Executive Summary

ES-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b) 1. Introduction

The City of Hot Springs has prepared the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan as a requirement to receive Federal Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program funds. It is a strategic plan addressing low- and moderate-income housing, community and economic development needs. The Consolidated Plan provides a five-year road map that explains how and why Federal funding for housing, community and economic development activities is expected to be used.

What is the Consolidated Plan? The Consolidated Plan is a planning document that identifies the decent, affordable housing, community, and economic development short- and long-term needs, goals, priorities, and objectives. It also outlines strategies and timetables for achieving priorities and objectives. It is a requirement of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and must be developed by entitlement communities in order to receive CDBG program funding.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 1 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The Consolidated Plan asks each community to state how it plans to achieve local objectives in accordance with the statutory goals of all Federally-funded community development programs: to provide decent housing, a suitable living environment and to expand economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals and families.

The Consolidated Plan serves four (4) primary functions. First, it is a planning document for the community, built upon public participation and input. Second, it serves as the application for housing and community development funds through HUD formula grant programs, of which the City of Hot Springs is eligible to directly receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program funds. Third, the Consolidated Plan defines local housing and community development priorities. Fourth, the Consolidated Plan is a five-year strategy that the City will follow each fiscal year to implement HUD programs locally.

The Consolidated Plan describes the lead agency responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of the plan and agencies, groups and organizations that participate in the process. It also includes a summary of the citizen participation process, public comments, and efforts made to broaden public participation in preparing the plan.

Purpose of the Consolidated Plan. The City of Hot Springs 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan identifies needs for housing, homelessness, community development and economic development. It also presents strategies to address those needs. This Consolidated Plan covers the period from January 2014 through December 2018.

The Consolidated Plan is built through a comprehensive research, consultation and citizen participation process. The City Planning & Development Department is the lead agency for the Consolidated Plan. The Planning & Development Department is tasked with developing and carrying out the plan. The Planning & Development Department strives to deliver efficient, effective, and caring delivery of services to the community which is serves.

How is the Consolidated Plan implemented? The City will produce five (5) Annual Action Plans under the City of Hot Springs Consolidated Plan between 2014-2018. Each Annual Action Plan describes how the City will implement projects and invest its CDBG funds during a given program year.

2. Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment Overview

The City of Hot Springs has identified the following priorities for the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan:

1. Create suitable living environments and promote decent, affordable housing initiatives 2. Encourage business / job growth through targeted infrastructure improvements 3. Provide assistance, support and resources to promote fair housing, expand neighborhood revitalization, encourage business/job growth, and strengthen Continuum of Care service efforts

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 2 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Priority 1: Create suitable living environments and promote decent, affordable housing initiatives

An effort must be made to reverse blight trends in urban, aging, historic neighborhoods where population has declined, but affordable housing remains available, and safety, livability and accessibility can be improved for low- to moderate-income and special-needs residents. By decreasing blight through the reduction of unsightly property and development of empty lots, while improving public infrastructure such as sidewalks, parks, drainage and green space low- to moderate-income neighborhoods will be reinvigorated, livable and reinvested. City resources will be leveraged to minimize the CDBG funds needed to plan, assess, estimate, manage, implement and maintain projects. Private and public investments will be stimulated to further CDBG funding impacts.

Priority 2: Encourage Business / Job Growth through targeted infrastructure improvements

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports 86% of new jobs in the current economy are created by new or expanding small to medium sized businesses already present in the local community. The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Strategic Economic Development Plan concludes that a serious risk to economic development is the continued deterioration of vacant, underutilized, historic, commercial structures in core, high traffic commercial corridors, which directly involve two (2) low- to moderate- income block groups (Downtown and Park Avenue), and an additional four (4) adjacent, mixed-use commercial/residential, arterial low- to moderate-income neighborhoods (Gateway, Whittington, greater Hobson and Albert Pike). The City of Hot Springs and State of Arkansas code requires adequate fire protection, municipal water and sewer capacity in order to obtain certificate of occupancy. These municipal infrastructure requirements to improve municipal water and sewer capacity to meet State and Local code present an undue cost burden on small and medium businesses already investing in existing building improvements and historic preservation.

Priority 3: Provide assistance, support and resources to promote fair housing, expand neighborhood revitalization, encourage business/job growth, and strengthen Continuum of Care service efforts.

To ensure the likelihood of success of CDBG funded fair housing, neighborhood revitalization and economic development infrastructure improvements, and strengthen services provided to the most at- risk by the Continuum of Care, City resources are committed to assisting in assessing needs, facilitating collaboration, inspiring leadership and planning skills, and providing support to develop shared visions, achievable plans, and coordination amongst agencies, groups and organizations. An Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study is recommended in fiscal year 2014 to re-examine and address potential barriers to affordable housing and meet federal compliance regulations.

3. Evaluation of past performance

The City of Hot Springs has received Community Development Block Grant funding for ten (10) years beginning in 2004. The original Consolidated Plan was written in 2003 planning fiscal years 2004-2009, and the most recent Consolidated Plan was written in 2009 planning fiscal years 2010-2014. The City

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 3 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Community Development program focused primarily on housing by helping low income homeowners maintain their properties, and on needed infrastructure improvements within its older low- to moderate-income neighborhoods.

2004-2013 Objective 1 - Rehabilitate existing housing stock to reduce the fallout of existing housing units from the housing inventory and impede continued deterioration of neighborhoods. This was accomplished by rehabilitating 7-12 single-family, owner-occupied, low- to moderate-income housing units per year mainly in the targeted areas of Park Avenue and Pleasant Street, and other Low to Moderate-Income neighborhoods. A total of 107 homes were brought up to City code, ADA accessibility standards and/or addressed urgent needs of health and safety enabling homeowners to remain in their homes. This program was furthered by providing home maintenance information, coordinating with volunteer organizations to provide additional home repairs as identified by City Neighborhood Services, and other support services through City of Hot Springs Staff. Minor and major repairs, up to $25,000 per qualifying home, included roofing, heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing, electrical, lead-based paint abasement, foundation repairs to stabilize the structure, replacement of doors, windows and siding to increase energy efficiency, and accessibility improvements.

2004-2013 Objective 2 - Expand neighborhood revitalization efforts through public service programs and organizations such as homebuyer education, homeownership counseling, etc. The City sponsored home buying, credit counseling and home ownership classes, free to the public, providing the knowledge necessary to acquire decent affordable homes. In addition, an Analysis to Impediments Fair Housing Study was completed in 2009 to understand areas for improvement to provide decent, affordable housing for all citizens.

2004-2013 Objective 3 - Provide and expand the affordable housing stock for low- to moderate-income families and individuals. The City supported five (5) Habitat for Humanity Villages Wheatley, Shaw, Randy Cox, Whittington, Highland and Langston through land acquisition and/or infrastructure such as sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and utility connections in an effort to expand decent, affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income families and individuals. Hot Springs waived permit fees to providers of affordable housing.

2004-2013 Objective 4 - Infrastructure installation and improvement. Projects included, but were not limited to HVAC, electric, roofing, flooring and kitchen renovations to open a Women & Children Emergency Shelter; Whittington City Park revitalization adding bathrooms and playground equipment; sidewalk improvements and installations along Pleasant Street, the National Baptist Assisted Living Center, and Whittington Avenue; and roofing improvements to the Webb Community Center.

4. Summary of citizen participation process and consultation process

The Consolidated Plan was developed through a comprehensive consultation and citizen participation process, which offered many opportunities for public input and comment, including:

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 4 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)  Due diligence consultations conducted with City of Hot Springs City Manager, Planning & Development Department, Community Development Advisory Committee, and each elected Board Director to understand the overall needs of the citizens they serve.  A needs and priority survey for residents, non-profits and businesses to communicate their comments on housing, homelessness, community development, and economic development was distributed online, via email lists and community newsletter, at four (4) City facilities, five (5) neighborhood association meetings, nineteen (19) public locations including community centers, faith-based organizations, non-profits, retail locations, places of employment, and residences, primarily in low- to moderate-income areas. Neighborhood association volunteers assisted with door to door outreach.  One (1) public hearing was held to review the results of the Citizen Survey and solicit additional public comment. Survey results were published online, made publicly available at the City Planning & Development office, and provided to City departments and Board members.  Extensive consultations with Continuum of Care, housing, homelessness, elderly, disabled, health, education, employment, fair housing, child welfare, medical/mental health, planning, business, civic, and anti-poverty agencies, groups and organizations, as well as City Departments including Planning & Development, Historic Preservation, Neighborhood Services, Code Enforcement, Public Works, Parks & Recreation, Storm Water, Fire, Police and Engineering in order to understand needs, opportunities, and formulate strategies.  Ten (10) interactive community meetings, two (2) each regarding CDBG Past Performance, Housing, Homelessness, Economic Development and Community Development for public review and comment on survey results, Census data, and information gathered from consultations.  Two (2) public hearings to garner citizen comments on the needs, objectives, and strategies defined in the Consolidated Plan.  Ongoing outreach and City staff support of low- to moderate-income neighborhoods and housing non-profits seeking CDBG funding.  Two (2) public hearings to solicit public comment regarding 2014 Annual Action Plan proposed projects for funding.  Distribution of drafts of the Consolidated Plan and 2014 Annual Action Plan followed by a 30-day public comment period.  Radio, TV, press releases and social media was used to raise awareness of opportunities for public involvement.

5. Summary of public comments

Two (2) written comments were received: One (1) expressing strong support for low- to moderate- income neighborhood infrastructure improvements; One (1) expressing concern regarding vacant commercial properties blighting the City. Both were considered and addressed in the development of this Consolidated Plan.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 5 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) During the Consolidated Plan public hearing two (2) citizens verbally requested that economic development infrastructure not be funded, and instead the funds be used for neighborhood infrastructure improvements. Strong public rebuttal and review of survey results listing Economic Development infrastructure as a high priority, as well as market analysis and consultation data, supported the proposed funding. Since it is likely that municipal infrastructure improvements to encourage economic development will be targeted as opportunities arise, a discretionary fund was included in the Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Action Plan to serve both economic development and neighborhood revitalization infrastructure needs.

6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them

A verbal comment was received during a public hearing expressing opposition to the proposed discontinuation of the owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program. The concern was rescinded after strong public rebuttal comments, and review of survey results listing housing rehabilitation as a medium priority.

7. Summary

A suitable living environment is a function of housing and a market based economy. The greatest benefit to housing from public sector resources can be obtained by a concentrated effort of neighborhood improvements and job growth. The citizen survey, public hearings and consultations ranked eight (8) of the top ten (10) priorities as neighborhood revitalization priorities. The emphasis should focus on those things for which the government has responsibility, thereby creating neighborhoods where people want and have the opportunity to live. Hot Springs is a City with many unique aging and historic neighborhoods. There is a stock of decent, affordable homes available in blighted low- to moderate- income areas. If the entire area can be improved to the public desires of a suitable living environment the odds for preservation through public and private investments is greatly increased. Improvements to revitalize and reduce blight in the seven (7) identified low- to moderate-income neighborhoods where housing remains affordable is the primary focus of this Consolidated Plan.

This Consolidated Plan provides for housing counseling with State funded down payment assistance programs, and not-for-profit new home building organization efforts to increase home-ownership and home-ownership opportunities for low- to moderate-income individuals and families. In addition, a 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study is recommended to identify any actions that may need to be taken to affirmatively further fair housing.

Hot Springs is also a city with several key industries in which decent housing affordability is a financial challenge for extremely and very low-income residents due to part-time, seasonal, commissioned or otherwise low-wage or unpredictable income, such as arts, entertainment, accommodations, service, retail, and certain entry level manufacturing and healthcare positions. Investments in infrastructure to encourage full-time, permanent job growth and new or expanded businesses development in collaboration with other Economic Development partners and educators, as well as first time home-

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 6 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) buyer education and down-payment/closing-cost financial assistance programs have been addressed in this Consolidated Plan.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 7 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The Process

PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies 24 CFR 91.200(b) 1. Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source

The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.

Agency Role Name Department/Agency Lead Agency HOT SPRINGS CDBG Administrator HOT SPRINGS Planning & Development Department HOPWA Administrator HOME Administrator HOPWA-C Administrator Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative

The City of Hot Springs Planning & Development Department, as the lead agency in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan, will coordinate efforts among its many partner organizations to ensure that the goals outlined in the Consolidated Plan are met. These partners include neighborhood residents, businesses, public agencies, faith based organizations, non-profits, Continuum of Care, developers, lenders and other for-profit entities.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information

Inquiries and comments regarding the Consolidated Plan should be directed to Mike Scott, Chief Building Official, City of Hot Springs, 133 Convention Boulevard, Hot Springs, AR, 71901, or [email protected], or (501) 321-6845.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 8 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) PR-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l) 1. Introduction

The City of Hot Springs, as the lead agency in the implementation of the Community Development Block Grant Consolidated Plan, is committed to coordinating efforts among its many partner organizations to ensure that the goals outlined in the Consolidated Plan are defined and met to meet community needs and priorities. These partners include residents, businesses, faith-based organizations, non-profit developers, lenders and other for-profit entities. In-person and telephone consultations were conducted as part of the development of this Consolidated Plan including, but not limited to City departments, housing and homeless service providers, non-profit agencies, social service agencies, the Public Housing Authority, Habitat for Humanity, low income housing tax credit (LITHC) and section 8 rental housing providers, Schools, Chamber of Commerce, Department of Health, at-risk, disabled, mental/health service providers, and government agencies.

Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(I)).

City of Hot Springs staff coordinated the efforts of the City, residents, civic and business leaders, housing providers, private and public agencies, health, mental/health and service providers in the implementation of this Consolidated Plan and in coordinating collaborative conversations and efforts amongst the many separate agencies serving homeless, veterans, youth, families, housing and shelter providers, health, mental health and other institutions potentially discharging into homelessness, and at-risk support providers. This collaboration is accomplished through regular phone and in-person meetings, consultations, neighborhood, committee and community meetings, participation in civic and Continuum of Care meetings, etc.

Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness

The City of Hot Springs Planning & Development Department remains an active member of the Southwest Arkansas Partnership (SWAP) Continuum of Care, communicating and coordinating with homeless, at-risk of homelessness, veteran, unaccompanied youth and other service providers.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 9 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction's area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards and evaluate outcomes, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the administration of HMIS

The City of Hot Springs does not receive ESG funding.

2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 10 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 1 Agency/Group/Organization HOT SPRINGS Agency/Group/Organization Type Service-Fair Housing Other government - Local Planning organization What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Lead-based Paint Strategy Economic Development Market Analysis Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy How was the The City of Hot Springs Planning & Development Agency/Group/Organization consulted Department conducted in-person meetings with City and what are the anticipated outcomes leadership and Department heads to review the of the consultation or areas for Consolidated Planning process, results of citizen surveys improved coordination? and neighborhood priorities, planned and forecasted future local/county/state/federal projects, current market, economic and housing challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Consultations were held with the City Manager, City Directors, Fire Department Chief, Director of Engineering, Public Works Director, Parks & Recreation Director, Stormwater Manager, Street Division Field Supervisor, Mapping, Chief Building Official, Neighborhood Services Division Administrator, and the Planning Coordinator regarding Historic District preservation. The objectives of this Consolidated Plan require close coordination between Community Development Block Grant, City/State/Federal projects, and other neighborhood and economic development efforts in order to assess, plan, estimate and implement projects that leverage available resources for maximum impact. 2 Agency/Group/Organization GARLAND COUNTY Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-Health Health Agency What section of the Plan was Lead-based Paint Strategy addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 11 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Local Health Unit Administrator of the Garland Agency/Group/Organization consulted County Department of Health was consulted over the and what are the anticipated outcomes phone. Services include 2,500 WIC per month, of the consultation or areas for maternity/midwife care, communicable disease improved coordination? screening, family planning, immunizations and record keeping, home health services, state inspections, community outreach training, child wellness services, and lead based paint hazard regulation oversight including certification, licensing and training for abatement activities through the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). As members of the Growing Healthy Communities initiative, the City of Hot Springs and the Garland County Department of Health will meet monthly with other related organizations to improve coordination and increase health and wellness opportunities and access in the community. 3 Agency/Group/Organization The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Agency/Group/Organization Type Business Leaders What section of the Plan was Economic Development addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the The President/CEO of the Greater Hot Springs Chamber Agency/Group/Organization consulted of Commerce was consulted in-person to understand and what are the anticipated outcomes the future economic development plans within the City of the consultation or areas for of Hot Springs and potential opportunities to leverage improved coordination? Community Development Block Grant funding for the creation of jobs/economic growth. Unsightly property and aging infrastructure such as sidewalks, lighting, drainage and parking were indicated as an inhibitor to business growth in low- and moderate-income corridors where existing commercial structures remain empty and contributing to blight. The City of Hot Springs works closely with the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce coordinating efforts to reduce commercial blight, revitalize neighborhoods through economic development and provide job and business growth opportunities.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 12 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 4 Agency/Group/Organization WEST CENTRAL ARKANSAS PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT Agency/Group/Organization Type Regional organization Planning organization What section of the Plan was Economic Development addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the An in-person consultation was held with Executive Agency/Group/Organization consulted Director of the West Central Arkansas Planning & and what are the anticipated outcomes Development District. As a not-for-profit economic of the consultation or areas for development organization WCAPDD provides its improved coordination? member cities and counties with technical assistance to obtain funding for public improvement projects, including infrastructure such as water, wastewater and industrial park improvements that will directly create jobs in a 10 county region. Services also include private sector assistance to small businesses through a Small Business Administration loans and job training programs. The City of Hot Springs and WCAPDD will remain in contact regarding collaborative economic development opportunities. 5 Agency/Group/Organization Hot Springs Housing Authority Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing PHA Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Public Housing Needs Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 13 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Executive Director and Family Self-Sufficiency Agency/Group/Organization consulted Program Coordinator were both consulted over the and what are the anticipated outcomes phone. They operate 245 one (1) to four (4) bedroom of the consultation or areas for family units, 120 units for the elderly and disabled, and improved coordination? administer approximately 658 Section 8 vouchers with a limit of five (5) years and preference for veterans, disabled and elderly applicants who pay 30% of adjusted gross income toward housing costs. There were 642 applications on the waiting list at the time of this discussion. The Family Self Sufficiency Program is a voluntary program for people receiving rent subsidies. It includes goal setting, budgeting, employment or higher education, and an escrow savings plan that matches the difference in rent as adjusted gross income rises. A Coordinator works with residents to assess needs, connect them to the services including health screening, distribute commodities such as food, monitor for dementia/Alzheimer's, and behavioral patterns. Challenges include resident addiction and mental illness, and a need for single bedroom units for the elderly and disabled. The City of Hot Springs will coordinate with the Family Self Sufficiency Program to provide first time home-buyer education classes with financial assistance. In addition, this Consolidated Plan could assist with the Housing Authority's future plans to build affordable housing units for the elderly and disabled by waiving permitting fees, and as approved, land acquisition and/or infrastructure needs. 6 Agency/Group/Organization Habitat for Humanity Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 14 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the An in-person meeting and site tour of completed homes Agency/Group/Organization consulted and those under construction was held with the and what are the anticipated outcomes Resource Development Manager. The Garland County of the consultation or areas for Habitat for Humanity completes approximately eight (8) improved coordination? new two (2) to four (4) bedroom homes per year with an average $250/month payment with insurance escrow on a twenty (20) year no interest loan. A twelve (12) person screening committee reviews approximately 100 applications each year to assess need, willingness to partner and ability to pay. Accepted homebuyers must attend classes on budgeting, home ownership responsibilities, home maintenance and affordable nutrition. In addition, they perform 250-350 volunteer hours, undergo a credit check, background check and reference checks, and are responsible for approximately $800 in closing costs. At least one (1) handicapped accessible unit is built each year for a disabled homeowner. Home construction costs run $50,000 to $55,000 per unit. Community Development Block Grant Funds from the City of Hot Springs have provided infrastructure such as curb and gutter, utility connections or sidewalk and/or land acquisition in all Habitat projects completed in the last ten (10) years. Additional funds are raised through faith-based organizations, private donations, in-kind donations and the Habitat for Humanity Restore local resale shop. No changes to the home building strategy are planned. A home rehabilitation program, A Brush with Kindness, has been implemented in other cities by Habitat for Humanity and may be roll-out in Hot Springs in the future. The City of Hot Springs Neighborhood Services Division continues to work with Habitat for Humanity to identify and coordinate vacant lots suitable for home building. 7 Agency/Group/Organization CULTURAL CAMPUS Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Service-Fair Housing What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 15 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the An in-person interview was conducted with the Agency/Group/Organization consulted managers of the seventy (70) rental-unit Cultural and what are the anticipated outcomes Campus. Currently five (5) units are occupied by of the consultation or areas for physically disabled residents, eight (8) Section 8 units improved coordination? are funded by through the Housing Authority of Hot Springs, and low income housing tax credits (LIHTC) are provided through the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) at 60% for extremely low income residents with a household income below $11,000, and 30% for low- to moderate-income residents between $11,000 and $24,000. No immediate changes in services are expected, though there is a need for improvements and maintenance of this aging facility such as a new roof, outdoor security lighting, and sidewalk repairs. Under this Consolidated Plan the Cultural Campus will have the opportunity to request needed municipal infrastructure improvements. The City of Hot Springs will make staff available to guide them through the planning and application process including coordination with the surrounding low- to moderate-income neighborhood plans to ensure funding and improvements are maximized to assist the greatest number of residents possible. 8 Agency/Group/Organization IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING, INC Agency/Group/Organization Type Service-Fair Housing What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the In Affordable Housing, Inc. was consulted in-person to Agency/Group/Organization consulted discuss homebuyer needs and challenges in the Hot and what are the anticipated outcomes Springs housing market. of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? 9 Agency/Group/Organization SPA AREA INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICE, INC Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 16 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Phone consultations were conducted with the ADA Agency/Group/Organization consulted Technical Assistance Consultant and Executive Director and what are the anticipated outcomes of this Arkansas grant funded organization providing of the consultation or areas for opportunities for those with disabilities who are improved coordination? specifically transitioning out of or at risk of institutionalization. Programs include The Community Housing Project, which provides rental assistance vouchers for approximately 45 accessible homes for up two (2) years to bridge the gap during waiting periods for programs such as Section 8 Public Housing, Case Management services including Medicaid waivers to cover daily in-house needs of those between 21-65 years of age including up to $7,500 in home accessibility modifications, housing advocacy, and transitional services including but not limited to referral services, support to ensure communal living success, and assistance finding household furnishings. Challenges include the availability of accessible affordable housing including public housing, limiting integration into neighborhoods; a need to expand the City's para-route bus line coverage; and a lack of wheelchair mobility due to gaps and disrepair of sidewalks along major corridors. This Consolidated Plan addresses the need for improved and new sidewalks in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods particularly accessibility and mobility needs, and supports non-profit housing development to encourage accessible housing integration into neighborhoods. 10 Agency/Group/Organization First Step Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Education What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 17 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Phone consultation with the Executive Director of this Agency/Group/Organization consulted Developmental Day Treatment Clinic Service (DDTCS) and what are the anticipated outcomes which provides an array of comprehensive day of the consultation or areas for treatment (services) to individuals with developmental improved coordination? and/or intellectual disabilities in a clinic setting. Core services include: Diagnosis and Evaluation to determine a person's eligibility for habilitation services in one of the three levels of care Habilitation instruction in areas of self-help, socialization, communication etc. Habilitation activities must be based on the goals and objectives of the individualized plan of care. Speech therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy. First step currently provides early intervention services to over 400 preschoolers and 90 adults. In addition, First Step operates 2 group homes with twenty-four (24) hour supervision of thirty-eight (38) adults over eighteen (18) who would otherwise be institutionalized, and an apartment complex for twenty (20) high functioning developmentally disabled adults with eight (8) hour supervision. The waiting list for group home residency is over ten (10) years. Currently there are eight (8) individuals on a three (3) year waiting list for apartment residency. Challenges include a need for another group home and apartment complex, as well as an intermediate home for youth under 18 with developmental disabilities and/or behavior issues. The City of Hot Springs will continue to coordinate with First Step to identify opportunities to further their services and mission. 11 Agency/Group/Organization COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICE, INC Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Education What section of the Plan was Non-Homeless Special Needs addressed by Consultation? Economic Development Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 18 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Executive Director of the Community Services Agency/Group/Organization consulted Office, Inc. (CSO) was consulted over the phone. and what are the anticipated outcomes Services include head-start education for 253 students of the consultation or areas for in four (4) locations including a primary location in improved coordination? downtown Hot Springs, transportation services on Monday for Hot Springs elderly (60+) to obtain mainly medical services in Little Rock, Tuesday through Friday transportation for the elderly and disabled to reach services in the greater Hot Springs area, a food pantry on Thursday through USDA Commodity Distribution and Rice Depot of Little Rock providing food to all-age groups of low-income residents and weekend backpack take-home food to students of Hot Springs School District on Fridays. Additionally, through Entergy, they are able to provide utility bill assistance for eligible families, and with a Garland County grant provide for emergency needs such as prescriptions or shelter costs. While they are updating their community assessment to understand low-income program needs they have no plans to change services at this time unless federal funding is reduced. Seasonal, part-time tourist-industry related jobs were noted as a contributing factor in the need for CSO program assistance. Coordination between the City and CSO regarding the first time home-buyer classes and financial assistance, and economic development job opportunities will be improved as a result of this Consolidated Plan. 12 Agency/Group/Organization Arkansas Career Training Institute Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Education Other government - State What section of the Plan was Non-Homeless Special Needs addressed by Consultation? Economic Development Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 19 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Admissions Director was consulted over the phone Agency/Group/Organization consulted regarding job training and dormitory housing provided and what are the anticipated outcomes to the disabled at the Arkansas Career Training Institute, of the consultation or areas for formerly the Hot Springs Rehabilitation Center. improved coordination? Programs include a four (4) hour per day school-to-work program for sixteen (16) year or older students in Hot Springs high schools, as well as all ages resident and non-resident vocation training program. Student disabilities may be physical, learning, accident-related, or mental if med compliant and accepted after committee review. Over 170 students reside onsite, with an additional 20 non-resident students who live in Hot Springs. The facility is currently being remodeled, and will accommodate up to 300 resident students. Classwork includes business, automotive service, collision repair, electrician, grounds keeping, Certified Nursing Assistant, construction technology, graphics design, welding, cosmetology, sales, and more. An onsite job placement coordinator assists with applications, interviews, and outreach with major area employers to successfully place graduates into applicable careers. Coordination will continue under this Consolidated Plan as economic development investments make job opportunities available, and employed graduates prepare to purchase their own home with first time home buyer education and down payment / closing cost assistance. 13 Agency/Group/Organization National Park Community College Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Education Services-Employment What section of the Plan was Economic Development addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 20 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Workforce Specialist with National Park Community Agency/Group/Organization consulted College (NPCC) was consulted in-person to discuss and what are the anticipated outcomes educational programs and efforts to support economic of the consultation or areas for development. NPCC's Workforce Development team improved coordination? works closely with area businesses in manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, banking, and many other sectors to respond to workforce training needs quickly and cost- effective. Programs range from Arkansas Career Readiness testing to assess reading, mathematics and information location skills prior to employment, and as needed, appropriate education to prepare residents for work if they demonstrated skill gaps; Existing Workforce Training Program (EWTP), an Arkansas Economic Development Commission program to deliver customized, industry-specific training to upgrade the skills and knowledge of a company's current workforce through 50:50 grant matching to make training affordable for qualifying businesses, and increase the capacity of state-supported educational institutions; Customized training designed to enhance business performance; Professional development including management, computer skills, leadership, team building, customer service, banking, etc.; Advanced IT for manufacturing such as PLCs, process controls, instrumentation and technical foundations; Industrial and Aerospace manufacturing and repair courses to prepare entry-level students for careers in area industries. With a large staff who have diverse training backgrounds they are able to quickly respond to the needs of the business community. They also leverage other college departments, local, state and consultant resources to meet the needs of their clients. In close coordination with the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, NPCC is engaged during discussions with potential new businesses regarding workforce education needs and opportunities. NPCC is expecting a $1 million grant from the State of Arkansas for advanced manufacturing equipment and education programs such as robotics and injection molds to better serve the advanced needs of modern manufacturing employers in the area. The City of Hot Springs will coordinate CDBG job growth efforts with NPCC and employers. Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 21 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 14 Agency/Group/Organization Hot Springs School District Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-Education What section of the Plan was Homeless Needs - Families with children addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the The Hot Springs School District Homeless Liaison was Agency/Group/Organization consulted consulted over the phone and during interactive public and what are the anticipated outcomes hearings regarding homelessness. 153 students enrolled of the consultation or areas for in 2012-13, with an estimated 220 in 2013-14, receive improved coordination? homelessness services including those in shelters, residing temporarily in a motel or 'couch surfing' in homes that are not theirs. Services include school breakfast, snack and lunches, backpack school supplies, individual student and family counseling, bus passes, hotel assistance, weekend and summer food supplies, and used furniture. The greatest challenge is family reporting or otherwise identifying children who are homeless and need help. The City of Hot Springs and the Southwest Arkansas Partnership will continue to coordinate with the Hot Springs School District to promote services, refer children, and provide volunteer opportunities that benefit students and sheltered homeless in exit programs. 15 Agency/Group/Organization Hot Springs Community School Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Education What section of the Plan was Market Analysis addressed by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 22 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the A phone consultation was conducted with the Hot Agency/Group/Organization consulted Springs Community School Superintendent. In the fall of and what are the anticipated outcomes 2013 this private, non-tuition, Christian-based school of the consultation or areas for implemented the HeartBridge Learning System designed improved coordination? to break the cycle of poverty, drug use and crime. The curriculum combines project-based learning, where the students connect to their world solving real problems with traditional tools. This involves working in groups 25% of the time. Social skills, personal skills (assertiveness training, anger management, problem solving, communication skills, and conflict resolution) and group skills are learned and utilized. Working in conjunction with the Hot Springs School District and Project HOPE they have enrolled forty (40) lower income children falling behind in other schools and home- schooled children. Hot Springs Community School plans to expand to serve 100 children in the future. The City of Hot Springs will continue to coordinate with the school to identify opportunities and collaborative partnerships that will further service that meet their mission. 16 Agency/Group/Organization OUACHITA CHILDREN'S CENTER Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-homeless Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care What section of the Plan was Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis Anti-poverty Strategy

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 23 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Executive Director of this twenty (20) bed Agency/Group/Organization consulted unaccompanied youth facility was interviewed over the and what are the anticipated outcomes phone in preparation for the development of this of the consultation or areas for Consolidated Plan. Ouachita Children's Center currently improved coordination? provides services to at-risk children ages six (6) to seventeen (17) and their family including 45- to 60-day emergency shelter, exercise opportunities in partnership with the YMCA, health education through the Garland County Department of Health, school supplies and breakfast/lunch/snacks in coordination with local school districts, and internal counseling, life skills, parenting and other programs to prevent homelessness and generational poverty cycles. In 2014 they will be launching a life skills training program designed to address poverty cycles. Their greatest challenges are unsheltered, unaccompanied youth outreach, and jobs/housing opportunities for eighteen (18) to twenty- one (21) year olds exiting foster care. The City of Hot Springs will continue to coordinate with Ouachita Children's Center in assessing economic development and housing needs of at-risk young adults, and assisting in outreach efforts. This Consolidated Plan could provide non-seasonal, full-time job opportunities through economic development infrastructure investments for young adults exiting foster care enabling them to afford decent housing, as well as first time home-buyer education and financial assistance. 17 Agency/Group/Organization StoneWorks Agency Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless Services-Education Services-Employment What section of the Plan was Homelessness Needs - Veterans addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 24 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Executive Director of StoneWorks Agency was Agency/Group/Organization consulted consulted over the phone and participated in public and what are the anticipated outcomes meetings regarding housing, homeless and economic of the consultation or areas for development. StoneWorks serves veterans of all eras, improved coordination? former felons, and their families. In coordination with the Garland County Court, Veterans Administration, St. Francis House (homeless shelter for veterans and their families in Little Rock), Haven Food Pantry, ProjectHOPE, Workforce, National Park Community Counseling, landlords, and non-profit organizations they provide health and mental health, housing, education and employment referrals. In addition, StoneWorks facilitates peer counseling groups and GED classes. They are currently exploring an opportunity to utilize a vacant church building for use as a veteran's homeless shelter. The City of Hot Springs will coordinate with StoneWorks on fair housing, first time home buyer education classes, and as part of the Southwest Arkansas Partnership. 18 Agency/Group/Organization Potter's Clay Ministries, Inc. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Victims of Domestic Violence Services-homeless What section of the Plan was Homeless Needs - Families with children addressed by Consultation? How was the Potter's Clay Crisis Center for Women and Children, a Agency/Group/Organization consulted sixty (60) bed women's domestic violence shelter and what are the anticipated outcomes providing crisis intervention, prevention and recovery of the consultation or areas for services was consulted over the phone. No changes to improved coordination? their current services and shelter are planned. Coordination will continue through the Southwest Arkansas Partnership (SWAP) Continuum of Care. 19 Agency/Group/Organization SAFE HAVEN SHELTER FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless What section of the Plan was Homelessness Strategy addressed by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 25 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Executive Director of the thirty-four (34) bed Safe Agency/Group/Organization consulted Haven Women and Children's Shelter was interviewed and what are the anticipated outcomes over the phone in preparation for the development of of the consultation or areas for this Consolidated Plan. The shelter has operated at improved coordination? 100% capacity since opening in April 2013, and receives strong volunteer and donation support from the community. The challenge they face is a lack of mental healthcare medication coverage for those who do not qualify for Medicaid, a need identified by many homeless services organizations. Coordination and consultation will continue through the Southwest Arkansas Partnership. 20 Agency/Group/Organization Samaritan Ministries of Hot Springs, Inc. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 26 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the A telephone consultation and participation in two (2) Agency/Group/Organization consulted interactive public hearings were conducted with the and what are the anticipated outcomes Executive Director of Samaritan Ministries operating a of the consultation or areas for twenty-eight (28) bed emergency homeless shelter up to improved coordination? ten (10) nights per month with shower, clothing, meals and interdenominational chapel services for men, and a ten (10) bed resident program for men including thirty (30) hours per week of job and life skills training, nutrition, computer skills and budgeting, as well as an exercise program in conjunction with the Hot Springs YMCA and job placement services through Express Personnel. Challenges for resident program graduates include a lack of decent, affordable one (1) bedroom housing options and non-seasonal/day labor jobs that contribute to income instability and potential return to homelessness. The challenge with emergency, overnight homeless men is a gap in mental healthcare prescription coverage for those with Medicaid/Medicare, the Hot Springs free medical clinic does not provide mental illness medications, and area mental healthcare providers are operating at full in- patient capacity. Samaritan Ministries cannot afford, nor does their mission support the use of mental health prescriptions in the shelter and they must turn these individuals away without another viable shelter option. The City of Hot Springs will communicate and coordinate with Samaritan Ministries regarding economic development/job opportunities and first time home buying education and financial assistance classes that will provide a next step in exiting homelessness to the Resident Program graduates of Samaritan. Through the Growing Healthy Communities initiative, the City of Hot Springs will work with Levi Hospital and other organizations to support mental healthcare improvements in the community. 21 Agency/Group/Organization United Way of Garland County Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Health Services-Education Regional organization

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 27 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) What section of the Plan was Homelessness Strategy addressed by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children Market Analysis How was the An in-person meeting was held with the Executive Agency/Group/Organization consulted Director of the Garland County United Way also and what are the anticipated outcomes representing the Southwest Arkansas Partnership of the consultation or areas for (SWAP). The United Way focuses on health, education improved coordination? and income changes in the community providing impact model funding to area 501c3 non-profits with two (2) years of training to assist them in business planning, start up, results monitoring, mid-year plan improvement efforts, fundraising and grant writing tools, and partnerships. Other funded initiatives include discount prescription savings cards (FamilyWize),utility and rent/mortgage assistance to at-risk residents, food drives, financially supporting the Safe Haven Women & Children's emergency homeless shelter, administration of the Oaklawn Foundation's School Wellness Program providing tuition assistance for higher-education opportunities, acting as a fiscal agent for Project HOPE grant acquisitions to improve the health of Garland County residents and collaborate efforts. Having been a participant in homeless counts the greatest need they see is for elderly & disabled warming/cooling centers during inclement weather. The City of Hot Springs continues to communicate with United Way and the Southwest Arkansas Partnership regarding programs, initiatives and collaborative opportunities such as first time home-buyer education and financial assistance programs, police presence in problematic neighborhoods, economic development/job growth, and educational needs within the community. 22 Agency/Group/Organization Hot Springs Charitable Christian Medical Clinic Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-homeless Services-Health What section of the Plan was Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 28 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Hot Springs Charitable Christian Medical Clinic (CCMC) Agency/Group/Organization consulted was consulted over the phone regarding services and what are the anticipated outcomes provided, and homeless and non-homeless needs in the of the consultation or areas for community. Residents served are low-income, and improved coordination? roughly estimated to be 90% homeless or at high risk of homelessness. CCMC specifically provides services to those who are without health insurance, Medicaid or Medicare and cannot afford doctor's treatment or prescriptions. Services include medical, dental, GYN, eye exams, health education, physical therapy, mental health care counseling, referrals to specialists for diagnostics, evaluations and surgeries performed at reduced cost or on a pro bono basis, no-cost medical prescriptions, and lab visits. While a Psychiatrist treats patients with counseling they do not dispense psychiatric medications, which is a challenge in addressing the needs of homeless or near-homeless persons with mental illness including persons with substance abuse dual diagnoses. The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine ways to ameliorate the conditions that can create chronic homelessness amongst the mentally- ill. 23 Agency/Group/Organization Levi Hospital Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Health What section of the Plan was Non-Homeless Special Needs addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 29 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the The Community Affairs & Development Director of the Agency/Group/Organization consulted non-profit rehabilitation and mental health hospital was and what are the anticipated outcomes consulted over the phone. Services are provided of the consultation or areas for regardless of ability to pay and include inpatient and improved coordination? outpatient adult psychiatry (ages 18 and above), rehabilitation therapy, sports medicine, student athlete sports medicine outreach, arthritis and osteoporosis testing and treatment, occupational therapy, and outpatient psychiatric program transitions. Many patients are elderly and frail elderly. The City will continue working with Levi through the Growing Healthy Communities initiative and facilitate conversations with other Consolidated Plan partners to assess and ameliorate service gaps of the chronically homeless mentally-ill who are either non-medically controlled or dually diagnosed with substance-abuse issues. 24 Agency/Group/Organization Hot Springs Family YMCA Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-Health Services-Education What section of the Plan was Market Analysis addressed by Consultation? Healthy Living - Community Development How was the The President of the Hot Springs Family YMCA was Agency/Group/Organization consulted consulted by phone regarding the Healthy Living Index and what are the anticipated outcomes Community Development tool being implemented by of the consultation or areas for the YMCA in Hot Springs in 2014. This software assesses improved coordination? physical activity and nutrition gaps and needs in the community, which will be beneficial in understanding disabled and elderly accessibility and transportation challenges, low- to moderate-income neighborhood access to healthy foods through food desert mapping, and food bank and meal program needs of the homeless, elderly, disabled and at-risk. As members of the Growing Healthy Communities initiative, the City of Hot Springs and the YMCA will meet monthly with other related organizations to improve coordination and increase health and wellness opportunities and access in the community.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 30 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 25 Agency/Group/Organization BancorpSouth Agency/Group/Organization Type Community Reinvestment Private Sector Banking / Financing What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the BancorpSouth Executive and Senior Vice Presidents Agency/Group/Organization consulted were consulted in-person to discuss low- to moderate- and what are the anticipated outcomes income household mortgage lending needs and of the consultation or areas for practices in accordance with the federal Community improved coordination? Reinvestment Act (CRA). Improved outreach efforts to increase homeownership lending to LMI and special needs households will continue to be coordinated through BancorpSouth Community Advisory Council quarterly meetings with civic and business leaders. 26 Agency/Group/Organization Regions Bank Agency/Group/Organization Type Community Reinvestment Private Sector Banking / Financing What section of the Plan was Housing Need Assessment addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the An in-person consultation was held with the Arkansas Agency/Group/Organization consulted Community Development Officer and local Executive and what are the anticipated outcomes Vice President to discuss City of Hot Springs of the consultation or areas for Consolidated Plan objectives, housing market trends, improved coordination? first time home-buyer education programs and low- to moderate-income household mortgage lending needs and practices in accordance with the federal Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). Improved outreach efforts to increase homeownership lending to LMI and special needs households will continue to be coordinated through the Regions Bank Community Development Officer. Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated

Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting

There are no Community Development Financial Institutions in Hot Springs, Arkansas. There are no HOPWA programs within a 50 mile radius of Garland County, Arkansas. The organization, Homes Uniting Good Friends, indicated as a Hot Springs service provider in IDIS could not be located.

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Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan

Name of Plan Lead How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals Organization of each plan? Continuum of Southwest The City of Hot Springs collaborates with a broad spectrum of Care Arkansas organizations, groups and providers to develop, implement, Partnership measure and continuously improve plans that effectively utilize all available resources and services to achieve common goals that benefit low-income residents. Through continued coordination with the Southwest Arkansas Partnership, Consolidated Plan efforts to provide decent, affordable housing and business/job growth will expand self-sufficiency and independent living opportunities. Businesses receiving CDBG funding for municipal infrastructure improvements are encouraged to include outreach to organizations working with those exiting homelessness and foster care in their recruitment strategy. Continuum of Arkansas Balance The Southwest Arkansas Partnership and City of Hot Springs Care Strategic of State representatives coordinate homelessness planning efforts and Plan 2013 resources with the Arkansas Balance of State coalition of Continuum of Care organizations. Economic development and decent affordable housing initiatives included in this consolidated plan support the Arkansas Balance of State strategic goals to increase employment and housing opportunities. Economic Greater Hot Through a well-coordinated effort between the City, Chamber of Development Springs Chamber Commerce, West Central Planning & Development District, Strategic Plan of Commerce educational institutions, neighborhood and community organizations small business and revolving loan funds, economic development grants, general funds and CDBG funding for municipal infrastructure improvements will be leveraged to meet the needs of new and expanding businesses.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 32 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Name of Plan Lead How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals Organization of each plan? PHA 5-Year Plan Hot Springs The City will continue to promote CDBG funded first time home Public Housing buyer education programs with the Public Housing Authority Authority Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator in an effort to increase homeownership and financial independence amongst residents. The City will annually re-adopt the permit fees and charges waiver for providers of affordable housing including the Public Housing Authority. Businesses receiving CDBG funding for municipal infrastructure improvements are encouraged to include outreach to the Public Housing Authority in their recruitment strategy. Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan (91.215(l))

The City of Hot Springs coordinates with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, the Arkansas Department of Transportation, Garland County Government, Hot Springs Housing Authority, Hot Springs Metropolitan Planning Organization, West Central Arkansas Planning & Development District, Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, and other state agencies as needed in the definition of needs and projects, coordination, implementation and monitoring of Consolidated Plan elements.

Narrative (optional):

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 33 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) PR-15 Citizen Participation 1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting

This Consolidated Plan was developed with considerable citizen participation and consultation reviewing prior plan objectives and outcomes, defining current needs, ranking priorities, and setting objectives.

A Citizen survey was conducted between April 12, 2013 and May 5, 2013 listing forty-three (43) CDBG eligible-activities. A press release was issued on April 12, 2013 and additional communication methods were used to promote surveys including social media, email distribution lists, community electronic newsletters, and public access TV. Over five-hundred (500) hard-copies were available at twenty-three (23) locations including city facilities, community centers, non-profit organizations, retail locations, places of employment, and neighborhood association meetings, primarily in low- to moderate-income areas. Several volunteers assisted with door-to-door survey canvassing.

Survey results were published on the City website May 23, 2013. Survey results public review and comment was announced via press release on May 17, 2013 and in the May 21, 2013 Sentinel Record newspaper. The Community Development Advisory Committee held a public meeting May 23, 2013 in City Hall Board Chambers.

June 6, 2013 a press release was issued followed by a Sunday June 16, 2013 Sentinel Record advertisement of ten (10) interactive community listening sessions inviting public participation in the development of the Consolidated Plan. Two (2) sessions were held June 24, 2013 to review and comment on Census data, consultative interviews and citizen survey results to further define Consolidated Plan priorities and objectives. Two (2) sessions were held June 25, 2013 to discuss Housing needs. Two (2) sessions were held June 26, 2013 to discuss Homelessness needs. Two (2) sessions were held June 27, 2013 to discuss Economic Development. Two (2) sessions were held on June 28, 2013 to discuss Community Development.

July 2, 2013 a press release was issued followed by a Sunday July 7, 2013 Sentinal Record ad announcing review of the first draft of the 2014- 2018 Condolidated Plan during a Community Development Advisory Committee public meeting. The Community Development Advisory Committee held a public hearing on July 11, 2013 to review the draft of the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan, solicit public comment and recommend the plan to City Board of Directors.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 34 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Two (2) legal notices were run on October 13 & 15, 2013 announcing the public review and comment on the Consolidated Plan in front of the City Board on October 15, 2013 before approval, and opened the 30-day public comment period. A press release was issued October 11, 2013. The City Board reviewed the Consolidated Plan and held a public comment hearing on October 15, 2013.

A legal notice ran three (3) weeks August 11, 18 & 25, 2013 requesting Fiscal Year 2014 applications. Notice of public hearing and application details were advertised September 8, 2013. A press release was issued September 5. The Community Development Advisory Committee held a public hearing on September 12 to review applications, solicit public comment and recommend FY2014 applications to City Board of Directors who reviewed and approved the Annual Action Plan after public comment on November 5, 2013.

All press releases include distribution to the City of Hot Springs website, KVRE Radio, US Stations (KZNG, KQUS, etc.), Noalmark Broadcasting (KBHS, KLAZ, etc.), Village Voice newspaper, The Springs newspaper, Ouachita Life regional newspaper, Hot Springs Life & Home magazine, Values Direct magazine, Hot Springs Daily (website), Democrat-Gazette, Democrat-Gazette Tri-Lakes Edition and Arkansas Online, and Amigo regional Spanish newspaper. All public meetings were advertised as and held in fully-accessible facilities with non-English speaking and hearing- impaired accommodations available.

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Citizen Participation Outreach

Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 36 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 1 Citizen Needs and Minorities 256 responses were Two (2) citizen No comments were Priorities Survey received online and comments were received that were not Persons with in hard copy. 64.5% received, included considered in the disabilities of respondents as part of the development of this disclosed total Citizen Consolidated Plan. Non- household income Participation targeted/broad and of those 44% attachment. A community identified as low- to board president of moderate-income, a a qualifying LMI Residents of Public much higher neighborhood and Assisted representation than association Housing the city-wide 22.8% endorsed the LMI due to results of the Business Owners concentrated survey. A business and Non-Profits outreach efforts. and tourism promotions advertiser expressed that vacant structures in historic corridors were a nuisance and efforts should be made to revitalize these buildings.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 37 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 2 Public Meeting Neighborhood CDBG overview and No comments were No comments were Associations citizen participation received. received. surveys were presented at five (5) neighborhood association meetings: Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association (19 attendees), Park Avenue Community Association (35 attendees), Forest Hills Neighborhood (6 attendees), Prospect/Quapaw (5 attendees), and Forest Lakes (40 attendees).

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 38 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 3 Newspaper Ad Minorities A newspaper ad and No comments were No comments were press release were received. received. Non- issued inviting public targeted/broad participation and community comment at a Community Development Advisory Committee meeting reviewing the results of the Citizen Participation Survey. 4 Public Meeting Non- A Community No comments were No comments were targeted/broad Development received received. community Advisory Committee public meeting was held to review the results of the Citizen Participation Survey and solicit public comment. Three (3) residents of two (2) targeted area neighborhood associations attended.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 39 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 5 Internet Outreach Non- The results of the No comments were No comments were targeted/broad Citizen Participation received. received. community Survey were published on the City of Hot Springs website. The link was shared on social media sites, through email distribution lists, and included in CDBG informational materials.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 40 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 6 Newspaper Ad Minorities A newspaper ad and No comments were No comments were press release were received. received. Non- issued inviting public targeted/broad participation and community comment at ten (10) interactive public meetings to discuss the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan objectives, prior CDBG performance, and housing, homelessness, economic development, and community development needs and priorities.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 41 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 7 Public Meeting Minorities Forty-four (44) No written All verbal comments attended ten (10) comments were were considered in the Persons with sessions including submitted. development of this disabilities residents, Consolidated Plan. neighborhood Non- association board targeted/broad members, a school community district, businesses, faith-based Residents of Public organizations, and Assisted LIHTC/public housing, Housing mental health care center, and Businesses and homeless, exiting- non-profit service incarceration and providers veteran service providers.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 42 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 8 Newspaper Ad Minorities A newspaper ad and No comments were No comments were press release were received. received. Non- issued inviting public targeted/broad participation and community comment at a Community Development Advisory Committee meeting reviewing the first draft of the 2014-2018 CDBG Consolidated Plan.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 43 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 9 Public Meeting Minorities A Community Residents verbally A resident requested a Development expressed support reduction in proposed Persons with Advisory Committee for economic Economic disabilities public meeting was development Development held to review the activities, and Infrastructure funding, Non- first draft of the neighborhood from 25% to 15%; targeted/broad 2014-2018 revitalization Other residents and community Consolidated Plan efforts to reduce the committee and solicit public blight, improve supported 25%. A Residents of Public comment. Nine (9) infrastructure, committee member and Assisted citizens attended increase home- expressed concern Housing representing the ownership, and about the end of StoneWorks Agency preserve historic housing rehabilitation and residents of four and unique programs; Residents (4) neighborhoods neighborhood said no one was denied three (3) of which are characteristics. A a voice in the process located in Low- to request was made and housing rehab was Moderate-Income to reduce Planning a low priority. areas. & Administration costs, which is reflected in the FY14 Annual Action Plan. No written comments were submitted.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 44 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 10 Newspaper Ad Non- A newspaper ad ran Five (5) applications All applications were targeted/broad three (3) weeks in a were received considered. community row requesting representing ten applications for fiscal (10) potential year 2014 CDBG projects. funding. A press release was also issued.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 45 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 11 Public Meeting Non- A Community One (1) business Whittington Valley targeted/broad Development owner spoke in Neighborhood community Advisory Committee support of an as- Association requested public meeting was needed economic an amendment that held to review development should other funding proposed Annual municipal become available to Action Plan funding infrastructure fund. make park requests and solicit One (1) resident improvements before public comment. spoke in support of CDBG funding was Fifteen(15) citizens the Park Avenue available to do so that attended. pedestrian the allocated funds be Presentations were improvement reprogrammed for given by applicants project. other Whittington from Habitat for Valley Neighborhood Humanity, Association projects. Whittington Valley The Community Neighborhood Development Advisory Association, Park Committee did not Avenue Community accept this Association, and City amendment, instead Planning & choosing to make Development excess funds available personnel. to any of the seven (7) targeted areas for infrastructure and/or public facility improvements.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 46 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 12 Newspaper Ad Non- A legal notice ran A PowerPoint slide No comments were targeted/broad twice in the show was received received. community newspaper from the President announcing a public of the Whittington hearing at the City Valley Board of Directors Neighborhood meeting to review Association and solicit public requesting that comment on the proposed economic 2014-2018 development funds Consolidated Plan. A be eliminated in press release was favor of spending also issued. all available funds Additionally, the legal on neighborhood notice and press infrastructure and release opened the public facilities Consolidated Plan 30- projects. This slide day public comment show was period with presented by its instructions on where author at the City to review the plan, Board public and how to submit meeting. comments.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 47 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 13 Public Meeting Non- City Planning & A representative Comments received to targeted/broad Development from Park Avenue eliminate economic community Director presented Community development the Consolidated Plan Association infrastructure funding to six (6) Board of supported the entirely were not Directors, Mayor, City Consolidated Plan accepted since the Manager, City due to the strong Consolidated Plan has Attorney and City citizen input the flexibility to adjust Clerk who then heard involved in its funding levels up to public comment from creation. The 25% or less, including four (4) residents and Whittington Valley zero, to meet needs the CDBG Consultant. Neighborhood each fiscal year An estimated fifty Association through the Annual (50) residents were in President Action Plan. attendance. presented a slide show requesting that proposed economic development funds be eliminated in favor of spending all available funds on neighborhood infrastructure and public facilities. Another Whittington Valley resident also spoke Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS in opposition to 48 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) economic development funding. A Whittington Valley Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 14 Citizen Needs and Non- A five (5) minute TV No comments were No comments were Priorities Survey targeted/broad spot aired on the received. received. community Government Access TV Channel several times each day during the month of November encouraging citizens to attend the City Board of Directors public hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Action Plan and proposed projects. In addition, citizens were encouraged to review both the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan and were given instructions on where to review and how to submit comments. This segment also aired on the City of Hot Springs Youtube channel and website. Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 49 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 15 Newspaper Ad Non- A legal notice ran in No comments were No comments were targeted/broad the newspaper twice received. received. community announcing a public hearing at the City Board of Directors meeting to review and solicit public comment on Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Action Plan. A press release was also issued. Additionally, the legal notice and press release opened the Annual Action Plan 30-day public comment period with instructions on where to review the plan, and how to submit comments.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 50 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 16 Citizen Needs and Non- One (1) hour radio No comments were No comments were Priorities Survey targeted/broad discussion of the received. received. community Consolidated Plan and FY2014 Annual Action Plan aired live on KBHS AM1420 on October 30, 2013 and replayed November 3rd and 5th (the day of the public hearing). Instructions on viewing and commenting on the Consolidated and Annual Action Plans were provided. Listeners were encouraged to attend the Annual Action Plan public hearing.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 51 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of Summary of Summary of comments URL (If response/attendance comments received not accepted applicable) and reasons 17 Public Meeting Non- City Planning & The Executive All comments were targeted/broad Development Director of a non- considered. community Director presented profits arts the Consolidated Plan organization and a to six (6) Board of local architect Directors, Mayor, City expressed support Manager, City for Economic Attorney and City Development Clerk who then heard discretionary public comment from funding. Two (2) five(5) residents. An members of the estimated twenty- Park Avenue five (25) residents Community were in attendance. Association briefly described their sidewalk improvements. A neighborhood association president requested that the City Board review all discretionary fund spending in the future. The Mayor clarified that the Board had approved City Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS Manager 52 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) discretion. Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 53 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Needs Assessment

NA-05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview

This section estimates the needs for housing, public housing, homeless, non-homeless and community development. The estimates provided here are the result of data analysis, consultations, citizen participation needs and priority survey, and public hearings.

The 2007-2011 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates indicate that the greatest need is for 1- bedroom (398) and 2-bedroom (661) rental units, and 3-bedoom (948) owner-occupied housing. The majority of renters (63%) pay less than the Area Median Rent ($608), but more than the Fair Market Rent for efficiency ($428) and 1-bedroom ($531). The extremely low income, small families and the elderly experience a greater cost burden for rental housing reinforcing the need for decent, affordable rental units.

Additional public housing for the elderly and disabled, and supervised housing for the developmentally disabled were indicated as needs during consultations.

Non-housing community development needs for municipal park and infrastructure improvements ranked highest in Citizen Needs Surveys, and received the greatest support during twelve (12) public meetings. Housing remains affordable in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods. By reducing blight, improving infrastructure such as sidewalks, encouraging home-ownership and economic development in these areas it is believed that additional public and private investments will be made to further revitalization.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 54 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-10 Housing Needs Assessment - 24 CFR 91.205 (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs

The Housing Needs Assessment analyzes housing needs by housing problem, household category, housing type (renter or owner occupation), income level, and identifies disproportionately greater needs by race and ethnicity.

Housing problems, in this context, are described as:

 Lack of complete kitchen or plumbing facilities  Cost burdened: A housing cost burden of more than 30% of household income. Cost burden is the fraction of a household's total gross income spent on housing costs. For renters, housing costs include rent paid by the tenant plus utilities. For owners, housing costs include mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, and utilities  Severe cost burdened: A housing cost burden of more than 50% of household income, applying the same definition as described for cost burden  Overcrowding is defined as more than one person per room, not including bathrooms, porches, foyers, halls, or half rooms  Severe overcrowding is defined as more than 1.5 persons per room, applying the same definition as described for overcrowding

Overcrowding and severe overcrowding are not identified as housing problems in Hot Springs.

22.8% of Hot Springs households are classified as low- to moderate-income (LMI). Low to moderate income, regardless of household type, is categorized by HUD as a percentage of total household income compared to Area Median Income.

 Extremely Low-Income: Households earning less than 30% of Area Median Income (AMI)  Low-Income: Households earning 30-50% AMI  Moderate-Income: Households earning between 50-80% AMI  Middle-Income: Households earning between 80-100% AMI Moderate

Housing needs have been assessed by several household categories.

 Small families, defined as a family with two to four members comprise 35% of Hot Springs households  Large families, defined as a family with five or more members make up 4% of households  Elderly, defined as over the age of 62 are present in 41% of households

Renter cost burdens are the greatest problem in Hot Springs. Overall, 10% of renters in Hot Springs are spending over half of household income on rent, 60% of which are extremely low income and 36% of

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 55 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) which are low-income. 9% of residents are spending over 30% of their income on rental costs. 31% of small families and 17% of elderly are experiencing cost or severe cost rental burdens.

Elderly home-owner cost burdens are also of note with 15% experiencing an owner cost or severe cost burden.

Disproportionately greater needs exist when the percentage of persons in a category of need who are members of a particular racial or ethnic group is at least 10 percentage points higher than the percentage of persons in the category as a whole. The following disproportionate needs were identified:

 Extremely low-income Black / African Americans are experiencing one or more housing problems and severe housing cost burdens  Extremely low- and moderate-income American Indian / Alaskan Natives are experiencing housing and severe housing problems, only a small portion of which are cost burdens  Extremely low, low, moderate and middle-income Hispanics are experiencing housing problems including cost burdens, and severe housing problems of which a portion are severe cost burdens

Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2010 % Change Population 35,750 35,604 -0% Households 16,048 15,468 -4% Median Income $26,040.00 $30,389.00 17% Table 5 - Housing Needs Assessment Demographics

Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2006-2010 ACS (Most Recent Year)

Number of Households Table

0-30% >30-50% >50-80% >80-100% >100% HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI Total Households * 2,010 2,455 2,755 1,480 6,764 Small Family Households * 620 680 775 525 2,819 Large Family Households * 55 110 185 35 270 Household contains at least one person 62-74 years of age 380 490 445 360 1,540 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older 215 670 775 240 1,210 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger * 355 420 330 160 395 * the highest income category for these family types is >80% HAMFI Table 6 - Total Households Table Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 56 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Needs Summary Tables

1. Housing Problems (Households with one of the listed needs)

Renter Owner 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Substandard Housing - Lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities 0 50 55 20 125 15 30 35 10 90 Severely Overcrowded - With >1.51 people per room (and complete kitchen and plumbing) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 10 Overcrowded - With 1.01-1.5 people per room (and none of the above problems) 50 140 25 0 215 0 10 50 0 60 Housing cost burden greater than 50% of income (and none of the above problems) 885 545 60 15 1,505 210 260 195 35 700 Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 190 425 615 145 1,375 75 275 260 245 855

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 57 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Renter Owner 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) 50 0 0 0 50 115 0 0 0 115 Table 7 – Housing Problems Table Data 2006-2010 CHAS Source:

2. Housing Problems 2 (Households with one or more Severe Housing Problems: Lacks kitchen or complete plumbing, severe overcrowding, severe cost burden)

Renter Owner 0- >30- >50- >80- Total 0- >30- >50- >80- Total 30% 50% 80% 100% 30% 50% 80% 100% AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Having 1 or more of four housing problems 935 735 145 35 1,850 225 300 295 45 865 Having none of four housing problems 545 720 1,295 540 3,100 140 695 1,025 860 2,720 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems 50 0 0 0 50 115 0 0 0 115 Table 8 – Housing Problems 2 Data 2006-2010 CHAS Source:

3. Cost Burden > 30%

Renter Owner 0-30% >30-50% >50- Total 0-30% >30- >50- Total AMI AMI 80% AMI 50% 80% AMI AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 470 360 235 1,065 55 175 125 355 Large Related 55 50 35 140 0 10 55 65 Elderly 130 335 210 675 165 300 210 675 Other 465 345 239 1,049 70 85 95 250

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 58 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Renter Owner 0-30% >30-50% >50- Total 0-30% >30- >50- Total AMI AMI 80% AMI 50% 80% AMI AMI AMI Total need by 1,120 1,090 719 2,929 290 570 485 1,345 income Table 9 – Cost Burden > 30% Data 2006-2010 CHAS Source:

4. Cost Burden > 50%

Renter Owner 0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total 0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 430 205 0 635 55 95 80 230 Large Related 55 50 0 105 0 10 0 10 Elderly 95 195 85 375 110 100 85 295 Other 350 180 4 534 45 60 40 145 Total need by 930 630 89 1,649 210 265 205 680 income Table 10 – Cost Burden > 50% Data 2006-2010 CHAS Source:

5. Crowding (More than one person per room)

Renter Owner 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Single family households 50 140 25 0 215 0 10 60 0 70 Multiple, unrelated family households 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 4 Other, non-family households 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total need by 50 140 25 0 215 0 10 64 0 74 income Table 11 – Crowding Information – 1/2 Data 2006-2010 CHAS Source:

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 59 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Renter Owner 0-30% >30- >50- Total 0-30% >30- >50- Total AMI 50% 80% AMI 50% 80% AMI AMI AMI AMI Households with Children Present 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 12 – Crowding Information – 2/2 Data Source Comments:

Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance.

It is assumed the online Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data All Other category excludes elderly, and 2+ person households, and therefore represents non-elderly, single person household needs. In which case, there were 1,088 total single person households reported in 2000; 29% with cost or severe cost burdens.

Extremely low-income households:

 132 single persons  73.5% experience a cost burden  44.7% severe cost burden

Low-income households:

 130 single persons  58.5% are experiencing a cost burden  13.8% a severe cost burden

Moderate-income households:

 189 single persons  47.6% are experiencing a cost burden  11.6% a severe cost burden

Middle and above households:

 637 single persons  7.7% experience a cost burden  0.6% severe cost burden

Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 60 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The Public Housing Authority estimates 100 extremely and low-income disabled persons on the public housing and Section 8 waiting lists. The greatest need is for 1-bedroom accessible PHA units experiencing well over a 6 month waiting period. Housing needs for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking were not estimated by the housing authority, or non-profit agencies serving this population. The 60-bed women's violence emergency shelter was not near full occupancy when consultations were conducted.

What are the most common housing problems?

The most common housing problems are related to rental cost burden regardless of household category.

Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems?

Formerly non-housed individuals and families, extremely and low income single persons, small families and the elderly are more affected by cost and severe cost burdens than other categories.

Describe the characteristics and needs of Low-income individuals and families with children (especially extremely low-income) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered 91.205(c)/91.305(c)). Also discuss the needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re-housing assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance

As indicated by the Continuum of Care during consultations, those at-risk or entering homelessness have experienced one or more financial changes, including unfair lending practices, foreclosure, loss of one or more household incomes, increased transportation costs, or other conditions of the current economy. Individuals and families exiting the military, homelessness, incarceration, foster care, institutions or other supportive housing have limited decent, affordable, rental options without full- time, long-term employment or other income sources.

Termination of rapid re-housing assistance was not uncovered as an imminent risk.

If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at-risk population(s), it should also include a description of the operational definition of the at-risk group and the methodology used to generate the estimates:

Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 61 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Hot Springs low- to moderate-income neighborhoods are comprised of older homes with often higher utility and repair costs, however no housing characteristics, other than economic conditions, were linked with instability and increased risk of homelessness during discussions with Continuum of Care providers.

Discussion

The strategy is to increase long-term, full-time job opportunities providing single persons, small families and at-risk individuals with greater financial independence, as well as increase home-ownership for all families and individuals by providing home-buyer education with State-funded financial assistance programs. There is availability of decent, affordable homes for owners in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods, many of which are less expensive than median rent. This two-fold approach will assist at-risk and cost-burdened individuals and families in Hot Springs.

Additionally, the City will continue to support non-profit home building projects providing low-cost housing for the elderly, disabled and families, such as those planned by Habitat for Humanity and the Hot Springs Housing Authority.

Finally, the City will conduct an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing, budgeted in fiscal year 2014, to assess and ameliorate barriers to affordable housing disproportionately affecting racial and ethnic groups.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 62 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-15 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole.

Introduction

The four housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities 3. More than one person per room 4. Cost Burden greater than 30%

Disproportionately greater needs exist when the percentage of persons in a category of need who are members of a particular racial or ethnic group is at least 10 percentage points higher than the percentage of persons in the category as a whole.

Using the data provided below the following disproportionate needs were identified:

 Extremely low-income Black / African Americans with one or more of four housing problems  Extremely low- and moderate-income American Indian / Alaskan Natives with one or more of four housing problems  Extremely low, low, moderate and middle-income Hispanics with one or more of four housing problems

It should be noted, that the number of American Indian and Alaskan Native residents earning less than 100% of Area Median Income is a small population of 18 total, however 14 are experiencing housing problems. Similarly, there are 25 extremely-low income and 4 moderate-income Hispanic households all of which report housing problems.

0%-30% of Area Median Income

Housing Problems Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,510 605 160 White 875 490 115 Black / African American 540 110 45 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 4 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 63 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Problems Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Hispanic 25 0 0 Table 13 - Disproportionally Greater Need 0 - 30% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

30%-50% of Area Median Income

Housing Problems Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,695 955 0 White 1,215 800 0 Black / African American 305 140 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 145 10 0 Table 14 - Disproportionally Greater Need 30 - 50% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

50%-80% of Area Median Income

Housing Problems Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,270 1,595 0 White 990 1,250 0 Black / African American 125 225 0

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 64 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Problems Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 10 4 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 130 105 0 Table 15 - Disproportionally Greater Need 50 - 80% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

80%-100% of Area Median Income

Housing Problems Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 385 1,270 0 White 360 1,080 0 Black / African American 20 185 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 4 0 0 Table 16 - Disproportionally Greater Need 80 - 100% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30%

Discussion

Disproportionately greater needs will be examined and addressed by the City during the 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Survey. The City will expand housing-related program outreach efforts with the races and ethnicities identified, and will encourage Consolidated Plan housing partners to do the same.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 65 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-20 Disproportionately Greater Need: Severe Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole.

Introduction

The four severe housing problems are:

1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities 3. More than 1.5 persons per room 4. Cost Burden over 50%

Disproportionately greater needs exist when the percentage of persons in a category of need who are members of a particular racial or ethnic group is at least 10 percentage points higher than the percentage of persons in the category as a whole.

Using the data provided below the following disproportionate needs were identified:

 Extremely low- and low-income Black / African Americans with one or more of four severe housing problems  Extremely low- and moderate-income American Indian / Alaska Natives with one or more of four severe housing problems  Extremely low- and low-income Hispanics with one or more of four severe housing problems

It should be noted that American Indian / Alaska Natives earning less than 100% of Area Median Income is a total population of 18, however 14 are experiencing severe housing problems.

0%-30% of Area Median Income

Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,200 910 160 White 680 685 115 Black / African American 460 190 45 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 4 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 66 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Hispanic 25 0 0 Table 17 – Severe Housing Problems 0 - 30% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

30%-50% of Area Median Income

Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 830 1,820 0 White 520 1,500 0 Black / African American 235 210 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 70 85 0 Table 18 – Severe Housing Problems 30 - 50% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

50%-80% of Area Median Income

Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 420 2,445 0 White 335 1,905 0 Black / African American 15 330 0

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 67 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 10 4 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 59 180 0 Table 19 – Severe Housing Problems 50 - 80% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

80%-100% of Area Median Income

Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of Has none of the Household has four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 75 1,580 0 White 75 1,365 0 Black / African American 0 205 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 0 4 0 Table 20 – Severe Housing Problems 80 - 100% AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

*The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50%

Discussion

Disproportionately greater needs will be examined and addressed by the City during the 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Survey. The City will expand all housing-related program outreach efforts with the races and ethnicities identified, and will encourage Consolidated Plan housing partners to do the same.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 68 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-25 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole.

Introduction:

Cost burden is the fraction of a household's total gross income spent on housing costs. For renters, housing costs include rent paid by the tenant plus utilities. For owners, housing costs include mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, and utilities.

A cost burden is defined as spending more than 30% of household income on housing.

Disproportionately greater needs exist when the percentage of persons in a category of need who are members of a particular racial or ethnic group is at least 10 percentage points higher than the percentage of persons in the category as a whole.

Using the data provided below the following disproportionate needs were identified:

 Black / African Americans are experience a severe housing cost burden  Hispanics are experiencing a cost burden

Housing Cost Burden

Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) Jurisdiction as a whole 10,470 2,820 2,315 215 White 8,820 2,225 1,500 145 Black / African American 1,220 360 650 70 Asian 65 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 40 0 10 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 0 Hispanic 290 155 95 0 Table 21 – Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens AMI Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

Discussion:

Disproportionately greater needs will be examined and addressed by the City during the 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Survey. The City will expand all housing-related program outreach efforts with the races and ethnicities identified, and will encourage Consolidated Plan housing partners to do the same. Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 69 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-30 Disproportionately Greater Need: Discussion – 91.205(b)(2) Are there any Income categories in which a racial or ethnic group has disproportionately greater need than the needs of that income category as a whole?

Extremely low-income Black / African Americans are experiencing one or more housing problems and severe housing cost burdens.

Extremely low- and moderate-income American Indian / Alaskan Natives are experiencing housing and severe housing problems, only a small portion of which are cost burdens.

Extremely low, low, moderate and middle-income Hispanics are experiencing housing problems including cost burdens, and severe housing problems of which a portion are severe cost burdens.

If they have needs not identified above, what are those needs?

All needs were identified above.

Are any of those racial or ethnic groups located in specific areas or neighborhoods in your community?

Racial and ethnic minorities are, for the most part, residing city-wide. However, there are two (2) locations where a four (4) or more city block concentration of 51% or more minority population have been identified:

 Valley Street to Illinois Street, and Estelle Street to Hudgins Circle. This area comprises a portion of the low- to moderate-income block groups 050510116004 and 050510115001, and the middle-income or above block group of 050510115002  Cedar Street to Sabie Street, and Daley Terrace to Pine Street. This area comprises a portion of the low- to moderate-income block group 050510108001

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 70 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-35 Public Housing – 91.205(b) Introduction

The Housing Authority of Hot Springs consists of a Public Housing (PH) program with two (2) Public Housing Authority (PHA) owned locations in the City of Hot Springs: Eastwood Gardens/Eastwood Heights consisting of 255-family housing one (1) to four (4) bedroom units, and Mountainview Towers, a 120-unit complex housing elderly, handicapped and disabled residents. Additionally, the City of Hot Springs Housing Authority administers 658 Section 8 rent-subsidy vouchers for privately owned homes, apartments and mobile homes across Garland County. 642 applicants representing 1,461 household members are on an estimated two (2) year waiting list. Preference is given to veteran, disabled, elderly, and working family applicants.

Eastwood Gardens and Eastwood Heights are in suitable condition, but are periodically updated to maintain market competitiveness. Renovations are needed in Mountainview Towers to repair and/or replace aging plumbing, update kitchens and expand living space from 350 sq. ft. to 500 sq. ft. per unit. The City of Hot Springs Housing Authority plans to utilize vacant lots to build additional elderly and disabled housing in the future as funding allows.

The Hot Springs Housing Authority has no adverse Section 504 discriminatory practices in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Housing Act or Architectural Barriers Act.

Totals in Use

Program Type Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher based based Veterans Family Disabled Affairs Unification * Supportive Program Housing # of units vouchers in use 0 0 348 684 0 684 0 0 0 Table 22 - Public Housing by Program Type *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition

Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center)

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Characteristics of Residents

Program Type Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher based based Veterans Family Affairs Unification Supportive Program Housing Average Annual Income 0 0 11,217 9,567 0 9,567 0 0 Average length of stay 0 0 3 2 0 2 0 0 Average Household size 0 0 2 2 0 2 0 0 # Homeless at admission 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 # of Elderly Program Participants (>62) 0 0 59 82 0 82 0 0 # of Disabled Families 0 0 101 179 0 179 0 0 # of Families requesting accessibility features 0 0 348 684 0 684 0 0 # of HIV/AIDS program participants 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 # of DV victims 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 23 – Characteristics of Public Housing Residents by Program Type

Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center)

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 72 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Race of Residents

Program Type Race Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher based based Veterans Family Disabled Affairs Unification * Supportive Program Housing White 0 0 200 447 0 447 0 0 0 Black/African American 0 0 144 234 0 234 0 0 0 Asian 0 0 1 2 0 2 0 0 0 American Indian/Alaska Native 0 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 24 – Race of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center)

Ethnicity of Residents

Program Type Ethnicity Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher based based Veterans Family Disabled Affairs Unification * Supportive Program Housing Hispanic 0 0 9 19 0 19 0 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 339 665 0 665 0 0 0 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 25 – Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents by Program Type

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 73 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center)

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 74 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants on the waiting list for accessible units:

The greatest applicant need according to the Hot Springs Public Housing Authority are 1-bedroom units particularly for extremely and low income disabled and near elderly, defined as late 50s.

Renovations are needed in accessible units within Mountainview Towers to repair and/or replace aging plumbing, update kitchens and expand living space from 350 sq. ft. to 500 sq. ft. per unit for current and future disabled and elderly tenants.

The Hot Springs Housing Authority noted an excess of $1 million in available resources to continue repairs, and has future plans to

Most immediate needs of residents of Public Housing and Housing Choice voucher holders

In July 2013, the Public Housing Authority had 642 applications representing 1,461 household members on an estimated two (2) year Section 8 and/or 6 month public housing waiting list. The waiting period for 1-bedroom units was longer, up to a year for accessible units for the disabled and elderly. Preference is given to veteran, disabled, elderly, and working family applicants as part of the Public Housing Authority selection process. It was also noted that many of the Section 8 housing voucher applicants were single female head of household.

The Clinton Cultural Campus, LIHTC and accessible housing provider noted no special needs residents on the waiting list for rental assistance. Similarly, Spa Area Independent Living The Community Housing Project, who provides rental assistance vouchers for approximately 45 accessible homes for up two (2) years to bridge the gap during waiting periods for programs such as Section 8 did not have a waiting list at the time of consultation, though did note that the bid process and availability of qualified contractors to complete improvements using Medicaid waivers up to $7,500 for in home accessibility modifications often delays needed improvements 60- to 90-days.

How do these needs compare to the housing needs of the population at large

The need for affordable 1-bedroom housing is common in public housing, assisted housing and the population at large. Physically and developmentally disabled housing is also needed in the overall population, particularly integrated housing according to service providers.

Discussion

In July of 2013, the Public Housing Authority reported available funding in excess of $1 million to continue necessary repairs, and had not yet formalized plans to construct additional housing units for the elderly and disabled, but were formulating plans to do so. The City of Hot Springs will support non- profit efforts to construct affordable housing, including the Public Housing Authority, by reducing

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 75 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) permitting fees, and as needed, assisting in the identification of vacant or abandoned properties and lots for home building purposes.

LIHTC provider, Clinton Cultural Campus, did not anticipate any change in waiting lists or state funding for disabled, and low income housing subsidies. Spa Area Independent Living did not anticipate changes to state funded rental assistance voucher availability to meet the needs of disabled residents. In all cases, continued state and federal funding for affordable housing initiatives remains a concern.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 76 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-40 Homeless Needs Assessment – 91.205(c) Introduction:

The Hot Springs area Continuum of Care (CoC), Southwest Arkansas Partnership, conducted a point in time homeless headcount in January of 2013 reporting a total street and sheltered population of:

 Adults: 1,199 (1,069 males, 52 females and 72 children)  School count: 144 (78 males, 66 females)  Unofficial school count: 458 (220 males, 238 females)

The Southwest Arkansas Partnership did not collect information regarding race, ethnicity, veteran status, type (individual vs. family), chronic homelessness, HIV/AIDS, accompanied vs. unaccompanied, or length of homelessness during the 2013 Point in Time homeless count. The information below was reported by the Arkansas Balance of State Continuum of Care (ARBos), a statewide coalition of Continuum of Cares including Hot Springs and ten (10) other state Continuum of Cares.

Homeless Needs Assessment

Population Estimate the # of persons Estimate the # Estimate the # Estimate the # Estimate the # experiencing homelessness experiencing becoming exiting of days persons on a given night homelessness homeless homelessness experience each year each year each year homelessness Sheltered Unsheltered Persons in Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) 26 27 0 0 0 0 Persons in Households with Only Children 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons in Households with Only Adults 1,299 73 0 0 0 0 Chronically Homeless Individuals 84 36 0 0 0 0 Chronically Homeless Families 1 1 0 0 0 0

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 77 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Estimate the # of persons Estimate the # Estimate the # Estimate the # Estimate the # experiencing homelessness experiencing becoming exiting of days persons on a given night homelessness homeless homelessness experience each year each year each year homelessness Sheltered Unsheltered Veterans 26 11 0 0 0 0 Unaccompanied Child 0 20 0 0 0 0 Persons with HIV 3 0 0 0 0 0 Table 26 - Homeless Needs Assessment

The above figures above were reported in the Arkansas Balance of State Strategic Plan report. The data available from the Hot Springs Southwest Arkansas Partnership (SWAP) Continuum of Care is a point-in-time (PIT) homeless count conducted in late January 2013. No data was collected or reported by SWAP regarding the Data Source Comments: population, the number experiencing, becoming, or exiting homelessness.

Indicate if the homeless population is: Has No Rural Homeless

If data is not available for the categories "number of persons becoming and exiting homelessness each year," and "number of days that persons experience homelessness," describe these categories for each homeless population type (including chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth):

As defined in the Arkansas Balance of Care Continuum of Care state-wide report: Studies have demonstrated that 80-85% of chronic homeless persons, (disabled individuals who have been on the streets or in shelters for the past year or have had four episodes of homelessness in the past three years), who access permanent supportive housing have remained housed.

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Nature and Extent of Homelessness: (Optional)

Race: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional)

White 0 0 Black or African American 0 0 Asian 0 0 American Indian or Alaska Native 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 Ethnicity: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional)

Hispanic 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 Data Source This data was not collected and is not available through the Southwest Arkansas Partnership Continuum of Care or Comments: Arkansas Balance of State Strategic Plan.

Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance for families with children and the families of veterans.

Based on consultations with service-providers, approximately 155 families with children including sheltered, unsheltered, and living with others (couch-surfing), and 40 veterans are in need of permanent housing.

Describe the Nature and Extent of Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group.

Data is not available.

Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness.

Services, shelters and transitional housing programs in Hot Springs have increased to serve the needs of the growing homeless population in Hot Springs. The State of Arkansas reported a 20% increase in homelessness between 2009-2011 compared to a 1% decrease nationwide.

Discussion:

Consultation with Hot Springs homeless shelters and service providers indicated that the homeless population was believed to be increasing at the statewide average of 20%. The majority of chronic homeless without shelter were felt to be non-medically controlled mentally-ill lacking insurance/prescription drug treament, and/or dually-diagnosed with substance-addiction. In both cases, there are no shelters or services to meet the needs of these homeless individuals.

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Single head of household with children are also an increasing population of the homeless, with a majority being sheltered in other homes besides their own (couch surfing).

Service providers and shelters, in consultations and public meetings, indicated that the need for additional shelters and services is a low priority at this time. The greater need is to increase the awareness and reporting of services and shelters currently available to meet the needs of the homeless through a countywide database. This project is currently underway through ProjectHOPE. With the increase in data availability, reports and findings derived from data will be more meaningful and present a more accurate picture of the homeless population and service intervention.

Also revealed during consultations was a need to foster leadership, operational and business planning skills amongst new Continuum of Care providers to develop solid business plans ensuring operational costs are accurately estimated and goals are supported by realistic sources of funding.

The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine the causes and demographics of homelessness, assist in linking data repositories, identify and report locations where homeless congregate during counting periods, engage discharging institutions in the prevention of homelessness, coordinate and facilitate the expertise of experienced providers as mentors for newer providers to better plan and utilize resources, provide outreach, and work with Consolidated Plan partners to examine ways to ameliorate conditions that create chronic homelessness amongst the mentally-ill. The Consolidated Plan objective to encourage economic development supports the Arkansas Balance of Care strategic plan goal of increasing employment of homeless entering programs by 10%.

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NA-45 Non-Homeless Special Needs Assessment - 91.205 (b,d) Introduction:

The City of Hot Springs has been world-renown for its thermal baths, rehabilitative and health services for over one hundred (100) years. Today, it is home to many retirees and persons with disabilities. This section discusses the needs of persons who are not homeless, but have special needs requiring supportive services, including:

 The elderly, defined as 62 and older  The frail elderly, defined as an elderly person who requires assistance with three or more activities of daily living, such as bathing, walking and performing light housework  Persons with mental, physical, and/or developmental disabilities  Persons with alcohol or other drug addiction  Persons with HIV/AIDS and their families  Victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking

Hot Springs is home to many service providers who meet the special needs of these individuals in the community. This section discusses unmet needs.

Describe the characteristics of special needs populations in your community:

2010 U.S. Census data indicates that 21.3% or 7,487 residents are over the age of sixty-five (65). According to the Administration on Aging, Aging Integrated Database (AGID) 37.2% of these sixty- five (65) and over seniors in Garland County has one or more disabilities: 28.8% sensory disability; 21% ambulatory disability; 10.2% cognitive disability; 5.4% self-care disability; and 9.9% independent living difficulties.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2010 reports that 28% of adults between the ages of twenty-one (21) and sixty-four (64) in Garland County have a disability.

In 2012, the Arkansas Department of Health reported substance-abuse treatment cases in Garland County for 592 adults and 37 children under the age of eighteen (18). In the same year 1,849 adults and 1,416 children under the age of eighteen (18) received mental healthcare services in Garland County.

What are the housing and supportive service needs of these populations and how are these needs determined?

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Non-homeless special needs were determined through consultations with service providers, citizen survey, and interactive public meetings.

The greatest need uncovered during discussions was a lack of resources to address the needs of persons with mental illness including persons with substance abuse dual diagnoses.

Physically Disabled Needs:

 Sidewalk improvements to permit mobility along major corridors  Neighborhood-integrated accessible affordable housing  Expansion of the City's para-route bus line coverage  Additional Public Housing single-bedroom units

Developmentally Disabled Needs:

 Another 24-hour supervised group home and 8-hour supervised apartment complex  An intermediate home for youth under 18 with developmental disabilities and/or behavior issues

Elderly / Frail Elderly Needs:

 Additional Public Housing single-bedroom units  Summer cooling shelters and winter warming shelters

Discuss the size and characteristics of the population with HIV/AIDS and their families within the Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area:

Information regarding the size and characteristics of the HIV/AIDS population within Hot Springs is extremely limited. There is no HOPWA organization within a 50 mile radius of Garland County. According to the HUD Continuum of Care Assistance Program, there are two (2) sheltered persons with HIV/AIDS in Central Arkansas. During consultations, citizen surveys, and interactive public meetings, no unmet needs for HIV/AIDS individuals and their families were uncovered.

Discussion:

This Consolidated Plan addresses the need for improved and new sidewalks in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods particularly accessibility and mobility needs, and supports non-profit housing development for the elderly and disabled, and accessible housing integration in neighborhoods. The City of Hot Springs will coordinate with the Housing Authority of Hot Springs to provide first time home- buyer education classes with financial assistance. In addition, this Consolidated Plan could assist with the Housing Authority's future plans to build affordable housing units for the elderly and disabled by waiving permitting fees, and as approved, land acquisition and/or infrastructure needs.

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The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine ways to ameliorate the conditions that affect the mentally-ill.

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NA-50 Non-Housing Community Development Needs – 91.215 (f) Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Facilities:

High Priorities:

 New public green space, community gardens, pocket parks  Parks improvements

Medium Priorities:

 Youth Center Facilities  Homeless Facilities

Low Priorities:

 Disabled Centers  Neighborhood/Community Centers  Senior Centers  Childcare Centers

How were these needs determined?

These needs were determined through consultations with service providers, non-profits, business and civic leaders, City staff and elected leaders, low- to moderate-income neighborhood associations, citizen surveys, and twelve (12) public meetings/hearings.

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Improvements:

High Priorities:

 Street improvements  Infrastructure improvements to encourage business / job growth  Sidewalks

Medium Priorities:

 Flood drainage improvements  Street lighting  Water and sewer improvements

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Low Priorities:

 Parking  Alley improvements

How were these needs determined?

These needs were determined through consultations with service providers, non-profits, business and civic leaders, City staff and elected leaders, low- to moderate-income neighborhood associations, citizen surveys, and twelve (12) public meetings/hearings.

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Services:

High Priorities:

 Blight reduction such as unsightly property, abandoned lot development, and code enforcement  Neglected / abused children services  Mental health services, specifically medication/prescription drug coverage for those not receiving Medicare/Medicaid benefits, and services for dually-diagnosed with substance- abuse addiction

Medium Priorities:

 Employment training and placement services  Crime prevention / avoidance training  Domestic violence services  Homeless services  Youth services  Small business loan assistance  Public transportation services  Veteran services  Substance abuse services  Disabled services  Energy efficiency education

Low Priorities:

 Business technical assistance  Fire prevention education  HIV/AIDS services

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 Childcare services  Fair housing education / enforcement  Lead based paint screening

How were these needs determined?

These needs were determined through consultations with service providers, non-profits, business and civic leaders, City staff and elected leaders, low- to moderate-income neighborhood associations, citizen surveys, and twelve (12) public meetings/hearings.

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Housing Market Analysis

MA-05 Overview Housing Market Analysis Overview:

The market analysis revealed a number of findings, including:

A 1.6% population decline between 2000 and 2010 (U.S. Census Bureau), followed by an estimated .8% increase between 2010 and 2012 (American Community Survey). During the same time periods the population of Garland County increased at or above Arkansas state averages of 9.3% between 2000 and 2010, and 1.1% between 2010 and 2012. It can be assumed that the City of Hot Springs experienced a population decline similar to many aging, urban cities during periods of economic stability as newer homes in suburban areas are available and mortgage lending is generous.

The ten (10) year population shift from older urban neighborhoods to newer suburban/rural homes may be reversing, or at a minimum stabilizing, as transportation costs rise, economic development is growing in the city, and municipal, Community Development Block Grant, private and public investments to reduce crime, blight, and improve infrastructure in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods where decent housing remains affordable make inner-city neighborhoods more appealing.

The supply of housing increased slightly by 134 units between 2000 and 2010.

Occupied units decreased by 1,275 with 4.1% homeowner and 14% renter vacancy rates. 4,144 total vacant units per the 2009-2011 American Community Survey 3-year Estimates.

Homeownership decreased 1.2% to 56.1%, slightly less than the population decrease of 1.6% during the same time period. Hot Springs homeownership remains below the 67.5% homeownership rate in Arkansas.

With assistance, homeownership may once again be within the reach of some low- to moderate-income families. First time home-buyer with State funded down payment assistance programs would help the dream of homeownership become a reality for these families.

Public, elderly, disabled and LIHTC housing remains unchanged.

Homeless shelter capacity has increased by over 100 beds in the last five (5) years. Homeless, at-risk and non-homeless special needs services have also increased and broadened to include veterans, former-felons, domestic and sexual violence victims, poverty cycle intervention / family self-sufficiency programs, and greater children/family, disabled and elderly support.

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Extremely low income renters are in the most need of more decent, affordable one (1) bedroom housing. Many of these renters are paying more than half of their wages for housing.

The need for infill / redevelopment has increased particularly in older, inner-city low-income neighborhoods where condemned homes have been razed and lots remain vacant.

Median age of residents is 39, and the workforce is aging faster than the rest of the country. Primary industries include healthcare, education, arts, entertainment, accommodations, and retail. Commercial corridors and historic buildings are underutilized or vacant and in need of rehabilitation. A concentrated effort amongst many organizations is required to encourage business and job growth, investment, improved infrastructure, and education, attraction and retention of a new workforce in new industries.

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MA-10 Number of Housing Units – 91.210(a)&(b)(2) Introduction

The housing market in Hot Springs can be generally characterized as older homes occupied by low, moderate and middle-income in the mature and historic neighborhoods surrounding the greater downtown area, with newer homes extending out to the southern periphery along transportation corridors constructed after 1970. Since 1979 there has been a steady decline in new home building in the City of Hot Springs. Between the years of 2005 and 2010 approximately 800 new homes were built, whereas in the previous five (5) years between 2000 and 2004 1,150 homes were built. 42% of current homes were constructed between 1970 and 1999, while 45% of the housing stock was built before 1970.

Single-family detached units account for a predominant share (63%), of which 56.6% are owner- occupied, up from 49.1% in 2000, with a median value of $112,000 compared to $105,100 across Arkansas. Condominiums, townhomes and other attached single-family units comprise 3%. 21% are attached two (2) to nineteen (19) multi-unit structures such as apartments, and 8% twenty (20) or more units.

61% of units feature between three (3) and seven (7) rooms, with only 4.5% one (1) or two (2) room units. 96% of owner occupied and 69% of renter occupied units are two (2) or more bedroom, with 3% and 28% being one (1) bedroom respectively.

The homeownership rate in Hot Springs is 56% compared to Arkansas statewide rate of 67.5%. Housing in multi-unit structures is 29.3% in Hot Springs compared to the Arkansas average of 15.3%.

All residential properties by number of units

Property Type Number % 1-unit detached structure 12,111 63% 1-unit, attached structure 533 3% 2-4 units 2,290 12% 5-19 units 1,787 9% 20 or more units 1,482 8% Mobile Home, boat, RV, van, etc 897 5% Total 19,100 100% Table 27 – Residential Properties by Unit Number Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

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Unit Size by Tenure

Owners Renters Number % Number % No bedroom 0 0% 206 3% 1 bedroom 293 3% 1,902 28% 2 bedrooms 2,549 29% 2,930 43% 3 or more bedrooms 5,803 67% 1,785 26% Total 8,645 99% 6,823 100% Table 28 – Unit Size by Tenure Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Describe the number and targeting (income level/type of family served) of units assisted with federal, state, and local programs.

Spa Area Independent Living (SAILS) administers approximately 45 rental assistance vouchers for people with disabilities transitioning out of or at risk of institutionalization through an Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (ADFA) grant. In addition, they coordinate federal Medicaid waivers for daily housing needs coverage to provide one-time in home accessibility modifications as applicable up to $7,500. With federal HUD funding the Hot Springs Housing Authority operates two (2) units housing 245 low-income families and 120 elderly, handicapped and disabled residents. Also through HUD funding, the Housing Authority administers 658 Section 8 vouchers for extremely-low, very-low, low and moderate income individuals and families. The Cultural Campus administers HUD low income housing tax credits (LIHTC) to provide rent subsidies of 40% for residents earning between $11,000-$24,000 and 70% under $10,000.

Provide an assessment of units expected to be lost from the affordable housing inventory for any reason, such as expiration of Section 8 contracts.

No affordable home losses are anticipated as a result of Section 8, Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), or Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration grants or contracts, however continued levels of state and federal funding for affordable housing is always a concern. An average of twenty (20) deteriorating homes per year are condemned and razed due to public safety issues.

Does the availability of housing units meet the needs of the population?

During consultations with service providers two (2) unmet housing needs were identified.

Describe the need for specific types of housing:

There is a growing need for decent, affordable, one (1) bedroom rental units for extremely and very low- income renters particularly those exiting homelessness, incarceration, substance abuse treatment or

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foster care after obtaining employment. There is also a need for accessible, neighborhood-integrated housing for low- to moderate-income residents with disabilities.

Discussion

Garland County Habitat for Humanity recently began building new homes on infill lots rather than village clusters, and is including smaller, 2 bedroom units for elderly and disabled residents. This will assist in meeting the need for accessible, neighborhood-integrated housing. In addition, the Hot Springs Housing Authority has future plans to build new, small homes particularly for low-income elderly and disabled residents. The City supports the efforts of these organizations to provide decent, affordable housing through infrastructure, vacant lot coordination, and reduced permitting fees.

Those exiting homelessness, incarceration, substance abuse treatment and foster care have limited, affordable, rental options. In many cases, the seasonal, part-time employment these residents are able to obtain limits their choice to extended-stay, efficiency unit motels. It is believed that the combination of seasonal employment and frequent unemployment, and less-than-desirable housing is a contributing factor in the cycle of homelessness. This Consolidated Plan proposes much needed infrastructure improvements to encourage economic development and job growth that will provide full-time, long term job opportunities for these extremely low-income residents in an effort to break this cycle.

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MA-15 Housing Market Analysis: Cost of Housing - 91.210(a) Introduction

Over the last ten (10) years, the cost of housing has fluctuated greatly as supply and demand have changed. According to U.S. Census data, between 2005 and 2010 800 new homes were built, but requests for new permits indicates an increase in building over the last year. During the same 2005- 2010 time period 44% of home-owners and renters moved into their current residence compared with 19% between 2000 and 2004 (American Community Survey). The rise in housing movement may relate to changes in the ability to afford housing due to loss of employment, the result of unfair lending practices, foreclosure, or other economic conditions. While many households are able to downsize, the very and extremely low-income residents have experienced an increase in cost burden and a shortage of decent, affordable rental housing.

HAMFI represents the HUD Area Median Family Income as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and reported in U.S. Census data for statistical analysis purposes.

Cost of Housing

Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2011 % Change Median Home Value 69,200 113,300 64% Median Contract Rent 342 680 99% Table 29 – Cost of Housing

Alternate Data Source Name: Median Housing Value Data Source Comments: U.S. Census Bureau, 2009-2011 American Community Survey 3-year estimates provided for Most Recent Year figures.

Rent Paid Number % Less than $500 4,301 63.0% $500-999 2,042 29.9% $1,000-1,499 247 3.6% $1,500-1,999 99 1.5% $2,000 or more 134 2.0% Total 6,823 100.0% Table 30 - Rent Paid Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

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Housing Affordability

% Units affordable to Households Renter Owner earning 30% HAMFI 600 No Data 50% HAMFI 1,715 935 80% HAMFI 4,065 2,145 100% HAMFI No Data 3,075 Total 6,380 6,155 Table 31 – Housing Affordability Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

Monthly Rent

Monthly Rent ($) Efficiency (no 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom bedroom) Fair Market Rent 428 531 719 957 1,174 High HOME Rent 428 531 701 801 874 Low HOME Rent 428 463 556 642 717 Table 32 – Monthly Rent Data Source Comments: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 04/2013 Hot Springs, AR MSA HOME FMR

Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels?

Since demand for affordable housing is increasing, many extremely-low income households must pay more than they should for a home, or live in less-than-desired conditions. As reported in the Needs Analysis section, the 2006-2010 CHAS estimates that approximately 4,578 low- to moderate-income renter households and approximately 2,025 low- to moderate-income owner households in the City are experiencing a cost burden. The number of extremely and very low-income renters who pay more than 30% of their income is disproportionately high compared to that of other households. In consultations with service-providers and during public meetings, a need for decent, affordable, efficiency or 1- bedroom rentals was identified.

How is affordability of housing likely to change considering changes to home values and/or rents?

Rent has almost doubled over the last ten (10) years, and home values have increased by over half, however cost remains below national averages.

The 2007-2011 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates indicate that the greatest need is for 1- bedroom (398) and 2-bedroom (661) rental units, and 3-bedoom (948) owner-occupied housing. As

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demand for this type of housing increases, it is expected that costs will increase unless supply also increases.

How do HOME rents / Fair Market Rent compare to Area Median Rent? How might this impact your strategy to produce or preserve affordable housing?

The majority of renters (63%) pay less than the Area Median Rent ($608), but more than the Fair Market Rent for efficiency ($428) and 1-bedroom ($531). This reinforces the need for decent, affordable 1- bedroom rental units.

Discussion

Many low- and moderate-income persons and households, especially the extremely low-income households, those exiting homelessness, foster care, incarceration, and substance-abuse treatment, and other persons with special needs, have problems finding and obtaining affordable housing. Therefore, the City's strategy to affordable housing is to support Consolidated Plan partners that expand and preserve affordable rental housing opportunities, particularly for low-income persons, and further examine ways to ameliorate the conditions that can prevent residents from obtaining quality, affordable housing.

In addition, the City will continue to sponsor home-ownership education and counseling with financial assistance for first-time home-buyers to increase home ownership in Hot Springs.

The Consolidated Plan includes a 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study to examine barriers that could be contributing to affordable housing availability. Based on the results of that survey, the City will take action to remove barriers.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 94 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

MA-20 Housing Market Analysis: Condition of Housing – 91.210(a) Introduction

According to the 2010 U.S. Census there are 14,385 houses. 84% (12,079) are occupied; 51% owner- occupied and 33% renter-occupied. 16% (2,306) are unoccupied. Of those that are unoccupied, 6.5% are for rent, .1% rented but not occupied, 1.6% for sale only, .4% sold but not occupied, 2.3% seasonal / occasional use, and 5.1% or approximately 732 are vacant. The estimated foreclosure rate in Garland County is 2.3%. Evidence suggests that foreclosed homes remain vacant without possibility of occupancy for approximately two (2) years as lenders process homes between the time of eviction and resale. These vacant homes are believed to be suitable for occupancy with or without rehabilitation.

The U.S. Census reported a 1.6% population decline in the City of Hot Springs between 2000 and 2010, followed by an estimated .8% increase between 2010 and 2012, indicating an initial decrease in occupancy followed by an increase. Approximately 1,950 new homes have been constructed since 2000. 44% of home-owners and renters moved into their current residence within the last 8 years according to the American Community Survey.

Median value as reported by the 2007-2011 American Community Survey 5-year estimate of Hot Springs homes is $112,000 compared to $105,100 across the State of Arkansas. The H+T Affordability Index, a comprehensive view of affordability, which includes the cost of housing and transportation at the neighborhood level indicates that housing costs in Hot Springs with greater than 30% of income cost burden are primarily concentrated in two (2) areas of Hot Springs referred to as Quapaw/Prospect and East Gate, which are not designated as LMI areas. However, extremely low income residents in LMI areas are also experiencing a cost burden of over 30%.

Condition characteristics noted by the 2007-2011 American Community Survey 5-year Estimate report 67 or .4% of homes lack complete plumbing, 216 or 1.4% lack complete kitchens, and 367 or 2.4% have more than one (1) occupant per room.

The exact number of disabled, accessible housing units in Hot Springs or Garland County is not available through the American Community Survey. The Hot Springs Housing Authority operates 120 accessible units for the elderly and disabled. The Clinton Cultural Campus has 70 accessible rental-units, 5 of which are currently occupied by disabled residents. Spa Area Independent Living provides rental assistance vouchers for accessible rental-homes to 45 disabled individuals and their families, and case management for Medicaid waivers that cover daily housing needs including $7,500 vouchers for in home accessibility modifications. First Step operates 2 group homes and an apartment complex with 58 units total for the developmentally disabled. The Arkansas Career Training Institute provides dorm housing for approximately 170 disabled resident students, with capacity for up to 300.

Definitions

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 95 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

Housing is considered to be in standard condition when it meets all state and local codes. Housing is considered substandard but suitable for rehabilitation if the unit is in poor condition, but is structurally and financially feasible to rehabilitate. Housing with significant structural damage is considered substandard and not suitable for rehabilitation.

Condition of Units

Condition of Units Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % With one selected Condition 2,261 26% 3,215 47% With two selected Conditions 52 1% 223 3% With three selected Conditions 11 0% 13 0% With four selected Conditions 0 0% 0 0% No selected Conditions 6,321 73% 3,372 49% Total 8,645 100% 6,823 99% Table 33 - Condition of Units Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Year Unit Built

Year Unit Built Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % 2000 or later 901 10% 416 6% 1980-1999 2,117 24% 1,583 23% 1950-1979 3,977 46% 3,465 51% Before 1950 1,650 19% 1,359 20% Total 8,645 99% 6,823 100% Table 34 – Year Unit Built Data Source: 2006-2010 CHAS

Risk of Lead-Based Paint Hazard Risk of Lead-Based Paint Hazard Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % Total Number of Units Built Before 1980 5,627 65% 4,824 71% Housing Units build before 1980 with children present 280 3% 4,649 68% Table 35 – Risk of Lead-Based Paint Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS (Total Units) 2006-2010 CHAS (Units with Children present)

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 96 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

Vacant Units

Suitable for Not Suitable for Total Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Vacant Units 2,286 20 2,306 Abandoned Vacant Units 712 20 732 REO Properties 73 0 73 Abandoned REO Properties 0 0 0 Table 36 - Vacant Units Alternate Data Source Name: Vacant Housing Units Data Source Comments:

Need for Owner and Rental Rehabilitation

Using Community Development Block Grant funding, the City of Hot Springs has been providing owner- occupied housing rehabilitation services to qualifying low- to moderate-income households for over ten (10) years. As a result, well over 100 homes now meet code and are considered to be in standard condition. At this time of this Consolidated Plan 110 low- to moderate-income households are on the owner-occupied housing rehabilitation waiting list. An accurate count of renter-occupied homes requiring rehabilitation is not available, but based on owner-occupied results and waiting list, could be roughly estimated at 200.

Citizen surveys, consultations and public hearings listed housing rehabilitation as a low priority. The number of qualifying households is approximately 50% of applicants. CDBG funding levels and available resources are not readily available to continue the housing rehabilitation program.

Estimated Number of Housing Units Occupied by Low or Moderate Income Families with LBP Hazards

Age of housing units is one way to estimate the number of units that might contain lead-based paint hazards. The federal government banned lead-based paint from housing in 1978, therefore homes built after 1979 should be free from those hazards. Not all housing built before 1978 contains lead-based paint, but the age of a home can be used to estimate the number of units that may be affected. Using the 2006-2010 ACS and CHAS data above it can be estimated that 4,929 units occupied by families may contain lead-based paint. The majority of low- to moderate-income residents reside in older, inner-city neighborhoods where most homes were likely built before 1979. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Envirofacts website, 2% of homes in Garland County pose a lead based paint risk, much lower than the number of homes estimated by ACS and CHAS.

Discussion

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The cornerstone of the City's qualify of life is its housing stock. How people feel about where they live depends to a large extent on the availability, condition, and affordability of the housing supply. The City's strategy in this Consolidated Plan is to continue supporting non-profit/volunteer efforts to provide housing rehabilitation services, and work with plan partners to address and ameliorate substandard housing conditions.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 98 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

MA-25 Public and Assisted Housing – 91.210(b) Introduction

The Housing Authority of the City of Hot Springs consists of a Public Housing (PH) program with two (2) Public Housing Authority (PHA) owned locations in the City of Hot Springs: Eastwood Gardens/Eastwood Heights consisting of 255-family housing one (1) to four (4) bedroom units, and Mountainview Towers, a 120-unit complex housing elderly, and disabled residents. Additionally, the City of Hot Springs Housing Authority administers 658 Section 8 rent-subsidy vouchers for privately owned homes, apartments and mobile homes across Garland County. Demand for public housing currently exceeds availability with significant need for handicapped accessible one (1) bedroom units. 642 applicants representing 1,461 household members are on an estimated two (2) year waiting list; approximately 75 applications are reviewed per quarter with approximately half leading to contract. Preference is given to veteran, disabled, elderly, and working family applicants. Working family residents that do not maintain employment, or enrollment in continuing education or training programs for a period of six (6) months following initial occupancy are enrolled in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program which helps families gain employment, economic independence, and self-sufficiency. Eastwood Gardens and Eastwood Heights are in suitable condition. Renovations are needed in Mountainview Towers to repair and/or replace aging plumbing, update kitchens and expand living space from 350 sq. ft. to 500 sq. ft. per unit. The City of Hot Springs Housing Authority plans to utilize vacant lots to build additional elderly and disabled housing in the future as funding allows.

Totals Number of Units

Program Type Certificate Mod-Rehab Public Vouchers Housing Total Project -based Tenant -based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Family Disabled Affairs Unification * Supportive Program Housing # of units vouchers available 375 658 0 0 0 # of accessible units *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 37 – Total Number of Units by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center)

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Describe the supply of public housing developments:

Describe the number and physical condition of public housing units in the jurisdiction, including those that are participating in an approved Public Housing Agency Plan:

The Hot Springs Housing Authority operates the Public Housing (PH) program with two (2) Public Housing Authority (PHA) owned locations in the City of Hot Springs: Eastwood Gardens/Eastwood Heights consisting of 255-family housing one (1) to four (4) bedroom units, and Mountainview Towers, a 120-unit complex housing elderly, handicapped and disabled residents. Additionally, the City of Hot Springs Housing Authority administers 658 Section 8 rent-subsidy vouchers for privately owned homes, apartments and mobile homes across Garland County.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 100 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

Public Housing Condition

Public Housing Development Average Inspection Score Mountainview Towers 88.42 Eastwood Gardens 84.68 Table 38 - Public Housing Condition

Describe the restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units in the jurisdiction:

Eastwood Gardens/Eastwood Heights is in suitable condition, but continuously updated to improve energy efficiency, and remain competitive with current market units to maintain high occupancy rates. Renovations are needed in Mountainview Towers to repair and/or replace plumbing, update kitchens, and ideally expand living space from 350 sq. ft. to 500 sq. ft. per unit.

Describe the public housing agency's strategy for improving the living environment of low- and moderate-income families residing in public housing:

The Housing Authority of the City of Hot Springs is committed to providing quality, affordable housing, which is decent and safe to eligible families in the community. They strive to make the best use of all available resources so that residents may live in an environment that is well maintained and attractive. To this end, useful outdoor commons areas have been constructed to promote a more community-minded development. The City of Hot Springs Police Department has an assigned Officer that works closely with the housing authority administration to enforce local and state laws as well as housing authority policies. Effective unit, bicycle and foot patrols have reduced drug activity and instilled pride amongst the community. Dedicated Resident Opportunities and Self Sufficiency (ROSS) and a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program coordinators work with residents to assess needs and connect them with available services including health screening, food pantries, opportunities to increase earned income, reduce or eliminate the need for welfare assistance, make progress toward achieving economic independence and housing self-sufficiency, and in the case of elderly or disabled residents, help improve living conditions and enable residents to age-in-place or coordinate with family members to transition to a more suitable care facility.

Discussion:

The City of Hot Springs supports Housing Authority goals to create a safe environment by providing a dedicated police officer, encouraging independent-living and home-ownership by coordinating first time home-buyer education programs with financial assistance through the Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator to engage residents enrolled in Family Self-Sufficiency program, and efforts to expand and improve housing units by reducing permitting fees for new construction and rehabilitation projects.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 101 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

MA-30 Homeless Facilities and Services – 91.210(c) Introduction

Although the number of homeless and at-risk persons is not in decline, the organizations and programs designed to meet their needs are increasing. Over the last five (5) years greater attention on homelessness has resulted in increased emergency shelter, transition programs and services in Hot Springs. There are thirty-four (34) emergency beds for women with children and an additional sixty (60) transitional for female domestic violence victims; twenty eight (28) emergency beds for men only, ten (10) transitional for men, and twenty (20) emergency/transitional for unaccompanied youth. Additional transitional and permanent support housing is dedicated to the developmentally disabled at risk of institutionalization or homelessness. Efforts are underway to open a shelter for veterans and their families, a domestic violence women with children shelter, and Ouachita Children's Center homelessness prevention / anti-povery program is being created using FY2013 Community Development Block Grant funding.

Available services include meals and food banks/pantries; GED education; independent living and job skills training; medical/dental/vision care; pre-natal specific care; non-mental healthcare prescriptions; emergency out-patient and limited in-patient mental healthcare; psychiatric, individual, family, substance abuse and peer counseling; job placement; school supplies and meals; clothing and furniture; crisis intervention and prevention; case management; and many other programs and services to end the cycle of homelessness and poverty.

Through community-wide partnerships homelessness providers are able to extend services to provide health and wellness education, physical activity/exercise opportunities, employment placement, GED testing facilities, and more.

Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households

Emergency Shelter Beds Transitional Permanent Supportive Housing Housing Beds Beds Year Round Beds Voucher / Current & New Current & New Under (Current & New) Seasonal / Development Overflow Beds Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) 96 0 0 0 0 Households with Only Adults 28 0 174 38 0

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Emergency Shelter Beds Transitional Permanent Supportive Housing Housing Beds Beds Year Round Beds Voucher / Current & New Current & New Under (Current & New) Seasonal / Development Overflow Beds Chronically Homeless Households 0 0 0 0 0 Veterans 0 0 0 0 0 Unaccompanied Youth 0 0 20 0 0 Table 39 - Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households Data Source Comments: Data collected during consultations with homeless and at-risk providers.

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Describe mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the extent those services are use to complement services targeted to homeless persons

The Charitable Christian Medical Clinic provides free medical, dental, and vision care treatment, as well as no or reduced-cost referrals for diagnostics and surgeries, no-cost non-mental-health prescriptions, diabetes wellness education programs and psychiatric counseling services to patients without insurance, Medicare and Medicaid. While homeless and at-risk, and other situational and financial information is not collected from patients it is assumed that the majority of individuals and families seeking treatment at the clinic are at-risk.

Levi Hospital offers emergency room, outpatient mental healthcare and additional service referrals through two (2) staff Licensed Social Workers.

Homeless shelters work with area temporary job placement offices to assist homeless in finding employment.

Gaps cited by homeless providers include in-patient mental healthcare, mental health prescription drug coverage for individuals without Medicaid/Medicare coverage, emergency/transitional/permanent supportive shelters and housing for homeless suffering from mental illness; Greater outreach to run- away unaccompanied youth, and homeless school students encouraging them to seek existing services.

List and describe services and facilities that meet the needs of homeless persons, particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth. If the services and facilities are listed on screen SP-40 Institutional Delivery Structure or screen MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services, describe how these facilities and services specifically address the needs of these populations.

Safe Haven Women and Children's Shelter is a thirty-four (34) bed facility providing women with children access to food and shelter. Services include case management for public assistance and medical needs, a clothing bank, education including GED, nutrition, skill-training, self-improvement and parenting classes. Effective October 2013, Safe Haven has become a faith-based non-profit organization offering faith-based counseling services.

Potter's Clay Ministries Inc. is a secure sixty (60) bed domestic violence shelter serving homeless and at- risk of homelessness women with crisis intervention, prevention and recovery services.

Ouachita Children's Center is a twenty (20) bed, forty-five (45) to sixty (60) day stay facility for children at-risk of homelessness and unaccompanied youth between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) with a focus on both children and their families to end generational poverty, abuse and neglect cycles through parenting programs, gender-specific behavioral interaction counseling, and independent living skills training. Children may be referred through the Garland County Court, or while awaiting foster placement. Unaccompanied, run-away youth are assisted in finding and returning to their families. Services include funding for tutors and summer enrichment programs to keep children on grade level, and increase reading and math scores; school breakfast, lunch and snack Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 104 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

programs. Partnerships with the YMCA provide exercise opportunities and the Department of Health for health classes.

The Hot Springs School District offers a wide-range of services to sheltered, unsheltered and displaced "couch surfing" students and their families including individual and family counseling, additional academic instruction, school materials and supplies, coordination and advocacy, instruction in age- appropriate social skills, medical/dental/mental health needs, parenting education, after school enrichment programs, extended year enrichment programs, in-school breakfast/lunch/snack programs, take-home non-perishable food supplies for family weekend meals, used furniture, bus and hotel vouchers.

Samaritan Ministries operates a twenty-eight (28) bed overnight, emergency shelter for men, including veterans and chronically homeless, up to ten (10) nights per month with shower, clean clothes, interdenominational chapel services and a full hot meal. A ten (10) bed forty-five (45) day resident program for men to transition out of homelessness includes thirty (30) hours per week of job and life skills training, in-house nutrition, computer skills and budgeting classes, medical care referrals and Medicaid/Medicare application assistance, as well as an exercise program in partnership with the Hot Springs YMCA, and job placement services through Express Personnel.

StoneWorks Agency provides homeless and at-risk of homelessness veterans and former-felons, and their families, with services including peer counseling; GED education, and testing opportunities through partnerships with Worforce of Arkansas and National Park Community College; Referrals to fair housing, employment, homeless shelter, substance abuse, and PTSD counseling services; Coordination with Haven and ProjectHOPE food pantries; and assistance with Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits and service needs. A homeless shelter for veterans and former-felons is planned for 2014.

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MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services – 91.210(d) Introduction

2010 U.S. Census data indicates that 21.3% or 7,487 residents are over the age of sixty-five (65). According to the Administration on Aging, Aging Integrated Database (AGID) 37.2% of these sixty- five (65) and over seniors in Garland County have one or more disabilities: 28.8% sensory disability; 21% ambulatory disability; 10.2% cognitive disability; 5.4% self-care disability; and 9.9% independent living difficulties.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2010 reports that 28% of adults between the ages of twenty-one (21) and sixty-four (64) in Garland County have a disability.

A wide range of health, substance abuse, disabled, and elderly support services and facilities are available to meet most needs.

Hot Springs Housing Authority operates 120 units for the elderly, frail elderly and mentally/physically disabled.

Spa Area Independent Living provides housing assistance for the physically and mentally disabled who are transitioning out of or at risk of institutionalization including rental vouchers for approximately 45 accessible homes for up 2 years and Case Management services including Medicaid waivers for home accessibility modifications.

The Clinton Cultural Campus offers accessible apartments for physically disabled residents, which can include financial assistance through Section 8 vouchers and low income housing tax credits (LIHTC).

First Step operates 2 group homes for the developmentally disabled with 24-hour supervision of 38 adults over 18 who would otherwise be institutionalized, and an apartment complex for 20 high functioning developmentally disabled adults with 8-hour supervision.

Arkansas Career Training Institute currently houses 170 physically, learning, accident-related, and mentally disabled students enrolled in career training programs.

Levi Hospital Inpatient Psychiatric Unit offers 22 beds to treat adults over 18 with psychiatric illnesses, many are frail elderly.

Teen Challenge operates a 14-month addiction-recovery program for males over 18 with resident housing.

Quapaw House offers adult residential substance-abuse treatment for approximately 20 over the age of 18 for a minimum of 21 days, but may be longer depending on needs.

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Case management, housing advocacy, transition education and support, work skill training, and other services are provided to support the housing and non-housing needs of special-needs residents.

Including the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, developmental), persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, public housing residents and any other categories the jurisdiction may specify, and describe their supportive housing needs

There are 120 public housing units for the elderly, frail elderly and mentally/physically disabled. Rental vouchers for 45 mentally and physically disabled transitioning out of or at risk of institutionalization. 2 group homes with 24-hour supervision for 38 developmentally disabled adults, and 20 apartments with 8-hour supervision for high functioning developmentally disabled adults. 170-300 dormitory apartments for physically, learning, accident-related and mentally disabled students enrolled in career training programs. Over 60 adult substance abuse residential treatment (40 adult male only). 22 inpatient mental health/psychiatric treatment beds, primarily for the elderly.

During consultations, a lack of supportive housing and services for the non-medically controlled mentally-ill or dual-diagnosed with substance abuse was noted as a contributing factor in the local cycle of chronic homelessness. Additional 1-bedroom units for the developmentally disabled, and neighborhood-integrated housing for the physically disabled were also identified as needs.

Describe programs for ensuring that persons returning from mental and physical health institutions receive appropriate supportive housing

Hot Springs Housing Authority employs a coordinator who works with the elderly and disabled to assess needs, connect them to needed services such as health screening and commodities such as food, and monitors for dementia/Alzheimer's, and other behavioral patterns that may require family intervention and/or additional support.

First Step and Spa Area Independent Living are directly involved housing advocacy for the mentally and physically disabled transitioning out of or at risk of institutionalization, and provides transitional services including but not limited to housing referral services, support to ensure communal living success, and assistance finding household furnishings and other necessities.

Levi Hospital employs 2 Case Managers who consult with elderly, frail elderly and inpatient, outpatient and emergency psychiatric patients to identify needs, and recommend supportive housing options.

Elderly Care Placement serves the elderly with free services such as consultation, needs assessment, tour of appropriate homes, nursing and assisted living facilities.

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Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one-year goals. 91.315(e)

The strategy of this Consolidated Plan is to continue supporting non-profit affordable housing plan partners, such as the Housing Authority and Habitat for Humanity, in their efforts to provide affordable housing for the elderly, frail elderly and disabled by coordinating available land opportunities, reduced permitting fees, and providing municipal infrastructure. The City will also continue outreach coordination with special-needs service providers to increase home-ownership and neighborhood- integration for special-needs individuals and their families through the first time home buyers education and financial assistance program.

The City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine the supportive housing and services gap with the non-medically controlled and/or substance-abuse dually-diagnosed mentally-ill, and explore ways to ameliorate the conditions that create chronic homelessness.

One year goals anticipate an increase in low- to moderate-income homeownership of 35 or more individuals/families through home buyer education programs with state funded financial assistance, 30% of which can be estimated to have a disability.

In addition, businesses receiving CDBG municipal infrastructure improvement funding for economic development and job growth purposes will be encouraged to include outreach to physically- disabled, developmentally-disabled, elderly, single head of household, and other special needs individuals in their recruitment strategy.

For entitlement/consortia grantees: Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one-year goals. (91.220(2))

It is reasonably expected that the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (ADFA) will continue to support non-profit home buying education programs by providing down-payment and closing cost assistance up to $10,000 per qualifying individual/family completing the program. By allocating up to $10,000 per fiscal year in CDBG funding to secure the services of an ADFA-funded non- profit home buying education agency, federal funds will be maximized for qualifying low- to moderate- income homebuyers including those with non-homeless special needs who are through City outreach efforts. It is expected that 70 or more individuals/families will attend home buying classes each fiscal year, no less than 35 will pursue home ownership, which equates to a minimum 1:35 ratio of federal and state funds.

The City of Hot Springs supports non-profit affordable home builders by coordinating publically owned land procurement opportunities through the Planning & Development Department, Neighborhood Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 108 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

Services Division, and annually reducing or waiving rehabilitation and other permitting fees for such agencies. Beneficiaries include Habitat for Humanity who provides at least 1 accessible home for non- homeless special needs individuals/families each year, and the Hot Springs Housing Authority who provides housing for elderly and disabled residents, and preference given to veteran applicants.

Neighborhood improvement projects are focused on accessibility and livability in Fiscal Year 2014 including sidewalk repairs and curb cuts to improve mobility, Whittington City Park park accessibility ramp and picnic tables to improve quality of life, increased crosswalk visibility and pedestrian island for residents in elderly and disabled housing complexes crossing a 5 lane high traffic area on Park Avenue, and a sheltered bus stop for the same residents. The Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association is applying for state and federal grants for continued sidewalk repairs surrounding Whittington City Park. Park Avenue Community Association is pursuing private and public grants to create an accessible community garden on a privately-donated vacant lot in which residents have volunteered in-kind design, landscaping and legal services. In addition, the Arkansas Department of Transportation has committed roadway and related sidewalk/curb & gutter improvements on Park Avenue in 2016, which will greatly complement Fiscal Year 2014 CDBG funded improvements.

The City will also continue outreach coordination with special-needs service providers to increase home- ownership and neighborhood-integration for special-needs individuals and their families through the first time home buyers education and financial assistance program. The City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine the supportive housing and services gap with the non- medically controlled and/or substance-abuse dually-diagnosed mentally-ill, and explore ways to ameliorate the conditions that create chronic homelessness.

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 109 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

MA-40 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.210(e) Negative Effects of Public Policies on Affordable Housing and Residential Investment

The City of Hot Springs has carefully examined its public policy and those of other agencies to remove or amend policies negatively affecting the cost of developing, maintaining or improving affordable housing.

The City annually re-adopts permit fees and charges waiver for providers of affordable housing. The City offers expedited permitting for manufactured home siting via its Manufactured Home Overlay regulations with no difference in approvals whether stick/site-built or manufactured. City of Hot Springs does not have an ad valorem (“millage”) property tax on residential properties.

In 2012 the City adopted Zoning Code amendments to clarify Reasonable Accomodation request standards and procedures. August 2012, the City of Hot Springs Planning Commission amended the 1990 enacted Fair Housing Ordinance No. 4054, Chapter 16 of the Hot Springs Zoning Code to be more consistent with the Federal Fair Housing Act in response to Public Policy Impediments. The amendment includes redefining dwelling and dwelling unit; adding definitions of familial status, person with a disability, physical or mental impairment, and reasonable accommodation; the creation of an additional Enforcement category Article II, Administrative Procedures and Enforcement to establish procedures for reviewing and documenting reasonable accommodation requests.

The City of Hot Springs Planning & Development Department continues to insure that all sub-grantees receiving CDBG funds had up-to-date Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plans; displayed Fair Housing posters and included the Fair Housing logo on all printed materials, as appropriate; provided beneficiaries with information on protected class members and instructions on how to file a complaint. In addition, City Planning & Development staff attend state and national training sessions on Fair Housing regulations and standards to stay informed.

The City of Hot Springs expanded its Fair Housing outreach by providing fair housing information brochures at city and public facilities and events, and sponsored public service announcements with media organizations that provide such services to local government.

This Consolidated Plan includes a recommendation to fund a 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice study, after which the City will take appropriate actions to address and ameliorate any barriers identified.

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MA-45 Non-Housing Community Development Assets – 91.215 (f) Introduction

The redevelopment and revitalization of downtown Hot Springs is the greatest opportunity for enhancing economic vitality. Across the country, cities both small and large have rediscovered the importance of their downtowns. Through most of its history, downtown was a major destination for tourism and economic activity within Hot Springs. Its proximity to Hot Springs National Park and the presence of Bathhouse Row drew visitors to the region for over a century. But, downtown Hot Springs has lost much of its luster. Historic structures are in need of investment; ground-floor retail space is underutilized; and the upper stories for most buildings remain vacant. One serious risk is that these buildings could eventually fall into disrepair and would no longer be salvageable.

Population growth has become stagnant. The sales tax base is not growing. Bold initiatives from education to redevelopment, have received tepid support. Further, many of the greatest assets of the community are increasingly in danger of decline, including the historic and architectural significance of buildings, business base, hotels, and even retail trade.

Economic developers value the vibrancy of an urban core because a healthy downtown makes a city more competitive in the pursuit of new business. Downtown is seen as a reflection of whether a community values investment, and in the competition for talent, a community that offers quality of life, a suitable living environment and strong sense of place retains workers that makes business successful.

In its current state, downtown is one of the lowest income areas of Hot Springs, with four (4) adjacent low- to moderate-income block groups of residential and commercial mixed-use. Improving infrastructure to create suitable living environments, and encourage business and job growth is an important element in the creation and expansion of businesses, and the success of workforce education and redevelopment efforts.

Economic Development Market Analysis

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Business Activity

Business by Sector Number of Number of Jobs Share of Workers Share of Jobs Jobs less workers Workers % % % Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas Extraction 110 91 1 0 -1 Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations 2,690 5,558 24 25 1 Construction 567 683 5 3 -2 Education and Health Care Services 2,713 6,251 24 28 4 Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 611 1,070 5 5 0 Information 238 358 2 2 0 Manufacturing 854 741 7 3 -4 Other Services 380 688 3 3 0 Professional, Scientific, Management Services 698 1,318 6 6 0 Public Administration 54 56 0 0 0 Retail Trade 1,710 4,282 15 19 4 Transportation and Warehousing 308 215 3 1 -2 Wholesale Trade 496 827 4 4 0 Total 11,429 22,138 ------Table 40 - Business Activity Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS (Workers), 2010 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (Jobs)

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Labor Force

Total Population in the Civilian Labor Force 15,963 Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 14,163 Unemployment Rate 11.28 Unemployment Rate for Ages 16-24 26.38 Unemployment Rate for Ages 25-65 7.30 Table 41 - Labor Force Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Occupations by Sector Number of People

Management, business and financial 2,428 Farming, fisheries and forestry occupations 730 Service 1,775 Sales and office 2,561 Construction, extraction, maintenance and repair 1,347 Production, transportation and material moving 853 Table 42 – Occupations by Sector Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Travel Time

Travel Time Number Percentage < 30 Minutes 11,372 84% 30-59 Minutes 1,571 12% 60 or More Minutes 634 5% Total 13,577 100% Table 43 - Travel Time Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Education:

Educational Attainment by Employment Status (Population 16 and Older)

Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force Less than high school graduate 1,243 347 1,456 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 3,366 460 1,434 Some college or Associate's degree 4,212 321 1,296

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Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force Bachelor's degree or higher 2,567 147 627 Table 44 - Educational Attainment by Employment Status Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Educational Attainment by Age

Age 18–24 yrs 25–34 yrs 35–44 yrs 45–65 yrs 65+ yrs Less than 9th grade 195 322 289 395 734 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 795 614 607 819 1,161 High school graduate, GED, or alternative 904 1,273 1,420 2,567 2,668 Some college, no degree 973 957 1,118 2,256 1,412 Associate's degree 214 297 426 775 266 Bachelor's degree 146 425 429 1,358 755 Graduate or professional degree 11 163 249 717 620 Table 45 - Educational Attainment by Age Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Educational Attainment – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months

Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Less than high school graduate 15,757 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 17,276 Some college or Associate's degree 22,711 Bachelor's degree 34,502 Graduate or professional degree 58,953 Table 46 – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Data Source: 2006-2010 ACS

Based on the Business Activity table above, what are the major employment sectors within your jurisdiction?

As a retirement community and tourist destination Hot Springs has strong educational, health, arts, entertainment, hotel, food-service and recreation jobs, followed by retail trade. An increasing Aerospace manufacturing and repair industry is beginning to emerge due to educational investments and business relocation/expansion efforts.

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Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community:

Low- to moderate-income employees in retail, arts, entertainment and related tourism-based professions, and construction trades often work part time without benefits, and are subject to cyclical unemployment due to seasonal workload changes. Predictable, full-time, long term / non-seasonal job opportunities for low- to moderate-income residents is a clear need.

Major commercial corridors in the core low- to moderate-income gateways of Hot Springs have aged, contain many underutilized, empty, and blighted commercial buildings most of which are in suitable condition to be rehabilitated. The Hot Springs CDBG Citizen Survey revealed that infrastructure improvements to encourage economic and job growth was a high priority amongst residents. Consultations, public meetings and public hearings reinforced this finding. Increased municipal water and wastewater capacity, new paving, additional parking, accessible sidewalks, and traffic flow improvements to revitalize these corridors and attract small and medium sized business investments to rehabilitate historic buildings and commercial spaces is greatly needed.

The Greater Hot Spring Economic Development strategic analysis of target industries recommendations were based on available workforce, industrial sites, incentives and on conversations with the region's business leaders to better understand potential opportunities and challenges not necessarily identifiable through data sources alone. Based on their analysis the following infrastructure needs for business growth were identified: Restoration and ongoing maintenance of historic structures including accessibility upgrades, small and medium sized modern class A office spaces, reliable electricity, improved municipal water & wastewater capacity, highway and rail infrastructure.

Describe any major changes that may have an economic impact, such as planned local or regional public or private sector investments or initiatives that have affected or may affect job and business growth opportunities during the planning period. Describe any needs for workforce development, business support or infrastructure these changes may create.

The Arkansas State Department of Transportation has announced plans for roadway improvements in 2016 through two (2) low- to moderate-income areas with blighted commercial corridors including Park Avenue and Albert Pike. In addition, adjacent arterial districts such as downtown, Whittington and Hobson would benefit from these projects. By improving roads, slowing traffic, and creating complete streets suitable for driving, walking and biking, high traffic through-corridors will be revitalized as unique and attractive points of interest to business investors, residents and visitors.

The Greater Hot Springs Area Chamber of Commerce strategic economic development plan includes goals and initiatives to revitalize the downtown (LMI) Hot Springs district; review and revise codes, zoning and other policies that may inhibit positive economic growth and create incentives to encourage investment and development; creating linkages between current downtown and future destinations in Hot Springs; Establish an innovation and start-up district; Adaptively re-use vacant space/lots in arterials along the major corridors for business and housing purposes. Other plans include establishing a Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 115 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

business park to foster growth amongst innovative companies; Retain and expand businesses; Continue the Quality of Place by encouraging expansion of arts, recreation, and leisure activities in the area.

The Chamber of Commerce strategic economic development plan includes long term strategies to attract technical professionals and entrepreneurs to the area, as well as create a higher education institution to support businesses.

How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment opportunities in the jurisdiction?

The largest block of Hot Springs residents in the workforce have some college or an Associates degree (36%), followed by high school graduates (30%), Bachelor or higher degrees (21%) and those without a high school or equivalent diploma (13%). This represents a positive shift since 2000 when high school graduates comprised 34% of the workforce and only 17% held Bachelor or higher degrees compared to the national average of 24%.

The workforce in arts, entertainment, hotel, food-service, recreation and retail meet demands. Entry and mid-level healthcare and education opportunities are also served by the local workforce, however higher level healthcare jobs often require recruitment efforts from outside of the jurisdiction as do knowledge-based workers in professional, IT, scientific, public service and management.

Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce Investment Boards, community colleges and other organizations. Describe how these efforts will support the jurisdiction's Consolidated Plan.

The two (2) primary agencies currently responsible for employment and job training in the area are at the county level.

The National Park Community College Workforce Development team works closely with area businesses in manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, banking, and many other sectors to respond to workforce training needs quickly and cost-effective. Programs range from Arkansas Career Readiness Certification; Existing Workforce Training Program (EWTP), an Arkansas Economic Development Commission program to deliver customized, industry-specific training to upgrade the skills and knowledge of a company's current workforce through 50:50 grant matching to make training affordable for qualifying businesses, and increase the capacity of state-supported educational institutions; Customized training designed to enhance business performance; Professional development including management, computer skills, leadership, team building, customer service, banking, etc.; Advanced IT for manufacturing such as PLCs, process controls, instrumentation and technical foundations; Industrial and Aerospace manufacturing and repair courses to prepare entry-level students for careers in area industries.

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The Arkansas Workforce Reinvestment Board administers State and Federal funds available through the Workforce Investment Act and coordinates a One-Stop Career Center in Hot Springs offering a wealth of training, information and assistance for businesses and job seekers. Programs are specialized to meet the needs of local job seekers and employers including Career Readiness Certification, Governor's Dislocated Workers Task Force, Mature Workers Initiative, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Unemployment Services, and Veteran Services including the Arkansas Veterans Education & Training Partnership.

The agencies responsible for education and training of area workforce are a key component in the success of the business and job growth economic components of this Consolidated Plan. Hot Springs agencies are in close communication with businesses and the Chamber of Commerce to respond to emerging and immediate needs, which will support Consolidated Plan efforts to improve infrastructure to create business and job growth.

In November 2013, Henderson State University announced plans to open a satellite location in downtown Hot Springs offering bachelor degree education classes. No further details were available at the time of Consolidated Plan submission, however it is expected that additional higher education degress and coursework will provide great benefit to the residents and businesses of Hot Springs.

Does your jurisdiction participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)?

Yes

If so, what economic development initiatives are you undertaking that may be coordinated with the Consolidated Plan? If not, describe other local/regional plans or initiatives that impact economic growth.

This Community Development Block Grant 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan recommendation to invest in municipal infrastructure improvements to encourage economic development and job growth directly align with the Greater Hot Springs Economic Development Strategic Plan, and complement West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District economic development small business loans and support programs.

The Chamber of Commerce Greater Hot Springs Economic Development Strategic Plan recognizes downtown Hot Springs as the catalyst for economic vitality in the city and region as their first goal. Through most of its history, downtown has been a major destination for tourism and economic activity in Hot Springs, but has lost much of its luster as it has aged. Upper stories of occupied historic structures remain vacant and in need of investment, which includes municipal water improvements to meet fire protection sprinkler system requirements for both business and housing occupancy. The second goal of the Economic Development Strategic Plan is to attract and expand businesses, which may include the development of a business park requiring municipal infrastructure

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investments, and/or municipal utilities improvements for existing businesses expanding to additional floors or buildings.

The West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District provides SBA 504 small business loans up to 40% of the financing for commercial real estate purchase, new construction, and equipment with entrepreneurs paying as little as 10% down. In close coordination with WCAPDD, Community Development Block Grant funding for municipal infrastructure improvements to water and wastewater capacity, qualifying small business owners may be attracted to low- to moderate-income areas with suitable facilities and high traffic patterns.

Discussion

The City's strategy is to invest in municipal infrastructure improvements, such as increased water and sewer capacity to meet code, to encourage business and job growth and revitalization of existing underutilized and vacant buildings in low- to moderate-income areas. This will create no less than 1 full- time, long term job for low- to moderate-income residents for each $10,000 in municipal infrastructure improvements. Promoting new or expanding businesses through municipal infrastructure improvements must be targeted as qualifying opportunities arise in order to respond to the immediate needs of small businesses. By investing in municipal infrastructure jobs will be created, good and services become available, blight is reduced as vacant or underutilized buildings are rehabilitated, sprawl is prevented, and low- to moderate-income neighborhoods are revitalized.

Combined with the Chamber of Commerce strategy, the West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District small business loans and workforce training initiatives, the Consolidated Plan complements the services small and medium sized businesses need.

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MA-50 Needs and Market Analysis Discussion Are there areas where households with multiple housing problems are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration")

Substandard housing as described by the State of Arkansas and Hot Springs as not meeting code requirements, and households with housing problems as defined by HUD as lacking complete kitchen or plumbing, may be found in any aged, inner-city neighborhoods, particularly low- to moderate-income, but not at a concentrated level. According to the HUD Location Affordability Index and the H+T Index, owner-occupied severe cost burdens are more prevalent, but not concentrated, in higher-income neighborhoods such as Quapaw/Prospect and East Gate.

Are there any areas in the jurisdiction where racial or ethnic minorities or low-income families are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration")

Racial and ethnic minorities are, for the most part, included in most neighborhoods. However, there are two (2) locations where a four (4) or more city block concentration of 51% or more minority population has been identified:

 Valley Street to Illinois Street, and Estelle Street to Hudgins Circle. This area comprises a portion of the low- to moderate-income block groups 050510116004 and 050510115001, and the AMI or above block group of 050510115002.  Cedar Street to Sabie Street, and Daley Terrace to Pine Street. This area comprises a portion of the low- to moderate-income block group 050510108001.

Low- to moderate-income areas, defined as block groups with median income household income at 80% or less than HUD AMI limits, have been identified as:

1. The Park Avenue Area, which includes block group 050510107003, and a portion of 050510108001 2. The Whittington Valley Area, which includes block group 050510108002, and a portion of 050510108001 3. The Downtown Area block group 050510115001 4. The greater Gateway/Pleasant Street Historic District block group 050510116004 5. The greater Hobson area of block groups 050510108003 and 050510114002 6. The east Albert Pike area of block group 050510109004 7. The Forest Hills Neighborhood, a portion of block group 050510117001

What are the characteristics of the market in these areas/neighborhoods?

These well-established, older, inner-city, historic (Downtown, Gateway and Whittington) neighborhoods lack adequate infrastructure such as sidewalks, curbs and gutters, parks and

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accessibility; contain concentrations of rental units of 50% or more (except Forest Hills); have a higher percentage of vacant homes and/or vacant lots; and while zoned mixed-use commercial structures are vacant and/or underutilized and deteriorating (except Forest Hills which is residential only).

Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods?

There are many community assets in each of the areas/neighborhoods identified.

The Park Avenue Area is the prime travel corridor from the North into the City, boasting a rich history, an array of utilized and vacant businesses and hotel structures of architectural and historic importance, elderly and disabled assisted housing, intra-city bus line accessible, Desoto City Park, and several non-profits that provide needed services in the community.

The Whittington Valley Area is primarily a bedroom community with limited business, adjacent to the downtown and Park Avenue commercial corridors and surrounded by Hot Springs National Park. Assets include Historic designation, the Arkansas School of Math, Science and the Arts, art galleries and cooperatives, accessible on the intra-city bus line, three (3) Habitat for Humanity Villages, Whittington Valley City Park, the National Park and related tourist interests.

Downtown Hot Springs is the only city located inside of a National Park. Drawing on the park as a destination, downtown has a rich and vibrant history, commercial and residential structures of historic, architectural and cultural importance, many thriving businesses though buildings are underutilized, is the primary corridor for inner-city resident and tourist transit, is walkable and part of the intra-city bus line, accessible to those living in higher-density multi-unit housing, and revered by residents.

The greater Gateway/Pleasant Street Historic District appears on the National Historic Registry, and is highly respected in the community and statewide for its African American historic and cultural significance. Adjacent to the Hot Springs Convention Center, Downtown and major east and south travel corridors, assets include houses of historic and architectural value, the Historic Baptist Hotel, Clinton Cultural Campus, Historic Farmers' Market, Hot Springs Depot hub for intra and Greyhound bus services, and the Greenway Trail for walking and biking.

The greater Hobson area is mixed-use residential and commercial adjacent to north and west high trafficked corridors. There are many usable vacant commercial structures suitable for rehabilitation. It is also accessible via the intra-city bus line.

The east Albert Pike area, extending west from the greater Hobson area, is also zoned mixed-use residential/commercial. Assets include high traffic, intra-city bus line access, successful operating businesses, and usable vacant commercial structures suitable for rehabilitation.

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The Forest Hills Neighborhood is situated between Oaklawn Racetrack, area employer and destination, and the Hot Springs Greenway Trail. A strictly residential neighborhood, assets include close proximity to trails and Hollywood Park.

Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas?

Each of these areas offers strategic opportunity to increase job growth and the availability of neighborhood-accessible goods and services through economic development activities and improved infrastructure to create suitable neighborhoods. The Consolidated Plan includes combined efforts of economic development and residential infrastructure improvements to revitalize these neighborhoods while preserving unique and historic characteristics, increasing home-ownership and reducing unoccupied units in LMI areas where housing remains affordable, and reducing blight such as vacant lots by supporting affordable infill housing. Through these actions to improve infrastructure, private and public investment in these areas will be stimulated.

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Strategic Plan

SP-05 Overview Strategic Plan Overview

The City of Hot Springs has prepared the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan as a requirement to receive federal Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program funds. It is a strategic plan for addressing low- and moderate-income housing, community and economic development needs. The Consolidated Plan provides a five-year road map that explains how and why Federal funding for housing, community and economic development activities is expected to be used.

The City of Hot Springs has identified the following priorities for the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan:

Priority 1: Create suitable living environments and promote decent, affordable housing initiatives

An effort must be made to reverse blight trends in urban, aging, historic neighborhoods where population has declined, but affordable housing remains available, and safety, livability and accessibility can be improved for low- to moderate-income and special-needs residents. By decreasing blight through the reduction of unsightly property and development of empty lots, while improving public infrastructure such as sidewalks, parks, drainage and green space low- to moderate-income neighborhoods will be reinvigorated, livable and reinvested. City resources will be leveraged to minimize the CDBG funds needed to plan, assess, estimate, manage, implement and maintain projects. Private and public investments will be stimulated to further CDBG funding efforts.

Priority 2: Encourage Business / Job Growth through targeted infrastructure improvements

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports 86% of new jobs in the current economy are created by new or expanding small to medium sized businesses already present in the local community. The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Strategic Economic Development Plan concludes that a serious risk to economic development is the continued deterioration of vacant, underutilized, historic, commercial structures in core, high traffic commercial corridors, which directly involve two (2) low- to moderate- income block groups (Downtown and Park Avenue), and an additional four (4) adjacent, mixed-use commercial/residential, arterial low- to moderate-income neighborhoods (Gateway, Whittington, Hobson and Albert Pike). The City of Hot Springs and State of Arkansas code requires adequate fire protection, municipal water and sewer capacity in order to obtain certificate of occupancy. The requirements to improve municipal water and sewer capacity to meet State and Local code present an undue cost burden on small and medium businesses already investing in existing building improvements and historic preservation.

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Priority 3: Provide assistance, support and resources to promote fair housing, expand neighborhood revitalization, encourage business/job growth, and strengthen Continuum of Care service efforts.

To ensure the likelihood of success of CDBG funded fair housing, neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing and economic development infrastructure improvements, and strengthen services provided to the most at-risk by the Continuum of Care, City resources are committed to assisting in assessing needs, facilitating collaboration, inspiring leadership and planning skills, and providing support to develop shared visions, achievable plans, and coordination amongst agencies, groups and organizations.

This section describes the strategies, geographic areas, high and low priorities, goals and monitoring of this Consolidated Plan.

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SP-10 Geographic Priorities – 91.215 (a)(1) Geographic Area

1 Area Name: Downtown Area Type: Local Target area Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Comprehensive Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries Block group 050510115001. for this target area. Include specific housing and Downtown Hot Springs is the only city located inside of a commercial characteristics of this National Park. Drawing on the park as a destination, target area. downtown has a rich and vibrant history, commercial and residential structures of historic, architectural and cultural importance, many thriving businesses though buildings are underutilized or vacant and in need of rehabilitation. It is the primary corridor for inner-city resident and tourist transit, is walkable and part of the intra-city bus line, accessible to those living in higher- density multi-unit housing, and revered by residents. How did your consultation and citizen Consultations with business and civic leaders, the participation process help you to Chamber of Commerce and City leadership identified this identify this neighborhood as a target area as the key to economic development. During public area? meetings, citizens agreed that this area is of importance to the vitality of the City as a whole. Identify the needs in this target area. Water and sewer infrastructure improvements to meet code requirements for housing and commercial use. What are the opportunities for Rehabilitation and utilization of vacant and underutilized improvement in this target area? buildings will provide business and housing opportunities. Are there barriers to improvement in Building owner willingness to invest in non-municipal this target area? infrastructure improvements to increase occupancy in these buildings is a concern. 2 Area Name: East Albert Pike Area Area Type: Local Target area

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Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Comprehensive Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries Block group 050510109004 for this target area. Include specific housing and This is a mixed-use residential/commercial area along a commercial characteristics of this high-trafficked commercial corridor. Neighborhoods lack target area. or require repairs to infrastructure, and accessibility is poor. Commercial buildings are underutilized or vacant. How did your consultation and citizen Citizens and City leadership identified this area as in need participation process help you to of improvements, specifically for accessibility. identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. Sidewalk improvements are the highest priority to increase accessibility. Reducing blight and increasing commercial building occupancy are also needed. What are the opportunities for By improving resident accessibility and stimulating improvement in this target area? business/job growth in the area it can be revitalized. Are there barriers to improvement in No barriers were identified. this target area? 3 Area Name: Forest Hill Neighborhood Area Type: Local Target area Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Other Other Revital Description: Infrastructure Identify the neighborhood boundaries The residential portion of block group 050510117001, for this target area. from Hollywood Avenue to Chelsea Street, and Sellers Street to Bayard.

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Include specific housing and A strictly residential neighborhood of homes of varying commercial characteristics of this age, primarily built before 1980, and a 2012 Habitat for target area. Humanity Village. How did your consultation and citizen Citizen participation and City staff supported this participation process help you to neighborhood as a target area. identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. Forest Hills was built without sidewalks, and has drainage issues. What are the opportunities for In close proximity to the Hot Springs Greenway Trail, improvement in this target area? which connects to downtown, and Hollywood Park playground, the installation of sidewalks will connect this neighborhood of elderly and young families to services throughout Hot Springs. The improvement of drainage in the area is necessary to maintain a suitable living environment. Are there barriers to improvement in Limited funding to complete infrastructure improvements this target area? is a challenge. Efforts are being made to coordinate multiple funding sources. 4 Area Name: Greater Gateway Neighborhood Area Type: Local Target area Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Comprehensive Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries Block group 050510116004 for this target area.

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Include specific housing and The area is mixed-use commercial/residential, and commercial characteristics of this includes the Hot Springs Area Convention Center, Webb target area. Community Center, Transportation Depot hub for intra- city and Greyhound bus services, Hot Springs Greenway, Farmers' Market, and is adjacent to high trafficked business corridors. Housing includes the Pleasant Street historic homes, the historic Baptist Hotel (apartments), and non-historic homes of varying age and condition, primarily built before 1975. How did your consultation and citizen Pleasant Street, the center of this greater Gateway participation process help you to neighborhood, has been part of CDBG funded identify this neighborhood as a target improvements for ten years. Through consultations and area? public meetings it was determined that the success of Pleasant Street revitalization required a broader utilization of area assets. Identify the needs in this target area. Infill housing to occupy vacant lots and increase homeownership, sidewalks to improve accessibility, and business/job growth in vacant/underutilized buildings. What are the opportunities for By encouraging business and new home building, blight improvement in this target area? will be reduced. Sidewalks are needed to facilitate mobility of many elderly residents to reach area services and bus transportation. Are there barriers to improvement in No barriers were identified. this target area? 5 Area Name: Greater Hobson Area Area Type: Local Target area Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Comprehensive Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries Block groups 050510108003 and 050510114002 for this target area.

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Include specific housing and This area is characterized by dense housing in commercial characteristics of this neighborhoods, homes rezoned and utilized for target area. commercial use, and through traffic commercial corridors on its boundaries. Commercial structures are in varying states of disrepair and many are vacant. Housing is aged and lack infrastructure. How did your consultation and citizen Many residents expressed a strong desire to improve this participation process help you to area due to its potential and lower income resident identify this neighborhood as a target needs. area? Identify the needs in this target area. This area lacks suitable sidewalks, does not have a public park, and requires infrastructure improvements to encourage business and job growth. What are the opportunities for By investing in residential and business infrastructure improvement in this target area? improvements in this area a suitable living environment can be created, and through traffic will be drawn to a once thriving business district as a revitalized point of interest in the City. Are there barriers to improvement in Efforts will be made to coordinate public involvement in this target area? this area as they currently lack a neighborhood association. 6 Area Name: Whittington Valley Area Area Type: Local Target area Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Comprehensive Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries Block group 050510108002, and the West and Southern for this target area. portions of 050510108001 Include specific housing and Whittington Valley is primarily a residential, bedroom commercial characteristics of this community with a few arts and tourism related small target area. businesses. Most homes are historic, many of which were constructed before 1960, but the area also includes three (3) Habitat for Humanity Villages built since 2005.

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How did your consultation and citizen Whittington Valley has been a recipient of CDBG funded participation process help you to infrastructure and park improvements for several identify this neighborhood as a target years. Continued support of neighborhood revitalization area? efforts was supported by citizens and through consultations. Identify the needs in this target area. Continued efforts to revitalize Whittington City Park to meet the needs of young families, and sidewalks improvements to increase elderly and disabled mobility are needed in this area. Drainage improvements have also been identified as a medium priority. What are the opportunities for Prior CDBG infrastructure improvements have been improvement in this target area? anecdotally linked to increased home-ownership, and public and private investments to revitalize the area. By continuing to create a suitable living environment, opportunities for home-ownership in this neighborhood where homes remain affordable and are in close proximity to jobs and businesses, low- to moderate- income families will benefit. Are there barriers to improvement in To complete all revitalization projects identified by the this target area? Whittington Valley Neighborhood Association Neighborhood Plan requires multiple sources of funding. 7 Area Name: Park Avenue Area Area Type: Local Target area Other Target Area Description: HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Comprehensive Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries Block group 050510107003, and the East and for this target area. North portions of 050510108001 Include specific housing and The area is characterized by an aging, blighted commercial characteristics of this commercial corridor through the center, and residential target area. neighborhoods with homes built primarily before 1970 to the east and west. Included is Garland Towers, an elderly apartment complex, apartment housing for the disabled, and several non-profit organizations.

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How did your consultation and citizen There was strong citizen support to address the needs of participation process help you to this neighborhood as the northern gateway into Hot identify this neighborhood as a target Springs. Park Avenue has received housing rehabilitation area? funding through CDBG for over 5 years, and it is believed that continued investment directed toward infrastructure will expand those efforts to create a suitable living environment where housing remains affordable. Identify the needs in this target area. Sidewalk improvements to increase accessibility is the highest priority since the neighborhood serves many disabled and elderly residents. Drainage improvements in this area sometimes prone to flooding are required. Municipal infrastructure improvements to encourage business and job growth in vacant and underutilized commercial structures is needed. Parks and green space improvements, and infill housing on vacant lots is needed. What are the opportunities for The Arkansas Department of Transportation plans a major improvement in this target area? repaving of the commercial corridor in 2016. Infrastructure improvements in this area will complement those efforts, making the area a desirable place to live and work. Are there barriers to improvement in Several large, vacant commercial structures beyond repair this target area? are located in this area. They may contain environmental hazards. The City is applying for Brownfield funds to assess and take remediation actions to eliminate this blight. Table 47 - Geographic Priority Areas

General Allocation Priorities

Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdiction (or within the EMSA for HOPWA)

As determined by the Community Development Advisory Committee, with strong citizen input during a public meeting discussing investment allocation, neighborhoods will coordinate with City Staff and Community Development Block Grant Consultant to prepare applications each fiscal year. The Community Development Advisory Committee and City Board of Directors will review these application giving strongest consideration to projects demonstrating support of national HUD objectives, City of Hot Springs objectives, high likelihood of success, broad community involvement, do the most good for the most people particularly those with special needs, leverage other sources of funding with limited CDBG

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funds, contain plans to expand and continue projects without future CDBG funding, and exhibit readiness to begin the project on or before the fiscal year funding is received.

A discretionary fund to target infrastructure improvements to meet neighborhood, business and job growth needs as they arise has been recommended. Small economic development opportunities are often not able to be planned nine months in advance, between application and funding receipt. By allocating a discretionary fund, small business owners can apply for the municipal water and sewer infrastructure improvements required to meet code during the time they are investing in building rehabilitation, ensuring municipal improvements do not delay the opening of new businesses and job creation efforts.

Likewise, five (5) of the seven (7) targeted neighborhoods have had limited exposure to Community Development Block Grant programs in the past, and have requested continued City staff assistance to assess needs and assets, develop a vision, goals and project details, form a consensus amongst residents, and define available resources that are needed to create successful CDBG and other funding applications. By providing a discretionary and dedicated City staff support, it is believed that neighborhoods will create plans that target infrastructure opportunities that make the best use of available funding, and that these smaller discretionary funded projects inspire continued neighborhood committment to revitalization including public and private investments.

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SP-25 Priority Needs - 91.215(a)(2) Priority Needs

1 Priority Need Public Improvements and Infrastructure Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Elderly Persons with Physical Disabilities Non-housing Community Development Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Whittington Valley Area Affected Downtown Greater Gateway Neighborhood Forest Hill Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area East Albert Pike Area Associated Neighborhood Revitalization & Affordable Housing Goals Planning & Administration Description The highest priority reflects the City's need to replace/upgrade deteriorating infrastructure in low income areas, especially in older neighborhoods which fall within the designated target areas. The infrastructure category includes all public improvements that support existing or future community development benefitting an entire area or a particular site, such as sidewalks, roads, curbs, gutters, water and sewer systems, street lighting, etc. The City uses all resources at its disposal to support existing infrastructure, however in older inner-city neighborhoods demand for new and/or improved infrastructure exceeds available general- funding. With State and Federal governments reducing funds for infrastructure improvements, future community development in Hot Springs increasingly depends on the efficient use of all resources to maintain infrastructure. The City will supplement its general-funded community improvements with CDBG funds to ensure infrastructure meets the needs of its citizens.

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Basis for Residents ranked sidewalks (#5) and street paving improvements (#2) as high Relative priorities; Drainage improvements, street lighting, and water and sewer Priority improvements were rated as medium. Consultations with City departments and elected leadership emphasized infrastructure improvements as the highest priority and greatest need in target areas and will provide City staff resources to assist in planning, estimating, overseeing and maintaining improvements to maximize CDBG allocations. Public hearings and consultations with civic and business leaders, service providers and neighborhood associations echoed the serious need for infrastructure funding. As a result, a significant portion of CDBG funding will be allocated to infrastructure repairs and upgrades in targeted areas. A minimum of 45% of fiscal year CDBG funding will be allocated to Public Infrastructure and Improvements, and/or Public Facilities related to neighborhood parks and green spaces in targeted areas identified in this Consolidated Plan in each Annual Action Plan, with the further provision that any unspent funds at the end of a fiscal year be reallocated to additional Public Infrastructure and Improvements and/or Public Facilities associated with targeted area neighborhood revitalization. 2 Priority Need Public Facilities Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Large Families Families with Children Non-housing Community Development Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Whittington Valley Area Affected Downtown Greater Gateway Neighborhood Forest Hill Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area East Albert Pike Area Associated Neighborhood Revitalization & Affordable Housing Goals Planning & Administration

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Description A priority of this Consolidated Plan is to create viable urban communities by developing a suitable living environment, which includes community (public) facilities. Parks and recreational facilities serve an important role in a community. They provide opportunities for resident interaction, and improve the overall aesthetic of a neighborhood. There is a great need to develop new, and improve existing, City parks and shared green spaces in target areas. The Hobson and East Albert Pike target areas lack parks, and the parks in the remaining target areas are in need of repair and equipment improvements to increase accessibility, and better meet the needs of families and children in LMI neighborhoods. The use of funds to construct, expand and renovate public service facilities contributes a great deal to the quality of life in these households. By making it possible for communities to provide recreational services to their residents, the City of Hot Springs program activities are an important tool for enhancing the livability of the City's lower income households and communities. Healthcare facilities, fire stations and equipment, youth and senior centers, libraries, childcare and community centers, and other public facilities were ranked lower in the Citizen Survey, and not uncovered as a strong need during consultations. Basis for The citizen survey ranked green spaces/community gardens as the #4 priority, and Relative park improvements and creation as the #10 priority. In combination, abandoned Priority lot development was ranked #7. Resident comments during public hearings reinforced public facilities such as city parks, pocket parks, community gardens and green spaces as top priorities in target areas. City departments and leadership support public facilities, and commit City resources to assist in planning, estimating, implementing and maintaining improvements to maximize CDBG allocations. CDBG funds will be used to acquire land, build or improve playgrounds or buildings used primarily for recreation, and develop open spaces that will serve low- to moderate-income areas. A minimum of 45% of fiscal year CDBG funding will be allocated to Public Facilities related to neighborhood parks and green spaces and/or Public Infrastructure and Improvements in targeted areas identified in this Consolidated Plan in each Annual Action Plan, with the further provision that any unspent funds at the end of a fiscal year be reallocated to additional Public Facilities and/or Public Infrastructure and Improvements associated with targeted area neighborhood revitalization. 3 Priority Need Public Services Name Priority Level High

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Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Families with Children Public Housing Residents Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Whittington Valley Area Affected Downtown Greater Gateway Neighborhood Forest Hill Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area East Albert Pike Area Associated Neighborhood Revitalization & Affordable Housing Goals Fair Housing Planning & Administration

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Description Public services contribute to the well-being of individuals, families and neighborhoods. CDBG regulations allow the use of grant funds for a wide range of public service activities, including, but not limited to: Employment services (e.g. job training); Crime prevention and public safety; Transportation services; Health services; Substance abuse services (e.g. counseling and treatment); Fair housing activities; Education programs; Energy conservation; Services for senior citizens; Services for homeless persons; Down payment assistance; and recreational services. Two (2) Public Service needs have been identified: 1. Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice study as a program requirement, and any activities to address barriers identified in the study 2. Homeownership Education and down payment assistance Fair Housing Choice is the ability of persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, of similar income levels to have available to them the same housing choices. The City must pledge to affirmatively further fair housing, and take appropriate actions to overcome the effects of the impediments to fair housing choice that may be identified in an analysis. Housing choice is impeded when actions, omissions, or decisions are taken that restrict a person's choice of housing because of his/her characteristics. It is also impeded when certain residential dwellings are not made available to a person because of his/her characteristics, or failure to provide housing for any protected class mentioned. The Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing study will evaluate the nature and extent of housing segregation and discrimination. It will serve as a framework for the City's fair housing planning as part of its Consolidated Plan implementation. During the development of a five-year Analysis of Impediments (AI), the City or its contracted third-party provider will consult fair housing organizations, state and local governments, advocacy groups for special needs households, affordable housing providers, banks and other financial institutions, and educational institutions to solicit their input on fair housing issues in the City. A variety of mechanisms may be utilized to solicit input from these persons, providers, or agencies. These include telephone or personal interviews, mail surveys, and consultation workshops. The Draft AI will be made available for public review for a 30-day period. Written comments will be accepted during the 30-day public review. A summary of the comments and views, and City responses will be attached to the AI. The City will conduct one (1) public hearing to accept public input on fair housing issues during the development stage of the Draft AI. The City Board will also conduct one (1) public hearing to accept comments on the Draft AI. For over 6 (six) years, the City has been providing homeownership education and Consolidated Plan counseling services throughHOT SPRINGS non-profit community development organizations 136 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp.who 07/31/2015) coordinate down-payment and closing cost financial assistance for qualified low- to moderate-income home buyers through the Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration.

Basis for Consolidated Plan requirements include completing and identifying an Analysis of Relative Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. As part of a mandate to affirmatively further Priority fair housing, Hot Springs must take appropriate actions to overcome the effects of the identified impediments to fair housing choice. An Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study is a HUD program requirement that must be completed every five (5) years. The last Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study was completed in 2009. To remain in compliance with governmental regulations, a new AI must be completed in 2014. The AI is a one (1) Fiscal Year expenditure; Consultant fees are estimated to be $25,000 or less. Assessing and addressing regulatory barriers to affordable housing as identified in the AI will be ongoing activities included in Annual Action Plans, and actions taken are reported yearly as part of the annual performance and evaluation report (CAPER). The first time homeowner education programs have been provided by qualified non-profit sub-recipients who coordinate down-payment and closing- cost assistance through the Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration. This program has assisted over sixty (60) individuals and families with home-ownership in Fiscal Year 2013, and is an important program to increase homeownership and reduce cost and severe cost burdens associated with rental units for low- to moderate-income residents identified as part of the Needs Analysis of this Consolidated Plan. Other public services were identified as low or medium priorities during Citizen Surveys, consultations and public hearings. The total amount of CDBG funds obligated for public services activities must not exceed 15% of the annual grant allocation.

4 Priority Need Economic Development Name Priority Level High

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Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Individuals Families with Children veterans Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Non-housing Community Development Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Whittington Valley Area Affected Downtown Greater Gateway Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area East Albert Pike Area Associated Neighborhood Revitalization & Affordable Housing Goals Economic Development Infrastructure Improvements Planning & Administration

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Description As a retirement community and tourist destination Hot Springs has strong educational, health, arts, entertainment, hotel, food-service, and retail trade job markets. The workforce in arts, entertainment, hotel, food-service, recreation and retail meet employment demands. Entry and mid-level healthcare and education opportunities are also served by the local workforce, however higher level healthcare jobs often require recruitment efforts from outside of the jurisdiction as do knowledge-based workers in professional, IT, scientific, public service and management. Low- to moderate-income employees in retail, arts, entertainment and related tourism-based professions, and construction trades often work part time without benefits, and are subject to cyclical unemployment due to seasonal workload changes. Predictable, full-time, long term / non-seasonal job opportunities for low- to moderate-income residents is a clear need. Major commercial corridors in the core low- to moderate-income gateways of Hot Springs have aged, contain many underutilized, empty, and blighted commercial buildings most of which are in suitable condition to for rehabilitation. The Hot Springs CDBG Citizen Survey revealed that infrastructure improvements to encourage economic and job growth was a high priority amongst residents. Consultations, public meetings and public hearings reinforced this finding. Increased municipal water and wastewater capacity, new paving, additional parking, accessible sidewalks, and traffic flow improvements to revitalize these corridors and attract small and medium sized business investments to rehabilitate historic buildings and commercial spaces is greatly needed. The Greater Hot Spring Economic Development strategic analysis of target industries recommendations were based on available workforce, industrial sites, incentives and on conversations with the region's business leaders to better understand potential opportunities and challenges not necessarily identifiable through data sources alone. Based on their analysis, municipal infrastructure improvements were identified as a need to encourage business and job growth. The City's strategy is to invest in municipal infrastructure improvements, such as increased water and sewer capacity to meet code, to encourage business and job growth and revitalize existing underutilized and vacant buildings in targeted, commercial areas. Promoting new or expanding businesses through municipal infrastructure improvements must be targeted as qualifying opportunities arise in order to respond to the immediate needs of small businesses. By investing in municipal infrastructure jobs will be created, goods and services become available, blight is reduced as vacant or underutilized buildings are rehabilitated, sprawl is prevented, and low- to moderate-income neighborhoods are revitalized.

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Basis for Infrastructure improvements to encourage business and job growth was ranked as Relative the #3 priority in the Citizen Survey. Resident corroboration during public hearings Priority and agency/provider consultations, as well as goals identified in the Chamber of Commerce economic development strategic plan, and small business loan services provided by the West Central Arkansas Planning & Development District support this priority. Economic development infrastructure investments will be made in low- to moderate-income targeted areas as specified in this Consolidated Plan, where commercial or mixed-use residential and commercial zoning currently exists. By upgrading existing or installing new infrastructure, such as municipal water and sewer, vacant and/or underutilized commercial buildings will become a viable location for new businesses to create full-time, long-term jobs at a rate of no less than one (1) job per $10,000 of municipal infrastructure costs. Businesses benefiting from infrastructure funding under this Consolidated Plan will be encouraged to coordinate recruitment efforts with Consolidated Plan partners to extend outreach to those in public housing, persons with disabilities, single head of household, victims of domestic violence, youth exiting fostercare, individuals/families exiting homelessness, veterans and the elderly. However, no hiring practices will be imposed that violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and/or the American Disabilities Act. No more than 25% of CDBG funds will be allocated in any given Annual Action Plan year toward infrastructure improvements for economic development activities. 5 Priority Need New Housing Units / Acquisition of Existing Units Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities

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Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Downtown Affected Greater Gateway Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area Associated Neighborhood Revitalization & Affordable Housing Goals Planning & Administration Description Based on the analysis of housing data and consultations, a need for new, affordable housing units has been identified, particularly 1- and 2-bedroom units for the elderly, physically disabled, small families and individuals exiting homelessness. This will be accomplished by supporting the efforts of non-profit home building agencies through reduced permitting fees, vacant lot coordination, and limited CDBG funding as available for infrastructure, and land and/or existing unit acquisition. Basis for The priority is based on consultations, citizen survey results (abandoned lot clean- Relative up and development priority #7), public hearings, and the needs and market Priority analyses of this Consolidated Plan. CDBG funds will be allocated to support non-profit home building for reasonable land and existing unit acquisition costs for the purpose of new home building after public review and City Board acceptance of proposed projects that demonstrate a minimum of 1:1 matching funds. Preference will be given to affordable housing projects that meet the needs of the elderly, disabled, small families, and at-risk low- and moderate-income individuals and families, infill housing that utilizes vacant lots and/or reduces vacant building blight, particularly in targeted areas. The City commits staff resources to assist developers in identifying vacant properties, and reduced permitting fees for not-for-profit affordable housing organizations. 6 Priority Need Rental Assistance Name Priority Level Low Population Extremely Low Low Families with Children Elderly Elderly Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Downtown Affected Greater Gateway Neighborhood

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Associated Planning & Administration Goals Description The Hot Springs Housing Authority, funded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development administers rental assistance throughout Garland County helping 658 households through tenant-based rental assistance programs. Persons receiving assistance include those over 62 years of age, persons with disabilities, and low-income households. Spa Area Independent Living (SAILS), funded by grants from the State of Arkansas, operates The Community Housing Project, which provides rental assistance vouchers for approximately 45 accessible homes for the physically disabled for up two (2) years to bridge the gap during waiting periods for programs such as Section 8 Public Housing. Such programs allow income-qualified households to receive rental assistance in a variety of apartments, houses, and other rental dwellings owned by private landlords. Overall, 10% of renters in Hot Springs are spending over half of household income on rent, 60% of which are extremely low income and 36% of which are low- income. 9% of residents are spending over 30% of their income on rental costs. 31% of small families and 17% of elderly are experiencing cost or severe cost rental burdens. Rental assistance programs are important and necessary to offset cost burdens for low income residents to avoid risk of homelessness. Basis for While a need has been identified, given limited resources and low prioritization in Relative the Citizen Survey and consultations, rental assistance has been classified as a low Priority priority. The City will coordinate with Consolidated Plan partners to provide non- financial assistance as needed to support their continued efforts to provide rental assistance programs. 7 Priority Need Housing Rehabilitation Name Priority Level Low Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly Elderly Frail Elderly

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Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Whittington Valley Area Affected Downtown Greater Gateway Neighborhood Forest Hill Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area East Albert Pike Area Associated Planning & Administration Goals Description A large percentage of the Hot Springs housing stock are older homes occupied by low, moderate and middle-income residents in mature and historic neighborhoods. 45% of these homes were built before 1970 and may require major repairs. The City of Hot Springs has provided owner-occupied housing rehabilitation for qualifying low- to moderate-income individuals and families for ten (10) years, and successfully rehabilitated over 100 homes to meet code, most of the repairs were major such as structure, plumbing, electrical, heating and air conditioning, and lead based paint abatement. Minor repairs such as accessibility improvements and roofing were also done. There are currently 110 applicants on the housing rehabilitation waiting list, of which, 55 are estimated to be qualified. Basis for Citizen surveys, consultations, and public hearings ranked housing rehabilitation as Relative a low priority. The needs and market analysis portion of the Consolidated Plan Priority uncovered greater needs to be addressed using the limited funds available. 8 Priority Need Homelessness Outreach Name Priority Level Low Population Chronic Homelessness Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Unaccompanied Youth Geographic Downtown Areas Greater Gateway Neighborhood Affected Associated Planning & Administration Goals

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Description During consultations with service providers a need for greater outreach to homeless and at-risk families with school children, unaccompanied youth, veterans, those exiting healthcare and institutions, and the chronically homeless particularly individuals with mental-illness and/or dually-diagnosed with substance abuse. A centralized information system of available services is needed to assist all agencies in effective, assertive outreach, which is currently being constructed by ProjectHOPE. An inter-agency, interdisciplinary approach involving shelters, healthcare, incarceration, mental-health, foster care, schools/education, food banks/pantries, self-sufficiency and anti-poverty programs, public and LIHTC housing, and other related community services organizations is needed to reach the most at-risk and chronically homeless. Basis for Greater outreach is needed, however given limited funding the City is able Relative to coordinate involvement of Consolidated Plan partner agencies in collaborative Priority inter-agency, interdisciplinary teams to create the central register of services, increase outreach and address homelessness issues in Hot Springs, rather than provide financial assistance. This priority is based on consultations with service providers in the Continuum of Care, citizen survey results, and public hearings. 9 Priority Need Emergency / Transitional Housing for the Homeless Name Priority Level Low Population Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Geographic Downtown Areas Greater Gateway Neighborhood Affected East Albert Pike Area Associated Planning & Administration Goals

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Description Consultation with Hot Springs homeless shelters and service providers indicated that the homeless population was believed to be increasing at the statewide average of 20%. The majority of chronic homeless without shelter were felt to be non-medically controlled mentally-ill lacking insurance/prescription drug treatment, and/or dually-diagnosed with substance-addiction. In both cases, there are no shelters or services to meet the needs of these homeless individuals. A shelter is currently being planned for veterans and their families in the future by an area non-profit provider. The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine the causes and demographics of homelessness, engage discharging institutions in the prevention of homelessness, coordinate and facilitate the expertise of experienced providers as mentors for newer providers to better plan and utilize resources, and work with Consolidated Plan partners to examine ways to ameliorate conditions that create chronic homelessness amongst the mentally- ill. The Consolidated Plan objective to encourage economic development supports the Arkansas Balance of Care strategic plan goal of increasing employment of homeless entering programs by 10%. Basis for Given limited funding the City is able to provide support and coordination rather Relative than financial assistance. This priority is based on consultations with service Priority providers in the Continuum of Care, citizen survey results, and public hearings. 10 Priority Need Rapid Re-Housing Name Priority Level Low Population Extremely Low Chronic Homelessness Mentally Ill veterans Unaccompanied Youth Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Downtown Affected Greater Gateway Neighborhood East Albert Pike Area Associated Planning & Administration Goals

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Description During consultations no threat to the termination of existingRapid Re-Housing programs was uncovered, however the need for expanding services to veterans, unaccompanied youth, chronically homeless and the mentally ill and dually- diagnosed exceeds current funding levels. Continuum of Care providers seek additional funding through ESG, HPRP, state and other sources. Basis for Consultations, citizen survey and public hearings indicated Rapid Re-Housing is a Relative low priority. The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan Priority partners and the Continuum of Care to coordinate and facilitate the expertise of experienced providers as mentors for newer providers to apply for funding and better leverage limited resources. The Consolidated Plan objective to encourage economic development supports the Arkansas Balance of Care strategic plan goal of 10%of persons and/or households not employed at program entrance will obtain employment. 11 Priority Need Homelessness Prevention Name Priority Level Low Population Extremely Low Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Geographic Park Avenue Area Areas Whittington Valley Area Affected Downtown Greater Gateway Neighborhood Forest Hill Neighborhood Greater Hobson Area East Albert Pike Area Associated Planning & Administration Goals

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Description During consultations with service providers the greatest need identified in preventing homelessness was a better understanding of services available to at- risk individuals and families, and familiarity with the organizations providing services such as utility assistance, transportation services, rent/mortgage assistance, food pantries, school meals and supplies, etc. A wide variety of organizations provide services in Hot Springs from non-profits to faith-based organizations to county and state agencies. Increasing awareness and access to services is part of the ProjectHOPE program. Basis for Due to limited resources, and based on the results of consultations, public Relative hearings and citizen survey results, prevention of homelessness is a low Priority priority. The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine the causes and demographics of homelessness, assist in linking data repositories of available services for at-risk individuals, and engage discharging institutions in the prevention of homelessness. Table 48 – Priority Needs Summary

Narrative (Optional)

High priorities were defined by citizens, City Departments, City elected leaders, service providers, civic and business leaders during surveys, consultations and public hearings. While needs exist in categories identified here as low priorities, limited financial resources cannot address all needs. The strategy developed in this Consolidated Plan leverages opportunities and resources to address all needs as best as possible - some financially, others through support and coordination.

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SP-30 Influence of Market Conditions – 91.215 (b) Influence of Market Conditions

Affordable Market Characteristics that will influence Housing Type the use of funds available for housing type Tenant Based This Consolidated Plan does not include funding recommendations for Tenant Rental Assistance Based Rental Assistance. 2006-2010 CHAS estimates that approximately 4,578 (TBRA) low- to moderate-income renter households are experiencing a cost burden. Based on rental cost burdens versus the availability of affordable owner- occupation in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods, the City has chosen to fund first time home buyer education programs leveraging Arkansas State down- payment and closing-cost assistance to move qualified home buyers into homes rather than subsidize rent. Citizen surveys, public comment and consultations did not note TBRA as a high priority need given limited funds and resources. TBRA for Non- This Consolidated Plan does not include funding recommendations for non- Homeless Special homeless special needs Tenant Based Rental Assistance. 2006-2010 CHAS Needs estimates that approximately 4,578 low- to moderate-income renter households are experiencing a cost burden, the Center for Disease Control estimates that 28% of the population between 18 and 64 identifies as having a disability, and the 2010 Census records 21.3% of the population is over 65. Consultations with disabled and LIHTC providers, and the public housing authority anticipated no change in housing voucher availability if federal and state funding remain unchanged. Based on rental cost burdens versus the availability of affordable owner-occupation in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods, the City has chosen to fund first time home buyer education programs leveraging Arkansas State down-payment and closing-cost assistance to move qualified home buyers into homes rather than subsidize rent. Citizen surveys, public comment and consultations did not note TBRA as a high priority need given limited funds and resources.

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Affordable Market Characteristics that will influence Housing Type the use of funds available for housing type New Unit This Consolidated Plan includes funding recommendations for non-profit Production affordable home builder production of new housing units. This decision is based on the 10 year continued decrease in new home building, and need for affordable small family, elderly, integrated disabled, and single person homes identified through the Market Analysis and during consultation with housing and service providers. In addition, citizens strongly supported the development of vacant or abandoned lots as part of the overall neighborhood revitalization strategy during surveys and public hearings. The plan also includes non-financial support such as the identification and coordinated acquisition of City/public held lots for development purposes, reduced permitting fees for non-profit affordable home builders, technical support regarding historic district building codes as applicable, and CDBG applications for land acquisition, infrastructure and demolition costs with 1:2 matching funds. Rehabilitation This Consolidated Plan does not include major or minor housing rehabilitation funding recommendations. The City of Hot Springs has completed over 100 housing rehabilitation projects over the last 10 years. While benefitting homeowners have remained in their homes, the strategy to revitalize neighborhoods, block by block, one rehabilitated home at a time was limited by the number of rental homes present in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods. There are 110 applicants on the home rehabilitation list out of 14,000 households, far less than 1%. Citizen surveys, public comment and consultations did not note housing rehabilitation as a high priority need given limited funds and resources. Acquisition, Given the stability of non-profit housing and LIHTC providers such as the Hot including Springs Public Housing Authority, and limited funds and resources, this preservation Consolidated Plan does not recommend funding for the acquisition of existing units in suitable conditions. This Consolidated Plan does allow for funding of the purchase of vacant or public structures unsuitable for rehabilitation, and the demolition of existing structures for the purpose of new affordable home construction or economic development/job growth. Citizen surveys and public comment ranked the reduction of blighted, underutilized/vacant structures and the redevelopment of vacant properties as high priorities. Table 49 – Influence of Market Conditions

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SP-35 Anticipated Resources - 91.215(a)(4), 91.220(c)(1,2)

Introduction

The City of Hot Springs has been allocated $355,404 in CDBG funds in program year 2014. These funds will be used to fund eligible community development projects in low- to moderate-income areas as detailed in the 2014 Annual Action Plan. Given that available federal funds have historically decreased year over year the City has conservatively estimated a 25% decrease in future plan years covered under this Consolidated Plan. These are estimates only.

Program income is unpredictable and realized only when liens are repaid on properties that have previously benefited from CDBG funding either through the housing rehabilitation program as a home is sold or refinanced before the end of the 10-year forgivable soft loan, or when a demolished structure lien is repaid by the property owner or purchased by a new owner.

Anticipated Resources

Program Source Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Narrative Description of Funds Annual Program Prior Year Total: Amount Allocation: Income: Resources: $ Available $ $ $ Reminder of ConPlan $ CDBG public - Acquisition Prior Year Resources are allocated to federal Admin and housing rehabilitation as determined by the Planning 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan. Use of those Economic funds to support objectives of the 2014-2018 Development Consolidated Plan will require prior plan year Housing significant amendments and appropriate Public approvals. Improvements Public Services 355,404 12,407 416,467 784,278 1,066,212 Table 50 - Anticipated Resources

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Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied

This Consolidated Plan leverages City staff resources for project planning, estimating and in-kind labor; State Department of Highway Transportation roadway improvement plans; West Central Arkansas Planning and Development small business loan activity and the Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Strategy implementation; Not for profit home building activities by providing City assistance in vacant land identification, reduced permitting fees and infrastructure improvements; and, encouragement and support of neighborhoods to seek other grants to complement CDBG funded activities. Neighborhood associations and community organizations are encouraged, and apply for, private, public, state and federal grants to supplement CDBG improvement projects.

If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan

The City of Hot Springs holds liens on many vacant properties, which can be sold at the cost of the lien, and these vacant lots are often coordinated with non-profit home builders. The Housing Authority of Hot Springs indicates it is in possession of buildable sites for their future home building plans.

Discussion

The City does not plan to apply for Emergency Shelter, HOME or HOPWA grant funding.

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SP-40 Institutional Delivery Structure – 91.215(k)

Explain the institutional structure through which the jurisdiction will carry out its consolidated plan including private industry, non-profit organizations, and public institutions.

Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Role Geographic Area Served Type HOT SPRINGS Government Economic Jurisdiction Development Non-homeless special needs Planning neighborhood improvements public facilities public services Hot Springs Housing PHA Public Housing Jurisdiction Authority Rental Habitat for Humanity Subrecipient Ownership Jurisdiction SPA AREA Non-profit Rental Jurisdiction INDEPENDENT LIVING organizations SERVICE, INC First Step Non-profit Rental Jurisdiction organizations CULTURAL CAMPUS Private Industry Rental Jurisdiction COMMUNITY SERVICES Non-profit Non-homeless special Jurisdiction OFFICE, INC organizations needs public services GARLAND COUNTY Government Non-homeless special Other needs Planning public services The Greater Hot Springs Regional organization Economic Region Chamber of Commerce Development Non-homeless special needs Planning WEST CENTRAL Regional organization Economic Region ARKANSAS PLANNING Development AND DEVELOPMENT Non-homeless special DISTRICT needs Planning

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Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Role Geographic Area Served Type United Way of Garland Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction County organizations Samaritan Ministries of Community/Faith- Homelessness Jurisdiction Hot Springs, Inc. based organization OUACHITA CHILDREN'S Non-profit Homelessness Region CENTER organizations SAFE HAVEN SHELTER Community/Faith- Homelessness Jurisdiction FOR WOMEN AND based organization CHILDREN StoneWorks Agency Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction organizations Table 51 - Institutional Delivery Structure Assess of Strengths and Gaps in the Institutional Delivery System

The greatest need identified to improve institutional structure is an increased awareness of and access to information regarding services and shelters available to at-risk, special-needs, and the homeless. An information repository project is currently underway through ProjectHOPE to increase data availability and provide more meaningful data to better understand the needs versus intervention services. Also revealed during consultations was a need to foster leadership, operational and business planning skills amongst new Continuum of Care providers to develop solid business plans ensuring operational costs are accurately estimated and goals are supported by realistic sources of funding.

The City strategy is to coordinate partnerships amongst its wide range of Consolidated Plan partners, including health, mental health, homelessness, veteran, elderly, community-based, housing, and state and local government agencies to further examine the causes and demographics of homelessness and risk, assist in linking data repositories, identify and report trends impacting multiple agencies in a more timely fashion, engage discharging institutions in the prevention of homelessness, coordinate the expertise of experienced providers as mentors for newer organizations to better plan and utilize resources, provide outreach, and work with Consolidated Plan partners to examine ways to ameliorate conditions that create risk, homelessness, and chronic homelessness amongst the mentally-ill and other special-needs residents.

Availability of services targeted to homeless persons and persons with HIV and mainstream services

Homelessness Prevention Available in the Targeted to Targeted to People Services Community Homeless with HIV Homelessness Prevention Services Counseling/Advocacy X X Legal Assistance X X

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Homelessness Prevention Available in the Targeted to Targeted to People Services Community Homeless with HIV Homelessness Prevention Services Mortgage Assistance X Rental Assistance X X Utilities Assistance X Street Outreach Services Law Enforcement X X Mobile Clinics Other Street Outreach Services X X Supportive Services Alcohol & Drug Abuse X X Child Care X Education X X Employment and Employment Training X X Healthcare X X HIV/AIDS Life Skills X X Mental Health Counseling X Transportation X X Other

Table 52 - Homeless Prevention Services Summary Describe how the service delivery system including, but not limited to, the services listed above meet the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth)

Available services for homeless include meals and food banks/pantries; GED education; independent living and job skills training; medical/dental/vision care; pre-natal specific care; non-mental healthcare prescriptions; emergency out-patient and limited in-patient mental healthcare; psychiatric, individual, familiy, substance abuse and peer counseling; job placement; school supplies and meals; clothing and furniture; crisis intervention and prevention; case management; and many other programs and services to end the cycle of homelessness and poverty.

Through community-wide partnerships homelessness providers are able to coordinate needed services amongst each other, and extend services to provide health and wellness education, physical activity/exercise opportunities, employment placement, GED testing facilities, and more.

The Hot Springs School District Homeless Liaison includes extensive family with childre outreach to provide shelter referrals, school breakfast, snack and lunches, backpack school supplies, individual student and family counseling, bus passes, hotel assistance, weekend and summer food supplies, public

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transportation passes, and used furniture. In 2014, over 220 students plus their families are expected to utilize these services.

StoneWorks Agency serves veterans of all eras, former felons, and their families. In coordination with the Garland County Court, Veterans Administration, St. Francis House (homeless shelter for veterans and their families in Little Rock), Haven Food Pantry, ProjectHOPE, Workforce, National Park Community Counseling, landlords, and non-profit organizations they provide health and mental health, housing, education and employment referrals. In addition, StoneWorks facilitates peer counseling groups and GED classes. They are currently exploring an opportunity to utilize a vacant church building for use as a veteran's homeless shelter.

Community Services Organization provides transportation services, a food pantry on Thursday through USDA Commodity Distribution and Rice Depot of Little Rock providing food to all-age groups of low- income residents and weekend backpack take-home food to students of Hot Springs School District on Fridays. Additionally, through Entergy, they are able to provide utility bill assistance for eligible families, and with a Garland County grant provide for emergency needs such as prescriptions or shelter costs.

Garland County CASA, court appointed special advocates, trains volunteers to serve as advocates for abused, neglected and abandoned children, who have been removed from their homes and placed in foster care. Advocates work one on one with the child, and communicate the needs and desires to the court system on their behalf in order to make the foster care or return to family stable and supportive.

Ouachita Children's Center provides services to at-risk, homeless and unaccompanied youth ages six (6) to seventeen (17) and their family including 45- to 60-day emergency shelter, exercise opportunities in partnership with the YMCA, health education through the Garland County Department of Health, school supplies and breakfast/lunch/snacks in coordination with local school districts, and internal counseling, life skills, parenting and other programs to prevent homelessness and generational poverty cycles. In addition, Ouachita Children's Center includes unaccompanied youth street outreach, and makes all efforts to return out of town, out of state youth, including travel expenses to their families.

Describe the strengths and gaps of the service delivery system for special needs population and persons experiencing homelessness, including, but not limited to, the services listed above

Service providers and shelters, in consultations and public meetings, indicated that the need for additional shelters and services is a low priority at this time. The greater need is to increase the awareness and reporting of services and shelters currently available to meet the needs of the homeless through a countywide database. This project is currently underway through ProjectHOPE. With the increase in data availability, reports and findings derived from data will be more meaningful and present a more accurate picture of the homeless population and service intervention.

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Also revealed during consultations was a need to foster leadership, operational and business planning skills amongst new Continuum of Care providers to develop solid business plans ensuring operational costs are accurately estimated and goals are supported by realistic sources of funding.

Provide a summary of the strategy for overcoming gaps in the institutional structure and service delivery system for carrying out a strategy to address priority needs

The strategy is that the City will work with its Consolidated Plan partners to further examine the causes and demographics of homelessness, assist in linking data repositories, identify and report locations where homeless congregate during counting periods, engage discharging institutions in the prevention of homelessness, coordinate and facilitate the expertise of experienced providers as mentors for newer providers to better plan and utilize resources, provide outreach, and work with Consolidated Plan partners to examine ways to ameliorate conditions that create chronic homelessness amongst the mentally-ill. The Consolidated Plan objective to encourage economic development supports the Arkansas Balance of Care strategic plan goal of increasing employment of homeless entering programs by 10%.

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SP-45 Goals Summary – 91.215(a)(4)

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Goals Summary Information

Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year

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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year 1 Neighborhood 2014 2018 Affordable Park Avenue New Housing Units CDBG: Public Facility or Infrastructure Revitalization & Housing Area / Acquisition of $1,287,866 Activities other than Affordable Housing Public Housing Whittington Existing Units Low/Moderate Income Housing Non-Homeless Valley Area Public Facilities Benefit: Special Needs Downtown Public 745 Persons Assisted Non-Housing Greater Improvements and Community Gateway Infrastructure Public Facility or Infrastructure Development Neighborhood Economic Activities for Low/Moderate Forest Hill Development Income Housing Benefit: Neighborhood Public Services 1500 Households Assisted Greater Hobson Area Public service activities other East Albert Pike than Low/Moderate Income Area Housing Benefit: 0 Persons Assisted

Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 120 Households Assisted

Facade treatment/business building rehabilitation: 0 Business

Brownfield acres remediated: 0 Acre

Rental units constructed: Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 1590 Household Housing Unit OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Rental units rehabilitated: 0 Household Housing Unit

Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year 2 Economic 2014 2018 Non-Housing Park Avenue Economic CDBG: Public Facility or Infrastructure Development Community Area Development $213,242 Activities other than Infrastructure Development Whittington Low/Moderate Income Housing Improvements Valley Area Benefit: Downtown 0 Persons Assisted Greater Gateway Public Facility or Infrastructure Neighborhood Activities for Low/Moderate Greater Hobson Income Housing Benefit: Area 0 Households Assisted East Albert Pike Area Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 0 Persons Assisted

Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 0 Households Assisted

Facade treatment/business building rehabilitation: 15 Business

Brownfield acres remediated: 0 Acre

Rental units constructed: Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 1600 Household Housing Unit OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Rental units rehabilitated: 0 Household Housing Unit

Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year 3 Fair Housing 2014 2015 Affordable Park Avenue Public Services CDBG: Public Facility or Infrastructure Housing Area $65,000 Activities other than Whittington Low/Moderate Income Housing Valley Area Benefit: Downtown 0 Persons Assisted Greater Gateway Public Facility or Infrastructure Neighborhood Activities for Low/Moderate Forest Hill Income Housing Benefit: Neighborhood 0 Households Assisted Greater Hobson Area Public service activities for East Albert Pike Low/Moderate Income Housing Area Benefit: 1500 Households Assisted

Facade treatment/business building rehabilitation: 0 Business

Brownfield acres remediated: 0 Acre

Rental units constructed: 0 Household Housing Unit

Rental units rehabilitated: 0 Household Housing Unit

Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 161Homeowner Housing Added: OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 0 Household Housing Unit

Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated:

Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year 4 Planning & 2014 2018 Affordable Park Avenue New Housing Units CDBG: Public Facility or Infrastructure Administration Housing Area / Acquisition of $284,383 Activities other than Homeless Whittington Existing Units Low/Moderate Income Housing Non-Homeless Valley Area Rental Assistance Benefit: Special Needs Downtown Housing 745 Persons Assisted Non-Housing Greater Rehabilitation Community Gateway Homelessness Public Facility or Infrastructure Development Neighborhood Outreach Activities for Low/Moderate Forest Hill Emergency / Income Housing Benefit: Neighborhood Transitional 1500 Households Assisted Greater Hobson Housing for the Area Homeless Public service activities other East Albert Pike Rapid Re-Housing than Low/Moderate Income Area Homelessness Housing Benefit: Prevention 100 Persons Assisted Public Facilities Public Public service activities for Improvements and Low/Moderate Income Housing Infrastructure Benefit: Economic 1500 Households Assisted Development Public Services Facade treatment/business building rehabilitation: 15 Business

Brownfield acres remediated: 0 Acre

Rental units constructed: Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 1620 Household Housing Unit OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Rental units rehabilitated: 0 Household Housing Unit

Table 53 – Goals Summary

Goal Descriptions

1 Goal Name Neighborhood Revitalization & Affordable Housing Goal The primary goal of this Consolidated Plan is to create suitable, quality, living environments and promote decent, affordable Description housing initiatives in targeted areas. An effort must be made to reverse blight trends in urban, aging, historic neighborhoods where population has declined, but affordable housing remains available, and safety, homeownership, livability and accessibility can be improved for low- to moderate-income and special-needs residents. By decreasing blight through the reduction of unsightly property and development of empty lots, increasing homeownership and new affordable home opportunities, while improving public infrastructure and facilities such as sidewalks, parks, drainage and green space low- to moderate-income neighborhoods will be reinvigorated, livable and reinvested. City resources will be leveraged to minimize the CDBG funds needed to plan, assess, estimate, manage, implement and maintain projects. Private and public investments will be stimulated to further CDBG funding impacts.

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2 Goal Name Economic Development Infrastructure Improvements

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Goal The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports 86% of new jobs in the current economy are created by new or expanding small to Description medium sized businesses already present in the local community. The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Strategic Economic Development Plan concludes that a serious risk to economic development is the continued deterioration of vacant, underutilized, historic, commercial structures in core, high traffic commercial corridors, which directly involve two (2) low- to moderate-income block groups (Downtown and Park Avenue), and an additional four (4) adjacent, mixed-use commercial/residential, arterial low- to moderate-income neighborhoods (Greater Gateway/Pleasant, Whittington, greater Hobson and Albert Pike). The City of Hot Springs and State of Arkansas code requires adequate fire protection, municipal water and sewer capacity in order to obtain certificate of occupancy. These muncipal infrastructure requirements to improve municipal water and sewer capacity to meet State and Local code present an undue cost burden on small and medium businesses already investing in existing building improvements and historic preservation. The redevelopment and revitalization of downtown Hot Springs is the greatest opportunity for enhancing economic vitality. Across the country, cities both small and large have rediscovered the importance of their downtowns. Through most of its history, downtown was a major destination for tourism and economic activity within Hot Springs. Its proximity to Hot Springs National Park and the presence of Bathhouse Row drew visitors to the region for over a century. But, downtown Hot Springs has lost much of its luster. Historic structures are in need of investment; ground-floor retail space is underutilized; and the upper stories for most buildings remain vacant. One serious risk is that these buildings could eventually fall into disrepair and would no longer be salvageable. Economic developers value the vibrancy of an urban core because a healthy downtown makes a city more competitive in the pursuit of new business. Downtown is seen as a reflection of whether a community values investment, and in the competition for talent, a community that offers quality of life, a suitable living environment and strong sense of place retains workers that makes business successful. In its current state, downtown is one of the lowest income areas of Hot Springs, with four (4) adjacent low- to moderate- income block groups of residential and commercial mixed-use. In conjunction with public infrastructure and services to create suitable living environments, encouraging business and job growth is an important element in the creation and expansion of businesses, and the success of workforce education and redevelopment efforts. By creating jobs, with a recruitment effort that includes non-homeless special needs such as those with disabilities, single head of household, those exiting incarceration, homelessness and foster care, and other low- to moderate-income residents, the indirect effect of increasing employment will increase income and subsequently homeownership in low- to moderate- income neighborhoods where infrastructure and public facility improvements are taking place. Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 165 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

3 Goal Name Fair Housing

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Goal The City of Hot Springs is committed to fair house choice. Fair Housing Choice is the ability of persons, regardless of race, Description color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, of similar income levels to have available to them the same housing choices. The City must pledge to affirmatively further fair housing, and take appropriate actions to overcome the effects of the impediments to fair housing choice that may be identified in an analysis. Housing choice is impeded when actions, omissions, or decisions are taken that restrict a person's choice of housing because of his/her characteristics. It is also impeded when certain residential dwellings are not made available to a person because of his/her characteristics, or failure to provide housing for any protected class mentioned. Consolidated Plan requirements include completing and identifying an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. Hot Springs will continue to take appropriate actions to overcome the effects of the identified impediments to fair housing choice. An Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study is a HUD program requirement that must be completed every five (5) years. The last Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Study was completed in 2009. To remain in compliance with governmental regulations, a new AI must be completed in 2014. The AI is a one (1) Fiscal Year expenditure; Consultant fees are estimated to be $25,000 or less. Assessing and addressing regulatory barriers to affordable housing as identified in the AI will be ongoing activities included in Annual Action Plans, and actions taken are reported yearly as part of the annual performance and evaluation report (CAPER). The Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing study will evaluate the nature and extent of housing segregation and discrimination. It will serve as a framework for the City's fair housing planning as part of its Consolidated Plan implementation. Application of the Fair Housing Act is not limited to situations involving Federal funds. It provides for fair housing throughout the Unites States in the private and public sectors. Recipients of Federal HUD fund are subject to the Consolidated Plan Final Rule of 1995, requiring each CDBG recipient to complete and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing (AI). The AI is part of the mandate to affirmatively further fair housing, and includes planning and taking annual actions to overcome the effects of any identified impediments. The City of Hot Springs must also maintain records reflecting the AI and the actions taken to address fair housing impediments. According to 2006-2010 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Studies (CHAS) reported by HUD and included in the needs analysis section of this Consolidated Plan, Hot Springs is comprised of 8,700 low- to moderate-income households, over 1,500 of which identified as racial or ethnic minorities reporting one or more housing or severe housing problems. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2010 reports that 28% of adults between the ages of twenty-one (21) and sixty-four (64) in Garland County have a disability. Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 167 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

4 Goal Name Planning & Administration Goal In light of limited funding, but to ensure the likelihood of success of efforts furthering fair housing choice Description activities, neighborhood revitalization and economic development infrastructure improvements, strengthen services and outreach provided to the homeless and at-risk by the Continuum of Care, and address other identified needs of low- to moderate-income and special-needs residents, City resources are committed to assisting in assessing needs, facilitating collaboration, inspiring leadership and planning skills, and providing support to develop shared visions, achievable plans, and coordination amongst agencies, groups and organizations. No more than 20% of CDBG funding will be allocated to reach the aforementioned goal, nor in combination, exceed other necessary planning and administration expenses such as consultant fees, advertising costs of public hearings, office supplies, travel, training, etc.

Estimate the number of extremely low-income, low-income, and moderate-income families to whom the jurisdiction will provide affordable housing as defined by HOME 91.315(b)(2)

The City of Hot Springs does not receive HOME federal grant funds, and does not intend to apply for funding under the HOME program within this Consolidated Plan 5-year period.

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SP-50 Public Housing Accessibility and Involvement – 91.215(c) Need to Increase the Number of Accessible Units (if Required by a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement)

There is no agreement or requirement to increase the number of accessible units by Section 504 Voluntary Compliance.

Activities to Increase Resident Involvements

The City of Hot Springs will continue working closely with the Public Housing Authority Family Self- Sufficiency Coordinator to promote CDBG sponsored home buyer education classes that include Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration funded down-payment and closing cost assistance enabling public housing FSS and other residents to pursue homeownership and greater self- sufficiency. The City of Hot Springs dedicated patrol officer works with Public Housing Authority management and residents to improve safety and security. Businesses receiving CDBG municipal infrastructure improvement funding for economic development and job growth purposes are encouraged to include Public Housing resident outreach in their recruitment strategy.

Is the public housing agency designated as troubled under 24 CFR part 902?

No

Plan to remove the ‘troubled’ designation

The Hot Springs Housing Authority is not designated as troubled.

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SP-55 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.215(h) Barriers to Affordable Housing

The City of Hot Springs has carefully examined its public policy and those of other agencies to remove or amend policies negatively affecting the cost of developing, maintaining or improving affordable housing.

The City annually re-adopts permit fees and charges waiver for providers of affordable housing. The City offers expedited permitting for manufactured home siting via its Manufactured Home Overlay regulations with no difference in approvals whether stick/site-built or manufactured. City of Hot Springs does not have an ad valorem (“millage”) property tax on residential properties.

In 2012 the City adopted Zoning Code amendments to clarify Reasonable Accomodation request standards and procedures. August 2012, the City of Hot Springs Planning Commission amended the 1990 enacted Fair Housing Ordinance No. 4054, Chapter 16 of the Hot Springs Zoning Code to be more consistent with the Federal Fair Housing Act in response to Public Policy Impediments. The amendment includes redefining dwelling and dwelling unit; adding definitions of familial status, person with a disability, physical or mental impairment, and reasonable accommodation; the creation of an additional Enforcement category Article II, Administrative Procedures and Enforcement to establish procedures for reviewing and documenting reasonable accommodation requests.

The City of Hot Springs Planning & Development Department continues to insure that all sub-grantees receiving CDBG funds had up-to-date Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plans; displayed Fair Housing posters and included the Fair Housing logo on all printed materials, as appropriate; provided beneficiaries with information on protected class members and instructions on how to file a complaint. In addition, City Planning & Development staff attend state and national training sessions on Fair Housing regulations and standards to stay informed.

The City of Hot Springs expanded its Fair Housing outreach by providing fair housing information brochures at city and public facilities and events, and sponsored public service announcements with media organizations that provide such services to local government.

This Consolidated Plan includes a recommendation to fund a 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice study, after which the City will take appropriate actions to address and ameliorate any barriers identified.

Strategy to Remove or Ameliorate the Barriers to Affordable Housing

This Consolidated Plan includes a recommendation to fund a 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing, and continuation of home-buyer education and financial assistance programs designed to increase low- to moderate-income homeownership. The City will also work with Consolidated Plan non- profit home building partners who serve the elderly, disabled and low-income families to support new, Consolidated Plan HOT SPRINGS 170 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)

affordable home building efforts through vacant land purchases, supportive infrastructure needs, and reduced permitting fees.

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SP-60 Homelessness Strategy – 91.215(d) Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs

The greatest need according to service providers and shelters is to increase awareness of existing resources available to meet the needs of the homeless through a countywide database. This project is currently underway through ProjectHOPE, using non-profit and non-CDBG grant funding. With the increase in data availability, reports and findings derived from data will be more meaningful and present a more accurate picture of the homeless population, needs and available service intervention.

The City of Hot Springs strategy is to continue staff efforts working with the Continuum of Care, area agencies, institutions that may be discharging into homelessness, and consolidated plan partners to coordinate efforts, improves HMIS data sharing and collection, and begin work toward a coordinated case management process that assesses and effectively addresses individual needs in order to end longterm homelessness.

Addressing the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons

In consultations and public meetings, homelessness providers, including emergency and transitional housing providers, indicated that the need for additional shelters and services was a low priority. The City of Hot Springs has therefore not committed specific funding to add shelters in this Consolidated Plan. Instead, the City will work with shelter providers to increase their participation in available area non-profit organization planning, operational cost estimating, grant writing and other skills classes that will help new and established shelters increase funding, effectively and efficiently plan costs, and make the most of limited funding while preserving or increasing services.

Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again.

"The single, simple solution to homelessness, even given the myriad of precipitating causes, is housing... that while some need supportive services and some don't, and some need a studio and some need five bedrooms, the central antidote to homelessness is a place to live. Not emergency shelter. Not so-called transitional housing. Not endless servicing. Not enabling. But a housing solution. Consumer preferred. Cost effective. Solution oriented. Housing." The American Round Table to Abolish Homelessness, Philip Mongano (August 2012)

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Given the consultative input from Continuum of Care and other providers that additional shelters and services were a low priority, and that the highest priorities were the ability to share information & resources through an HMIS, increase provider planning and grant writing skills, and provide seamless outreach, the City of Hot Springs strategy focuses on coordinating collaborative conversations and efforts amongst the many separate agencies serving homeless, veterans, youth, families, housing and shelter providers, institutions potentially discharging into homelessness, and at-risk support providers, to develop an integrated and coordinated case management system that addresses the individual and complex needs of Hot Springs residents experiencing homelessness.

The City of Hot Springs will use CDBG funds to provide home buyer education classes, which include Arkansas Department of Administration and Finance down-payment and closing cost assistance, to qualifying low- and moderate-income individuals and families in an effort to decrease rental cost burdens, and help transitional homeless and public housing residents achieve homeownership. Outreach for home buying classes specifically includes veterans, public housing, LIHTC and rental assistance residents, at-risk and homeless individuals and families receiving services.

The City of Hot Springs will use CDBG funds to support non-profit home builders to increase the availability of affordable housing.

In addition, businesses applying for and receiving CDBG municipal infrastructure improvement funding for economic development and job growth purposes are encouraged to include outreach to homeless and at-risk residents in their recruitment strategy, including those exiting homelessness, incarceration, military service, foster care and institutions; mentally, physically and developmentally disabled; employment eligible youth under the age of 18; single head of household families; elderly; victims of violence and other at-risk individuals and families that may be reached through the Continuum of Care or related service providers. By creating long term, full time, non-seasonable employment opportunities with stable and predictable income individuals and families will experience greater financial independence.

Help low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families who are likely to become homeless after being discharged from a publicly funded institution or system of care, or who are receiving assistance from public and private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education or youth needs

The City of Hot Springs strategy focuses on coordinating collaborative conversations and efforts amongst the many separate agencies serving homeless, veterans, youth, families, housing and shelter providers, institutions potentially discharging into homelessness, and at-risk support providers, to develop an integrated and coordinated case management system that addresses the individual and complex needs of Hot Springs residents experiencing homelessness.

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SP-65 Lead based paint Hazards – 91.215(i) Actions to address LBP hazards and increase access to housing without LBP hazards

The City of Hot Springs Planning & Development Department utilizes EPA-certified, licensed lead-based paint consulting firm to conduct mandatory inspections, risk assessments, laboratory testing and clearance reports for HUD-funded projects where lead-based paint is present. After evaluation, the approach to reduction may include doing no harm by repairing surfaces disturbed, controlling and/or abating hazards.

This Consolidated Plan supports the development of new, affordable housing in low- to moderate- income target areas including City staff research and coordination of available vacant lots, and potential CDBG funding of land acquisition, demolition of existing non-rehabilitatable buildings, and supportive infrastructure in the construction of new, affordable homes.

How are the actions listed above related to the extent of lead poisoning and hazards?

Based on 2006-2010 ACS data, 280 owner-ocuppied housing units and 4,649 renter-occupied units built before 1980 with children present may contain lead-based paint risks. The City proposes increased availability of new affordable housing units free of lead-based paint hazards, and continued enforcement of city, state and federal regulations requiring lead-based paint testing, control and/or abatement procedures by a licensed contractor performing renter-occupied renovations. These measures are monitored by the City of Hot Springs Building Official and inspection team following requests for permits and subsequent scheduled and unscheduled work inspections prior to and including Certificate of Occupancy.

How are the actions listed above integrated into housing policies and procedures?

City of Hot Springs housing policies and procedures include enforcement of the federal Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting rule (RRP), and Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) lead-based paint and asbestos regulations, that require prior to any renovation or demolition, testing must occur, and as applicable, EPA Lead-Safe certified contractors must be employed to perform the work safely. The City proactively disseminates information on lead hazards and regulations to staff, individuals and developers seeking building permits and inspections, public agencies, community-based organizations, non-profits, and others involved in demolition or rehabilitation activities.

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SP-70 Anti-Poverty Strategy – 91.215(j) Jurisdiction Goals, Programs and Policies for reducing the number of Poverty-Level Families

Considering the factors in which the City of Hot Springs has jurisdiction to control, this Consolidated Plan includes goals and programs to improve the financial independence of individuals and families experiencing poverty in targeted areas by increasing the affordable housing stock, reducing the effect of rental cost burdens by increasing homeownership, and encouraging long term, full time job opportunities through economic development initiatives.

In addition, the City of Hot Springs will continue examining policies and procedures by conducting an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing study in fiscal year 2014. Based on the results of the study the City will take action to assess and ameliorate barriers to affordable housing.

The City approved CDBG funding of a life-skills training program to end the cycle of poverty through the Ouachita Children's Center. The program had not been implemented at the time of this Consolidated Plan submission, however the City will monitor, evaluate, and provide additional non-financial resources and coordination to ensure the success of this program. In the fall of 2013, the Hot Springs Community School began faith-based coursework aimed at ending generational poverty cycles. The City of Hot Springs will monitor and provide non-financial resources to assist in their endeavors.

How are the Jurisdiction poverty reducing goals, programs, and policies coordinated with this affordable housing plan

As the lead agency, the City of Hot Springs, Planning & Development department coordinates CDBG plans, goals and programs with Consolidated Plan partners, residents, Continuum of Care, public and private agencies, governmental organizations, non-profit organizations, civic and business leaders, elected officials and other community members to do the most good for the most low- to moderate- income people using the limited resources and funding available.

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SP-80 Monitoring – 91.230 Describe the standards and procedures that the jurisdiction will use to monitor activities carried out in furtherance of the plan and will use to ensure long-term compliance with requirements of the programs involved, including minority business outreach and the comprehensive planning requirements

The goal of the jurisdiction is to ensure long-term compliance with the applicable regulations and standards. The City has established its monitoring process to ensure that a system of continuous communication and evaluation is in place. The monitoring process will facilitate the evaluation of program accomplishments in relation to the goals and objectives established in contracts by allowing the City to review all programs and housing service providers in order to assess strengths, weaknesses, performance capabilities and accomplishments. Information gained from the review will give the City an opportunity to determine which programs and/or strategies are working, if benefits are being achieved, needs being met and accomplishment of objectives. Both qualitative and quantifiable methods of evaluation will be utilized.

Pre-contract negotiation conferences will be held to finalize contractors or letters of understanding and post award conferences will be conducted to reiterate the terms of the contracts or terms of the letters of understanding and ensure that all parties understand their responsibilities and terms of the contract. Technical assistance will be rendered and at least one monitoring visit will be conducted for each recipient annually. The focus of the monitoring plan will center on key indicators, which demonstrate if programs are operating effectively and efficiently to meet HUD national objectives. Where projects and/or programs have delays, assessments will be conducted to determine the extent to which the delay is beyond the control of recipient, and/or the extent to which original priorities, objectives and schedules were unrealistic.

Monitoring activities for the Consolidated Plan will incorporate all program requirements of CDBG. This includes reviewing and documenting projects for eligibility, maintaining record-keeping requirements and reviewing financial transactions, including budgets and expenditures. Since the Consolidated Plan is an integrated, comprehensive document, expansions and modifications of monitoring procedures will be continually conducted to comply with all federal regulations.

CDBG Sub-recipient Compliance Monitoring

For subrecipient contracts, the City of Hot Springs develops and approves the scope of service with the sub-recepient during the pre-contract negotiation process to be consistent with HUD regulations and the priority needs identified in the Consolidated Plan. This process will ensure compliance with applicable laws and HUD guidelines. Finally, City staff prepares a contract consistent with applicable laws and guiding principles.

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Once the fiscal year begins, the agency will start to accomplish goals as set forth in the contract and also incur expenditures. The cash request form is used for reimbursement of expenditures and provided to the City to be processed. City staff will process cash requests and monthly reports by reviewing for eligibility, compliance, and reasonableness with the scope of service.

The City staff also administers implementation of the funded request for proposal, to determine that the work is carried out in accordance with the guidelines stipulated in the contract. The sub-recipient agencies will be monitored at a minimum of once per year for compliance with administrative, financial and internal control guidelines. The targeted goal for compliance monitoring will be twice per year for every agency. All sub-recipient agencies must provide monthly reports, which describe the activities carried out, and identifying the beneficiaries for the project, as well as expenditures. These reports help to identify and ensure that outreach is occurring in conformity with HUD's program objectives

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