DEPARTMENT:
Neighborhood & Housing Services Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD:
Ver?nica R. Soto, FAICP, Neighborhood & Housing Services Department Director
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED:
Citywide
SUMMARY:
Discussion and Possible Action on the Definition of Affordability
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On February 26th, 2020, the Housing Commission was asked by the Removing Barriers to Affordable Housing Committee to discuss the creation of a singular definition for affordable housing. Since that time the Strategic Housing Implementation Plan (SHIP) stakeholders began work to recalibrate the 10-year housing goals and create implementation strategies for the Housing Policy Framework (HPF). The Housing Commission selected Chair Jessica O. Guerrero to serve as the Housing Commission representative on the SHIP. Commissioner Alanis and Commissioner Nisivoccia also participate in their professional capacities. In addition to the new housing goals and strategies the SHIP will also be the document that contains the definition of Affordable Housing.
ISSUE:
The term 'Affordable Housing' appears several times in City policies and programs however does not have one standard definition. There is a need for a singular, uniform term that can be applied consistently across the City when affordable housing is referenced. Currently several programs and policies contain a definition of affordable housing including the UDC, Neighborhood Improvements Bond program, Center City Housing Incentive Policy, City Fee Waiver program, City rehabilitation programs, and administered federal funding sources.
The Neighborhood & Housing Services Department is currently in the process of developing the City's Strategic Housing Implementation Plan (SHIP). This plan will address the development of a coordinated approach to reaching the City's affordable housing goals and will take place in two phases: 1) Synthesis and Strategy and; 2) Management and Operations. The SHIP will coordinate the City and the other...
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