Title
Resolution Authorizing a Contract Extension with HR&A Advisors in the Amount of $60,000 for Design and Implementation of a Housing Preservation Fund and Modification of City Rehabilitation Programs
Body
Council Priority: Maintain Infrastructure and Provide Sustainable Growth Opportunities; Exceptional Customer Service and a Diverse City Government Workforce; Ensure Fiscal Stewardship, Transparency, & Accountability
Department: Neighborhood Development
Council District: All
Public Hearing: No
Advertising Date/By: N/A
Contact 1 and Phone: Stan Wilson; 373-2509
Contact 2 and Phone: Cynthia Blue; 433-7376
PURPOSE:
City Council consideration is requested for a contract extension to add new services, increase funds in the amount of $60,000, and extend the term for the existing professional services agreement with HR&A Advisors (2019-5136). The new services are to design a housing preservation fund and modify City rehabilitation programs to implement the goals and strategies of Housing GSO, 10-Year Affordable Housing Plan adopted by City Council on October 20, 2020.
BACKGROUND:
At the April 14, 2019 City Council meeting, Council approved a contract with HR&A Advisors, Inc. for Consulting Services to develop an Affordable Housing Plan. The scope of work included an analysis of existing efforts in the City to identify gaps, propose solutions and present methods and best practices for increasing and preserving the affordable housing stock over the next ten years and to develop an implementation plan with short and long-term goals.
Affordable Rental Housing is a focus goal area of the Housing GSO, 10-Year Affordable Housing Plan adopted by City Council on October 20, 2020. The Plan recommends partnering with funders to establish a housing preservation fund to acquire existing affordable housing units. A preservation fund will help preserve existing affordable housing units and slow the increase of the affordable housing shortage for renter households earning $30,000 and below.
Neighborhood Reinvestment, another focus goal area of Housing GSO, recommends modifying the City rehabilitation programs by consolidating rehab operations, streamlining funding sources, program intake, and operation so rehab administrators can make data-driven decisions that reduce blight and substandard housing in Greensboro.
This contract extension will
1. Increase the maximum contract amount by $60,000 for a new total of $348,200;
2. Extend the term of the agreement until September 30, 2021; and
3. Add new services to design a housing preservation fund and modify City rehabilitation programs.
The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro has committed to fund $10,000 toward the design of the housing preservation fund. These granted funds help reduce the City’s cost commitment.
BUDGET IMPACT:
Amend contract 2019-5136 with an additional $60,000. Account #’s
483-2201-04.5413: $25,000
483-2201-05.5413: $25,000
220-2108-01.5413: $10,000
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
City Council is requested to adopt the attached resolution that authorizes the City Manager to execute an amended contract with HR&A Advisors, Inc. for the design and implementation of an affordable housing preservation fund and modification of City rehabilitation programs.