Title
ConnectFree Resolution (B)
Explanation
This is a request for the City Commission to adopt the ConnectFree Resolution to implement proposed changes to the Program.
In accordance with Sections 27-128 and 27-169 of the Code of Ordinances, the City of Gainesville imposes a 25 percent surcharge on water and wastewater connection charges incurred beyond the municipal boundaries of the City. In 2003, the City created the ConnectFree Program, which is funded by these surcharges, to financially assist with the extension, construction, and connection to the City’s water, wastewater, and reclaimed water systems. Since that time, the parameters of the Program have been amended several times, most recently on July 21, 2016, (Legislative File No. 160146). Although the funds are generated from water and wastewater connections, the City Commission can use the revenue for other activities.
Currently, the Program is used for the following purposes: 1) financially assist individual property owners to connect existing residential units; 2) financially assist nonprofit organizations or government entities to connect facilities that benefit special needs populations; and 3) financially assist City-funded affordable housing initiatives.
In general, the proposed changes to the Program are intended to increase the proportion of the funding to address affordable housing for neighbors residing within the city limits of Gainesville.
In addition, the proposed changes are also intended to streamline administration of the program. The major changes proposed for the program are listed below:
Add:
1) All single residential units benefiting from the Program must be owner-occupied, an income-eligible household, and located within the City limits. In contrast, none of those restrictions currently apply to the Program.
Note: There are 14 applicants on the waiting list that applied for assistance under the current Program. Some of these applicants may not meet the new proposed ...
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