Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 1 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Executive Summary

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

The Five-Year CDBG Consolidated Plan covers Program Year 2015 through Program Year 2019. The City of Victoria Program Year begins on October 1, 2015 and ends the following September 30, 2016. The City of Victoria will focus its CDBG funds as an area benefit toward improving the quality of life in neighborhoods where at least 51% of the residents are low- and moderate-income (LMI) persons or assist persons or households with HUD Adjusted Median Family Incomes (HAMFI) at or below 80%. CDBG funds will fund activities that meet priority need categories including affordable housing, non- housing community development, public services, public facilities, public improvements, and administration. The priority needs were based on the results of resident surveys, stakeholder interviews, one-on-one consultations with public service providers, and round table discussions. The needs as follows are all High ranking except for Increase Affordable Rental Housing is a Low needs are as follows:

Affordable Housing  Swan Crossing Initiatives (HIGH)  Homeownership Assistance (HIGH)  Habitat for Humanity (HIGH)  Housing Rehabilitation - Community Risk Reduction Programs (HIGH)  Increase Affordable Rental Housing (LOW)  Mortgage Assistance Program (HIGH)

Community Development (non-housing)  Code Enforcement (HIGH)  Demolition (HIGH)  Neighborhood Clean-Ups (HIGH)  Park Improvements (HIGH)  Transit Shelters (HIGH)  Sidewalk Improvements (HIGH)

Public Services  Subsistence Support Services (HIGH)  Children & Youth Services (HIGH)  Employment/Job Training (HIGH)  Mental Health & Wellness Services (HIGH)  Senior and/or Disabled Services (HIGH)  Abused & Neglected Children (HIGH)

Public Facilities  Homeless Shelters (HIGH)  Youth Centers (HIGH)  Special Needs Population Facilities (HIGH) Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 2 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Administration  Administration (HIGH) 2. Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment Overview

The Five-Year CDBG Consolidated Plan covers Program Year 2015 through Program Year 2019. The City of Victoria Program Year begins on October 1, 2015 and ends the following September 30, 2016. The City of Victoria will focus its CDBG funds as an area benefit toward improving the quality of life in neighborhoods where at least 51% of the residents are low- and moderate-income (LMI) persons or assist persons or households with HUD Adjusted Median Family Incomes (HAMFI) at or below 80%. CDBG funds will fund activities that meet priority need categories including affordable housing, non- housing community development, public services, public facilities, public improvements, and administration. The priority needs were based on the results of resident surveys, stakeholder interviews, one-on-one consultations with public service providers, and round table discussions.

Amended CPS will be a substantial amendment and will reduce funding in the following activities as described as follows: Habitat $56,000.00 (10 homes), Code Enforcement $160,000.00, (750 cases), and Neighborhood Clean-ups $ 25,000.00 (1 program) for a Total Amount of $241,000.00 and are detailed in the SP-05.

Minor Amendment #2 is reallocation of funding of less than $100,000 and no changes in priorities within this minor amendment. Activity priorities remain unchanged, although realignments are necessary to allow the program goals, objectives, and activity benefits from the Consolidated Plan through each consecutive Action Plan Year to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. Funding allocation within the 5-year plan will be as follows: 1. Public Facility Special Needs increase $35,000, Children & Youth Services reduction ($14,878), Mental Health & Services increase $3,420, Neglected & Abused Children reduction ($24,542) & Senior & Disabled Services reduction $1,000 for a total offset reallocation amount of $39,420 detailed in ES-07. All activities will meet the goals summary listed in the SP-45.

3. Evaluation of past performance

The previous five years have shown significant progress in the City of Victoria’s efforts to meet the housing and community development needs of low- and moderate-income persons in the community. Below are the programmatic goals for the 2014 year and their proposed outcomes.

Evaluation

The 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan showed significant progress in the City of Victoria’s efforts to implement HUD programs. The City is in compliance with HUD regulations and continues to deliver housing and community development services in an efficient manner. The Development Services Department is a City agency, which works to improve the quality of life for City residents and to

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 3 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) revitalize neighborhoods by providing decent and safe affordable housing. The Planning Department is in charge of implementing the CDBG program offers an array of housing programs and services providing the foundation needed to aid in promoting homeownership and/or sustainable neighborhoods:

• Eviction Assistance • Homeless Prevention Services • Temporary Homeless Displacement Service • Job Training Services • Subsistence Services (Utility, Meals-on-Wheels, Kids Backpack programs) • Children & Youth Afterschool and Summer Care Programs • Crime Prevention Activities • Park Improvements • Installation of Sidewalks and Transit Shelters • Street Lighting Improvements • Parking Public Improvement • Public Facility projects at homeless and special need shelters • Youth Center improvements • Mortgage, Homeownership and Housing Initiative Assistance Programs • New Housing Infrastructure development

Additionally, CDBG funds Code Enforcement and Demolition activities help to preserve the City's affordable housing stock and provides sustainability of the neighborhood. Sustainability provides suitable living environments through quality of life ordinance enforcement activities such as minimum housing codes; demolish unsafe, noncompliant structures, clean- up debris and weedy lots, and abandoned/junk vehicles. These initiatives are also part of the City's Strategic Plan, The City has been successful in implementing these programs in the past and anticipates the continuation of such programs in the future. The City will use CDBG funds to make these programs successful and to meet the goals and objectives identified in the Consolidated Plan.

4. Summary of citizen participation process and consultation process

In preparation for the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan, and 2015 Action Plan, the City involved residents and stakeholders to the greatest extent possible. Through various meetings listed below the City was able to gauge the public’s opinions. Consolidated Plan schedule is as follows:

 January 20, 2015 City Council Manager’s Report concerning the Consolidated Plan Priorities.  January 28, 2015 staff met with (17) seventeen Service Providers at the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition social service agencies and presented a synopsis of the consolidated plan.  March 10, 2015, Twenty-seven (27) agencies were invited to attend the CDBG roundtable and sixteen (16) organizations attended in which the priority needs were ranked.  February through April, 2015 Individual consultations were held with seventeen (17) public services and facility agencies to obtain specific information needed for the Consolidated Plan.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 4 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)  February through April, 2015 -20 individual “What Does Victoria Need” surveys were completed by City of Victoria residents.  March 31, 2015 - Data collected from fifty (50) surveys on “Top Community Priorities” as obtained from the City of Victoria Comprehensive Plan project will be utilized to supplement the plan process.  May 5, 2015 City Council Manager’s Report to Adopt Priority Tables.  June 25, 2015 Public Meeting for Service Providers at the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition Meeting concerning the Consolidated Plan priorities and 1-Year Action Plan projects recommended for funding.  July 7, 2015 City Council Manager’s Report for PSA and PF funding recommendations.  July 21, 2015 City Council Manager’s Report for Draft Con Plan and Draft Action Plan.  August 4, 2015 City Council Public Hearing, Resolution for adoption of Action Plan and 5-year Con Plan.

Action Plan

 May 7, 2015 Public Service Agency & Public Facility grant application meeting (24 agencies invited and 12 agencies attended).  June 25, 2015 Public Meeting for Service Providers @ Victoria Area Homeless Coalition Meeting concerning the Consolidated Plan priorities and 1-Year Action Plan projects recommended for funding.  July 7, 2015 City Council Managers Report for Public Service Agency and Public Facility funding recommendations.  July 21, 2015 City Council Managers Report for Draft Con Plan and Draft Action Plan.  August 4, 2015 City Council Public Hearing, Resolution for adoption of Action Plan and 5-year Con Plan.

2017 Amended Consolidated Plan & Strategy

The City’s CDBG Public Participation Plan requires the publication of a 30-day citizen comment period and at least one public hearing during the CPS Amendment process. The citizen comment period began on April 16, 2017 and concludes at 4:00 pm on May 16, 2017. A public hearing will be conducted at the May 16, 2017 City Council meeting. City Council approval is required prior to submission of the amended CPS to HUD.

 April 16, 2017 through May 16, 2017 30-day citizen comment period  May 16, 2017 City Council Public Hearing, Resolution for adoption of Amended Consolidated Plan & Strategy (CPS)Minor Amendment #2 does not require a public hearing but a Manager's Report was presented in the June 19, 2018 City Council Meeting and there was no further action.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 5 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 5. Summary of public comments

Through an extensive participation process, the public comments will be summarized in the PR-15 and all public comments were accepted and recorded. The Public Participation Plan is summarized as follows:

A Citizen Participation Plan is a required part of the consolidated planning process. (24 CFR 91.105) Although the regulations do not require a formal structure for citizen participation, they do state that citizens shall be involved in the prioritizing and planning of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) activities. In an effort to permit public examination and to enhance public accountability, the City of Victoria will make the following information available to citizens, public agencies and other interested parties upon request. The City of Victoria will conduct all of its Community Development activities to minimize the displacement of persons. To encourage ample citizen participation in the CDBG program:

 The City Council will hold at least one public hearing during the development of the consolidated plan and for any substantial amendments to the plan to obtain citizen views.  Advance notice for all public hearings will be published two weeks in advance of the hearing. The proposed consolidated plan and any substantial amendments to the plan will be published in summary form in the Victoria Advocate. Copies will be available at the Victoria Public Library, government offices, and other public places.  A citizens' comment period will last for at least 30 days after the publication of the consolidated plan or substantial amendments to the plan.  Comments and views expressed by citizens on the proposed plan or substantial amendments will be considered by the City and enclosed in summary form to the plan.  The City will provide a timely, substantive written response to every written citizen complaint, within an established period of time (within 15 working days, where practicable).  While the citizens of the City of Victoria will provide input and direction for the development of the CDBG program, City Council will have the ultimate responsibility to determine how and where the Community Development funds will be spent.

Notice for amended CPS public hearing will be published May 1, 2017 which is two weeks in advance of the hearing. The proposed consolidated plan and any substantial amendments to the plan will be published in summary form in the Victoria Advocate. Copies will be available at the Victoria Public Library, government offices, and other public places.

2017 CONSOLIDATED PLAN & STRATEGY AMENDMENT PROCESS

 The Consolidated plan has been reviewed in 2017 and determined that a substantial amendment was necessary due to changes in the use of CDBG funds over the amount of $100,000 from one eligible activity to another based on the City of Victoria Citizen Participation Plan. The process included the following timeline:  April 16, 2017 - Publication in the local newspaper

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 6 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)  April 16, 2017 - 30-day citizen participation comment period to begin  May 1, 2017 - two (2) week notice of public hearing  May 16, 2017 - 30-day citizen participation comment period ends  May 16, 2017 - City Council Public Hearing and Resolution

Minor Amendment #2 does not require a public hearing so there is no public comments but a Manager's Report was presented in the June 19, 2018 City Council Meeting.

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

All comments received by the City of Victoria will be considered and are, generally or specifically, addressed by the Strategic Plan and/or Annual Action Plan.

7. Summary

The Five-Year Consolidated Plan for years 2015-2019 identifies goals, objectives, and strategies to address the City of Victoria’s housing and community development needs. Over the next five years, the City of Victoria will continue to deliver housing and community development services through housing programs, Code Enforcement, Parks and Recreation, Development Center, Planning, and Public Works, as well as through partnerships with public service and facility providers.

The objectives outlined in the Plan’s Needs Assessment and goals directly reflect the extensive citizen participation process that involved neighborhood residents, service and facility providers, and other community partners. The past projects meet the priority needs as determined by residents and stakeholders through the public participation process and through this process the City of Victoria’s CDBG activities directly reflects the priorities set during the consultation and needs process.

The 2015 through the 2019 amended CPS reprogrammed funds from Habitat for Humanity (10 homes), Code Enforcement Officer funding from CDBG to General Funds and reprogramming of Clean-up funding. The program outcomes that were funded went to Mortgage Assistance (14 homes), Demolitions (13 building) and increased Public Infrastructure projects.

Minor Amendment #2 is funding reallocation of less than $100,000 and there will be no priority changes within this minor amendment. Activity priorities remain unchanged, although realignments are necessary to allow the program goals, objectives, and activity benefits from the Consolidated Plan through each consecutive Action Plan Year to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. Funding allocation within the 5-year plan will be as follows: 1. Public Facility Special Needs increase $35,000, Children & Youth Services reduction ($14,878), Mental Health & Services increase $3,420, Neglected & Abused Children reduction ($24,542) & Senior & Disabled Services reduction $1,000 for a total offset reallocation amount of $39,420.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 7 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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

CDBG Administrator VICTORIA City of Victoria, Texas Table 1 – Responsible Agencies

Narrative

The Development Services Planning Department administers the CDBG program with assistance from the Finance Department that provides the separation of duties and is responsible for processing the IDIS draws and manages the grant funding. Public Works and Parks & Recreation Departments are also involved for implementing in-house infrastructure and facility projects. The Legal Department writes all CDBG contracts and is consulted for legal opinions and for contract issues with sub-recipients.

Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information

John Kaminski, City of Victoria, Assistant City Manager

700 Main St.

Suite #129

Victoria, Texas 77901

or

Darlah Sims

City of Victoria, Community Development Coordinator

700 Main St. Suite #129 Victoria, Texas 77901

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 8 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) PR-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l) 1. Introduction

The City of Victoria's 2015-2020 Consolidated Plan is developed in response to the requirements of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The five-year plan serves as the strategic plan and application for funding under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Program Years 2015-2020. The plan describes community needs, resources, priorities, and proposed activities to be undertaken with CDBG funds. Community representatives, sub-recipients, public service agencies, private sector partners, Victoria Area Homeless Coalition members and City Council, provide input into the department's plans for HUD funding in on-going consultations and collaborations. For the Consolidated Plan, the City hosted a roundtable with non-profits and facility representatives and one Social Service Provider Forum for Public Service agencies and facilities. One-on-One consultations were held to acquire more comprehensive information about priority needs, goals, objectives and funding issues. The required 30-day public review comment period was from July 2, 2015 to August 4, 2015. Additionally, efforts were made to integrate existing community plans such as the Continuum of Care, which addresses homeless issues, and the City of Victoria Comprehensive Plan, which is a master plan dealing with all aspects of city government. The schedule of citizen participation is located on Page eight (8) and nine (9) of the Executive Summary. In order to encourage the continuing involvement of citizens in the HUD-sponsored programs administered by the City of Victoria, the city will continue to communicate openly about CDBG and other HUD programs with its partners and with the public as outlined in the Citizen Participation Plan. Throughout the five-year period covered by this plan, the city will sponsor public meetings to encourage citizen participation in the development of annual Action Plans, proposed programs and to evaluate the city's performance during the previous program year. These meetings represent opportunities for the public to be involved in housing and community development activities in the City of Victoria.

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)).

The Consolidated Plan was developed with a strong emphasis on community input. The Development Services Department consultations consist of public outreach with a number of housing and community development professionals. Institutional coordination of the Consolidated Plan establishes a unified vision for community development. The City uses a collaborative process to work closely with its sub- recipients and other service providers to shape programs into effective, coordinated strategies. The City will execute this Consolidated Plan in harmony with public, private and nonprofit agencies to design programs that address identified needs.

The City of Victoria involved public and private housing, health, mental health and service agencies in a number of ways such as the involvement in the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition (VAHC), which includes not only homeless service providers but health, mental health, substance abuse treatment, and housing Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 9 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) providers as well as local businesses. On March 10, 2015, a Social Service Provider Roundtable was held for Public Service agencies and facilities to discuss the needs in the community, how the needs were being met and how the groups could enhance coordination and collaboration.

The Development Services Department has a working relationship with the Victoria Public Housing Authority. The City is the responsible entity to ensure the Victoria Public Housing Authority's plans are consistent and continue to provide the much needed housing for the low-income person, families, elderly and disabled residents in the City of Victoria. The City of Victoria Code Enforcement works directly with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), a governmental health agency for cases needing additional intervention. The HHS is a proven resource to provide essential human services for elderly and disabled residents that are living in substandard housing or situations that are not suitable for human habitation.

Gulf Bend Wellness Center provides a mental health facility that serves the disabled persons in the City of Victoria. A new housing project is under construction that will be transitional housing with a 24/7 respite care for up to 3 days for the severely disabled adults. The facility will have 32 units that will provide the residents; counseling, life skills, comprehensive personalized support, medical and medication stability and housing up to 24 months. The roundtable and one-on-one meetings allow and enhance the communication and cooperation among nonprofit, private and public facility organizations working to improve and provide the essential services in Victoria.

An amendment in the CPS is that Habitat for Humanity is now constructing homes in a subdivision that is not within a CDBG-eligible Census block group and no eligible Habitat location is expected to be available within the remaining years of the current CPS. To continue to address affordable housing- related CPS goals, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Mortgage Assistance Program.

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 Victoria's Continuum of Care (CoC) funding is administered by Mid-Coast Family Services (MCFS), the lead agency through one-on-one collaborations and consultations as well as during agency monitoring, the City works closely with the agency and other agencies serving homeless persons, and to the needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) funded programs have played a significant role in reducing the number of individuals/families who become homeless by funding preventative programs in the CoC. Texas Homeless Network serves as the lead, HMIS administrator and the collaborative applicant for the HUD (CoC) Balance of State. Texas Homeless Network in collaboration with MCFS has established a very close inter-agency collaboration to ensure that homeless persons are linked to services best suited for their needs. In grant collaboration, MCFS has partnered with Community Action Committee of Victoria to apply for the maximum ESG funding available for a COC in the amount of $150,000. The ESG funds will

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 10 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) be utilized for homeless prevention, utility assistance and rapid re-housing of homeless persons and awards will be announced during the 3rd quarter of 2015 and a start dated of October 1, 2015, if successful in receiving the grant award.

The allocation of the ESG funds will provide 50% to homeless prevention, 30% shelter, 10% to street outreach and 10% for Housing Management Information System (HMIS) support. The performance standards, that are in place for the ESG funding are the Federal Best Practices with the evaluation of outcome completed through the follow-up with clients quarterly and semiannually and assess the service satisfaction. The Policy and Procedure will be the Board of Directors guidance bringing their expertise from all fields and one Board position which is held by a formerly homeless person.

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 Victoria's Continuum of Care (CoC) funding is administered by Mid-Coast Family Services, the lead agency through one-on-one collaborations and consultations as well as during agency monitoring, the City works closely with the agency and other agencies serving homeless persons, and to the needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. ESG funded programs have played a significant role in reducing the number of individuals/families who become homeless by funding preventative programs in the CoC. Texas Homeless Network serves as the lead, HMIS administrator and the collaborative applicant for the HUD (CoC) Program for the Balance of State. Texas Homeless Network in collaboration with MCFS has established a very close inter-agency collaboration to ensure that homeless persons are linked to services best suited for their needs. In grant collaboration, MCFS has partnered with Community Action Committee of Victoria to apply for the maximum ESG funding available for a COC in the amount of $150,000. The ESG funds will be utilized for homeless prevention, utility assistance and rapid re-housing of homeless persons and awards will be announced during the 3rd quarter of 2015 and a start dated of October 1, 2015, if successful in receiving the grant award. The allocation of the ESG funds will provide 50% to homeless prevention, 30% shelter, 10% to street outreach and 10% for HMIS support. The performance standards, that are in place for the ESG funding are the Federal Best Practices with the evaluation of outcome completed through the follow-up with clients quarterly and semiannually and assess the service satisfaction. The Policy and Procedure will be the Board of Directors guidance bringing their expertise from all fields and one Board position which is held by a formerly homeless person.

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 VICTORIA 11 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization MID-COAST FAMILY SERVICES, INC. Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-Victims of Domestic Violence Services-homeless Services - Victims What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 12 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) How was the Mid-Coast Family Services (MCFS) is a sub-recipient Agency/Group/Organization consulted of Public Facility funding and is a past subrecipient of and what are the anticipated outcomes PSA funding. They were contacted through the of the consultation or areas for roundtable and the one-on-one consultations. The improved coordination? consultation was developed through a one-on-one consultation and also through the roundtable for public service providers and facility representatives. The agency provides the Womens Crisis Center for battered women and also services for the homeless. The outcome of the coordination is to have a complete understanding of the ESG funding they receive through the COC and the allocation. Mid- Coast Family Services is the recipient of the Continuum of Care (CoC) that provides the much needed transitional shelter for the chronic homeless men and women. The men and women are provided with the tools and shelter to remove themselves from their past homeless situations to become a self-sufficient member of society. MCFS have recently built a Crisis Center for battered women and their children. MCFS is currently applying for Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) in coordination with Community Action Committee. The agency helps to determine the level of continued need and goals to meet the need as an agency and a sub-recipient. An area for improved coordination is that all agencies met on a quarterly meeting outside of the Homeless Coalition meetings to encourage trust between nonrelated homeless agencies, increase communication and streamline the information necessary from one agency to the other. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Christ's Kitchen Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless Soup Kitchen What section of the Plan was addressed Homelessness Strategy by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Homeless Needs - Families with children Homelessness Needs - Veterans Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 13 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) How was the Christ's Kitchen attended the roundtable and Agency/Group/Organization consulted participated in a one-on-one colsultation. The and what are the anticipated outcomes agency is a soup kitchen that serves a hot meal 6 of the consultation or areas for days a week. During inclement weather they will improved coordination? open the facility during daytime hours for shelter to enhance coordination provided through roundtables with other non-profits to build working relationships. 3 Agency/Group/Organization Perpetual Help Home Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-Victims of Domestic Violence Services-homeless Services-Employment What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Homeless Needs - Families with children How was the Perpetual Help Home a subrecipient of Public Agency/Group/Organization consulted Service Agency CDBG funding and was contacted and what are the anticipated outcomes through the roundtable and the one-on-one of the consultation or areas for consultations attended the roundtable and met on a improved coordination? one-on-one consultation. The employees and trainees at Perpetual Help Homes Center for Peace created the Opportunity Knocks and the Acceleration Program. They are also the instructors for the program demonstrating the leadership and empowerment they have experienced and hope to pass on to others. Skills taught are: Business Professionalism; Entrepreneurship; Organization and Multitasking; Microsoft Office; Quick Books; Publisher; Proficiency in typing; Hands on training as non-profit. The training is taught in modules, some direct instruction and some individual paced self-instruction. Areas for improvement in coordination provide periodic meetings with the PHA and the CoC to increase networking for the homeless and at-risk homeless persons.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 14 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 4 Agency/Group/Organization KIDZconnection - Victoria Independent School District Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-homeless Services-Education What section of the Plan was addressed Homelessness Strategy by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth How was the The Victoria Independent School District Agency/Group/Organization consulted KIDZconnection a subrecipient for Public Service and what are the anticipated outcomes Agency CDBG funding was contacted through the of the consultation or areas for roundtable and the one-on-one consultations. The improved coordination? agency provides the basic needs for the homeless and at-risk-homeless families. Project Success assists in case managemeent directly for the student to remove the barriers that impede their academic success. The need for improvement is the referral to outside agencies for assistance with mental health counseling. 5 Agency/Group/Organization Housing Authority of the City of Victoria Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing PHA Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities What section of the Plan was addressed Public Housing Needs by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs How was the The Housing Authority for the City of Victoria (PHA) Agency/Group/Organization consulted was invited to the roundtable and met for a one-on- and what are the anticipated outcomes one consultation. One of the most difficult areas of the consultation or areas for that is needed for improvement is the resident improved coordination? involvement. Many service agencies have offered assistance but continue to get participation or interest. The PHA will continue to keep trying to solicit the residents to get an idea of their interest in participating.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 15 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 6 Agency/Group/Organization COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE OF VICTORIA Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs How was the Community Action Committee of Victoria a Agency/Group/Organization consulted subrecipient of Public Service Agency CDBG funding and what are the anticipated outcomes was contacted was consulted on a one-on-one basis of the consultation or areas for and attended the roundtable. They receive funding improved coordination? from TDHCA for weatherization and utility assitance. They also provide lunch 5-days a week for the Meals-On-Wheels program. Recently they are applying in collboration with Mid-Coast Family Services, the CoC for the City of Victoria for additonal Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funding. Another collaboration is with the Area Agency on Aging at the Golden Crescent Regional Planning Commision to provide a coordinated system of information and access information on services and supports and provide handicap accessibility for elderly or disabled persons. The improved coordination is the continually accessing programs and agencies to provide assistance. In 2017 Habitat had a one-one consultation concerning the amendment to move funding from Habitat to another Affordable Housing program. 7 Agency/Group/Organization HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF VICTORIA Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 16 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) How was the Golden Crescent Habitat of Humanity a subrecipient Agency/Group/Organization consulted of CDBG funding, attended the roundtable and and what are the anticipated outcomes participated in the one-on one consultation. Habitat of the consultation or areas for is the only participating new housing construction improved coordination? agency. They have constructed 82 homes with 2 additonal homes under construction for the low- income homebuyers. One of the areas for improved consultation is a neighborhood works person to prevent difficult housing opportunities. An increased outreach for services would provide the underserved populations more assistance in home ownership. In 2017 the City further discussed with Habitat concerning the construction of homes in a subdivision that is not within a CDBG-eligible Census block group and no eligible Habitat for Humanity location is expected to be available within the remaining years of the current CPS. Habitat for Humanity is now constructing homes in a subdivision that is not within a CDBG-eligible Census block group and to continue to address affordable housing- related CPS goals, this amendment will allocate these funds to the Mortgage Assistance Program. 8 Agency/Group/Organization Faith Family Church Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-homeless Shelter What section of the Plan was addressed Homelessness Strategy by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 17 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) How was the Faith Family is a subrecipient of eviction prevention Agency/Group/Organization consulted PSA funding. The agency attended the roundtable and what are the anticipated outcomes and participated in the one-on-one consultations. of the consultation or areas for They have recently purchased the House of Dreams, improved coordination? a transitional housing shelter for women and children. They are planning to expand the shelter in the future and find a location for a homeless shelter for family housing. Both of expansion and new family shelter location will require additional coordination with the medical community and landowners. They also have an eviction prevention program. Faith Family has selected Queen City as an Adopt-a-Block which they remove the debris and do minor repair or painting of the homes currently in 8 blocks on the first Saturday of the month. An effort that needs improvement is their partnership with Mid-Coast Family Services to better coordinate homeless housing. 9 Agency/Group/Organization The Salvation Army Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services-homeless Shelter What section of the Plan was addressed Homelessness Strategy by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Homelessness Needs - Veterans How was the The Salvation Army is a subrecipient fo CDBG Agency/Group/Organization consulted funding and attended the consultation and also the and what are the anticipated outcomes one-on-one consultation. Salvation Army is the only of the consultation or areas for men shelter in Victoria. They have developed a improved coordination? "Stepping Stone" Program which is a rehab program for drug and alcohol addicted persons with a 30-day lock in component for the men enrolled in the program. One significant item that is needed for the chronically homeless men is improved coordination of mental health services and direct assistance to see then men back to self-sufficiency. 10 Agency/Group/Organization Food Bank of the Golden Crescent Agency/Group/Organization Type Sustenance -Food Bank

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 18 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) What section of the Plan was addressed Homelessness Strategy by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs How was the The Food Bank of the Golden Crescent is a sub- Agency/Group/Organization consulted recipient of CDBG funding and was invited to the and what are the anticipated outcomes roundtable and met on a one-on-one consultation. of the consultation or areas for The Food Bank distributes 1.3 million pounds of food improved coordination? to Victoria, feeding many at-risk homeless and homeless persons through other agencies. They have a backpack program for the elementary students that are homeless in the City of Victoria. They are doing street outreach in the form of a mobile pantry and nutrition education and assist persons obtaining their subsidized benefits. The areas of improved coordination is the limited number of partners that are (501)(c)(3) non-profit status, volunteer labor, and a non-profit quarterly meeting to improve the communication between agencies. 11 Agency/Group/Organization Boys & Girls Club of Victoria Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children What section of the Plan was addressed Non-Housing Communtiy Development Needs by Consultation? How was the The Boys & Girls Club is a sub-recipient of CDBG Agency/Group/Organization consulted Public Facility and PSA funding and attended the and what are the anticipated outcomes roundtable and participated in a one-on-one of the consultation or areas for consultation to determine the children and youth improved coordination? needs. Improved coordination is needed in transportation of the children to the facility for the low-income children. Boys and Girls club see a need to bring more 13-18 year olds, activities and attractions to keep the children engaged in positive activities. 12 Agency/Group/Organization Restoration House Ministries Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing Services-homeless treatment center What section of the Plan was addressed Homelessness Strategy by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 19 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) How was the The Restoration House Ministries was invited to the Agency/Group/Organization consulted roundtable and participated in a one-on-one and what are the anticipated outcomes consultation. The facility is considered a treatment of the consultation or areas for center for women and their children, providing improved coordination? housing, basic needs, life and social skills and counseling. The ministry also manages the House of Dreams a transistional housing facility for women and their children. Restoration House Ministries see the most need for coordination is in uninsured mental health services. 13 Agency/Group/Organization Victoria Economic Development Agency/Group/Organization Type Planning organization What section of the Plan was addressed Economic Development by Consultation? How was the The Victoria Economic Development Corp. was Agency/Group/Organization consulted invited tot he roundtables and participated in a one- and what are the anticipated outcomes on-one consultation VEDC provides community and of the consultation or areas for regional support for business development, improved coordination? information and tools needed to make a clear evaluation of our community when considering a development investment. Through informal weekly meetings an opportunity is made available for participants to share ideas regarding economic development relevant topics ranging from community assets, the economic development process, to education, or just general announcements. An area for improved coordination is the need for continuation of the meetings and to expand participation. 14 Agency/Group/Organization GULF BEND MHMR CENTER Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-homeless Services-Health Health Agency What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 20 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) How was the Gulf Bend is a subrecipient of CDBG Public funding Agency/Group/Organization consulted and was invited to attend the roundtable and and what are the anticipated outcomes participated in a one-on-one consultation. Gulf of the consultation or areas for Bend is the provider of services for a very special improved coordination? segment of the population of those persons experiencing mental illness, specifically the serious and persistent mentally ill including persons with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression. The Center also addresses the needs of persons with intellectual functioning & developmental disabilities and related conditions. They continue to see a need for affordable housing for persons with special needs. 15 Agency/Group/Organization Victoria County Public Health Department (VCPHD) Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS What section of the Plan was addressed Non-Homeless Special Needs by Consultation? How was the The Victoria County Public Health Department Agency/Group/Organization consulted Special Services participated in a one-on-one and what are the anticipated outcomes consultation. The Special Services Department of the consultation or areas for provides support, assistance, and educational improved coordination? services to persons living with HIV/AIDS as well as those affected by the virus living in the Victoria area. The most improved coordination needed is a coordination of all affordable and accessible housing available to special needs and limited clientele.

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

All agency types required were consulted so there is no rationale for not consulting.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 21 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 Organization goals of each plan? Continuum of Mid-Coast Family The goals of the Strategic Plan and the Continuum of Care Care Services (COC) must be coordinated to ensure all funding requirements are met as the Responsible Entity for the COC grant funding, reviews and the release of of the funding. 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 actively partners with many local non-profit community agencies and works with them to support the goals of the provision of affordable, safe and sanitary housing; a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities for low and moderate income persons within the City. At a minimum, implicit in these goals is the City’s commitment to providing coordinated community, housing and supportive services to its low-income residents. These services are provided through partnerships with government and quasi-governmental agencies, as well as respective planning efforts as shown in the table below. The City of Victoria will continue to encourage building partnerships between governments, lenders, builders, developers, real estate professionals, and advocates for low-income persons. The City of Victoria will continue to work with the building industry, banking industry, real estate industry, social service providers, and other community groups to promote the development of affordable housing and related housing services. Many of the programs and activities that will be carried out by the City during the next five (5) years will involve coordination with a number of agencies and organizations. The tables are exhibited in the narrative section below.

Narrative (optional):

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 22 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 Citizen Participation Outreach

Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 1 City Council Non- Jan 20, 2015 The summary of comments received were as All comments were Managers targeted/ Managers follows: 1. Funding for eligible parks was accepted into the Report broad Report City discussed; 2. The Childrens Discovery Museum plan so there is no community Council eligibility was discussed and if it did not reason for further Meeting to principally benefit low-income children it comment. discuss would be ineligible for CDBG funding; 3. The prioritization Council feels that in past years funding has of CPS been going to the appropriate programs; 4. priorities. The Council noted that there was a lack of sidewalks available to pedestrians.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 23 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 2 Public Homeless The public The summary of comments received were as The priority rankings Meeting and At-Risk meeting was follows:1. City Council needs to be more aware were used to Homeless held on of the homless needs;2. Need more affordable determine priorities providers January 29, housing for the very low and extremely low- in the Consolidated 2015 at the income residents;3. Want to see more Plan and all Pine Street homeless services versus facility comments related to Community improvements;4. Would like to require HUD programs were Center. There inspections or a tenant board to be completed incorporated into was 19 people prior to occupancy to reduce the substandard the plan. in attendance rental properties and housing habitability and 7 issues;5. HUD fair market rent rates are very responses low since the utilities are deducted out of the were received. rent rate, leaving an inadequate amount for the actual rental.6. Need for a family shelter;7. Public Service Agency (PSA) caps was discussed

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 24 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 3 City Council Non- The April City There was no comments, so summarization not No comment not Managers targeted/ Council required. accepted so no Report broad Managers reason is required. community Report was held and no response was received during the hearing to adopt the Consolidated Plan Priority Tables. 4 City Council One-on-one January 16 one-on-one consultations held and specific All comments were Managers service through March discussions and comments are contained in the accepted. Report providers 2015, one-on- PR-10 Consultation. Continual discussion on and public one service the 15% PSA cap and total annual budget of facility providers and approximately $500,000. meetings public facility discussed the consolidated plan needs, strategies and goals.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 25 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 5 Public Rountable 16 agencies Priority needs were surveyed and the agencies All comments were Meeting with service attended the collectively determined the 5 to 6 highest accepted. The providers roundtable priorities for Public Services and Public priority rankings and facility held on March Facilities/Improvements were used to agencies 10, 2015 and determine priorities priority needs in the Consolidated were Plan and all surveyed. comments related to HUD programs were incorporated into the plan.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 26 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 6 Public VAHC public The public Comments to be summarized if any received The priority rankings Meeting meeting held meeting was were used to in June 2015 held in June determine priorities 24, 2015 at the in the Consolidated Pine Stree Plan and all Community comments related to Center. There HUD programs were was 13 people incorporated into in attendance the plan. the PSA and facility recipients were discussed and 1 response was received.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 27 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 7 City Council Non- The July 7th 4 comments were received during the July 7, All comments were Managers targeted/ 2015, City 2015 meeting as follows: 1. The Childrens accepted related to Report broad Council Discovery Museum asked to be reconsidered HUD programs were community Managers for receiving CDBG funding for the the incorporated into Reports was Museum Without Walls Access card that some the plan. held for the of the activities income documentation was PSA funding not able to be accomplished and the activities recommendati would provide low-income more access to the ons and programs. 2. The Womens Crisis Center adoption of requested additional Public Facility funding for the One Year more space, to serve additional persons in Action Plan abusive situations. The space would provide and the 5-year space for the case management, counselors, Consolidated staff, group room and supply closet and 2 plan and no bedrooms/ 8 additional beds3. An explanation response was for what the Childrens Discovery Museum received would need to do to possibly qualify in future program years was discussed; 4. Council noted that the lack of funding for certain programs was due to federal regulations that limit what CDBG money can be used for.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 28 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 8 City Council Non- The July Childrens Discovery Museum requested to be All comments were Managers targeted/ 21,2015, City reconsidered for CDBG Public Service Agency accepted related to Report broad Council funding. Ms. Zapolack gave a brief intro of learning, HUD programs were community Managers and stated that it is what Discovery Museum strives incorporated into for. Discovery Museum is one of the best kept Report to the plan. secrets in Victoria. The program, Museum Without make final Walls, provides a 10-week program for children and approval their mothers and they are always asked when they Public Service will be able to do it again. Serviced 1,000 students Agency free of charge. First STEAM camp is being held this funding week. They feel they are not known and not recommendati recognized. Asking for the city financial support, to ons and fund and purchase exhibits. Hoping to secure priorities for Community Block Grant funds. Councilman Mr. the 1st Year Halepaska discussed how in previous plans he liked that money would go to plans that last such as Action Plan of sidewalks. Councilman Mr. Alvarez noted that is the 5-Year what public facilities/improvements are, such as the Consolidated splash pad, and he likes the numbers that funding is plan. at now. City Manager, Charmelle Garrett feels that switching to groupings for different kinds of funding in past plans has proved to be very beneficial in showing who the funding helps and impacts. Council also noted that there are still financial requirements even if we broaden the youth category. Councilwoman Ms. Soliz wanted clarification on what a playscape was and Mr. Mayfield said it was a the playground equipment.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 29 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) 9 Public Non- In August 4, Council noted the work that had gone into the All comments were Hearing targeted/ 2015 City competition and the time necessary to accepted related to broad Council final undertake federal grants such as 2015-2019 HUD programs were community public hearing HUD Consolidated Plan and the 2015-2016 incorporated into and resolution HUD Action Plan. No further public comments the plan. to adopt the were made. CDBG Action Plan and the Consolidated Plan was held. 10 Public Non- On May 16, All Comments will be received and noted. All comments will be Meeting targeted/ 2017 City accepted into the broad Council final plan, so there is no community public hearing reasons for further and resolution comment. to adopt the Amended Consolidated Plan

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 30 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 11 Public Homeless & The public The summary of comments received were as All comments are Meeting At-Risk meeting was follows:1. Referrals were made to Faith Family accepted and Homeless held on April 27, Eviction Prevention Program and reported that no considered into the 2017 at the Pine gets funded and it is based on church requirements. plan amendment so Street Discussed about the separation of state and church there is no reason Community that was followed very carefully. Also discussed for further Center. There that both the Salvation Army & Faith Family was 21 people guidelines are alike and both have established a comment. in attendance priority ranking on how applicant are considered, and 3 responses who demonstrate they will be able to pay their rent were received. going forward. The priorities to receive assistance Handouts were we disabled, elderly, families with children and given out fixed incomes families. Discussed with Victoria showing the Area Homeless Coalition (VHAC) that all necessary Con-Plan documents were required and selection was based amendment on all that applied for assistance that month and funding moves were then ranked by priorities established within and also the CDBG contract. Records are kept showing if the discussed the family is a member of the church and to date transfer of informed VAHC that only 1 family had been a partial funding member of Faith Family. 2. Director of Faith Family from one Eviction Prevention program talked with the eviction president of VAHC and will attend the next meeting prevention to further discuss program.3. Discussion on the program to amendment were that VAHC was happy that more another that sidewalks would be going in to allow the homeless would be able more walkability within the city. to expend the funds by Sept. 30, 2017. 12 Public Non- On May 16, The summary of comments received were as All comments are Hearing targeted/ 2017 City follows:Councilwoman Jan Scott appreciated the accepted and clearly written CM-1 that summarized the changes

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 31 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Sort Mode of Target of Summary of Summary of Summary of URL Orde Outreach Outreach response/ comments received comments not (If r attendance accepted applicable and reasons ) broad Council public for the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan & Strategy considered into the community hearing and (CPS). Councilwoman Josie Soliz, discussed further Con plan resolution to that we were not going to be building anything for amendment so there adopt the Habitat of Humanity during the next 3 years is no reason for because their current neighborhood they are amended further comment. building is not in an eligible area. She also asked CDBG about the removal of the Code Enforcement officer Consolidated from CDBG that it would not affect the total Plan was held. number. Assistant City Manager, Mr. Kaminski stated the salary of the officer was moved to General Funds. Mayor Polasek asked about the Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP) if that increase was for 1 year or the 3 years. Mr. Kaminski advised that the MAP funding is for the 3 years left in the CPS and the decision to allocate additional funding to MAP is an increased interest over the last year but leading up to this year, the program was not widely used. Councilwoman Soliz inquired on what exactly public infrastructure meant. Mr. Kaminski noted that it included; sidewalks, lighting, and parks to name a few. He also went on to say this CPS is a total projection for a 5 year window and currently we are in the 2nd year. There no public comments from the community. Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 32 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Needs Assessment

NA-05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview

The Needs Assessment section describes the housing and community development needs of Victoria’s low-and moderate-income population. It is a broad plan addressing the City’s housing and non-housing community development needs for the five-year period. The Program Year 2015–2020 Consolidated Plan represents the City of Victoria’s proposed plan for improving the quality of life for low- and moderate-income persons living within the City. The plan presents the current conditions and describes the type of activities the City will support using its annual federal allocation.

Within the Needs Assessment section it identifies barriers, challenges, and areas of unmet need as they relate to housing. Finally, this section will describe the needs of the city regarding the currently persons housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered 91.205(c)/91.305(c)) and housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness.

The Needs Assessment section of the Consolidated Plan evaluates the City’s current needs for assistance for the following income groups based on Area Median Income (AMI): Extremely Low Income (0-30% AMI), Very Low Income (30-50% AMI) and Low Income (50-80% AMI). AMI is based on the HUD Income Limits Documentation System figures and are subject to change on an annual basis. The following map of the City of Victoria shows the Low-to Moderate Income Census Block Groups.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 33 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

City of Victoria Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups, 2010

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 34 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) NA-10 Housing Needs Assessment - 24 CFR 91.205 (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs

The Consolidated Plan Housing Needs Assessment is a look at the City of Victoria’s needs for housing assistance throughout the community. The data provide an estimated number and type of families in need of housing assistance by income levels, tenure type, household type, and by housing problem (costs burdened, severely cost burdened, substandard housing, overcrowding, or geographic concentration of racial/ethnic groups). This section also integrates needs determined from consultation and public outreach. This section of the Consolidated Plan details the characteristics of the City of Victoria's households and housing stock. It includes the following sections that each consist of a summary of housing need characteristics.

1. Demographics; 2. Number of Households; 3. Housing Needs with one Housing Problems; 4. Housing Needs with one or more severe Housing Problems; 5. Costs Burden >30%; 6. Costs Burden >50%; 7. Crowding (More than One Person per Room); 8. Additional Housing Needs Narrative.

Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2013 % Change Population 60,603 63,571 5% Households 24,192 23,590 -2% Median Income $36,829.00 $46,765.00 27% Table 5 - Housing Needs Assessment Demographics

Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2009-2013 ACS (Most Recent Year)

Demographic Overview

In Table 5 above, shows the population, number of households, median income for the base year and the most recent year, then calculates the percentage of change. This data indicates an overall population increase from 60,603 in the year 2000 to 62,322 in the 2011 American Community Survey (ACS), a 3% increase in population.

The household demographics for 2000 were 22,045 and increased to 23,508, a 7% increase in households. The median income saw an increase from 36,829 to 44,803, a 22% increase in median income.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 35 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Number of Households Table

0-30% >30-50% >50-80% >80-100% >100% HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI Total Households 2,285 2,905 3,555 2,460 12,385 Small Family Households 660 1,440 1,230 1,095 6,465 Large Family Households 425 195 255 290 1,115 Household contains at least one person 62-74 years of age 450 400 670 410 2,555 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older 285 465 695 370 1,005 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger 745 1,075 584 785 1,300 Table 6 - Total Households Table Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Number of Household Overview

As shown in Table 6 above, Number of Households, the largest number of households is in the greater than 100% HAMFI group with 11,985 households. (2,515) households are in the 0-30% HAMFI group. This means that approximately (2,515) or 11% of all households in the City of Victoria are below 30% of HAMFI and >30-50% is also at 11%. The highest percentage of low-income households is in the >50-80% HAMFI which is 17% of total households.

Small family households are households that have a family with two to four members. The largest number of small family households resides in the greater than 100% HAMFI group (6,340). Only (815) small family households reside in the 0-30% HAMFI group, which is 8% of all small family households.

Large family households are households with families with five or more members. Again, the largest number of large family households resides in the greater than 100% HAMFI group (1,110). Among the income groups below 80% HAMFI, there is a relatively even distribution of large family households in the >30-50% and >50-80% HAMFI’s. However the second largest number of large family households resides in the 0-30% HAMFI group (360) which is 16% of the total large family households.

Data was also provided on households that contain at least one person considered to be senior. The data suggests that among income groups, there is an even distribution of households containing a person over the age of 62 except for the >50-80% (720) which is 17% of the total. The largest number of households with at least one person 62-74 years of age is within the higher income households that are >100% HAMFI (2,345). Households between >100% HAMFI contain the largest number of households (950) with a person 75 years or older are in the highest low-income percentages of 0-80%. Both of the HAMFI’s between >30 -80% percentages percentage of the HAMFI’s are 17% and 23% respectively. These households have a high need for Subsistence Support Programs and Senior/Disabled services. Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 36 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Finally, the data provided illustrates the number of households with one or more children 6 years of age or younger. Among the household income groups identified, the largest number of children 6 years or younger reside in homes >100% HAMFI (1,200). The second largest number of households with children 6 years old or younger is within the >30-50% HAMFI group (920) which is 21% of total households.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 37 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 55 25 95 10 185 30 40 25 60 155 Severely Overcrowded - With >1.51 people per room (and complete kitchen and plumbing) 35 0 15 70 120 0 10 15 0 25 Overcrowded - With 1.01-1.5 people per room (and none of the above problems) 190 85 80 0 355 25 10 50 20 105 Housing cost burden greater than 50% of income (and none of the above problems) 850 1,015 140 15 2,020 425 220 180 25 850

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 38 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 170 645 910 110 1,835 125 220 545 275 1,165 Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) 80 0 0 0 80 35 0 0 0 35 Table 7 – Housing Problems Table Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Housing Needs Overview

As depicted in Table 7 above, the first housing need category, for rental and owner-occupied shows the housing needs for the rental properties are 3.5 times greater than the owner-occupied households within the City of Victoria. Substandard housing is defined as a household without hot and cold piped water, a flush toilet and a bathtub or shower, and kitchen facilities that lack a sink with piped water, a range or stove, or a refrigerator. There are (335) renter households identified that live in substandard housing and (95) owner households.

The second housing problem identified is households living in overcrowded conditions. There are two forms of overcrowding defined by HUD and identified and they are :

 Severely overcrowded is defined as a household having complete kitchens and bathrooms but housing more than 1.51 persons per room;  Overcrowded is defined as a household having complete kitchens and bathrooms but housing more than 1.01 to 1.5 persons per room.

As shown, there are (759) households experiencing some form of overcrowding. The rental households experience 90% more overcrowding than the owner-occupied households. Both the rental and owner- occupied households experience a greater percentage of households overcrowded with 1.01-1.5 people per room.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 39 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) The final housing problem identified is cost burden. Cost burden is a 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 payment, taxes, insurance, and utilities. Cost burden is broken into two categories based on severity: Severe housing cost burden greater than 50% of income and housing cost burden greater than 30% of income.

As shown in the table, regardless of renter or owner tenure, households within the 0%-30% AMI group are experiencing higher rates of severe housing cost burden which is greater than 50% of income than those households with higher incomes. (1925) renters and (940) owners are experiencing a severe housing cost burden greater than 50% of income. The households experiencing housing cost burden greater than 30% of income shows both distributions in the 50% to 80% AMI to be the highest need.

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% >30- >50- >80- Total 0- >30- >50- >80- Total AMI 50% 80% 100% 30% 50% 80% 100% AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Having 1 or more of four housing problems 1,130 1,120 330 95 2,675 480 285 270 105 1,140 Having none of four housing problems 325 900 1,510 1,205 3,940 235 595 1,445 1,055 3,330 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems 80 0 0 0 80 35 0 0 0 35 Table 8 – Housing Problems 2 Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Number of Households and Number of Housing needs

Table 8 above, shows the number of households with no housing problems, one or more housing problems, and negative income are shown by HUD Adjusted Median Family Income (HAMFI). The data source is the 2007-2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD. As the data reveals renters in the 0-30% AMI group experience the highest rate of one or more housing problems identified. A total of (1,365) renter households below 30% AMI, experience some form of housing problem. Among owner households, 0-30% AMI group have the highest number of

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 40 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) households (505) reported one or more of four housing problems. Additionally another large number of renter households (965) within the 30 50% AMI group reported one or more of four identified housing problems.

3. Cost Burden > 30%

Renter Owner 0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total 0-30% >30- >50- Total AMI AMI AMI AMI 50% 80% AMI AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 400 995 385 1,780 145 220 390 755 Large Related 300 115 70 485 34 10 20 64 Elderly 205 265 285 755 295 165 240 700 Other 350 365 400 1,115 130 55 80 265 Total need by 1,255 1,740 1,140 4,135 604 450 730 1,784 income Table 9 – Cost Burden > 30% Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Cost Burden >30%

Table 9 above, shows the number of households with housing cost burdens greater than 30% of income, by household type, tenure, and household income (expressed as a percentage of Area Median Income AMI)). The data source is the 2007-2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD. Households are broken into four categories:

1. Small related – Family households with two to four related members; 2. Large related – Family households with five or more related members; 3. Elderly – Household whose head, spouse, or sole member is a person who is at least 62 years of age; 4. Other – All other households.

Approximately (1,705) of the Small Related households have a cost burden greater than 30% of income. For renter households, the 0%-30% AMI Income group has the highest number of households (1,474) with a cost burden greater than 30% of income. The total number of households experiencing >30% cost burden is (3,989) renter households and (2,004) owner households.

As shown in the table above, owner household category most experiencing cost burdens greater than 30% of incomes of (960) are Elderly owner households. Among owner households, 0%-30% and >50% - 80% AMI groups both have the highest number of households (695) each with a cost burden greater than 30% of income.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 41 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 4. Cost Burden > 50%

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 375 570 10 955 110 110 75 295 Large Related 255 55 0 310 4 0 10 14 Elderly 115 165 10 290 210 65 70 345 Other 285 245 125 655 115 45 25 185 Total need by 1,030 1,035 145 2,210 439 220 180 839 income Table 10 – Cost Burden > 50% Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Cost Burden >50%

Table 10, displays the number of households with housing cost burdens greater than 50% of income, by household type, tenure, and household income (expressed as a percentage of Area Median Income (AMI). The data source is the 2007-2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD Households are broken into four categories:

1. Small related – Family households with two to four related members; 2. Large related – Family households with five or more related members; 3. Elderly – Household whose head, spouse, or sole member is a person who is at least 62 years of age; 4. Other – All other households.

As shown in the category most experiencing cost burdens greater than 50% of renter incomes are Small Related households with (890) renter households. For renter households, the 0%-30% AMI Income group has the highest number of households (1,239) with a cost burden greater than 30% of income. The highest number of owner households with >50% cost burden are the Elderly totaling (410) owner households. The total number of household experiencing >50% -80% cost burdens are renter households (2,169) and (904) owner households.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 42 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 5. Crowding (More than one person per room)

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 Single family households 225 75 55 70 425 10 10 15 4 39 Multiple, unrelated family households 40 10 35 0 85 15 10 55 15 95 Other, non-family households 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total need by 265 85 90 70 510 25 20 70 19 134 income Table 11 – Crowding Information – 1/2 Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Crowding

The Table 11 shown above, displays the number of households that are overcrowded, defined as households with more than one person per room, excluding bathrooms, porches, foyers, halls, or half- rooms. The data is displayed by household type, tenancy, and household income (expressed as a percentage of Area Median Income (AMI)). The data source is the 2007-2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD.

As shown in the table, overcrowding is most prevalent in single family renter households. Approximately (610) single family renter households experience overcrowding. For owners, overcrowding is most prevalent in Multiple, Unrelated Family households. There are (60) Multiple, Unrelated Family households experience overcrowding. When accounting for income, extremely low income 0%-30% renter households experience the highest number of crowded households with (250) households. Among owner-occupied households, the households with incomes between >50% and 80% AMI show (19) households with crowding issues. There is a total number of crowded households is (705) renter households and (79) owner households.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 43 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 Table 12 – Crowding Information – 2/2 Table 12 Crowding for households with children present contains no data. The CHAS data 2007-2011 contains information on households with one or more children 6 years old or younger. The statistics do not have a breakdown between renter and owner but do have stats with children present in households based on the Data Source different income categories which are as follows:0-30% HAMFI - 860 >30%-50% HAMFI - 920>50%-80% Comments: HAMFI - 795>80%-100% HAMFI - 505>100% HAMFI - 1,200

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

Based in the ACS 2007-2011 data illustrated in Table 12, there were 5,735 single person households determined by using the number of single male and female households. Using the estimated number of total small-family households (1-4 persons) the 10,685 households (HH) are applied to the single person households of 5,735 and that difference is used to determine an estimated number of single person households by HUD adjusted Median Family Income (HAMFI). The single-person HAMFI is then extrapolated as a percentage and applied to determine an approximate number of HH by HAMFI for each of the five (5) housing problem by HAMFI. These statistics are unable to provide a breakdown between renter or owner households.

Elderly and disabled single person households are the most in need of housing assistance. Physical limitations often prevent this population from completing home repairs necessary to maintain a safe and sanitary living environment. A high percentage of single female householder with children (2,033) and the elderly living alone (5,430) with (2,214) of those over 65 years of age have a higher cost burden due to fixed incomes, and which shows the relationship to the elevated need for utility assistance and subsistence programs to assist the seniors. Single-female head of households with children have high cost burdens due to not receiving child support and the inability to work full-time due to small children or a disability. These situations have higher probabilities to being unable to maintain a home and does not allow for more than just basic needs.

Limited affordable and accessible housing options further increase the need for housing assistance. To assist in providing affordable, decent owner-occupied housing in the City of Victoria, a 55-lot subdivision was developed for income eligible homebuyers called Swan Crossing subdivision. One of the priorities determined through the consultations was the need to continue homebuyer assistance. Currently the City is providing up to $5,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance and the lot at no cost for income-eligible homebuyers in Swan Crossing and $2,500 down payment and closing cost assistance throughout the City of Victoria.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 44 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) SINGLE PERSON HOUSEHOLDS WITH HOUSING PROBLEMS:

1. Standard Housing - Lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities: 0-30% HAMFI-59 HH, >30%-50% HAMFI-29-HH ; >50% -80% HAMFI- 72 HH 2. Households having 1 or more of four housing problems: 0-30% HAMFI-1004 HH, >30%-50% HAMFI -1309 HH; >50% -80% HAMFI -349 HH 3. Cost Burden >30% 0-30% HAMFI-381 HH, >30%-50% HAMFI -477 HH; >50% -80% HAMFI - 413 HH 4. Cost Burden >50% 0-30% HAMFI-328 HH, >30%-50% HAMFI -252 HH; >50% -80% HAMFI - 40 HH 5. Crowding: 0-30% HAMFI-110 HH, >30%-50% HAMFI -85 HH; >50% -80% HAMFI -75 HH

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.

There is no definitive information on the number of households in need of housing assistance who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking or data for victims of dating violence, sexual assault or stalking. Based on national statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence one in three women and one in four men will experience some form of domestic violence or sexual assault in their life time.

Mid-Coast Family Services, the only service provider for victims of Domestic Violence, served 269 women and 23 men in 2014. The housing assistance that was provided for the victims was the Mid- Coast Family Service Women Crisis Shelter assisting 233 women and their 113 children transitional housing and rapid rehousing of 36 persons. Housing assistance, be it safe shelter or other housing assistance due to escaping to separate living quarters cause them to be cost burdened. Many of the victims become renters as their purchase options are more limited due to having been or becoming low- to moderate-income with escape from their dangerous situation.

The number of disabled persons in the City of Victoria 18 years old and over is a total of 8,661 persons as shown in the 2009-2013 ACS data. Although there is no population total and type of families in need of housing assistance it is known that housing for the disabled is a high need and was often discussed in the consultations. Currently, the City of Victoria in coordination with Gulf Bend MMHR Center is building a new 32 unit Wellness Facility for severely handicapped residents. The facility will be opened in May 2015 and is almost at full capacity. This is a facility that is a great need in Victoria and one of the first few in the State of Texas.

What are the most common housing problems?

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 45 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) By far, the most common housing problem in the City of Victoria is cost burden. Nearly 9,066 low-to moderate income households within the City of Victoria are cost burdened and pay over 30% of their income toward housing. Of those households, more than 3,073 pay over 50% of their income towards housing directly relates to the lower the HAMFI the greater the number that are cost burdened. The renter population overall is more cost burdened than owner-occupied housing with a median gross rent of $741 and median owner-occupied mortgage of $733. This situation leaves families with little or no disposable income to allow for unexpected expenses that often include medical emergencies or car repairs. The higher the cost burden, the more likely a family will suffer from housing instability and an increased risk of eviction and/or becoming homeless.

The statistics state that are 3,828 households in the City of Victoria with 1 or more of the 4 housing problems with HAMFI of 0 to 80%. The lower the income, the greater the percent, pay over 30% of their income toward housing. Crowding and substandard housing (lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities) is also a problem, but not as significant when compared to the prevalence of cost burden.

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

Households earning less than 80% AMI are experiencing higher rates of cost burden than those households with higher incomes. More renters are experiencing cost burden than owners, especially those earning less than 30% AMI. Comparisons of cost burden by type of household show small related, elderly and other household types are more affected. The senior and disabled physical limitations and age make this population more susceptible to unexpected medical needs. In addition, this population frequently has fixed incomes that do not allow for more than just basic needs which show the great need for utility assistance and subsistence programs to assist the seniors.

Limited affordable and accessible housing options further increase the possibility of higher cost burdens. In turn the inability to maintain properties the City of Victoria’s CDBG program offers Neighborhood Development activities such as cleanups, code enforcement and demolition within low-to moderate income census block areas. All three (3) of these activities ranked in the top seven (7) activities with the highest priorities through the surveys during the consultation period. Programs such as Code Enforcement, Demolition and Neighborhood Clean-Ups are critical needs for Victoria to ensure that the properties, within the low-income census block groups, are safe and well-maintained. Code Enforcement and Neighborhood Clean-Ups are still high priority needs, but these activities will not be undertaken in the remaining years of the 2015-2019 CPS due to changes in HUD regulations and guidelines. Prior to the current fiscal year, the City allocated CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement Officer to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments. Revised HUD regulations require Code Enforcement activities to be leveraged with public and private improvements within CDBG-eligible Census block groups. The amount of leveraging required and the complexity associated with monitoring the leveraging activities made it impractical for the City to continue allocating CDBG funds for Code Enforcement activities. To continue

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 46 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Demolition/Clearance program.

Revised HUD regulations have also impacted the Neighborhood Clean-up activity, which is now classified as a Public Service Activity (PSA). PSAs are subject to a 15% cap, meaning only 15% of an annual CDBG allocation may be directed to PSAs. The City maximizes its 15% PSA cap to assist local social service organizations, which have a much more direct and beneficial impact on low/moderate income families and individuals than Neighborhood Clean-ups. Since we cannot increase our PSA allocation, the remaining reprogrammed funds will be redirected to Public Infrastructure Improvement activities to further the CPS goals of creating suitable living environments and increasing the accessibility and availability of sidewalks.

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

The Point-In-Time (PIT) Count was held on January 22, 2015. Of the 193 homeless individuals there were 82 unsheltered homeless persons living in cars, sheds, street and any other building not meant for habitation. The sheltered count consisted of 114 persons staying at Perpetual Help Home, Women’s Crisis Center, Salvation Army, Gateway for Families, and House of Dreams. As noted in many consultations two needs that are prominent in eviction beside unemployment and the ability to hold a job are mental health issues, addictions, and limited education. The Perpetual Help Home Center for Peace, assists (80) homeless and low-income women with Employment/Job Training services annually through a public service grant. Another imminent risk of the sheltered homeless or persons becoming unsheltered is mental health issues. Mental Health activities have been determined a priority issue in this Consolidated Plan and will be a new eligible Public Service activity to be funded.

Households that are cost burdened generally are linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness. The surveys showed the largest percent of reason persons were homeless was due to inability to pay rent or mortgage. The highest frequency of family/household makeup was the single individual which was 63.1% or 196 persons. The count also determined there were 74 children with either a two-parent household (9.1%) or a one-parent household (16.6%). The number of days they experience homelessness is estimated to be 6 months. The shelter types not available in the City of Victoria are for runaways, unaccompanied youth and families. Although there continues to be a need for these three types of shelters, there is also a high need for shelter beds serving men and shelter capacity for women and their children. These needs were identified during both the Point-in-Time (PIT) survey and during the Five Year Consolidated Plan’s citizen participation process through stakeholder meetings. Other needs identified during the citizen participation process included rental and utility assistance, self-sufficiency training, mental illness support services, and employment assistance.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 47 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Those with a cost burden of 50% or greater are the most likely to be at imminent risk of becoming homeless. This translates into 3,073 households in imminent risk of becoming homeless. As always, the need is greater than the dollars received for homeless prevention. Mid-Coast Family Services, Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESGP) was drastically cut in 2013. The ESGP dollars are primarily used for rapid-re-housing for our families who are experiencing homelessness which was 36 families in 2014. The City of Victoria will continue to provide funding for low to moderate income families who are either on the verge or who are facing homelessness as determined in the process as a high priority.

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:

The Point-In-Time (PIT) Count was held on January 22, 2015. Of the 193 homeless individuals there were 82 unsheltered homeless persons living in cars, sheds, street and any other building not meant for habitation. The sheltered count consisted of 114 persons staying at Perpetual Help Home, Women’s Crisis Center, Salvation Army, Gateway for Families, and House of Dreams. As noted in many consultations two needs that are prominent in eviction beside unemployment and the ability to hold a job are mental health issues, addictions, and limited education. The Perpetual Help Home Center for Peace, assists (80) homeless and low-income women with Employment/Job Training services annually through a public service grant. Another imminent risk of the sheltered homeless or persons becoming unsheltered is mental health issues. Mental Health activities have been determined a priority issue in this Consolidated Plan and will be a new eligible Public Service activity to be funded.

Households that are cost burdened generally are linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness. The surveys showed the largest percent of reason persons were homeless was due to inability to pay rent or mortgage. The highest frequency of family/household makeup was the single individual which was 63.1% or 196 persons. The count also determined there were 74 children with either a two-parent household (9.1%) or a one-parent household (16.6%). The number of days they experience homelessness is estimated to be 6 months. The shelter types not available in the City of Victoria are for runaways, unaccompanied youth and families. Although there continues to be a need for these three types of shelters, there is also a high need for shelter beds serving men and shelter capacity for women and their children. These needs were identified during both the Point-in-Time (PIT) survey and during the Five Year Consolidated Plan’s citizen participation process through stakeholder meetings. Other needs identified during the citizen participation process included rental and utility assistance, self-sufficiency training, mental illness support services, and employment assistance.

Those with a cost burden of 50% or greater are the most likely to be at imminent risk of becoming homeless. This translates into 3,073 households in imminent risk of becoming homeless. As always, the need is greater than the dollars received for homeless prevention. Mid-Coast Family Services, Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESGP) was drastically cut in 2013. The ESGP dollars are primarily used for rapid-re-housing for our families who are experiencing homelessness which was 36 families in

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 48 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 2014. The City of Victoria will continue to provide funding for low to moderate income families who are either on the verge or who are facing homelessness as determined in the process as a high priority.

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

The most recent homeless census, or annual point-in-time (PIT) survey, was conducted on January 22, 2015. Other housing characteristics contributing to a higher risk of homelessness include unemployment, ability to hold a job and rent affordability. The City is working with service providers in addition to the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition (VAHC) to better assess housing characteristics that have been linked with instability. Households that are cost burdened generally are linked with greater instability and an increased risk of homelessness.

Those with a cost burden of 50% or greater are the most likely to be at imminent risk of becoming homeless. This translates into 1,054 households in imminent risk of becoming homeless. Additionally, the cost-burden housing problem has the possibility of 3,989 renters and 2,004 owners who have a 30% or greater cost burden and may either move to housing that result in a larger cost burden, or become homeless. The 405 extremely low- and low-income households with at least one person 75 years or older are also in danger of becoming homeless or having to double-up with families or friends as options for affordable independent living decrease and assisted living is not affordable.

Discussion

The City of Victoria is actively engaged in housing activities. Current efforts are targeted at, increasing the supply of quality affordable housing and expanding homeownership opportunities. In particular, low-income households are naturally of concern when examining the match between housing prices and incomes, as they are most likely to have housing needs. Due to limited CDBG entitlement funding, the City of Victoria will continue to seek other housing rehabilitation grants such as the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) SNAP and AHP programs for the senior and/or disabled City of Victoria residents. The City of Victoria will also continue to fund down payment and Housing Initiative programs at Swan Crossing an affordable subdivision by providing lots and gap financing housing assistance to income-eligible homebuyers. As noted; affordable housing is a high need in the City of Victoria. Homes at Swan Crossing and Habitat for Humanity have helped many owner-occupied low-income but there continues to be a need assistance in both owner-occupied and rental properties.

Outside of the housing needs, the City is constantly upgrading and maintaining infrastructure but CDBG funding will be primarily utilized funding on parks improvement area benefits within low to moderate income census block groups that were emphasized as a high priority in the surveys and consultations. Improving parks in the CDBG eligible areas provides the areas with accessible venues for recreational activities, promotes health, wellbeing, community involvement and deter gang and drug activities. There are a number of parks in the low- to moderate income census block group areas, as shown in the attached map in which the City places a high priority on enhancing the facilities at the

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 49 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) parks. Additionally, sidewalk improvements including transit shelters were designated as high priorities through the consultation held for the Consolidated Plan to allow safer and more accessible pedestrian mobility.

The majority of the shelters are for specifically women and their children such as Women’s Crisis Center, Restoration House Ministries, and Perpetual Help Home for women who are homeless and/or being released from incarceration and additionally the newest shelter, the House of Dreams are all running at a full capacity on a daily basis. Further capacity issues were determined at the Salvation Army, the only men’s shelter also maintaining a full or at near full capacity on a nightly basis.

The need for public services is high in Victoria. The agencies providing services are constricted by limited resources. All of the current public services continued to receive high priority need ratings with additional needs identified such as mental health support services and community risk programs from the public and stakeholders. The primary public service goals of Victoria are to provide children and youth services, abused and neglected children services, provide supportive services for the homeless and special needs populations, utility assistance and community risk programs such as installation wheelchair ramps and fire alarms and fire prevention training. Other high priority public service needs are senior subsistence support services and senior and/or disabled services all were given priority due to the cost burdens for this sector of the population to also include critical needs such as Demolition Programs.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 50 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 disproportionately greater need based on racial or ethnic group can be measured by the differences of percent low- to moderate-income among the groups as well as the differences of housing units with problems by income among the groups. A disproportionately greater need exists when the members of racial or ethnic group at an income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10 percentage points or more) than the income level as a whole. The tables below show these comparisons and the discussion at the end explains the disparities. Again, as defined by HUD, housing problems include:

1. Substandard housing lacking complete plumbing facilities

2. Substandard housing lacking complete kitchen facilities

3. Overcrowded households with 1.01 to 1.5 people per room, excluding bathrooms, porches, foyers, halls, or halfâ¿Â•rooms

4. Households with housing cost burden greater than 30% of income

The Disproportionately Greater Needs: Housing Problems section covers the following:

1. Introduction

2. Disproportionately Greater Need—Housing Problems 0% 30% Area Median Income (AMI)

3. Disproportionately Greater Need—Housing Problems 30% •50% AMI

4. Disproportionately Greater Need—Housing Problems 50% 80% AMI

5. Disproportionately Greater Need—Housing Problems 80% 100% AMI

6. Discussion

Per the regulations at 91.205(b) (2), 91.305(b) (2), and 91.405, a grantee must provide an assessment for each disproportionately greater need identified. Although the purpose of these tables is to analyze the relative level of need for each race and ethnic category, the data also provide information for the jurisdiction as a whole that can be useful in describing overall need. The data source is the 2007 thru •2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 51 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 0%-30% of Area Median Income

Housing Problems Has one or more Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,895 275 115 White 625 80 60 Black / African American 210 40 40 Asian 25 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 1,035 150 14 Table 13 - Disproportionally Greater Need 0 - 30% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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 Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 2,275 630 0 White 635 235 0 Black / African American 85 35 0 Asian 15 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 1,380 360 0 Table 14 - Disproportionally Greater Need 30 - 50% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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%

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 52 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 50%-80% of Area Median Income

Housing Problems Has one or more Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 2,060 1,500 0 White 935 575 0 Black / African American 205 110 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 905 760 0 Table 15 - Disproportionally Greater Need 50 - 80% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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 Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 585 1,875 0 White 295 740 0 Black / African American 35 150 0 Asian 0 50 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 245 920 0 Table 16 - Disproportionally Greater Need 80 - 100% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 53 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Reviewing 0-30% table above, summarized from the individual tables jurisdiction as a whole identified 87.1% of households with housing problems. It shows that the percent of Asian at 100% of the jurisdiction as a whole, the highest disparity in the extremely low-income although the total number of households was 20. While Hispanic households had 90.3% households, Black/African Americans were at 87.5% and White was at 81.8% of the jurisdiction as a whole exemplifying no disproportionately greater need in comparison all extremely low-income households with one or more of four housing problems.

>30-50% of Area Median Income

The >30-50% table with one or more of the four housing problems summarizations again showed Asian at 100% with a total of 35 households having a disparity of 19.30%. The Black/African American disparity was 90.9% that is 10.20% greater than the jurisdiction as a whole. The table showed Hispanics were 81.6% and White at 75.3% of the jurisdiction as a whole of households with housing problems.

>50-80% Area Median Income

The >50-80% table with one or more of the four housing problems showed no disproportionately greater need in housing problems who have one or more of four housing problems. The jurisdiction as a whole was at 50.1% households with White at 55.7%, Black at 43.5% and Hispanic at 47.5% with one or more of four housing problems.

>80-100% Area Median Income

The >80-100% table shows again, no disproportionately greater need in housing problems with the jurisdiction as a whole at 30.1% of households have one or more of four housing problems. White households showed 38.1%, Hispanic households at 25.3% and Black/African American at 16.4% households with one or more housing problems. There are 7,055 households that have one or more of four housing problems. The calculations depicts 78% of low-income households have one or more housing problems.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 54 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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

As noted in the previous section, a disproportionately greater need exists when the members of racial or ethnic group at an income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10 percentage points or more) than the income level as a whole. Per the regulations at 91.205(b) (2), 91.305(b) (2), and 91.405, a grantee must provide an assessment for each disproportionately greater need identified.

Severe housing problems include:

• Severely overcrowded households with more than 1.5 persons per room, not including

bathrooms, porches, foyers, halls, or half •rooms;

• Households with severe cost burden of more than 50% of income.

This section includes:

• Introduction

• Disproportionately Greater Need—Severe Housing Problems 0% •30% AMI;

• Disproportionately Greater Need—Severe Housing Problems 30% •50% AMI;

• Disproportionately Greater Need—Severe Housing Problems 50% •80% AMI;

• Disproportionately Greater Need—Severe Housing Problems 80% 100% AMI.

Discussion

This section has four tables that capture the number of severe housing problems by income, race, and ethnicity. Each table provides data for a different income level (0–30%, 30–50%, 50–80%, and 80–100% AMI). The data source is the 2007-2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 55 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 0%-30% of Area Median Income

Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,610 560 115 White 545 155 60 Black / African American 115 130 40 Asian 25 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 920 275 14 Table 17 – Severe Housing Problems 0 - 30% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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 Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,405 1,495 0 White 385 480 0 Black / African American 65 59 0 Asian 15 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 795 950 0 Table 18 – Severe Housing Problems 30 - 50% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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%

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 56 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 50%-80% of Area Median Income

Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 600 2,955 0 White 270 1,240 0 Black / African American 35 280 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 300 1,365 0 Table 19 – Severe Housing Problems 50 - 80% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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 Has none of the Household has of four housing four housing no/negative problems problems income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 200 2,260 0 White 85 955 0 Black / African American 0 185 0 Asian 0 50 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 105 1,060 0 Table 20 – Severe Housing Problems 80 - 100% AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

*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%

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 57 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Discussion

0-30% of Area Median Income

As shown in Table 13, households in the 0% •30% AMI category, 73.9% have one or more of four severe housing problems. In terms of disproportionate need, the Asian group (100.0%) with 20 households has a rate that is 26.1 percentage points higher than the income level as a whole. Looking at the jurisdiction as a whole, the calculations showed the Hispanic group at (76.3%), Black/African American at (60%) and White at (74.4%) having one or more of four severe housing problems.

>30-50% of Area Median Income

Table 14 illustrates the households in the 30%â¿Â•50% AMI category, 47.6% have one or more of four severe housing problems. In terms of disproportionate need, again showed the Asian households at (100%) with a total of 35 households with a rate that is 50.1 percentage points higher than the income level as a whole. It should be noted that Black/ African American and White households have a rates of 34.4.8% and 35.3% respectively of households experiencing severe housing problems Also the Hispanic group showed (52.8%) of households had severe housing problems.

>50-80% Area Median Income

Table 15 reflects all households in the 50% •80% AMI category, 16% have one or more of four severe housing problems. No racial or ethnic groups have rates that are 10 percentage points higher than the income level as a whole.

>80-100% Area Median Income

Shown in Table 16, all households in the 80% •100% AMI category, 12.2% have one or more of four severe housing problems. In terms of disproportionate need, there is not a group with a disproportionate need when compared to the overall housing problems percentage for the 80% •100% AMI income group.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 58 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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:

A general rule used by HUD states that households should spend no more than 30% of their incomes on housing. If households are spending more than this amount, they are considered “cost burdened,” or “overpaying for housing.” Lack of affordable entry-level housing contributes to a high cost burden among low income households.

Again, a disproportionately greater need exists when the members of racial or ethnic group at an income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10 percentage points or more) than the income level as a whole. Per the regulations at 91.205(b) (2), 91.305(b) (2), and 91.405, a grantee must provide an assessment for each disproportionately greater need identified. This section includes:

1. Introduction

2. Disproportionately Greater Need—Housing Cost Burden

3. Discussion

The cost burden information for the City of Victoria and each racial and ethnic group, including no cost burden (less than 30%), cost burden (30% thru •50%), severe cost burden (more than 50%), and no/negative income. The data source is the 2007 thru •2011 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data developed by HUD.

As the data suggests that none of the households are cost burdened or severely cost burdened within their current housing situation of (11,524) households in the jurisdiction as a whole. There are (3,120) households severely cost burdened or >50% in which Asian households have the highest number of severe cost burdened which is 26.1% or 55 households. There are (1,615) Hispanic households at 18%, Black/African American households are third with 13% (225) households then White is 9.7% (1,185) households. Of the (3,360) households that are cost burdened in the jurisdiction as a whole. As noted earlier (1,790) or 20% of Hispanic households have the highest cost burden of 30-50%. The Black/African American households are 18.8% or (325) households and White households are 15.3% or (1,880) households that are 30-50% cost burdened.

Housing Cost Burden

Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) Jurisdiction as a whole 16,360 3,995 3,120 115

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 59 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) White 9,080 1,705 1,175 60 Black / African American 975 355 180 40 Asian 195 24 40 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 0 Hispanic 5,900 1,880 1,575 14 Table 21 – Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens AMI Data 2009-2013 CHAS Source:

Discussion:

The Greater Need Housing Cost Burdens (Table 17) depicts there is no one race/ethnic group that has a proportionately higher rate of housing cost burden between 30% and 50% or greater than 50% and none disproportionately impacted by increased housing cost burdens.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 60 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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?

As indicated in the previous sections, several racial or ethnic groups were identified as having a disproportionately greater housing need in comparison to the income level as a whole. As detailed below, these include the White, Asian, Black/African American and Hispanic racial or ethnic groups.

The Black/African American racial or ethnic group experiences a disproportionately greater housing problem need in terms of the following:

 Housing problems in the 30%-50% AMI category (90.9% versus 80.7% household).

The Asian racial or ethnic group experiences a disproportionately greater housing problem need in terms of the following:

 Housing problems in the 0%-30% AMI category (100% versus 87.1% households);  Housing problems in the 30%-50% AMI category (100% versus 80.7% households);  Severe Housing problems in the 0%-30% AMI category (100% versus 74% households);  Severe Housing problems in the 30%-50% AMI category (100% versus 47.6% households).

In terms of housing problems as a whole, there are (7,055) households experiencing one or more of the four identified housing problems. Of these households 35.9% are White households, 7.7% are Black/African American, .07% are Asian households and 46.5% are Hispanic households. White and Hispanic households account for 82.4% of all households experiencing one or more of the four identified housing problems.

In terms of severe housing problems as a whole, there are (4,050) households experiencing one or more of the four identified housing problems. Of these households 0%-100% median income with severe housing problems there are (1,355) White, (280) are Black/African American, (55) are Asian households and (2,255) are Hispanic households. The Hispanic households are the largest number of households accounting for 55.6% of all households experiencing one or more of the four identified housing problems.

Within the disproportionately greater need in housing cost burden there are no racial or ethnic groups that have rates that are 10 percentage points higher than the jurisdiction income level as a whole.

Households experiencing severe housing cost burden >50 % and severe housing problems of one or more of four affect (7,170) households as a whole in the City of Victoria.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 61 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) In conclusion, the percentages of all racial or ethnic groups identified as being affected by one or more of the four housing problems were as follows: Whites 33.5%, Black/African American 38.3%, Asian 51.5% and Hispanic 45.5%.

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

Based on input and data received through an extensive citizen participation process, the housing needs not identified are:

 ADA accessibility such as ramps for the senior and disabled  Availability of affordable rental housing units – particularly for low and very low-income renters  Demolition and clearance of substandard buildings  Community Risk Reduction Programs such as Fire Safety Programs  Increased Shelter Capacity  Special Needs Population Facilities  Subsistence Programs (Eviction Prevention, Meal-on-Wheels & Kid’s Backpack Program)

Other needs identified that are not considered a housing activity

 Code Enforcement  Neighborhood Clean-Ups  Utility assistance – both for homeowners and rental properties  Youth & Children Programs  Abused & Neglected Children  Employment & Job training services for the homeless and At-Risk homeless  Mental Health & Wellness Services for the disabled and homeless  Subsistence Support Programs  Senior and/or disabled services  Sidewalks Improvements  Covered Transit Shelters  Park improvements  Homeless & At-Risk homeless prevention services  Youth Centers

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

As shown in the 2010 Census data for Minority Concentrations the Map displays eleven (11) Census Tracts that have a significant concentration of minority populations which are:

• Census Tract 601.1 – 57.31%

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 62 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) • Census Tract 601.3 – 55.81%

• Census Tract 602.4– 79.49%

• Census Tract 201.2 – 79.28%

• Census Tract 201.1 – 68.04%

• Census Tract 202.1 – 71.18%

• Census Tract 202.2– 69.2%

• Census Tract 301.2 – 93.21%

• Census Tract 301.1 –74.07%

• Census Tract 302.2—52.02%

• Census Tract 302.1 –77.61 %

Data for other census tracts in the City of Victoria did not show any additional significant concentrations of minority populations. Of the 11 Block Groups with a significant proportion of low and moderate income persons, five fall within Census Tracts with major concentrations of (74%-100%) minority populations. Therefore approximately 11% of the City’s Block Groups have a major concentration of both minorities and low and moderate income persons. Of the City’s 45 Block Groups (U.S. Census 2010), 42.2% (19) have a low and moderate income percentage of 52.02% or greater. This means that there is a significant portion of low and moderate income persons concentrated in a little over two-fifths of the City. Most of the minority concentrated Block Groups are in the central and southern portions of the City of Victoria, Texas.

According to the 2009-2013 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimate data, the City of Victoria, Texas total population was 63,571 and the demographics consist of (27,019) or 42.5% White, (1,024)1.6% Asian, (30,421) 47.8% Hispanic, (5,412) 8.5% Black /African American, American Indian/Alaskan Native (2,072) 3.2%, and (4,715) 7.3% other populations. From the map above, it can be seen that several areas reflect a concentration of minorities, especially considering the City’s high Hispanic population. The total percentage of minority population is 57.5% in the City of Victoria, Texas. Many homes were originally purchased by lower-income minority residents and have been passed down from generation to generation keeping it a predominately minority neighborhood with older, smaller homes.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 63 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) NA-35 Public Housing – 91.205(b) Introduction

The Consolidated Plan must provide a concise summary of the needs of public housing residents. Information is collected through consultations with the public housing agency or agencies located within the City’s boundaries. The Public Housing portion of this report contains the following sections:

1. Introduction

2. Totals in Use

3. Characteristics of Residents

4. Race of Residents

5. Ethnicity of Residents

6. Additional Narrative

Housing Authority of the City of Victoria (VHA) is a corporation created for the purpose of administering housing programs for low income persons. The operations of the VHA are funded through annual appropriations provided by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The data is from surveys done with the VHA. The VHA administers 320 Tenant Based Rental Assistance vouchers (First Choice), which allow low income persons to rent privately owned houses or apartments dispersed throughout the community. In addition to public housing and Section 8 programs, the VHA also administers other special housing programs designed to assist specific demographic groups, such as persons who are senior and persons with disabilities. The VHA also operates 314 public housing units which are located in various parts of the City of Victoria.

VHA does not receive local funding and operates independent of the City of Victoria. It is overseen by a Board of Commissioners, a five member board that provides governance and administrative control of the Authority’s programs. VHA also has a Resident Council, made up of public housing and Section 8 participants. VHA operates under a HUD approved Five-Year Action Plan and subsequent annual action plans. The types

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 64 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) of housing are: 57, or 17% of the units are one bedroom; 111 (35%) are two bedroom; 131 (41%) are three bedroom and 24 (7%) are 4 bedroom. Of those 321 units, 17 (5%) units are specifically reserved for senior residents and 18 (5%) units are accessible to persons with disabilities. The units currently consist of nine complexes located throughout the city. There are currently 198 households on the VHA waiting list with 140 waiting for a 1-bedroom, 41 for a 2-bedroom, 15 for a 3-bedroom and 2 for a 4-bedroom. Those waiting for 1-bedroom units have the most difficulty in finding available units in the market. The Victoria Housing Authority also has a non-profit housing corporation which owns the Landing Apartments. This 100-unit complex is located at the southeast corner of Mallette Drive and Briggs Boulevard. At the Landing, 35 of the units are set-aside for low-income and very low-income families.

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 0 314 320 0 320 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)

Total In Use - First Choice Voucher and Public Housing

The Table 18 displays the number of tenant based vouchers (First Choice) and units by public housing (PH) program type. According to the data below, both program types are comparatively similar with 313 in PH and 304 vouchers currently in use by tenant based voucher program called First Choice. There are zero Special Purpose Vouchers in use in the City of Victoria, Texas.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 65 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 11,276 12,345 0 12,345 0 0 Average length of stay 0 0 2 4 0 4 0 0 Average Household size 0 0 2 2 0 2 0 0 # Homeless at admission 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 # of Elderly Program Participants (>62) 0 0 58 86 0 86 0 0 # of Disabled Families 0 0 32 86 0 86 0 0 # of Families requesting accessibility features 0 0 314 320 0 320 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)

Characteristics of Residents

The Table 19 displays the characteristics of public housing residents by public housing program type. When analyzing the data there are several characteristics that correlate with a corresponding program type. When looking at Average Annual Income, the average income for public housing residents for all programs is very low and all fall into a small range. The lowest average income is $11,276 and the highest average

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 66 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) income is $12,345. The number of disabled families getting assistance totals 175. In addition, there are 8 families Housing Choice voucher holders and 95 families requesting Public Housing with accessibility features showing a high number of disabled families that are in need of housing assistance/vouchers and housing accessibility.

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 0 266 246 0 246 0 0 0 Black/African American 0 0 48 72 0 72 0 0 0 Asian 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 American Indian/Alaska Native 0 0 0 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)

Race of Residents

As shown in Table 20, it displays the racial composition of residents for each public housing program. The data in the table shows the number of residents utilizing these program types who are considered Black/African American (117) and White (495) and Asian and American Indian/Alaska Native both with (2).

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 67 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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 0 198 168 0 168 0 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 116 152 0 152 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 Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center)

Ethnicity of Residents

Table 20 represents the ethnic composition of residents for each public housing program with “Hispanic (124) and “Not Hispanic” (190). The ethnic group defined as “Hispanic” utilized 160 of the vouchers “Not Hispanic” utilized (144) vouchers.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 68 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants on the waiting list for accessible units:

Table 21 portrays the number of disabled families currently receiving assistance is 175 families. This data shows that a high number of disabled families are in need of both housing assistance/vouchers and accessible units. Additionally, 158 program participants are elderly (>62 years). Currently, there are (18) Section 504 units of public housing out of a total of (313) units. The accessible units are occupied at this time. Currently the VHA does not participate in the Special Purpose Vouchers and there are 103 (8- Housing Choice and 95 Public Housing) residents on the waiting list that have disabilities.

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

The greatest need for residents of public housing and Tennant Based Rental (First Choice) holders are comparatively the same that need housing opportunities, in general. Fifty-four percent of the Housing Authority of the City of Victoria’s Public Housing Units and vouchers (333) are occupied by the senior or handicapped/disabled and their families. This can be limiting to the many families who are on the waiting list. There is also no housing that is specifically available to assist veterans. With the Section 8 Waiting List closed as of May 1, 2015 due to the large number of applicants, there is a pressing need for more public housing opportunities in general. All populations, including veterans, the senior, the disabled, and families in need of available public housing are the most vulnerable of populations. The most immediate needs of HCV residents are finding suitable dwelling units, particularly 1-bedroom units. The VHA reported the most immediate need for all applicants is a decent, safe, sanitary and affordable place to live.

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

Similar to the needs of residents of public housing, the general population is lacking in housing options that meet the needs of different populations. Contributing factors include a lack of job skills, consistent and/or low income. For the City of Victoria, Public Housing and First Choice tenant based voucher holders, as well as applicants on waiting list are typically cost burdened and many are senior and/or disabled. Due to their limited income, their housing needs include affordability, availability of assistance, accessibility and improvements for the senior and/or disabled. The City of Victoria accesses annually the Federal Home Loan Bank program for the senior and/or disabled needing housing assistance. Currently there are 118 households requesting housing accessibility or minor repair assistance.

The need for quality affordable housing exists throughout the population at large and is more pronounced among the senior and disabled. The retrofitting of housing to allow for accessibility is costly. Financial resources to complete such modifications are often not available to private landlords. TDHCA Weatherization programs are available to both owners and rental properties through Community Action Committee in Victoria, Texas. There are 18 residents applying for the HOME Rehabilitation Assistance Program that will be submitted to TDHCA when the reservation system opens to accept new

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 69 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) applications for housing reconstruction. This program will demolish the existing home and rebuild on the homeowners existing property.

Additional affordable rental housing is available through the tax-credit projects with rents based on a sliding scale. Five low-income housing tax credit properties serve Victoria. All built within the last 15 years, these multi-family residential complexes consist of 660 units each with affordable housing programs. The complexes do not receive project-based vouchers nor do they receive any federal housing subsidies. The complexes offer 1, 2 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and also include the median family income (MFI) set-aside percentages as follows:

Tom Ninke Senior Village – 80 units (100% are low-income and reserved for senior and/or disabled residents)

 (68) 1-bedroom units handicapped accessible units  (12) 2-bedroom units handicapped accessible units

Mockingbird Lane Apts. - 160 units (All units reserved for low-income)

 50% MFI - (48) 2-bedroom units  60% MFI - (96) 2, 3 or 4-bedroom units  60% MFI - (16) 2or 3-bedroom handicapped accessible units

Creekstone Ranch Apts.- 160 units (75% of units reserved for low-income units)

 50% MFI - (36) 2 or 3-bedroom units  50% MFI - (13) 2 or 3-bedroom handicapped accessible units  60% MFI - (66) 2, 3 or 4-bedroom units  60% MFI - (5) 2 or 3-bedroom handicapped accessible units

Caney Run Estates - 116 units (All units reserved for low-income)

 30% MFI - (20) 2 or 3-bedroom units  30% MFI - (3) 2-bedroom handicapped accessible units  40% MFI - (6) 2 or 3-bedroom units  40% MFI - (4) 2-bedroom handicapped accessible units  50% MFI - (22) 2 or 3-bedroom units  50% MFI - (1) 2-bedroom handicapped accessible unit  60% MFI - (60) 2 or 3-bedroom units

Pinnacle Point -144 units (All units reserved for low-income)

 40% MFI - (21) 2 or 3-bedroom units

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 70 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)  40% MFI - (4) 2 or 3-handicapped accessible units  50% MFI - (11) 2 or 3-bedroom units  50% MFI - (1) 2 bedroom handicapped accessible units  60% MFI - (102) 2 or 3-bedroom units  60% MFI - (5) 2 or 3-bedroom handicapped accessible units

Discussion

Additional Narrative

The VHA owns and operates 8 separate housing complexes as well as scattered site rentals which are located in various parts of the City of Victoria. The VHA also administers 314 Section 8 vouchers which allow low income persons to rent privately owned houses or apartments dispersed throughout the community. The Section 8 waiting list is closed as of May 1, 2015, and no new applications are being accepted for the program.

The VHA’s Mary Kenzler Villa has 18 accessible units and Lova III which has 17 units are the only complexes that serve the senior citizens. The VHA families that qualify for disabled units must meet the criteria that the head of household is disabled or the spouse. Families identified as “Families with Disabilities” have a high need for First Choice tenant based vouchers. The number of disabled families currently receiving assistance is (175) households, and while at the same time there are (8 Section 8- Housing Choice and 95 Public Housing) for a total of 103 households requesting accessible units with (198) families on the Public Housing waiting list which has closed as of May 1, 2015.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 71 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) NA-40 Homeless Needs Assessment – 91.205(c) Introduction:

To fully understand the nature and extent of homelessness, it is necessary to realize that the people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless are as varied as the general population. Regardless of other difficulties, the lack of basic needs (housing, food, clothing, and medical care) is common to all homeless people. Some homeless people require limited assistance in order to regain permanent housing and self- sufficiency. Others, especially people with physical or mental disabilities, require more intensive, long-term support. The following section defines homelessness, as well as who is at risk of homelessness, and what we know about the demographics and characteristics of homeless people in Victoria. It should be noted that any homeless census is an undercount, because it is impossible to count and locate every homeless person.

Meeting homelessness challenges in City of Victoria is a collaborative effort comprising numerous individuals, agencies and organizations. Victoria Area Homeless Coalition and Mid-Coast Family Services are the lead agencies for collecting homeless data for the Continuum of Care from numerous agencies that meet every month. All counts and surveys conducted by the Coalition utilize the counting guidelines and surveys developed by the Texas Homeless Network. There are numerous factors that contribute to homelessness. The data reflects the characteristics, factors, or situations that are contributing to an individual or family’s homelessness. Results from the 2015 Homeless Count enumeration indicate that there are 114 sheltered homeless and 82 unsheltered homeless. The majority of the sheltered homeless and unsheltered are chronic homeless single adults. No unaccompanied youth were counted during the Point in Time (PIT) Count. Approximately 58% of the special populations enumerated were sheltered.

Our community uses the definition for homeless included in the McKinney Act of 1994. According to this Act, a person is considered homeless if he/she “lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate night-time residence and has a primary night-time residence that is:

 A supervised publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide temporary living accommodations,  An institution that provides a temporary residence for individuals intended to be institutionalized, or  A public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings.

Several factors contribute to an individual or family becoming “at-risk” of homelessness. Overcrowding in housing is a strong indicator of future homelessness. Individuals and families who are overcrowded or “doubled-up” with friends and family are not considered homeless. However,

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 72 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) these individuals are very likely to become homeless in the near future. In May 2015, KIDZconnection, a Victoria Independent School District program serving children and their families in transitional living situations, reported 900 children were either homeless or doubled up in overcrowded housing. Of those 900, 748 were in junior high school or less and 152 of them were in high school and of those 152 there are 52 students that are unaccompanied youth.

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) 21 51 237 237 118 201 Persons in Households with Only Children 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons in Households with Only Adults 61 63 278 278 139 204 Chronically Homeless Individuals 42 28 115 115 50 365 Chronically Homeless Families 2 8 43 43 30 365 Veterans 6 2 10 10 5 365 Unaccompanied Child 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons with HIV 0 0 2 2 0 285 Table 26 - Homeless Needs Assessment

Data Source Comments: Data Source: Mid-Coast Family Services and Victoria Area Homeless Coalition PIT count

Indicate if the homeless population Has No Rural Homeless is:

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 73 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018) 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):

Based on the 2015 Point –In- Time enumeration, there are 70 chronically homeless, 8 veterans, and 17 chronic substance abusers and 28 with serious mental illness, who may remain unsheltered for most of the year, but may enter emergency shelters for short periods of time during the heat of the summer or cold of the winter. The persons with mental illness have decreased by 55% from the prior year that reported 51 persons. Women with children tend to remain in shelter or transitional housing for a longer time than individual adults and tend to have fewer recurrences of homelessness. Of the 10 chronically homeless families with children 2 of them were unsheltered during the point in time survey.

According to the PIT data, the median number of days that adult individuals were homeless on average was 176 days. During the PIT count there were no unaccompanied children surveyed. Victoria Independent School District reported that for the current 2014-2015 school year according to the HUD’s McKinney Vento guidelines there were 152 homeless children and of those 52 of them are unaccompanied youth.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 74 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Nature and Extent of Homelessness: (Optional)

Race: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional)

White 71 52 Black or African American 22 16 Asian 1 0 American Indian or Alaska Native 2 1 Pacific Islander 0 0 Ethnicity: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional)

Hispanic 47 34 Not Hispanic 54 39 Data Source Comments: Data Source: Mid-Coast Family Services and Victoria Area Homeless Coalition PIT count

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

There are 1,865 families that are extremely low-income households with at least one severe housing problem who may become homeless. 114 are sheltered but may leave shelter without a stable income to support independent living and 82 who are unsheltered. There are 2,061 households that will require housing assistance based on the extremity of their current housing condition.

HUD defines a person as chronically homeless if they have been homeless for one year or longer, or have had four or more episodes of homelessness within the past three years and have a disabling condition. National studies have found that when all costs are factored in, chronically homeless persons account for approximately 50% of the system’s resources. This percent of expenditure is based on a nationwide estimate that 10% of all homeless persons are considered as chronically homeless. In the City of Victoria, the percentage of chronically homeless persons is higher than the nationwide estimated average. The persons counted during the 2015 PIT, 36.7% of those surveyed, or 72 individuals, met the HUD definition of chronically homeless. Of the72 chronically homeless, 44 were unsheltered individuals and 6 were veterans. No data was recorded for the “number of persons becoming and exiting homelessness each year” and the median length of homelessness is 6 months with a range of 4 days-30 years persons experiencing homelessness.

The number of days that persons experience homelessness varies based on a variety of factors. The season and climate play a factor, as well as the time of the month, and other individual factors. Some chronically homeless individuals may find temporary shelter throughout the year, but many do experience homelessness on a full •time basis.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 75 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Families

Persons in households comprised a large segment of the overall homeless population counted on January22, 2015. There were 48 total households accounted for and 30 of which were households that were comprised of households with at least one child and one adult.

Veterans

Veterans accounted for a small portion of the homeless population. Only 8 veterans were counted; 6 were unsheltered and 2 were sheltered. This is an increase from 2014 of 2 veterans that were included in the homeless population.

Unaccompanied Youth

There was no unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness during the 2015 PIT count but Victoria Independent School currently has 52 registered high school students that are on their own and not with family.

Families In Need of Housing Assistance

Of the 187 homeless households, 48 were persons in households with adults and children. There is no specific data if any of the households were unsheltered. The number of days they experience homelessness is estimated to be 176 days. A number of organizations in the City of Victoria provide temporary and transitional housing for the families in need of assistance at the House of Dreams, Salvation Army, Mid-Coast’s Women’s Crisis Center and the permanent supportive housing for Perpetual Help Home, Gateway, Hope Net and Next Step.

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

Extrapolating from the extremely low-income households with a severe housing problem, it can be estimated that 8.8% of the homeless are African American, 54.7% are Hispanic, 1% are Asian and 35.3% are non-Hispanic white. These numbers are not available to determine the race and ethnicity of the sheltered and unsheltered.

Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness.

The majority of persons that were homeless during the PIT count were sheltered (114 sheltered, 82 unsheltered); however adult only households remain at a much higher rate than all other household makeup. Approximately 75% or 6 of the 8 homeless veterans are unsheltered and 40 victims of domestic violence are sheltered. However, a higher percent of those who are chronically homeless,

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chronic substance abusers and/or are seriously mentally ill tend to remain unsheltered than sheltered. Approximately 61% of chronically homeless persons are unsheltered.

It is important to note that many of the City of Victoria’s beds are targeted to specific populations and those beds are as follows:

Salvation Army 28 beds for Men (Chronic, Stepping Stone, Workman homeless men) emergency shelter;

Women’s Crisis Center 34 beds for women who are dealing with domestic violence, and homelessness and a separate area for 2 men;

Perpetual Help Home 23 beds and 17 rooms for homeless women and their children is transitional shelter;

Faith Family House of Dreams 17 beds and 12 rooms for homeless women and their children is transitional shelter;

Restoration House 6 beds for treatment of substance abuse for women and their children;

Mid-Coast Family Services Gateway Project for 18 chronic homeless men;

Mid-Coast Family Services Next Step for 9 families for permanent supportive housing;

Mid-Coast Family Services HopeNet for 9 women and their children for permanent supportive housing;

Mid-Coast Family Services 8 beds for emergency shelter of individuals or families.

TOTAL 154 BEDS

Discussion:

Although the homeless population has consistently grown over the last few years, the count cannot be based on that scenario only. Over the years the volunteers and non-profit agencies have worked together more closely with each other through the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition. This in turn has provided the capability of consistently sheltering the homeless during the cold and providing as many services as possible with many agencies all working for the same goal. This effort has allowed the development of greater trust and cooperation between agencies and the homeless.

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In the City of Victoria there are three types of homeless shelters available: emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. These shelters are provided by four separate agencies. Emergency Shelter is provided by Salvation Army. Perpetual Help Home, Mid-Coast Family Services, and Faith Family House of Dreams provide transitional shelter. Mid-Coast Gateway, Hope Net and Next Step though the CoC provides permanent supportive housing. There is an additional shelter called Rushing Wind that has recently begun sheltering the homeless during cold weather on a regular basis. During this time the numbers of homeless that Rushing Wind has provided services for is undetermined and is a fluctuating number of individuals who utilize the shelter throughout the year. Rushing Wind has also recently joined the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition and provided a service for the homeless that has been a gap in the City of Victoria.

There is one Soup Kitchen in the City of Victoria which is Christ’s Kitchen that provides lunch 6 days a week. The chronic homeless and many other at-risk homeless persons receive 200 or more plates of food on a daily basis. Although there continues to be a need for services and more capacity at the facilities there is a great need for a shelter for families with children All the shelters are at capacity requiring a vital need to build capacity at the current shelters to provide additional shelter beds serving single men, women and women with children. This need was identified during both the PIT survey and during the Five •Year Consolidated Plan citizen participation process through stakeholder and consultation meetings.

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

This category that applies to any population that is presumed to be low to moderate income and in need of public services, non•homeless special needs include those of the senior, severely disabled adults, persons with HIV/AIDS, abused and neglected children and victims of domestic violence. These special needs are often addressed by nonprofit agencies. Understanding the characteristics of its special needs populations will help the City of Victoria better evaluate public facilities and services directed toward such needs.

Describe the characteristics of special needs populations in your community:

The special needs populations’ total approximately 21,418 persons in Victoria, Texas. The table below details the special need populations. Additional information on the populations is included below in the "Discussion" of this section.

 Senior 8,627  Disabled Elderly Adults 3,874  Disabled –Non Elderly Adults 5,645  Seriously Mentally Ill 2,650  People with HIV/AIDS 103  Victims of Domestic Violence 269 women and 23 men  Abused & Neglected Children 227

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

Outstanding Need: The National AIDS Housing Coalition (NAHC) states that housing is the greatest unmet service need for people living with the HIV/AIDS. NAHC estimates that as many as half of all people diagnosed HIV/AIDS will need some form of housing assistance at some point during their illness. These individuals may require short-term assistance with rent, mortgage, or utility costs or long- term housing for those with multiple diagnoses of HIV and mental illness and/or substance use. Using the reported numbers from the Texas Department of Health, approximately 44 individuals in Victoria County with HIV/AIDS would be in need of housing assistance.

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Barriers to Housing: In addition to living with their illness and inadequate housing situations, persons with HIV and AIDS in need of housing face a number of barriers, including discrimination, housing availability, transportation and housing affordability. The co-incidence of other special needs problems with HIV/AIDS can make some individuals even more difficult to house. Because of frequent concurrence of substance abuse and mental illness with HIV/AIDS, housing providers often struggle to serve this population. Housing not only affects an individual’s ability to avoid exposure to HIV, but also increases an HIV-positive individual’s ability to avoid exposing others to HIV and their ability to access and adhere to care.

Resources: The Victoria County Public Health Department (VCPHD) Special Services Division is the only provider of HIV/AIDS specific services in Victoria. VCPHD/Special Services provides support, assistance, and educational services to persons living with HIV/AIDS as well as those affected by the virus living in the Victoria area. Since 1992 VCPHD/Special Services has served more than 300 HIV+ people in the Crossroads area. Services offered include anonymous and confidential HIV testing, TB testing, prevention counseling, health education/risk reduction, HIV prevention education, nurse on-site, hepatitis vaccination, case management for HIV/AIDS, financial education/emergency assistance, food pantry, housing assistance, medication assistance program, and transportation.

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

According to the 2013 EPA profile published by the Texas Department of State and Health Services and the Victoria County Public Health Department Special Services Division reported serving 103 individuals with HIV/AIDS in the past year. 54% of the 103 are between the ages of 24 and 44. Of the individuals with HIV/AIDS, 69% are Black/African American and 54% of the persons are also at or below 100% of the federal poverty level. It can be assumed that these statistics hold true for persons living with HIV/AIDS, medications are prolonging lives considerably. With this said, persons who are HIV positive require special housing for longer periods of time, The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over one million adults and adolescents are living with HIV in the U.S., including those not yet diagnosed and those who have already progressed to AIDS.

Discussion:

Non Homeless Special Needs is a broad category that applies to any population that is presumed to be low to moderate income and in need of public services. The category covers a large population, including the mentally ill, developmentally disabled, senior, and other groups. Based on input and the data received through the citizen participation process, the highest non-homeless special need priorities identified and ranked by the public were as follows:

 Mental Health and Wellness programs

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 Subsistence Program such as Utility Assistance, Meals-on-Wheels and Kid’s Backpack program;  Program for Abused and Neglected Children  Program for the Senior/ Disabled;  Program for Children & Youth

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

Public Participation is a vital aspect of any planning process. It aids in identifying the needs and desires of citizens and leads to a more informed and engaged public, resulting in a plan that is more representative of the community for which it was designed. The public participation is aimed at fulfilling federal requirements through public hearings. The City of Victoria has exceeded those expectations to include surveys, questionnaires, roundtable and one-on-one consultations to address the community needs. Community development is essential to a successful community.

PUBLIC FACILITIES NEEDS

The City of Victoria is dedicated to addressing the non-housing community development needs of its residents and creating sustainable living environments. Several areas have been identified that will promote neighborhood stabilization in low and moderate-income areas. These identified areas are important for healthy, safe, and attractive neighborhoods. The approach the City of Victoria has been using for the last 5 years reaches a larger population by focusing on not just one neighborhood, but on larger areas containing multiple neighborhoods.

Non Housing Community Development is a broad category of spending that covers many types of public facilities such as homeless shelters, domestic violence center and disabled housing and that benefit low or moderate income persons. Based on the needs assessment, input received through the citizen participation process, including manager’s reports, public hearing, questionnaires, surveys and roundtable and through those the following public facility needs were identified and to gauge future needs:

 Increase facility capacity of shelters for the homeless population;  Increase facility capacity of special needs populations;  Youth Center improvements;

During the citizen participation process, the City identified the need for increased capacity of the facilities that serve the homeless population and special needs populations. Past Action plans have supported Women’s Crisis Center, Salvation Army Shelter, Boys & Girls Club and the Gulf Bend Wellness center. Discussions are under way to determine facility renovations and increasing capacities for the existing facilities. The City partners with these agencies in providing sound, safe and accessible facilities to the under-resourced and homeless. The enhancement of youth and teen centers will provide safe environments for children that will provide activities to attract the children and youth.

How were these needs determined?

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facilities, particularly those facilities that house victims of domestic violence, youth and teen centers and homeless persons. Improvements, enhancements and expansions are constantly needed in emergency shelters, transitional and permanent support housing facilities to address the growing needs of homeless families and individuals.

These needs were determined through an approach that included a citizen participation process and review of other plans and documents. The citizen participation process was conducted through a public hearing, manager’s reports, roundtables, questionnaires and surveys distributed to local stakeholders. During the roundtable an educational PowerPoint presentation was provided concerning the background of the CDBG program, the purpose of a Five Year Consolidated Plan, which activities and areas are eligible for funding, and the schedule of the adoption of the Consolidated Plan. The last part was an open discussion where participants shared their opinions regarding the needs of the City and ranked those needs. The following City plans were considered in the development of the needs:

Subrecipient agencies and other non-profit service providers;

 Community stakeholders;  Residents, through completion of surveys, attendance at public hearings, and input through other public meetings,  City of Victoria Comprehensive Plan 2035  Victoria 2040 Long-Range Metropolitan Transportation Plan  Public Housing Authority Plan  Continuum of Care Plan

The public facility needs, as with all of the needs outlined in the Consolidated Plan, were determined through a combination of input and through the review of the above mentioned plans. Priority ranking was determined from the community, subrecipient agencies and non-profit service providers in the City of Victoria. Input received during the public forums and through the Consolidated Plan survey, questionnaires and roundtable.

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Improvements:

Non-Housing Community Development is a broad category of spending that covers many types of public improvements such as parks, transit, and other capital projects that benefit low- or moderate income neighborhoods. Community development is essential to a successful community. The City of Victoria is dedicated to addressing the community development needs of its residents and creating sustainable living environments. The approach the City of Victoria has been using for the last 5 years reaches a

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larger population by focusing on not just one neighborhood, but on larger areas containing multiple neighborhoods.

The following public improvements needs were identified:

 Demolition of substandard structures in the community that create blight; Additional Transit Shelters; Park improvements through new playground equipment, covered picnic shelters and splash pad;  Code Enforcement; (Funded in 1st Year Program then funding moved to General Funds.)  Neighborhood Clean-Ups (Due to regulation changes this need will not be met through CDBG funding but volunteer organizations will continue to assist as availability arises.)  Sidewalk;

The needs assessment and citizen participation process revealed a need to address blight in low to moderate income census block groups. Code enforcement is an essential element to neighborhood improvement and revitalization, particularly in terms of preventing blight in which funding will be removed from CDBG Funds during the 2nd program year. The Code Enforcement activity will not be undertaken in the remaining years of the 2015-2019 CPS due to changes in HUD regulations and guidelines. Prior to the current fiscal year, the City allocated CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement Officer to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments. This amendment will allocate additional funds to the Demolition/Clearance program. The City’s General Fund will now cover all Code Enforcement Officer costs.

Community development initiatives in past years have been the Neighborhood Clean-Up Projects. These events bring together residents and volunteers to tackle various one-day projects in a selected neighborhood. Revised HUD regulations have also impacted the Neighborhood Clean-up activity, which is now classified as a Public Service Activity (PSA). PSAs are subject to a 15% cap, meaning only 15% of an annual CDBG allocation may be directed to PSAs. Reprogrammed funds will be redirected to Public Infrastructure Improvement activities to further the CPS goals of creating suitable living environments and increasing the accessibility and availability of sidewalks.

Other public improvements that showed a high priority in the City of Victoria are safe pedestrian mobility along Victoria’s major sidewalk corridors to infill sidewalk gaps and installation of Transit Shelters allowing for greater accessibility to serve low- and moderate income households. The final public improvements are the parks located in the low-to moderate income census block groups. As shown in the map above there are a number of parks in neighborhood communities. The City places a high priority on safe venues and enhancing the parks to entice or interest families into outside activities. Improving parks in the low-income block groups provides residents with accessible venues for recreational activities that promote health, wellbeing, deter gang and drug activities, and increase community involvement.

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How were these needs determined?

The City’s need for public improvements was determined through a merging of the results during the non-profit roundtable and stakeholder interviews, City departments such as Parks & Recreation, Public Works/Engineering Department, Development Services and input from the City’s residents. Input was received during various public forums and through the Consolidated Plan survey. These needs were determined through an approach that included a citizen participation process and review of other plans and documents. The citizen participation process was conducted through a public hearing, stakeholder meetings, and questionnaire distributed to local stakeholders. During the roundtable an educational PowerPoint presentation was provided concerning the background of the CDBG program, the purpose of a Five-Year Consolidated Plan, which activities and areas are eligible for funding, and the schedule of the adoption of the Consolidated Plan. The last part was an open discussion where participants shared their opinions regarding the needs of the City and ranked those needs. The City Victoria has a strong planning program within its organization. Consequently, the City has several plans that provide support and identify needs for the development of the Consolidated Plan. The goal of these activities is to improve the safety, accessibility, and sustainability of neighborhoods.

Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Services:

Public Services are also a broad category that applies to any population that is presumed to be low-to moderate income or low-mod block group area benefit. These public services are often provided by non- profit agencies, usually in coordination with the City of Victoria. The following public services needs were identified:

 Mental Health & Wellness services for persons with mental, physical, or development disabilities;  Children & Youth services;  Abused & Neglected Children services;  Employment/Job Training services for homeless and at-risk homeless persons;  Subsistence assistance such as eviction prevention, Meals-on-Wheels and utility assistance;  Homeless Support services;  Senior and or Disabled Services.

During the citizen participation process, public services were identified as one of the greatest needs in the community. The agencies providing services are constricted by limited resources. Services that are aimed at the homeless population were a specifically high priority, as well as populations at risk of becoming homeless. Mental Health & Wellness services were specified multiple times during the citizen participation process. Mental disabilities present a high percentage of co-occurring medical issues. Another public service with a high rank was Youth & Children services that promote a better quality of life were also identified as an important community need was for children that have been

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abused and neglected. Participants suggested addressing children & youth services as a way to build character and provide opportunities for youth to better themselves. The major area of concern was a need for additional accessible, affordable youth care with transportation.

As noted throughout the needs assessment, homeless and at risk homeless persons are in great need for services. To help relieve the public service agencies budget for homeless prevention services and employment and Job training the City of Victoria works with non-profit agencies to meet these public services needs. The final needs identified were senior/disabled programs and subsistence assistance for low-income residents in Victoria. These programs included Eviction Prevention, Meals-on-Wheels and Kid’s Back Pack Program.

How were these needs determined?

These needs were determined through an approach that included a citizen participation process and review of other plans and documents. Based on the needs assessment, input received through the citizen participation process, including managers’ reports, public hearing roundtable, surveys and questionnaire in order to better assess the need for services within the City. During the roundtable and educational PowerPoint presentation information was provided concerning the background of the CDBG program, the purpose of a Five-Year Consolidated Plan, which activities and areas are eligible for funding, and the schedule of the adoption of the Consolidated Plan. The following City plans were considered in the development of the needs for the development of 5-year Consolidated Plan:

 Subrecipient agencies and other non-profit service providers;  Community stakeholders;  Residents, through completion of surveys, attendance at public hearings, and input through other public meetings,  City of Victoria Comprehensive Plan 2035  Victoria 2040 Long-Range Metropolitan Transportation Plan  Public Housing Authority Plan  Continuum of Care Plan

Past Action Plans of the City of Victoria have been very supportive of public service projects. During the CPS 2010-2014, the city’s focus moved from owner-occupied rehabilitation to public service activities which assist a larger number of low-income beneficiaries. The City of Victoria has determined that while housing rehabilitation is a need in the community and an eligible expense of CDBG funds, CDBG funds will be allocated to public services and public facilities. According to the 2011 CHAS data in Table 2 there are 2,575 households at or below 80% AMI with children below the age of 6 at home that require services. With an aging population, Victoria has a need for senior services. According to the 2011 Census, 3,205 persons at or below 80% AMI or 5.1% of the population living in Victoria is over the age of 62 years. This number is expected to continue to grow and increase the need for nutritious meals and transportation.

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Housing Market Analysis

MA-05 Overview Housing Market Analysis Overview:

The market analysis section provides insight into the housing needs of Victoria’s low and moderate income households. As well, this section will go into the cost burdens that low income household’s face when housing is considered. The 2015-2020 Consolidated plan details the current conditions in the City of Victoria as well as describing the types of activities the City will support using its annual federal, entitlement allocation. This section covers the following broad topics

 General Characteristics of the Housing Market: General Information about what the City’s housing market, condition, and cost of housing are shown in the following sections: Number of Housing Units (MA-10); Cost of Housing (MA-15); and, Condition of Housing (MA-20).  Lead-based Paint Hazards: Houses built prior to 1980 are at an increased risk of having lead based paint. In the Condition of Housing (MA-20) section, more details are provided about the number of at risk homes in the City.  Public and Assisted Housing: Details about the public housing developments and public housing units are provided within the Public and Assisted Housing (MA-25) section. The physical conditions, as well as the restoration and revitalization needs are listed within this section.  Facilities, Housing, and Services for Homeless Persons: In the homeless facilities and services (MA-30) section, the types of programs available to the homeless are discussed.  Special Need Facilities and Services: The Special Needs Facilities and Services (MA-35) section describes the housing stock available to serve persons with disabilities and other low-income persons with special needs and their families.  Barriers to Affordable Housing: This section (MA- 40) provides an assessment of the regulatory barriers to affordable housing that exist within the City of Victoria.

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

he total number of housing units has increased in the City of Victoria over the past decade. The city had a total of 24,192 housing units at the time of the 2000 U.S. Census, and 25,660 housing units at the time of the 2010 U.S. Census. This comes to a total increase of 6% between the years 2000 and 2010. According to the 2007-2011 American Community Survey (ACS), there is an estimated 25,922 housing units currently within the City of Victoria.

All residential properties by number of units

Property Type Number % 1-unit detached structure 17,541 68% 1-unit, attached structure 381 1% 2-4 units 2,827 11% 5-19 units 2,753 11% 20 or more units 1,163 4% Mobile Home, boat, RV, van, etc 1,254 5% Total 25,919 100% Table 27 – Residential Properties by Unit Number Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS

Residential Properties by Unit Number

As seen in Table 23 the majority of residential properties are single unit detached properties, which account for 70% or 18,089 of properties, according to 2007-2011 ACS. Single unit attached structures make up 411 or 2% of total units. Residential properties are further categorized into properties within 2 - •4 unit structures (2,810 or 11%), properties within 5 - •19 unit structures (2,394 or 9%), and properties within 20 or more unit structures (1,121 or 4%). Lastly 1,097 or 4% of the residential properties in the City of Victoria are comprised of mobile homes, RV, etc.

Unit Size by Tenure

Owners Renters Number % Number % No bedroom 37 0% 205 2% 1 bedroom 200 1% 2,495 25% 2 bedrooms 2,030 15% 4,252 43% 3 or more bedrooms 11,528 84% 2,843 29% Total 13,795 100% 9,795 99% Table 28 – Unit Size by Tenure Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS Unit Size by Tenure

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As shown in Table 24, there is an estimated 23,508 occupied housing units within the City of Victoria, according to the 2007-2011 ACS. Renter-occupied units account for 9,382 or 40%, while owner- occupied units make up 14,126 or 60% of the total units. 3 or more bedroom units make up the majority of owner-occupied units (11,906 or 84%), while 2 bedrooms are found fairly often (2,058 or 15%), and 1 bedrooms are very uncommon to see (162 or 1%).

Of all renter-occupied units 2 bedroom are the most common (3,821 or 41%), and 3 or more bedrooms make up 2,856 or 30% of the units. Meanwhile, 1 bedroom units make up 2,438 or 26% of units, and only 267 or 3% of units have no bedrooms.

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

According to the Office of Public and Indian Housing Public Information Center, the following number and type of voucher units are available within the City of Victoria (See also Table 33)

 321 total public housing units are available, of which 117 (36.4%) are available to the elderly and disabled.  347 total Section 8 vouchers are available, of which 216 (62.2%) are available to the elderly and disabled.

As shown in Table 18 of NA-35, 314 of the 321 public housing units are in use, and 304 of the 347 Section 8 vouchers are in use.

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

Within the City of Victoria no Section 8 contracts are scheduled to expire within the time frame of the five year plan. The City of Victoria is currently trying to grow its number of affordable housing units.

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

Currently there is a shortage of affordable housing for households with very low incomes earning less than 30% HUD Adjusted Median Family Income (HAMFI). Currently there are 2,515 households earning less than 30% HAMFI, while only 405 households are considered affordable to them. For households earning between 30-50% HAMFI there appears to be an adequate number of housing units. There are 2,640 households earning 30-50% HAMFI, and 3,010 units that are considered affordable to them. While for households making over 50% HAMFI there is an overabundance of housing units.

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Presently there are 6,364 households earning between 50-100% HAMFI, and there are 12,943 units that are considered affordable to them. See MA-15 for a more detailed look into affordable housing.

Describe the need for specific types of housing:

Within any city there is a need for a diverse set of housing to meet each individual households needs. Currently rental units make up 40% of total units while owner units make up 60%. This distribution is usually sufficient when trying to provide a selection of choices for moderate income households. The only housing that has the potential to be under represented is 2 bedrooms or less owner units. This could potentially be caused by owners tending to want to occupy homes that have 3 bedrooms or larger, either to provide themselves an office, storage area, or guest rooms.

Discussion

Over the past decade the total number of housing units in the City has increased. Most of these units are single-unit detached structures. 60% of the housing units are owner occupied while 40% are renter occupied. Currently there is a shortage of 2,110 affordable housing units for households making 30% HAMFI or lower. However, there are a variety of different housing options for different incomes found throughout the city.

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

This section discusses the overall housing costs in the City of Victoria. In particular this section deals with housing availability, cost trends, rent trends, and fair market rents.

Cost of Housing

Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2013 % Change Median Home Value 69,400 108,900 57% Median Contract Rent 417 589 41% Table 29 – Cost of Housing

Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2009-2013 ACS (Most Recent Year)

Rent Paid Number % Less than $500 3,559 36.3% $500-999 5,718 58.4% $1,000-1,499 428 4.4% $1,500-1,999 42 0.4% $2,000 or more 48 0.5% Total 9,795 100.0% Table 30 - Rent Paid Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS

Rent Paid

The change in cost of housing is displayed in Table 25 above. According to data gathered from the 2007- 2011 ACS, the current median home value for the City of Victoria is $103,500. This accounts for an increase of 49% from the 2000 U.S. Census when median home value was $69,400. The current median rent is $532 as stated by the 2007-2011 ACS. This represents an increase in 28% from the 2000 U.S. Census when it was $417.

In table 26 the estimated rents for the City of Victoria are shown, according to the 2007-2011 ACS. Almost all of the 9,382 renter occupied units have a rent less than $999. Almost half (49.7% or 4,666) of the rental units have a rent between $500-999, while 46.0% or 4,314 have a rent of less than $500. Of the remaining 4.3% of rental units, 3.5% or 328 of the rents are between $1,000-1,499, 0.5% or 50 are between $1,500-1,999, and .3% or 24 are $2,000 or more.

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Housing Affordability

% Units affordable to Households Renter Owner earning 30% HAMFI 425 No Data 50% HAMFI 1,635 1,110 80% HAMFI 4,910 2,845 100% HAMFI No Data 4,185 Total 6,970 8,140 Table 31 – Housing Affordability Data Source: 2009-2013 CHAS Housing Affordability

A general rule used by HUD states that households should spend no more than 30% of their incomes on housing. If households are spending more than this amount, they are considered “cost burdened,” or “overpaying for housing”. If the share of income spent on housing grows to 50% or more, households are considered “severely cost burdened.” Table 27 above uses data from the 2007-2011 CHAS, to separate households into four HUD Adjusted Median Family Income (HAMFI) brackets.

For households with incomes less than or equal to 30% HAMFI, a total of 405 rental units are considered affordable, while there was no data for owner units. For households with incomes less than or equal to 50% HAMFI, a total of 1,780 rental units, and 1,230 owner units are considered affordable. For households with incomes less than or equal to 80% HAMFI, a total of 5,185 rental units, and 3,260 owner units are affordable. Finally, for households with incomes less than or equal to 100% HAMFI, a total of 4,498 owner units are affordable, and there is no data available for renter units.

According to Table 24, there are currently 9,382 rental units in the City of Victoria, of which only 405 or 4% are considered affordable to the lowest income bracket (30% HAMFI). For households with incomes less than or equal to 50% HAMFI, 1,689 or 18% of rental units are affordable. The largest majority of renter occupied housing units are affordable to households earning less than or equal to 80% HAMFI.

As shown in Table 24, there is an estimated 14,126 owner occupied housing units within the City of Victoria. Of this total 9% are considered affordable to households with incomes less than or equal to 50% HAMFI, 23% are affordable to households with incomes less than or equal to 80% HAMFI, and 31% are available to households with incomes less than or equal to 100% HAMFI.

Monthly Rent

Monthly Rent ($) Efficiency (no 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom bedroom) Fair Market Rent High HOME Rent Low HOME Rent Table 32 – Monthly Rent

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Data Source: HUD FMR and HOME Rents Monthly Rent

Currently shown in Table 28, the City of Victoria shows there are 2,515 Households earning less than or equal to 30% HAMFI, while there are only 405 rental properties and too few owner properties to calculate. This is leading to a large shortage in properties for these extremely low income households. There appears to be an even number of households earning between 30-50% HAMFI (2,640) as there are rental and owner properties (3,010). For the 4,070 households between 50-80% HAMFI there are 8,445 affordable housing units available, and for the 2294 households earning between 80-100% HAMFI there are 4,498 housing units that are affordable.

Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels?

Currently shown in Table 28, the City of Victoria shows there are 2,515 Households earning less than or equal to 30% HAMFI, while there are only 405 rental properties and too few owner properties to calculate. This is leading to a large shortage in properties for these extremely low income households. There appears to be an even number of households earning between 30-50% HAMFI (2,640) as there are rental and owner properties (3,010). For the 4,070 households between 50-80% HAMFI there are 8,445 affordable housing units available, and for the 2,294 households earning between 80-100% HAMFI there are 4,498 housing units that are affordable.

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

The median home value in the City of Victoria has increased from $69,400 in 2000 to $103,500 in 2011, these accounts for a 49% increase in median home value. Alternatively, the Median Household income in the City of Victoria has only increased from $36,829 in 2000 to $44,803 in 2011, for an increase of 22% in median household income. For this reason, it will become more difficult for low and moderate income household to own a home without becoming cost burdened. The median contract rent in the City of Victoria has increased from $417 in 2000 to $532 in 2011 for a total increase of 28%. Since the median rent has increased by more than the household income, it will become more difficult for low and moderate income households to find affordable rental units.

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

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The City’s current median rent is estimated to be $532 (according to the 2007-2011 ACS). The median rent is lower than the fair market rent for 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom units, but is higher than that of efficiency units. This trend is the same when comparing median rent to the High HOME Rent and Low HOME Rent. With the only exception being that the median rent is higher than the Low Home Rent for 1-bedroom units as well as efficiency units.

Discussion

Within the City of Victoria, there is a potential shortage of affordable units for very low income households (less than 30% HAMFI). Median home value is increasing at a faster rate than median household income, which will make housing less affordable to low- and moderate-income households. Additionally, the 2007-2011 CHAS data does not reflect the recent construction of 7 market apartment complexes with 1,298 units. This large number of market-rate units will have a significant impact on the availability of housing for the 80% HAMFI and above income households.

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

This section describes the significant characteristics of the housing market in terms of supply, demand, condition, and the cost of housing. Additionally, it provides insight on the number of homes affected by lead based paint hazards in the City of Victoria.

Definitions

Substandard conditions include those conditions affecting health and safety, including major plumbing and electrical issues, no safe ventilation, no heating source, severe roof damage, with a rehabilitation cost of more than 25% the value of the structure but not exceeding 50% of the value of the rehabbed structure. Those not suitable for rehabilitation include houses with severely damaged walls, support studs/beams, and subflooring and with a rehabilitation cost of more than 50% of the value of the structure after rehabilitation. These units determined to be substandard structures if they are not suitable for rehabilitation or declared unsafe by the Building & Standards Commission.

Condition of Units

Condition of Units Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % With one selected Condition 2,984 22% 4,495 46% With two selected Conditions 111 1% 369 4% With three selected Conditions 0 0% 39 0% With four selected Conditions 0 0% 0 0% No selected Conditions 10,700 78% 4,892 50% Total 13,795 101% 9,795 100% Table 33 - Condition of Units Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS Condition of Unit

Table 29 shows the condition of occupied housing units within the City of Victoria. These units are further broken down into ownerâ¿•occupied units and renterâ¿•occupied units. As defined by HUD, a housing “condition” includes the following:

• A housing unit that lacks complete plumbing facilities

• A housing unit that lacks complete kitchen facilities

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• A housing unit with more than one person per room

• A housing unit with a cost burden greater than 30% of the occupant’s household income

According to 2007-2011 ACS data, the majority (10,922 or 77%) of owner-occupied housing units have no housing conditions. Houses with one selected condition (3,143 or 22%) make up most of the remaining units, while only 61 units or less than 1% have two conditions. No owner-occupied units have more than two conditions.

Of the 9,382 renter-occupied units, (4,439 or 47%) of them have no conditions. The next largest category is units with one condition (4,360 or 46%), while those with two conditions (548 or 6%) can sometimes be found, and those with three conditions (35 or less than 1%) are almost never seen.

Year Unit Built

Year Unit Built Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % 2000 or later 1,227 9% 1,086 11% 1980-1999 3,921 28% 3,064 31% 1950-1979 7,197 52% 4,362 45% Before 1950 1,450 11% 1,283 13% Total 13,795 100% 9,795 100% Table 34 – Year Unit Built Data Source: 2009-2013 CHAS

Year Unit Built

As shown in Table 30, 60% of the owner-occupied housing and 55% renter-occupied housing is pre-1979 which is 13,667 units 36 or more years old.

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 8,647 63% 5,645 58% Housing Units build before 1980 with children present 2,320 17% 715 7% Table 35 – Risk of Lead-Based Paint Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS (Total Units) 2009-2013 CHAS (Units with Children present) Risk of Lead Based Paint

Table 31 estimates the number of units with lead-based paint hazards within the City of Victoria. The number of housing units with lead-based paint is not available; however, homes built prior to 1980 are at a higher assumed risk than those constructed after. This information was collected using data from

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the 2007-2011 ACS and 2007-2011 CHAS. Of the 14,126 owner occupied units in the City of Victoria, 8,544 (60%) of the units were built before 1980. Of those, 790(6% of the 8,544) have children present. For renter occupied housing units 5,123 (55%) of the total 9,382 renter-occupied units were built prior to 1980. Of those 1,580(17% of the 9,382) have children present.

Vacant Units

Suitable for Not Suitable for Total Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Vacant Units Abandoned Vacant Units REO Properties Abandoned REO Properties Table 36 - Vacant Units Data Source: 2005-2009 CHAS Vacant Units

This information is not attainable but the number of REO properties and abandoned REO properties has greatly reduced due to the increased median cost of housing, making it more profitable for the homeowner to get the home back into the occupied housing stock.

Need for Owner and Rental Rehabilitation

In reference to housing quality, 22% of all owner-occupied housing units and 52% of renter-occupied units have at least one housing condition. When looking at the age of housing in the City of Victoria, 60% of owner occupied houses and 55% of Renter occupied houses were built prior to 1980. This puts these units at a higher risk for lead based paint hazards.

These statistics show that there is some need for the City of Victoria to facilitate both owner-unit and rental-unit rehabilitations. But due to limited CDBG funding, the City will not be funding housing rehabilitation or reconstruction. The City has applied for State funding through TDHCA for reconstruction funding in 2015. The City will also continue to access FHLB for funding opportunities to assist accessibility issues of the elderly and disabled. Rehabilitation programs for ramps and community risk (smoke alarm) programs may be funded as needs are determined, and projects are presented.

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

Table 30 identifies that, currently, 8,544 of owner-occupied and 5,123 of renter-occupied housing units were built before 1980. Approximately 13,667(58%) of the units in the City of Victoria are assumed to have a higher risk of lead-based paint hazards. As of the 2007-2011 ACS currently 9,225 low to moderate income households (earning less than or equal to 80% HAMFI) reside in the City of Victoria. Therefore, Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 97 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

approximately 5,350 (58% of 9,225 households) low to moderate income households would be assumed to live in a home with a higher risk of lead-based paint hazards.

Discussion

The large majority of the housing units in the City of Victoria have either one or no current housing conditions. This is true for both the renter occupied units as well as the owner occupied units. The City of Victoria was founded in 1824, based on this date many of the homes are very old with only 36% of the units being built in 1980 or later. With many of the homes in the City of Victoria being built prior to 1980 some work can be done to reduce the number of potential lead based paint hazards. Currently a large portion of renter occupied units have at least one condition as previously shown in Table 29. Lastly, the City has a large number of vacant owner and renter occupied units (2,239) identified in Table 31 that are not being currently inhabited.

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

The Victoria Housing Authority (VHA) has been charged with the responsibility of the administration of housing programs for low income persons. The operations of the VHA are funded through annual appropriations provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development>

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 321 347 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) 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:

In the City of Victoria, there are currently 321 public housing units available for use. Of these 321 units there are currently 314 that are being used. Currently, 57 (17%) of the units are one bedroom, 111 (35%) are two bedroom, 131 (41%) are three bedroom, and 22 (7%) are 4 bedroom. Of the 321 units, 17 (5%) are specifically reserved for elderly residents, and 35 (10%) are accessible to handicapped persons. These units are currently distributed between six complexes located throughout the city. When the units were inspected by the Real Estate Assessment Center they all had high scores. The facilities have an average score of 80 during inspection.

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Public Housing Condition

Public Housing Development Average Inspection Score 0 70 Table 38 - Public Housing Condition

Public Housing Condition and Development

In Table 34 there are 6 Public Housing complexes with 321 units that have an average score of 80 determined during the inspection.

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

Currently there is need for more 1-bedroom public housing units as there are 140 households on the waiting list in the City of Victoria for just 1-bedroom units. There is also renovation work needing to be done to some of the units for things such as flooring, siding, and pavement work, which is being addressed in the Victoria Housing Authorities Capital Funds Program.

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

Currently the VHA’s strategy to improving the living environment of low and moderate-income families is by bringing down the cost burden that they endure from housing through sliding scale rent rates, which are based on income. This allows for fewer turnovers since the elderly and disabled are on fixed incomes, and those incomes are unlikely to exceed the maximum median family income. The reason some citizens of the City of Victoria have this cost burden is because of a lack of a job, skills, and/or consistently low income. As well, currently 54% of the public housing units are currently being used by the elderly or handicapped and their families. These groups find it more difficult to locate accommodating living conditions, and the Housing Authority tries to provide to as many of them as possible.

Discussion:

The VHA currently has a significant waiting list on 1-bedroom public housing units. The restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units continue to be addressed in the Victoria Housing Authorities Capital Funds Program. All public housing units in the City of Victoria have received passing inspection scores of 60 or above.

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

This section describes the different beds and services available to the homeless, and who provides them.

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) 38 0 40 9 0 Households with Only Adults 28 0 0 9 0 Chronically Homeless Households 6 0 0 18 0 Veterans 0 0 0 0 0 Unaccompanied Youth 0 0 0 0 0 Table 39 - Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households Data Source Comments:

Housing Targeted for Homeless

Although it is not included as an emergency shelter, transitional housing, or permanent housing, the Restoration House Ministries has 6 beds that they currently use in their treatment center.

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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

 Mid-Coast Family Services, 120 North Main Street, Victoria, Texas. Mid-Coast Family Services provides services for adults and those who have been affected by alcohol and drug abuse. These services include crisis intervention counseling, substance use screenings, and a 24 hour call center. Mid-Coast can also provide a completely furnished one-bedroom apartment to qualified applicants.  Salvation Army, 1302 North Louis Street, Victoria, Texas. Has a Stepping Stone program that provides drug and alcohol abuse program for 90-180 days.  Perpetual Help Home, 705 East Santa Rosa Street, Victoria, Texas. Provides drug rehabilitation assistance to women.

Mental Health Resources

 Gulf Bend MHMR Center, 6502 Nursery Drive, Suite 100, Victoria, Texas. Provides counseling for those who need it through their Place4 counseling center. Gulf Bend provides care to those with mental health issues, specifically the serious and persistently mentally ill. Annually, the center serves 1,900 adults with mental illness, 550 children with emotional disturbances, and 200 persons with developmental disabilities. In conjunction with the City of Victoria, Gulf Bend has built the Wellness Center which is a 32 unit facility for its patients. The facility will provide 24/7 medical needs, like skill training and counseling.

Employment Resources

 Perpetual Help Home, 705 East Santa Rosa Street, Victoria, Texas. Perpetual Help Home (PHH) provides job training, and financial planning for women.  House of Dreams, 1204 N Moody Street, Victoria, Texas. A case manager mentors each family in areas such as G.E.D. training, transportation, life coaching, and job placement.

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.

Mid-Coast Family Services

 Provide emergency and permanent supportive housing to qualified applicants.

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 Provides warm meals to those who need them 6 days a week.

Perpetual Help Home

 Provides Employment resources to the homeless, as well as transitional housing.

KIDZconnection

 Provides basic needs for the homeless and at-risk-homeless children, and unaccompanied youth attending Victoria Independent School District.

Housing Authority of the City of Victoria

 Provides housing for the low-income persons, with special consideration for the elderly and those with physical disabilities.

Victoria Food Bank

 Provides backpack program for homeless students.

Faith Family House of Dreams Shelter

 Provides transitional housing for women and children. An eviction prevention program is also available for at risk homeless.

Salvation Army

 Provides emergency shelter for the chronic homeless men, and eviction prevention for at-risk homeless.

Restoration House

 Treatment Center that also provides housing for women and children.

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

This section describes the facilities and programs used to assist those with unique needs in the City of Victoria. These populations may include the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, and developmental), persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, public housing residents, or other groups. These facilities can include such things as wheel chair accessible units, or non-income eligible units.

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

The homeless have many needs that have to be addressed, stable and decent housing are a very important resource in getting people out of being chronically homeless. Jobs and education are also supportive needs of the homeless that need to be addressed. The Victoria Food Bank provides food to the homeless as well as creating bags for the elderly seniors to have. The Food Bank makes on average 2,000 bags a year for homeless children and about 300 bags for senior citizens annually.

Another group that has specific needs is the persons with HIV/AIDS and their families. These persons will require counseling as well educational services. For those with alcohol and drug addictions they need long term counseling, long term recovery care, as well as rehabilitation centers.

The elderly and frail elderly, require a consistent accessible living environment. This living environment can entail things such as handicap accessible ramps, utility/ rent assistance and prescription assistance. The last group that has specific needs is the persons with disabilities (mental, physical, and developmental). Those with disabilities generally require a care facility, which sometimes includes long term care. Also much like the elderly, many of the physically disabled may require handicap accessible ramps.

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

Discharge planning and discharge follow up occurs for all individuals leaving a State Hospital/School, returning to the local service area. These services ensure people have services lined up upon their return such as doctor services and medication refills. Programs include Extended Observation Unit and Transitional Housing. Extended Observation is a step-down outpatient program for where people stay to assure they are stable and ready for community living. Transitional housing offers short term living that incorporates living/life skills to include job search and permanent housing. Currently when a person’s returns from a mental and physical health institution the intention would be for them go into a permanent supportive housing unit. However, there are not enough units currently to allow for that.

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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 Code of Federal Regulation 91.315(e) requires that any use of HOME funds must be identified concerning the allocation of funding towards non-homeless special needs groups. The City of Victoria does not receive formula grant funding but does seek competitive funding through the Texas Department of Housing Community Affairs (TDHCA) HOME Investment Partnerships Program (“HOME”). The City of Victoria received approval to participate in the HOME Reservation system with TDHCA for the Homeowner Rehabilitation Assistance (HRS) set-aside.

During the CDBG 2015-2016 Action Plan Year, the City of Victoria will conduct many programs to address the housing and supportive services needs of special needs persons. The City plans to support developers who work to increase the quantity of affordable rental housing during the next year. Additionally the City plans to fund programs that will provide non-homeless special needs groups with necessary resources such as medical help, counseling, food, and job/employment training.

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))

As discussed in the previous question the City of Victoria is not a formula HOME grantee. The City of Victoria does plan to undertake many programs to address the housing and supportive services needs of special needs persons. The City plans to support developers who work to increase the quantity of affordable rental housing during the next year. Supportive services will be provided through Public Service Agency activities but funding for these services are capped at 15% of the grant and 15% of the program income.

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

Fair housing is crucial to ensuring that persons of low income levels have equal access to housing. HUD requires jurisdictions that receive federal funds to commit to affirmatively further fair housing. The City of Victoria has identified six problems facing affordable housing:

Neighborhood Deterioration- Efforts to sustain and revitalize neighborhoods will be carried out through demolition and code enforcement programs. These programs will seek to address neighborhood deterioration caused by neglect or lack of maintenance and foster neighborhood pride to deter further deterioration. The Code Enforcement and Neighborhood Clean-up activities will not be undertaken in the remaining years of the 2015-2019 CPS due to changes in HUD regulations and guidelines. Prior to the current fiscal year, the City allocated CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement Officer to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments. Revised HUD regulations require Code Enforcement activities to be leveraged with public and private improvements within CDBG-eligible Census block groups. The amount of leveraging required and the complexity associated with monitoring the leveraging activities made it impractical for the City to continue allocating CDBG funds for Code Enforcement activities. To continue to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Demolition/Clearance program.

Revised HUD regulations have also impacted the Neighborhood Clean-up activity, which is now classified as a Public Service Activity (PSA). PSAs are subject to a 15% cap, meaning only 15% of an annual CDBG allocation may be directed to PSAs. The City maximizes its 15% PSA cap to assist local social service organizations, which have a much more direct and beneficial impact on low/moderate income families and individuals than Neighborhood Clean-ups. Since we cannot increase our PSA allocation, the remaining reprogrammed funds will be redirected to Public Infrastructure Improvement activities to further the CPS goals of creating suitable living environments and increasing the accessibility and availability of sidewalks.

Inadequate Supply of Low Cost Homes- the Mortgage Assistance Program offers $2,500 in down payment and closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers. The New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Program at Swan Crossing offers up to $20,000 of assistance to homebuyers to purchase a new home in Swan Crossing.

 Inability to Obtain Safe Rental Housing- Rental housing assistance is currently being addressed through CDBG funds. The Eviction Prevention Programs can provide housing assistance for eligible renters if they are on the verge of eviction.  Need for Home Ownership Education- Home ownership education is addressed on a program basis. Prospective homebuyers participating in the New Housing Homebuyer Assistance

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Program are provided home ownership education before purchase. Homebuyers requiring education or classes may be directed to area resources by staff.  Need for Housing and Services for the Homeless- the City works with the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition to address the needs of the homeless. Water bill and eviction prevention assistance also aid in the prevention of homelessness.  Minimum Lot Size Requirements- Minimum lot size is a subdivision platting requirement established by City Code. No CDBG programs address this barrier; however, staff recognizes the potential hardship caused by this requirement.

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

The Consolidated Plan provides a concise summary of the City’s priority nonâ¿Â•housing community development needs that are eligible for assistance. The following section describes the economic development needs of the City of Victoria, and also provides data regarding the local economic condition of the jurisdiction and compares the ability of the local work force to satisfy the needs of local businesses. Much of this data can be used to describe the level of housing demand in the local market.

This section discusses the following topics:

 Business by Sector  Labor Force  Occupations by Sector  Travel Time to Work  Education  Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months

Economic Development Market Analysis

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 1,928 1,820 8 7 -1 Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations 3,153 3,669 12 14 2 Construction 2,309 1,647 9 6 -3 Education and Health Care Services 3,814 5,505 15 21 6 Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 1,462 1,609 6 6 0 Information 287 369 1 1 0 Manufacturing 2,512 1,197 10 5 -5

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Business by Sector Number of Number of Jobs Share of Workers Share of Jobs Jobs less workers Workers % % % Other Services 919 1,081 4 4 1 Professional, Scientific, Management Services 1,280 1,228 5 5 0 Public Administration 0 0 0 0 0 Retail Trade 3,828 4,456 15 17 2 Transportation and Warehousing 891 640 4 2 -1 Wholesale Trade 1,490 1,573 6 6 0 Total 23,873 24,794 ------Table 40 - Business Activity Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS (Workers), 2013 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (Jobs)

Business Activity by Sector

Table 36 breaks down the number of workers and jobs within the City of Victoria by sector. The 2007-2011 ACS separates jobs into 13 sectors containing 22,019 workers total, while the 2011 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics data estimates that there are currently 24,129 Jobs in the city.

The largest percentages of workers are within the Education and Health Care Services sector (17%) and the Retail Trade sector (15%). Meanwhile, Transportation and Warehousing makes up only 3% of workers, and Information makes up the smallest percentage with only 1% of total workers. In comparison Education and Health Care Services has the largest percentage of jobs (22%) and Retail Trade makes up the second largest at (17%). Meanwhile, Information along with Transportation and Warehousing make up only 2% of jobs each.

As seen in Table 36 some sectors have deficiencies to be addressed. These are the sectors with an oversupply of workers for the number of jobs available, which are noted by the negative numbers in the jobless workers % column. Currently there are four sectors with fewer jobs than workers: Construction; Manufacturing; Professional, Scientific, and Management Services; and Transportation and Warehousing. In contrast, the City of Victoria has more jobs than workers in six business sectors: Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas Extraction; Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations; Education and Health Care Services; Finance, Insurance and Real Estate; Other Services; and Retail Trade. These jobs could potentially be filled by workers living outside of the City of Victoria.

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Labor Force

Total Population in the Civilian Labor Force 31,704 Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 29,078 Unemployment Rate 8.28 Unemployment Rate for Ages 16-24 22.61 Unemployment Rate for Ages 25-65 5.42 Table 41 - Labor Force Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS

Labor Force

Table 37 displays the labor force within the City of Victoria. According to the 2007-2011 ACS the total population in the civilian labor force is 30,431 for the city. This is the sum of civilian workers and those seeking employment currently, but it does not include those not currently seeking employment.

The number of Civilians 16 years and over currently employed is 28,003. This brings the city to an unemployment rate of 7.98% according to the 2007-2011 ACS. The unemployment rate for civilians within the ages of 16-24 is currently at 22.76%. While for civilians between the ages of 25-65 the unemployment rate is currently at 5.26%.

Occupations by Sector Number of People

Management, business and financial 4,715 Farming, fisheries and forestry occupations 1,258 Service 3,404 Sales and office 7,991 Construction, extraction, maintenance and repair 3,019 Production, transportation and material moving 1,669 Table 42 – Occupations by Sector Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS Occupation by Sector

Table 38 shows occupants by sector in the City of Victoria according to the 2007-2011 ACS. Sales and office account for the largest occupation with 7,260 occupants. Management, business and financial (4,860); Service (3,131); and Construction, extraction, maintenance and repair (3,064) are all well- represented occupations. The least prominent occupations in the City of Victoria are Production, transportation, and material moving (1,659); and farming, fisheries and forestry occupations (1,326)

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Travel Time

Travel Time Number Percentage < 30 Minutes 23,017 83% 30-59 Minutes 3,739 13% 60 or More Minutes 960 3% Total 27,716 100% Table 43 - Travel Time Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS

Travel Time

Table 39, a large portion of the City of Victoria’s employed residents commute less than 30 minutes (80%). Those who travel 30-59 minutes make up 16% of the residents, while those that travel over an hour to work make up on 5% of the total residents. These numbers are based off of 26,707 responses out of the total employed population of 28,003. Although the numbers are different, the number of responders allows for a good representation of the total employed population in the City of Victoria. The lack in responses is most likely from persons forgetting to, or choosing not to respond to the survey.

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 2,890 481 1,653 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 6,689 635 2,067 Some college or Associate's degree 9,051 489 2,081 Bachelor's degree or higher 4,595 99 690 Table 44 - Educational Attainment by Employment Status Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS Educational Attainment by Employment Status

Table 41 shows Educational Attainment by Age. A significant population over the age of 18 in the City of Victoria have not graduated from high school (9,084 or 21%). Nearly 25% (10,442) of the population over the age of 18 in the City of Victoria have at least an associate’s degree.

Educational Attainment by Age

Age 18–24 yrs 25–34 yrs 35–44 yrs 45–65 yrs 65+ yrs Less than 9th grade 136 230 525 1,046 1,406

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Age 18–24 yrs 25–34 yrs 35–44 yrs 45–65 yrs 65+ yrs 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 1,478 755 933 1,535 1,039 High school graduate, GED, or alternative 1,824 3,015 1,824 4,552 2,668 Some college, no degree 2,132 2,728 1,830 4,014 1,774 Associate's degree 380 652 1,031 1,366 345 Bachelor's degree 282 1,028 813 2,097 754 Graduate or professional degree 52 349 334 763 641 Table 45 - Educational Attainment by Age Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS Education Attainment by Age

Table 40 shows Educational Attainment by Age. A significant population over the age of 18 in the City of Victoria have not graduated from high school (9084 or 21%). Nearly 25% (10,442) of the population over the age of 18 in the City of Victoria have at least an associate’s degree.

Educational Attainment – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months

Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Less than high school graduate 16,234 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 26,795 Some college or Associate's degree 31,931 Bachelor's degree 47,952 Graduate or professional degree 57,951 Table 46 – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Data Source: 2009-2013 ACS Median Earnings past 12 months

Table 42 shows the median earnings over a 12 month period in relation to educational attainment, based off data gathered from the 2007-2011 ACS. The level of Educational Attainment has a strong correlation to median earnings over a 12 month period. Those with the highest education of a graduate or professional degree made the most at a median income of $56,045, while those with less than a high school degree made the least at $15,192. Those with a graduate or professional degree have a median income that is 350% of what someone with a high school degree would make. As well the difference between someone with a high school degree and an associate’s degree is a 130% increase.

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

The major employment sectors for the City of Victoria are arts, entertainment, accommodations (12% of workers and 13% of jobs); education and health care services (17% of workers and 22% of jobs);

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manufacturing (11% of workers and 6% of jobs); and retail trade (15% of workers and 17% of jobs). These sectors make up the largest majority of workers in Victoria, or have the largest share of jobs.

Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community:

Business in Victoria has a strong need for an educated workforce that often requires specialized training. A good transportation infrastructure is also vital to business in the City of Victoria.

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 Port of Victoria has invested and expanded their infrastructure to further business development in need of water way transportation. They have done this by adding docks at the site to expedite barge traffic for increased shipping volumes, and have expanded their rail capacity to meet the rising demands.

The Victoria College recently completed construction of their Emerging Technology Complex that includes an Industrial Training Center. The center is approximately 112,000 sq. ft. of space that will provide business and industry facilities to meet the training needs of their employees with specialized courses.

The U.S. IH-69 corridor project sections in Victoria include the construction of feeder roads along U.S. Hwy 59 and the completion of overpasses along Loop 463. The designation of Interstate 69 through Victoria will not only provide much needed transportation infrastructure, but will also provide recognition of interstate quality roadway for transportation of goods through the community.

These advances in the community support on-going and future growth of population which results in the need for additional investment in new infrastructure, and maintenance of existing infrastructure.

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

The passage of HB 5 allows the Victoria Independent School District the ability to leverage important vocational training for the youth in Victoria. As well, Victoria College, along with the University of

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Houston-Victoria both provides an educated workforce to the city to meet job needs. The colleges also have dedicated curriculums to meet the needs of the current and future workforce employment opportunities.

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 Victoria College offers business job specific training for incumbent workers and new employees. Businesses may apply and receive funding for the training through the skills development fund.

The Workforce Solutions of the Golden Crescent offers businesses assistance with job listings, recruitment, applications, and employee screenings as well as assessment testing; tax incentives, employment subsidies, subsidized internships, and customized training for new or existing workers. These programs provide an environment that promotes business and industry success.

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.

Yes, the jurisdiction participates in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS).

Victoria actively recruits industry representing primary jobs; assists established businesses in the retention and expansion of their services; participates in retail business recruitment; and engages in industrial business park development to support the attraction and recruitment of new business for a strong, and diverse economic base.

Discussion

According to the 2007-2011 ACS, the City of Victoria has a labor force of 30,431 people, of which approximately 92% are employed and 8% are unemployed. The Largest employment sectors in the City of Victoria are Sales and office, management, business, and financial. As is the trend throughout most of the United States, in the City of Victoria, the higher a group’s educational attainment, the higher their

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median earnings will be. In the City of Victoria, approximately 21% of the populations over the age of 18 do not have a high school degree or equivalent, while 25% of the population has at least an associate’s degree. Approximately 80% of the City of Victoria’s population drives less than 30 minutes to get to work, and approximately 16% drive between 30 minutes to an hour to get to work.

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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")

In reference to low and moderate income households, a census tract is considered to have a high concentration of low- and moderate income households if 51% or more of the population are low- and moderate-income persons. Concentration of multiple housing problems appears to be related to the Area Median Income (AMI). Areas with less than 30% (AMI) are 6 times as likely to have one or more housing problems as housing located in 80% or more AMI.

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

A census tract is considered to have a high concentration of low- and moderate income households if 51% or more of the population are low- and moderate-income persons. Additionally, a census tract is considered to have a high concentration of minority persons if:

 The percentage of households in a particular racial or ethnic minority group is at least 20 percentage points higher than the percentage of that minority group for the housing market area, i.e., the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in which the proposed housing is to be located.  The neighborhood’s total percentage of minority persons is at least 20 percentage points higher than the total percentage of all minorities for the MSA as a whole; or  In the case of a metropolitan area, the neighborhood’s total percentage of minority persons exceeds 50 percent of its population. HUD does not define a “neighborhood” as it applies here.

There are currently 11 census tracts in the City of Victoria that have a significant concentration of low to moderate income populations:

 Census Tract 601.1 – 57.31%  Census Tract 601.3 – 55.81%  Census Tract 602.4 – 79.49%  Census Tract 201.2 – 79.28%  Census Tract 201.1 – 68.04%  Census Tract 202.1 – 71.18%  Census Tract 202.2 – 69.20%  Census Tract 301.2 – 93.21%  Census Tract 301.1 – 74.07%  Census Tract 302.2 – 52.02%

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 Census Tract 302.1 – 77.61%

The concentration maps for the hispanic ethnicity and the black/africian american race are included at the bottom of the page.

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

The low income areas in the City of Victoria are mostly comprised of single family residential neighborhoods, with very little commercial interspersed throughout. There is no new construction in these areas, as most of it is already developed. Most of the properties in these areas are not likely to change in the near future.

Most of the areas that are along major corridors are classified as low income areas, with a few exceptions. The areas that have low income apartment complexes are located in the northern part of the city and are very close to higher income neighborhoods.

Lastly these areas are characterized with having a very good public transportation system, with many stops. Public transportation allows the low income households to travel throughout the city when a car is not an option.

Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods?

One of the larger assets to the low income areas is the ability to get around with public transportation. The buses currently run from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and a shortened schedule on the weekends. The public transportation system is also fully equipped to support citizens with physical disabilities.

The low-income communities have the largest share of parks in the City of Victoria, with 10 out of the 15 parks being located in low- income neighborhoods. The parks along with the local sports area, and community center, allow for adequate recreational facilities for the low income communities. Many of the schools within the City are located within the low-income areas. This allows for the youth to be in walking distance, or a short bus ride away from getting to school. The Victoria College and University of Houston Victoria campus are both located adjacent to many low income areas. As well many of the dorms for the campuses are located in the low-income areas.

Some of the block groups in the northern part of the city are comprised of low-income apartment complexes, and moderate to high income single family homes. This a good sign that the community is not being segregated based on income.

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Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas?

The City is expanding the strategic opportunities in these areas by focusing CDBG, and general fund improvements and enhancements in the areas as well as encouraging economic development, affordable housing development and redevelopment. As well, the City of Victoria is in the TDHCA reservation system for the HOME reconstruction projects, to bring about positive home improvements in these communities.

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Hispanic Concentration

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Black Concentration

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Strategic Plan

SP-05 Overview Strategic Plan Overview

The Strategic Plan identifies and addresses the City's needs, for the next 5 years. Every need has goals and objectives designed to measure progress and strategies to address them. The high priority needs to deal with the following:

 Affordable Housing  Community Development (non housing)  Public Services  Public Facilities  Planning and Administration

To meet community needs, the City must collaborate with other entities to enhance their service delivery systems. Accomplishments will be through monitoring, technical assistance, workshops, and information sharing such as Mid Coast CoC, Habitat for Humanity, Victoria Housing Authority, and Victoria Area Homeless Coalition in which the city serves. As a CDBG grantee, the city must meet HUD regulations by adopting a 5-Year Consolidated Plan and Strategy (CPS). We are currently operating under the 2nd year of the 2015-2019 CPS. Activities listed in the 1-Year Action Plan to be consistent with the priorities and funding levels established by the 5-Year CPS. For reasons explained below, the City amended the 2015-2019 CPS. The change in use of funds of more than $100,000 is a “substantial amendment,” which requires a public comment period, a public hearing, and formal City Council approval. The three categories in the amendment not to be undertaken in the remaining three years of the 2015-2019 CPS and reprogrammed to other CDBG priorities:

Affordable Housing – Habitat $ 56,000.00; Neighborhood Programs/Community Development (non- housing) Code Enforcement - $160,000.00; Neighborhood Clean-ups- $ 25,000.00; Total Amount $241,000.00

Amended Consolidated Plan & Strategy - Habitat for Humanity is now constructing homes in a subdivision that is not within a CDBG-eligible Census block group and no eligible Habitat location is expected within the remaining years of the current CPS. This amendment will allocate the funds to the Mortgage Assistance Program. During the 1st year of the CPS, the City allocated CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement officer. Revised HUD regulations require Code Enforcement activities to leverage public and private improvements within CDBG-eligible Census block groups, so funds are allocate to the Demolition/Clearance program. Revised HUD regulations have also affected the Neighborhood Clean-up activity changing to a Public Service Activity (PSA) that are subject to a 15% cap. The remaining reprogrammed funds shall fund Public Infrastructure Improvement activities to the following activities: Affordable Housing - Mortgage Assistance Program $ 35,530.00;

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Neighborhood Programs/Community Development (non-housing) Demolition -$ 81,140.00; Public Infrastructure Improvements -$124,330.00; Total Amount $241,000.00.

Minor Amendment #2 is funding reallocation of less than $100,000 and there will be no changes of the priorities within this minor amendment. Activity priorities remain unchanged, although realignments are necessary to allow the program goals, objectives, and activity benefits from the Consolidated Plan through each consecutive Action Plan Year to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. Funding allocation within the 5-year plan will be as follows: 1. Public Facility Special Needs increase $35,000, Children & Youth Services reduction ($14,878), Mental Health & Services increase $3,420, Neglected & Abused Children reduction ($24,542) & Senior & Disabled Services reduction $1,000 for a total offset reallocation amount of $39,420.

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

Table 47 - Geographic Priority Areas 1 Area Name: City of Victoria Area Type: Jurisdiction Wide Other Target Area Description: Jurisdiction Wide HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries for this target This boundary encompasses all of the area. area within the City of Victoria City Limits. Include specific housing and commercial characteristics No specific data. of this target area. How did your consultation and citizen participation Not applicable. This is jurisdiction process help you to identify this neighborhood as a wide. target area? Identify the needs in this target area. This is jurisdiction wide and all needs identified are applicable. What are the opportunities for improvement in this This is jurisdiction wide and all target area? iopportunities identified are applicable. Are there barriers to improvement in this target area? Not applicable. This is jurisdiction wide. 2 Area Name: Swan Crossing Area Type: The land purchaed by the City of Victoria to grant or sell based on a waiver received June 22, 1999 Other Target Area Description: The land purchaed by the City of Victoria to grant or sell based on a waiver received June 22, 1999 HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type:

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Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries for this target area. Include specific housing and commercial characteristics of this target area. How did your consultation and citizen participation process help you to identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. What are the opportunities for improvement in this target area? Are there barriers to improvement in this target area? 3 Area Name: Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Area Type: Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Other Target Area Description: Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries for this target area. Include specific housing and commercial characteristics of this target area. How did your consultation and citizen participation process help you to identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. What are the opportunities for improvement in this target area? Are there barriers to improvement in this target area?

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General Allocation Priorities

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

Currently in the City of Victoria, the CDBG investments are allocated primarily to the low and moderate income block groups. There are 19 census block groups that are eligible based on the population’s income. For the block groups indicated, the Household Area Median Family Income (HAMFI) percentages for eligible low-income concentrations must be >51%. Therefore those block groups are eligible to receive CDBG funding. When looking at the map above, the areas marked in yellow are those with a high concentration of low to moderate income households. In the past Consolidated Plans of the City of Victoria the CDBG expenditures were prioritized as local Target Neighborhood strategies. The City has moved away from a local target area strategy to fund activities in the all the eligible 19 low and moderate income census block groups.

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Low to Moderate income Census Block Groups, 2010

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

Table 48 – Priority Needs Summary 1 Priority Swan Crossing Initiatives Need Name Priority Level High Population Low Moderate Other Geographic The land purchased by the City of Victoria to grant or sell based on a waiver Areas received June 22, 1999 Affected Associated Owner-Occupied New Housing Construction Goals Description This activity meets the primary objective of providing decent housing by funding the realtor fees incurred from the sale of lots and the installation of infrastructure for Swan Crossing Subdivision. The activity facilitates new housing development for low- and moderate-income homebuyers. Basis for The priority is rated as high based on the need of affordable housing in the City. It is Relative also rated high based on surveys, one-on-one consultations and round table Priority discussions. 2 Priority Need Homeownership Assistance Name Priority Level High Population Low Moderate Other Geographic The land purchased by the City of Victoria to grant or sell based on a waiver Areas received June 22, 1999 Affected Associated Direct Homeownership Assistance Goals Description This activity provides grants of up to $5,000 for low and moderate-income homebuyers to purchase homes in the Swan Crossing Subdivision. Grants may cover 50% of the down payment, closing costs as well as principal reduction as determined by the homeowner’s gap analysis.

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Basis for The priority is rated as high based on surveys, one-on-one consultations and round Relative table discussions. This need assists homebuyers, whose gross income is less than Priority 80% HAMFI with down payment, closing cost assistance, principal buy down and realtor fees. This activity has shown a continued need for affordable housing. 3 Priority Need Habitat for Humanity Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Other Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas The land purchased by the City of Victoria to grant or sell based on a waiver Affected received June 22, 1999 Associated Owner-Occupied New Housing Construction Goals Description This activity provides lots in the Swan Crossing Subdivision and up to $7,500 per lot to assist with eligible infrastructure development costs such as sidewalks, driveways, and utility connections. Habitat will constructs single-family homes and increase the availability of low-income housing. The funding 5 year CPS are reprogrammed through the 2015-2017 CPS Amendment to other high priority eligible activities. Basis for The priority is rated as high based on surveys, round table, one-on-one Relative consultations and City staff knowledge of the housing conditions in the City of Priority Victoria. This need is to address the homebuyers that are 35-60% HAMFI to qualify for an affordable home through Habitat for Humanity with an interest free loan. 4 Priority Need Housing Rehabilitation- Community Risk Reduction Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Elderly Elderly Frail Elderly Other

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Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Affected Associated Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation- Goals Description Installation of wheelchair ramps, smoke detectors, and provide fire safety training. To provide the community with 10 safe and accessible homes; as public services and funding are identified. Basis for The priority is rated as high based on City staff knowledge of the housing Relative rehabilitation conditions in the City of Victoria. This need is for elderly and disabled Priority persons in need of ramps that were shown as a population in great need. Also this program will teach homeowners fire safety and the installation of smoke detectors. 5 Priority Need Increase Affordable Rental Housing Name Priority Level Low Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Other

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Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Increase Affordable Rental Housing Goals Description To provide assistance as the responsible entity for the Victoria Housing Authority (VHA) and Continuum of Care (CoC) with technical assistance and environmental review. Basis for The priority is rated as low based on City staff knowledge of the rental housing Relative conditions in the City of Victoria. The City of Victoria is the responsible entity for the Priority Victoria Housing Authority (VHA) and will provide them with technical assistance and environmental review. 6 Priority Need Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP) Name Priority Level High Population Low Moderate Other Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Direct Homeownership Assistance Goals Description This activity will provide grants of up to $2,500 for first-time homebuyers to cover closing costs and a portion of the down payment for the purchase of a home. Low- and moderate-income households are eligible for assistance through this program, and homes can be purchased anywhere in the City. Funding from the reprogrammed 2015-2017 CPS Amendment are allocated to this high priority eligible activity. Basis for The priority is rated as high based on one-on-one consultations, round table Relative discussions, surveys, and City staff knowledge of the housing conditions in the City Priority of Victoria. This need assists homebuyers whose gross income is less than 80% HAMFI which has shown a continued need for affordable housing within the City of Victoria. 7 Priority Need Code Enforcement Name Priority Level High

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Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Geographic Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Areas Affected Associated Code Enforcement Goals Description This activity provides general code enforcement activities, which involve preserving and protecting low- and moderate-income areas against the harmful effects of deterioration caused by neglect and deferred maintenance. This program funds approximately 50% of two Code Enforcement Officers salaries who work in CDBG- eligible census tracts throughout the City. The funding for the 2nd year through the 5th year are reprogrammed through the 2015-2017 CPS Amendment to other high priority eligible activities. Basis for The priority is rated as high based on input from surveys, one-on-one consultations, Relative round table discussions and input from code enforcement officers. This priority was Priority rated high due to the continuous need to ensure neighborhoods have decent living environments and continue to be sustainable. 8 Priority Need Demolition Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Geographic Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Areas Affected Associated Clearance and Demolition Goals Description This activity meets the primary objective of providing a suitable living environment through the clearance of debris and removal of dilapidated, abandoned or burned structures to increase the sustainability in targeted low to moderate-income neighborhoods. Funding from the reprogrammed 2015-2017 CPS Amendment are allocated to this high priority eligible activity.

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Basis for The priority is rated as high based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round Relative table discussions and City staff knowledge of the non-housing community Priority development needs in the City of Victoria. This is rated a high priority to ensure neighborhoods are decent, and provide safe living environments. 9 Priority Need Neighborhood Clean-Up Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Non-housing Community Development Geographic Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Areas Affected Associated Neighborhood Clean-Ups Goals Description This activity will coordinate residents, volunteers, and local agencies in a concentrated effort to clean-up neighborhoods located in low-income Census Block Groups and liter abatements. The goal is to improve the physical condition and appearance of the neighborhoods. The program provides support through the recruitment and management of donations, volunteers and projects for this area benefit activity. The funding 5 year CPS are reprogrammed through the 2015-2017 CPS Amendment to other high priority eligible activities. Basis for The priority is rated as high based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round Relative table discussions and City staff knowledge of the condition of the low-income Priority neighborhood environments in the City of Victoria. This priority is to ensure neighborhoods are decent, and provide safe living environments, and also helps to develop community pride. 10 Priority Need Park Improvements Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Geographic Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Areas Affected

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Associated Public Improvements Goals Description This activity will fund the purchase of new playground equipment and fall zone protection that will meet safety regulations for parks. The equipment will be purchased through the State of Texas Buy Board cooperative agreement. The Community Center Park lies in Census Block Group 202.2 and serves a one mile radius that incorporates Census Block Groups 201.3, 302.2, 302.1 and 202.1. Funding from the reprogrammed 2015-2017 CPS Amendment are allocated to a high priority Public Improvement eligible activity. Basis for The priority is based on input from surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table Relative discussions and input from the Parks and Recreation Department about the park Priority needs in the City of Victoria. This priority is rated as high due to an increased demand for parks that are safe and promote health, wellness and family environments. 11 Priority Need Transit Shelters Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Geographic Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Areas Affected Associated Public Improvements Goals Description This activity will provide transit shelters and benches located in the low and moderate income neighborhoods. These improvements will allow increased accessibility and availability of public transportation for residents in these areas. Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the community development needs in the City of Priority Victoria. This priority was based on the increased ridership of the transit system and provides transportation for the low and extremely low income persons and Para- transit for the disabled. 12 Priority Need Sidewalk Improvements Name Priority Level High

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Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Geographic Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Areas Affected Associated Public Infrastructure Improvements Goals Description This activity meets the primary objective of providing a suitable living environment by adding sidewalks to increase accessible and available safe walking routes that serve persons located in conjoining low and moderate-income neighborhoods. Funding from the reprogrammed 2015-2017 CPS Amendment are allocated to a high priority Public Improvement eligible activity. Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the community development needs in the City of Priority Victoria. Priorities on sidewalks were high to improve the City’s walk ability and increase safety for low income persons. 13 Priority Need Subsistence Support Services Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly Elderly Frail Elderly Non-housing Community Development Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Homelessness Prevention Goals Public Service Agency/Subsistence Support Service Description Public Service Agency programs that provide the basic needs to low-income persons such as utility assistance and eviction prevention generally for the purpose to prevent homelessness or support assistance for the low-mod income families and/or persons. Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 135 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the City of Victoria. This Priority need was rated high because the assistance provided is basic needs such as water for low-income households. 14 Priority Need Children & Youth Services Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Goals Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser

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Description This public service agency activity is for services that benefit children generally under 13 years old for after-school services and summer camp programs. This Public Service Facility provides construction or the rehabilitation of center/facility for the special needs populations that are disabled mentally, physically, and developmentally disabled. The 2018 Minor Amendment is necessary to allow for goals, objectives and activity benefits to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. This amendment is required for transparency necessary to properly redistribute funding within the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan as follows:  Public Facility Special Needs funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $35,000  Children & Youth Services funding overage in the 5-year plan ($14,878 )  Mental Health & Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 3,420  Neglected & Abused Children funding overage ($24,542)  Senior & Disabled Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 1,000 Total Funding reallocations ($39,420) $39,420

Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the City of Victoria. This public Priority service ranked highly due to a need to provide children and youth safe and structured environments. 15 Priority Need Employment/Job Training Services Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Individuals Families with Children

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Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Public Service Activity Employment/ Job Training Goals Description This activity provides services for at-risk and/or homeless low-income persons to empower and motivate them to seek continued education and employment opportunities. The job-training instruction should include, accelerated instruction, practical application and leadership development through entrepreneurship training. The services will provide the participants opportunities to engage in on- the-job and conflict resolution training, entrepreneurship principles and create a plan for future goals. Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions, Relative and City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the City of Victoria. The basis Priority of this priority is to provide assistance for basic job training needs of the homeless and at risk populations to use as a stepping stone to becoming self-sufficient. 16 Priority Need Mental Health & Wellness Services Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Chronic Homelessness Individuals Mentally Ill Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Public Service Activity/Mental Health and Wellness Goals

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Description This activity provides mental health and wellness support services for severely disabled individuals. The service/treatment continuum provides transitional housing, respite, outreach services, outpatient medical and counseling for individuals with mental health needs. This Public Service Facility provides construction or the rehabilitation of center/facility for the special needs populations that are disabled mentally, physically, and developmentally disabled. The 2018 Minor Amendment is necessary to allow for goals, objectives and activity benefits to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. This amendment is required for transparency necessary to properly redistribute funding within the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan as follows:  Public Facility Special Needs funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $35,000  Children & Youth Services funding overage in the 5-year plan ($14,878)  Mental Health & Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 3,420  Neglected & Abused Children funding overage ($24,542)  Senior & Disabled Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 1,000 Total Funding reallocations ($39,420) $39,420

Basis for The priority is based on one-on-one consultations, round table discussions, citizen Relative participation surveys, and City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the Priority City of Victoria. This need was ranked as high due to the need of the at-risk homeless, homeless and disabled persons to receive supportive services for individuals with multiple diagnoses to help them manage their illness, health behaviors, and provide them with psychiatric services, and 24-hour crisis/ respite services. 17 Priority Need Homeless & At-Risk Homeless Prevention Services Name Priority Level High

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Population Families with Children Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Non-housing Community Development Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Goals Description Public Service Agency support services to enable homeless and at-risk homeless children services and persons to achieve self-sufficiency. These services will provide them support and stability to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. The 2018 minor amendment priorities remain unchanged, although realignments are necessary to allow the program goals, objectives, and activity benefits from the Consolidated Plan through each consecutive Action Plan Year to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the City of Victoria. This high Priority ranking priority is based on the necessity of these support services to enable homeless and at-risk homeless persons to achieve self-sufficiency. These services will provide them support and stability to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. 18 Priority Need Senior and/ or Disabled Services Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Elderly Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected

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Associated Public Service Activity/Senior &/or Disabled Serv. Goals Description Public Service Agency services that provide for the elderly and disabled low-income persons. This population is cost burdened due to minimal monthly incomes and inabilities to perform necessary activities to sustain households. These services will provide the basic needs services to low-income persons who are struggling to provide for all of their needs. This Public Service Facility provides construction or the rehabilitation of center/facility for the special needs populations that are disabled mentally, physically, and developmentally disabled. The 2018 Minor Amendment is necessary to allow for goals, objectives and activity benefits to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. This amendment is required for transparency necessary to properly redistribute funding within the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan as follows:  Public Facility Special Needs funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $35,000  Children & Youth Services funding overage in the 5-year plan ($14,878)  Mental Health & Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 3,420  Neglected & Abused Children funding overage ($24,542)  Senior & Disabled Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 1,000 Total Funding reallocations ($39,420) $39,420

Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the City of Victoria. This Priority population is at a higher percentage risk of being cost burdened due to minimal monthly incomes and inabilities to perform necessary activities to sustain households. These services will provide the basic needs services to low-income persons who are struggling to provide for all of their needs. 19 Priority Need Homeless Shelter Name Priority Level High

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Population Extremely Low Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Public Facility Homeless Facility Shelter Goals Description The assistance is for Public Service Agency Facilities for the construction, conversion, renovation of shelters for homeless and battered women and men Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public facility needs in the City of Victoria. This high Priority ranked public facility involves the need for increased shelter capacity and to provide more beds for the homeless on a nightly basis, these decent living environments will provide safe and secure emergency and/ or transitional housing. 20 Priority Need Youth Centers Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Families with Children Non-housing Community Development Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Affected Associated Public Facility Youth Centers Goals

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Description This Public Service Center/Facility that provide services for children and youth ages 13 to 19. Funding is for the installation or upgrade of playgrounds and the facilities providing structured, safe and healthy atmosphere for the children. The 2018 minor amendment priorities remain unchanged, although realignments are necessary to allow the program goals, objectives, and activity benefits from the Consolidated Plan through each consecutive Action Plan Year to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries.

Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public facility needs in the City of Victoria. This Priority public facility is a high priority due to the need to provide children and youth structured environments that promote education, safety, and wellness. 21 Priority Need Special Needs Population Facilities Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Public Facility for Special Needs Populations Goals

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Description This Public Service Facility provides construction or the rehabilitation of center/facility for the special needs populations that are disabled mentally, physically, and developmentally disabled. The 2018 Minor Amendment is necessary to allow for goals, objectives and activity benefits to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. This amendment is required for transparency necessary to properly redistribute funding within the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan as follows:  Public Facility Special Needs funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $35,000  Children & Youth Services funding overage in the 5-year plan ($14,878)  Mental Health & Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 3,420  Neglected & Abused Children funding overage ($24,542)  Senior & Disabled Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 1,000 Total Funding reallocations ($39,420) $39,420

Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public facility needs in the City of Victoria. This high Priority ranked priority basis was the increasing need of shelter capacity to provide persons with presumed benefits of a safe and secure environment for emergency or transitional housing. The shelter remains at full capacity and is an asset for the homeless and the victims of domestic violence. 22 Priority Need Administration Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected

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Associated Adminstration Goals Description This activity involves the oversight and administration of CDBG funds and activities, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and the effective use of program funds. This activity includes working along with low- and moderate income neighborhoods and building capacity among citizens and organizations in those neighborhoods. Program Administration also includes submitting future grant proposals and applications for other housing and community development activities. Basis for The priority is to ensure the strategic plan is managed and overseen throughout the Relative 5- year consolidated plan and the annual action plan. Priority 23 Priority Need Abused & Neglected Children Name Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Other Geographic Jurisdiction Wide Areas Affected Associated Public Service-Abused and Neglected Children Goals

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Description Provide available and accessible assistance to offset costs of 3 full-time case worker supervisors to support services, direct work and to train CASA volunteers that are appointed Guardians Ad Litem that advocate for 80 neglected children who have been removed from abusive homes and placed in foster care. This Public Service Facility provides construction or the rehabilitation of center/facility for the special needs populations that are disabled mentally, physically, and developmentally disabled. The 2018 Minor Amendment is necessary to allow for goals, objectives and activity benefits to properly flow and allow for the correct count of beneficiaries. This amendment is required for transparency necessary to properly redistribute funding within the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan as follows:  Public Facility Special Needs funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $35,000  Children & Youth Services funding overage in the 5-year plan ($14,878)  Mental Health & Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 3,420  Neglected & Abused Children funding overage ($24,542)  Senior & Disabled Services funding shortfall in the 5-year plan $ 1,000 Total Funding reallocations ($39,420) $39,420

Basis for The priority is based on surveys, one-on-one consultations, round table discussions Relative and City staff knowledge of the public service needs in the City of Victoria. This Priority public service ranked highly due to a need to provide advocates for abused and neglected children that have been put into foster care for safe and structured environments.

Narrative (Optional)

The Five-year Consolidated Plan must detail the general priorities for allocating investment of available resources among different needs. Priority needs, are those that will be addressed by the goals outlined in the strategic plan section of the Five-year Consolidated Plan. These priority needs are then broken down into high and low priority needs. The tables are shown in Table 43(a) – Priority Needs Summary

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and Table 43(b)-Priority Needs which are optional tables in the Consolidated Plan. No changes will be made in priorities within the 2017 Amended CPS.

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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 Tenant based rental assistance is vital for households with low and extremely Rental Assistance low incomes in the City of Victoria. The need for affordable rental housing will (TBRA) influence the use of funds in this area. TBRA for Non- Many of the public housing units owned and managed by the VHA are used by Homeless Special members of the community that have special needs. These members can Needs include the elderly or handicapped and their families. New Unit Currently there is a demand for more affordable housing in the City of Victoria. Production Groups such as the Gulf Bend Wellness Community and Swan Crossing Neighborhood have given assistance to help increase the number of affordable rental and owner-occupied housing units. Currently there is a demand for more affordable housing in the City of Victoria. Groups such as the Gulf Bend Wellness Community and Swan Crossing Neighborhood have given assistance to help increase the number of affordable rental and owner-occupied housing units. Rehabilitation Currently in the City of Victoria there are no plans to address specific housing rehabilitation projects during this Five-year plan. A high priority was determined for ramps and a community risk program for installation of smoke detectors and fire safety training that falls under the housing rehabilitation activity matrix code. Acquisition, Currently in the City of Victoria there are no plans to fund new acquisition of including property or lands during this Five-year plan. However, the Swan Crossing New preservation Housing Initiatives will continue to be funded for the sale of properties until all properties in the 55 lot subdivision have been sold. Table 49 – Influence of Market Conditions

Demographic Overview

In Table 5 above, shows the population, number of households, median income for the base year and the most recent year, then calculates the percentage of change. This data indicates an overall population increase from 60,603 in the year 2000 to 62,322 in the 2011 American Community Survey (ACS), a 3% increase in population.

The household demographics for 2000 were 22,045 and increased to 23,508, a 7% increase in households. The median income saw an increase from 36,829 to 44,803, a 22% increase in median income.

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

Introduction

The Five Year Consolidated Plan must identify the federal, state, local and private resources expected to be available to the City to address priority needs and specific objectives identified in the Strategic Plan. These resources are summarized in Table 45.

The City of Victoria is anticipating $508,170 in CDBG funding for the 2015/2016 program year, these funds can then be used over the course of the 2015/2016 program year and subsequent program years. During the course of this five-year consolidated plan the City of Victoria is expected to receive $2,500,000 in CDBG funding. These funds will be used for CDBG eligible activities consistent with the current goals and objectives identified in the Five Year Consolidated Plan. CDBG funds will be used for housing and community development activities including, but not limited to, neighborhood programs, public services, affordable housing, public facilities, public improvements and program administration of the City's CDBG program. During the 2014/2015 Program year the CDBG funding was $561,032 this accounts for a total decrease of $52,862. Much like in the previous year, there is a possibility of another decrease in CDBG funding as more cities become entitlement cities and HUD/ CDBG programs receive less federal funding.

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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 $ $ $ Remainder of ConPlan $ CDBG public - Acquisition Funds will be used according to the federal Admin and noted priorities to include Program Planning Administration, Neighborhood Programs, Economic Public Services, Affordable Housing, Development Public Facilities and Public Housing Improvements. Public Improvements Public Services 508,170 67,500 20,292 595,962 2,000,000 Table 50 - Anticipated Resources

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

Presently in the City of Victoria, there is not a matching requirement to receive CDBG funds. Non-profit partners are able to leverage City of Victoria funds with other private, state, and local funds to provide additional services and support for residents receiving assistance through the program.

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

Not Applicable

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Discussion

The City of Victoria’s anticipated funding allocation from CDBG will address many of the City’s goals, including improving neighborhood programs, public services, affordable housing, public facilities, public improvements and program administration. As well, in the neighborhood of Swan Crossing, the number of affordable housing units available is being increased, by granting, income eligible first time homebuyer’s down payment and closing cost assistance, principal buy-down and realtor fees associated with the sale of lots.

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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 Type Served VICTORIA Government Economic Jurisdiction Development Homelessness Ownership Planning neighborhood improvements public facilities public services Victoria County Public Government Non-homeless special Jurisdiction Health Department needs (VCPHD) Boys & Girls Club of Non-profit public facilities Jurisdiction Victoria organizations public services Christ's Kitchen Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction organizations Faith Family Church Community/Faith- Homelessness Jurisdiction based organization neighborhood improvements public facilities public services Food Bank of the Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction Golden Crescent organizations Non-homeless special needs public services Housing Authority of PHA Public Housing Jurisdiction the City of Victoria Rental HABITAT FOR Non-profit Ownership Jurisdiction HUMANITY organizations MID-COAST FAMILY Continuum of care Homelessness Jurisdiction SERVICES, INC. public facilities public services Perpetual Help Home Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction organizations public facilities public services

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Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Role Geographic Area Type Served Restoration House Community/Faith- Homelessness Jurisdiction Ministries based organization public facilities The Salvation Army Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction organizations public facilities public services Victoria Area Homeless Non-profit Homelessness Jurisdiction Coalition organizations COMMUNITY ACTION Non-profit public services Jurisdiction COMMITTEE OF organizations VICTORIA YMCA Non-profit public facilities Jurisdiction organizations public services GULF BEND MHMR Non-profit Non-homeless special Jurisdiction CENTER organizations needs Rental public facilities public services KIDZconnection - Other Homelessness Jurisdiction Victoria Independent public services School District Golden Crescent Court Non-profit Homelessness Appointed Special organizations public services Advocates Victoria Economic Other Economic Jurisdiction Development Development Planning Table 51 - Institutional Delivery Structure

Assess of Strengths and Gaps in the Institutional Delivery System

Table 46 shows the Institutional Delivery structure through which the City of Victoria will carry out its strategic plan. Although not every organization is listed, those that are listed show the scope of services available in the City of Victoria. One of the major strengths in the Institutional Delivery System for the City of Victoria is the wide range of issues that it provides assistance for. Residents can be assisted through programs for food, eviction prevention, shelter, job training, mental health and wellness, affordable housing, rehabilitation, homeownership assistance, and many other activities. Through these programs the hope is that as many of the homeless and low-incomes needs are addressed as possible. However, some gaps in the Institutional Delivery System do still occur. Presently there is a shortage of

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affordable housing in the City of Victoria, which is causing a housing burden on the very low-income and low-income residents of the City as shown below in Table 47.

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 X Legal Assistance X Mortgage Assistance X Rental Assistance X X X Utilities Assistance X Street Outreach Services Law Enforcement X Mobile Clinics X 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 X HIV/AIDS X X Life Skills X Mental Health Counseling X X X Transportation X X Other

Table 52 - Homeless Prevention Services Summary

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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)

As detailed in the section above, the Continuum of Care (CoC) has transferred the management of Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) through the Balance of State to the Texas Homeless Network (THN). THN allows local organizations/agencies to communicate information about services provided to individuals and families to better serve the most immediate needs of the homeless and eliminate the duplication of services. The City of Victoria continues to identify additional organizations to collaborate with to help meet the needs of the homeless. The Food Bank of the Golden Crescent provides a Kid’s Backpack Feeding Program serving healthy backpack meals to homeless children. The Perpetual Help Home has an Opportunity Knocks program which helps at risk and/or homeless women with job training and developing leadership skills. The VISD/ KIDZconnection provide homeless students assistance for basic needs, tutoring, and provide services for the students who are unaccompanied youths in the City of Victoria. There are also several homeless shelters in the City of Victoria, such as Perpetual Help Home, Salvation Army, House of Dreams, and Women’s Crisis Center which provide extended housing to the homeless, allowing them to get back to independent living, as well as emergency shelters to help the chronically homeless.

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

One of the major strengths of the service delivery system for the City is the ability to provide a wide range of services. The City has a transit system in place that allows citizens to get around the city and reach any help that they require. The major gap in serving special needs populations is housing. Beside Public Housing and Section 8 there is insufficient affordable rental housing for the extremely low income persons. There are 140 households on the waiting list for 1 bedroom housing in the City. Without the availability of affordable rental housing the cost burden of housing can drive some persons into homelessness. Another difficulty the city is facing is that once these people become homeless, the current homeless facilities are operating at full capacity.

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

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SP-45 Goals Summary – 91.215(a)(4)

Goals Summary Information

Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 1 Owner-Occupied New 2015 2019 Affordable City of Victoria Habitat for CDBG: Homeowner Housing Added: Housing Construction Housing Swan Crossing Humanity $500 1 Household Housing Unit Swan Crossing Initiatives 2 Direct 2015 2019 Affordable City of Victoria Homeownership CDBG: Direct Financial Assistance to Homeownership Housing Swan Crossing Assistance $80,530 Homebuyers: Assistance Mortgage 24 Households Assisted Assistance Program (MAP) 3 Owner-Occupied 2015 2019 Affordable City of Victoria Housing CDBG: Homeowner Housing Housing Housing Low to Rehabilitation- $50,000 Rehabilitated: Rehabilitation- Moderate Community Risk 10 Household Housing Unit Income Census Reduction Block Groups in the City of Victoria 4 Increase Affordable 2015 2019 Affordable City of Victoria Increase Affordable CDBG: $0 Public Facility or Rental Housing Housing Rental Housing Infrastructure Activities for Public Housing Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 0 Households Assisted

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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 5 Code Enforcement 2015 2019 Non-Housing Low to Code Enforcement CDBG: Housing Code Community Moderate $46,000 Enforcement/Foreclosed Development Income Census Property Care: Block Groups 750 Household Housing Unit in the City of Victoria 6 Clearance and 2015 2019 Affordable Low to Demolition CDBG: Buildings Demolished: Demolition Housing Moderate $141,140 23 Buildings Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria 7 Neighborhood Clean- 2015 2019 Non-Housing Low to Neighborhood CDBG: $0 Other: Ups Community Moderate Clean-Up 0 Other Development Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria 8 Public Improvements 2015 2019 Non-Housing Low to Park Improvements CDBG: Public Facility or Community Moderate Transit Shelters $757,000 Infrastructure Activities other Development Income Census than Low/Moderate Income Block Groups Housing Benefit: in the City of 21500 Persons Assisted Victoria

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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 9 Public Infrastructure 2015 2019 Non-Housing Low to Sidewalk CDBG: Public Facility or Improvements Community Moderate Improvements $154,000 Infrastructure Activities other Development Income Census than Low/Moderate Income Block Groups Housing Benefit: in the City of 5730 Persons Assisted Victoria 10 Public Service 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Subsistence CDBG: Public service activities other Agency/Subsistence Community Support Services $50,000 than Low/Moderate Income Support Service Development Housing Benefit: 3640 Persons Assisted 11 Public Service Activity 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Children & Youth CDBG: Public service activities other for Children and Community Services $60,122 than Low/Moderate Income Youth Ser Development Housing Benefit: 175 Persons Assisted 12 Public Service Activity 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Employment/Job CDBG: Public service activities other Employment/ Job Job Training Training Services $35,000 than Low/Moderate Income Training Housing Benefit: 300 Persons Assisted 13 Public Service 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Mental Health & CDBG: Public service activities other Activity/Mental Community Wellness Services $38,420 than Low/Moderate Income Health and Wellness Development Housing Benefit: 13 Persons Assisted 14 Homelessness & At- 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Children & Youth CDBG: Public service activities other Risk Homelessness Community Services $100,000 than Low/Moderate Income Prevention Development Homeless & At-Risk Housing Benefit: Homeless 600 Persons Assisted Prevention Services

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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 15 Homelessness 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Subsistence CDBG: Public service activities for Prevention Support Services $50,000 Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 310 Households Assisted 16 Public Service 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Senior and/ or CDBG: Public service activities other Activity/Senior &/or Community Disabled Services $51,000 than Low/Moderate Income Disabled Serv. Development Housing Benefit: 140 Persons Assisted 17 Public Facility 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Homeless Shelter CDBG: Public Facility or Homeless Facility $150,000 Infrastructure Activities for Shelter Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 28 Households Assisted 18 Public Facility Youth 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Youth Centers CDBG: Public Facility or Centers Community $150,000 Infrastructure Activities other Development than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 75 Persons Assisted 19 Public Facility for 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Special Needs CDBG: Homelessness Prevention: Special Needs Population $185,000 68 Persons Assisted Populations Facilities 20 Adminstration 2015 2019 Adminstration City of Victoria Administration CDBG: Other: $475,000 0 Other 21 Public Service-Abused 2015 2019 Abused and City of Victoria Abused & CDBG: Homelessness Prevention: and Neglected Neglected Neglected Children $22,250 80 Persons Assisted Children Children Table 53 – Goals Summary

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Goal Descriptions

1 Goal Name Owner-Occupied New Housing Construction Goal This initiative will be used to provide an increased accessibility and availability of decent affordable homes. The Description substantial amendment in 2017 will reprogram $56,000 allocated for Habitat for Humanity will be reprogrammed into other eligible program and the priority will remain in place. 2 Goal Name Direct Homeownership Assistance Goal This program will be used to provide an increased availability of decent affordable homes. The substaintial amendment in Description 2017 will allocate additional funding for Mortgage Assistance in the amount of $35,530. 3 Goal Name Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation- Goal Create a decent, accessible, and safer community through installation of wheelchair ramps, smoke detectors, and fire Description safety training to residents. 4 Goal Name Increase Affordable Rental Housing Goal Support developers who wish to utilize the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program that satisfies the requirements. Description 5 Goal Name Code Enforcement Goal To continue to create a suitable and sustainable living environment through code enforcement. The substaintial Description amendment will reprogram funding allocated for 2016-2019 CPS into other eligible programs but the priority will remain in place. 6 Goal Name Clearance and Demolition Goal Provide a sustainable and suitable living environment through the clearance of debris and removal of dilapidated Description structures from vacant or substandard property in targeted neighborhood. The substantial amendment in 2017 will allocate additional funding for Clearance and Demolition in the amount of $81,140.

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7 Goal Name Neighborhood Clean-Ups Goal Provide a sustainable living environment by preventing low income neighborhoods from deteriorating. Neighborhood Description clean-ups through the 5-Year Consolidated Plan will be evaluated as public services and funding are identified. The substantial amendment in 2017 will reprogram the $25,000 funding into other eligible programs but the priority will remain in place. 8 Goal Name Public Improvements Goal Create a suitable living environment by providing available and accessible safe parks. A second public improvement is to Description provide residents with safer, accessible and affordable mobile transportation. Provide assistance for 5 park improvements and 3 transit shelters throughout the 5-Year Consolidated Plan. 9 Goal Name Public Infrastructure Improvements Goal To create a suitable living environment by increasing mobility through accessibility and availability of sidewalks. The Description substantial amendment in 2017 will allocate additional funding for Public Infrastructure Improvements in the amount of $124,330.00. 10 Goal Name Public Service Agency/Subsistence Support Service Goal Provide accessible and affordable assistance for water/ utility bills to low income families. Description 11 Goal Name Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser Goal Provide accessible and affordable assistance to the low-income children and youth during the summer and school year. Description 12 Goal Name Public Service Activity Employment/ Job Training Goal To provide accessible and affordable employment/ job training for at-risk homeless persons. Description 13 Goal Name Public Service Activity/Mental Health and Wellness Goal To increase availability of accessible and affordable care for residents with mental health issues. Description

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14 Goal Name Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Goal To provide decent and accessible support services to children and youth to prevent homelessness. Description 15 Goal Name Homelessness Prevention Goal To provide decent and accessible support services to individuals to prevent homelessness. Description 16 Goal Name Public Service Activity/Senior &/or Disabled Serv. Goal To provide seniors and disabled through accessible and affordable services. Description 17 Goal Name Public Facility Homeless Facility Shelter Goal To provide a decent and accessible living environment for the homeless. Description 18 Goal Name Public Facility Youth Centers Goal To provide an accessible and affordable safe environment for the City of Victoria youth by improving youth center Description facilities. 19 Goal Name Public Facility for Special Needs Populations Goal To provide accessible and affordable living environments for those with special needs. Description 20 Goal Name Administration Goal To provide salaries and services needed to administer CDBG funds. Description

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21 Goal Name Public Service-Abused and Neglected Children Goal This activity will provide assistance to offset the cost to employ 3-full-time case worker supervisors to support services Description and direct the work of trained CASA volunteers. The CASA volunteers are appointed Guardians Ad Litem (free of charge) to the children; as they advocate for the best interests of severely abused and neglected children in the City of Victoria. All of the children have been removed from their abusive homes and placed into the foster care system. 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 will provide owner-occupied affordable housing to approximately 20 low-income and moderate-income households, through programs such as the Swan Crossing Initiative, Homeownership Assistance, and Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity currently has 4 homes scheduled during the Five-year Consolidated Plan; however, at least 12 more are expected to be scheduled later as properties become available. The City is also expected to help 325 extremely low-income and low-income residents with eviction prevention assistance. Lastly, through water bill assistance the City of Victoria will provide assistance to 1,300 extremely low-income, low-income, and moderate income households. In the future, additional opportunities to provide more affordable rental housing by the city through the continuance to support developers who wish to utilize the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program that satisfy the Cities requirements.

Amended CPS will be a substantial amendment and will effect the following activities as described below.

Habitat $ 56,000.00

Code Enforcement - $160,000.00

Neighborhood Clean-ups- $ 25,000.00

Total Amount $241,000.00

Habitat for Humanity is now constructing homes in a subdivision that is not within a CDBG-eligible Census block group and no eligible Habitat location is expected to be available within the remaining years of the current CPS. To continue to address affordable housing-related CPS goals, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Mortgage Assistance Program.

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Prior to the current fiscal year, the City allocated CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement Officer to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments. Revised HUD regulations require Code Enforcement activities to be leveraged with public and private improvements within CDBG-eligible Census block groups. To continue to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Demolition/Clearance program.

Revised HUD regulations have also impacted the Neighborhood Clean-up activity, which is now classified as a Public Service Activity (PSA). PSAs are subject to a 15% cap, meaning only 15% of an annual CDBG allocation may be directed to PSAs. The remaining reprogrammed funds will be redirected to Public Infrastructure Improvement activities to further the CPS goals of creating suitable living environments and increasing the accessibility and availability of sidewalks. This proposed amendment will reprogram the remaining funding allocations from the above CPS activities to the following CDBG activities:

Mortgage Assistance Program $ 35,530.0

Demolition $ 81,140.00

Public Infrastructure Improvements $124,330.00

Total Amount $241,000.00

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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)

Currently in the City of Victoria, it is not required to increase the number of accessible units to meet Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement.

Activities to Increase Resident Involvements

The City of Victoria’s Public Housing Authority is committed to trying to increase the resident involvement. Currently there is the Resident Advisory Board that any person can join as long as they are a resident of the community. They also offer many programs such as mobile dental exams and job training to the community.

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

No

Plan to remove the ‘troubled’ designation

Not Applicable

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

Fair housing is crucial to ensuring that persons of low income levels have equal access to housing. HUD requires jurisdictions that receive federal funds to commit to affirmatively further fair housing. The City of Victoria has identified six problems facing affordable housing:

Neighborhood Deterioration- Efforts to sustain and revitalize neighborhoods will be carried out through demolition and code enforcement programs. These programs will seek to address neighborhood deterioration caused by neglect or lack of maintenance and foster neighborhood pride to deter further deterioration. The Code Enforcement and Neighborhood Clean-up activities will not be undertaken in the remaining years of the 2015-2019 CPS due to changes in HUD regulations and guidelines. Prior to the current fiscal year, the City allocated CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement Officer to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments. Revised HUD regulations require Code Enforcement activities to be leveraged with public and private improvements within CDBG-eligible Census block groups. The amount of leveraging required and the complexity associated with monitoring the leveraging activities made it impractical for the City to continue allocating CDBG funds for Code Enforcement activities. To continue to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Demolition/Clearance program.

Revised HUD regulations have also impacted the Neighborhood Clean-up activity, which is now classified as a Public Service Activity (PSA). PSAs are subject to a 15% cap, meaning only 15% of an annual CDBG allocation may be directed to PSAs. The City maximizes its 15% PSA cap to assist local social service organizations, which have a much more direct and beneficial impact on low/moderate income families and individuals than Neighborhood Clean-ups. Since we cannot increase our PSA allocation, the remaining reprogrammed funds will be redirected to Public Infrastructure Improvement activities to further the CPS goals of creating suitable living environments and increasing the accessibility and availability of sidewalks.

Inadequate Supply of Low Cost Homes- the Mortgage Assistance Program offers $2,500 in down payment and closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers. The New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Program at Swan Crossing offers up to $20,000 of assistance to homebuyers to purchase a new home in Swan Crossing.

 Inability to Obtain Safe Rental Housing- Rental housing assistance is currently being addressed through CDBG funds. The Eviction Prevention Programs can provide housing assistance for eligible renters if they are on the verge of eviction.  Need for Home Ownership Education- Home ownership education is addressed on a program basis. Prospective homebuyers participating in the New Housing Homebuyer Assistance

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Program are provided home ownership education before purchase. Homebuyers requiring education or classes may be directed to area resources by staff.  Need for Housing and Services for the Homeless- the City works with the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition to address the needs of the homeless. Water bill and eviction prevention assistance also aid in the prevention of homelessness.  Minimum Lot Size Requirements- Minimum lot size is a subdivision platting requirement established by City Code. No CDBG programs address this barrier; however, staff recognizes the potential hardship caused by this requirement.

Strategy to Remove or Ameliorate the Barriers to Affordable Housing

These barriers are a big issue to the City of Victoria, and correcting them is vital to ensure equal access to housing for persons at like income levels. Currently the City of Victoria does have strategies in place to address these barriers to affordable housing.

Neighborhood Deterioration- Efforts to sustain and revitalize neighborhoods will be carried out through demolition and code enforcement programs. During the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan year the city plans to demolish 10 homes that have deteriorated. These programs will seek to address neighborhood deterioration caused by neglect or lack of maintenance and foster neighborhood pride to deter further deterioration through demolition, and code enforcement. During the 2nd year of funding, the City can no longer allocate CDBG funds to cover the salary and benefits for one Code Enforcement Officer. To continue to address the CPS goal of preserving suitable and livable neighborhood environments, this amendment will allocate additional funds to the Demolition/Clearance program.

Inadequate Supply of Low Cost Homes-The Mortgage Assistance Program will be carried forward by providing down payment and closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers. The New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Housing Initiatives Programs at Swan Crossing offers up to $20,000 of assistance ($5000 to down payment assistance and closing cost, and a $15,000 lot) to homebuyers to purchase a new home. This program also assists first time homebuyers. Habitat for Humanity funding will be allocated to the Mortgage Assistance Program.

 Inability to Obtain Safe Rental Housing- Rental housing assistance is currently being addressed through CDBG funds. The Eviction Prevention Programs can provide housing assistance for eligible renters on the verge of eviction.  Need for Home Ownership Education- Home ownership education is addressed on a program basis. Prospective homebuyers currently participating in the New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Program are provided home ownership education before purchase. This service is being provided through the broker currently working with the City of Victoria in Swan Crossing. Homebuyers requiring education or classes may be directed to other area resources as necessary.  Need for Housing and Services for the Homeless- The City works with the Victoria Area Homeless Coalition to address the needs of the homeless. Water bill and eviction prevention

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assistance are available to aid in the prevention of homelessness. Gulf Bend is offering a new program to provide services to those with severe mental health issues. The Perpetual Help Home is offering job training services for the homeless and at risk homeless women. The city has also funded KIDZconnection to assist homeless students at Victoria Independent School District (VISD). Mid-Coast Family Services Women’s Crisis Center offers services for battered men and women and emergency shelter for women. These men and women are homeless that are fleeing their homes due to abuse, and women who are homeless.  Minimum Lot Size Requirements- Minimum lot size is a subdivision platting requirement established by City Code. No CDBG programs address this barrier; however, staff recognizes the potential hardship caused by this requirement.

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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 City of Victoria currently tries to address as many individual needs of the homeless as possible. In regards to the unsheltered homeless, their main needs are food and shelter. Many are currently provided with warm meals through the local soup kitchen called Christ’s Kitchen 6 days a week. There are currently 154 beds available to many different groups of homeless individuals, 72 of which are emergency housing beds. For those that are not unsheltered homeless, many of the shelters also provide education/job training programs.

Addressing the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons

The City of Victoria relies on CDBG funds and the resources of the non-profit agencies to address the emergency shelter needs. Presently the City of Victoria has 72 emergency housing beds, 40 transitional housing beds, and 6 treatment center beds. These beds are organized to meet the various different groups of homeless. Currently 28 of the emergency beds are just for homeless men, while 36 are used for mostly women, but men can be admitted, and there are also 8 individual/ family beds. All of the 40 transitional housing beds are currently only available to women and children.

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.

There are many mainstream social service agencies that provide services and programs to prevent homelessness, particularly education, job training, counseling, soup kitchen, emergency water bill assistance, life skills training, among others. Currently the City of Victoria through the Continuum of Care (CoC) has 36 permanent supportive housing beds to aid residents in getting back to independent living. Presently 18 of these permanent housing beds are designated to chronically homeless men, 9 to women and children, and 9 to families with disabilities.

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In order to shorten the amount of time that a person spends homeless the City currently provides 72 emergency shelter beds, and 40 transitional shelter beds. Many of these beds are available to any person that needs them; however, 28 emergency shelter beds are designated for just men, and all 40 transitional beds are for women and children only. Drug and alcohol rehabilitation is offered through many of the shelters. The City also provides job training to the homeless to help those looking for employment rejoin the work force.

The City provides water bill assistance, as well as eviction prevention assistance to its extremely low- income and low-income residents. These programs become very useful to shorten the period of homelessness and to prevent individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again.

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

One of the City of Victoria’s strategies for reducing homelessness is by providing programs and services for low income individuals and families that will hopefully prevent them from becoming homeless. One of these services is the Subsistence Support Services where it is possible for extremely low-income and low-income individuals to receive water utility assistance, food, and eviction prevention assistance. The City is also currently working to increase the number of affordable housing units in the City for extremely low-income and low-income individuals.

Many non-profit service providers in the city also provide assistance to low-income and extremely low- income individuals. Currently Habitat for Humanity builds affordable housing for low income individuals. The Salvation Army provides Stepping Stone a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program that can be used by individuals to help prepare them for re-entry into society. The Gulf Bend Wellness community is a Intermediate Care Facility with the primary goal being to move people with intellectual and developmental disabilities toward a higher level of independence.

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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

Approximately 39% of the City of Victoria’s homes may have lead based paint hazards. This is because a large portion of the homes within the city were built prior to 1980. Although the City recognizes a need to address lead-based paint hazards, the rising cost for addressing it are not feasible for the City to fund. Currently there are no plans to reduce the number of housing units containing lead-based paint hazards.

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

It is not the presence of lead based paint that causes hazards, however, but the exposure to the lead through dust or paint chips. Inadequately maintained homes and apartments are more likely to suffer from a range of lead hazards, including chipped and peeling paint and weathered window surfaces. The City recognizes the need to take action against lead poisoning hazards. However, the rising costs to address lead paint hazards are not feasible for the City to support. Presently though the Texas Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services, annually tests children under the age of 6 for elevated blood lead levels.

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

In 2001, HUD implemented regulations that required cities to address lead based paint hazards in their housing programs. From these regulations the cost to rehabilitate one house affected by lead based paint would cost an average of $4,000 or more per unit than one without a lead based paint hazard. The City recognizes a need for reducing the quantity of homes with lead based paint and will continue to support rehabilitation activities; however, due to rising costs and reduced funding it is not feasible to fund a program in the 2015-2019 program years.

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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

Currently the City of Victoria has approximately 18.5% of households living in poverty. This is higher than the statewide poverty level, which is presently 17.4%. To deal with this high level of poverty, the City of Victoria has a number of agencies that provide programs for reducing the number of poverty level families. These policies include:

 Increase the supply of affordable single-family housing for the city’s low income households.  Increase the supply of affordable rental housing for the city’s low-income households.  Preserve and create livable neighborhood environments.  Expand housing and services for a variety of special needs populations, including persons who are homeless and at risk of homelessness.  Provide funding to organizations that address the economic needs and social service needs of low-income households, including after school programs.

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

Much like the 2010-2015 consolidated plan, the 2015-2019 consolidated plan seeks to support programs that will improve the quality of life for a larger portion of the community, instead of a direct housing focus. Using CDBG funding, the City plans to use the following policies and programs to address the needs of its citizens who are currently in poverty.

 Increase the supply of affordable single-family housing for the city’s low income households.Use the Mortgage Assistance Program to provide financial assistance to first-time low-income homebuyer’s with down payment and closing costs.Use the New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Program for Swan Crossing to provide assistance with down payment, closing costs, principal buy-down and up to 3% of a realtor commission to maintain affordability.Support Habitat for Humanity with infrastructure and site development activities. The current subdivision they are building in is not within a CDBG-eligible Census block group and no eligible Habitat location is expected to be available within the remaining years of the current CPS.Provide subsistence support services, such as financial assistance with water/ utilities and eviction prevention to households that need it.  Increase the supply of affordable rental housing for the city’s low-income households.Support private developers who wish to utilize the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program to construct affordable rental housing. The City prefers developments located in Census Tracts where there is not an existing concentration of affordable housing.Support the Victoria Housing Authority in providing housing for the elderly, disabled and other special needs populations.Provide subsistence support services, such as financial assistance with water/ utilities, food, and eviction prevention to renters that need it.

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 Preserve and create livable neighborhood environments. Provide general code enforcement activities. Improve the appearance and sustainability of neighborhoods. Demolitions of substandard structures and work in spot blight areas.  Expand housing and services for a variety of special needs populations, including persons who are homeless and at risk of homelessness. Increase transitional housing and permanent supportive housing for persons with special needs, with priority for victims of domestic violence. Support employment/ job training services for the homeless and at-risk homeless. Increase transitional/ permanent housing of low-income mentally-ill persons. Provide funding for special needs population facilities. Support services directed towards the homeless, mentally-ill, and disabled. Support community risk programs such as adding wheelchair ramps and fire prevention/ smoke detector programs. Fund organizations that provide homeless prevention programs and emergency assistance to help prevent households or persons from becoming homeless. Provide support for Continuum of Care applications. Provide support to the Victoria Housing Authority through environmental reviews and release of funds.  Provide funding to organizations that address the economic needs and social service needs of low-income households, including after school programs. Support youth centers throughout the City. Support Children and Youth services including backpack program, after school daycare, and summer care.

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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 purpose of monitoring activities funded by HUD and the City of Victoria are to see that activities are successfully carried out, and to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. When the activity is to be performed by a sub-recipient, a contract between the sub-recipient and the City is approved by the City Council. The contract specifies what will be done with the money allocated and the rules and regulations that apply. The City attempts to follow the requirements set out in the comprehensive plan to the greatest extent possible.

The monitoring process consists of six steps:

 Notification to sub-recipient for scheduling of on-site monitoring visit.  Entrance conference with sub-recipient staff, to explain what will be done during the visit.  Review of documents justifying project expenditures and work completed or in progress, to determine the quality of the work and whether or not it complies with regulations and codes. Review program management pertaining to policies, procedures, regulations, forms, and contract, application, and draw request files.  Exit conference to report tentative conclusions and findings to the sub-recipient staff.  Written follow-up detailing any concerns found and asking for a response explaining how the problems will be corrected.  Additional follow-up visit to verify all problems have been corrected.

In most cases, monitoring visits for the PSAs will be conducted after the receipt of the first draw request. This enables the City to review the sub-recipients’ intake of documentation to allow for changes and/ or corrections to be made to their processes. The public facilities will be monitored on a continuous basis throughout the work schedule. In some cases, particularly with new sub-recipients, more frequent monitoring visits may be conducted through the review of files to track performance and compliance of on-going activities.

Monitoring Schedule:

Monitoring visits will be conducted during the 2015-2019 Program Years for the following programs annually or monitored continuously through a working relationship.

 Mortgage Assistance – The mortgage companies and the banking institutions that utilize funding during the year will be scheduled for an annual review.

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 Public Services – Agencies receiving CDBG funds from the City of Victoria have been monitored continuously through a working relationship and through an audit site visit annually.  Public Facilities and Improvements – Agencies receiving CDBG funds from the City of Victoria will be monitored continuously through employee interviews and regular site visits. As deemed necessary, Davis Bacon Labor regulations will be met through contractual labor standard responsibilities. As well the City of Victoria currently has a Local Opportunity Program to assist historically underutilized businesses. These businesses are ones that are majority owned by either women or minorities.

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Expected Resources

AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2) Introduction

The Five Year Consolidated Plan must identify the federal, state, local and private resources expected to be available to the City to address priority needs and specific objectives identified in the Strategic Plan. These resources are summarized in Table 45.

The City of Victoria is anticipating $508,170 in CDBG funding for the 2015/2016 program year, these funds can then be used over the course of the 2015/2016 program year and subsequent program years. During the course of this five-year consolidated plan the City of Victoria is expected to receive $2,500,000 in CDBG funding. These funds will be used for CDBG eligible activities consistent with the current goals and objectives identified in the Five Year Consolidated Plan. CDBG funds will be used for housing and community development activities including, but not limited to, neighborhood programs, public services, affordable housing, public facilities, public improvements and program administration of the City's CDBG program. During the 2014/2015 Program year the CDBG funding was $561,032 this accounts for a total decrease of $52,862. Much like in the previous year, there is a possibility of another decrease in CDBG funding as more cities become entitlement cities and HUD/ CDBG

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programs receive less federal funding.

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 $ $ $ Remainder of ConPlan $ CDBG public - Acquisition Funds will be used according to the federal Admin and noted priorities to include Program Planning Administration, Neighborhood Programs, Economic Public Services, Affordable Housing, Development Public Facilities and Public Housing Improvements. Public Improvements Public Services 508,170 67,500 20,292 595,962 2,000,000 Table 54 - Expected Resources – Priority Table

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

Presently in the City of Victoria, there is not a matching requirement to receive CDBG funds. Non-profit partners are able to leverage City of Victoria funds with other private, state, and local funds to provide additional services and support for residents receiving assistance through the program.

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

Not Applicable

Discussion

The City of Victoria’s anticipated funding allocation from CDBG will address many of the City’s goals, including improving neighborhood programs, public services, affordable housing, public facilities, public improvements and program administration. As well, in the neighborhood of Swan Crossing, the number of affordable housing units available is being increased, by granting, income eligible first time homebuyer’s down payment and closing cost assistance, principal buy-down and realtor fees associated with the sale of lots.

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Annual Goals and Objectives

AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives

Goals Summary Information

Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 1 Direct 2015 2019 Affordable Swan Crossing Homeownership CDBG: Direct Financial Assistance to Homeownership Housing Assistance $20,000 Homebuyers: 4 Households Assistance Assisted 2 Code Enforcement 2015 2019 Non-Housing Low to Code Enforcement CDBG: Housing Code Community Moderate $46,000 Enforcement/Foreclosed Development Income Census Property Care: 750 Household Block Groups Housing Unit in the City of Victoria 3 Clearance and 2015 2019 Affordable Low to Demolition CDBG: Buildings Demolished: 1 Demolition Housing Moderate $5,000 Buildings Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria 4 Public Service Activity 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Children & Youth CDBG: Public service activities other for Children and Community Services $15,630 than Low/Moderate Income Youth Ser Development Housing Benefit: 27 Persons Assisted

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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 5 Public Service-Abused 2015 2019 Abused and City of Victoria Homeless & At-Risk CDBG: Public service activities other and Neglected Neglected Homeless $4,500 than Low/Moderate Income Children Children Prevention Services Housing Benefit: 80 Persons Assisted 6 Public Service 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Subsistence CDBG: Public service activities other Agency/Subsistence Community Support Services $10,000 than Low/Moderate Income Support Service Development Housing Benefit: 260 Persons Assisted 7 Public Service 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Senior and/ or CDBG: Public service activities other Activity/Senior &/or Community Disabled Services $10,000 than Low/Moderate Income Disabled Serv. Development Housing Benefit: 26 Persons Assisted 8 Homelessness 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Subsistence CDBG: Public service activities for Prevention Support Services $10,000 Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 65 Households Assisted 9 Homelessness & At- 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Children & Youth CDBG: Public service activities other Risk Homelessness Community Services $20,000 than Low/Moderate Income Prevention Development Housing Benefit: 120 Persons Assisted 10 Public Service 2015 2019 Non-Housing City of Victoria Mental Health & CDBG: Public service activities other Activity/Mental Community Wellness Services $8,732 than Low/Moderate Income Health and Wellness Development Housing Benefit: 2 Persons Assisted 11 Public Service Activity 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Employment/Job CDBG: Homelessness Prevention: 50 Employment/ Job Job Training Training Services $7,000 Persons Assisted Training

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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Order Year Year Area 12 Public Facility for 2015 2019 Homeless City of Victoria Special Needs CDBG: Homelessness Prevention: 68 Special Needs Population $125,000 Persons Assisted Populations Facilities 13 Public Improvements 2015 2019 Non-Housing Low to Park Improvements CDBG: Public Facility or Infrastructure Community Moderate $150,000 Activities other than Development Income Census Low/Moderate Income Housing Block Groups Benefit: 4360 Persons Assisted in the City of Victoria Table 55 – Goals Summary

Goal Descriptions

1 Goal Name Direct Homeownership Assistance Goal This activity provides grants of up to $5,000 for low and moderate-income homebuyers to purchase homes in the Swan Description Crossing Subdivision. Grants may cover 50% of the down payment, closing costs as well as principal reduction as determined by the homeowner’s gap analysis. 2 Goal Name Code Enforcement Goal This activity provides general code enforcement activities, which involve preserving and protecting low- and moderate- Description income areas against the harmful effects of deterioration caused by neglect and deferred maintenance. This program funds approximately 50% of two Code Enforcement Officers salaries who work in CDBG-eligible census tracts throughout the City.

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3 Goal Name Clearance and Demolition Goal This activity meets the primary objective of providing a suitable living environment through the clearance of debris and Description removal of dilapidated, abandoned or burned structures to increase the sustainability in targeted low to moderate- income neighborhoods. 4 Goal Name Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser Goal The first activity provides weekly $35 scholarships for 19 at-risk children for an 8-week summer program. Parents will be Description responsible for $30 tuition on a weekly basis. Priority will be given to low-income children that reside in the census blocks that are contiguous to the facility. The program provides breakfast and lunch for the participants. The program promotes a youth development strategy that works with youth from disadvantaged economic, social and family circumstances. This summer program will allow for more youth to be involved in a healthy structured atmosphere. The second activity This activity will provide $32.50 weekly scholarships for 8 low-income youth for a 32-week after school daycare program. The parents will be responsible for 50% of the tuition which is $32.50 on a weekly basis. The project will deliver a quality curriculum based after school program to the children. The children will benefit from homework assistance, structured activities and afternoon snacks. Any remaining funds will carry over to the Summer Camp program based on the same cost if funding is available. 5 Goal Name Public Service-Abused and Neglected Children Goal This activity will provide assistance to offset the cost to employ 3-full-time case worker supervisors to support services Description and direct the work of trained CASA volunteers. The CASA volunteers are appointed Guardians Ad Litem (free of charge) to the children; as they advocate for the best interests of severely abused and neglected children in the City of Victoria. All of the children have been removed from their abusive homes and placed into the foster care system. 6 Goal Name Public Service Agency/Subsistence Support Service Goal This activity provides water bill assistance to low- and moderate income individuals. This program provides up to $100 Description per client to assist with the payment of water and sewer utility bills in order to prevent service disconnection. The program is designed to make housing more affordable by ensuring access to utilities necessary for a healthy and sanitary living environment.

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7 Goal Name Public Service Activity/Senior &/or Disabled Serv. Goal This activity provides healthy hot meals Monday through Friday to elderly and disabled homebound individuals. The Description program is directed at improving and sustaining the living environment of the participants by ensuring access to healthy and affordable meals and also provides a daily wellness contact. 8 Goal Name Homelessness Prevention Goal This activity provides rental assistance to low- and moderate income individuals with one-time aid up to $400.00 per Description family to prevent eviction. The program is designed to provide assistance for a short period to aid individuals or families who are struggling to pay their housing and prevent eminent eviction or homelessness. 9 Goal Name Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Goal The first activity provides 1,980 healthy backpack meals to 60 children for 33 weeks when free school lunches are not Description available, such as weekends and school holidays. This helps homeless students overcome obstacles such as hunger and malnutrition that may impede their success in school. This program is carried out through collaboration between the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent and VISD KIDZconnection, a program of the school district. VISD KIDZconnection liaisons perform all the data collection and the USDA Free Lunch Program income limits are applied for income determination. The second activity This activity assists homeless students through “Project Success”, a program designed to address the needs of the homeless students by removing barriers that impede their ability to be academically successful. One part- time teacher liaison for 15 hours weekly will be assigned to Patti Welder and Cade Middle schools for 22 of the 35 weeks. An individualized plan will be prepared to address the student’s challenges in attendance, academics, discipline, transportation, tutoring and other basic needs. 10 Goal Name Public Service Activity/Mental Health and Wellness Goal This activity provides mental health and wellness support services for severely disabled individuals who are clients at the Description Wellness Community. The service/treatment continuum provides transitional housing, respite, outreach services, outpatient medical and counseling for individuals with mental health needs. The funding will also serve as a partial match of the 10% needed to receive a State funded Indigent Care program being provided to low- and moderate income severally disabled individuals.

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11 Goal Name Public Service Activity Employment/ Job Training Goal This activity provides services at the Center of Peace for at-risk and/or homeless low-income women to empower and Description motivate them to seek continued education and employment opportunities. This program is year round with a curriculum of Opportunity Knocks classes, Acceleration Program, Internship, “Dream of Entrepreneurship” and “Success is Yours” classes. The phases include job-training instruction, accelerated instruction, practical application and leadership development through entrepreneurship training. Scholarships will be provided for 80% of the total class and 2 internships at $500/each for a two month session. The services will provide the participants opportunities to engage in on-the-job and conflict resolution training, entrepreneurship principles and create a plan for future goals. 12 Goal Name Public Facility for Special Needs Populations Goal This activity funds Mid-Coast Family Services Women’s Crisis Center to provide additional capacity to the public Description facility. The addition will provide 6 offices, group room, bathroom, conversions of an office to utility closet and the 2 existing offices to bedrooms. These improvements are necessary as the facility is functioning at 100% to 150% capacity nightly. All of the clients are battered women or men and homeless women who are a presumed benefit clientele. 13 Goal Name Public Improvements Goal This activity will fund the purchase of new playground equipment and fall zone protection that will meet safety Description regulations for parks. The equipment will be purchased through the State of Texas Buy Board cooperative agreement. The Community Center Park lies in Census Block Group 202.2 and serves a one mile radius that incorporates Census Block Groups 201.3, 302.2, 302.1 and 202.1.

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Projects

AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d) Introduction

The City of Victoria’s planned actions for the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan are intended to support affordable housing, non-housing community developments, public services, public facilities, and administration costs. The City will continue to provide funding for projects within these categories that meet the needs of the community.

As in past years, the City will continue to coordinate with public or social service providers to reduce or prevent homelessness and encourage access to public services for special needs populations generally presumed to be low- and moderate-income. During the 2015/2016 program year, the City will fund activities that address the needs of homeless, persons at risk of becoming homeless, special needs populations such as at-risk youth and families, and the mentally ill.

As well there will be neighborhood improvement programs including demolition, public facilities improvements, shelter improvements, and Community Center neighborhood park improvements. One of the major projects being done for shelter improvements will be an increase in the housing capacity at Mid-Coast Shelter to serve an additional 68 homeless annually.

The City of Victoria’s planned actions for the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan is summarized below:

Projects

# Project Name 1 New Housing Homebuyer Assistance 2 Code Enforcement 3 Demolition 4 PSA-Boys & Girls Club Summer Camp Program 5 PSA-CASA (Golden Crescent Court Appointed Special Advocates) 6 PSA-Water Assistance Program - CAC 7 PSA-Meals-on-Wheels - CAC 8 PSA-Faith Family - Eviction Prevention 9 PSA-Kid's Back Pack Program - Food Bank of the Golden Crescent 10 PSA-Gulf Bend Wellness Community Program Services 11 PSA-Opportunity Knocks - Perpetual Help Home 12 PSA-VISD KIDZconnection

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# Project Name 13 PSA-YMCA Afterschool and Summer Camp Program 14 Mid-Coast Family Services - Public Facilities 15 Community Center Neighborhood Park 16 Program Administration 17 Unallocated Budget Table 56 – Project Information

Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs

The allocation priorities are based on the five goals of the Strategic Plan: affordable housing, non- housing community development, public services, public facilities and administration. For CDBG funds the maximum amount that can be allocated towards public services is 15%, and administration cannot exceed 20% of the total funds.

*This value was reached by using 15% of the current years grant funding as well as 15% of the previous year program income.

The primary obstacle the city faces in addressing underserved needs is funding. In recent years the reduced funding has hindered the City’s ability to meet all the needs of low-income residents. The City seeks to provide funding for as many suitable programs as possible; however, with only the current grant funding it is quickly becoming more difficult.

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AP-38 Project Summary Project Summary Information

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 187 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

1 Project Name New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Target Area Swan Crossing Goals Supported Direct Homeownership Assistance Needs Addressed Homeownership Assistance Funding CDBG: $20,000 Description This activity provides grants of up to $5,000 for low and moderate- income homebuyers to purchase homes in the Swan Crossing Subdivision. Grants may cover 50% of the down payment, closing costs as well as principal reduction as determined by the homeowners gap analysis. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides 4 deferred forgiveable grants of up to $5,000 for low and moderate-income homebuyers to purchase homes in the Swan Crossing Subdivision. 2 Project Name Code Enforcement Target Area Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Goals Supported Code Enforcement Needs Addressed Code Enforcement Funding CDBG: $46,000 Description This activity provides general code enforcement activities, which involve preserving and protecting low- and moderate-income areas against the harmful effects of deterioration caused by neglect and deferred maintenance. This program funds approximately 50% of two Code Enforcement Officers salaries who work in CDBG-eligible census tracts throughout the City. Target Date

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 188 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This program funds approximately 50% of two Code Enforcement Officers salaries who work in CDBG-eligible census tracts throughout the City through 750 code enforcemetn cases. 3 Project Name Demolition Target Area Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Goals Supported Clearance and Demolition Needs Addressed Demolition Funding CDBG: $5,000 Description This activity meets the primary objective of providing a suitable living environment through the clearance of debris and removal of dilapidated, abandoned or burned structures to increase the sustainability in targeted low to moderate-income neighborhoods. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities THis activity will assist 1 housing unit for demolition of a structure located in low-to moderate income census block groups through the City of Victoria as an area benefit. 4 Project Name PSA-Boys & Girls Club Summer Camp Program Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser Needs Addressed Children & Youth Services Funding CDBG: $7,310

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 189 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Description This activity provides weekly $35 scholarships for 19 at-risk children for an 8-week summer program. Parents will be responsible for $30 tuition on a weekly basis. Priority will be given to low-income children that reside in the census blocks that are contiguous to the facility and then low-income within the City of Victoria's jurisdiction. The program provides breakfast and lunch for the participants. The program promotes a youth development strategy that works with youth from disadvantaged economic, social and family circumstances. This summer program will allow for more youth to be involved in a healthy structured atmosphere. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides weekly $35 scholarships for 19 at-risk children for an 8-week summer program. Parents will be responsible for $30 tuition on a weekly basis. This will also provide $3,000 in salaries for over the 8-week program. 5 Project Name PSA-CASA (Golden Crescent Court Appointed Special Advocates) Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Service-Abused and Neglected Children Needs Addressed Children & Youth Services Funding CDBG: $4,500 Description This activity will provide assistance to offset the cost to employ 3-full- time case worker supervisors to support services and direct the work of trained CASA volunteers. The CASA volunteers are appointed Guardians Ad Litem (free of charge) to the children; as they advocate for the best interests of severely abused and neglected children in the City of Victoria. All of the children have been removed from their abusive homes and placed into the foster care system. Target Date

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 190 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity will provide assistance to offset the cost to employ 3-full- time case worker supervisors to support services and direct the work of trained CASA volunteers. The CASA volunteers are advocates for the severely abused and neglected children in the City of Victoria. All of the children have been removed from their abusive homes and placed into the foster care system. 6 Project Name PSA-Water Assistance Program - CAC Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Service Agency/Subsistence Support Service Needs Addressed Subsistence Support Services Funding CDBG: $10,000 Description This activity provides water bill assistance to low- and moderate income individuals. This program provides up to $100 per client to assist with the payment of water and sewer utility bills in order to prevent service disconnection. The program is designed to make housing more affordable by ensuring access to utilities necessary for a healthy and sanitary living environment. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides water bill assistance 100 families/260 low- and moderate income individuals or families up to $100 per household to assist with the payment of water and sewer utility bills in order to prevent service disconnection. 7 Project Name PSA-Meals-on-Wheels - CAC Target Area City of Victoria

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 191 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Goals Supported Public Service Activity/Senior &/or Disabled Serv. Needs Addressed Senior and/ or Disabled Services Funding CDBG: $10,000 Description This activity provides healthy hot meals Monday through Friday to elderly and disabled homebound individuals. The program is directed at improving and sustaining the living environment of the participants by ensuring access to healthy and affordable meals and also provides a daily wellness contact. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides healthy hot meals Monday through Friday to elderly and 26 disabled homebound individuals by ensuring access to healthy and affordable meals and also provides a daily wellness contact. 8 Project Name PSA-Faith Family - Eviction Prevention Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Homelessness Prevention Needs Addressed Subsistence Support Services Funding CDBG: $10,000 Description This activity provides rental assistance to low- and moderate income individuals with one-time aid up to $400.00 per family to prevent eviction. The program is designed to provide assistance for a short period to aid individuals or families who are struggling to pay their housing and prevent eminent eviction or homelessness. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 192 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Planned Activities This activity provides rental assistance to low- and moderate income individuals with one-time aid up to $400.00 per family to prevent eviction to aid individuals or families who are struggling to pay their housing and prevent eminent eviction or homelessness. 9 Project Name PSA-Kid's Back Pack Program - Food Bank of the Golden Crescent Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Needs Addressed Children & Youth Services Funding CDBG: $10,000 Description This activity provides 1,980 healthy backpack meals to 60 children for 33 weeks when free school lunches are not available, such as weekends and school holidays. This helps homeless students overcome obstacles such as hunger and malnutrition that may impede their success in school. This program is carried out through collaboration between the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent and VISD KIDZconnection, a program of the school district. VISD KIDZconnection liaisons perform all the data collection and the USDA Free Lunch Program income limits are applied for income determination. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides 1,980 healthy backpack meals to 60 homeless and at-risk homeless children for 33 weeks when free school lunches are not available, such as weekends and school holidays. This program is carried out through collaboration between the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent and VISD KIDZconnection, a program of the school district. VISD KIDZconnection liaisons perform all the data collection and the USDA Free Lunch Program income limits are applied for income determination. 10 Project Name PSA-Gulf Bend Wellness Community Program Services Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 193 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Needs Addressed Homeless & At-Risk Homeless Prevention Services Funding CDBG: $8,732 Description This activity provides mental health and wellness support services for severely disabled individuals who are clients at the Wellness Community. The service/treatment continuum provides transitional housing, respite, outreach services, outpatient medical and counseling for individuals with mental health needs. The funding will also serve as a partial match of the 10% needed to receive a State funded Indigent Care program being provided to low- and moderate income severally disabled individuals. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides mental health and wellness support services for severely disabled individuals who are clients at the Wellness Community. The service/treatment continuum provides transitional housing, respite, outreach services, outpatient medical and counseling for individuals with mental health needs being provided to low- and moderate income severally disabled individuals. 11 Project Name PSA-Opportunity Knocks - Perpetual Help Home Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Service Activity Employment/ Job Training Needs Addressed Employment/Job Training Services Funding CDBG: $7,000

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 194 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Description This activity provides services at the Center of Peace for at-risk and/or homeless low-income women to empower and motivate them to seek continued education and employment opportunities. This program is year round with a curriculum of Opportunity Knocks classes, Acceleration Program, Internship, Dream of Entrepreneurship and Success is Yours classes. The phases include job-training instruction, accelerated instruction, practical application and leadership development through entrepreneurship training. Scholarships will be provided for 80% of the total class and 2 internships at $500/each for a two month session. The services will provide the participants opportunities to engage in on-the-job and conflict resolution training, entrepreneurship principles and create a plan for future goals. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity provides services at the Center of Peace for at-risk and/or homeless low-income women to empower and motivate them to seek continued education/job training and employment opportunities. This program is year round with a curriculum of Opportunity Knocks classes, Acceleration Program, Internship, “Dream of Entrepreneurship” and “Success is Yours” classes. The phases include job-training instruction, accelerated instruction, practical application and leadership development through entrepreneurship training. Scholarships will be provided for 80% of the total class cost and 2 internships at $500/each for a two month session. 12 Project Name PSA-VISD KIDZconnection Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Needs Addressed Children & Youth Services Funding CDBG: $10,000

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 195 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Description This activity assists homeless students through Project Success, a program designed to address the needs of the homeless students by removing barriers that impede their ability to be academically successful. One part-time teacher liaison for 15 hours weekly will be assigned to Patti Welder and Cade Middle schools for 22 of the 35 weeks. An individualized plan will be prepared to address the student challenges in attendance, academics, discipline, transportation, tutoring and other basic needs. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity assists homeless students through “Project Success”, a program designed to address the needs of the homeless students by removing barriers that impede their ability to be academically successful. One part-time teacher liaison for 15 hours weekly will be assigned to Patti Welder and Cade Middle schools for 22 of the 35 weeks. 13 Project Name PSA-YMCA Afterschool and Summer Camp Program Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser Needs Addressed Children & Youth Services Funding CDBG: $8,320 Description This activity will provide $32.50 weekly scholarships for 8 low-income youth for a 32-week after school daycare program. The parents will be responsible for 50% of the tuition which is $32.50 on a weekly basis. The project will deliver a quality curriculum based after school program to the children. The children will benefit from homework assistance, structured activities and afternoon snacks. Any remaining funds will carry over to the Summer Camp program based on the same cost if funding is available. Target Date

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 196 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity will provide $32.50 weekly scholarships for 8 low-income youth for a 32-week after school daycare program. The parents will be responsible for 50% of the tuition which is $32.50 on a weekly basis. The children will benefit from homework assistance, structured activities and afternoon snacks. Any remaining funds will carry over to the Summer Camp program based on the same cost if funding is available. 14 Project Name Mid-Coast Family Services - Public Facilities Target Area City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Facility for Special Needs Populations Needs Addressed Special Needs Population Facilities Funding CDBG: $125,000 Description This activity funds Mid-Coast Family Services Womens Crisis Center to provide additional capacity to the public facility. The addition will provide 6 offices, group room, bathroom, conversions of an office to utility closet and the 2 existing offices to bedrooms. These improvements are necessary as the facility is functioning at 100% to 150% capacity nightly. All of the clients are battered women or men and homeless women who are a presumed benefit clientele. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 197 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Planned Activities This activity will provide funding for Mid-Coast Family Services Women’s Crisis Center to provide additional capacity to the public facility. The addition will provide 6 offices, group room, bathroom, conversions of an office to utility closet and the 2 existing offices to bedrooms. All of the clients are battered women or men and homeless women who are a presumed benefit clientele. 15 Project Name Community Center Neighborhood Park Target Area Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Goals Supported Public Improvements Needs Addressed Park Improvements Funding CDBG: $150,000 Description This activity will fund the purchase of new playground equipment and fall zone protection that will meet safety regulations for parks. The equipment will be purchased through the State of Texas Buy Board cooperative agreement. The Community Center Park lies in Census Block Group 202.2 and serves a one mile radius that incorporates Census Block Groups 201.3, 302.2, 302.1 and 202.1. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity will fund the purchase of new playground equipment and fall zone protection that will meet safety regulations for parks. The equipment will be purchased through the State of Texas Buy Board cooperative agreement. The Community Center Park lies in Census Block Group 202.2 and serves a one mile radius that incorporates Census Block Groups 201.3, 302.2, 302.1 and 202.1. 16 Project Name Program Administration Target Area City of Victoria

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 198 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Goals Supported Direct Homeownership Assistance Code Enforcement Clearance and Demolition Public Improvements Public Service Agency/Subsistence Support Service Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser Public Service Activity/Mental Health and Wellness Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Homelessness Prevention Public Service Activity/Senior &/or Disabled Serv. Public Facility for Special Needs Populations Public Service-Abused and Neglected Children Needs Addressed Administration Funding CDBG: $96,600 Description This activity involves the oversight and administration of CDBG funds and activities, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and the effective use of program funds. This activity includes working along with low- and moderate income neighborhoods and building capacity among citizens and organizations in those neighborhoods. Program Administration also includes submitting future grant proposals and applications for other housing and community development activities. Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities This activity involves the oversight and administration of CDBG funds and activities, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and the effective use of program funds. This activity includes working along with low- and moderate income neighborhoods and building capacity among citizens and organizations in those neighborhoods. Program Administration also includes submitting future grant proposals and applications for other housing and community development activities. Project Name Unallocated Budget

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 199 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

17 Target Area City of Victoria Swan Crossing Low to Moderate Income Census Block Groups in the City of Victoria Goals Supported Direct Homeownership Assistance Code Enforcement Clearance and Demolition Public Improvements Public Service Agency/Subsistence Support Service Public Service Activity for Children and Youth Ser Public Service Activity Employment/ Job Training Public Service Activity/Mental Health and Wellness Homelessness & At-Risk Homelessness Prevention Homelessness Prevention Public Service Activity/Senior &/or Disabled Serv. Public Facility for Special Needs Populations Public Service-Abused and Neglected Children Needs Addressed Swan Crossing Initiatives Homeownership Assistance Habitat for Humanity Housing Rehabilitation- Community Risk Reduction Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP) Code Enforcement Demolition Neighborhood Clean-Up Park Improvements Transit Shelters Sidewalk Improvements Subsistence Support Services Children & Youth Services Employment/Job Training Services Mental Health & Wellness Services Homeless & At-Risk Homeless Prevention Services Senior and/ or Disabled Services Homeless Shelter Youth Centers Special Needs Population Facilities Administration Abused & Neglected Children Funding CDBG: $67,500 Description Unallocated Program Income

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 200 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Target Date Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities Location Description Planned Activities Not Applicable at this time

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 201 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f) Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed

The area-based projects to be conducted in the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan program year are the Community Center Neighborhood Park Improvements, code enforcement, and demolition projects. The Community Center Neighborhood Park is located in the 202.2 Census Block which is a low/moderate income census block group. All activities will benefit low-moderate income persons.

Geographic Distribution

Target Area Percentage of Funds City of Victoria Swan Crossing Table 57 - Geographic Distribution

Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically

In the City of Victoria a large portion of the CDBG funds are allocated to projects that are available to persons throughout the city instead of those solely in one geographic area. For the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan program year, all of the public services funding is being utilized to help low and moderate income persons, homeless persons, and those that are severely disabled. Most of these services will be utilized in low and moderate income block groups, because this is where the citizens that are in need of these services live. Additionally, the City plans to use 28% of the 2015/2016 funds to improve the Community Center Neighborhood Park Area which will benefit 4,360 persons. The low and moderate income block group’s contingent with the park will include 202.2, 201.1, 202.1, and 302.1. Code Enforcement and Demolition funding, which make up 10% of the funding will also be utilized in low and moderate income block groups.

Discussion

The majority of funding in the City of Victoria is designated towards projects that can be utilized by certain groups or people, rather than those that live in a certain area. This allows for projects such as Mid-Coast Women’s Crisis Center to receive 24% of the 2015/2016 funding to help battered women and men in the City of Victoria. As well there can be programs to assist homeless persons, regardless of which census block group they are currently located in. The Community Center Neighborhood Park improvement is the largest project that was funded based on geographical area. This project will benefit 4360 persons within the City of Victoria.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 202 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

Affordable Housing

AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g) Introduction

The Annual Action Plan must specify goals for the number of homeless, non-homeless, and special needs households to be supported within the program year. Table 6 shows the number of households supported through rental assistance, production of new units, rehabilitation of existing units, and acquisition of existing units.

One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless Non-Homeless Special-Needs Total Table 58 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement

One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Acquisition of Existing Units 7 Total 7 Table 59 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type Discussion

During the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan year, the City plans to help support 118 homeless through CDBG Funding. Through the Opportunity Knocks program provided by Perpetual Help Home 112 homeless will be provided assistance in finding a safe environment through the Women’s Crisis Center, or affordable housing, 25 non-homeless households will be assisted through eviction prevention assistance, and 2 special needs families will be supported through the Gulf Bend Wellness Community Program Services.

Currently the City of Victoria provides Rental Assistance to 320 households through the Victoria Housing Authority (VHA) Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) vouchers, which allow low income persons to rent privately owned houses or apartment dispersed throughout the community. Additionally 16 new homes are being constructed in the Swan Crossing neighborhood to provide affordable housing to low income households.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 203 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h) Introduction

This section describes what actions the City of Victoria plans to take in the 2015/2016 program year to carry out the public housing goals set in the strategic plan. Below, the City of Victoria has identified the manner in which 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan will address these needs.

Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing

Currently in the City of Victoria, there are no new plans to increase the number of public housing units available through vouchers.

Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership

Currently the City encourages public housing residents through programs for Job training. This program allows the residents to be better prepared to join the workforce and start earning a steady income. The City currently seeks to provide this assistance to 50 residents during the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan year, and 250 across the 2015-2019 Five- year plan. Additionally the Victoria Housing Authority has a resident commissioner serving on the board and annually sends out a letter to residents inviting them to join the Resident Advisory Board.

If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance

Not Applicable

Discussion

Although the City of Victoria does not have any plans to increase the number of public housing units during the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan program year, it will still continue to support the funding of 314 public housing vouchers. Through employment/ job training public service program the City of Victoria hopes to help household’s transition at a quicker pace from public housing units to independent living.

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 204 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) Introduction

This section will discuss the City of Victoria’s plan during the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan to reduce homelessness using the goals identified in the strategic plan. This section also addresses the activities related to supporting housing needs of non-homeless populations.

Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including

Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs

Consistent with the Five-Year Consolidated Plan’s Strategic Plan, The City of Victoria will pursue the goal of reducing homelessness. The City has programmed public service activities that meet the following objectives of the strategic plan:

 Provide services to the homeless and those at-risk of becoming homeless that promote self- sufficiency.  Continue to support programs within the City that offer meals, shelter facilities and/or shelter beds to the homeless.  Increase the capacity of shelters for the homeless.

The City of Victoria currently tries to address as many individual needs of the homeless as possible. In regards to the unsheltered homeless, their main needs are food and shelter. Many are currently provided with warm meals through the local soup kitchen called Christ’s Kitchen six days a week. There are currently 154 beds available to many different groups of homeless individuals, 72 of which are emergency housing beds. For those that are not unsheltered homeless, many of these shelters also provide education/job training programs. Additionally Mid-Coast Family Services Women’s Crisis Center plans to increase its capacity of beds to serve an additional 68 homeless persons during the 2015/2016 Action Plan Year.

Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons

The City of Victoria relies on CDBG funds and the resources of the non-profit agencies to address the emergency shelter needs. Presently the City of Victoria has 72 emergency housing beds, 40 transitional housing beds, and 6 treatment center beds. These beds are organized to meet the needs of various groups of homeless. Currently 30 of the emergency beds are just for homeless men, while 34 are used for women, and there are also 8 individual/ family emergency shelter beds. All of the 40 transitional housing beds are currently only available to women and children. Additionally during the 2015/2016 program year the Mid-Coast Family Services plans to increase the capacity of its shelters by adding 2 additional bedrooms that will serve an additional 68 battered women annually. This should go a long

Consolidated Plan VICTORIA 205 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 06/30/2018)

way in providing safe and accessible housing to homeless persons in the City of Victoria.

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

There are many mainstream social service agencies that provide services and programs to prevent homelessness that will be utilized in the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan, particularly education, job training, counseling, soup kitchen, emergency water bill assistance, life skills training, among others. Currently the City of Victoria through the Continuum of Care (CoC) has 36 permanent supportive housing beds to aid residents in getting back to independent living. 18 of these permanent housing beds are designated to chronically homeless men, 9 to women and children, and 9 to families with disabilities.

In order to shorten the amount of time that a person spends homeless there are 72 emergency shelter beds, and 40 transitional shelter beds. Many of these beds are available to any person in need of shelter, however, 28 emergency shelter beds are designated for just men, and all 40 transitional beds are for women and children only. Drug and alcohol rehabilitation is offered through many of the shelters. The public services also provide job training to the homeless to help those looking for employment rejoin the work force.

During the 2015/2016 Action Plan year the City plans to provide 100 extremely low-income and low- income households with water bill assistance, as well as 25 households with eviction prevention assistance. These programs become very useful to shorten the period of homelessness and to prevent individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again.

Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs

One of the City of Victoria’s strategies for reducing homelessness is by providing programs and services for low-income individuals and families that will hopefully prevent them from becoming homeless. The Subsistence Support Services where it is possible for extremely low-income and low-income individuals to receive water utility assistance, food, and eviction prevention assistance. The City is also currently

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working to increase the number of affordable housing units in the City for low-income individuals.

Many non-profit service providers in the city also provide assistance to low-income and very low-income households such as Habitat for Humanity. Habitat builds affordable housing for individuals and/or families who earn between 35% HAMFI to 60% HAMFI. The Salvation Army provides Stepping Stone, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program that can be used by individuals to help them become drug free, and prepare them for re-entry into society. The Gulf Bend Wellness community is an Intermediate Care Facility with the primary goal being to move people with intellectual and developmental disabilities toward a higher level of independence.

Discharge planning and discharge follow up occurs for all individuals leaving a State Hospital/School, returning to the local service area. This ensures people have services lined up upon their return such as doctor services and medication refills. Programs at the Wellness Community will include an Extended Observation Unit and Transitional Housing. The Extended Observation is a step-down outpatient program where people stay to assure they are stable and ready for community living. Transitional housing offers short term living that incorporates living/life skills to include job search and permanent housing. Currently when a person’s returns from a mental and physical health institution the intention would be for them go into a permanent supportive housing unit. However, there are not enough units currently to allow for that.

Discussion

The City of Victoria tries to help as many homeless as possible each year. During the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan Year, the City will work to reduce the number of homeless by providing services to the homeless and those at-risk of becoming homeless that promote self-sufficiency; continue to support programs within the City that offer meals, shelter facilities and/or shelter beds to the homeless; and increase the capacity of shelters for the homeless. Currently the City has a large variety of different beds to meet the varying needs of groups of homeless persons. However, the quantity of beds in the City is far too limited, as all of the shelters are currently operating at capacity.

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AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.220(j) Introduction:

In the City of Victoria, there is a great need for affordable housing to prevent households from becoming cost burdened by housing costs. HUD requires jurisdictions that receive federal funds to commit to taking actions to affirmatively further fair housing. The City of Victoria has identified six barriers to affordable housing that are outlined in the City’s Analysis of Impediments. These impediments are neighborhood deterioration, inadequate supply of low cost homes, inability to obtain safe rental housing, need for housing and services for the homeless and minimum lot size requirements.

Actions it planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment

These barriers are a big issue to the City of Victoria, and correcting them is vital to ensure equal access to housing for persons at like income levels. Currently the City of Victoria does have strategies in place to address these barriers to affordable housing.

 Neighborhood Deterioration- Efforts to sustain and revitalize neighborhoods will be carried out through demolition and code enforcement programs. During the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan year the city plans to demolish 10 homes that have deteriorated. These programs will seek to address neighborhood deterioration caused by neglect or lack of maintenance and foster neighborhood pride to deter further deterioration through demolition, and code enforcement.  Inadequate Supply of Low Cost Homes- The Mortgage Assistance Program will be carried forward by providing down payment and closing cost assistance to first time homebuyers. The New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Housing Initiatives Programs at Swan Crossing offers up to $20,000 of assistance ($5,000 to down payment assistance and closing cost, and a $15,000 lot) to homebuyers to purchase a new home. This City Program will assist first time homebuyers.  Inability to Obtain Safe Rental Housing- Rental housing assistance is currently being addressed through CDBG funds. The Eviction Prevention Programs can provide housing assistance for eligible renters on the verge of eviction.  Need for Home Ownership Education- Home ownership education is addressed on a program basis. Prospective homebuyers currently participating in the New Housing Homebuyer Assistance Program are provided home ownership education before purchase. This service is being provided through the real estate broker currently working with the City of Victoria in Swan Crossing. Homebuyers requiring education or classes may be directed to other area resources as necessary.  Need for Housing and Services for the Homeless- The City works with the Victoria Area

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Homeless Coalition to address the needs of the homeless. Water bill and eviction prevention assistance are available to aid in the prevention of homelessness. Gulf Bend is offering a new program to provide services to those with severe mental health issues. The Perpetual Help Home is offering job training services for the homeless and at risk homeless women. The city has also funded KIDZconnection to assist homeless students at Victoria Independent School District (VISD). Mid-Coast Family Services Women’s Crisis Center offers services for battered men and women and emergency shelter for homeless women.  Minimum Lot Size Requirements- Minimum lot size is a subdivision platting requirement established by City Code. No CDBG programs address this barrier; however, staff recognizes the potential hardship caused by this requirement.

Discussion:

The City of Victoria has plans in place during the 2015/2016 Annual Action Program Year to address many of the barriers to affordable housing. Although these programs will not eliminate the barriers to affordable housing, they will make more homes affordable, and accessible to low and moderate income families. The programs address neighborhood deterioration and provide eviction assistance to low- income persons that prevent a family from going into homelessness.

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AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k) Introduction:

This section of the Annual Action Plan describes the City of Victoria’s planned actions to carry out the following strategies outlined in the Strategic Plan:

 Address obstacles to meeting underserved needs  Foster and maintain affordable housing  Evaluate and reduce lead-based paint hazards  Reduce the number of poverty-level families  Develop institutional structure  Enhance Coordination

Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs

As a small entitlement City, there are extremely limited resources available to meet all the needs. The City will address the priorities that were identified in the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan and Strategy. The majority of funding has been allocated to projects and activities in high priority categories. The following obstacles to meeting underserved needs were identified in the CPS:

 Ongoing cutbacks to federal and state resources are further eroding public service agencies capacity to meet the needs for affordable housing and other community development assistance needs.  Victoria has a higher number of households living in poverty than the rest of the State. Approximately 18.6% of households in the City are living below the federal poverty line, compared with 17.6% statewide.  Educational attainment is a significant contributing factor to poverty rates. The percentage of persons that have a bachelor’s degree or higher is 16.9%, which is significantly lower when compared to the statewide percentage of 26.7%.

The City of Victoria hopes to mitigate many of these issues by providing funding to programs with the goal of helping citizens in poverty, and job training. The City of Victoria currently does not have any programs to bring people out of poverty; however, there are programs in place to aid families that are in poverty from becoming cost burdened. For instance the City currently offers eviction prevention and water utility assistance. There are also programs that to aid homeless school children with additional assistance to improve their grades and attendance.

Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing

The City plans to help foster affordable housing through New Housing Initiatives such as providing affordable housing in the Swan Crossing Subdivision. As well the city will continue to use demolition to

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help improve the sustainability in targeted neighborhoods. Another non-profit service provider in the City of Victoria provides assistance to low-income and very low-income households is Habitat for Humanity. Habitat builds affordable housing for individuals and/or families who earn between 35% HAMFI to 60% HAMFI. To accomplish affordability and not be cost-burdened, Habitat provides mortgages to low-moderate income homeowners interest-free; by leveraging additional grant funding.

Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards

In 2001, HUD implemented regulations that required cities to address lead based paint hazards in their housing programs. From these regulations the cost to rehabilitate one house affected by lead based paint would cost an average of $4,000 more per unit than one without a lead based paint hazard. The City recognizes a need for reducing the quantity of homes with lead based paint and will continue to support rehabilitation activities; however, due to rising costs it is not feasible to fund a program in the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan program year.

Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families

urrently there are no policies to reduce the number of households with incomes below the poverty level, but there is a program; Opportunity Knocks at Perpetual Help Homes’ Center of Peace to help reduce the number of families living in poverty. This program offers job skills, education and employment to women who are low-income, at risk homeless and homeless women living in the transitional shelter. The City is currently allowing the maximum 15% of its funding towards Public Service Agencies, and 52% of the budget is being directed towards Public Facility Improvements. With the funding provided towards public services and public facilities the City is aiming to improve the quality of life of those persons currently living in poverty.

Actions planned to develop institutional structure

The City of Victoria Development Services Department oversees the development of the Consolidated Plan and is responsible for the oversight of activities funded through the CDBG Program. Development Services assures the eligibility of proposed projects, assists in accountability review, and meets financial and oversight requirements of HUD. The activities undertaken with CDBG funds involve other city offices such as Code Enforcement, Environmental Services, Parks & Recreation and Public Works. The City will continue to use its existing institutional structure during the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan Year to ensure CDBG funds are allocated to the proper organizations.

Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies

The City of Victoria will continue to coordinate with agencies during monthly meetings to address the needs of service agencies. However, the City is assessing a opportunity to facilitate quarterly meetings

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to streamline information and increase communication and coordination.

Discussion:

The City of Victoria will take many steps during the 2015/2016 Annual Action Plan Program Year to enhance services to low and moderate income residents by identifying and reducing obstacles and barriers to addressing the needs cost effectively and efficiently within the Federal regulations. The ease of communication between City staff, and the public and subrecipients of CDBG funding will allow for funding to go to the appropriate programs.

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Program Specific Requirements AP-90 Program Specific Requirements – 91.220(l)(1,2,4)

Introduction:

The following section addresses the program-specific requirements for the Annual Action Plan.

Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(1) Projects planned with all CDBG funds expected to be available during the year are identified in the Projects Table. The following identifies program income that is available for use that is included in projects to be carried out.

1. The total amount of program income that will have been received before the start of the next program year and that has not yet been reprogrammed 16,181 2. The amount of proceeds from section 108 loan guarantees that will be used during the year to address the priority needs and specific objectives identified in the grantee's strategic plan. 0 3. The amount of surplus funds from urban renewal settlements 0 4. The amount of any grant funds returned to the line of credit for which the planned use has not been included in a prior statement or plan 0 5. The amount of income from float-funded activities 0 Total Program Income: 16,181

Other CDBG Requirements

1. The amount of urgent need activities 0

2. The estimated percentage of CDBG funds that will be used for activities that benefit persons of low and moderate income. Overall Benefit - A consecutive period of one, two or three years may be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income. Specify the years covered that include this Annual Action Plan. 100.00%

The current unprogrammed program income has been included in the 2015-2016 Action Plan for the City of Victoria. As program income is received the action plan will be amended accordingly based on the requirements in the Citizen Participation Plan.

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Attachments

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Citizen Participation Comments

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Grantee Unique Appendices

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Grantee SF-424's and Certification(s)

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Appendixx - Alternate/Local Data Sources

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