maximum period of 6 months with an approved extension), who are awaiting permanent supportive housing (PSH) or Rapid Re-Housing (RRH) placements through various funding programs. Eden's House provides extensive on-site wrap around services including mental health assistance and case management.

The Visalia Homeless Center managed by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Rev. Suzy Ward oversees and operates a low barrier warming center within the City of Visalia each winter. The warming center is a low-barrier emergency shelter that provides 90 - 100 homeless individuals’ overnight shelter. The warming center averages 75 visitors a night from December 1st through March 31st. The City has entered into a 4-year contract agreement with Visalia Homeless Center to operate a warming Center in the City of Visalia with use of Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) funds.

Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again
Visalia supports and collaborates with local service providers, through the Alliance, to assist homeless individuals and families. Funding priorities include supporting existing high performing housing first rapid rehousing and permanent supporting housing projects.

Funding allocations include:
• Housing Successor which provides case management/supportive services and street outreach. • Family Services matching funds for case management (public services) to support the Tulare Housing First Shelter Plus Care project. This project provides case management services to 14 126

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 37 | P a g e

chronically homeless individuals who receive a permanent supportive housing. • Kings View Behavioral Health provides public services, including meals for Visalia’s homeless. • ECO program, which is a partnership that includes the Tulare County Workforce Investment Board, Caltrans, and ABLE Industries.
• Property acquisition and rehab housing projects funded through HOME funds and other city- funding pools.
• CoC and City-funded programs/projects that benefit the homeless • Special needs project and programs that serve these vulnerable subpopulations include: CSET Permanent Supportive Housing and Rapid Rehousing, Family Services Permanent Supportive Housing and Transitional Housing, Turning Point and Tulare County HHSA provide PSH projects for chronically homeless individuals and families and/or families with children. The Veterans’ Administration, in conjunction with the Housing Authority of Tulare County, operates the VASH project and Westcare operates the SSVF project that serves eligible veterans and their families.

Uplift Families operates a Transitional Housing project for transitioning age youth.

Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs.

The Alliance employs a Diversion Specialist that is responsible for developing and strengthening referral sources for people at-risk of becoming homeless. Additionally, the Diversion Specialist works with clients that present at any of the Coordinated Entry points to assist in diverting clients from homelessness.

Another important component of prevention/diversion is assisting households with income supports and connections to mainstream benefits. The SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) model is designed to increase access to SSI/SSDI for eligible homeless adults who are and have a mental illness and/or a co-occurring substance use disorder. Staff from all CoC-funded agencies is required to assist clients in obtaining these mainstream benefits. Participation by these agencies provides an effective method of assisting households who may otherwise pursue homelessness assistance.

Discussion
See discussion above. The City is not a recipient of HOPWA funding. 127

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 38 | P a g e

AP-75 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.220(j)
Introduction:

The City of Visalia updated the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) in 2020. The AI describes the impediments or barriers to affordable housing. The primary barriers to affordable housing include the following:
• Lending practices
• Access to Opportunity
• Housing Discrimination
• Development of Affordable Housing
• Land use policies and practices
Actions it 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
The City has taken actions in recent years to support residential development through changes in zoning, further streamlining permitting processes, and reducing impact fees. Visalia has made changes to residential zone districts following the City’s Housing Element update. The City increased the highest allowed multi-family density permitted by right to 15 to 35 units per acre, provided that the development does not exceed 80 units. Also, the City implemented an Affordable Housing Infill Incentive Program in 2017, which reduces Transportation Impact Fees for qualifying projects that meet the infill criteria outlined in the City’s Development Fee Schedule. In the downtown area, waivers for parking requirements have been given based on past use of the building spaces. There are multiple policies and programs in the 2020 Housing Element Update that address promoting incentives for affordable housing that include priority permit processing and modified zoning provisions. New programs in the Housing Element update, propose removing conditional use requirements for housing in certain commercial zone designations. These Housing Element Programs are organized into nine Goals categories, as follows:

1. New Construction - To provide a broad range of housing types and densities to meet the needs of all Visalia residents.

2. Mixed Use, Infill, and Downtown Development - To promote mixed use, infill, and Downtown development in Visalia.

3. Encourage Affordable Housing - To encourage construction and maintenance of affordable housing in Visalia.

4. Foreclosures - To prevent foreclosures, protect affected families, and stabilize neighborhoods impacted by foreclosures.
128

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 39 | P a g e

5. Special Needs/Homeless- To provide a range of housing types and services to meet the needs of households with special needs within the city.

6. Housing Rehabilitation Program - To create and maintain healthy neighborhoods by improving the condition of the existing housing stock and providing for a variety of housing types, sizes, price ranges, and densities compatible with the existing character and integrity of residential neighborhoods.

7. Equal Opportunity Housing and Discrimination Prevention - To provide decent housing and a quality of living environment for all Visalia residents regardless of age, religion, race, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, disability, economic level, and other arbitrary factors.

8. Energy Conservation - To encourage energy efficiency in all new and existing housing.

9. Implementation Monitoring - To ensure that Housing Element programs are implemented on a timely basis and progress of each program is monitored and evaluated annually.

In addition to exploring new policy and regulatory changes, the City will continue its efforts to carry out the following to remove barriers to affordable housing:
• Work with non-profit developers and other public agencies that increase Visalia’s supply of affordable housing
• Work with HATC to properly inform collaborating agencies at the local, state, and federal levels of the need for affordable housing in the City
• Facilitate the construction of affordable rental housing for very low and low-income households by providing regulatory (e.g., density bonus, expedited permit processing, deferred fees, or relaxed parking requirements) and financial incentives
• Support programs that keep people housed, such as tenant-based rental assistance and rapid rehousing
• Streamline permitting process for affordable housing
• Further incentives to developers for the development of affordable housing • Incorporate educational components regarding the importance of affordable housing into community outreach
• Encourage the development of smaller, more affordable units Discussion:

See above discussion.
129

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 40 | P a g e

AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k)
Introduction:

The following section provides HUD with other activities, projects, and actions the City is undertaking to reduce homelessness and housing affordability. Examples include the completion of the AI and identifying the barriers and impediments to affordable housing, supporting homeless programs, public and private solutions for affordable, annual administration of CDBG and HOME funds and attendance of city meetings and CoC meetings.

Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs City actions planned to address obstacles are referenced within the AI and listed herein. AI, Chapter VIII:

Actions includes the plan’s goals and recommended actions to reduce the barriers to affordable housing noted in AP-75.

Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing The City will continue to work closely with non-profit housing and service providers to collaborate on improving the awareness and expansion of available resources to address the needs of the homeless population. Staff has addressed the affordable housing programs for this program year throughout this report. Please refer to sections AP-20, AP 35, AP-38, and AP-55.

In addition to exploring new policy and regulatory changes, the City will continue its efforts to carry out the following to remove barriers to affordable housing:
• Work with non-profit developers and other public agencies that increase Visalia’s supply of affordable housing
• Work with the Housing Authority of Tulare County to properly inform collaborating agencies at the local, state, and federal levels of the need for affordable housing in the City • Facilitate the construction of affordable rental housing for very low and low-income households by providing regulatory (e.g., density bonus, expedited permit processing, deferred fees, or relaxed parking requirements) and financial incentives
• Support programs that keep people housed, such as tenant-based rental assistance and rapid rehousing
• Streamline permitting process for affordable housing
• Further incentives to developers for the development of affordable housing • Incorporate educational components regarding the importance of affordable housing into 130

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 41 | P a g e

community outreach
• Encourage the development of smaller, more affordable units Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards
Approximately 40% of the City’s housing stock was built prior to 1979 therefore work performed on these buildings must be carefully monitored for the presence of lead-based paint in compliance with HUD regulation. Currently the City’ housing rehabilitation or home improvement programs and down payment assistance programs require lead-based paint inspections and/or abatement. Applicants of these programs are provided brochures informing of the health risks of lead-based paint as part of the application process. In addition, City building inspectors and Code Enforcement staff are alerted to signs of this hazard as they perform their substandard housing inspections. The City requires its Subrecipients, Developer partners and rehabilitation contractors of federally funded programs to utilize safe practices and obtain certification through a HUD certified lead testing agency.

Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families The City works with its non-profit partners to reduce the number of poverty-level families. The City will also continue to provide its non-profit partners with funding to acquire, rehabilitate, and sell and rent homes or multi-family units to income-qualifying households at or below 80% AMI.

Additionally, the City has made a commitment to improve the communication and service delivery capabilities of agencies and organizations that provide programs to assist the homeless. Specifically, Staff participates in the monthly Continuum of Care (Alliance) meeting, and various homeless task groups to identify funding and opportunities to provide Visalia’s homeless population with housing and service opportunities.

The City will also continue to partner with organizations to provide services and address the full range of needs of LMI families. Although there are coordinated programs and services to reduce poverty, it is recognized that many unmet needs will remain. The City will continue to work with its partners to identify and work toward meeting those needs by strategically focusing its resources and efforts.

Actions planned to develop institutional structure
The City is a charter city and is managed under a Council-manager form of government. City Council provides policy direction to the City Manager who is responsible for administering City operations. City Council members are the leaders and policymakers elected to represent the community and concentrate on policy that addresses the citizens’ needs and wishes. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is served. The legislative body is the City Council and City Councilmembers are the community’s decision makers. Visalia voters elect a 5-member Council to serve as the City's legislative and governing body. The members represent the City 131

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 42 | P a g e

and their respective Districts, serve four-year terms and they select one member to serve as mayor and one to serve as vice- mayor. A general municipal election is held every two years in November, alternating between two and three positions each cycle.

The Finance Department, Housing Division oversees and administers the day-to-day activities of the CDBG, NSP1, HOME, PLHA, RDA Successor Agency Housing (SAH) and other state and federal funded programs. Staff works together with various City departments to develop programs and activities that improve low-and moderate-income neighborhoods throughout the City. The administration of program activities includes housing, public services, public facility, park and infrastructure improvements, and economic development activities.

Interdepartmental communication and collaboration are two strengths of the delivery system. City staff from various departments works with local organizations and agencies that assist low-income households and individuals. High priority needs were identified during the Consolidated Plan’s community engagement and public review periods.

During the Consolidated Plan public review period, these priorities were established. Additionally, input is received by the community, various committees, and City Council during the feedback period in developing the annual plan. The AAP is designed to address the needs and priorities identified within the ConPlan and direct limited funding available toward the highest needs.

Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies
The City continues to participate in monthly Continuum of Care and quarterly Tulare County Homeless Task Force community meetings to enhance coordination between housing providers, government agencies, mental health, and other key stakeholders in the City. The purpose of these ongoing meetings is to establish a network of agencies to enhance the delivery of services to the homeless, disabled individuals and families, and others seeking services.

City staff meets with public officials, City departments, HATC, residents, and agencies to develop strategies for how best to invest grant funding to address discuss priority community needs. Staff met with the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), which acts as a liaison between the public, and the City Council concerning community needs. The Disability Advocacy Committee (DAC) has now become a part of the CAC. Therefore, City Staff has also met with the members of the DAC through meetings held with the CAC, to be advised on the needs of disabled persons in the community.

Discussion:

See above discussions.
132

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 43 | P a g e

Program Specific Requirements
AP-90 Program Specific Requirements – 91.220(l)(1,2,4)
Introduction:

In the event final CDBG and HOME program entitlement and program income is higher or lower than expected herein, the City of Visalia may add, subtract, or transfer amounts among identified projects, as noted without publishing a substantial amendment, if the amount is below 75 % change, as per the approved Citizens Participation Plan. Any difference in CDBG funding will be reflected in the public infrastructure/ADA project line item and, if needed, public services to maintain compliance with the 15% cap and Administration; any difference in HOME funding will be reflected in SHE CHDO Acq/Rehab/construct or reconstruct SF or MF projects, and if needed Administration. The three-year period (2023, 2024 & 2025) will be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income.

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

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% 133

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 44 | P a g e

HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME)
Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(2)

1. A description of other forms of investment being used beyond those identified in Section 92.205 is as follows:

No other form of investment shall be used beyond those identified in Section 92.205. 2. As it relates to the HOME funded owner-occupant Programs, all beneficiaries are owner occupants. As it relates to HOME funded rental programs, beneficiaries are tenants.

2. A description of the guidelines that will be used for resale or recapture of HOME funds when used for homebuyer activities as required in 92.254, is as follows:

First Time Homebuyer (FTHB), funds shall be provided as a Direct HOME subsidy- gap financing, as a second mortgage to households at or below 80% of the area median income. The property will maintain an affordability covenant as referenced under 24 CFR 92.254 (a) (4). The covenant shall remain for five (5) years when less than $15,000 is provided in gap financing Direct Subsidy to the homebuyer and shall be for a ten (10) year period when more than $15,000 up to $40,000 is provided in gap financing Direct Subsidy to the homebuyer. The “Owners Participation Agreement” (Covenant) shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. The Provision for the FTHB Program shall be “Recapture Provision” as per 24 CFR 92.254 (a) (5) (ii) (A) (1). The City may recapture the entire amount of the direct HOME assistance from the homeowner. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold. HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct HOME assistance, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds. This applies regardless of the nature of the sale (voluntary sales including short sales, and involuntary sales including foreclosures).

The SHE-CHDO Program utilizes the “Recapture Provision”. HOME funds are invested in the acquisition, rehabilitation, and/or new construction/reconstruction and Direct Subsidy shall be up to 10% of the total HOME investment (i.e., $280,000 acq. /Rehab cost X 10% = $28,000 Direct Subsidy to homebuyer), which shall be provided as a Second Mortgage to the qualifying new homebuyer. If the property is sold below fair market value, the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price is part of the HOME subsidy and provided directly to the homebuyer as a direct subsidy. In addition, any additional subsidy provided to the homebuyer to enable them to purchase the property, which includes down payment assistance, closing costs, interest subsidies, or other HOME assistance including any assistance that reduced the purchase price from fair market value to an affordable price, shall be recaptured.

A 30- year covenant shall be recorded to maintain affordability. The SHE-CHDO Program covenant shall use the “Recapture Provision”, as referenced under 24, CFR 92.254 (a) (5) (ii) (A) (1) and shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. In the case of the homebuyer selling the home during 134

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 45 | P a g e

the affordability period, the City may recapture the entire amount of the direct HOME Subsidy and the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price, if the purchase price is below the fair market value, and any additional assistance as referenced above. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold.

HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct HOME assistance, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds. This applies regardless of the nature of the sale (voluntary sales including short sales, and involuntary sales including foreclosures).

Note: Staff works with the City Attorney in updating legal documents to comply with the funding source and type of program(s) administered.

The FTHB, SHE-CHDO Program loan documents were reviewed in 2017 by HUD. If HUD requests a copy for review, City Staff will again provide documents if required prior to implementing the program.

3. A description of the guidelines for resale or recapture that ensures the affordability of units acquired with HOME funds. See 24 CFR 92.254(a)(4) are as follows:

See Recapture provisions above.

4. Plans for using HOME funds to refinance existing debt secured by multifamily housing that is rehabilitated with HOME funds along with a description of the refinancing guidelines required that will be used under 24 CFR 92.206(b), are as follows:

This does not apply to Visalia. Please see discussion above.

135

City of Visalia Draft PY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan 46 | P a g e

Appendix “A” – Summary Detail

Draft PY 2023-2024 Annual Action Plan Summary Detail

Table A-1: Draft PY 2023-2024 Annual Action Plan
Resources: CDBG HOME
2023 Annual Allocation $ 1,200,000 $ 545,000 2023 Program Income 50,000 800,000 Total 2023 CDBG and HOME Resources $ 1,250,000 $ 1,345,000 Expenditures:

Administration and Planning:

Administration $ 250,000 $ 79,500 Total Administration $ 250,000 $ 79,500

Public Services:

Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance $ 20,000 $ - Family Services Voucher Program 50,000 - Kings View PATH Program 50,000 - Fair Housing Education 7,500 - Total Public Services $ 127,500 $ -

Affordable Housing:

Senior Mobile Home Repair Program $ 75,000 $ - Code Enforcement 175,000 - HOME-CHDO Multi-Family Project 631,125
The Lofts Project - 634,375 Total Affordable Housing $ 250,000 $ 1,265,500

Public Facility Improvements:

ADA Compliance Projects – Tree Wells $ 622,500 $ - Total Public Facility Improvements $ 622,500 $ -

Total 2023 CDBG and HOME Expenditures $ 1,250,000 $ 1,345,000

136

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 1 | P a g e

137

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 2 | P a g e

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 3 AP-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b) ........................................................................ 3 PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies – 91.200(b) ...................................................................................... 7 AP-10 Consultation – 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l) ................................................................................... 8 AP-12 Participation – 91.105, 91.200(c) ................................................................................................. 15 Expected Resources .................................................................................................................................... 18 AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2) ........................................................................................... 18 Annual Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 22 Projects ................................................................................................................................................... 25 AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d) ..................................................................................................................... 25 AP-38 Project Summary .......................................................................................................................... 27 AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f) ............................................................................................. 33 Affordable Housing ..................................................................................................................................... 34 AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g) ................................................................................................... 34 AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h) ........................................................................................................... 36 AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) ............................................................ 38 AP-75 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.220(j) .................................................................................. 41 AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k) ............................................................................................................ 43 Program Specific Requirements .................................................................................................................. 46 Appendix “A” – Summary Detail ................................................................................................................. 49

138

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 3 | P a g e

Purpose of the Amendment
The purpose for the Program Year (PY) 2022 CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment to appropriate $150,000 of CDBG program income received and reappropriate $7,500 of unspent CDBG fair housing funds for a total $157,500 to be direct to CDBG ADA compliance projects. The purpose for the PY HOME Annual Action Plan Amendment is to reappropriate $120,000 of unspent HOME Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) funds to a HOME first time homebuyer assistance program. PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment changes are in blue.

Executive Summary
AP-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b)

1. Introduction
The City of Visalia (City) is an entitlement jurisdiction for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and a participating jurisdiction for HOME Investment Partnerships Act Program (HOME). As a required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the City develops a Consolidated Plan (ConPlan) every five years to guide the use of federal CDBG and HOME funding. The 5-Year ConPlan is the guiding document for allocating these resources which support projects and programs that benefit low- and moderate-income people by increasing housing and economic opportunities, strengthening low-income neighborhoods, and addressing public service and infrastructure needs. The Annual Action Plan (AAP) is also required by HUD each year of the five-year cycle and will summarize the programs and projects that will be funded by the annual grants to achieve the goals and objectives of the ConPlan. Annual accomplishments are reported on progress toward ConPlan goals in the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER).

2. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Our strategy for community improvement using CDBG and HOME funds will focus on five broad goals.

These goals are:
• Improve housing opportunities for low-income households through new construction, mortgage and rental assistance, senior housing, housing for the disabled, and rehabilitation of homes/mobile home.
• Provide for a suitable living environment for low-income individuals and/or areas through Tenant-based subsidies and property maintenance (Code Enforcement):
• Address community/special needs through shelters, counseling, youth services, and domestic violence services.
• Address the needs of persons who are homeless with transitional housing, permanent housing, voucher programs, and tenant-based rental assistance.
• Improve public infrastructure and facilities in the community. 139

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 4 | P a g e

• Provide optimal program administration and oversight of the CDBG and HOME programs to continue planning efforts that address the needs of extremely low, very low, and low-income households and neighborhoods.

Details of our plan to meet these goals can be found in the strategies the City has identified below with the following labels:
• Increase affordable housing for LMI households in the City of Visalia • Create suitable living environments for renters/homeowners in the City of Visalia • Address community/special needs and services
• Address the needs of people experiencing homelessness • Enhance community development
• Provide efficient administration and oversight of the CDBG and HOME programs

3. Evaluation of past performance
The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires an evaluation of the City’s progress toward goals for the CDBG and HOME funds each year of the five-year ConPlan period. Over the past five-year ConPlan period, 2015 to 2019, the City has supported organizations providing services to populations in need and addressed the lack of affordable housing through partnerships with the Housing Authority, and non-profit organizations, including Self-Help Enterprises (SHE), a local low-income housing provider. The City has allocated grant funding to the following:
• Fair Housing Council of Central California (FHCCC), assisting 184 people by handling housing discrimination complaints and agency referrals, holding seminars and educational workshops, and conducting discrimination testing;
• Acquisition of the -Self Help Enterprises. Inc. (SHE) public facility for bridge/transitional housing; • Self Help Enterprises on policy development and provision of grants for the mobile home repair program, and acquisition and rehabilitation of affordable housing and rental units; • Family Services of Tulare County, providing HOME funded tenant based rental assistance and case management;
• ADA Compliance Public Improvement projects;
• Park improvements (Jefferson Park, Community Lot Garden); • Section 108 loan payments; and
• Support to providers of assistance to homeless and low-income populations.

4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process The 2022 Annual Action Plan goals were established based on high priority needs as identified in the 2020-2024 ConPlan. The City used several community outreach methods including public meetings, two surveys, and stakeholder consultations. Efforts to reach populations underrepresented in the planning process of the ConPlan included discussions regarding the survey with various housing, social service, 140

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 5 | P a g e

faith-based, and other organizations that provide services to the disabled, special needs, low income, and homeless population community. Many of the organizations that assisted in the effort to distribute the surveys posted them on their websites and sent notification to their partners and clientele. The surveys were provided in English and Spanish.

Several stakeholders were also consulted during public workshops, over the phone, and in-person at their offices. Such stakeholders included, but were not limited to, Housing providers, Health service providers, social service providers, Organizations representing protected classes, Fair housing, Broadband internet providers, Emergency management organizations, the Citizens Advisory Committee, the Disability Advocacy Committee, and additional local and regional stakeholders.

The Program Year 2022 Annual Action Plan 30-day public comment period took place from March 18, 2022 through April 18, 2022. A Public notice was published in the Visalia Times Delta on March 18, 2022 and April 1, 2022. The draft 2022 Annual Action Plan was available for review on the City's website at www.visalia.city. Public notices also sent to the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv and the City's social media channels. The City also held the following virtual community and city council meetings:
• City Council (Draft Review) on April 4, 2022 at 7:00pm • Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) on April 6, 2022 at 5:30pm • City Council Public Hearing (Adoption) on April 18, 2022 at 7:00pm The Program Year 2022 Annual Action Plan Amendment 30-day public comment period took place from March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023. A Public notice was published in the Visalia Times Delta on March 15, 2023, and March 17, 2023. The draft PY 2022 Annual Action Plan Amendment was available for review on the City's website at www.visalia.city. Public notices also sent to the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv and the City's social media channels. The City also held the following community and city council meetings:
• City Council (Draft Review) on April 3, 2023 at 7:00pm • Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) on April 5, 2023 at 5:30pm • City Council Public Hearing (Adoption) on April 17, 2023 at 7:00pm

5. Summary of public comments
This could be a brief narrative summary or reference an attached document from the Citizen Participation section of the Con Plan.

Summary of comments will be added following the public comment period.

6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them 141

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 6 | P a g e

All comments will be accepted and taken into consideration.

7. Summary
The City of Visalia conducted several public meetings and hearings to gather input and review the 2020- 2024 Consolidated Plan. In addition, the City held stakeholder meetings with multiple community and regional organizations and agencies providing services to low income and homeless populations. The City has reviewed several plans to gather information for the development of this Plan that included the City of Visalia Housing Element for 2020-2023, which was being drafted concurrently with the Consolidated Plan. A summary of the full citizen participation of the 2022 Annual Action Plan will be included as Attachment A.
142

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 7 | P a g e

PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies – 91.200(b)

1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan Describe the agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.

Agency Role Name Department/Agency
Lead Agency VISALIA
CDBG Administrator VISALIA Finance Department-Housing Division HOPWA Administrator N/A N/A
HOME Administrator VISALIA Finance Department- Housing Division HOPWA-C Administrator N/A N/A
Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative (optional)
The City of Visalia (City) is the Lead Agency for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) entitlement programs at the City of Visalia. The City’s Finance Department, Housing Division administers the funds it receives under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
Margie Perez
City of Visalia – Housing Specialist
Finance Department - Housing Division
707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia, CA 93291
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (559) 713-4460
143

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 8 | P a g e

AP-10 Consultation – 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)

1. Introduction
The City has fostered a community engagement process and gathered public input on community improvements that could be addressed by utilizing federal entitlement funds. During the preparation of the 5-year ConPlan, the City facilitated a community outreach and engagement effort to further strengthen the dialogue between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies that receive federal funding. Participants in the community outreach process provided feedback on what they viewed as the most pressing housing, special needs/public services, and community development needs in the City.

Specifically related to public and assisted housing providers, private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies, City staff has met with the County Homeless Task Group, a City Emergency Shelter Task Group, and the Continuum of Care (Homeless Alliance) members. Organizations represented in City priorities includes county and local government, faith-based organizations, concerned citizens, housing providers, service providers, including mental health, education, employment, and others.

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))
City staff met with public officials, City departments, the Housing Authority of Tulare County (HATC), residents, and agencies to develop strategies for how best to invest grant funding to address discuss priority community needs. Staff met with the Citizens Advisory Committee, which acts as a liaison between the public and the City Council concerning community needs. Also, City Staff met with the Disability Advocacy Committee, to be advised on the needs of disabled persons in the community. A focus group was held with the City’s Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), Self-Help Enterprises, which has, in the past and present, worked collaboratively with the City of Visalia to increase the City’s supply of affordable housing.

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 Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance (Alliance) is the regional continuum of care which facilitates services through a system of homeless housing and service providers, advocates, government representatives and consumers to conduct outreach and strategies to address the needs of homeless persons and persons at risk of homelessness.
144

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 9 | P a g e

City staff participates in regular monthly meetings of the Alliance to better understand the changing needs and challenges facing homeless populations; to coordinate strategies that ensure effective regional coordination in helping homeless individuals and families reach maximum self-sufficiency.

The City of Visalia supports the Alliance by providing grant funding for the yearly Point In Time Homeless Census and counts, the Project Homeless Connect events, as well as continued administration of the HUD Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).

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 Not applicable. The City does not receive ESG funding.

2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations, and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdiction’s consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities
Representatives of the following agencies, groups, and organizations contributed to the narratives and data include in the Consolidated Plan and Action Plan preparation are listed in Table 2 on the following page.

145

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 10 | P a g e

Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization Kings/Tulare Homeless Alliance Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-homeless
Regional organization
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Public Housing Needs
Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Homelessness Strategy
Market Analysis
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Consultation provided information; Continued partnership/collaboration through CoC meetings. Survey feedback presented the ConPlan High priority needs, 202 2 Action Plan through the listserv members who represent all the types of organizations listed above including service providers, and community stakeholders. The Continuum of Care, and Homeless Task Group meetings and feedback relate to the need for homeless housing. CDBG funding would assist KTHA to further meet the needs of the chronically homeless community. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Housing Authority of Tulare County Agency/Group/Organization Type PHA
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Public Housing Needs
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
HATC provided input through the survey, recommending that the city make more funding available for the acquisition and rehabilitation of more affordable housing. HATC was also consulted in preparation of the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. 146

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 11 | P a g e

3 Agency/Group/Organization Self-Help Enterprises
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services - Housing
Services-Education
Regional organization
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Lead-based Paint Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan, which helped in prioritizing the City's housing and community needs. 4 Agency/Group/Organization Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children
Services-Elderly Persons
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS
Services-homeless
Services-Health
Health Agency
Child Welfare Agency
Regional organization
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
5 Agency/Group/Organization United Way of Tulare County Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Regional organization
147

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 12 | P a g e

What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
6 Agency/Group/Organization Family Services of Tulare County Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Children
Services-Elderly Persons
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS
Services-Victims of Domestic Violence
Services-homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Homelessness Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
148

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 13 | P a g e

7 Agency/Group/Organization Kings View Corporation
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Elderly Persons
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS
Services-Victims of Domestic Violence
Services-homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homeless Needs - Families with children
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Homelessness Strategy
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan.
8 Agency/Group/Organization Citizens Advisory Committee Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government - Local What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
Representative(s) contributed narrative and data to answer questions relevant to the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. A community meeting was also conducted on April 6, 2022 to review the draft 2022 Annual Action Plan.

Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting 149

City of Visalia Draft PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 14 | P a g e

The City reached out to several different agencies, groups, and organizations and invited them to participate in the preparation of the 5-year Consolidated Plan goals. They were contacted via email and provided with a stakeholder flyer that included information on the community forum and public hearings. The City asked these groups to forward this information to their colleagues and mailing lists. They were also encouraged to complete the community needs survey and to share the survey link with community stakeholders. The City also published public notices in the Visalia Times Delta, the City website, and the City's social media outlets.

The types of additional agencies were businesses, educational services, groups and organizations, employment service providers, fair housing services, health service and domestic violence service providers, service providers for children and elderly persons, other advisory, veterans and concerned citizens, as well as faith-based organizations. The following additional providers were sent notice and information via-email encouraging feedback on preparing the Action Plan activities form:
• Businesses: Downtown Visalians, Hispanic/Visalia Chamber of Commerce, Tulare County Economic Development, & Retail Associates.

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? Continuum of Care Kings Tulare
Homeless Alliance
As the designated bi-county Continuum of Care, the Alliance is responsible for planning process for the bi - county region which includes the City of Visalia. The Alliance mission is to coordinate and leverage resources that empower community partners including the City of Visalia to address homelessness.

City of Visalia Fair
Housing Rental
Assessment
City of Visalia and
Fair Housing Council
of Central California
The Fair Housing Council Fair Housing Rental Assessment is based upon systemic paired testing of the rental housing market to form the basis of plans to counteract discriminatory practices in the rental housing market with the City.

City of Visalia
General Plan Housing
Element
City of Visalia
The Housing Element assesses the need for housing for all levels of income and establishes policies to meet those needs. The Strategic Plan goals support the implementation of the Housing Element by working to construct and rehabilitate new and existing affordable housing units.

Tulare County Multi-
Jurisdictional Local
Hazard Mi
County of Tulare Development, as related to the Consolidated Plan, that occurs shall be primarily in the areas where environmental hazards can be properly mitigated.

Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts

Narrative (optional)
None.
150

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 15 | P a g e

AP-12 Participation – 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
Outreach for the City of Visalia’s 2020-24 Consolidated Plan objectives were conducted in several methods: community outreach and housing needs surveys, public meetings, stakeholder interviews, and public hearings. Significant outreach efforts were made to the public, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, housing services, and health and social service organizations (including providing services to homeless persons and families, persons with HIV/AIDS, victims of domestic violence, senior citizens, and extremely low to low-income populations).

The 2022 Action Plan goals were established based on highest priority needs identified during the 2020-24 Community Needs Assessment. Based upon the input received by the community and council, high priorities were identified as homeless services, fair housing, home repairs, mobile home repairs, code enforcement, ADA improvements, a low-barrier homeless shelter, affordable housing, and tenant-based rental assistance.

The 2022 Action Plan 30-day public comment period seeking community input was from March 18, 2022, through April 18, 2022. The draft 2022 Action Plan was available for review on the City's website at www.visalia.city. The City took several steps to seek community input on the draft 2022 Action Plan, by public notices in the Visalia Times Delta on 3/18/22 and 4/1/22, City's website, City's social media outlets, and the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv. The following meetings were held to review the draft Action Plan and obtain public comment. • City Council Meeting on April 4, 2022 at 7:00pm
• Citizens Advisory Committee on April 6, 2022 at 5:30pm • City Council Public Hearing on April 18, 2022 at 7:00pm

The 2022 Action Plan Amendment 30-day public comment was held from March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023. The draft 2022 Action Plan Amendment was available for review on the City's website. The City published public notices in the Visalia Times Delta on 3/15/23, 3/17/23, and 3/31/23, the City's website, the City's social media outlets, and the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv. The following community and city council meetings were held to review the draft PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment and obtain public comment. • City Council Meeting on April 3, 2023 at 7:00pm
• Citizens Advisory Committee on April 5, 2023 at 5:30pm • City Council Public Hearing on April 17, 2023 at 7:00pm 151

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 16 | P a g e

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 Non-targeted/broad
community
English/Spanish public notice
published in the Visalia Times
Delta on 3/18/22 & 4/1/22.

Comments
to be added. N/A
2 Internet
Outreach
Non-targeted/broad
community
English/Spanish public notice and
draft 2022 AAP were available on
the City's website from 3/18/22 -
4/18/22.

Comments
to be added. N/A
www.visalia.city/depts
/finance/housing_n_cd
bg_services/public_not
ices.asp.
3 Internet
Outreach
Non-targeted/broad
community
City social media posts on City's
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
pages.

Comments
to be added. N/A
4 Listserv Notice Non-targeted/broad
community
Approximately 330 receipts were
notified on the Kings Tulare
Homeless Alliance listserv notice.

Comments
to be added. N/A
5 Public Hearing Non-targeted/broad
community
City council meeting to review
draft 2022 Action Plan and obtain
public comment was held on
4/4/22
Comments
to be added N/A
6 Public
Meeting
Non-targeted/broad
community
Citizens Advisory Committee
community meeting to review
draft and obtain public comment
was held on 4/6/22.

Comments
to be added. N/A
8 Public Hearing Non-targeted/broad
community
Public hearing to approve the 2022
Action Plan and authorize
submission of the plan to HUD
held on 4/18/22.

Comments
to be added. N/A
152

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 17 | P a g e

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)
9 Newspaper Ad Non-targeted/broad
community
English/Spanish public notice
published in the Visalia Times
Delta on 3/15/23, 3/17/23 &
3/31/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
10 Internet
Outreach
Non-targeted/broad
community
English/Spanish public notice and
draft 2022 AAP Amendment were
available on the City's website
from 3/17/23 - 4/17/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
www.visalia.city/depts
/finance/housing_n_cd
bg_services/public_not
ices.asp.
11 Internet
Outreach
Non-targeted/broad
community
City social media posts on City's
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
pages.

Comments
to be added. N/A
12 Listserv Notice Non-targeted/broad
community
Approximately 330 receipts were
notified on the Kings Tulare
Homeless Alliance listserv notice.

Comments
to be added. N/A
13 Public Hearing Non-targeted/broad
community
City council meeting to review
draft 2022 Action Plan and obtain
public comment was held on
4/3/23
Comments
to be added N/A
14 Public
Meeting
Non-targeted/broad
community
Citizens Advisory Committee
community meeting to review
draft and obtain public comment
was held on 4/5/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
15 Public Hearing Non-targeted/broad
community
Public hearing to approve the 2022
Action Plan Amendment and
authorize submission of the plan
to HUD held on 4/17/23.

Comments
to be added. N/A
Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach
153

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 18 | P a g e

Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2)
Introduction
The Program Year (PY) 2022, CDBG estimated budget consists of $1,300,000 in entitlement funds, $50,000 in estimated program income, and $1,834,163 in prior year resources for a total of $3,184,163 CDBG funds. The PY 2022, HOME estimated budget consists of $507,520 in HOME funds, $200,000 in estimated program income for a total of $707,520. The City currently does not have an Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) or Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) grant. The Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan is the first year 2020 grant allocation multiplied by 3 years to equal total remainder of ConPlan in program year 2020. Each program year the Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan is subtracted by the current grant allocation.

The Program Year (PY) 2022 Action Plan Amendment includes, CDBG budget of $1,183,482 in actual entitlement CDBG funds, $200,000 in program income, and $1,834,163 in prior year resources for a total of $3,217,645 CDBG funds. The PY 2022, HOME budget of $546,791 in actual HOME entitlement funds, $200,000 in program income, and $120,000 in prior year resources for a total of $866,791.

Anticipated Resources
Program
Source
of
Funds Uses of Funds
Expected Amount Available Year 3 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$ Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
CDBG Public
Federal
Admin,
Public Services,
Affordable
Housing, and
Public
Improvements

$1,834,163 $200,000 $1,834,163 $3,217,645 $2,650,992 The estimated PY 2022 CDBG resources include $1,300,000 in entitlement funds,
$50,000 in program income, and $1,834,163
in prior year resources for a total of
$3,184,163 in CDBG funds.
154

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 19 | P a g e

Program
Source
of
Funds Uses of Funds
Expected Amount Available Year 3 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$ Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
HOME Public
Federal
Admin,
Homebuyer
Assistance, and
Multifamily Rental
New Construction

$546,791 $200,000 $120,000 $866,791 $1,622,472

The PY 2022 HOME Amendment resources
include $546,791 in entitlement funds, and
$200,000 in program income for a total of
$866,791 in HOME funds.

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 leverages both federal and local housing funds by supporting non-profit organizations that develop affordable housing. The City, or its partners, provides matching funds for housing related services to several programs, which includes the following:
• SHE-CHDO Scattered Single Family Acquisition/Rehabilitation/Resale. Scattered Site Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resale of Single- Family Property Program will be administered and operated through the City’s certified Non-Profit, designated Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), currently Self-Help Enterprises (SHE). • SHE-CHDO Scattered Multi-Family Site Acquisition/Rehabilitation/Rent. For example, the Lofts Project is the development of an 81-unit multi-family affordable housing complex that is budgeted above $25 million. HOME funds will be leverage with the various other funding sources, such as, No Place Like HOME Program (NPLH), Multifamily Housing Program (MHP), and the Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG). • Voucher Program – used as a match to receive Tulare Housing First grants to provide permeant supportive housing vouchers. • First-Time Homebuyers Program – leveraged with private first position loans to assist First-Time Homebuyers purchase a home.

Below is a list of potential financial resources considered a part of the City’s overall financial plan to address priority needs and specific 155

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 20 | P a g e

objectives identified in the Consolidated Plan.
• Housing Authority of Tulare County (HATC) a public housing authority with jurisdiction within the City and the County. • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program (LIHTC): The LIHTC program provides federal and state tax credits for private developers and investors who agree to set aside all or an established percentage of their rental units for low-income households for no less than 30 years.
• Multi-Family Housing Program: If California’s Housing and Community Development Department awards Multi-Family Housing Program loans to assist rental housing developments affordable to low-income households in the City, the City will assist the developers with identifying local funding.
• The City will also be receiving on an annual basis, Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) funding which will assist with matching requirements.
156

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 21 | P a g e

If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan The City of Visalia does not currently own any land considered viable for the needs and uses identified in the plan. However, there is no shortage or available land for these purposes, as discussed below.

Discussion
The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is part of a statewide mandate to address housing issues that are related to future growth in a region. State housing element law assigns the responsibility for preparing the RHNA for the Tulare County region to the Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG). TCAG, and other California councils of governments (COGs), undertake the RHNA process prior to each housing element cycle. The current RHNA is for the six-housing element cycle and covers a 9.75- year projection period from January 1, 2014, to September 30, 2023. The City of Visalia has conducted an analysis and concludes that Visalia has adequate sites to accommodate its RHNA allocation for Extremely Low, Very Low, and Low-Income categories.

The City Planning Department lists lands available for development in its sites inventory list. However, it is undetermined as to who will develop and when development will occur. A comparison of Regional Housing Need and Residential sites is listed in Table 1-41 from the Draft Housing Element. The City approved 2,835 units between 2014 and 2018, consisting of 2,486 single-family units and 400 multi- family units (see SP-05 attachment - Regional Housing Need and Sites Inventory). If constructed, there would be a surplus of units for extremely low income: 210 units, low income: 514 units, moderate income: 675 units, and above moderate income: 3,232 units. 157

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 22 | P a g e

Annual Goals and Objectives

AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives
Goals Summary Information
Sort
Order Goal Name
Start
Year
End
Year Category
Geographic
Area
Needs
Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
1 Increase
affordable
housing
2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Citywide Affordable
Housing
HOME:
$796,041
Rental units constructed: 11 Household
Housing Unit;
Direct Financial Assistance to Homebuyers:
5 Households Assisted

2 Create
suitable living
environment
2020 2025 Affordable
Housing
Citywide/
LMI Tracts
Affordable
Housing
Neighborhood
Preservation
CDBG:
$300,000

Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 15
Household Housing Unit;
Housing Code Enforcement/Foreclosed
Property Care: 200 Household Housing Unit
3 Address
community/
special needs
services
2020 2025 Homeless
Non-
Homeless
Special Needs
Citywide Shelter and
counseling for
the homeless
Public Services
CDBG: $42,500 Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 50 Households
Assisted
4 Address
homeless
needs
2020 2025 Homeless Citywide Shelter and
counseling for
the homeless
Public Services
CDBG: $65,000 Public service activities other than
Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit:
400 Persons Assisted; Public service
activities for Low/Moderate Income
Housing Benefit: 13Households Assisted

158

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 23 | P a g e

Sort
Order Goal Name
Start
Year
End
Year Category
Geographic
Area
Needs
Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
5 Enhance
community
development
2020 2025 Non-Housing
Community
Development
LMI Tracts Improve
Community and
Public Facilities
CDBG:
$2,555,145
Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities
other than Low/Moderate Income Housing
Benefit: 50 Persons Assisted
Overnight/Emergency Shelter/Transitional
Housing Beds added: 100 Beds
6 Program and
planning
administration
2020 2025 Program
administration
funds
Citywide Community
Development
CDBG:
$262,500
HOME:
$70,750
Other: 1 Other
Table 6 – Goals Summary

Goal Descriptions
1 Goal Name Increase affordable housing
Goal Description Increase the amount of affordable housing stock in the City of Visalia with the construction of 80 units, of which 11 new LMI multi-family rental units will be HOME funded on a property located at 300 E. Oak Avenue. To provide 5 first time homebuyer direct assistance for 5 newly constructed single-family homes located on NW 5th Avenue and N. Court Avenue.
2 Goal Name Create suitable living environment
Goal Description Code enforcement inspection services for an estimated 200 units within deteriorated or deteriorating low-moderate income eligible areas to arrest the decline of the area. An Emergency Repair and Accessibility Program and Owner - Occupied Senior Mobile Home Program. HOME funded Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA).
159

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 24 | P a g e

3 Goal Name Address community/special needs services
Goal Description Provide vital public services which include homeless case management, homeless outreach services, homeless prevention mortgage/rental and utilities assistance, and fair housing.
4 Goal Name Address homeless needs
Goal Description CDBG funds will be provided for annual Point-In-Time counts, project homeless connect and voucher match case management
5 Goal Name Enhance community development
Goal Description Improve Visalia community facilities and infrastructure. The location of such facilities will be determined however, improvements will be made in designated LMI tracts in the City.
6 Goal Name Program and planning administration
Goal Description Fund planning and administration activities by City staff to administer the CDBG and HOME Program funds.

160

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan Amendment 25 | P a g e

Projects
AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d)
Introduction
Program Year 2022 CDBG and HOME Projects were established based on the high priority needs identified in the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan. The Consolidated Plan goals below address the high priority needs and serve as the foundation for strategic actions the City will undertake. These goals are based on the ConPlan’s Needs Assessment and Housing Market Analysis sections as well as community outreach conducted:
• Increase affordable housing
• Create suitable living environment
• Address community/special need services
• Address homeless needs
• Enhance community development
• Program planning & administration
The City's PY 2022 estimated CDBG budget includes $1,300,000 in CDBG grant funds; $50,000 in program income; and $1,834,63 in prior year funds. The City's PY 2022 estimated HOME budget includes $507,520 in HOME funds; and $200,000 in program income. Any increase or decrease of 2022 CDBG program income will be directed toward the CDBG ADA improvement projects. Any increase or decrease of Program Year 2022 HOME grant and/or program income will be directed toward The Lofts Project.

Projects
# Project Name
1 2022 HOME Administration
2 2022 The Lofts Project
3 2022 First Time Homebuyer Program
4 2022 CDBG Administration
5 2022 Address Homeless Needs - Public Services
6 2022 Address Community/Special Needs Services
7 2022 Emergency Repair Program (ERAP)
8 2022 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program
9 2022 Code Enforcement
10 2022 ADA Compliance Projects
11 2022 Navigation Center
Table 7 - Project Information
161

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 26 | P a g e

Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs
The projects will address the priority needs described in the Consolidated Plan by providing direct homeless services, homeless prevention services, fair housing services, code enforcement inspections to maintain neighborhood stabilization, housing rehabilitation programs, affordable housing options for the LMI population, ADA compliance projects, and develop a low-barrier Navigation Center. An obstacle in addressing underserved needs include needs outweighing funding resources. Nevertheless, the City worked resourcefully in combing multiple funding sources to maximize the allocation of resources to address underserved community needs.

162

City of Visalia DRAFT 2021-2022 Annual Action Plan 27 | P a g e

AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information
1 Project Name 2022 HOME Administration
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Program and planning administration
Needs Addressed Community Development
Funding HOME: $70,520
Description 2022 HOME Administration and Planning.

Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
N/A
Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities 2022 HOME Administration and Planning. 2 Project Name 2022 The Lofts Project
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Increase affordable housing
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $511,770
Description Construction of an 80-unit mulit-family rental complex, of which 11-units will be HOME funded.

Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
11 LMI households are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description 300 E. Oak Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291 Planned Activities The City will provide funding toward Self-Enterprises, Inc. (SHE), to build 11 of the 80 new LMI multi-family rental units. 3 Project Name 2022 First Time Homebuyer Program
Target Area Citywide
163

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 28 | P a g e

Goals Supported Increase affordable housing
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Funding HOME: $125,000 $245,000
Description First Time Homebuyer Program
Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
5 LMI families
Location Description NW 5th Avenue and N. Court Avenue, Visalia Planned Activities First Time Homebuyer Program for the single-family homes built on NW 5th Avenue and N. Court Avenue.
4 Project Name 2022 CDBG Administration
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Program and planning administration
Needs Addressed Community Development
Funding CDBG: $262,500
Description 2022 CDBG Administration and Planning
Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
N/A
Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities 2022 CDBG Administration and Planning 5 Project Name 2022 Address Homeless Needs - Public Services Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Address homeless needs
Needs Addressed Public Services
Funding CDBG: $65,000
Description Continuum of Care Point in Time survey and LINC services.

Permanent Supportive Housing Voucher match.
164

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 29 | P a g e

Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
414 low-income homeless individuals.

Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities Continuum of Care Point in Time survey and LINC services.

Permanent Supportive Housing Voucher match.
6 Project Name 2022 Address Community/Special Needs Services Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Address community/special needs services Needs Addressed Public Services
Funding CDBG: $35,000
Description Homeless outreach - case management, supportive services, security deposits, rental application fees, legal document assistance; homeless prevention - rental/mortgage assistance and utilities assistance, and fair housing education.

Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
50 low-moderate households
Location Description City wide
Planned Activities Homeless services, homeless prevention, and fair housing. 7 Project Name 2022 Emergency Repair Program (ERAP)
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Create suitable living environment
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Preservation
Funding CDBG: $50,000
Description Emergency Repair and ADA Program (ERAP) $50,000 to provide owner occupied unit’s emergency repairs and energy efficient upgrades.

Target Date 6/30/2023
165

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 30 | P a g e

Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
8 LMI households are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description Citywide
Planned Activities Emergency Repair and ADA Program (ERAP) $50,000 to provide owner occupied unit’s emergency repairs and energy efficient upgrades.
8 Project Name 2022 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Create suitable living environment
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Preservation
Funding CDBG: $100,000
Description Senior Mobile Home Repair Program to owner occupied low- income seniors and/or disabled persons.

Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
7 low-income seniors and/or disabled persons.

Location Description Citywide. Sites are to be determined.

Planned Activities Senior Mobile Home Repair Program to owner occupied low- income seniors and/or disabled persons.
9 Project Name 2022 Code Enforcement
Target Area LMI Tracts
Goals Supported Create suitable living environment
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Preservation
Funding CDBG: $150,000
Description 2022 Code Enforcement services in deteriorating or deteriorated low-moderate-income areas to arrest the decline of the area.

Target Date 6/30/2023
166

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 31 | P a g e

Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
200 LMI households are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description LMI target areas.

Planned Activities 2022 Code Enforcement services in deteriorating or deteriorated low-moderate-income areas to arrest the decline of the area. 10 Project Name 2022 ADA Compliance Projects
Target Area LMI Tracts
Goals Supported Enhance community development
Needs Addressed Improve Community and Public Facilities Funding CDBG: $458,958 $499,940
Description 2022 ADA compliance projects and public infrastructure improvements.

Target Date 6/30/2023
Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
50 LMI persons are expected to benefit from the proposed activities.

Location Description LMI Target Areas.

Planned Activities 2022 ADA compliance projects and public infrastructure improvements.
11 Project Name 2022 Navigation Center
Target Area Citywide
Goals Supported Enhance community development
Needs Addressed Shelter and counseling for the homeless Funding CDBG: $2,055,205
Description Development of a Low-Barrier Navigation Center through acquisition, rehab, or construction.

Target Date 6/30/2024
167

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 32 | P a g e

Estimate the number and
type of families that will
benefit from the proposed
activities
100 low-income homeless individuals are expected to benefit from the proposed activity.

Location Description 3506 N. Dinuba Blvd. Visalia, CA 93291 Planned Activities To develop a Low-Barrier Navigation Center for people experiencing homelessness.
168

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 33 | P a g e

AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed Many of the CDBG activities funded in 2022 are offered citywide to low- and moderate-income households. However, for certain CDBG programs, such public infrastructure improvements, and code enforcement are directed to neighborhoods that qualify for CDBG funds on an "area benefit" basis. An area benefit activity is one that is available to benefit all the residents of an area which is:
• Primarily residential and
• Where 51% of the population is low- and moderate-income Except for the HOME-funded multi-family rental housing units to be built (The Lofts) which is located at 300 E Oak Avenue, and the Navigation Center at 3506 N. Dinuba Blvd. all other programs are to be administered citywide, or within the CDBG Target area.

Geographic Distribution
Target Area Percentage of Funds
Citywide 84
LMI Tracts 16
Table 8 - Geographic Distribution

Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically Entitlement funds will be distributed citywide as eligible. However, CDBG funds will be utilized in CDBG Target areas for Code Enforcement, and ADA Improvements. A presumed Benefit project, such as an ADA improvement project or low-and-moderate-income residential areas in need of access, would be applicable. CDBG funding directed toward public services is a citywide public service benefit. Public Facilities are based upon CDBG requirements, such as the area benefit noted above, limited clientele, or income qualifications. Affordable housing will be pursued citywide, which encompasses CDBG Target Areas. Other programs may benefit within the CDBG Target areas as well, however, are allowed citywide, based upon income eligibility.

Discussion

The Low-and Moderate-Income Concentration Census Tract Map that is being utilized for the 2022 Action Plan and is based on the Low-and Moderate-Income Summary Data (LMISD) provided on HUD Exchange website.

169

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 34 | P a g e

Affordable Housing
AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g)
Introduction
The AAP must specify goals for the number of homeless, non-homeless, and special needs households to be provided affordable housing within the program year. The AAP must also indicate the number of affordable housing units that will be provided by program type, including rental assistance, production of new units, rehabilitation of existing units, or acquisition of existing units. For this section, the term “affordable housing” is defined in the HOME regulations at 24 CFR 92.252 for rental housing and 24 CFR

92.254 for homeownership.

Findings in the data, included within the Strategic Plan, show that there is not an adequate amount of local housing affordable to LMI households, especially for extremely low- and very low-income households. According to the HUD data reports there is sufficient housing units for the various income categories. After analysis, the only income category that truly does have enough housing is the 50-80% AMI. The following data (CHAS 2014-2018) supports this housing deficit/surplus:
• 0-30% AMI: There are 4,170 households living in this income category, yet there are only 2,610 rental units available that are affordable to these households in the City. • 30-50% AMI: There are 4,530 households living in this income category yet there are only 2,935 units available.
• 50-80% AMI: There are 5,880 households in this income category and there are 1,650 units.

Tables 33 and 36 included within the Strategic Plan, MA-15 section show the recent changes to factors effecting affordability including income, rent and value. Median income has increased 2.5% since 2015 and when compared to the growth in median contract rent (+7.2%), rental housing prices are outpacing income growth. This may continue to strain affordability in the rental housing market, and lead to higher rates of housing cost burden, especially for LMI households. However, when looking at the owner market, ownership may be more attainable now than it was previously in 2017. This is evidenced by the fact that median income growth has increased, while median home values have declined over 10%.

One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless 0
Non-Homeless 31
Special-Needs 0
Total 31
Table 9 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement

170

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 35 | P a g e

One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Rental Assistance 0
The Production of New Units 11
Rehab of Existing Units 15
Acquisition of Existing Units 5
Total 31
Table 10 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type

Discussion
Staff works with its non-profit partner SHE to include additional types of acquisition, such as vacant, infill and reconstruction. As funding, through PI becomes available, it would be directed toward SHE CHDO acquisition rehabilitation projects, including the Lofts Project. The 2022 Action Plan includes the development of 11 HOME-assisted affordable rental units with the Lofts Project, 8 home repairs with the Emergency Repair & Accessibility Program, 7 mobile home repairs with the Senior Mobile Home Repair Program, and 5 First Time Homebuyer Assistance.

171

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 36 | P a g e

AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h)
Introduction
HATC works closely with the City, Continuum of Care “Alliance” and the recently formed Homeless Resource Task Group. Actions planned by the PHA this year are referenced below. HATC owns/manages 179 Public housing units in Visalia and manages another 764 affordable housing units through the City of Visalia. HATC has a master lease with Family Services of Tulare County (FSTC) to house families that participate in the rapid rehousing and domestic violence programs that FSTC administers within the City of Visalia. Through a partnership with Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency (TCHHSA) Mental Health, HATC manages Clark Court, Transitional Living Center, and East Tulare Cottages which house and provide supportive services for individuals that participate in TCHHSA Mental Health programs.

Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing HATC will continue to own and manages 179 public housing units in the City. HATC also owns and manages an additional 764 affordable housing units. There is currently no plan to purchase additional public-housing units, nor do they plan on removing any units from their inventory. Their current projection is for an investment of $375,500 in Capital Fund improvements during the FY 2022. There is no project based rental assistance units within the City. HATC expenditures cover maintenance and rehabilitation in public-housing units within the City. HATC's Capital Fund expenditures will cover a large range of projects, including roofing replacement, landscaping improvements, carpet replacement along with air conditioning and heating unit improvements. HATC acquired vacant land at 830 E. Roosevelt Avenue in Visalia to develop a mulit-family development, with a total of four (4) units for rental to qualified low-income households. (Data source: HATC November 2021).

Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership
HATC created a Resident Council composed of five residents from HUD funded programs (Multifamily Housing, LIHTC, HOME, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, and public housing). The Resident Council works with HATC staff on evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of existing rental assistance programs. This structure was put into place to give public housing residents the opportunity to provide input on necessary program modifications, through the Council members. HATC is proactive in the inclusion of public-housing residents in the policy making process. As required, two public housing tenants sit on the HATC Commission board. Between the Resident Council and tenant representation on the Board an equitable and transparent policy making process has been put into place.

A vital driving factor that continues to influence HATC programs is the promotion and goal of tenant self-sufficiency. HATC views homeownership as a long-term goal for most program participants. HATC staff works with tenants to effectively provide them with the necessary resources to achieve homeownership. HATC’s Annual Re-Examination Notice provides public-housing participants with an 172

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 37 | P a g e

extensive referral list that aids with homeownership. Their list includes programs managed by: CSET, City of Visalia, Habitat for Humanity, CalHFA, and Self-Help Enterprises. HATC’s program coordinator works with any interested public housing tenant to effectively inform them of all the different programs and services available to them. Effective collaboration between their agency and other public and nonprofit agencies is imperative to help promote homeownership among all HATC’s tenants. Lastly, HATC created “RentTrack Payment, an online payment system which will allow public housing residents to utilize their rental payments made on time to raise or build individual credit scores. RentTrack has increased credit scores an average of 29 points in just two months and 132 points over a 2-year period.

If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance
HATC is not designated as troubled.

Discussion
See discussion above.
173

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 38 | P a g e

AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) Introduction
This section describes the City’s one-year goals and the specific action steps it will undertake in the program year to carry out the homeless strategy outlined in the ConPlan’s SP-60 Homelessness Strategy.

This section will also describe the jurisdiction’s goals and specify the activities it will undertake to serve the housing and supportive service needs of non-homeless populations who require supportive housing.

Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including
The City has allocated over $2 million of CDBG funds for the development of a Low-Barrier Navigation Center for people experiencing homelessness. The City also allocating Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) and Low-Mod Successor Agency Housing (SAH) funds toward the development and operation of the Project. The project is expected to begin construction in Program Year 2022. The Visalia Navigation Center anticipates having a 100-bed public facility to house individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The Visalia Navigation Center will follow “Housing First” practices and work closely with the local Continuum of Care for the Visalia region to house individuals and families quickly into rapid rehousing, transitional housing, and permanent housing.

Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs
The City will continue targeted outreach efforts towards unsheltered homeless persons through collaborative efforts with the Alliance Housing Navigators, Family Services, Kings View PATH Team, and Tulare County Mental Health Crisis Team. These organizations canvas the City to conduct outreach to people experiencing homelessness, and connect them to services. Client information is included in the local Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) so the outreach teams can remain apprised of client status on the housing priority list and other community referrals.

The City will also continue to support the Alliance’s outreach efforts to persons experiencing homelessness through the PIT survey completed in January. The PIT survey provides a snapshot of the adults, children in households and unaccompanied youth living in the City of Visalia who meet HUD’s definition of homelessness. Information gathered through the PIT is used to understand the causes and trends over time of homelessness, as well as to determine the unmet shelter and service needs of the homeless.

Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City is in the planning phase of developing a low-barrier Navigation Center within the City of Visalia.

A low-barrier Navigation Center will assist in proving solution to create safe and successful permanent 174

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 39 | P a g e

exits from homelessness using a Housing First Approach. A Housing First Approach will connect homeless individuals to permanent housing without preconditions and barriers to entry, such as sobriety, treatment, or service participation requirements. Project implementation expected to begin in Program Year 2022.

The Sequoia Village Project is a 50-unit motel that was recently acquired through California Department of Housing and Community Development Project Homekey funds to provide immediate shelter to homeless individuals in need of shelter, who are experiencing effects of COVID-19. The City is partnering with the County to rehabilitate the 50-unit motel to provide permanent supportive/affordable housing units for chronically homeless individuals. Tulare County Mental Health services will provide onsite wrap around services to ensure tenants stability.

Eden House is a 22-bed transitional/bridge facility recently opened in 2020, located at 1627 S. Garden St., Visalia, which will provide beds for residents for a period of 60-90 days (or up to a maximum period of 6 months with an approved extension), who are awaiting permanent supportive housing (PSH) or Rapid Re-Housing (RRH) placements through various funding programs. Eden's House provides extensive on-site wrap around services including mental health assistance and case management.

The Visalia Homeless Center managed by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Rev. Suzy Ward oversees and operates a low barrier warming center within the City of Visalia each winter. The warming center is a low-barrier emergency shelter that provides 90 - 100 homeless individuals’ overnight shelter. The warming center averages 75 visitors a night from December 1st through February 28th. The City has entered into a 4-year contract agreement with Visalia Homeless Center to operate a warming Center in the City of Visalia with use of Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) funds.

Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again
Visalia supports and collaborates with local service providers, through the Alliance, to assist homeless individuals and families. Funding priorities include supporting existing high performing housing first rapid rehousing and permanent supporting housing projects.

Funding allocations include:
• Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program utilized for rental assistance and security deposit 175

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 40 | P a g e

which will assist homeless or at risk of homelessness households. • Housing Successor which provides case management/supportive services and street outreach. • Family Services matching funds for case management (public services) to support the Tulare Housing First Shelter Plus Care project. This project provides case management services to 14 chronically homeless individuals who receive a permanent supportive housing. • Kings View Behavioral Health provides public services, including meals for Visalia’s homeless. • ECO program, which is a partnership that includes the Tulare County Workforce Investment Board, Caltrans, and ABLE Industries.
• Property acquisition and rehab housing projects funded through HOME funds and other city- funding pools.
• CoC and City-funded programs/projects that benefit the homeless • Special needs project and programs that serve these vulnerable subpopulations include: CSET Permanent Supportive Housing and Rapid Rehousing, Family Services Permanent Supportive Housing and Transitional Housing, Turning Point and Tulare County HHSA provide PSH projects for chronically homeless individuals and families and/or families with children. The Veterans’ Administration, in conjunction with the Housing Authority of Tulare County, operates the VASH project and Westcare operates the SSVF project that serves eligible veterans and their families.

Uplift Families operates a Transitional Housing project for transitioning age youth.

Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs.

The Alliance employs a Diversion Specialist that is responsible for developing and strengthening referral sources for people at-risk of becoming homeless. Additionally, the Diversion Specialist works with clients that present at any of the Coordinated Entry points to assist in diverting clients from homelessness.

Another important component of prevention/diversion is assisting households with income supports and connections to mainstream benefits. The SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) model is designed to increase access to SSI/SSDI for eligible homeless adults who are and have a mental illness and/or a co-occurring substance use disorder. Staff from all CoC-funded agencies is required to assist clients in obtaining these mainstream benefits. Participation by these agencies provides an effective method of assisting households who may otherwise pursue homelessness assistance.

Discussion
See discussion above. The City is not a recipient of HOPWA funding. 176

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 41 | P a g e

AP-75 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.220(j)
Introduction:

The City of Visalia updated the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) in 2020. The AI describes the impediments or barriers to affordable housing. The primary barriers to affordable housing include the following:
• Lending practices
• Access to Opportunity
• Housing Discrimination
• Development of Affordable Housing
• Land use policies and practices
Actions it 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
The City has taken actions in recent years to support residential development through changes in zoning, further streamlining permitting processes, and reducing impact fees. Visalia has made changes to residential zone districts following the City’s Housing Element update. The City increased the highest allowed multi-family density permitted by right to 15 to 35 units per acre, provided that the development does not exceed 80 units. Also, the City implemented an Affordable Housing Infill Incentive Program in 2017, which reduces Transportation Impact Fees for qualifying projects that meet the infill criteria outlined in the City’s Development Fee Schedule. In the downtown area, waivers for parking requirements have been given based on past use of the building spaces. There are multiple policies and programs in the 2020 Housing Element Update that address promoting incentives for affordable housing that include priority permit processing and modified zoning provisions. New programs in the Housing Element update, propose removing conditional use requirements for housing in certain commercial zone designations. These Housing Element Programs are organized into nine Goals categories, as follows:

1. New Construction - To provide a broad range of housing types and densities to meet the needs of all Visalia residents.

2. Mixed Use, Infill, and Downtown Development - To promote mixed use, infill, and Downtown development in Visalia.

3. Encourage Affordable Housing - To encourage construction and maintenance of affordable housing in Visalia.

4. Foreclosures - To prevent foreclosures, protect affected families, and stabilize neighborhoods impacted by foreclosures.
177

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 42 | P a g e

5. Special Needs/Homeless- To provide a range of housing types and services to meet the needs of households with special needs within the city.

6. Housing Rehabilitation Program - To create and maintain healthy neighborhoods by improving the condition of the existing housing stock and providing for a variety of housing types, sizes, price ranges, and densities compatible with the existing character and integrity of residential neighborhoods.

7. Equal Opportunity Housing and Discrimination Prevention - To provide decent housing and a quality of living environment for all Visalia residents regardless of age, religion, race, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, disability, economic level, and other arbitrary factors.

8. Energy Conservation - To encourage energy efficiency in all new and existing housing.

9. Implementation Monitoring - To ensure that Housing Element programs are implemented on a timely basis and progress of each program is monitored and evaluated annually.

In addition to exploring new policy and regulatory changes, the City will continue its efforts to carry out the following to remove barriers to affordable housing:
• Work with non-profit developers and other public agencies that increase Visalia’s supply of affordable housing
• Work with HATC to properly inform collaborating agencies at the local, state, and federal levels of the need for affordable housing in the City
• Facilitate the construction of affordable rental housing for very low and low-income households by providing regulatory (e.g., density bonus, expedited permit processing, deferred fees, or relaxed parking requirements) and financial incentives
• Support programs that keep people housed, such as tenant-based rental assistance and rapid rehousing
• Streamline permitting process for affordable housing
• Further incentives to developers for the development of affordable housing • Incorporate educational components regarding the importance of affordable housing into community outreach
• Encourage the development of smaller, more affordable units Discussion:

See above discussion.
178

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 43 | P a g e

AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k)
Introduction:

The following section provides HUD with other activities, projects, and actions the City is undertaking to reduce homelessness and housing affordability. Examples include the completion of the AI and identifying the barriers and impediments to affordable housing, supporting homeless programs, public and private solutions for affordable, annual administration of CDBG and HOME funds and attendance of city meetings and CoC meetings.

Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs City actions planned to address obstacles are referenced within the AI and listed herein. AI, Chapter VIII:

Actions includes the plan’s goals and recommended actions to reduce the barriers to affordable housing noted in AP-75.

Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing The City will continue to work closely with non-profit housing and service providers to collaborate on improving the awareness and expansion of available resources to address the needs of the homeless population. Staff has addressed the affordable housing programs for this program year throughout this report. Please refer to sections AP-20, AP 35, AP-38, and AP-55.

In addition to exploring new policy and regulatory changes, the City will continue its efforts to carry out the following to remove barriers to affordable housing:
• Work with non-profit developers and other public agencies that increase Visalia’s supply of affordable housing
• Work with the Housing Authority of Tulare County to properly inform collaborating agencies at the local, state, and federal levels of the need for affordable housing in the City • Facilitate the construction of affordable rental housing for very low and low-income households by providing regulatory (e.g., density bonus, expedited permit processing, deferred fees, or relaxed parking requirements) and financial incentives
• Support programs that keep people housed, such as tenant-based rental assistance and rapid rehousing
• Streamline permitting process for affordable housing
• Further incentives to developers for the development of affordable housing • Incorporate educational components regarding the importance of affordable housing into 179

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 44 | P a g e

community outreach
• Encourage the development of smaller, more affordable units Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards
Approximately 40% of the City’s housing stock was built prior to 1979 therefore work performed on these buildings must be carefully monitored for the presence of lead-based paint in compliance with HUD regulation. Currently the City’ housing rehabilitation or home improvement programs and down payment assistance programs require lead-based paint inspections and/or abatement. Applicants of these programs are provided brochures informing of the health risks of lead-based paint as part of the application process. In addition, City building inspectors and Code Enforcement staff are alerted to signs of this hazard as they perform their substandard housing inspections. The City requires its Subrecipients, Developer partners and rehabilitation contractors of federally funded programs to utilize safe practices and obtain certification through a HUD certified lead testing agency.

Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families The City works with its non-profit partners to reduce the number of poverty-level families. The City will also continue to provide its non-profit partners with funding to acquire, rehabilitate, and sell and rent homes or multi-family units to income-qualifying households at or below 80% AMI.

Additionally, the City has made a commitment to improve the communication and service delivery capabilities of agencies and organizations that provide programs to assist the homeless. Specifically, Staff participates in the monthly Continuum of Care (Alliance) meeting, and various homeless task groups to identify funding and opportunities to provide Visalia’s homeless population with housing and service opportunities.

The City will also continue to partner with organizations to provide services and address the full range of needs of LMI families. Although there are coordinated programs and services to reduce poverty, it is recognized that many unmet needs will remain. The City will continue to work with its partners to identify and work toward meeting those needs by strategically focusing its resources and efforts.

Actions planned to develop institutional structure
The City is a charter city and is managed under a Council-manager form of government. City Council provides policy direction to the City Manager who is responsible for administering City operations. City Council members are the leaders and policymakers elected to represent the community and concentrate on policy that addresses the citizens’ needs and wishes. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is served. The legislative body is the City Council and City Councilmembers are the community’s decision makers. Visalia voters elect a 5-member Council to serve as the City's legislative and governing body. The members represent the City 180

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 45 | P a g e

and their respective Districts, serve four-year terms and they select one member to serve as mayor and one to serve as vice- mayor. A general municipal election is held every two years in November, alternating between two and three positions each cycle.

The Finance Department, Housing Division oversees and administers the day-to-day activities of the CDBG, NSP1, HOME, PLHA, RDA Successor Agency Housing (SAH) and other state and federal funded programs. Staff works together with various City departments to develop programs and activities that improve low-and moderate-income neighborhoods throughout the City. The administration of program activities includes housing, public services, public facility, park and infrastructure improvements, and economic development activities.

Interdepartmental communication and collaboration are two strengths of the delivery system. City staff from various departments works with local organizations and agencies that assist low-income households and individuals. High priority needs were identified during the Consolidated Plan’s community engagement and public review periods.

During the Consolidated Plan public review period, these priorities were established. Additionally, input is received by the community, various committees, and City Council during the feedback period in developing the annual plan. The AAP is designed to address the needs and priorities identified within the ConPlan and direct limited funding available toward the highest needs.

Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies
The City continues to participate in monthly Continuum of Care and quarterly Tulare County Homeless Task Force community meetings to enhance coordination between housing providers, government agencies, mental health, and other key stakeholders in the City. The purpose of these ongoing meetings is to establish a network of agencies to enhance the delivery of services to the homeless, disabled individuals and families, and others seeking services.

City staff meets with public officials, City departments, HATC, residents, and agencies to develop strategies for how best to invest grant funding to address discuss priority community needs. Staff met with the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), which acts as a liaison between the public, and the City Council concerning community needs. The Disability Advocacy Committee (DAC) has now become a part of the CAC. Therefore, City Staff has also met with the members of the DAC through meetings held with the CAC, to be advised on the needs of disabled persons in the community.

Discussion:

See above discussions.
181

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 46 | P a g e

Program Specific Requirements
AP-90 Program Specific Requirements – 91.220(l)(1,2,4)
Introduction:

In the event final CDBG and HOME program entitlement and program income is higher or lower than expected herein, the City of Visalia may add, subtract, or transfer amounts among identified projects, as noted without publishing a substantial amendment, if the amount is below 75 % change, as per the approved Citizens Participation Plan. Any difference in CDBG funding will be reflected in the public infrastructure/ADA project line item and, if needed, public services to maintain compliance with the 15% cap and Administration; any difference in HOME funding will be reflected in SHE CHDO Acq/Rehab/construct or reconstruct SF or MF projects, TBRA and if needed Administration. The three- year period (2020, 2021 & 2022) will be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income.

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

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% 182

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 47 | P a g e

HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME)
Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(2)

1. A description of other forms of investment being used beyond those identified in Section 92.205 is as follows:

No other form of investment shall be used beyond those identified in Section 92.205. 2. As it relates to the HOME funded owner-occupant Programs, all beneficiaries are owner occupants. As it relates to HOME funded rental programs, beneficiaries are tenants.

2. A description of the guidelines that will be used for resale or recapture of HOME funds when used for homebuyer activities as required in 92.254, is as follows:

First Time Homebuyer (FTHB), funds shall be provided as a Direct HOME subsidy- gap financing, as a second mortgage to households at or below 80% of the area median income. The property will maintain an affordability covenant as referenced under 24 CFR 92.254 (a) (4). The covenant shall remain for five (5) years when less than $15,000 is provided in gap financing Direct Subsidy to the homebuyer and shall be for a ten (10) year period when more than $15,000 up to $40,000 is provided in gap financing Direct Subsidy to the homebuyer. The “Owners Participation Agreement” (Covenant) shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. The Provision for the FTHB Program shall be “Recapture Provision” as per 24 CFR 92.254 (a) (5) (ii) (A) (1). The City may recapture the entire amount of the direct HOME assistance from the homeowner. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold. HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct HOME assistance, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds. This applies regardless of the nature of the sale (voluntary sales including short sales, and involuntary sales including foreclosures).

The SHE-CHDO Program utilizes the “Recapture Provision”. HOME funds are invested in the acquisition, rehabilitation, and/or new construction/reconstruction and Direct Subsidy shall be up to 10% of the total HOME investment (i.e., $280,000 acq. /Rehab cost X 10% = $28,000 Direct Subsidy to homebuyer), which shall be provided as a Second Mortgage to the qualifying new homebuyer. If the property is sold below fair market value, the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price is part of the HOME subsidy and provided directly to the homebuyer as a direct subsidy. In addition, any additional subsidy provided to the homebuyer to enable them to purchase the property, which includes down payment assistance, closing costs, interest subsidies, or other HOME assistance including any assistance that reduced the purchase price from fair market value to an affordable price, shall be recaptured.

A 30- year covenant shall be recorded to maintain affordability. The SHE-CHDO Program covenant shall use the “Recapture Provision”, as referenced under 24, CFR 92.254 (a) (5) (ii) (A) (1) and shall 183

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 48 | P a g e

begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. In the case of the homebuyer selling the home during the affordability period, the City may recapture the entire amount of the direct HOME Subsidy and the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price, if the purchase price is below the fair market value, and any additional assistance as referenced above. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold.

HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct HOME assistance, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds. This applies regardless of the nature of the sale (voluntary sales including short sales, and involuntary sales including foreclosures).

Note: Staff works with the City Attorney in updating legal documents to comply with the funding source and type of program(s) administered.

The FTHB, SHE-CHDO Program loan documents were reviewed in 2017 by HUD. No changes have been made to these policies. However, if HUD requests a copy for review, City Staff will again provide documents if required prior to implementing the program.

3. A description of the guidelines for resale or recapture that ensures the affordability of units acquired with HOME funds. See 24 CFR 92.254(a)(4) are as follows:

See Recapture provisions above.

4. Plans for using HOME funds to refinance existing debt secured by multifamily housing that is rehabilitated with HOME funds along with a description of the refinancing guidelines required that will be used under 24 CFR 92.206(b), are as follows:

This does not apply to Visalia. Please see discussion above.

184

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 49 | P a g e

Appendix “A” – Summary Detail

PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Summary Detail

Table A-1: PY 2022 Annual Action Plan
Resources: CDBG HOME
2022 Annual Allocation $ 1,300,000 $ 507,520 2022 Program Income 50,000 200,000 Prior Year Resources 1,834,163
Total 2022 CDBG and HOME Resources $ 3,184,163 $ 707,520 Expenditures:

Administration:

Administration $ 262,500 $ 70,750 Total Administration $ 262,500 $ 70,750 Public Services:

Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance $ 20,000 $ - Family Services Voucher Program 45,000 - Kings View PATH Program 35,000 - Fair Housing Education $ 7,500 $ - Total Public Services $ 107,500 $ - Affordable Housing:

Emergency Repair and ADA Program $ 50,000 $ - Senior Mobile Home Repair Program 100,000 - Code Enforcement 150,000 - The Lofts Project - 511,770 First Time Homebuyer Program $ - $ 125,000 Total Affordable Housing $ 300,000 $ 636,770 Public Facility Improvements:

ADA Compliance Projects $ 418,958 $ - Public Infrastructure Improvements/ADA Projects 40,000 - Navigation Center $ 2,055,205 $ - Total Public Facility Improvements $ 2,514,163 $ - Total 2022 CDBG and HOME Expenditures $ 3,184,163 $ 707,520

185

City of Visalia DRAFT PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment 50 | P a g e

Draft PY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Amendment Summary Detail

Table A-2: Draft PY 2022 CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
2022 Annual Allocation $ 1,183,482 $ - $ 1,183,482 2022 Program Income 50,000 150,000 200,000 Prior Year Resources 1,834,163 - 1,834,163 Total Resources $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
Administration $ 262,500 $ - $ 262,500 Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance 20,000 - 20,000 Family Services Voucher Program 45,000 - 45,000 Kings View PATH Program 35,000 - 35,000 Fair Housing Education 7,500 (7,500) - Emergency Repair and ADA Program 50,000 - 50,000 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program 100,000 - 100,000 Code Enforcement 150,000 - 150,000 ADA Compliance Projects - Tree Wells 342,440 157,500 499,940 Navigation Center Development 2,055,205 - 2,055,205 Total Expenditures $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645

Table A-3: Draft PY 2022 HOME Annual Action Plan Amendment Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
2022 HOME Allocation $ 546,791 $ - $ 546,791 2022 Program Income 200,000 - 200,000 Prior Year Funds - 120,000 120,000 Total Resources $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
HOME Admin $ 70,750 $ - $ 70,750 First Time Homebuyer Program 125,000 120,000 245,000 The Lofts Project 551,041 - 551,041 Total Expenditures $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791

186

City of Visalia

HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue
Plan Program (HOME-ARP) Allocation Plan
Draft Amendment
as an amendment to the 2021 Annual Action Plan

City of Visalia
Finance Department – Housing Division
707 West Acequia Avenue
Visalia, CA 93291
www.visalia.city
187

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 2 Table of Contents

Purpose of Amendment ................................................................................................................................ 3 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 3 Consultation .................................................................................................................................................. 3 Public Participation ....................................................................................................................................... 7 Needs Assessment and Gaps Analysis .......................................................................................................... 9 HOME-ARP Activities ................................................................................................................................... 16 HOME-ARP Production Housing Goals........................................................................................................ 18 Preferences ................................................................................................................................................. 19 HOME-ARP Refinancing Guidelines ............................................................................................................ 20 Appendices .................................................................................................................................................. 21 Appendix A: Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis Survey Results ......................................................... 21 Appendix B: 2020 Point in Time Count Results ....................................................................................... 30 Appendix C: Citizen Participation – Public Notices ................................................................................. 33 Appendix D: SF-424 Form ....................................................................................................................... 42 Appendix E: SF-424B Form ...................................................................................................................... 45 Appendix F: SF-424D Form ...................................................................................................................... 47 Appendix G: HOME-ARP Certifications ................................................................................................... 49

188

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 3 Purpose of Amendment
The Purpose of the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment is to provide Qualifying Populations preferences to people experiencing homelessness.

Introduction

The City of Visalia has been awarded $1,840,059 in HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assist people experiencing homelessness, at-risk of homelessness, and other vulnerable populations by providing housing, shelters, rental assistance, and/or supportive services to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability. HOME-ARP funds can be used for the following four eligible activities: 1) development of affordable rental housing, 2) non-congregated shelter units, 3) tenant based rental assistance, and/or 4) supportive services.

The HOME-ARP funds are required to be used to benefit individuals and families that meet the requirements for one or more “qualifying populations” (QPs). HOME-ARP qualifying populations include the following categories:

• Homeless,
• At-risk of homelessness,
• Fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, and
• Greatest risk of housing instability.

To receive funding, the City must develop and submit a HOME-ARP Allocation Plan as an amendment to the Program Year (PY) 2021 Annual Action Plan to HUD. The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan should describe the distribution of HOME-ARP funds and identify any preferences for eligible activities. The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan must also identify stakeholder consultation, and community engagement.

Consultation

Before developing its plan, the City must consult with the Continuum of Care (CoC) serving the jurisdiction’s geographic area, homeless and domestic violence service providers, veterans’ groups, public housing agencies (PHAs), public agencies that address the needs of the qualifying populations, and public or private organizations that address fair housing, civil rights, and the needs of persons with disabilities at a minimum.

Summarize the consultation process

The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was prepared in consultation with various organizations that serve the qualifying populations. These consulted agencies have expertise and 189

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 4 knowledge to identify the needs, service gaps, and required activities that would best benefit the qualifying populations. Organizations consulted include homeless and domestic violence service providers, a veterans’ group, public housing agencies (PHAs), and various public agencies that address the needs of the qualifying populations, fair housing, civil rights, and the needs of persons with disabilities.

A Community Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis was conducted commencing on November 18, 2021, through December 20, 2021. The City conducted a Community Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis survey and held four virtual forums with community service provider that serve the qualifying populations to gather valuable input in the use of HOME- ARP funds. The Community Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis Survey asked various organizations and local citizens to rank the four eligible uses of HOME-ARP funding by priority. The four eligible activities include:

• Development of Affordable Rental Housing
• Non-Congregate Shelter Units (NCS)
• Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)
• Supportive Services

Survey responses identified the development of affordable housing as the top priority for HOME-ARP funding as shown below.

The four virtual community service provider forums conducted gathered valuable information and provided robust discussions regarding the best use of HOME-ARP funds.

Majority of the service providers consulted also agreed that development of affordable rental housing was the top priority for the qualifying populations and the clients they 0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Affordable Rental
Housing
Non-Congregated
Shelter Units
Tenant-Based Rental
Assistance
Supportive Services
Which do you feel is most needed in Visalia?
190

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 5 directly serve. Feedback provided from each organization consulted is shown below in Table 1: Agencies/Organization Consulted.

Homeless service providers confirmed one-bedroom or studios units are the most needed as this specific population does not do well in a roommate setting. Domestic violence and human trafficking service providers confirmed that domestic violence victims with children have available housing resources, and that the most urgent need is for more one-bedroom or studio units for those single adults fleeing domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or human trafficking. Tenant-based rental assistance service providers have also confirmed the highest need for those at greatest risk of housing instability or at risk of homelessness that are at or below 30% of the area median income is also additional affordable rental units. Consultation with service providers also indicated that the qualifying populations need ongoing case management prior to, and up to 2-years after, housing placement to ensure long-term housing stability and prevent reverting back to homelessness.

List the organizations consulted, and summarize the feedback received from these entities.

Table 1: Agencies/Organizations Consulted
Agency/Organizations
Consulted
Type of
Agency/Organizations
Method of
Consultation Feedback
Kings Tulare Homeless
Alliance
Continuum of Care Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

Affordable rental housing for
studio or 1-bedroom units for
homeless individuals are most
needed. Homeless individuals
require at least 2 years of case
management after housing
placement to ensure housing
stability.

Housing Authority of
Tulare County
Public Housing
Authority
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

Affordable rental housing for 1-
and 2-bedroom units are needed
for homeless and at-risk of
homelessness. There is a lack of
available units and landlords
willing to house homeless and
section 8 tenants.

Visalia Homeless
Center
Homeless service
provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More permanent supportive
housing units are needed to house
people experiencing homelessness
in transitional and emergency
shelters.

Turning Point of
Central California
Homeless and youth
service provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More emergency shelter beds are
needed.
191

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 6 Visalia Rescue Mission Homeless service
provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More 1-bedroom permanent
supportive housing units and
supportive services are needed.

Kings View PATH
Program
Homeless service
provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More affordable 1-bedroom rental
housing units are needed and
emergency shelter. Ongoing case
management is needed, before
and after housing placement.

United Way of Tulare
County
At-risk of homeless
service provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

Rental assistance is needed due
to the pandemic for at-risk of
homelessness families.

Community Services
Employment Training
(CSET
Employment,
Training, and housing
service provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

Permanent supportive housing
and rapid rehousing units are
needed. Landlords are now
requesting rent increases over
10%. Homeless individuals need
access to mental health and
drugs/alcohol recovery services.

Family Services of
Tulare County
Domestic violence
(DV) and homeless
service provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

DV victims with children have
housing resources. DV victims
without any children need 1-
bedroom units. Case management
needed before and after housing
placement. TBRA is hard to spend
due to lack of affordable units.

Central California
Legal Services
legal, fair housing,
civil rights, and tenant
rights services
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

Most needed is permanent
affordable rental housing. There
are not enough affordable rental
units. Rents are too high.

Veterans Service
Office
Veteran services Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

There is a lack of affordable units.

Lack of landlords that are willing
to house VASH, section 8
vouchers, and homeless
population. Landlords of available
units are investors that are
seeking the highest dollar amount.

Salt n Light Homeless service
provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More 1-bedroom permanent
supportive housing units and
supportive services are needed.

Tulare County Health
& Human Services
Mental Health service
provider
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More 1-bedroom permanent
affordable rental housing units are
needed.
192

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 7 Eden House Bridge housing for
people experiencing
homelessness.

Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More studio or 1-bedroom
permanent affordable rental
housing and supportive services
(i.e., credit repair & job training).

Elevate Community
Services
Manages housing
programs for people
experiencing
homelessness
Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

Tenant-based rental assistance is
very difficult to spend. There is so
many funds that go unused each
year. The need is for affordable
studio or 1-bedroom units.

Citizens Advisory
Committee
Citizens Advocacy Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More affordable rental housing is
needed.

Disability Advocacy
Committee
Disability Advocacy Meeting and Needs
Assessment & Gap
Analysis survey.

More affordable rental housing is
needed.

Public Participation

Describe the public participation process, including information about the dates of the public comment period and public hearing(s) held during the development of the plan:
• Public Comment Period: Start date: 3/18/2022 End date: 4/18/2022 • Public Hearings: 12/20/2021, 4/4/22, and 4/18/22
Describe the public participation process, including information about the dates of the public comment period and public hearing(s) held during the development of the plan Amendment:
• Public Comment Period: Start date: 3/17/2023 End date: 4/17/2023 • Public Hearings: 4/3/23, and 4/17/23
Development of Plan: The City of Visalia held a public hearing on December 20, 2021, at 7:00pm at the Visalia Council Chambers, during the development of the plan to gather public input on the use of HOME-ARP funds and potential eligible activities. A public notice was published in the Visalia Times Delta on November 19, 2021, in English and Spanish.

Public notices were also posted at City locations, City website, and on City social media outlets. Public notices were also published in the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv, which is received by over 330 individuals that serve the qualifying populations.

Public Comment Period: The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan public comment period was from March 18, 2022, through April 18, 2022. Public hearings during the public comment 193

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 8 period were schedule for April 4, 2022, and April 18, 2022. A public notice was published in the Visalia Times Delta on March 18, 2022, and April 1, 2022.

The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment public comment period was from March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023. Public hearings during the public comment period are scheduled for April 3, 2023, and April 17, 2023. A community meet is scheduled for April 5, 2023. A public notice was published in English and Spanish in the Visalia Times Delta on March 15, 2023, March 17, 2023, and March 31, 2023.

Describe any efforts to broaden public participation:

The City took several steps to broaden public participation in the development of the HOME ARP Allocation Plan. The City conducted a Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis survey that was available to the public on the City’s website and social media outlets to allow citizens to submit their comments on the use of HOME-ARP funds. The City translated all public notices into Spanish to encourage Spanish speaking citizens participation. The City also offer ADA accommodations on all public notices and during all meetings.

During the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan public comment period from March 18, 2022, through April 18, 2022. A community meeting to review the draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was held on April 6, 2022, at 5:30pm at the Citizens and Disability Advocacy Committee. Two public hearing were held to allow public input on April 4, 2022, and April 18, 2022, at 7:00pm. Public hearings were held in person and available for live virtual viewing. English and Spanish public notices was published in the Visalia Times Delta on March 15, March 18, and April 1, 2022. English and Spanish public notices were posted at various City locations, and City social media outlets to broaden public participation. The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was available for public review on the City website at www.visalia.city. Public notices were also posted in the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance listserv, which is received by over 330 individuals that serve the qualifying populations.

The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment public comment period is from March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023. A public hearing is scheduled for April 3, 2023 at 7:00pm, a community meeting is scheduled for April 5, 2023 at 5:30pm, and a final public hearing is scheduled for April 17, 2023. The community meeting and public hearings encourage public participation to review and provide input on the draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment. Public notices were also published in the Visalia Times Delta on March 15, March 17, and March 31, 2023 to broaden public participation. Public notices were also posted at various city offices, the City website, and across all City social media outlets. The draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment was posted on the City of Visalia website at www.visalia.city during the 30-day public comment period. 194

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 9 Summarize the comments and recommendations received through the public participation process:

No comments were received during the public comment period or during public hearings.

HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment comments and recommendations received through the public participation process will be included at the conclusion of the 30-day public comment period.

Summarize any comments or recommendations not accepted and state the reasons why:

No public comments or recommendations were not accepted.

Needs Assessment and Gaps Analysis

The City utilized several sources to complete the Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis section of the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan. Sources include the most recent Point in Time Count conducted in 2020, Continuum of Care Housing Inventory Count (HIC) 2021, American Community Survey (ACS) 2019 5-year estimates, Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data set from 2014-2018, as well as direct consultation with local community partners. Table 2: Homeless Needs Inventory and Gap Analysis and Table 3:Housing Needs Inventory and Gap Analysis below illustrate the Homeless and Housing Needs Inventory and Gap Analysis.

Table 2: Homeless Needs Inventory and Gap Analysis Table

Table 3: Housing Needs Inventory and Gap Analysis Table 195

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 10 Describe the size and demographic composition of qualifying populations within the PJ’s boundaries.

HUD requires HOME-ARP funds to be used to benefit the individuals and families specified in HOME-ARP “qualifying populations”. Qualifying populations include the following categories:
• Homeless as defined in 24 CFR 91.5
• At-risk of Homelessness as defined in 24 CFR 91.5
• Fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, as defined by HUD
• Greatest risk of housing instability – Other Populations where providing supportive services or assistance under section 212(a) of NAHA (42 U.SC. 12742(a)) would prevent the family’s homelessness or would serve those at greatest risk of housing instability. HUD defines these populations as individuals and households who do not qualify under any of the populations above.

Homeless Populations

According to the Point-in-Time (PIT) count report conducted on January 22, 2020, there were 540 people experiencing homelessness in the City of Visalia. The report reflected that 17% of the population were in an emergency shelter, 25% of the population were transitional housing, and 58% of the population were living in an unsheltered location.

Those that have been homeless for over a year consist of 22% of the population.

The age demographics are as follows: children ages 0-17 are 9% of the population, ages 18- 24 are 6% of the population, ages 25-34 are 18% of the population, ages 35-44 are 27% of the population, ages 45-54 are 20% of the population, ages 55-64 are 16% of the 196

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 11 population, ages 65-69 are 2% of the population, and ages 70 and above are 1% of the population. According to the 2020 Point-in-Time count, 62% of the homeless population identified as male, and 38% of the homeless population identified as female.

The 2020 Point-in-Time counts reflected race demographics as follows: White as 83% of the population, African American as 7% of the population, American Indian or Alaska Native as 6% of the population, Asian as 1% of the population, Pacific Islander as 1% of the population, and multi-racial as 3% if the population. Ethnicity demographics reflected Non- Hispanic/Latino as 24% of the population, and Hispanic/Latino as 45% of the population.

The reasons for being homeless were reported as unemployment for 20% of the population, an argument for 15% of the population, drugs, or alcohol for 12% of the population, mental health for 9% of the population, divorce for 9% of the population, domestic violence for 7% of the population, a medical condition for 5% of the population, eviction for 5% of the population, no affordable housing for 4%, jail or prison for 4%, and being refused housing for 2%. Barriers include mental illness for 38% of the population, physical disability for 27%, substance abuse for 30%, chronic health condition for 11%, and development disability for 10% of the population. According to the report, 48% of the population have a disabling condition. Those currently fleeing domestic violence consist of 10% of the population, and veterans consist of 6% of the population.

The benefits received are as follows: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is received by 34% of the population, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) by 5% of the population, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) by 4% of the population, earned income by 1% of the population, pension by 1% of the population, child support by 1% of the population, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) by 1% of the population.

At-Risk of Homelessness

HUD defines those at risk of homelessness as individuals or families who have an annual income at or below 30% of the area median income level, do not have sufficient resources or support networks available to prevent them from to an emergency shelter or into homelessness, and live with an instability such as moving two or more times during the last 60-days due to economic reasons, live in the home of another due to economic hardship, or have been notified in writing that their right to occupy their current housing will be terminated. According to HUD’s 2014-2018 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data, families at or below 30% of the area median income are 4,170 or 10% of the owner and renter population within the City of Visalia as shown below in Table 4: Income Distribution Overview, and 3,485 families have at least 1 of 4 housing problems as shown below in Table 5: Income by Housing Problem (Owners and Rents).

Table 4: Income Distribution Overview
Income Distribution Overview Owner Renter Total %
Household Income <= 30% HAMFI 1,560 2,610 4,170 10%
Household Income >30% to <=50% HAMFI 1,545 2,985 4,530 11% Household Income >50% to <=80% HAMFI 3,130 2,750 5,880 14% 197

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 12 Household Income >80% to <=100% HAMFI 2,085 1,650 3,735 9% Household Income >100% HAMFI 17,145 6,740 23,885 57%
Total 25,470 16,740 42,210 100%
Data Source: 2014-2018 CHAS (Most Recent Year)

Table 5: Income by Housing Problems (Owners and Renters) Income by Housing Problems
(Owners and Renters)
Household has
at least 1 of 4
Housing
Problems
Household has none of 4
Housing Problems OR cost
burden not available no
other problems Total
Household Income <= 30% HAMFI 3,485 690 4,170
Household Income >30% to <=50% HAMFI 3,665 870 4,530
Household Income >50% to <=80% HAMFI 4,060 1,825 5,880
Household Income >80% to <=100% HAMFI 1,700 2,035 3,735 Household Income >100% HAMFI 3,165 20,715 23,885
Total 16,070 26,140 42,210
Data Source: 2014-2018 CHAS (Most Recent Year)

Fleeing or Attempting to Flee Domestic Violence or Human Trafficking

According to local domestic violence service providers, domestic violence victim demographics for Fiscal Year 2020 and 2021 reported 89% of domestic violence victims are identified as female and 11% of DV victims are identified as male. 100% of domestic violence victims are considered extremely low income at or below 30% of the area median income level. Female head of households consists of 4% of the population, and 2% of the population are experiencing homelessness. Local domestic violence and human trafficking service provider Family Services of Tulare County stated that there are housing units available for victims with children. Family Services stated that the domestic violence and human trafficking victims without children are need of one-bedroom or studio units.

The age demographics for domestic violence victims are as follows: ages 18-24 are 16% of the population, ages 25-34 are 34% of the population, 35-44 are 30% of the population, ages 45-54 are 13% of the population, and ages 55 and above are 7% of the population.

Domestic violence victims race demographics are as follows: White individuals are 37% of the population, African American individuals are 0% of the population, Asian individuals are 1% of the population, multi-racial individuals are 12% if the population, and individuals of unknown race are 49% of the population. Ethnicity demographics reflected Non-Hispanic/Latino individuals constituted 59% of the population, and Hispanic/Latino individuals constituted 41% of the population.

Greatest Risk of Housing Instability

The City’s greatest risk of housing instability is associated with those within the 30% of the area median income level and experiencing severe cost burden, such as paying more than 198

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 13 50% of monthly household income toward housing costs as shown below in Table 6:

Income by Cost Burden. A majority of those that are at greatest risk of housing instability within our jurisdiction are White and Hispanic/Latino. Many of the City’s greatest risk of housing instability is associated with those that were previously homeless that are currently receiving temporary tenant-based rental assistance and may revert to homelessness once the rental assistance ends. Service providers that provide temporary tenant-based rental assistant to the qualifying population, indicated this population is need of permanent supportive affordable rental housing.

Table 6: Income by Cost Burden
Income by Cost Burden (Owners and Renters) Cost burden > 30% Cost burden > 50% Total Household Income <= 30% HAMFI 3,460 2,885 4,170
Household Income >30% to <=50% HAMFI 3,565 2,045 4,530
Household Income >50% to <=80% HAMFI 3,760 690 5,880
Household Income >80% to <=100% HAMFI 1,480 150 3,735
Household Income >100% HAMFI 2,220 350 23,885
Total 14,485 6,125 42,210
Data Source: 2014-2018 CHAS (Most Recent Year)

Describe the unmet housing and service needs of qualifying populations, including but not limited to:
• Sheltered and unsheltered homeless populations;
• Those currently housed populations at risk of homelessness; • Other families requiring services or housing assistance or to prevent homelessness; and
• Those at greatest risk of housing instability or in unstable housing situation.

Sheltered and unsheltered homeless populations

The Local Continuum of Care, the Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance conducts a Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. The PIT Count is an annual census and survey to identify the sheltered and unsheltered homeless population across the County. This count is required for all recipients of HUD funding. The PIT Count takes place during the final week of January each year. The most recent PIT Count reported 312 people slept in an unsheltered location, 94 people slept in an emergency shelter, and 134 people slept in transitional housing. The PIT Count clearly shows there are not enough permeant supportive housing units for both sheltered and unsheltered homeless populations.

Those currently housed populations at risk of homelessness

HUD defines those at risk of homelessness as households who have an income at or below 30% of the area median income (AMI), who does not have sufficient resources or support networks to prevent them from moving to an emergency shelter or becoming homeless; and meets one of the following conditions:
199

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 14 • Has moved because of economic reasons two or more times during the 60 days preceding the application for homelessness prevention assistance; • Is living in the home of another because of economic hardship; • Has been notified in writing that their right to occupy their current housing will be terminated within 21 days after the date of application for assistance; • Lives in a hotel or motel and the cost of the hotel or motel stay is not paid by charitable organizations or by federal, State, or local government programs for low- income individuals;
• Lives in a single-room occupancy or efficiency apartment unit in which there reside more than two persons or lives in a larger housing unit in which there reside more than 1.5 people per room; or
• Is exiting a publicly funded institution, or system of care (such as a health-care facility, a mental health facility, foster care or other youth facility, or correction program or institution).

The HUD Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) 2014-2018 data Table 5 shows 3,485 households at or below 30% of the area median income has at least 1 housing related problem.

Other families requiring services or housing assistance or to prevent homelessness

Findings from the Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis conducted show the greatest needs are for other families requiring services or housing assistance or to prevent homelessness is development of additional permanent affordable rental housing shown in Appendix A – Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis Survey Results. The City currently funds a subsistence payment program that provides emergency rental and/or utility assistance to prevent homelessness. The City also currently funds a tenant-based rental assistance to assist low- income families with up to 24-months of rental assistance.

Those at greatest risk of housing instability or in unstable housing situation

Those at the greatest risk of housing instability or in unstable housing situation are often low-income and has annual income at or below 30% AMI and is experiencing severe cost burden (i.e., is paying more than 50% of monthly household income toward housing costs); or has an annual income at or below 50% AMI and meets of the conditions of “At risk of homelessness” as defined in 24 CFR 91.5.

The Housing Authority of Tulare County (HATC) currently owns and manages 179 public housing units in Visalia and manages another 764 affordable housing units through the City of Visalia. HATC will continue to own and manages 179 public housing units in the City.

HATC also owns and manages an additional 764 affordable housing units. HATC acquired vacant land at 830 E. Roosevelt Ave., Visalia to develop a mulit-family development, with a total of four (4) units for rental to qualified low-income households. HATC also administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. The Housing Authority of Tulare County is committed to providing affordable housing to those at greatest risk of housing instability. 200

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 15 Identify and consider the current resources available to assist qualifying populations, including congregate and non-congregate shelter units, supportive services, TBRA, and affordable housing and permanent supportive rental housing.

• Congregate Shelter: The City is in the process of developing a 100-bed Low-Barrier Navigation Center congregate shelter public facility with the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA), and Housing Successor Agency (SAH) funds that will provide congregated shelter beds for those experiencing homelessness, including those fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking

• Non-Congregated Shelter: There is currently a 50-unit non-congregate shelter project at Sequoia Village within the City of Visalia for experiencing homelessness, including those fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking.

• Supportive Services: The City also currently funds a variety of supportive service programs with the use of the CDBG public service funds for the four qualifying populations.

o Supportive services for individuals experiencing homelessness and fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking includes case management services, housing search assistance, landlord issue mitigation, transportation assistance, clothing assistance, food assistance, and security/utility deposits.

o Supportive services for those at-risk of homelessness and greatest risk of housing instability includes a subsistence payment program to provide emergency rental assistance to prevent eviction, and utility assistance to prevention utility cutoff.

• Tenant-Based Rental Assistance: The City currently funds a Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program up to 24 months of rental assistance for individuals or households experiencing homelessness, and/or fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking with the use of HOME entitlement funds. Each year TBRA funds are significantly underspent due to a lack of affordable rental units.

• Permanent Supportive Rental Housing: The City is currently planning to construct the Lofts Project that will provide 40 permanent supportive rental housing units to the qualifying populations. The Lofts project is expected to be completed in Fiscal Year 2024.

Identify any gaps within the current shelter and housing inventory as well as the service delivery system:
201

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 16 According to the Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis survey and consultation with local providers, the largest gap within the current shelter and housing inventory is a lack of available one-bedroom affordable rental housing and/or permanent supportive housing units for the qualifying populations. The City has a gap between the number of affordable rental housing and permanent supportive housing units available and those qualifying individuals that are in need of housing. The current pandemic has added to the affordable rental housing shortage, as rents continue to rise making less affordable housing units available for the qualifying populations.

Identify the characteristics of housing associated with instability and an increased risk of homelessness if the PJ will include such conditions in its definition of “other populations” as established in the HOME-ARP Notice:

The City does not plan to formally adopt a definition of “other populations”.

Identify priority needs for the qualifying populations:

The priority needs identified through the recent HOME-ARP Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis survey, consultation, and public hearing remain consistent with those identified through the Community Needs Assessment developed for the City’s 2022-2024 five-year Consolidated Plan. That concludes there is an overall need for additional affordable rental housing and permanent supportive housing for the qualifying populations.

Explain how the level of need and gaps in its shelter and housing inventory and service delivery systems based on the data presented in the plan were determined:

The level of need and gaps in shelter, housing inventory, and service delivery systems were determined using data from multiple sources as well as personal consultation with services providers. The need for affordable rental housing was determined by evaluating data sources, HOME-ARP survey results, service provider input, and public hearing input which supports the need for development of affordable rental housing.

HOME-ARP Activities

Describe the method for soliciting applications for funding and/or selecting developers, service providers, subrecipients and/or contractors and whether the City will administer eligible activities directly:

The City released a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit potential developers, subrecipients, and/or a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) to develop permanent affordable rental housing open to all HOME-ARP qualifying populations.

Respondents to the RFP were strongly encouraged to include wrap around supportive services, such as case management services and job assistance placement to assist in tenant’s long-term housing stability.
202

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 17 If any portion of the City’s HOME-ARP administrative funds were provided to a subrecipient or contractor prior to HUD’s acceptance of the HOME-ARP allocation plan because the subrecipient or contractor is responsible for the administration of the City’s entire HOME-ARP grant, identify the subrecipient or contractor and describe its role and responsibilities in administering all of the City’s HOME-ARP program:

The City has not, and does not plan to, allocate administrative funds to a subrecipient or contractor for the administration of the entire HOME-ARP grant.

The City must indicate the amount of HOME-ARP funding that is planned for each eligible HOME-ARP activity type and demonstrate that any planned funding for nonprofit organization operating assistance, nonprofit capacity building, and administrative costs is within HOME-ARP limits. The following table may be used to meet this requirement.

Table 7: Use of HOME-ARP Funding

Additional narrative, if appliable:

The City’s total allowable HOME-ARP administration amount was $92,002.95; however, the City has decided to transfer $51,943.95 of this amount to activity delivery to increase funding for the development of affordable rental housing. The City is also planning to leverage City Housing Successor Agency (SAH) funds in the amount of $900,000 to be used in conjunction with HOME-ARP funds for the development of affordable rental housing for HOME-ARP qualifying populations. This will provide a substantial amount of funding to increase the impact of the project.

Describe how the characteristics of the shelter and housing inventory, service delivery system, and the needs identified in the gap analysis provided a rational for the plan to fund eligible activities:
203

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 18 The Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis identified the need for affordable rental housing as the top priority for the qualifying population. The second top priority identified was the need for additional shelter units. However, a 100-bed Low-Barrier Navigation Center is planned to be developed with the use of CDBG, PLHA, and SAH funds within the City. In addition, tenant-based rental assistance is difficult to expense due to a lack of affordable rental units for the qualifying population. As a result, the City has selected to utilize HOME- ARP funds for the development of affordable rental housing for the most vulnerable population. The City will support organizations that will develop affordable rental housing, in conjunction with providing supportive services to help eligible participants maintain long-term housing-stability.

HOME-ARP Production Housing Goals

Estimate the number of affordable rental housing units for qualifying populations that the City will produce or support with its HOME-ARP allocation:

The City estimates that at-least eleven (11) affordable rental units will be added to the current housing inventory using HOME-ARP funds. The City also estimates an additional $900,000 in Successor Agency Housing funds will be available to assist in the development of HOME-ARP affordable rental housing units, increasing the number of affordable housing units produced for the qualifying populations.

HOME-ARP Allocation Amendment
The City estimates to add 42 affordable rental units to the current housing inventory using HOME-ARP funds.

Describe the specific affordable rental housing production goal that the PJ hopes to achieve and describe how it will address the PJ’s priority needs:

According to the HOME-ARP Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis survey, consultant, public hearing, and the most recent Point in Time Count, the priority need is the development of additional affordable rental housing or parament supportive housing for the qualifying population in conjunction with supportive services. The City anticipates awarding a contract to a qualified non-profit organization or developer that leverages additional funding sources to the HOME-ARP project for the construction or rehabilitation of no less than eleven (11) one-bedroom and/or studio units for the qualifying populations with a minimum 20-year affordability period for the production of affordable rental housing.

204

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 19 HOME-ARP Allocation Amendment
The City released an RFP for the development of affordable rental housing with the use of HOME-ARP funds. The RFP was awarded to RH Community Builders for the conversion of a 42-unit motel into Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) units, known as the Majestic Project. The Majestic Project will provide 42 PSH units to the qualifying populations with wrap around supportive services, including on-site case management, financial literacy, and linkage to job training programs to ensure tenant’s long-term stability.

Preferences

Identify whether the City intends to give preference to one or more qualifying populations or a subpopulation within one or more qualifying populations for any eligible activity or project:
• Preferences cannot violate any applicable fair housing, civil rights, and nondiscrimination requirements, including but not limited to those requirements listed in 24 CFR 5.105(a). • The City is not required to describe specific projects to which the preferences will apply.

The City does not intend to give preference to one or more qualifying populations or subpopulations.

HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment
The City’s HOME-ARP Allocation Amendment includes providing preferences to people experiencing homelessness based on the Community Needs Assessment identifying homelessness as the target population with the highest need for affordable housing.

If a preference was identified, explain how the use of funds of a preference or method of prioritization will address the unmet need or gap in benefits and services received by individuals and families in the qualifying population or category of qualifying population, consistent with the City’s needs assessment and gap analysis:

The City does not intend to give preference to one or more qualifying populations or subpopulations.

HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Amendment
The City intends to give preference to people experiencing homelessness, although all qualifying populations will be considered eligible.

If a preference was identified, describe how the City will use HOME-ARP funds to address the unmet needs or gaps in benefits and services of the other qualifying populations that are not included in the preference:
205

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 20 The City does not intend to give preference to one or more qualifying populations or subpopulations.

HOME-ARP Allocation Amendment
Although preferences will be given to people experiencing homelessness, the other qualifying populations will still be considered eligible. The City will also utilize HOME funds to development HOME assisted units for the following qualifying populations: at-risk of homelessness; fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking; and greatest risk of housing instability with annual income less than 30% of the area median income (AMI) and is experiencing severe cost burden (i.e., paying more than 50% of monthly household income toward housing costs), and annual income less than 50% of the AMI and meets one of the conditions of “At risk of homelessness” as defined in 24 CFR 91.5(iii).

HOME-ARP Refinancing Guidelines

The City does not intend to use HOME-ARP funds to refinance existing debt secured by multifamily rental housing or insured by any federal program, including CDBG.

206

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 21 Appendices
Appendix A: Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis Survey Results

207

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 22 208

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 23 209

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 24 210

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 25 211

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 26 212

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 27 213

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 28 214

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 29 215

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 30 Appendix B: 2020 Point in Time Count Results

216

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 31 217

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 32 218

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 33 Appendix C: Citizen Participation – Public Notices

CITY OF VISALIA | Public Notice of HOME
Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan
(HOME-ARP) Community Needs Assessment

The City of Visalia has been awarded $1,840,059 in HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assist people experiencing homelessness, at-risk of homelessness, and other vulnerable populations by providing housing, shelters, rental assistance, and/or supportive services to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability.

Make Your Voice Heard: The City of Visalia is seeking public input for eligible HOME-ARP activities-based on community needs and housing resource gaps. Public and stakeholder input is critical to developing priorities and goals for the use of HOME-ARP funds. Eligible activities that may be funded with HOME-ARP funds include Affordable Rental Housing, Single Room Occupancy Shelters, Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, and Supportive Services.

Survey: Please take our survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/HOME-ARP-NeedsAssessment to identify community needs and housing resource gaps to prioritize HOME-ARP activities. Please note the survey will close on December 3, 2021.

Public Hearing: The following public hearing will be held to provide additional public comment on the use of HOME-ARP funds:

Visalia City Council - Public Hearing
Council Chambers
707 W. Acequia Ave. Visalia, CA 93291
December 20, 2021, at 7:00pm

If you are unable to attend, you may submit your comments in writing to Margie Perez, Housing Specialist at [email protected]. The public hearing will also be available for virtual live viewing at https://visalia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

In Compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings call (559) 713-4512 48-hours in advance of the meeting. For Hearing Impaired call (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48-hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time to request services.

Published: 11/19/21

219

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 34 CIUDAD DE VISALIA | Aviso público sobre la
evaluación de las necesidades de la comunidad del plan
de rescate estadounidense de la asociación de inversión

HOME (HOME-ARP)

La ciudad de Visalia recibió $ 1,840,059 en fondos del Plan de rescate estadounidense de HOME Investment Partnership (HOME-ARP), del Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de EE. UU. (HUD) para ayudar personas sin hogar, en riesgo de quedarse sin hogar, y otras poblaciones vulnerables por proporcionar vivienda, abrigos, asistencia de alquiler, y/o servicios de apoyo para reducir la falta de vivienda y aumentar la estabilidad de la vivienda.

Haga que se escuche su voz: La ciudad de Visalia está buscando la opinión del público para las actividades elegibles de HOME-ARP basadas en las necesidades de la comunidad y las brechas de recursos de vivienda. Los comentarios del público y de las partes interesadas son fundamentales para desarrollar prioridades y metas para el uso de los fondos de HOME-ARP. Las actividades elegibles de HOME-ARP incluyen viviendas de alquiler asequibles, ocupación de habitación individual, asistencia de alquiler y servicios de apoyo.

Encuesta: Favor de responder a nuestra encuesta a www.surveymonkey.com/r/HOME-ARP- NeedsAssessment para identificar las necesidades de la comunidad y las brechas de recursos de vivienda para priorizar las actividades de HOME-ARP. Tenga en cuenta que la encuesta finaliza el 3 de diciembre de 2021.

Audiencia Pública: Se llevará a cabo la siguiente audiencia pública para obtener información adicional del público para el uso de los fondos de HOME-ARP:

Ayuntamiento - Audiencia Pública
Cámaras del Consejo
707 W. Acequia Ave. Visalia, CA 93291
20 de diciembre de 2021, a las 7:00 pm
Si no puede asistir, puede enviar sus comentarios por escrito a Margie Perez, Especialista en Vivienda a [email protected]. La audiencia pública también estará disponible para visualización virtual en vivo en https://visalia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

De conformidad con la Ley de Discapacidades de los Estados Unidos, si necesita asistencia especial para participar en las reuniones, llame al (559) 713-4512 48 horas antes de la reunión. Para personas con problemas de audición, llame al (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48 horas antes de la hora de reunión programada para solicitar servicios.

Publicado: 11/19/21
220

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 35 221

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 36 CITY OF VISALIA | Public Notice of the Draft
2022 Annual Action Plan and 2021 Action Plan Amendment
Review and Comment Period: March 18, 2022 – April 18, 2022

Notice is hereby given that the City of Visalia is seeking input on the draft Program Year (PY) 2022 Annual Action Plan and PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the draft HOME Investment Partnership American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) Allocation Plan. The public comment period for the draft PY 2022 Annual Action Plan and PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the HOME-ARP Allocation Plan is March 18, 2022 – April 18, 2022. The draft PY 2022 Annual Action Plan and 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan is available for public review on the City’s website at www.visalia.city/depts/finance/housing_n_cdbg_services/public_notices.asp.

Staff invites you to attend a community meeting and/or public hearing:

• Community Meeting – April 6, 2022, at 5:30pm at 220 N. Santa Fe, Visalia • Public Hearing – April 4, 2022, at 7:00pm at 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia • Public Hearing – April 18, 2022, at 7:00pm at 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia

If you are unable to attend, you may submit your comments in writing to Margie Perez, Housing Specialist at [email protected]. The public hearing will also be available for virtual live viewing at https://visalia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

In Compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings call (559) 713-4512 48-hours in advance of the meeting. For Hearing Impaired call (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48-hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time to request services.

Published: 3/15/22, 3/18/22 and 4/1/22

222

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 37 223

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 38 CIUDAD DE VISALIA | Aviso público del borrador de la ciudad de Visalia Plan de acción anual de 2022 y modificación del plan de acción de 2021 Período de revisión y comentario: 18 de marzo de 2022 - 18 de abril de 2022

Por la presente se notifica que la ciudad de Visalia está buscando información sobre el borrador del Plan de Acción Anual del Año del Programa (PY) 2022 y la Enmienda del Plan de Acción PY 2021, incluido el borrador del Plan de Asignación del Programa del Plan de Rescate Americano de la Asociación de Inversión HOME (HOME-ARP). El período de comentarios públicos para el borrador del Plan de acción anual PY 2022 y la Enmienda del Plan de acción PY 2021, incluido el Plan de asignación HOME-ARP, es del 18 de marzo de 2022 al 18 de abril de 2022. El borrador del Plan de Acción Anual PY 2022 y la Enmienda del Plan de Acción 2021, incluido el borrador del Plan de Asignación HOME-ARP, están disponibles para revisión pública en el sitio web de la Ciudad en www.visalia.city/depts/finance/housing_n_cdbg_services/public_notices.asp.

El personal lo invita a asistir a una reunión comunitaria y/o audiencia pública:
• Reunión comunitaria: 6 de abril de 2022 a las 5:30 p. m. en 220 N. Santa Fe, Visalia • Audiencia pública: 4 de abril de 2022 a las 7:00 p. m. en 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia • Audiencia pública: 18 de abril de 2022, a las 7:00 p. m. en 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia

Si no puede asistir, puede enviar sus comentarios por escrito a Margie Perez, especialista en vivienda a [email protected]. La audiencia pública también estará disponible para visualización virtual en vivo en https://visalia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

En cumplimiento con la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades, si necesita asistencia especial para participar en las reuniones, llame al (559) 713-4512 48 horas antes de la reunión. Para personas con discapacidad auditiva, llame al (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48 horas antes de la hora de la reunión programada para solicitar servicios.

Publicado: 3/15/22, 3/18/22, y 4/1/22

224

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 39 225

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 40 CITY OF VISALIA | Public Notice of the Draft
2023 Annual Action Plan, 2022 Action Plan Amendment,
and 2021 Action Plan Amendment including HOME-ARP
Allocation Plan Amendment
Review and Comment Period: March 17, 2023 – April 17, 2023

Notice is hereby given that the City of Visalia is seeking input on the draft Program Year (PY) 2023 Annual Action Plan, PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, PY 2022 Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) Action Plan Amendment, and PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) Allocation Plan Amendment.

The 30-day public comment period is March 17, 2023 – April 17, 2023. The draft plans are available for public review on the City’s website at
www.visalia.city/depts/finance/housing_n_cdbg_services/public_notices.asp.

Staff invites you to attend a community meeting and/or public hearing:

• Public Hearing – April 3, 2023, at 7:00pm at 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia • Community Meeting – April 5, 2023, at 5:30pm at 220 N. Santa Fe, Visalia • Public Hearing – April 17, 2023, at 7:00pm at 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia

If you are unable to attend a meeting, you may submit your comments in writing to Margie Perez, Housing Specialist at [email protected].

In Compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings call (559) 713-4512 48-hours in advance of the meeting. For Hearing Impaired call (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48-hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time to request services.

Published 3/15/23, 3/17/23, and 3/31/23

226

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 41 CIUDAD DE VISALIA | Aviso público para el plan de acción propuesto para 2023 Enmiendas al Plan de Acción 2022 y Enmienda al Plan de Acción 2021 incluida modificación del Plan de asignación HOME-ARP
Período de revisión y comentarios: 17 de marzo de 2023 - 17 de abril de 2023

Por la presente se notifica que la ciudad de Visalia está buscando información sobre el borrador del Plan de Acción Anual del Año del Programa (PY) 2023, la Enmienda del Plan de Acción PY 2022, la Enmienda del Plan de Acción PY 2022 Programa de Estabilización de Barrios (NSP), y la Enmienda del Plan de Acción PY 2021, incluido el borrador del Plan de Asignación del Programa del Plan de Rescate Americano de la Asociación de Inversión HOME (HOME-ARP). El período de comentarios públicos es del 17 de marzo de 2023 al 17 de abril de 2023. El borrador de los planos está disponible para revisión pública en el sitio web de la Ciudad en www.visalia.city/depts/finance/housing_n_cdbg_services/public_notices.asp.

El personal lo invita a asistir a una reunión comunitaria y/o audiencia pública:
• Audiencia pública: 3 de abril de 2023 a las 7:00 p. m. en 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia • Reunión comunitaria: 5 de abril de 2023 a las 5:30 p. m. en 220 N. Santa Fe, Visalia • Audiencia pública: 17 de abril de 2023, a las 7:00 p. m. en 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia

Si no puede asistir, puede enviar sus comentarios por escrito a Margie Perez, especialista en vivienda a [email protected].

En cumplimiento con la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades, si necesita asistencia especial para participar en las reuniones, llame al (559) 713-4512 48 horas antes de la reunión.

Para personas con discapacidad auditiva, llame al (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48 horas antes de la hora de la reunión programada para solicitar servicios.

Publicado: 3/15/23, 3/17/23, y 3/31/23

227

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 42 Appendix D: SF-424 Form

228

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 43 229

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 44 230

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 45 Appendix E: SF-424B Form

231

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 46 232

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 47 Appendix F: SF-424D Form

233

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 48 234

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 49 Appendix G: HOME-ARP Certifications

235

City of Visalia Draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan – FY 2021 Action Plan Amendment 50 236
Attachment D: Draft 2023 Annual Action Plan and 2022 Action Plan Amendment Tables Draft PY 2023 CDBG and HOME Annual Action Plan
Table D-1: Draft PY 2023 CDBG & HOME Annual Action Plan Resources: CDBG HOME
2023 Annual Allocation $ 1,200,000 $ 545,000 2023 Program Income 50,000 800,000 Total 2023 CDBG and HOME Resources $ 1,250,000 $ 1,345,000 Expenditures:

Administration and Planning:

Administration $ 250,000 $ 79,500 Total Administration $ 250,000 $ 79,500

Public Services:

Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance $ 20,000 $ - Family Services Voucher Program 50,000 - Kings View PATH Program 50,000 - Fair Housing Education 7,500 - Total Public Services $ 127,500 $ -

Affordable Housing:

Senior Mobile Home Repair Program $ 75,000 $ - Code Enforcement 175,000 - HOME-CHDO Multi-Family Project - 631,125* The Lofts Project - 634,375 Total Affordable Housing $ 250,000 $ 1,265,500

Public Facility Improvements:

ADA Compliance Projects – Tree Wells $ 622,500* $ - Total Public Facility Improvements $ 622,500 $ -

Total 2023 CDBG and HOME Expenditures $ 1,250,000 $ 1,345,000

*Any increase or decrease of CDBG annual allocation and/or program income will be directed to ADA Compliance Projects for downtown tree wells rehabilitation. Any increase or decrease of HOME annual allocation and/or program income will be directed to HOME-CHDO multi-family project.

237
Draft PY 2022 CDBG and HOME Action Plan Amendments
Table D-2: Draft PY 2022 CDBG Action Plan Amendment
Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
PY 2022 Annual Allocation $ 1,183,482 $ - $ 1,183,482 PY 2022 Program Income 50,000 150,000 200,000 Prior Year Resources 1,834,163 - 1,834,163 Total Resources $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
Administration $ 262,500 $ - $ 262,500 Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance 20,000 - 20,000 Family Services Voucher Program 45,000 - 45,000 Kings View PATH Program 35,000 - 35,000 Fair Housing Education 7,500 (7,500) - Emergency Repair and ADA Program 50,000 - 50,000 Senior Mobile Home Repair Program 100,000 - 100,000 Code Enforcement 150,000 - 150,000 ADA Compliance Projects 342,440 157,500 499,940 Navigation Center Development 2,055,205 - 2,055,205 Total Expenditures $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645

Table D-3: Draft PY 2022 HOME Action Plan Amendment
Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
PY 2022 HOME Allocation $ 546,791 $ - $ 546,791 PY 2022 Program Income 200,000 - 200,000 Prior Year Funds - 120,000 120,000 Total Resources $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
HOME Admin $ 70,750 $ - $ 70,750 First Time Homebuyer Program 125,000 120,000 245,000 The Lofts Project 551,041 - 551,041 Total Expenditures $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791

238
2023 Annual Action Plan,
2022 Action Plan Amendment, &
2021 HOME-ARP Allocation Plan
Amendment

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 3, 2023
239
2 CDBG
 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
 Supports community development by providing decent housing, suitable living environment, & expansion of economic opportunities.  Activities Must Meet At-Least One:
Benefit low- or moderate-income persons or areas
Eliminate slums or blight
Meet an urgent emergency
240
3 HOME
 HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)
 Supports increasing affordable housing opportunities.  Eligible Activities:
Homebuyer Assistance
Rehabilitation for Owner-Occupants
Rental Housing Production
Tenant-Based Rental Assistance
241
Funding Process 4
Amendments
Appropriate unspent funds or additional funds received.

Annual Action Plan
Implements ConPlan approved activities and projects.

Awards contracts to do as approved in ConPlan.
5-Year ConPlan
Establishes activities and project goals.
242
Summary 5
Seeking direction for 2023 Action Plan, 2022, & 2021 Action Plan Amendments including HOME-ARP Allocation Plan
Public Comment Period 3/17/23 – 4/17/23
Due to HUD May 15, 2022
243
30-Day Public Comment Period
March 17 – April 17
6 4/3/23 – COUNCIL REVIEW
& COMMENT
4/5/23 – CITIZEN

ADVISORY COMMITTEE
4/17/23 – PUBLIC

HEARING FOR ADOPTION
244
2023
CDBG
Projected
Resources
7 Table 1- 2023 CDBG Resources
Resources CDBG
2023 Annual Allocation $ 1,200,000
2023 Program Income 50,000
Total 2023 CDBG Resources $ 1,250,000
245
2023
CDBG
Proposed
Funding
8 Table 2 - 2023 CDBG Proposed Funding
Administration $ 250,000
Public Services:

KTHA/CoC $ 20,000
Family Services - Voucher Program $ 50,000
Kings View PATH Program $ 50,000
Fair Housing $ 7,500
Total Public Services $ 127,500
Affordable Housing:

Senior Mobile Home Repair Program $ 75,000
Code Enforcement $ 175,000
Total Affordable Housing $ 250,000
Public Facility Improvements:

ADA Compliance Project - Tree Wells $ 622,500
Total Public Facility Improvements $ 622,500
Total CDBG Expenditures $ 1,250,000
246
2023
HOME
Projected
Resources
9 Table 3 - 2023 HOME Resources
Resources HOME
2023 Annual Allocation $ 545,000
2023 Program Income 800,000
Total 2023 HOME Resources $ 1,345,000
247
2023
HOME
Proposed
Funding
10 Table 4 - 2023 HOME Proposed Funding
HOME Administration $ 79,500
HOME-CHDO Multi-Family Project 631,125
The Lofts Project 634,375
Total 2023 HOME Proposed Funding $ 1,345,000
248
11 2022 CDBG Proposed Amendment
Table 5 - PY 2022 CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment
Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
PY 2022 Annual Allocation $ 1,183,482 $ - $ 1,183,482 PY 2022 Program Income 50,000 150,000 200,000
Prior Year Resources 1,834,163 - 1,834,163
Total Resources $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
Administration $ 262,500 $ - $ 262,500 Kings Tulare Homeless Alliance 20,000 - 20,000
Family Services Voucher Program 45,000 - 45,000
Kings View PATH Program 35,000 - 35,000
Fair Housing Education 7,500 (7,500) -
Emergency Repair and ADA Program 50,000 - 50,000
Senior Mobile Home Repair Program 100,000 - 100,000
Code Enforcement 150,000 - 150,000
ADA Compliance Projects – Transit Pathway 342,440 157,500 499,940 Navigation Center Development 2,055,205 - 2,055,205
Total Expenditures $ 3,067,645 $ 150,000 $ 3,217,645 249
12 2022 HOME Proposed Amendment
Table 6 - PY 2022 HOME Annual Action Plan Amendment
Resources Approved Adjustments Proposed
PY 2022 HOME Allocation $ 546,791 $ - $ 546,791 PY 2022 Program Income 200,000 - 200,000
Prior Year Funds - 120,000 120,000
Total Resources $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791 Expenditures Approved Adjustments Proposed
HOME Admin $ 70,750 $ - $ 70,750 First Time Homebuyer Program 125,000 120,000 245,000
The Lofts Project 551,041 - 551,041
Total Expenditures $ 746,791 $ 120,000 $ 866,791 250
2021

HOME-ARP
Allocation
Plan
13 HOME-ARP funds
HOME-ARP funds
• $1,840,059
Qualifying Populations:

Qualifying Populations:
• Homeless
• At Risk of Homeless
• Fleeing Domestic Violence or Human Trafficking
• Greatest Risk of Housing Instability
Eligible Activities:

Eligible Activities:
• Affordable Rental Housing
• Non-Congregated Shelter Units
• Tenant Based Rental Assistance
• Supportive Services
251
14 2021 HOME-ARP Allocation
Plan Amendment
 Majestic Project
 4/18/22 Council awarded HOME-ARP RFP to RHCB to covert the Majestic Motel into PSH for people experiencing homelessness.  Amendment Purpose
 To provide preferences to people experiencing homelessness to utilize Coordinated Entry System (CES) into the Majestic Project.  Homekey funds requires utilizing CES.
252
Action
Tonight
15 • Hold a Public Hearing
Hold
• Receive public comments on:
• Draft 2023 Action Plan
• Draft 2022 Action Plan
Amendment
• Draft 2021 HOME-ARP
Allocation Plan Amendment
Receive
253
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 23-0101 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

Agenda Item Wording:

Review and comment on the proposed U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) Substantial Amendment to provide $120,000 for the funding of First Time Homebuyer Loans for five single family homes constructed at NW 5th Avenue and N Court Street.

Deadline for Action: 4/3/2023
Submitting Department: Finance and Technology Services
Contact Name and Phone Number: Margie Perez, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, (559) 713-4460; Melody Murch, Assistant Finance Director, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, (559) 713-4379; Renee Nagel, Finance Director, [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>, (559) 713-4375 Department Recommendation:

Staff recommends that Council review and comment on the Draft Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) Substantial Amendment and receive public comment.

Background Discussion:

The Neighborhood Stabilization Program was enacted in 2008 under the Housing Economic Recovery Act or HERA and is referred to as NSP1. NSP1was established for the purpose of providing emergency assistance to stabilize communities with high rates of abandoned and foreclosed homes, and to assist households whose annual incomes are up to 120 percent of the area median income (AMI). The City of Visalia received NSP1 funds in Fiscal Year 2008-2009 and has not since received any additional grant funds. Current available NSP1 funds are a result of program income generated from previous NSP1 first time homebuyer loans. The City of Visalia is nearing closeout of its Neighborhood Stabilization Program and is proposing to reallocate the remaining balance of approximately $120,000 in NSP1 funds. This balance is from recaptured program income and available funds obligated for acquisition, rehabilitation and resell of foreclosed homes through Habitat for Humanity.

Staff has prepared an amendment for Council and public review, in effort to close out the 2008 Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1), which proposes the use of approximately $120,000 in remaining NSP1 funding to provide First Time Homebuyer (FTHB) program or secondary financing for 5 single-family homes which have been constructed by Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) on NW 5th Avenue and N Court Street with the use of HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds.

This amendment is being brought tonight for review and discussion and will return for a final public hearing and request for approval on April 17, 2023.

Eligible Activities:

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 6
powered by Legistar™
254
File #: 23-0101 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

Only three possible property types can receive NSP assistance:

1. Foreclosed Properties,

2. Abandoned Properties, or

3. Development on Vacant Land.

NSP1 eligible activities include the following:

A. Establish financing mechanisms for purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed homes and residential properties.

B. Acquisition and rehabilitation to sell, rent or develop abandoned or foreclosed homes and residential properties.

C. Establishment of land banks for foreclosed homes.

D. Demolition of blighted structures; and
E. Redevelopment of demolished, or vacant properties.

A. Financing Mechanisms:

Financing Mechanisms for purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed upon homes and residential properties may include soft-second mortgages, loan loss reserves, and shared equity loans. This use must involve some form of loan or credit enhancement and might include a pool of low interest loans for individuals who purchase and rehabilitate homes for use as their primary residence. Loan forgiveness is allowed, based on performance by the borrower according to terms set by the grantee. Such Financing Mechanisms are distinct from the type of subsidies used below in B or E.

B. Acquisition and Rehabilitation:

In purchasing and rehabilitating homes and residential properties that have been foreclosed upon or abandoned, grantees can finance rehabilitation with loans or grants to make housing affordable, provide direct homeownership assistance, reduce the price of the home being sold, or offer downpayment assistance.

C. Land Banking:

Land banking - Properties that have been landbanked may use any of the strategies mentioned above under A or B when they are put back onto the market, then renovated and/or sold.

D. Demolition of Blighted Structures:

Demolition of blighted properties to mitigate the likelihood of property value declines in surrounding properties. A structure is blighted when it exhibits objectively determinable signs of deterioration sufficient to constitute a threat to human health, safety, and public welfare.

E. Redevelopment of Demolished, or Vacant Properties:

Redevelopment of demolished or vacant properties could include many of the activities noted above in A and B, as well as new construction of housing for LMMI. These would include loans and grants for homeowners and rental housing providers, homeownership assistance, and other similar forms of assistance.

Ineligible Activities:

These include, but not limited to:

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 2 of 6
powered by Legistar™
255
File #: 23-0101 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
 Foreclosure prevention
o Including refinancing mortgages, paying back taxes or mortgage payments, and underwriting counseling-related expenses.
 Demolition of non-blight structures
 Any NSP1 activity that is not located within the approved neighborhood/target area.

National Objective Requirement:

NSP1 funds were required to meet one of two of the following Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) national objectives:
1) Housing Activities - Low-Moderate- and Middle-Income Housing (LMMH):

Benefiting households at or below 120% of the area median income. 2) Area Benefit Activities - Low-Moderate- and Middle-Income Area (LMMA): Benefiting all the residents of a primarily residential area in which at least 51% of the residents have incomes at or below 120% of the area median income.

Additionally, at least 25% of all NSP1 funds must be used for residential units that are affordable to households’ whose income does not exceed 50 percent of the area median income (LH25). The City has met their 25% set aside threshold for households at 50% of the area median income (LH25).

NSP1-funded units must remain affordable for a minimum period, in accordance with HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) per 24 CFR 92.254 for homeownership units and as shown below in Table 1: NSP1 Affordability Period.

Table 1: NSP1 Affordability Period
NSP1 Assistance Per Unit Minimum Affordability
Period
Less than $15,000 5 years
$15,000 to $40,000 10 years
More than $40,000 20 years
New construction of rental housing15 years
Proposed Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) Substantial Amendment:

The proposed NSP1 Substantial Amendment consists of an additional $120,000 in NSP1 program income generated from paid NSP1 funded loans, towards a First Time Homebuyer (FTHB) program or secondary financing for 5 single-family homes constructed on NW 5th Avenue and N Court Street with the use of HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. The 5 single-family homes are restricted to households at 80% of the area median income (AMI) or lower who have not owned a home within the past 3-years per HOME program standards.

The NSP1 Homebuyer Assistance will meet the Low-Moderate and Middle-Income (LMMH) national objective. The project will be within an NSP Targeted area, for households at or below 120% of the area median income. The Homebuyer Assistance will be provided to NSP1 eligible beneficiaries.

NSP1 homebuyer assistance follows HOME program standards found in 24 CFR 92.254. NSP1 funds may be used to make housing affordable by providing direct homeownership assistance, Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 3 of 6
powered by Legistar™
256
File #: 23-0101 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
reduce the price of the home being sold, or offer downpayment assistance. NSP1 assisted homes will need to remain owner occupied for the life of the loan.

Federal and State Regulations:

Per § 92.254(a)(3), HOME assisted housing must be acquired by a homebuyer whose family qualifies as a low-income family, and the housing must be the principal residence of the family throughout the period described in paragraph (a)(4) of this section. If there is no ratified sales contract with an eligible homebuyer for the housing within 9 months of the date of completion of construction or rehabilitation, the housing must be rented to an eligible tenant in accordance with § 92.252. Construction for all 5 homes is expected to be completed by the end of April 2023. Therefore, these homes need to be sold by January to prevent converting into low-income rental properties. Staff does not recommend converting these single-family homes into low-income rental properties. Low-income single-family rentals are known for having high turnover rates. The City would be the landlord of these homes and would be responsible for the ongoing maintenance.

Funding for the ongoing maintenance of these five single-family homes will take away from other programs.

In addition, three of the homes land were purchased with Low- and Moderate-Income Housing Asset Funds (LMIHAF) or Successor Agency Housing (SAH) funds. As a result, if converted to rental housing those homes would require a 55-year rental affordability covenant in accordance with § 33334.3(f)(1)(B). Therefore, the City would be responsible to perform a 55-year annual monitoring of those homes.

Loan Terms:

The NSP1 FTHB loan shall be in the form of a second trust deed secured by a Note and Deed of Trust.
• Payments on the loan may be deferred, at the election of the Eligible Homebuyer, for thirty (30) years, beginning at the time of execution of the Note. • The City Loan(s) shall be due and payable in full on the thirtieth (30) year at the conclusion of the deferral period in accordance with the terms of the Note required by the Owner’s Participation Agreement. This will allow the borrower to delay amortization of this portion of the debt until the first mortgage is fully repaid. Borrowers may make payments on this deferred debt at any time during the 30-year deferral period. • The deferred principal amount shall become immediately due and payable at such time as either:
o The Eligible Homebuyer or immediate family member ceases to maintain continuous residence on the property; or
o Title to the property is transferred; or
o The property is refinanced.

Affordability Covenant:

A 30-year affordability covenant shall be recorded to maintain affordability. The affordability covenant Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 4 of 6
powered by Legistar™
257
File #: 23-0101 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.
shall use the “Recapture Provision”, as referenced under 24, CFR 92.254(a)(5)(ii)(A)(1) and shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. “Recapture Provision”, as referenced under 24, CFR

92.254(a)(5)(ii)(A)(1) and shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. The City may recapture the entire amount of the direct grant subsidy from the homeowner and the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price, if the purchase price is below the fair market value and any additional assistance as referenced above. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold. HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct assistance/investment, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds.

Public Hearing for Adoption: Staff will return to Council with the final NSP1 PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment on April 17, 2023, to hold a public hearing for adoption. This will include the comments provided by Council today, those received at the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting on April 5, 2023, and all public comments received during the 30-day public review period commencing March 17, 2023, through April 17, 2023.

Fiscal Impact:

All expenditures proposed in this item will be funded with NSP1 grant funds and no General Fund money is to be included. All proposed budget amounts will become amendments to the current City budget.

Prior Council Action:
● March 19, 2018 - Conference with Real Property Negotiators for vacant lots at 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenue, and 1113 N Court Street.
● April 16, 2018 - Authorize sale of properties located at 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenue, and 1113 N Court Street to Self-Help Enterprises for affordable housing development and future sale as owner-occupied single-family detached homes to income qualifying households. ● June 18, 2018 - First Reading of Ordinance 2018-10 and held a public hearing to received comment on the sale and development of the properties located at 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenue, and 1113 N Court Street.
● July 16, 2018 - Second Reading of Ordinance No. 2018-10 and held a public hearing to received comment on the sale and development of the properties located at 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenue, and 1113 N Court Street.

Other: None.

Alternatives: None.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

No motion is required.

Environmental Assessment Status: HOME NEPA Completed. NSP1 NEPA underway.

CEQA Review: N/A
Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 5 of 6
powered by Legistar™
258
File #: 23-0101 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 2.

Attachments:


Attachment A: Draft NSP1

Substantial

Amendment


Attachment B: COV Homebuyer Guidelines


Attachment C: NSP Amendment PPT

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 6 of 6
powered by Legistar™
259

CITY OF VISALIA, CALIFORNIA

THE NSP SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT
AMENDMENT: ADDITION OF ELIGIBLE USE “A”

Jurisdiction(s): City of Visalia
(identify lead entity in case of joint
agreements)

Jurisdiction Web Address:
www.visalia.city
(URL where NSP Substantial Amendment
materials are posted) See below
Contact Person: Leslie Caviglia
Address: 220 N Santa Fe
Visalia, California 93291
Telephone: (559) 713-4312
Fax: (559) 713-4800
Email: [email protected]

Second Contact: Margie Perez, Housing
Specialist, 707 West Acequia, Visalia,
CA 93291; (559)713-4460;
[email protected]
http://www.visalia.city/depts/finance/housing_n_cdbg_services/publications_n_reports/neig hborhood_stabilization_program.asp

This Amendment t o the Acti on Plan for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program 1 is hereby further amended to include the following:

Visalia has exceeded the NSP requirements, including set aside requirements through acquisition, rehabilitation and resell of single-family properties to income qualifying households in both categories (up to 50% AMI and between 51%- 120% AMI). The City was also successful in these income categories.

The City of Visalia is nearing closeout of its Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) and is propo sing to reallocate approximately $120,000 in Neighborhood Stabilization Program 1 (NSP1) funds from recaptured program income and available funds obligated for acquisition, rehabilitation and resell of foreclosed homes through Habitat for Humanity.

The market has changed substantially since the original grant was awarded; and there are very limited opportunities to make offers on foreclosed homes in the NSP1 targeted area.

NSP1 funds not expended must be obligated to NSP1 eligible activities i n order to meet Federal NSP1 grant requirements. The City proposes to provide First Time Homebuyer (FTHB) assistance as a deferred 30 -year seco ndary financing to newly constructed single-family homes with the use of HOME In vestment Partnerships Program (HO ME) funds, located in Visalia, CA, which meets NSP1 requirements.

NSP1 funds will be used for the secondary financing for 5 -single family homes for income eligible households that have not owned a home in the pas t 3 years , under the Eligible Use “A” – Establish financing mechanisms for purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed homes and residential properties.
260

2 The single-family home s are located within the NSP1 target area, with the location addresses of 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenue, and 1113 N Court Street in Visalia, CA. The homes will be sold to households with income meeting the NSP1 income limits at or below 120% area median income. Homebuyers will be required to provide annual occupancy verification for the life of the NSP1 loan, which the Cit y will revie w for compliance.

The City proposes to amend the NSP1 Action Plan 2008, to: 1) Add Eligible Use Activity (“A”) Estab lish financi ng mechanisms for p urchase and redevelopment of foreclos ed homes and residential properties. 2) redirect Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) Funding from Habitat for Humanity (Habitat) to First Time Homebuyer Assistance under eligible use “A” activity; 3) and provid e remaining funding (approximately $ 120,000) to eligible NSP1 Homebuyers for use of NSP1 funds towa rd 30-year deferred soft-second mortgage to assist income eligible homebuyers. Since this action adds a new eligible activity and new identified beneficiaries, the City has determined that a formal program amendment is required.

NSP NEW ACTIVITY DETAILS

A. AREAS OF GREATEST NEED
The property is within the identified “Area of Greatest Need” – NSP1 Boundaries.

B. DISTRIBUTION AND USES OF FUNDS
The City will provide NSP 1 homebuyer assistance to income eligible homebuyers as a soft-second mortgage. The NSP sof t-second mortgage will be 3 0-year deferred at zero percent interest. The NSP 1 loan will be due and payable in full on the 30 th year at conclusion of the deferral period in accordance with the terms of the Note required by the Owner’s Participation Agreement . The deferral p ayment principal shall become immediately due and payable at such time as either: the eligible homebuyer(s) ceases to maintain continuous residence on the property; Title to the property is transferred; or the property is refinanced.

1) ELIGIBLE ACTIVITY FROM THE NSP REGULATIONS:

• NSP Eligible Use “A”- Financing Mechanisms

2) CORRELATED ELIGIBLE ACTIVITY FROM THE CDBG ENTITLEMENT REGULATIONS:

The correlated eligibility activity from the CDBG Entitlement Regulations for the use of the NSP funding is as follows:

• 24 CFR 570.201 (n) Homeownership Assistance

C. DEFINITIONS AND DESCRIPTIONS
261

3 1) Describe how the grantee will ensure continued affordability for NSP assiste d property

The Property will be subject to a Restriction Agreement which will be reco rded against the property. The Agreement shall run with the land and shall bind Owner and all of Owner's successors in interest as owners of the Property.

2) Describe hou sing rehabilitation standards that will apply to NSP assisted activities.

The City of Visalia’s Building Department conducts inspections to confirm that the construction of properties meet s California Building Code requirements. The policy follows local and state regulations and codes , housing quality and habitability standards for construction.

D. LOW INCOME TARGETING

The Homebuyer Assistance will meet the Low-Moderate and Middle -Income ( LMMH) national objective. The project will be within an NSP Targeted area , f or households at or below 120% of the area median income. The Homebuyer Assistance will be provided to NSP1 eligible beneficiaries. All beneficiaries will have income certifications.

E. ACQUISITIONS

Five single -family homes were construct ed on vacan t land with the location addresses of 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenue, and 1113 N Court Street in Visalia, CA. The homes will be sold to households with income meeting the NSP1 income limits at or below 120% area median income.

The number of units- five (5) and there is no intention to demolish units.

F. PUBLIC COMMENT

Provide a su mmary of public comments received to the proposed NSP Substantial Amendment.

During the 30-day noticing of this proposed NSP Substantial Amendment, staff provided information regarding the amendment at three (3) community committee meetings and public hearings, listed below, and the public in general were invited to attend. As identified in the Citizens Participation Plan, the community committees, Citizens Advisory Co mmittee/Disability Advocacy Committee , along with the general public.

The community comments and City Staff responses shall be included.

Staff also presented the NSP1 Amendment at the City Council public hearing meeting s, held on Monday, April 3, 2023 , and Monday, April 17, 2023, held at the City H all, Council Chambers, 707 West Acequia, Visalia, CA, at 7:00 p.m. 262

4 In ad dition to inviting the public and committees, Staff published the public hearing notice in the Visalia Times Delta. The notice was also posted at City Hall East, City Hall West, City Administration, The Public Library, the City’s website , and the City’s social media outlets. A copy of the public notice is attached as Exhibit “A”.

ACTIVITY NO. (#) – Self Help Project NSP INFORMATION BY ACTIVITY (NEW

ACTIVITY- ADDED )

(1) Activity Name: Homeownership Assistance: Financing mechanisms for purchase of residential properties of vacant, ab andoned, foreclosed, or newly constructed on vacant land.

(2) Activity Type : Redevelopment. The identified NSP eligible uses and the CDBG eligible activity’s are as follows:

• NSP: §2301(c)(3)(A)Establish financing mechanisms for purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed homes and residential properties.

• CDBG: 24 CFR 570.201(a) Acq uisition; (b) Disposition, ( n) Homeownership Assistance

(3) National Objective: (Must be a national objective benefiting low-, moderate - and middle-income persons, as defined in the NSP Notice—i.e., ≤ 120% of area median income).

Low Moderate- and Middle -Income Housing (LMMH): The City of Visalia will provide NSP1 funding to provide or improve permanent residential structures that will be occupied by a household whose income is at or below 12 0% area median income (AMI).

The NSP1 homebuyer assistance will be p rovided to households with income who meet the NSP1 income limits at or below 120% area median income. Beneficiaries will be required to certify the ir household income at the time of assistance, which the City will review for compliance.

(4) Projected Start Date: April 1, 2023

(5) Projected End Date: December 31, 2023

(6) Responsible Organization : (Describe the responsible orga nization that will implement the NSP activ ity, including its name , location, and administrator contact information)

HUD has designated the City of Visalia as an entitlement city and a Participating Jurisdiction. The City of Visalia will provide the remai ning NSP funding to a qualified households for homebuyer assista nce as a s oft-second mortgage. (as defined und er 24 263

5 CFR 570.201 (f) (n), to provide low interest loans to individuals who purchase homes for use as their primary residence.

The City will underwrite the project, review income upon initial occupancy only, approve the household eligibility, cash flow , and reserves as needed. Beneficiaries for this amended activity will be persons with incomes below the maximum for the NSP1 program who are in n eed of homebuyer assistance for purchase of a property located at 101, 105, 111, or 113 NW 5th Avenue, or 1113 N Court Street in Visalia, CA. Self-Help Enterprises will be responsible for affirmatively marketing the available units to marginalized subpopulations in the City of Visalia, who may not have otherwise availed themselves of the services provided. Since this action adds a new eligible activity and newly identified beneficiaries, the City has determined that a formal program amendment is required.

Location and contact information is as follows:

City Contact:

City of Visalia
Leslie Caviglia, City Manager
220 N Santa Fe Street
Visalia, California 93291
Duns#030999866

Staff Contact:

Leslie Caviglia, City Manager (559) 713-4317
Renee Nagel, Finance Director (559) 713-4375
Margie Perez, Housing Specialist (559) 713-4460

Non-Profit Developer:

Self Help Enterprises, Inc.

(7) Location Description : (Description may include specific addresses, blocks or neighborhoods to the extent known.)

Proposed properties are located at 101, 105, 111, and 113 NW 5th Avenu e, and 1113 N Court Street in Visalia, CA.

(8) Activity Description:

This activity will address neighborhood stabilization in the NSP1 Boundaries through the financing mechanism for purchase of residential propert ies that may include soft -second mortgages for households a t or below 120 % of the area median income (AMI) level under the Eligible Use “ A”- Establish financing mechanisms for purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed homes and residential properties.

Include a narrative describing the area of gre atest need that the activity addresses ; the expected benefit to income-qualified persons; and whether funds used for this activity will 264

6 be used to meet the low-income housing requirement for those below 50% of area median income.

This activity ad dresses the need of providing homeownership assistance in the form of secondary financing to secure a sufficient amount of financin g to make housing affordable for low-and moderate-income households. Funds for this activity will not be used to meet the l ow-income housing requirement for those below 50% of the area median income level. The City has met the 25% se t asid e low-income housing requirement in previously funded NSP activities.

(9) Total Budget: (Include public and private components)

NSP1 funds will be $120,000 of program funds and program income but could increase slightly if additional program income is received during project negotiations of the funding agreement. The total costs asso ciated with acquisit ion and construction is approximately $1,000,000. Other po tential sources of funding for the project include conventional financing, Developer capital, foundation resources, private donations, and HUD HOME Investment Partnerships Program.

(10) Performance Measures: (Include public and private components)

The proposed NSP1 Amendment will provide Homebuyer Assistance. Accomplishments will be achieved following the close of escrow of an NSP1 income eligible homebuyer(s).

Annual home occupancy verification will be required for the life of the NSP1 loan.

Exhibit “A”, NSP1 Target Area Map
Exhibit “B”, Public Hearing Notice

265

7 EXHIBIT “A”
MAP –NSP1 TARGET AREA

266

8 EXHIBIT “B”:

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

City of Visalia Public Notice of the
Draft 2023 Annual Action Plan, 2022 Action Plan Amendment, 2022 NSP Action Plan Amendment, and 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the HOME ARP Allocation Plan Amendment
Review and Comment Period: March 17, 2023 – April 17, 2023

Notice is hereby given that the City of Visalia is seeking input on the draft Program Year (PY) 2023 Annual Action Plan, PY 2022 Action Plan Amendment, PY 2022 Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) Action Plan Amendment, and PY 2021 Action Plan Amendment including the HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program (HOME-ARP) Allocation Plan Amendment. The 30-day public comment period is March 17, 2023 – April 17, 2023. The draft plans are available for public review on the City’s website at www.visalia.city/depts/finance/housing_n_cdbg_services/public_notices.asp.

Staff invites you to attend a community meeting and/or public hearing:

• Community Meeting – April 5, 2023, at 5:30pm at 220 N. Santa Fe, Visalia • Public Hearing – April 3, 2023, at 7:00pm at 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia • Public Hearing – April 17, 2023, at 7:00pm at 707 W. Acequia Ave., Visalia

If you are unable to attend a meeting, you may submit your comments in writing to Margie Perez, Housing Specialist at [email protected].

In Compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings call (559) 713-4512 48-hours in advance of the meeting. For Hearing Impaired call (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48-hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time to request services.

Published 3/15/23, 3/17/23, & 3/31/23

267

SELF-HELP ENTERPRISES - CITY OF VISALIA
Affordable Housing Program
2nd Mortgage Loan
(Households at or below 80% AMI)

Program is administered by Self-Help Enterprises and overseen by the City of Visalia Finance Department – Housing Division (Housing) for Self-Help Enterprises Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) HOME Investment Partnership funded and Neighborhood Stabilization Program single family properties.

Fair Housing- Equal Opportunity Act
COV Affordable Housing Program effective July 1, 2022

268
2 Table of Contents

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 3 Program Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 3 Definition of an Eligible Homebuyer ......................................................................................................... 5 City is a second mortgage lender only ...................................................................................................... 6 Available Funds ..................................................................................................................................... 6 Co-Borrowers ........................................................................................................................................ 7 Down Payment Requirement ................................................................................................................ 7 Underwriting ......................................................................................................................................... 7 Application Verification ........................................................................................................................ 7 Form of Assumption Agreement ........................................................................................................... 7 Processing of 2nd Mortgage Loan ................................................................................................................ 7 Loan Packages ............................................................................................................................................... 8 City-Criteria ................................................................................................................................................. 10 Participant Qualifications ........................................................................................................................ 10 City Providing 2nd Mortgage Loan Only ................................................................................................. 11 Fees (Estimated Fees) ......................................................................................................................... 12 Final Credit Decision ................................................................................................................................... 12 City File ........................................................................................................................................................ 12

269
3 Self-Help Enterprises Affordable Housing Program
City of Visalia’s HOME and NSP1 funded
2nd Mortgage Loan
Underwriting criteria
Incorporated into Self-Help Enterprises Program Guidelines Introduction
Underwriting criteria was created to assist the City of Visalia, Finance Department-Housing Division (Housing) Staff, Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) a certified Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) with the City of Visalia, and its underwriter in determining the eligibility of an applicant.

The borrower(s) must meet the City, program funding policies, procedures, and regulations.

Program Overview
The City of Visalia provided HOME Investment Partnership Program, specifically Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) funds, and Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) funds to support Self-Help Enterprises project to provide homeownership. Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) is a Certified CHDO with the City of Visalia, who has met the requirements in receiving these funds.

SHE is utilizing Visalia’s HOME- CHDO funds to acquire, rehabilitate and resell single-family dwellings within the City of Visalia limits to income qualifying households. The specific funds utilized shall be referenced within the applicant’s file. Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) funds may be also used for secondary financing if funds are available. NSP1 financing mechanisms follow HOME federal regulations found in 24 CFR 92.254.

Sale of rehabilitated or construction of Qualifying Single-Family Properties. Following the rehabilitation or construction of a Qualifying Single-Family Property, SHE shall use reasonable efforts to secure an Eligible Purchaser. SHE shall be responsible for the outreach, marketing, screening and intake of potential clients, case file preparation and management.

Before any sale can occur, SHE shall provide the City with evidence satisfactory to the City that the following conditions have been met:

The total cost of development of the Qualifying Single-Family Property, including acquisition, rehabilitation, and soft costs. As documented by SHE and provided to the City.

Sales Price Valuation: The property resale may not exceed 95% of the area median price based on an analysis conducted by Self-Help Enterprises, of the local market and reviewed by the City. 270
4 The sale price shall be equal to or less than the fair market value, which shall be confirmed through an appraisal. If the property is sold below fair market value, the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price is considered to be part of the HOME subsidy and provided directly to the homebuyer as a direct subsidy. Furthermore, any additional subsidy provided to the homebuyer to enable them to purchase the property, which includes down payment assistance, closing costs, interest subsidies, or other HOME assistance including any assistance that reduced the purchase price from fair market value to an affordable price, shall be recaptured.

A 30-year covenant shall be recorded to maintain affordability. The SHE-CHDO Program covenant shall use the “Recapture Provision”, as referenced under 24, CFR 92.254(a)(5)(ii)(A)(1) and shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. “Recapture Provision”, as referenced under 24, CFR 92.254(a)(5)(ii)(A)(1) and shall begin the date the Deed of Trust is recorded. The City may recapture the entire amount of the direct HOME Subsidy from the homeowner and the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price, if the purchase price is below the fair market value and any additional assistance as referenced above. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold. HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct HOME assistance/investment, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds. This applies regardless of the nature of the sale (voluntary sales including short sales, and involuntary sales including foreclosures).

Eligible properties are single-family properties acquired, constructed, or rehabilitated, and prepared for sale by Self-Help Enterprises, located within the City limits of Visalia.

Upon sale, the property must be “owner-occupied” as a requirement of the program. The property must remain owner-occupied for a minimum of thirty (30) years for borrowers who obtain a second mortgage. In the case of the homebuyer selling the home during the affordability period, the City may recapture the entire amount of the direct HOME Subsidy and the difference between the fair market value and the purchase price, if the purchase price is below the fair market value, and any additional assistance as referenced above. The amount to be recaptured will not exceed the amount of net proceeds available at the time the home is sold. HOME rule limits recapture to available net proceeds, therefore, if net proceeds are insufficient for the city to recapture the full amount of the Direct HOME assistance, the City will recapture only what is available from net proceeds. This applies regardless of the nature of the sale (voluntary sales including short sales, and involuntary sales including foreclosures). 271
5 Rental or transfer of ownership of property during the affordability covenant will cause the loan to become due and payable immediately (See Owners Participation Agreement for Recapture Provisions for details).

The covenants and restrictions identified within it shall remain in effect until amended or either of the following termination events occur:
• The Property remains in the possession of the Eligible Homebuyer and/or an Eligible Household for the entire Period of Affordability; or
• Foreclosure, transfer in lieu of foreclosure, or assignment of an FHA-insured loan to HUD.

To confirm income eligibility, the Participant will complete an application and income eligibility forms (See Income Worksheets and Income inclusion & exclusion definition). Households with gross income at or below 80% of Visalia Area Median Income (AMI) are eligible. (Visalia AMI is defined as HUD HOME Income Limits for Visalia-Tulare-Porterville MSA – County Code 107). The City will not approve any application until confirming eligibility based on limitations to the City’s funding sources.

The Participants Primary (first) mortgage must hold a fixed interest rate, a minimum of a thirty- year term, as well as a housing/income ratio (principal, interest, insurance, and taxes) between 25 to 35% of the gross household income, based on 24 CFR 5.609 criteria. The program requires that the household’s total debt ratio cannot exceed 42% of the gross household income, which includes other monthly obligations.

Participants primary mortgage must include impounds for taxes and insurance, including flood and homeowner’s association dues (if applicable).

Definition of an Eligible Homebuyer
HOME funded programs are required to use the following definition of an eligible homebuyer, which is a “first-time homebuyer” from 8201(m) Title 25 California Code of Regulations:
“First-time homebuyer” means an individual or an individual and his or her spouse who have not owned a home during the three-year period before the purchase of a home with subsidy assistance, except that the following individual or individuals may not be excluded from consideration as a first-time homebuyer under this definition:
• a displaced homemaker who, while a homemaker, owned a home with his or her spouse or resided in a home owned by the spouse. A displaced homemaker is an adult who has not, within the preceding two years, worked on a full-time basis as a member of the labor force for a consecutive twelve-month period and who has been unemployed or 272
6 underemployed, experienced difficulty in obtaining or upgrading employment and worked primarily without remuneration to care for his or her home and family; • a single parent who, while married, owned a home with his or her spouse or resided in a home owned by the spouse. A single parent is an individual who is unmarried or legally separated from a spouse and has one or more minor children for whom the individual has custody or joint custody or is pregnant; or
• an individual or individuals who owns or owned, as a principal residence during the three-year period before the purchase of a home with assistance, a dwelling unit whose structure is:
o not permanently affixed to a permanent foundation in accordance with local or state regulations; or
o not in compliance with state, local, or model building codes and cannot be brought into compliance with such codes for less than the cost of constructing a permanent structure.

City is a second mortgage lender only
City will provide secondary loans for a thirty-year term at zero percent (0%) interest. • The loan shall be in the form of a second trust deed secured by a Note and Deed of Trust.
• Payments on the loan may be deferred, at the election of the Eligible Homebuyer, for thirty (30) years, beginning at the time of execution of the Note. • The City Loan(s) shall be due and payable in full on the thirtieth (30) year at the conclusion of the deferral period in accordance with the terms of the Note required by this Agreement.
• The deferred payment principal shall become immediately due and payable at such time as either:
o The Eligible Homebuyer or immediate family* member ceases to maintain continuous residence on the property; or
o Title to the property is transferred; or
o The property is refinanced.
* Immediate family includes only the Borrower’s spouse and/or children.

Available Funds
Participants may utilize City of Visalia HOME first time homebuyer funds and up to 10% of the total acquisition & rehabilitation cost incurred by SHE on the Qualifying Single-Family Property as down payment assistance (2nd mortgage loan to be carried by the City of Visalia, from Self- Help Enterprises proceeds).
273
7 Co-Borrowers
Co-borrowers, other than co-occupants, are not permitted on the loan (this is to prohibit investors from utilizing a qualified person to purchase a property for their own investment purposes and their financial gain).

Down Payment Requirement
Borrowers are required to provide a 1% minimal down payment of the sales price.

Underwriting
SHE will provide underwriting and document preparation services for the City of Visalia.

Resulting loans will be serviced by AmeriNat, Inc. according to its existing loan servicing contract with the City of Visalia.

Application Verification
City and SHE will verify income documentation certified by the eligible purchaser. Verification and eligibility will be confirmed by both SHE and City, and must include the following signed documents:
• Three (3) consecutive months most recent pay stubs
• Three (3) years income tax returns and W-2s
• Six (6) months bank statements
• Credit report
• Verification of Employment (VOE) (completed by employer and mailed directly to SHE) • Completion by Eligible Purchaser of HUD certified-Housing Counseling through SHE Form of Assumption Agreement
SHE shall transfer up to 10% HOME-CHDO development funds to a Subject property to an Eligible Purchaser, subject to the obligations of SHE to the City contained in the Note and Deed of Trust between SHE and City required by this Agreement. City agrees to allow SHE to transfer those obligations to an Eligible Purchaser at the close of escrow on a Qualifying Single-Family Property. To transfer its obligations to an Eligible Purchaser, Developer shall ensure that the Eligible Purchaser executes an Assumption Agreement, in a form substantially similar to the “Form of Assumption Agreement” which will be provided to SHE by City.

Security documents to be recorded against a Qualifying Single-Family Property shall be recorded in the Tulare County Assessor’s Office.

Processing of 2nd Mortgage Loan
• Self-Help Enterprises (SHE) will work with the Participant in completing the application and determine initial income eligibility.
274
8 • City Housing staff will review Participant’s completed application to confirm income eligibility.
• Primary Mortgage Lender will be required to submit all borrower’s primary mortgage loan underwriting and related documents to Self-Help, for review and preliminary approval. The City will perform the final review and approval of all loans provided through the program.
• SHE will underwrite the City’s loan as per FAP-II Program (per HOME funding requirements) and provide a Final Loan Recommendation (FLR), to approve or deny, within 10 working days to City Housing staff. City Housing staff will then obtain the final approval by the City of Visalia’s Loan Review Committee and/or the Finance Director and return the decision to SHE for loan completion. SHE will provide an approval letter to the lender, which outlines the loan approval conditions. • Once Pre-funding Approval is signed, Participant has up to 60 days to complete escrow.

This time may be extended by the Housing staff or a request to extend the escrow may be submitted to Housing staff with explanation/reason for request. • City will authorize SHE to proceed with loan documentation preparation by returning a signed Final Loan Recommendation.
• When problems arise on loan application packages, which need resolution or clarification, SHE will contact Housing Staff, and/or the lender. • Loan Documents will be drawn by SHE and sent directly to the local title company. If applicable, City staff may assist.
• Loan documents will be executed with the applicant by a local Title Company. • Local Title Company will be responsible for insuring documents are properly recorded and City is in proper lien position according to Escrow Instruction. • Loans will be serviced by AmeriNat, Inc.

Loan Packages
Self-Help Enterprises CHDO 2nd Mortgage Program Application to include:
• Statement of Household Compositions to include, Name, Age, and Relationship to everyone who will occupy the household.
• Income Eligibility Form (titled: First Time Homebuyer, up to 80% of Median Certification, worksheets 1, 2, 3, & 4) (Attachment U, T) City will provide median family income amounts annually to SHE & AmeriNat. http://www.huduser.org/portal/datasets/il.html program eligibility requirement.
• Verification of purchase price must confirm it does not exceed the HUD maximum.

Standard Lender Forms required for Applicant Eligibility:
275
9 • Uniform Residential Loan application (1003) completed and signed or other applicable loan application
• Preliminary Title Report
• Appraisal/Fair market valuation (Note: A copy of the appraisal must be submitted to the City via email prior to City loan approval and a copy must be maintained in the loan file) • Clear Termite Report (section 1 and 2)
• Loan estimate
• Closing Disclosure
• Lender’s Underwriting Worksheet (Signed 1008, 1003) or Mortgage Credit Analysis Worksheet (MCAW)
• Credit Report
• Three years signed and completed tax returns including W2’s o If borrower has a business, current profit and loss statement is also required. • Fire Insurance and Flood Insurance (if applicable) (City to be listed as 2nd Mortgagee) • Copy of Escrow Instructions signed by the Seller and the Participant • All appropriate verifications including but not limited to:
o Verification of Employment (signed by employer and employee) o Verification of Deposits or Bank Statements (6 months complete bank statements or verification of deposits required)
o Paystubs (most current 3 months paystubs)
o Gift letters and supporting documentation, when applicable o Explanation of derogatory credit
Primary Lender to forward SHE final primary mortgage approval upon completion.

Standard documents to be completed prior to closing (original documents to be held by City of Visalia, duplicates held by Self-Help Enterprises and AmeriNat, Inc.) • Notice of Right to Cancel
• Truth in Lending
• Promissory Note
• Deed of Trust
• Owners Participation Agreement
• Request for Notice
• Lender’s Escrow Instructions (Including Conditions to Close) • Flood Insurance documentation
• Hazard Insurance documentation
276
10 City-Criteria
Participant Qualifications
• Assets are to be reported; however, only income from assets is counted as household income, not asset value.
• Maximum income up to 80% of AMI adjusted for family size (See HUD Income Limits) o Income determination will be based on 92.203(b)(1) of 24 CFR, refer to 24CFR

5.609.
o Debt Ratios:
▪ Front End ratios shall not exceed 35%. Guideline for housing expenses:

This ratio is the result of dividing the housing expenses for the proposed loan by the monthly income of the borrower(s). This includes the monthly principal and interest payments that are stipulated on the mortgage note. In addition, the monthly housing expenses include a monthly amount for the property taxes and hazard insurance (1/12 of the annual taxes and insurance). There may be other expenses, such as condominium fees, homeowner’s fees, special assessments, etc., that are included.
▪ Back End ratios shall not exceed 42%. Guideline of total monthly debt obligations: This ratio is the result of dividing the housing expenses for the proposed loan plus the borrower(s) other monthly credit obligations by the monthly income of the borrower(s). These include monthly credit obligations, such as installment payments, revolving charge cards or other borrower obligations that will continue longer than 10 months.

Usually, 5% of the current balance of a revolving charge account is used for the monthly payment.
▪ Credit Report:
• if more than three derogatory accounts in the past three years are identified (by the “Open” date), then explanation should be provided by the borrower and noted on file
• no bankruptcies within the past two years
• no foreclosures within the past three years
▪ No-established credit is acceptable if Participant has approved proof of timely payments of utilities, rents, or other fixed monthly obligations. No additional layers of risk are advisable for applicants with non-traditional credit.
277
11 • At least 3 non-traditional credit references, for a period of 12 months or more, must be developed. Examples of what could be provided are the following:
o Rental or housing payment
o Utility payment records
o Insurance payments
o Payments to a retail store
City Providing 2nd Mortgage Loan Only
Requirements of First Mortgage: Borrower meet Participant Qualifications listed above. • 1st mortgage must be a fixed interest rate
• Taxes, Insurance and HOA dues must be impounded on the first mortgage • Lowest trust deed position for City: 2nd
• Terms of City Second Mortgage:
o The loan shall be in the form of a second trust deed secured by a Note and Deed of Trust at zero (0%) interest
o Deferred loan –30 years
o Repayment – Payments on the loan shall be deferred for thirty (30) years, beginning at the time of execution of the Note
o The City Loan(s) shall be due and payable in full at the conclusion of the deferral period in accordance with the terms of the Note required by this Agreement.
o The deferred payment principal and interest shall become immediately due and payable at such time as either:
▪ The Eligible Homebuyer or immediate family member ceases to maintain continuous residence on the property; or
▪ Title to the property is transferred; or
▪ The property is refinanced.
o Due upon sale, transfer or unit becoming non-owner occupied o Subordination agreement:
▪ 2nd position to primary lender
▪ No cash out allowed
o Loan is not forgivable
• The participant(s) must obtain fire insurance and flood insurance (if applicable) coverage on the property from the date of closing. The City is to be listed as 2nd mortgagee on the policy and the policy must be sufficient to protect the City’s full interest in the property.
278
12 Fees (Estimated Fees)
• Underwriting fee: $375.00
• Document Prep: $ 175.00
• Loan warehousing: $ 125.00
• Tax Service: $ 75.00
• Wire Transfer Fees: $ 55.00 for 2nd Trust Deed

Final Credit Decision
After SHE has reviewed the loan package, there can be four potential outcomes:

1. Approval: If the applicant is in good standing, meeting the criteria, and the underwriter has no questions, the loan will be approved with no conditions.

2. Approved with conditions (the most common response):
a. If the underwriter needs additional documentation before a final decision can be made, a "prior- to- document" conditional approval will be rendered. In essence, the loan documents will not be prepared until the condition has been satisfactorily met. An example of a "prior to document" condition could be the absence of a pay stub to validate the borrower’s income.

3. Suspended: Sometimes the underwriter will be unable to decide on a loan file because it is either incomplete or there are many unanswered questions. In these cases, the underwriter will ask for additional information from the borrower before an underwriting decision is made. An example of a suspension may be large gaps in the borrower's previous employment history and no tax returns to indicate the place of employment.

4. Denial: Underwriters will be unable to approve a loan if the loan file has substantial deficiencies and does not meet the minimum standards of the City. AmeriNational will provide the City with a Final Loan Recommendation. If denial is recommended, a second review of the loan recommendation will be made by the City’s Loan Committee before a final denial is communicated to the borrower. Denial letters with the reason for denial are sent to borrowers within 3 days of the final credit decision. Underwriting criteria can be different among lenders and a borrower may find other acceptable alternatives in the marketplace.

City File
Applicant File shall contain the following:
• Pre-Funding Reservation Request (must have a City project # and signed off by City Staff)
• (Pre 1978 homes) Copy of Lead Certification shall be placed into Phase III file • Flood Hazard Area Notice (Verification of Flood Insurance and zone is required) • Fair Lending Notice
279
13 • Sellers Lead Based Paint Disclosure (Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards Lead Warning Statement) • Participant eight (8) hour Counseling Certificate of Achievement (mandatory) • Other applicable disclosures (i.e., airport zone)

280
Neighborhood Stabilization
Program Amendment
City Council Meeting
April 3, 2023
281
Neighborhood
Stabilization
Program
(NSP)
Purpose
• The purpose of assisting
communities with high rates of
abandoned and foreclosed homes.

NSP1 Grant
• Received in 2008.
• Closing NSP1 grant.
• NSP program income is $120,000.
282
Property Types
•Only 3 property types can receive NSP assistance:

1. Foreclosed Properties

2. Abandoned Properties

3. Development of Vacant Land
283
NSP
Eligible
Activities
Financing Mechanisms
• For purchase and redevelopment of foreclosed
homes and residential properties.

Acquisition and Rehabilitation
• Purchase and rehabilitate homes and residential
properties abandoned or foreclosed.

Land Banking
• Establish land banks for foreclosed homes.

Demolition of Blighted Structures
• Demolish blighted structures to mitigate decline of
surrounding properties.

Redevelop demolished or vacant properties
284
NSP1 Proposed Amendment
•Funds Available
• $120,000 in NSP1 program income
•Proposed Activity
• First time homebuyer assistance for 5 single-family homes constructed on NW 5th Ave. and N Court St. with HOME funds. 285
NSP1
Proposed
Amendment
Benefits
• Secondary financing needed due to high
housing market.
• Not sold within 9 months of construction,
must be rented low-income tenant.

Secondary financing for NW 5th
Ave. Project
• Only 3 eligible property types:
• Foreclosed properties
• Abandoned properties
• Vacant land.

Closeout 2008 NSP1 Grant
286
Action
Tonight
Hold a public hearing.

Receive public
comments on Draft
NSP1 Amendment.
287
NSP
Ineligible
Activities
Foreclosure prevention
• Including refinancing mortgages, paying back
taxes or mortgage payments.

Demolition of non-blight structures
Any NSP1 activity that is not within the
approved neighborhood/target area.
288
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 22-0385 Agenda Date: 4/3/2023 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS:

Monday, April 17, 2023 @ 7:00 p.m., 707 W. Acequia, City Hall Monday, May 01, 2023 @ 7:00 p.m., 707 W. Acequia, City Hall Note: Meeting dates/times are subject to change, check posted agenda for correct details.

In Compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings call (559) 713-4512 48-hours in advance of the meeting. For Hearing Impaired - Call (559) 713-4900 (TTY) 48-hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time to request signing services.

Any written materials relating to an item on this agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda are available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk, 220 N. Santa Fe Street, Visalia CA 93292, during normal business hours.

Visalia City Council Printed on 3/31/2023Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™
289