Orange County NC Website
Browse       Search
4 <br /> Each year, local communities are required to reassess the needs of the community. This public <br /> hearing provides an opportunity for the public, public agencies and other interested parties to <br /> provide input into the Annual Action Plan Update. In addition, the public may comment on <br /> proposed uses of an estimated $348,265 in 2017-2018 funds. Orange County is in the third <br /> year of the Five Year Consolidated Plan. Information regarding the actual Congressional <br /> allocation is not available at this time. Eligible HOME Program activities include: acquisition; <br /> new construction; housing rehabilitation; and rental assistance. <br /> Since the approval of the Consolidated Housing Plan in May 2015, Orange County residents <br /> approved a bond referendum of$5 million dollars on November 8, 2016, designed to help <br /> create up to 1,000 affordable units throughout the county. With the passage of the bond, <br /> Orange County will be able to assist in adding affordable rentals, homeownership opportunity <br /> and address other housing needs of low-to-moderate income citizens. The needs assessment, <br /> data goals and strategies provided in the Consolidated Housing Plan were incorporated into <br /> the development of the Affordable Housing Strategic Plan. <br /> The 2017 Annual Action Plan will be submitted to HUD on or before May 15, 2017 after <br /> approval by the HOME Consortium Members: Orange County, the Town of Carrboro, the Town <br /> of Chapel Hill, and the Town of Hillsborough. In order to inform the general public of this <br /> opportunity and encourage participation, notices had been placed in The Chapel Hill News and <br /> The Herald-Sun, sent to local non-profit agencies and placed on local websites. <br /> Chair Dorosin said there is an attachment in the agenda that shows a good match up of <br /> the two programs. <br /> Commissioner McKee asked if any of the monies from last year were reverted. <br /> Audrey Spencer-Horsley said all monies have been allocated, and it is expected for all <br /> monies to be expended. <br /> Commissioner Rich asked if it is known when the County will learn the exact amount of <br /> funding that will be received. <br /> Audrey Spencer-Horsley said probably late spring. <br /> Commissioner Price said it will probably be after April. <br /> PUBLIC COMMENT: <br /> Delores Bailey said she is the Executive Director of Empowerment, which is one of the <br /> largest landlords for affordable rentals in Orange County. She said her agency uses HOME <br /> dollars, amongst other funding sources. She said there is a huge need for affordable rentals in <br /> Orange County. She said her agency buys and renovates homes, as there is not enough time <br /> to build homes, and over 80% of their tenants are housing choice voucher holders, with the <br /> rest being senior and residents with disabilities. She said her agency is requesting dollars to <br /> continue its mission. <br /> A motion was made by Commissioner Burroughs, seconded by Commissioner Price to <br /> close the public hearing. <br /> VOTE: UNANIMOUS <br /> 6. Consent Agenda <br /> • Removal of Any Items from Consent Agenda <br />