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HousingPartnershipMinutes1991NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes of Meeting January a, 1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. Present: R. Abuza, W. Bundy, s. Carrell, A. Crystal, J. Dunne, B. Fogel, M. Ford, D. Gengler, J. Gezork, P. Goggins, M. Hebert, C. Higgins, M. Senechal, J. Wright Minutes were approved as submitted. 1. 2. 3. Sub-Committee Reports Zoning and Government Committee J.Wright presented a report - a letter was drafted to theMayor requesting that the Senior Planner position be filled.The Committee has started to look at demolition ordinances,they are researching what other communities have done. Policy and Planning Committee Requesting feedback from Partnership members on their draft activities. This will be discussed at the next Partnership meeting. Finance Met with lenders to further discuss products and needs. The Committee will meet again next week to focus on needs consensus. John Dunne indicated that the First Time Homebuyers Program is being developed by Julie Kling. Gothic street An offer has been submitted to bankruptcy court. CDBG Funds M.Berkley provided a report on status of CDBG funds. Therequest for $3,500 for the Grove Street Shelter will bereferred to Finance Committee/Project Review. In addition, M.Berkley and P. Goggins will review projects expected in forfunding request. Committee members agreed to meet in February -next meeting will be February 19. Meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, cia E. MEB/jad 1/30/91 ,!ff ' NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes of Meeting March 12, 1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. Present: s.Carrell, A. Crystal, J. Dunne, D. Gengler, J. Gezork,P.Goggins, C. Higgins, M. Senechal, N. Simms, J. Wright Others Present: J. Kling, Disdrick and Barbara Snoek, Tris Metcalfe, Scott Heyl, Austin Miller, Carol Walker Minutes were approved as submitted. 1.Presentation of Local Historic Districts Scott Heyl and Tris Metcalfe -members of the HistoricDistrict Study Committee presented in'formation on the fourproposed districts. Primary purpose of the district is to protect the common environment and the aesthetics of the built environment. Committee members expressed concern as to the effect of local districts on affordable housing. Scott and Tris stressed that hardship certificates will be available and there will be a fund to assist in the rehabilitation of properties. The question was raised on fire escapes and handi-capped ramps. In addition, there was concern regarding the bureaucracy of another committee. 2.Millbank II Austin Miller presented this project proposal. The plan is tolet Bank of New England foreclose and for the CDC to negotiatewith the Bank. Janet Gezork and John Dunne identifiedthemselves as developers on the project and they will refrainfrom discussion. Andy Crystal presented comments from theFinance/Project Review Committee. There was concern over rentlevels being too high -so a new pro-forma was distributedreflecting a reduction in rents. The CDC already has $10,000into the project and expects need for another $10,000 in a fewmonths. The Committee was concerned regarding a grant vs loanand in the after-the-fact request to the Partnership. Motionby J. Wright, "To appropriate $50,000 of CDBG funds andauthorize expenditure of $20,000 immediately. The developermust meet with the Project Review committee prior to theexpenditure of the other $30,000.11 Seconded by M. Senechal.Some brief discussion -approved unanimously. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting -March 12, 1991 Page #2 3. 4. Land Trust Proposal Carol Walker reviewed the concept of a Land Trust and the involvement with the City on 237 South Street. A new pro­forma was presented. The plan is to construct at two-family house on the lot. Clare Higgins and John Dunne announced conflict on the project. There were several questions and concerns on the project: $50/sq.ft. is to low a cost, the smallness of the project and pros and cons of working with Smith College. Motion by Nick Simms, "to commit $10,000 to this project", seconded by Janet Gezork. Approved unanimously. Two-Family zoning/Accessory Apartment J.Wright, Zoning and Government Sub-Committee recommends azoning change for more intense use of property yet within thecharacter of neighborhoods. Committee members were concernedas to the number of people this could add (build out). Motionthat the Partnership endorse the zone change and sent it tothe Planning Board. Approved with one opposed. s.Other Business There is a meeting scheduled with the general partner of Meadowbrook Apartments. Committee members were invited to attend. Pat Goggins indicated we did not get Gothic Street. Pal also announced two resignations, Will Bundy and Sue Carrell. Meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Marcia Berkley MEB/jad 3/26/91 NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes of Meeting April 9, 1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. Present: R. Abuza, J. Dunne, M. Ford, J. Gezork, P. Goggins, c.Higgins, A. Sax, J. Wright. Also present: Julie Kling and Marcia Berkley. 1.Downpayment Loan Program Julie Kling developed a program utilizing CDBG funds, it is a revolving loan fund targeted for First Time Homebuyers. Funds can be utilized to cover downpayment, closing costs, etc. in order to fill financing gaps. A Loan Committee will be set up with members of Housing Partnership and CDC Board as well as others. Process will be for CDC to evaluate the loans, the Committee will review the request for up to $5,000 and Committee recommend the loans. The next step will be to begin advertising the program. Al Sax moved to accept the program with periodic reports back to the Partnership. Richard Abuza seconded, approved unanimously. 2.Approval of Minutes 3. Janet Gezork questioned whether the funds allocated to Millbank II was a grant or a loan. Committee members agreed the $20,000 was a grant with the $30,000 to be determined later as to loan or grant. Goals, Objectives and Activities Al Sax reviewed the goals and objectives. The following concerns were addressed in the revised text (see attached). -Claire Higgins -need to look at funding sources otherthan the Housing Authority (Goal I.a.4). -John Dunne no agreement yet on business park so should not be assumed ( Goal I. b. 5, 7, 8 and Goal II. a. 5&6) Richard Abuza was concerned with Goal III. a. and the lack of attention regarding existing rental properties. Richard will prepare objectives for incorporation in the text. In addition, Committee members encouraged outreach for new members of minority population including non-white members and disabled members. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting -April 9, 1991 Page #2 Motion was made and seconded to adopt the goals, objectives and activities as modified. Approved unanimously. 4.Other Business Richard Abuza expressed concern over local Historic DistrictOrdinance. Concern is that it will increase the cost of affordable housing units general concern over gentrification. Pat Goggins suggested that a letter be drafted to the historic District Study Committee indicating that we have general concerns as to housing affordability. Janet Gezork requested that the Partnership send a letter indicating support of Housing Programs and the necessity of keeping the programs in the Housing Bill. Partnership agreed to send a letter of support. CDBG applications are due -Claire Higgins, John Dunne and Janet Gezork will discuss a request for housing drawdown funds. Meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Maria E. Berkley, Co unity Development Planner MEB/jad Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting May 14, 1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. Present: J. Dunne, B. Fogel, M. Ford, P. Goggins, C. Higgins, M. Senechal, N. Simms, J. Wright. 1. 2. 3. States of Committee Members and Sub-Committees P.Goggins asked Committee members to try and find some peopleto join the Committee. J. Wright asked where there are holesin the membership. The Committee identified the followingneeds: banking sector, HCAC, tenants, real estate community,disabilities, elderly people and minority representatives.Pat and Marcia will contact Al Sax, Alan Verson, David Murphyand Cindy Langley. Nick Simms will contact Joe Tringali. Sub-Committee reports Finance Committee There was brief discussion on merging Finance and Project Review Committees. The Committee agreed to hold off on merging until new members are identified. Bruce reported on the consortium work. A proposal has been submitted to the lenders and it is in negotiation now. Mary Ford feels the need to make presentations to the decision makers. Clare Higgins suggests that the final product be brought back to the Housing Partnership for approval. Zoning Committee Revisions have been made to the 2-family/accessory apartment ordinance. The ordinance has been approved by the Planning Board and will be submitted to City Council June 6. The next task for the Committee is the development of an ordinance for establishing the Housing Partnership as an ordinance committee. Other Business CDBG Funds were shifted by the Mayor to allocate $30,000 to 1st Time Homebuyers ( see attached). Clare expressed concern over using prior allocations as a means for budgeting upcoming years. With all the cuts this year, it is inappropriate to put funds into street improvements. Pat felt there was a need to be more practical and give in on this issue. Mary Ford expressed concern over so much going into streets and so much reliance on the housing drawdown fund to fund so many projects. There was agreement that the City must make a commitment to non-profits for longer than 1 year. Jonathan Wright felt the Partnership must arrange better and make sure that next year they are prepared early on. Mary Ford estimates that the Housing Drawdown fund ought to be $300,000 ($100,000 for the lending consortium, $100,000 for a drawdown and $100,000 for other projects which have requested CDBG dollars this year. Motion: Pat Goggins spoke on behalf of the Partnership and requested that between $128-158, 000 of infrastructure ( street) funds be allocated to housing drawdown. Clare Higgins moves, Bruce Fogel seconds. Unanimously approved. Section 707's (see attached) Clare suggested a letter be sent to Secretary Forsberg identifying the Partnership objection to the proposed cuts. Committee agrees a letter will be sent. Mary Ford suggests that letters be sent to the Gazette editor. Expiring Use M.Berkley advises the Committee of the proposal to work on a jointapplication with the Town of Amherst for use of Mass. HousingPartnership funds. This application would fund the use of aconsultant to identify options for the expiring use projects ineach community. The Committee unanimously supported the project. Business Park M.Berkley notified Committee members of the joint public hearingon the Business Park Zone -it will be held on May 23 at 8:00 p.m. Two project proposals have been submitted to OPD, they are Coach Lite and Hawley Street. Both projects were referred to Project Review. Meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m. Next meeting will be June 11. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting June 11,1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. Present: R.Abuza , J. Dunne, B.Fogel,M.Fo rd,P.Goggins,C.Higgins,M.Senechal,J.Wright Others present include:Julie Kling and Gerry Hersh-Northampton Community Land Trust Minutes were approved as submitted� Recommendation for new Committee members Pat Goggins spoke to Al Sax regarding new members, Al will appoint Shelley Abend as the representative of HCAC and he will continue to look for both a tenant and minority representative to serve on the Housing Partnership. Pat also spoke to David Murphy who agreed to serve on the committee. Marcia Berkley spoke to Cindy Langley for a recommendation from the elders community. Cindy recommended Ruth Vigeland, Pat agreed to contact Ruth and discuss the Partnership with her. Pat will try to contact Alan Verson to see if he is interested in membership and he will also contact Diedrick and Barbara Snoek to see of their interest. Committee Reports Zoning and Government Committee M.Berkley reported that the two family and accessory apartmentordinance will have a public hearing held before Ordinance Comm.and Planning Board on June 27. This committee will meet Thursdaymorning to discuss two items: proposed cluster ordinance andordinance recommending the Partnership as an ordinance committee. Project Review Committee M.Berkley reported in Andy Crystal's absence. Two requests werereceived for consideration from the Housing Partnership, Andyreviewed the two requests. The request from Gleason to considerthe purchase of the 1.1 acre site on Hawley Street, in Andy'sopinion the site is overpriced. The general consensus of thePartnership was to table this proposal. Regarding the request fromthe owner of 4 condos at Coachlite Condos, Andy was concerned thatthe units were all electric, in addition that the costs were highper unit. Pat Goggins suggested that the committee look at rentingthe units with an option to buy. The committee agrees that theFinance Comm. and Project Review Comm. meet and submit a proposalto the owner for rent with an option to buy. Fi nance Committee B.Fogel reviewed the status of the loan consortium. The Finance Comm. and lenders are meeting tomorrow to discuss the model that has been submitted to the group, in addition the group will discuss the concept of SIS serving as the lead bank in the negotiation of the program proposal. Preservation R.Abuza has asked Shelley Abend to become a member to hiscommittee, and she has agreed. When his committee meets they willdiscuss the proposed local Historic District Ordinance and itsimpact on affordable housing. Richard is concerned that theOrdinance is not advisory and feels it will have a negative effecton housing costs. Mary Ford is confident that there will becompromise on the Ordinance and she hopes that the committee usesthe ordinance to retain major architectural features. Other Business As requested by J. Wright, P. Kim submitted a financial update on funds remaining in the CDBG Housing·drawdown fund. (see attached) A proposal was submitted by the Northampton Area Community Land Trust for $7,500 for part time staff position for FY 92. This position will support the affordable housing activities being undertaken by the Land Trust, specifically the development of a duplex at 237 South street. Julie Kling presented a brief status report on the South Street project(see attached). There was general discussion on the mission of the Land Trust, cost of the Land Trust doing this project and how this project fits into the Land Trust role. J. Wright requested assurance that the position will work specifically on a housing project, not general administrative work of the Land Trust. M. Berkley indicated that CDBG funds for this activity must be used on a specific project. Motion was made by R.Abuza, seconded by M. Senechal, "$7,500 of CDBG funds beallocated to the Land Trust to fund the part time staff position asoutlined in the attached proposal. Funds will be allocatedcontingent upon there being no funds available from other sources.In addition all CDBG criteria will be met for eligibility of thefunds."Vote: 5 ayes, 3 abstention(C.Higgins, J.Dunne, B.Fogel) A proposal was submitted by the Valley Community Development Corp. for $10,000 to fund the part time position at the CDC for the implementation of the First Time Homebuyers Program. There was general discussion as to the increase in hours over last years request. R.Abuza moved, "the Housing Partnership provide $10,000 for the part time position as outlined in the attached proposal. Funds will be allocated contingent upon there being no funds available from other sources. In addition, all CDBG eligibility criteria will be met." Seconded by M. Senechal, vote:6 ayes, 2 abstentions (J.Dunne, B. Fogel) Next meeting will be held the regular meeting date of August, the Partnership will not meet the month of July. Pat Goggins will meet with potential new members to give an orientation to the Partnership. Pat and Partnership members thanked Marcia Berkley for help on the Partnership. Meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting August 13, 1991 Meeting was Called to order at 7:10 P.M. Present: P. Goggins, J. Dunne, D. Gengler, N. Simms, J. Gezork, C. Higgins, R. Abuza, M. Ford, J. Wright. Others present include: Ruth Vigeland -Council on Aging, Shelly Abend -HCAC, David Murphy -Murphy Real Estate, Louise Jeffway -Jeffway Real Estate, LauraYudin -City of Northampton. Recommendations for new committee members Pat Goggins reported that there will be 3-5 vacancies on the Committee. Diedrick Snoek was notified but did not respond. Pat addressed the need to have some new members serve on subcommittees and participate on a regular basis. He explained how there is input from the subcommittees at the regular Partnership Committee meeting. Three potential new members, Shelly Abend, Ruth Vigeland and David Murphy were present at this meeting. Pat will get in touch with each of them to find out which subcommittee interests them. Also discussed was the evening designated as meeting night for the Committee. Initially, the meeting night was changed to the 4th Tuesday of the month. However, since it might cause some confusion, this policy will not begin until the beginning of next year. Therefore the next meeting will still be held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, September 10, 1991. Description of Subcommittees Pat Goggins described the four subcommittees for the benefit of the three potential members. The Zoning and Government Committee is chaired by Jonathan Wright. It generates zoning changes that would positively impact the Housing Partnership. The Finance Committee is chaired by Bruce Fogel. It is in the process of developing a loan consortium of local lenders to help low and moderate income persons with the purchase of a home. The Finance Committee often meets with the Project Review Committee to review housing proposals and how the CDBG funds will be used. Andy Crystal plans to attend graduate school this fall and will probably not have time to chair the Project Review Committee. Richard Abuza is the chair for the Preservation Committee which is addressing the problem of Expiring Use. This subcommittee does not meet on a regular basis. Discussion of 16 North Maple street John Dunne described the history of this property. It had previously been a rooming house; there was a fire this past winter and the property has caused problems in the community. Valley CDC hopes to purchase and renovate the building. An application will be made for money from the Mckinney Fund through HUD. There will be 11 subsidized units and a service component will be provided. The technical applicant is the Housing Authority which will secure Section 8 certificates. The CDC will be the purchasing agent. Valley CDC already has a purchase and sales agreement and plans. The price to purchase is $95,000 which the CDC is asking the Partnership to fund. There will be a cost of $150,000 -$200,000 NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes of Meeting -August 13, 1991 Page #2 for rehabilitation. The debt will be paid off by the rental units and the rent from a taxi cab business already in the building. The zoning questions are being addressed. There was discussion about the long-term affordability of the units. There would be a restriction to maintain affordability. The proposal will be referred to Project Review and Finance Committee. Janet Gezork stated that there is a lot of competition for McKinney Funds and that strong City and Partnership support will be needed. The application will be going in next week. Because of the process that the Partnership Committee follows, there is not time for review but letters of support from the Partnership and the Mayor can be in by next week. Pat Goggins remarked that he and Laura Yudin would draft a letter soon. Additional discussion centered around the Committee's support for SROs and how much demand there is for this type of housing. Evidently, SRO's that are considered stable, safe and affordable do not have a high vacancy rate. Non­profit SROs do not seem to be negatively impacting the vacancy rates of market rate private SROs, such as the SRO belonging to Mrs. Shaw. A motion was made to support the project. Jonathan Wright moved to "encumber" the funds for the project. The project is subject to the approval of the Finance and Project Review committees and will have to demonstrate that it has long-term affordability, with a final decision by the Mayor. The committee voted to accept this motion with Higgins, Dunne and Gezork abstaining. subcommittee Reports Zoning and Government Subcommittee Jonathan Wright reported that his committee met in July. An ordinance drafted by Marcia Berkley, edited by Wayne Feiden and Laura Yudin to change the status of the Partnership, was reviewed by Kathleen Fallon, City Solicitor. She had several comments which will be addressed. The comments will be mailed out to the Zoning Committee for review. Jonathan reviewed the proposed Ordinance. Mary Ford suggested that the Committee get sponsors for the Ordinance, send it to the City Council which will refer it to the Ordinance Committee, the Planning Board and then the Partnership Committee. Jonathan Wright made a motion to forward the proposed Ordinance to the City Council. John Dunne seconded the motion. The proposed cluster ordinance will change the way cluster density bonuses are calculated. The following is the calculation now: for 12 units, with 15% affordable, on additional unit is allowed. The ordinance also allows for zero lot line development. It was suggested that Wayne Feiden present the proposal in September. The cluster and open space proposals will be mailed out to the full partnership. The proposal was submitted to the City Council for review. The committee would like Wayne Feiden to come to the September 10th meeting in order to clarify the proposed ordinance. Several members of the Partnership expressed disappointment that copies of the proposal were not distributed before tonight's meeting._ NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes of Meeting -August 13, 1991 Page #3 Finance Committee Claire Higgins reported that at the most recent meeting with the bankers, it was decided that the bankers would bring a list of products to the August meeting. However, due to vacations, the bankers canceled for August. In the meantime, Julie Kling has been developing a draft of a new proposal for a loan consortium. The banks are anxious to get rid of their OREOs and Claire would like to have access to the $55,000 of CDBG funds to use for downpayments for 1st time homebuyers. The Finance committee is meeting tomorrow to discuss the loan consortium proposal and the $55,000 CDBG funds. Some discussion followed concerning an appropriate strategy for approaching local lenders. Preservation Subcommittee R.Abuza reported on the ad hoc committee created by Penny Kim andConnie Kruger from Amherst to address the problem of expiring useprojects in Amherst and Northampton. Laura Yudin remarked that anapplication to MHP has already been written and will be mailed toMHP after August 22, 1991. Hopefully, it will be funded and thetwo municipalities will be able to develop a municipal model toaddress issues related to expiring use. Project Review Subcommittee Pat Goggins stated that this committee may need to be combined with the Finance committee. There should be more people on the Finance Committee. Persons not on the Partnership can be brought in to serve on a subcommittee. Other Business John Dunne received a letter today from H.E.R. stating that the organization does intend to pay back the $7000 loan after all. In a June 20th letter to the Partnership, Cynthia Bates requested that the Partnership forgive the loan. However, John Dunne spoke to Cynthia, and the agency will now pay it back over a period of time. It was suggested that the issue be referred to the Finance Subcommittee. Jon Wright commented that the process of codifying the Partnership will be complete in 2-3 months and that might reduce the zoning subcommittee's role. The Project Review Subcommittee always met with the Finance committee. Pat Goggins will speak with Laura Yudin regarding assignments to the subcommittees. The next meeting will be held the regular meeting date of September. Meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting September 10, 1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:20 P.M. Present: P. Goggins, J. Dunne, D. Gengler, c. Higgins, J. Gezork, N.Simms, J. Wright, D. Murphy, R. Vigeland. Others present wereWayne Feiden, Laura Yudin, staff. Proposed Cluster Ordinance Wayne Feiden summarized the cluster zoning ordinance. He explained that subdivision regulations are by right and that cluster development uses land more effectively and allows more open space. The infrastructure is less, resulting in reduced cost for housing. Wayne also spoke about the procedural requirements with the density bonus of 15% allowed to developers who provide an affordable house. Zero lot line allows the developer to drop the set back requirements from the side which in turn will make the lot size smaller allowing more open space, giving the developer more choices and creating a less expensive house. There was also a discussion about water and sewer hook-ups. Cluster development, because it creates smaller lots, would not work well with septic systems and wells. Therefore, there would have to be city water and ijewer hook­ups. Wayne mentioned that the Public hearing for this ordinance is Thursday, September 12, 1991, at 8 P.M. Pat will attend the hearing. Jonathan Wright asked the Partnership to endorse the Cluster Ordinance. Claire Higgins seconded the motion. The Partnership supported the Ordinance with an unanimous vote. Wayne suggested that it be stressed to the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board that this ordinance provides housing options and affordable housing. Meeting Date Change The meetings in October and November will be on the first Monday because Laura Yudin has a conflict on Tuesdays. Subcommittee Reports Zoning Subcommitee Jonathan Wright summarized the Ordinance and the composition of the Partnership. The committee has most groups represented now except for the ZBA. The Partnership now needs 2 more members to get up to the 15 required. Pat discusssed the ex-officio status for some members. However, if someone wanted to be a regular voting member he/she could serve as one. Ruth Vigeland expressed some reservations about being on the Partnership. Pat Goggins suggested she might like to serve on the Preservation Subcommittee since Ruth manages the Housing Rehab program and deals with seniors, many of whom want to stay in their homes. Pat and Laura will talk to Ruth about this at a later date. Pat Goggins mentioned that Richard Abuza does not want to be Chair of the Zoning Committee and will remain on Preservation. Jonathan Wright will be chair for the Project Review Committee. Pat is assuming that Bruce will remain as Chair of the Finance Committee. Pat recommended that John Dunne serve on the Finance committee and John agreed. John stated that he felt that the Finance committee should be dealing with the long-term financial plans for the Partnership instead of getting involved with each individual project. Claire Higgins remarked that the Project Review and Finance Committees were supposed review projects jointly. Jonathan Wright spoke again about the Partnership Ordinance. He said that he asked Bruce Fogel for his comments but has not heard from Bruce. Jonathan is asking City Councilors to sponsor and endorse the Partnership Ordinance. It was felt by the committee that we should get on with it and file a notice with the Council. There was some discussion regarding "staff or board capacity". It was explained that either a staff or board member from a group would be allowed to serve on the Partnership. John Dunne made a motion to send the Ordinance to City Council and David Gengler seconded the motion. The Partnership voted unanimously in favor of the motion. Pat stated that the Preservation committee has not met and neither has the Finance Committee. Laura Yudin reported that the Town of Amherst and the City of Northampton were awarded a grant to address the problem of expiring use. More details will follow. Goals and Objectives Finance Committee There was discussion about the loan consortium. Pat will speak with John Dunne about Julie Kling's position. Pat remarked that there is a need for helping persons with the purchase of a home. John Dunne reported that there is a program for the first time homebuyers that was approved in March. It was stated that the loan consortium and the first-time homebuyers program are separate. Pat said that according to Penny Kim we are not ready to give out the money yet. The Finance Committee should get working on the loan consortium as soon as possible. Pat and Laura will get in touch with Bruce to set up a meeting. If Bruce is not available, Pat will talk to him. Zoning and Government Committee David Murphy commented that changes in zoning can affect the whole city. Preservation Shelley Abend and Richard Abuza will remain on Preservation Committee. Project Review There was discussion about the $95,000 encumbered for the 16 North Maple Street Project. Pat stated that he did not realize that figure represented the total amount allocated for the year. Jonathan Wright knew that the amount represented the amount for the year but there is about $85,000 remaining from last year and he felt fine about recommending that amount. This is a departure from the normal amount that the Partnership recommends. John Dunne pointed out that there is no other source of funds for this project and that is why the total acquisition price of $95,000 was requested from CDBG funds. Claire Higgins suggested that the Project Review Committee needs to set guidelines for projects requesting funds. Jonathan Wright added that a time frame should be developed so �hat review of projects takes place in a timely manner. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 P. M. The next meeting will be held on Monday, October 7, 1991. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting October 23, 1991 Meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. Present: R. Abuza, J. Dunne, B. Fogel, D. Gengler, c. Higgins, J. Wright, D. Murphy, s. Abend, P. Goggins, Dave Havens, L. Patlove. Meeting nights were discussed for the next two meetings. The next meeting will be November 4th and the following meeting will be December 2nd. The November meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. because it is election eve and Pat Goggins has another commitment. Subcommittee Re-assignments Pat reminded the committee that according to the proposed Partnership Ordinance, there needs to representation from various boards, etc. on the Partnership. Diane Welter, who is on the Planning Board, has been asked to take Andy Crystal's place. Laura Patlove reported that Ruth Vigeland does not want to serve on the full committee but would like to be on the Preservation Subcommittee. There was discussion about preparing a packet of materials so that people who are new on the Partnership will be able to familiarize themselves with the committee' projects, etc. Pat stated that the committee needs tenants (Shelly Abend will look into that), minorities and bankers. David Murphy will approach Maureen Lawrence (banker) to see if she is interested. Bruce Fogel also suggested Linda Samolewicz as a possibility. Sub-Committee Reports: Project Review Sub-Committee Jonathan Wright spoke about two issues: one to do with a schedule which has been devised for projects to be submitted for review. The other has to do with criteria of a project. John Dunne reviewed the draft application for Northampton Partnership CDBG Housing Drawdown Assistance. Penny Kim and Laura Patlove will review the draft. The Project Review sub-committee will meet on November 12th to further discuss criteria for projects. Jon also remarked that Marjorie Senechelle recommended acquisition of the property at 16 North Maple conditional on a zoning permit and permanent affordability. John Dunne stated that the CDC has incurred additional costs for the writing of the Mckinney application, legal costs, etc. There was some discussion about how this request should be treated. Pat suggested that there may be some "planning" money available for these expenses. Laura will check into this. The expenses amount to about $5000. The general consensus of the group was that the $95,000 should be used only for acquisition. The question arose whether the Mayor will approve the $95,000 for the acquisition. Jon Wright made a motion that the Partnership Committee support granting $95,000 for the acquisition of 16 North Maple Street pending issuance of a zoning permit. The vote was unanimous in favor with Dunne and Fogel abstaining. Richard Abuza commented that there is a need for public relations so that this project will be well-accepted by the community in Florence. It is important as the project and its reputation will impact the Partnership's credibility. It was suggested that people look at 82 Bridge Street to see a good example of a SRO. It was expressed by some that this would not be enough. Finance Sub-Committee Claire Higgins reported that the committee will be scheduling another meeting in November. Bill Breitbart will be assisting the sub-committee in the development of a loan consortium which will help first time homebuyers with closing costs and downpayments. 16 North Maple Street Update -John Dunne The McKinney Application was approved (the subsidies are committed for either 10 or 15 years -John will find out). There was a meeting recently with the Florence Civic Center and the Mercantile where there was considerable opposition to the project. There was discussion about the history of the building, how it was used as a rooming house and that use was considered by some to be illegal. Residents feel that the neighborhood does not need another SRO. The opposition is based on people's fears of who will occupy the building. There was also discussion regarding determining the highest and best use of the property. It be worthwhile to do a feasibility study to see if using the property as commercial space would be wise. Dave Havens commented that the SRO legislation is important as is the Fair Housing issue. David Murphy feels that it is not the Partnership's job to do a feasibility study although the committee may want to do it to justify affordable housing at the site. Jon Wright suggested that Peter Frothingham, who is familiar with the site, give the committee his opinion. South Street Update -John Dunne The groundbreaking has taken place. There have been some soft cost expenses incurred by the Land Trust and John submitted the letter regarding this to the Partnership. The CDC will try to pay some bills for the Land Trust. Jon Wright asked if there is a paper trail of this project which would be useful to the Committee. Claire stated that all the materials are there, they just have to be put together. Other business John Dunne reported that Fleet Bank has responded to the CDC's offer for Millbank. The plans are at the CDC if anyone wishes to see them. There is a public hearing tomorrow night regarding the re-zoning of the State Hospital where there is potential for alot of affordable housing. Several committee members commented that the materials should have been available before the public hearing. Pat commented that he should have received materials. Laura will make sure that there will be materials available at the hearing. Shelly Abend informed the committee that HCAC has hired 2 people to study the lead paint issue. She asked members for information regarding how much housing stock has lead paint in the City. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting November 4, 1991 Attending: Goggins, Dunne, Murphy, Abend, Ford, Abuza, Wright, Senechel, Higgins, Gengler, Patlove; also attending, Diane Welter, (from Planning Board). 7; DS-j\.W I¼-� ,-i.-)� \ °'\ Meeting was called to order at �p.m. Jonathan Wright suggested that a motion be in bold print in the minutes. Otherwise the minutes were approved as submitted. Sub-Committee Report Preservation: Richard Abuza reported that the role of this committee was to deal with expiring use and to develop a strategy for addressing this issue. The state law dealing with SRO's was discussed. The law which states that it is illegal to change the use of a SRO was vetoed by Weld. David Gengler motioned that the Partnership writea letter in support of the law. Marjorie senechel seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous in favor. Finance: Clair Higgins reported that the committee continued to discuss the loan consortium. Pat will speak to Judy Cernak this Wednesday about the role of the lenders. Clair spoke about the possibility of including people from the Hilltown CDC and Amherst for the 1st time homebuyers program. Linda Samolewicz, who has agreed to be on the Partnership, will also be on the Finance Sub-Committee. State Hospital Report Pat Goggins summarized the zoning plan for re-use of the state hospital. The plans will combine preservation with other uses. There was alot of approval expressed for the plan at the Public Hearing held October 24, 1991. Partnership members discussed opportunity for economic development and housing, with an emphasis on affordability; concern for protection of open space, wetlands and agricultural land; the Main complex and the opportunity for industrial space; the possibility of research and development; creating a tourist attraction of some type; creating a "village"; dealing with traffic flow in and out of the area; areas where development is most likely to take place. There will be other public sessions where people can have input. Once Wayne Feiden has a plan in place, it could take up to four months for approval by the Council. It was suggested that Wayne come to a Partnership meeting in the interim to update the committee. Proposed Historic District Richard Abuza presented a summary of the proposed historic district to the Preservation Sub-Committee. Originally there were 4 propos·ed districts. The historic district study committee has decided to delete the three outlying districts and submit the downtown proposed district only. There was considerable discussion regarding the historic guidelines and the impact on affordability. The permitting and approval process involved would be burdensome to property owners. The preservation committee has mixed feelings about the proposed district. Laura Patlove mentioned that there will be someone from Great Barrington at the Ordinance Committee meeting to talk about how the local historic district works in that commun•ity. There will also be someone from Belchertown at the City Council meeting in December to speak in favor of the district. Richard commented that he would be in favor of an advisory committee and he would be receptive to a demolition delay ordinance. Marjorie Senechel remarked that she doesn't think advisory would be enough. Mary Ford stated that there is alot os support for the ordinance by downtown businesses. Richard said that the Partnership should have input and affect changes with the ordinance committee. Richard Abuza stated that he does not support the proposed Historic District because of its impact on affordable housing. There is an important need to preserve the dpwntown by creating a broad-based committee to address the important concern of maintaining the character of the City. Other business: Clair ·Higgins mentioned that the Finance Committee will create a loan review committee for the first-time homebuyers program. It was suggested that Clair serve on the committee. The Partnership agreed that this was appropriate. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Northampton Housing Partnership Minutes of Meeting December 2, 1991 Attending were: P. Goggins, J. Wright, D. Gengler, D. Murphy, L. Samolewicz, s. Abend, D. Welter, c. Higgins, J. Dunne, B. Fogel and R.Abuza. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. in Room 18, City Hall. D.Gengler made a motion to approve the minutes of the November4th, 1991 meeting with one change: the meeting was called to orderat 7:oo. J. Dunne seconded the motion which then passedunanimously. Later in the meeting, an additional amendment was proposed: Clare Higgins moved to amend the minutes on p. 2 to read: Richard Abuza made a motion that the Partnership indicate� it is not in support of the proposed Historic District Ordinance because of the potential negative impact on affordable housing and that there is a need to preserve the Downtown by creating a broad-based committee to address the important concern of maintaining the character of the City. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Sub-Committee Reports were presented: 1)Project Review. J. Wright reviewed a time-table for proposedprojects coming before the Partnership. He indicated amaximum turn around of 60 days with a preferred turnaround of30 days. Laura Patlove is working on additional criteria andJohn Dunne is drafting an application form. He noted an application from the Land Trust for additional funding for the South Street project. A meeting is set for December 5th to refine the process, discuss the financial review format and evaluate, e.g. cost/unit. c. Higgins noted that $2500/unit is a normal expenditure under CDBG allocations. J. Wright said the Land Trust request will comebefore the Partnership in January. 2)Finance. c. Higgins reported that the sub-committee will meeton 12/5 with a member of the Hilltown CDC and Bill Breitbart.The Loan Committee has met and intends to do a "dry run" withan application for First Time Homebuyers funds. J. Dunnereported that the Loan Committee consists of Clare Higgins,Linda Samolewicz, Wes Brown. They will make recommendationson applications. The Finance sub-committee will review anagreement/description with the City of the program andprocess. S. Abend inquired about outreach. C. Higginsresponded that it will be done through realtors, bankers andthe CDC. Discussion continued on the subject. c. Higgins suggested that the attorneys discuss deed restrictions and that information be gathered on different models from e.g. MHP. D. Gengler noted w.Feiden has some relevant information. B. Fogel suggested a corporate resolution as a model which commits property. R. Abuza and J. Wright pointed out that a deed restriction would have to be in place "at the front end. " D. Murphy noted that a deed restriction limits future value of the land. D. Gengler summarized the discussion noting a model is needed which assures flexibility. P.Goggins suggested the corporate resolution as a first step. Itwas determined that since three sub-committees had interest andresponsibility in this issue, R. Abuza would act as point person toaccomplish recommendations concerning the necessary model. Election of Officers Followed. The Chairman called for nominations for Chairman. B. Fogel nominated J. Wright. R. Abuza seconded the motion. D. Gengler asked if the nominee would still serve on a sub-committee. The nominee answered in the affirmative. The motion was passed unanimously. R.Abuza nominated c. Higgins as Vice-Chair.D.Gengler secondedthe motion which was passed unanimously. B.Fogel moved to compliment Chairman P.Goggins on an exceptionally good job. The committee seconded the motion which passed unanimously with applause. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Laura Patlove Richard Abuza 245 Chestnut Street Florence, Massachusetts 01060 Office of Planning and Development City Hall Northampton Laura, This is the concept I had of a "rolling Housing Interest Calendar" Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb � lt;; J..�JJ� cJP1_ �-/,.u:f,1 f � µ4/w r.,-,· r ·, Housing Interest Calendar �� 6 7pm Housing Ptrshp Full Comm Mtg city counc chambrs 8 8am Project Review Committee autumn in rest 14 all day Seminar on expiring use Boston 19 8:00 City council--Approval vote HPC C/C/C 28 10:30 Groundbreaking-Maple Street project 18 Maple Florence 29 5pm Finance Committee 2nd flr hearing rm 8 7pm Housing Ptrshp Full Comm Mtg city counc chambrs 14 13:30 regional Expiring Use Committee Amherst Tn Hall rm 16 7:00 Ord Committe hearing on Accessory Apts C/C/C 18 Feb 20 8: 30am Working Comm. on Hist Districts 2nd flr Hearing room Mar 10 7pm Housing Ptrshp Full Comm Mtg city counc chambrs This list is not guaranteed to be a comprehensive list of all committee and subcommittee meetings but an aid to things that may be of interest. Please notify Laura at OPD of all subcommittee meetings, schedule changes, etc and other items of interest as soon as possible. (close date for changes is o each month) abbreviation code: C/C/C city council chambers etc - RESOLUTION BY PROJECT REVIEW SUB-COMMITTEE The Project Review Sub-Committee proposes: that the Northampton Housing Partnership authorizes a short term loan of $11,900, with no interest, to the Northampton Area Community Land Trust (NACLT), which will be repaid by June 30, 1992. The loan will be recorded pro rata on the two units at 237 South street, Northampton, to be paid at the closing of the units, but no later than June 30, 1992. This loan agreement can be extended for periods of 3 months by the City's CDBG contract administrator. The proposal is subject to review by the city's Law department. The Project Review Sub-Committee requests that the NACLT use all of the $11,500, or the residue, for a land acquisition and housing fund, prior grant annual status reporting to the Northampton Housing Partnership on or about June 30th of each year.