Title
Infill Housing Opportunities (B)
Explanation
The City Commission has approved for the City to purchase 12 vacant lots in the Booker T. Washington Heights neighborhood for the purpose of donating to a non-profit affordable housing developer. This developer must build new affordable housing units to be sold to and occupied by low income households. The GCRA could partner with the Office of Housing and Community Development and the Public Works Department by funding $240,000 of the project in order to make all 12 lots buildable. This supports the 10 Year Reinvestment Plan objective to support community enhancements and housing initiatives.
The Board tabled this item at the August 19, 2020 meeting and requested clarification from staff on questions around budget, other housing opportunities, and the prioritization of the GCRA’s projects and programs. At a joint City Commission/GCRA Board meeting held September 15, 2020 GCRA staff presented a holistic update of all the projects and initiatives in the consolidated plan along with projects prioritized by the City’s strategic plan and action agenda. Staff revisited this item at its October 20, 2020 Board Meeting and the GCRA Advisory Board approved funding for the 9th Avenue Roadway Improvements in Duval so the GCRA can assist Housing and Community Development in making the twelve lots available for affordable housing.
Fiscal Note
The not to exceed amount of $240,000 is budgeted for in GCRA Fund 620 “Community Enhancements & Housing” account.
Recommendation
City Manager to the City Commission: Approve GCRA funding for the NE 9th Avenue Roadway Improvements in the Duval Neighborhood as described.
GCRA Advisory Board to the City Commission: Approve the Staff Recommendation.