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05/21/1996 NEIGHBORHOOD & AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD CITY OF CLEARWATER May 21, 1996 Present: Shirley Moran Chair Mayme W. Hodges Vice-Chair Rev. William Graham Board Member William Turner, Sr. Board Member Bertha Kelley Board Member Howard Groth Board Member Mary Myhill Board Member Milly Joplin Board Member Alan J. Ferri Economic Development Director Michael Holmes Economic Development Assistant Director Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter Absent: George Konstantinidis Board Member The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that order. ITEM #2 - Approval of Minutes Member Hodges moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April 16, 1996, as recorded and submitted in written summation to each member. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. Member Joplin moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of March 15, 1996, as recorded and submitted in written summation to each member. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #3 - Subgrantees Reports Economic Development Director Alan Ferri referred to a spreadsheet that compares agencies receiving funding last year, summarizes agencies' timeliness in submitting reports, compares funding requested last year with this year, and includes six-months of spending figures, and the percentage of completed goals. The YWCA and Girls Inc. were not funded last year. He said some agencies have valid reasons for being off target. In answer to a question, Mr. Ferri said CSF (Community Services Foundation) was not funded last year through the regular mechanism. The Economic Development Department funded this program by cutting a staff position and vehicle. ITEM #4 - Old Business a) Review NAHAB (Neighborhood & Affordable Housing Advisory Board) Consolidated Plan Calendar Mr. Ferri said members will evaluate subgrantee agency applications on June 4, 1996. Member Hodges, who will be out of town that week, wished to complete the evaluations and return them June 6, 1996. Staff will forward her the forms. The plan must be published by June 14, 1996. It was questioned if agencies whose fiscal years differ from the City have problems applying for funding. Mr. Ferri said an agency's fiscal year is only relevant for their reporting. When the City performs on-site monitoring and reviews agencies' financial reports, staff looks at how agencies handle their money and the CPA and independent public auditors' reports regarding controls and accountability. Productivity reports indicate how agencies are distributing funds and if they are attaining their goals. Mr. Ferri recommended board members base their evaluations on 6 months of reports, the agencies' presentations, site visits, and tonight's questions. In answer to a question regarding conflicts of interest, Mr. Ferri said board members who sit on the boards of agencies applying for funds, cannot evaluate those agencies' programs. He suggested members also refrain from questioning those agencies tonight. In response to a question, he said his department's funds are based on projections of funds unexpended at the end of the fiscal year from this year's allocation. These figures will be adjusted as appropriate. Mr. Ferri said he is proud of his staff and their effectiveness in moving available funds to meet local needs. Mr. Ferri said the City's two professional loan officers package loans for bankers, including refinancing first mortgages. Some refinancing of high first mortgage rates provide property owners with enough capital to rehabilitate their homes with no investment of public funds except for staff time. Many clients' payments are lowered. Processing loans often is labor intensive. Clients spend time with staff rather than with loan officers. b) June 6, 1996, Annual Report to the City Commission Chair Moran encouraged all board members to attend the June 6, 1996, City Commission meeting when NAHAB's Annual Report is presented. The board helps the City decide how $2-million per year is spent. ITEM #5 - New Business - None. ITEM #6 - Announcements a) Next Scheduled Regular Meeting - June 18, 1996 The housing element of the State Comprehensive Plan will be introduced. b) Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan Mr. Ferri said NAHAB is the board of record for the housing element of the City's 10-year comprehensive plan. He will distribute the housing element for NAHAB review. NAHAB also will review the economic development element of the comprehensive plan. Every 5 years, the City evaluates and reviews the plan which lists agencies the City funds and their goals. Mr. Ferri reported a City consultant will help document the analysis of impediments to fair housing required by the federal government. When completed, NAHAB will review the analysis. It was questioned if agencies can make presentations to NAHAB before October 1996. Economic Development Assistant Director Michael Holmes said agencies are not guaranteed funds until contracts are executed in October. Mr. Ferri suggested scheduling agencies funded in FY (fiscal year) 1995/96 who had not addressed the board. It was requested agencies be so scheduled. It was suggested more than one agency address each meeting. Reports allow agencies to market their services to citizens via C-View TV. It was suggested to limit agencies to one speaker and reduce presentation time to 5 or 10 minutes. Answers to many board questions are contained in materials the agencies provide. It was requested members limit questions. The level of the public services allocation was questioned. Mr. Ferri reported the City is capped at 15% of the entitlement award for public services. This year's CDBG award was reduced $30,000 to $1,055,000. No more than $150,000 can be spent on public services although $261,827 was requested. He said additional funds will be available though HOME, SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership), and anticipated program income from the City. The total pool of allocated funds is estimated to be $2.2-million. The meeting recessed from 6:43 to 7:00 p.m. Consolidated Plan Agency Presentations Community Response Team - Project: Code Enforcement - Request: $175,000 Lt. Jeff Kronschnabl, Special Assistant to the City Manager, CRT (Community Response Team), said the CRT has established a community partnership working toward voluntary code compliance. The program has hired and trained neighborhood residents. The Neighborhood Service Center program encourages education, communication, and cooperation within the neighborhood. The CRT works with CNHS (Clearwater Neighborhood Housing Services), North Greenwood Association, Old Clearwater Bay Association, South Greenwood Citizens for Progressive Action, Tampa Bay Urban League, Ministerial Alliance, Homeless Prevention Services, Salvation Army, etc., to remove negative incentives and instill pride and leadership in neighborhoods in transition. The CRT has achieved half their goal in the North Greenwood neighborhood. Hurdles include funding, understanding, cooperation, etc. If the program is not funded, the City will provide one inspector for North Greenwood and one for South Greenwood. Lt. Kronschnabl reported funds accrued during an inspector vacancy. A secretary also retired. He said it is difficult to fill positions without guaranteed funding. An inspector trained in minimum housing is transferring to the position and a bilingual intern and temporary employee have been hired. Most of the accrued funds will be spent on these positions. In response to a question, he said the monthly rent for 1000 Vine Avenue is $400, not including utilities. It was noted NAHAB and TAB (Technical Advisory Board) will question and rate the agencies. In answer to a question, Mr. Ferri said information missing from the CRT application was due to copying problems. An inconsistency was noted regarding salary and benefits listed in the narrative and a line item. Lt. Kronschnabl said the inconsistency was based on projected staffing levels. He hoped a City match will cover new projections due to increased salaries. The salary and benefit figure used at the program's inception has not changed. City departments, including Project Nucops, the Police, Fire, and Solid Waste Department support the CRT. He estimated the City match is 50:50. Lt. Kronschnabl said much of the City is in transition as most housing stock is at least 20 years old. The CRT wants to maintain a standard. He said the CRT's greatest accomplishment is the community partnership that has resulted in Clearwater's recovery. He hoped the City will set a national standard. Community Services Foundation - Project: Fair Housing - Request: $6,300 Project: Home Ownership Training -Request: $9,000 Project: Rental Housing - Request: $45,000 Project: Public Facility - Request: $3,000 Project: Public Services - Request: $49,100 Sam Evans, Director of CSF (Clearwater Services Foundation), said CSF was one of the first local organizations to address fair housing problems by educating the public and helping with enforcement. CSF has initialed an agreement for one staff member to work several hours each week with the CRT. CSF negotiates with landlords on behalf of those who have concerns regarding fair housing and advises tenants of their rights and obligations. In answer to a question, Mr. Evans said the CRT's viability makes CSF's fair housing program more effective. The CRT's daily community visits allow fair housing problems to be addressed more thoroughly. He said more fair housing problems can be addressed by pooling CSF and CRT resources. Regarding Home Ownership Training, Mr. Evans said the program helps clients buy the houses City agencies rehabilitate or build as in-fill. CSF works with Condon Gardens, Partners in Self Sufficiency, Tampa Bay CDC (Community Development Corporation), CNHS, and area banks and mortgage companies. This program, geared to participants without serious credit problems, includes 3 budget and 2 mortgage classes. No other agency provides a similar service. Regarding the Public Facility request, Mr. Evans announced Foundation Village's family neighborhood center received the Tampa Bay Community Reinvestment Corporation's developer award for the most resourceful amenities package. The center, which needs computers, offers family budget help, counseling, reading classes, child care, etc. If not funded, CSF will seek other sources. The program plans to teach computer skills to 20 children a month. Adults also are welcome. Regarding Rental Housing, Mr. Evans said CSF plans to develop a six-unit Foundation Village Apartments 2 with a separate character. Both complexes could share common maintenance. He estimated the land can be purchased for $45,000. Regarding Public Services, Mr. Evans said this program helps people stay in their homes, find jobs and health care, pay bills, etc. A client is assessed by an intake person who identifies problems, recommends services, and directs the client to a counselor for additional help. Help may include rental referral, utility funds, etc. Clients who request help more than twice a year are required to attend short term budgeting classes. The monthly bill submitted to the City is based on services provided. The program has 2 full-time and several part-time positions. One full-time person will help with fair housing. He estimated the program will serve 2,660 people this year. Telephone service is not counted. Mr. Evans said most of CSF's office space is used for housing assistance. It was questioned if fundraising costs match revenues received. Mr. Evans said that figure is incorrect and he will forward a correction. CNHS (Clearwater Neighborhood Housing Services) - Project: Economic Development - Request $92,800 Project: Housing Rehab - Request $232,426 Project: Down Payment Assistance - Request $32,314 Project: In-Fill Housing - Request $489,015 Isay Gulley, CNHS Executive Director, said CNHS has worked in partnership with the City since 1979. CNHS' objective and mission are to address housing rehabilitation, economic development, and home ownership. Nancy Hansen, CNHS Economic Development Specialist, said their Economic Development project will use $80,000 for loanable funds and $12,800 for program delivery expenses. CNHS will lend four businesses at least $20,000 to relocate to an area the City has designated as slum and blight. Funds will help locate businesses into the area and expand existing businesses. Objectives include job creation, elimination of slum and blight, benefits to residents, and micro-business assistance. CNHS provides technical assistance, business plan preparation, marketing program materials, and cash flow projections. The program will assist at least 7 businesses with business plans and 60 potential or existing businesses with technical assistance. More than 7,000 North Greenwood neighborhood residents will be provided access to goods and services which currently are not available, convenient, or reasonably priced. CNHS combines CDBG funds with a bankers' micro-loan pool. She predicted this year's goals will be met. Every staff member is involved with economic development and revitalization. CDBG funds will be used in the North Greenwood community. Micro-funding has not been used outside that area but can be. Jerry Spilatro, Assistant Executive Director of CNHS, referred to the Housing Rehabilitation Program which plans to use $197,000 to assist 28 low and moderate income families rehabilitate their homes and $3,000 to relocate families who cannot stay in their homes while rehabilitation occurs. Funds will cover emergency repairs and minor and substantial home rehabilitation. He said $32,426 will be used toward CNHS' $92,121 annual operating budget for this program. The average assisted family has two members. Many are widowed. Most loans will be used in the North Greenwood neighborhood which will create construction jobs. Mr. Spilatro said this year, CNHS has fallen behind with their home rehabilitation objectives. Eight projects, 57% of their goal, have been completed. Title and equity problems have slowed the program. The exteriors of 23 homes, rehabilitated during Partnership '95, are not reflected in CNHS' numbers. This first effort took a great deal of time to organize. He said 2 projects should close this month and noted 9 applicants are being reviewed. Rehabilitation loans are CNHS' top priority. Mr. Spilatro said the program would collapse if not funded and North Greenwood could not remove blight and preserve its housing stock. Property values would decrease, the quality of life and community image would not improve, and a safe and healthy living environment would not be provided. He anticipated CNHS will expend most of the $191,000 remaining in the account. In answer to a question, Mr. Spilatro said administrative costs for each rehabilitation relate to the project's size. He estimated administrative costs for emergency repairs are $1,000. Staff time can cost as much as $5,000 to monitor the provision of services by construction specialists, appraisals, title exams, and the preparation of intake applications for the loan committee. In answer to a question, Mr. Spilatro agreed administrative costs are similar to those for building an in-fill house. CNHS only will consider rehabilitations if loan values can be recouped. Regarding the Down Payment Assistance program, Mr. Spilatro said $25,000 will be given directly to at least 10 families for downpayment assistance. The program is new but the need is great. He anticipated CNHS will reach this program's goals by July. Without funding, the lowest income families will not be helped. Regarding the In-Fill Housing program, Mr. Spilatro said this program demands the most money. Of this request, $314,000 will buy approximately 30 vacant lots and $110,000 will be used to sell the land to homeowners. He said $63,000 will cover one-third of the program's operating budget. He estimated 25 families will be placed in homes and noted the program helps many more. CNHS's home-ownership classes have been offered to 150 families and many families receive individual credit counseling. The program, short of this year's goals, has 40 families on the waiting list. CNHS recently added 15 lots to their inventory to accommodate 20 waitlisted families. The program has placed 71 low and moderate income families in new homes and impacted positively the North Greenwood neighborhood. Ms. Gulley distributed information regarding each program. She said CRT and CNHS programs work "hand-in-hand." She felt it is unfair for the City to cite people for conditions they cannot repair due to credit or income disadvantages. CNHS provides a safety net for North and South Greenwood neighborhoods. It was questioned why charges of $190 for office space and $52 for materials are listed throughout all CNHS budget reports. Ms. Gulley said CNHS programs are housed under the same umbrella and expenses, such as rent, are divided among them. Career Options - F.K.A. PPIC (Pinellas Private Industry Council) Project: Youth Builders - Request $32,938 Project: Public Services - Request $39,347 Donald Rutledge, Program Coordinator for Youth Programs for North County PPIC, distributed information. PPIC requested funding for 49% of the Youth Builders' $147,116 budget. He said JWB (Juvenile Welfare Board) approved funding for 19% of the program and board members will cover 19% to 20% of the budget. Employer contributions also are expected. PPIC will cover 5% of the budget. The program targets youth who live in Condon Gardens and North and South Greenwood Avenue neighborhoods. Others who live in public housing and are at risk in school also can apply. The program addresses those who risk dropping out of school and those who have dropped out. All participants must return to some type of educational program. The program proposes to serve 25 persons between 16 and 21. The program is being expanded to 26 weeks to improve basic skills. Without City funding, the program will not exist. Mr. Rutledge said 80% of participants are placed in private sector jobs. Those who attend school work part-time. After completing school, participants work full-time. Participants have received experience working at Morton Plant Hospital, accounting, law, and insurance firms, etc. Mr. Rutledge said the basic skills of some program participants are up to 6 years behind their grade level. The program will have eight full- and part-time staff. The school system's certified teacher will work at least 26 weeks. An aide will help with the basic skills' lab and other classroom training. Mr. Rutledge said $32,938 has been budgeted for stipends. Payments are considered "stipends" as students do not provide a service. Once participants begin work, the program covers half their wage. In answer to a question, Mr. Rutledge said many participants need the stipend for school supplies, clothing, helping their families, and child care needs. To encourage at-risk students to attend 4 evenings per week, the program pays participants $4.25 per hour for classroom training if they pass a portion of the program and attend classes. In answer to expressed concerns, Mr. Ferri said the application qualifies under two funding categories based on the way it was constructed. In answer to a question, Mr. Rutledge said to succeed, both program parts need to be approved. He said without incentives, most participants will drop out of the program. Youth need clothing to begin work. The program meets approximately 12 hours per week. Concern was expressed youth may attend classes for the stipend and not to learn. Mr. Rutledge said the life skills program includes workshops on budgeting, drugs and alcohol, leadership, and citizenship. Community service projects also are included. Participants must meet their goals within specified time limits. Homeless Emergency Project - Project: Rental Housing - Request $100,000 Barbara Green, Administrator for Everybody's Tabernacle HEP (Homeless Emergency Project), said funds will be used toward the construction of a 6-apartment building with 4 3-bedroom and 2 2-bedroom apartments for families with disabilities, substance abuse problems, mental illness, etc. The project will help families who cannot survive without continued support. The apartments will replace old mobile homes and serve 6 families in 32 beds. She said over 35 years, the facility will serve 70 families with 350 individuals. Current staff serves the mobile homes. If funding is not provided, problems will result as the request covers 25% of construction costs. In answer to a question, Ms. Green said the last bid received was in the $380,000 range. The land is raw and needs soil testing. Utilities are installed but paving may need to be changed. Without funding, Ms. Green said they will continue patching the mobile homes. The mobile homes remain empty because of necessary repair work. They have been unable to obtain grants to repair the roofs. In answer to a question, Ms. Green said she did know the value of the Everybody's Tabernacle property. Everybody's Tabernacle owns 30 houses which are used for emergency and transitional housing and leased to HEP for $1 a year. Four units are used for permanent housing. The mobile homes are more than 27 years old. Habitat for Humanity - Project: In-Fill Housing - Request $50,000 Dick Giebner, Operations Manager for Pinellas Habitat for Humanity, said his organization is dedicated to eliminating poverty housing and building houses people can afford. Participants must provide 400 hours of sweat equity and $500 before they can move into their home. The request is to purchase between 5 and 10 lots in Clearwater to continue the program and serve between 20 and 40 people. The program's entire staff will participate in the operation. Staff includes Mr. Giebner, a part-time office manager, and four part-time site supervisors. Their 24-member board remains involved. Between 200 and 300 people volunteer for each house. The organization owns no more Clearwater lots. Tampa Bay CDC (Community Development Corporation) - Project: Home Buyers Club - Request $25,000 Project: Down Payment Assistance - Request $186,000 Randy Harvey, Program Coordinator for the Home Buyers Club, said the City pays draw down funds as the program serves Clearwater residents. Services include financial counseling, goal setting, plan development, motivation, long term support, and monitoring. Approximately 70% of the budget is used to deliver these services. Mr. Harvey said 22% of the budget covers operations and 8% is for administration costs. The program currently has 113 member families from Clearwater with 328 individuals. The current rate of growth is 150% a year and accelerating. He projected participation will increase. The program is funded in three installments: 1) when the family enters the program; 2) when the family qualifies for a home purchase loan; and 3) when the purchase is completed. The program, on target to meet its annual goal, recently entered into agreement with Partners in Self-Sufficiency and is involved with the Willowbrook Clearwater Housing Authority program. It is short of its goal regarding purchases. He noted where participants purchase homes is out of their control. The program has one full-time employee and two part-time counselors. He anticipated another part-time counselor will be needed. The program will continue if it is not funded. When St. Petersburg did not participate, St. Petersburg residents were not accepted in the program. He said 10% of the program's funds come from private sources and he expected those funds would be allocated fairly across the County. Greg Schwartz, Director of Tampa Bay CDC, referred to the Down Payment Assistance Program. He said $57,000 of the request will be used for down payment loans for 30 households and $129,600 will be used to purchase two properties, rehabilitate them, and sell them to new home buyers. The down payment assistance program will help qualified participants purchase Willowbrook units. Of the 30 to 35 households that participate, he estimated 60 to 70 people will benefit from the program. He did not know why Clearwater property purchases have decreased. His organization annually assists between 250 and 300 families purchase housing in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The program employs 4 full-time staff to process loans and 2 part-time contract employees. If the City does not fund it, the program will continue countywide but will be unable to assist 30 first time buyers purchase homes. It was questioned what experience Tampa Bay CDC has with acquisition rehab. Mr. Schwartz said in 1989, the program was established as an acquisition rehab program. Since then, Tampa Bay CDC has rehabilitated and sold 85 properties in Pinellas County. In 1992, the program received a $1-million HUD grant. Tampa Bay CDC has rehabilitated and sold properties and recycled their funds. They acquire property, rehabilitate it, then make it available to first time home buyers. Regarding CDC profits, Ms. Schwartz said properties are sold for their appraised value and dollars received at closing are returned to the pool for recycling. A developer or technical fee to process the property and overhead fees are charged. He estimated those costs, which include loan processing, at $4,800 per unit or an 8% fee for a $60,000 property. Down payment assistance is charged a $400 fee per loan closed. In answer to a question, Mr. Schwartz said $57,000 is set aside for down-payment assistance. He projected $45,000 would fund 30 loans at $1,500 per loan. The program can fund buyers with qualifying incomes and credit for the 28 unit Willowbrook project. AIDS Service Association - Project: Public Facility - Request $92,211 Lyman Hussey, Deputy Director of the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas, Inc., requested funding for the Chicken Soup Project to teach people with HIV and AIDS to eat safely and make healthy food choices. The organization's more than 1,000 clients include many adolescents. The program will hire a nutritionist and two Vista volunteers to meet the needs of those with immune compromised systems. He estimated reconfiguring the facility, including furnishings, will cost $69,000. The request includes travel funds for the nutritionist and Vista expense funds. The learning process could help 12 people a month, or 144 per year. One class would graduate each month. He said the requested funds can improve the HIV/AIDS community and life for all. In answer to a question, Mr. Ferri said the program had not received a copy of the May 17, 1996, staff memorandum from Construction Specialist Jeff Daines regarding remodeling the building. A copy will be forwarded. If not funded, Mr. Hussey said the organization could not undertake this project but will remain in its current building. The building probably will not get hot water. He said several local agencies serve the HIV/AIDS community. The organization's executive director conceived the Chicken Soup Project. In answer to a question, Mr. Hussey said the legal profession provides some pro bono work for the organization and clients. The medical community is compensated through Medicaid, Medicare, and other programs. Clearwater Homeless Intervention Project - Project: Public Facility - Request $225,000 Sid Klein, Chief of Police and Chair of CHIP (Clearwater Homeless Intervention Project), explained CHIP is a coalition of organizations that deal with the homeless: 1) St. Vincent de Paul Society; 2) Salvation Army; 3) Clearwater Housing Authority; and 4) Clearwater Police Department. Advisory board members represent many organizations including the Pinellas County Coalition for the Homeless. If funding is approved, matching funds from Pinellas County's CDBG grant have been confirmed. St. Vincent de Paul Society has promised to contribute $100,000. The project also may qualify for $200,000 from HRS. The grant funds will be used to construct an emergency shelter for homeless persons on the St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen premises. The facility will house a Community Policing substation staffed by 5 new Police Officers and a Police Sergeant. The City received a federal grant to cover this project's policing expenses. The shelter will accommodate 48 persons daily. Chief Klein estimated the shelter will serve 1,772 clients annually with a minimum staff of 8 which will be funded separately. Without funding, the project will lose matches from Pinellas County and St. Vincent de Paul, the shelter will not be built, the homeless and transient population on City streets will increase, and the current shelter will close. If funding is approved, construction will begin immediately. An architect is under contract and the facility has been designed. It was questioned if the crime level among transients has declined since homeless shelters opened. Chief Klein said the Police Department and St. Vincent de Paul have established a registration system and a Police Officer is assigned to the kitchen daily. The number of hard core transients in the City has diminished significantly but numbers have increased in cities South of Clearwater. Chief Klein said the program anticipates clients will stay between 3 and 5 days before transferring to transitional housing, job placement, counseling, and referrals to services designed to move clients off the street and into jobs. Chief Klein indicated a source for operating funds has not been established. Initial funding will come from the Salvation Army. Head Start - Project: Public Facility - Request $13,751 Ed Dickey, Head Start Training Coordinator, said Head Start, a child development and family service agency, has served Pinellas County since 1967. The program works in partnership with the City which owns their Missouri Avenue facility. The request will build a covered walkway from the main building to the modular classrooms to protect staff and children from inclement weather. The program currently serves 60 three-year olds and their families. After completion of the new building, more children will be served. Demand for Head Start services has increased and a waiting list exists. The program has 11 staff members including 8 who serve four classrooms, a cook, custodian, and bus driver. Requested funds also will be used to match federal funds. He estimated the program could lose $68,000 in funding for local Head Start programs if this request is not approved. Mr. Dickey said he has been unable to identify another source for this funding and indicated the program will be devastated if funding is denied. RCS - Spouse Abuse Shelter Outreach - Project: Public Facility - Request $21,259 Linda Amidei, Director of the Haven of RCS (Religious Community Services, Inc.), said the Haven was formerly known as the Spouse Abuse Shelter. Since 1980, the Haven has provided services to victims of domestic violence. The request will cover about half the cost to renovate their recently purchased Garden Avenue building. One building will be razed and the two-story cinderblock structure will be reconfigured to better serve clients at the outreach office. Renovations will provide ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility to the first floor, adequate parking, central heat and air, and reconfiguring walls to provide adequate space. Currently, the program serves more than 8,000 outreach clients through individual, group, and telephone counseling, legal advocacy, and services. She estimated the program could serve 500 more clients if staff time is used more efficiently and the building is redesigned. All service requests currently cannot be accepted. It is difficult to provide outreach youth services similar to services provided in the shelter. Some adults also cannot be served. Ms. Amidei said the program's goal is to intervene and prevent domestic violence and the homelessness that can result. After they leave the shelter, victims are assisted with injunctions for protection, cellular phones to stalking victims, help developing safety plans, etc. Renovations will allow the facility to house sufficient staff to meet current needs. Outreach service requests have increased 40%. Staff includes the program operations manager, a volunteer coordinator, 5 counselors/victim advocates, and 70 volunteers. Support staff includes the director, administrative assistant, and 2 youth advocates. If not funded, services would be continued inefficiently. Mr. Ferri said the Haven needs to apply for a variance from State ADA requirements. As making the building's second floor ADA accessible would be cost prohibitive, the Haven plans to provide all services on the first floor. The variance will take two months to obtain. Groups can meet on the 1st floor. Services will not be encumbered if ADA accessibility is limited to the 1st floor. In answer to a question, Ms. Amidei said the property was purchased with a portion of RCS's capital campaign to expand outreach services. The adjacent lot was purchased for added security. YWCA - Project: Public Facility - Request $3,000 Judy Wood Ganisin, Director of Communications for the YWCA of Tampa Bay, said the YWCA has served Clearwater for 77 years addressing child abuse, illiteracy, education, homelessness, and affordable quality child care. Since 1991, the Clearwater facility has received a great deal of rehabilitation work. The request will replace the leaking roof over the education wing which houses: 1) drop out prevention program for pregnant and parenting adolescents; 2) GED preparation for young parents; and 3) a child care center where young parents learn positive parenting skills. Most participants return to neighborhood schools to earn diplomas or GEDs and become productive community members. The program serves between 200 and 210 individuals annually. If funding is not granted, the program will continue. The GED program was moved to the multi-purpose room where acoustics are poor. She expressed concern ceiling damage will become more extensive, resulting in higher repair costs. Boys & Girls Clubs - Project: Public Services - Request $16,000 Rosalie Murray, Director of Individual Services for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast, Inc., said the Boys & Girls Club has served Condon Gardens since 1988. The request would cover half the program director's salary, 25 hours of clerical staff salary, and a small portion of the unit director's salary. In 1995, at their Condon Gardens facility, the program served 388 boys and girls including 188 members and 200 served in other outreach programming. Three staff members serve the Condon Gardens program which is meeting its goals. The program emphasizes youth development and provides guidance as many participants do not receive adequate guidance at home. Participants do homework and learn to get along with others. The program teaches children positive alternatives to drugs and helps with some sexual issues through girl talk and boy talk groups. The program's summer theme, centering on the Olympics, will provide County-wide competition. Participants are between 6 and 17-years old. In answer to a question, Ms. Murray said the number of children estimated to be served in 1996 was mistakenly inflated She estimated the program will serve 300 children. Girls Inc. of Pinellas - Project: Public Services - Request $24,750 Tim Caddell, Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Pinellas, said the request is for two program instructors at Condon Gardens. The center has a full time director and is budgeted for two part-time program instructors and a tutor. Staff currently shifts between centers to cover the shortfall. The two positions will work 25 hours a week during the school year (41 weeks) and 40 - 45 hours a week during the summer. The program will serve at least 100 girls. The program provides transportation to the Condon Gardens center from North Greenwood. If not funded, the agency will try to continue this program. The request does not cover administration expenses. In answer to a question, Mr. Caddell said the $16,000 request is in addition to the $24,750 budgeted for the center's full-time director's salary and fringe. It was questioned how the participants would be served if the program did not exist. Mr. Caddell said the program has served Condon Gardens since 1974, evolving to meet changing needs. The program addresses adolescent pregnancy prevention with Operation Smart's science, mathematics, and education programs. Participants have improved their grades and grade level skills. Partners in Self-Sufficiency - Project: Public Services - Request $35,000 Sylvia Costello, Executive Director of PSS (Partners in Self-Sufficiency), said the 10-year old program was the first self-sufficiency program in Pinellas County. This request will fund a full-time executive director and part-time administrative assistant. The program, which is meeting their established goals, will serve up to 120 clients. As current numbers have dropped, staff is marketing the program. The Partners in Home Ownership workshop program was created this year with a goal of at least 5% of PSS participants becoming homeowners within one year. PSS entered into agreement with the Home Buyers Club Tampa Bay CDC, CNHS, CSF, the Clearwater Housing Authority, and the Family Incentive Program to provide this program to PSS clients and Condon Garden and public housing residents. Establishing a client escrow account is a program component. PSS views home ownership as a part of self-sufficiency to encourage participants to remain independent and not return to welfare rolls. PSS's staff includes a full-time executive director, a part-time administrative assistant, a part-time secretary, and an in-kind Clearwater Housing Authority case worker who provides housing assistance. The program now provides individual case management for clients. The board of directors meets monthly and has adopted a more active role in the program. Ms. Costello hopes to increase program participants from 70 to 120 by October 1, 1996. When participation increases, the program will need to add a case management position. The program applied to Pinellas County for a half-time staff person to counsel clients regarding home ownership. The home ownership program is time intensive as clients require intensive one-to-one counseling and support. Concern was expressed the program is shifting goals from self-sufficiency to home ownership. Ms. Costello said home ownership is an important part of self-sufficiency and helps clients increase their equity. In answer to a question, Ms. Costello said the request would fund salaries for current staff positions but not fringe. The new full-time case manager position was funded for 9-months from the agency's reserve fund. She said figures attributed to in-kind services from the Clearwater Housing Authority were based on an old agreement. If the grant is not approved, Ms. Costello said the program would face major problems. She would approach CHS for more in-kind services. The board has adopted an aggressive fund raising campaign. The agency has a $20,000 reserve. Pinellas Opportunity Council - Project: Public Services - Request $27,414 Joan Lanier, Project Director with the Chore Services Program for the POC (Pinellas Opportunity Council), said the program has served Pinellas County for 19 years, helping elderly remain at home by providing heavy household cleaning and yard maintenance. She distributed an album of before and after pictures. The program's request will cover two salaries at $4.58 an hour plus fringe. One salary was funded last year. The program will serve 60 clients. Ms. Lanier said cleaning one home can take between one and five days depending on the buildup of junk and debris. Yard work may take longer. The program has 17 workers and is exceeding their objectives. Staff includes a client services supervisor who evaluates client situations and establishes priority, a staff supervisor who trains and supervisors cleaning staff and provides technical assistance, a maintenance person who maintains equipment and vehicles, and a data entry person. Without funding, one worker would be laid off and another would be limited to 8-months work. It was questioned if elderly participants have family members. Ms. Lanier said primary care givers sometimes are children in their seventies who also need help. Some participants cannot count on relatives. In answer to a question, she said one hour of direct service equals one unit of service. As the program maintains a 2,500 person waitlist, homes no longer are visited annually. Clients are served according to priority. The condition of some homes is so poor, home health aides, homemakers, and those who deliver meals will not enter. This program is the only one of its kind in Pinellas County. Referrals come from aging network providers, HRS, Pinellas County, cities, law enforcement, hospitals, the CRT, etc. She said Pinellas County has funded one staff position for a decade. Salvation Army - Project: Public Services - Request $51,186 Ed Brandt, Director of the Homeless Intervention Program for the Salvation Army of Clearwater, said the request is for salaries and fringe for 2 full-time and 1 part-time shelter staff. The program has 6 staff members. Volunteers include a psychologist who serves 3 nights a week and a psychiatrist who serves as needed. Other agencies also provide services. The program serves more than 2,000 persons annually. He anticipated the shelter will serve 720 next year. Staff is expected to act professionally and participants are not permitted to treat the shelter like a "flop house." Each participant receives individual attention from staff. In the past 6 months, 150 of the 358 persons served by the shelter have found jobs, 79 have entered a rehabilitation program, and 114 are classified as "other." Those classified as "other" had been transients whom the Salvation Army worked with, helping them contact family members who wired them money to come home. "Failures" decide street life is where they want to be. Contact with the Salvation Army has made these individuals aware positive change is possible. In the past 6 months, the program provided 2,551 nights of individual shelter. The average guest stays 7 nights. Mr. Brandt said the Salvation Army is committed to run a homeless intervention program in Clearwater. Without funding, the caliber of employees may not be as high. Current salary levels are adequate to attract a professional staff. He suggested lower salary levels will attract "homeless baby-sitters." Mr. Brandt said staff will move to the new shelter when it is completed and the current site closes. Everybody's Tabernacle and Quest Inn also provide homeless services in North County. The Salvation Army's daily case management approach is structured. A follow-up program is being developed. The Salvation Army meets bi-weekly with Pinellas County homeless agencies for team case meetings. Four agencies currently participate and share cases. Mr. Brandt serves with Chief Klein on the CHIP advisory board. The Salvation Army has been involved with the CHIP program since conception. ITEM #7 - Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.