FY17 ACTION PLAN - MAY 11, 2016CITY OF SALEM
~ ONE-YEAR ACTION PLAN ~
(YEAR 2 OF 5 OF THE 5-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN)
JULY 1, 2016 – JUNE 30, 2017
FISCAL YEAR 2017
(HUD 2016 FUNDS)
MAY 11, 2016
Kimberley Driscoll
Mayor
Lynn Goonin Duncan, AICP
Director of Planning & Community Development
Kathleen Winn
Deputy Director of Planning & Community Development
Jane A. Guy
Assistant Community Development Director
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 3
CDBG 101: What Can Be Funded? ........................................................................................................... 3
FY17 Action Plan Summary of Proposed Activities ................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................................... 11
AP-05 Executive Summary - 91.200(c), 91.220(b) .................................................................................. 11
PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies - 91.200(b) .................................................................................... 18
AP-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l) ................................................................................. 19
AP-12 Participation - 91.401, 91.105, 91.200(c) ..................................................................................... 26
Expected Resources .................................................................................................................................... 29
AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.420(b), 91.220(c) (1, 2) ........................................................................ 29
Annual Goals and Objectives ...................................................................................................................... 34
AP-35 Projects - 91.420, 91.220(d) ......................................................................................................... 40
AP-38 Project Summary .......................................................................................................................... 42
AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.420, 91.220(f) ................................................................................ 50
AP-85 Other Actions - 91.420, 91.220(k) ................................................................................................ 51
Program Specific Requirements .................................................................................................................. 56
Appendix
LMI Map
Application For Federal Funding (SF-424) & Certifications
Other Resources
Citizen Participation Comments
Part 1 - Public Participation Process
Part 2 - Review of Draft Plan
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Introduction
The Federal funding that Salem will receive for FY17 includes $995,257 in CDBG funds, an estimated
$101,172 in HOME funds and a projected $112,500 in program income. Total proposed expenditures
based on current estimates of funding to be available are $1,208,929.
Many activities leverage funding from other sources to maximize the impact of the federal dollars the
city receives. Together, these resources fund a wide range of activities designed to develop and
maintain affordable housing, improve neighborhood public facilities, provide economic opportunities,
improve access for people with disabilities, provide critical public services, assist people who are
homeless, and prevent homelessness. The City bases its funding allocations on needs identified,
proposed activities and accomplishments to meet those needs and estimated funding needed to reach
the goals and accomplishment levels.
CDBG 101: What Can Be Funded?
Although CDBG funds can be used for many types of housing, community and economic development
activities, some restrictions apply. CDBG funds must be used for an eligible activity, must address at
least one of three “national objectives” set by Congress, and a majority of the funds must be spent on
activities that benefit very low, low or moderate income people.
National Objectives
Benefit to very low, low and moderate income persons
Activities that serve a “limited clientele”
Limited clientele refers to certain populations presumed by HUD to have very low, low or
moderate incomes: abused children, battered spouses, elderly persons, severely disabled
adults, homeless persons, illiterate persons, persons living with AIDS and migrant farm
workers
Serving people with incomes below the very low, low or moderate income threshold (see
“Income Limits” below)
Area benefit activities
Activity conducted in a service area that is primarily residential, and at least 51% of the
residents have very low, low or moderate incomes (see Map in Appendix). The activity
must meet the needs of very low, low and moderate income persons.
Job creation or retention activities
At least 51% of the jobs created or retained must be available to and held by very low, low
or moderate income people
Aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight
Area Basis - Must be a formally designated area (i.e. Salem’s downtown)
Spot Basis – Only a limited set of activities qualify
Urban Renewal Area
Meet a need having a particular urgency
Recent emergency conditions only, posing an immediate threat to health or welfare of
community and no other funding is available
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Eligible Activities
CDBG funds may be used for a variety of activities. In general, the activities fall into these categories:
Anti-Crime Programs
Economic Development
Homeless & HIV/Aids Programs
Housing
Infrastructure
Planning & Administration
Public Facilities
Public Services
Senior Programs
Youth Programs
What Does “Very Low, Low or Moderate Income” Mean?
Each year HUD publishes “income limits” that define very low, low and moderate income levels used in
several housing and community development programs. The income limits are determined by
household size and the median incomes in a particular area1. Below are the income limits in effect for
Salem as of March, 2016.
Income Limits
Household Size
ONE
TWO
THREE
FOUR
FIVE
SIX
SEVEN
EIGHT
MODERATE
(80% of Median) 51,150 58,450 65,750 73,050 78,900 84,750 90,600 96,450
LOW
(50% of Median) 34,350 39,250 44,150 49,050 53,000 56,900 60,850 64,750
VERY LOW
(30% of Median) 20,650 23,600 26,550 29,450 31,850 34,200 36,730 40,890
1 Salem’s median income is $98,100
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40 Ward Street is slated for
acquisition and rehabilitation into
affordable units by North Shore
CDC. Photo courtesy of Google.
FY17 Action Plan Summary of Proposed Activities
The following section describes the activities proposed for FY17 in the categories of Affordable Housing,
Economic Development, Neighborhood Improvements, Public Services and Planning & Administration
that will be undertaken with CDBG and/or HOME funds. The activities listed are a combination of those
managed by the city and by community organizations.
Typically, the City identifies activities to be funded from a specific year’s resources, but for some
projects, such as multi-year funding commitments or construction projects, the activity may be
completed in the following fiscal year or undertaken over several fiscal years. It is not uncommon for the
City to have projects that are ongoing from a previous fiscal year.
FY17 Affordable Housing Activities
Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program
The Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program provides technical and
financial assistance to help homeowners make needed improvements
to their properties. The program’s primary objectives are the
elimination of lead paint, hazardous health and safety conditions,
code violations, and barriers to accessibility. The program
rehabilitates owner-occupied single and multi-family properties,
which also creates and/or improves rental opportunities. As
requested by residents to address the issue of substandard rental
housing, this program also addresses building code violations and
health and safety issues in investor-owned properties with preference
to locations in low to moderate income neighborhoods. Upon
completion of the rehabilitation, and for at least 15 years thereafter,
all rental units assisted with federal funding will be restricted to
affordable rents.2
Projected Accomplishments: 2 Housing Units Rehabbed
Proposed Funding: $35,000 CDBG; $43,137 HOME
This activity will also use carried over funding from FY16 (for additional units)
First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program
The First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program provides 0 percent interest,
deferred-payment loans to households that wish to purchase a home in the City of Salem. The loan is
deferred, as long as ownership of the property is not sold, transferred or refinanced. This program
provides renters with the opportunity to become homeowners, while potentially freeing up a rental unit
for another family.
Projected Accomplishments: 5 Households Assisted
Proposed Funding: $40,000 CDBG
TP
2PT Rents are established by HUD annually.
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Ribbon Cutting at Bonchon
Rental Assistance Programs
The Rental Downpayment Assistance Program, administered through local social service agencies,
provides assistance to low- and very low-income Salem residents to help pay first and last month’s rents
and security deposits to enable them to obtain decent housing or to help subsidized rents on a
temporary basis for families escaping violence.
Projected Accomplishments: 41 Households assisted
Proposed Funding: $55,000 HOME
Affordable Housing Development
Pool of funds for when opportunities arise for pre-development, acquisition and/or rehabilitation of
affordable housing units (at or below 80% of AMI) by non-profit housing developers and/or CHDO’s.
Projected Accomplishments: Several projects are currently in the pipeline. It is anticipated that 64
housing units will be completed in FY17.
Proposed Funding: $75,000 CDBG (for a minimum of 2 units for affordable housing as yet to be
determined); Carried over HOME funding from FY16 will also be used for specific development projects.
Rehabilitation Administration
Provides for the administration costs necessary to manage our rehabilitation programs, including
inspectional services, mortgage filings, salary, benefits and non-salary expenses.
Proposed Funding: $92,000 CDBG; $3,035 HOME
Fiscal Year 2017 Economic Development Activities
Small Business Financial Assistance Programs
The City provides financial assistance to local business owners through its
Business Loan Program and Storefront Improvement Program, which are
operated out of a funding pool.
The Salem Business Loan Program works to expand financing
opportunities for local entrepreneurs, while creating jobs for low- and
moderate-income individuals and revitalizing the city’s downtown and
income-eligible neighborhoods. The program provides low-interest loans
to qualified entrepreneurs to cover the gap between the amount of
financing needed for an economic development project and the amount
that conventional lenders can finance. Funds are available for acquisition,
construction, or rehabilitation of real property and for financing related
to the purchase of equipment, fixtures, inventory, leasehold
improvements and working capital. Terms/conditions of the loans vary.
The Storefront Improvement Program – Designed to encourage private investment and reinvestment by
new and existing property/business owners in eligible commercial districts, the program allows a one-
to-one match for façade improvements. The match from the city is up to $5,000 for each storefront.
Projected Accomplishments: 2 business assisted, minimum of 2 jobs created
Proposed Funding: $36,600. This activity may also use carried over funding from FY16.
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Business Technical Assistance
The City helps to coordinate and fund technical assistance services to local business owners. In FY17, the
City will continue to fund the Salem Main Streets Downtown Program. The goal of the Program is to
assist in the revitalization of downtown Salem as a vibrant year-round retail, dining and cultural
destination through business recruitment, retention and promotion. Main Streets works with
entrepreneurs and business owners to secure needed resources and navigate approval processes. Main
Streets also works to improve the downtown business climate in support of additional economic
development. The Enterprise Center’s Microenterprise Program will create a small business “Tuesday”
in the Point Neighborhood one day a week for drop-in and scheduled appointments with bi-lingual staff.
The program will provide business counseling workshops, one-on-one sessions, and monthly networking
breakfasts for primarily micro-enterprise businesses. Technical assistance is also provided to new and
existing businesses by the City’s Economic Development Planner, who administers the City’s financial
assistance programs and provides administration to the Salem Redevelopment Authority, which has
approval authority over projects occurring in the Downtown Urban Renewal Area (slum/blight area).
Projected Accomplishments: 22 microenterprise owners/potential owners assisted, min. 5 jobs created
Proposed Funding: $150,400
Fiscal Year 2017 Neighborhood Improvement Activities
Point Neighborhood Flood Prevention
Improvements
Installation of 90 catch basin inlet trash
guards in existing catch basins that do not
have sumps. This will prevent floatable trash
from entering and clogging downstream
piping, which can result in flooding in the
Point Neighborhood and/or pollution to
Salem Harbor.
Projected Accomplishments: Installation of
90 catch basin inlet trash guards.
Proposed Funding: $115,500
Point Neighborhood Improvements
Various improvements to infrastructure and/or parks and playgrounds (i.e. Palmer Cove, MaryJane Lee,
Peabody Street and/or Lafayette Parks/Playgrounds).
Projected Accomplishments: Various infrastructure improvements
Proposed Funding: $65,000. This activity may also use carried over funds from FY16.
Park/playground Improvements
Various improvements to parks in eligible neighborhoods (i.e. McGlew Park).
Projected Accomplishments: Various infrastructure improvements
Proposed Funding: $41,000. This activity may also use carried over funds from FY16.
The City will look at various locations in the downtown for consideration
of public art projects.
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Point Neighborhood Teen Resource Center
Purchase of new furnace and other required improvements to structure.
Proposed Funding: $7,500
Downtown Improvements
Undertake infrastructure improvements to support Salem's slum/blight area (downtown) and
complement ongoing Economic Development activities. Projects may include street & sidewalk
improvements, pedestrian circulation, safety and aesthetics, accessibility improvements, tree planting,
trash receptacles, traffic improvements, lighting, signage and open space improvements, as well as
improvements to public facilities and public infrastructure. The City will also look at various locations in
the downtown for consideration of public art projects.
Proposed Funding: $50,000
Neighborhood Street and Sidewalk Improvements/Tree Planting
The City’s Street Improvement Program funds the repaving of streets, installation of curb
cuts/crosswalks, replacement of sidewalks and planting of street trees in eligible neighborhoods.
Proposed Funding: $5,000
The Neighborhood Improvement category will also include $7,594 for program delivery costs.
Fiscal Year 2017 Social Services Activities
Community Support Services
This program provides grants to nonprofit agencies for
social service programs that assist homeless individuals
and families, as well as low- and moderate-income Salem
residents in need. Funded programs are selected through
a competitive Request for Proposal process.
Proposed Accomplishments: Grants for approximately
24 social service agency programs to assist an estimated
8,600 persons.
Proposed Funding: $166,163
Fiscal Year 2017 Social Services Funding Proposals Received:
Located within or steps from the Point Neighborhood:
Catholic Charities - Homeless Prevention Program
HAWC - Emergency Shelter Children’s Services
HAWC - Homeless Prevention Program
Independent Living Center of the North Shore and Cape Ann, Inc. - Housing Assistance Services
North Shore CDC - Family Resource Center
Salem Community Child Care – Kindergarten Afterschool Program
Photo courtesy of North Shore Community
Development Coalition
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The City has been awarded a Massachusetts
Historical Commission matching grant for a
downtown historic resource survey. Photos:
DPCD & Google
Salem Police Department - Point Targeted Patrols
VOCES - Hispanic Education Program
Located in Downtown Salem:
Lifebridge - Medical & Outreach Supportive Services
Leap for Education - College Ready Program
Salem YMCA - Afterschool Program
Located within Salem:
Aspire Developmental Services, Inc. (formerly Cerebral Palsy Association of Eastern Mass., Inc. - North
Shore Infant & Toddler Program
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem - Power Hour
Eastgate Christian Fellowship - Joseph’s Storehouse Food Pantry
Inversant (@ Salem High School) – Salem Families College Savings Program
Salem Council on Aging - Senior Transportation Program
Salem Council on Aging –Art Program for Senior Citizens
Salem Park, Recreation & Community Services – Playground Instructors
The North Shore Moving Market – Food Delivery for Elderly, Disabled and Disadvantage
The Salvation Army - Homeless Prevention Program
Wellspring House - MediClerk Job Training Program
Located outside Salem (but available to Salem residents):
Haven From Hunger - Food Pantry Program
North Shore Community Action Programs, Inc. - Homeless Prevention Program
1647 c/o National Center on Time & Learning – Teacher Home Visits & Family Engagement
Fiscal Year 2017 Planning & Administration Activities
General Program Administration
This activity provides for the necessary general administration costs of
the CDBG program oversight and coordination. It also includes the
development of plans and studies and the provision of public
information. General administration costs are capped at 20 percent of
the available CDBG funds.
Proposed Funding: $221,000 (salary, benefits, non-salary expenses,
studies). This includes funds required
to match grant funds being provided
by Massachusetts Historical
Commission to undertake the
Downtown Salem Cultural Resource
Survey Update project.
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Ongoing Activities
While a number of activities take place entirely in one fiscal year, the City undertakes projects of a larger
size, scope or complexity as multi-year projects. The chart below provides a list of ongoing activities and
those that will likely continue into FY17.
Project Description
Economic Development Programs
Programs include Business Loans, Neighborhood Storefront
Improvements. Business Technical Assistance and Salem Main
Streets Initiative.
Housing Programs
Included are First-Time Homebuyers Downpayment Assistance
Program, Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program and Affordable
Housing Programs.
Point Neighborhood Park &
Playground Improvements
Various improvements to Palmer Cove, Peabody Street and/or
Lafayette Parks/Playgrounds.
Neighborhood Street & Sidewalk
Improvements
Repaving of streets, installation of curb cuts/crosswalks, and
replacement of sidewalks in eligible neighborhoods.
Salem Council on Aging Ongoing Improvements
Neighborhood Historic Signs Replacing existing or installing new sign panels in eligible
neighborhoods.
Point Neighborhood Visioning
Project
Improvements per the Point Neighborhood Visioning Action
Plan will be implemented (i.e. lighting, basketball court,
signage, benches).
Downtown Improvements Infrastructure improvements to enhance pedestrian
circulation, public art, safety and aesthetics.
McGlew Park Improvements to park (will also use FY16 funds).
MaryJane Lee Park Improvements Improvements to park/playground.
Boston Street Neighborhood
Improvements Infrastructure improvements.
Tree Planting Tree planting in eligible neighborhoods
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Executive Summary
AP-05 Executive Summary - 91.200(c), 91.220(b)
1. Introduction
Each year, the City of Salem receives funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) to undertake housing and community development activities. These funds are used
to undertake housing, community and economic development projects and programs that assist low- to
moderate-income individuals, families and neighborhoods. In order to receive these funds, the City must
prepare a Consolidated Plan every five years, as well as annual Action Plans to implement each year of
the five-year plan. Together, the Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plans provide a record of how
Salem evaluated its needs and presents a blueprint of how it will use the federal funds to be received.
The Consolidated Plan establishes a vision for attaining a higher quality of life for low- and moderate-
income residents and the annual Action Plan outlines specific activities that work toward accomplishing
that vision. Salem's current Consolidated Plan was completed in 2015, along with the Fiscal Year 2016
Action Plan (Year 1).
This document is the City of Salem's Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2017 (Year 2). It describes the activities
that the City will undertake in the next fiscal year (July 1, 2016-June 30, 2017) with Community
Development Block Grant and Home Investment Partnership funds.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are used to benefit low- and moderate-income
persons or to prevent or eliminate slums or blight in Salem through a variety of community
development programs. CDBG is a formula-based program designed to develop viable urban
communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic
opportunities for persons of low- and moderate-income.
In addition, Salem is a member of the North Shore HOME Consortium and receives an allocation of
Home Investment Partnership (HOME) funds. HOME funds are dedicated solely for housing programs,
and can be used to fund a wide range of activities that build, buy and/or rehabilitate affordable housing
for rent or home ownership. The City of Salem is one of thirty member communities in the North Shore
HOME Consortium.
These funds can be used for projects or programs undertaken by the City or by organizations engaged by
the City.
The complete FY17 Action Plan, with cover, table of contents, introduction and appendices is located at
http://www.salem.com/sites/salemma/files/uploads/fy17actionplanfinalwsf424.pdf.
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2. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan
In 2006, HUD devised a means to uniformly measure accomplishments funded through its housing and
community development programs. In doing so, HUD determined that activities should meet one of
three specific objectives and three outcomes. They are:
Objectives
Activities must meet one of the following three objectives:
Suitable Living Environment - In general, this objective relates to activities that benefit communities,
families or individuals by addressing issues in their living environment.
Decent Housing - Activities found under this objective cover the wide range of housing possible under
HOME or CDBG. This objective focuses on housing programs where the purpose of the program is to
meet individual family or community needs and not programs where housing is an element of a larger
effort. Such programs should be reported under Suitable Living Environment.
Creating Economic Opportunities - This objective applies to economic development, commercial
revitalization or job creation activities.
Outcomes
Activities must work to achieve one of three outcomes as follows:
Availability/Accessibility - This outcome category applies to activities that make services, infrastructure,
public services, public facilities, housing, or shelter available or accessible to low- and moderate-income
people, including persons with disabilities. In this category, accessibility does not refer only to physical
barriers, but also to making the affordable basics of daily living available and accessible to low and
moderate income people where they live.
Affordability - This outcome category applies to activities that provide affordability in a variety of ways
in the lives of low- and moderate-income people. It can include the creation or maintenance of
affordable housing, basic infrastructure hook-ups, or services such as transportation and day care.
Sustainability - Promoting Livable or Viable Communities - This outcome applies to projects where the
activity or activities are aimed at improving communities or neighborhoods, helping to make them
livable or viable by providing benefit to persons of low- and moderate-income or by removing or
eliminating slums or blighted areas.
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The table summarized the proposed projects’ objectives and outcomes for FY17.
3. Evaluation of past performance
During the many years of Salem’s CDBG Program, the City has made significant improvements to the
City’s physical and social environment for its low- and moderate-income residents. The CDBG program
has had a strong impact in Salem, as seen through the numerous homes rehabilitated, neighborhood
facilities and infrastructure improved, businesses strengthened, jobs created and families served
through our public service agencies.
The annual Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) provides an analysis of the
accomplishments and progress the City has made toward meeting the goals and objectives laid out in its
Five Year Consolidated Plan. The FY16 CAPER, for the current fiscal year, will be available by September
30, 2016. The most recent CAPER, for FY15, evaluated the fifth fiscal year of the previous 5-Year
Consolidated Plan. HUD calculated that 81.45% of CDBG funds spent in FY15 directly benefited low- and
moderate-income persons. The FY15 CAPER is available at the City of Salem Department of Planning and
Community Development (DPCD), the Salem Public Library and on the City’s website at
www.salem.com.
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The chart illustrates FY15 spending by category, as a percentage of overall CDBG and HOME
expenditures.
FY15 CDBG & HOME Expenditures by Category
4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process
As part of the process in developing the 2015 Consolidated Plan, public input was sought from residents,
businesses, social service organizations and various stakeholders. A series of nine community meetings
and focus groups were held throughout the city and targeted various neighborhoods and populations.
Individual stakeholder interviews were conducted along with an online survey in English and Spanish.
The result was a comprehensive strategy for the use of Salem’s federal housing and community
development funds for July 2015 through June 2020.
Identifying the needs of the community is an on-going process. Each year, the City holds additional
public hearings and comment periods to review those goals and to make specific recommendations for
programs and initiatives to be undertaken in a given year.
For the 2nd year Action Plan, citizen participation included a public hearing in January, 2016 and the
collection of written comment. In order to include broad public participation, outreach to participate
included an English/Spanish legal notice in the Salem News. An English/Spanish public notice was
posted at City Hall and City Hall Annex, was sent to the Salem Public Library, Salem Council on Aging and
the Salem Housing Authority for posting, was provided to all City Councillors, was placed on the City’s
website and was mailed to various social service agencies and neighborhood associations, as well as the
Citizens Advisory Committee members. A press release was sent to the Salem News, Salem Gazette and
other media. An English/Spanish Community Bulletin Board request was posted with Salem Access
Television.
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The City publicized the availability of the draft Action Plan and the date/time of the public hearing and
the public comment period in several ways, targeting residents, businesses, social service organizations
and civic groups. Information regarding plan availability and the upcoming comment period and public
hearing was provided to those attending the Salem H.O.P.E. meeting of March 10, 2016. An
English/Spanish Community Bulletin Board request was provided to Salem Access Television. An
English/Spanish legal ad was published in the Salem News indicating the availability of plans and
providing notice of the 30 day comment period and scheduled public hearing. English/Spanish notices
were posted at City Hall and City Hall Annex and on www.salem.com. Notices were provided to the
Salem Public Library, Salem Council on Aging and the Salem Housing Authority, and were mailed to
several social service agencies, neighborhood associations and Citizens Advisory Committee members.
The notices were also emailed to the Salem H.O.P.E. distribution list. A press release was sent to the
Salem News and the Salem Gazette and othe rmedia.
Copies of the plans were provided to the Salem Housing Authority and Salem Public Library for public
viewing and copies were available at the Department of Planning & Community Development. Copies of
the plan were provided to the members of the Citizens Advisory Committee. The plan was made
available for download on www.salem.com.
The public comment period commenced on March 23, 2016 and ends on April 22, 2016. A public hearing
is to be held on April 7, 2016 at City Hall Annex. Copies of the draft plans are provided to all attendees.
A Spanish translator is present. Copies of the draft plans are provided to the Salem City Council. The
City Council approves submission of the Application for Federal Assistance.
Public hearing minutes are located in the Appendix.
5. Summary of public comments
On January 21, 2016 a public meeting was held for all interested persons at City offices at 120
Washington Street. Spanish translation was provided. A public participation guidebook was provided to
all attendees. There were four attendees. They expressed a need for funds to assist persons in avoiding
eviction, including families, single parents and women. Priority needs stated were housing (including
moving expenses and incidentals), heating and emergency assistance, including short term rental
assistance. Transportation, particular for disabled persons, and access to handicapped parking and door
entry are issues. There is a need for curb cuts and sidewalks in specific areas, as well as locations of
flooding.
The Draft Action Plan was made available for public comment from March 23, 2016 through April 22,
2016. Written comment from two persons supporting funds for the Wellspring House's MediClerk
Program were received.
A public hearing was held on April 7, 2016 for all interested persons at City offices at 120 Washington
Street. Spanish translation was provided. A copy of the Draft FY17 Action Plan was provided to each
attendee. There were two attendees. One commenter was concerned about the cost of flood insurance
now that our lowest LMI neighborhood is now considered to be in a flood zone. She also asked if funds
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were set aside for emergency displacement during fire, flood or other disaster. She also asked about re-
establishing the DARE Program in public schools.
Public hearing minutes are located in the Appendix.
6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them
All comments and views were taken into consideration in preparation of this Action Plan.
Assistance with the cost of flood insurance is not CDBG eligible. For major disasters, the City would seek
disaster relief funds. For displacement, we have provided extra funds to housing agencies to provide
direct assistance (i.e. temporary hotel stay and/or first/last/security) to displaced tenants. Note: In
FY17, the City has set aside funds for flood prevention improvements in the Point Neighborhood.
The Police Chief and School Superintendent are working to provide education on drug/opiate issues, (i.e.
during Health class 3-4 times a semester). A new Youth Services Officer will check on juveniles on
probation and will be involved in the On Point program with the Plummer Home and Salem Probation.
The officer will be active in elementary schools including some instruction. The Essex County Summer
Day Program, in essence an extension of the DARE program, runs every summer and includes 70-100
incoming Salem fifth graders ach year. They are seeking grants to fund a drug counselor and to do more
in schools (i.e. follow-up visits with overdose victims, persuade victims to get into treatment and then
find programs for them, empower youth to try to avoid situations that put them at risk, etc.), as well as
a parents’ program to teach the signs that a child may be at risk/involved and how to find treatment and
support for themselves and their families.
7. Summary
The Federal funding that Salem will receive for FY17 includes $995,257 in CDBG funds, an estimated
$101,172 in HOME funds and a projected $112,500 in program income. Total proposed expenditures
based on current estimates of funding to be available are $1,208,929.
Many activities leverage funding from other sources to maximize the impact of the federal dollars the
city receives. Together, these resources fund a wide range of activities designed to develop and
maintain affordable housing, improve neighborhood public facilities, provide economic opportunities,
improve access for people with disabilities, provide critical public services, assist people who are
homeless, and prevent homelessness. The City bases its funding allocations on needs identified,
proposed activities and accomplishments to meet those needs and estimated funding needed to reach
the goals and accomplishment levels.
The pie chart illustrates the city’s proposed FY17 spending by category, as a percentage of estimated
CDBG and HOME funds. It is estimated that at least 70 percent of the FY17 CDBG funding and 100
percent of the HOME funding will be used for activities that benefit persons of low- and moderate-
income.
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Typically, the City identifies activities to be funded from a specific year’s resources, but for some
projects, such as multi-year funding commitments or construction projects, the activity may be
completed in the following fiscal year or undertaken over several fiscal years. It is not uncommon for the
City to have projects that are ongoing from a previous fiscal year.
Affordable Housing,
$343,172 , 28%
Economic
Development,
$187,000 , 16%
Neighborhood
Improvements,
$291,594 , 24%
Public Services,
$166,163 , 14%
Planning &
Administration,
$221,000 , 18%
FY17 Proposed Expenditures (CDBG & HOME)
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PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies - 91.200(b)
1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan
The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administrat ion of
each grant program and funding source.
Agency Role Name Department/Agency
CDBG Administrator SALEM Department of Planning & Community Development
Table 1 – Responsible Agencies
Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
For inquiries or to send written comment contact:
City of Salem
Department of Planning & Community Development
120 Washington Street
Salem, MA 01970
Att: Jane A. Guy, Assistant Community Development Director
T: 978-619-5685
E: jguy@salem.com
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AP-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)
1. Introduction
The City of Salem uses CDBG funds to support specific projects and initiatives that are needed by its
residents and that meet HUD’s national goals and objectives. Identifying the needs of the community is
an on-going process.
In 2014, the City of Salem retained Community Opportunities Group, Inc. (COG) to prepare its 5 Year
Consolidated Plan (covering city Fiscal Years 2016-2020) and first year Action Plan (FY16). In developing
the Consolidated Plan, a series of nine community meetings and focus groups were held throughout the
city, including a public hearing. The meetings were held at the Salem Housing Authority, at
neighborhood meetings within specific wards with large low- and moderate-income (LMI) populations,
in the City Hall offices, at community organizations, and at Salem State University to reach broad
population. The focus groups targeted persons with disabilities, housing providers, businesses and
seniors. Individual stakeholder interviews were conducted with city staff, social service providers,
residents, business owners, and other persons and organizations familiar with local needs.
In addition, COG interviewed and consulted with staff from provider agencies who serve Salem
residents, both located in and outside of Salem. Also, an on-line survey (in Spanish and English)
generated 318 responses. The purpose of this process was to obtain an understanding of the
population’s needs and the resources available to address the needs, as well to gain an understanding of
gaps of needed programs and services. This process also served to assist the City in determining how
HUD, along with other federal and state and private funds could be used most effectively. While many of
the various local and regional agencies have a good awareness of the existence of other agencies and
their respective programs and services, the consultation process helped to refresh inter-agency
coordination.
In May, 2015, after months of public hearings and public comment, the City adopted the Five Year
Consolidated Plan, highlighting the community development needs and goals for July 2015– June 2020.
Each year, the City holds additional public hearings and comment periods to review those goals and to
make specific recommendations for programs and initiatives to be undertaken in a given year. The result
is the annual Action Plan, designed to put into action the goals and strategies established in the
Consolidated Plan.
It is important to note that the Action Plan is not a budget, but rather a planning tool that outlines the
priorities and activities that the City will undertake to address housing, community and economic
development needs. Proposed activities must meet HUD’s eligibility rules, and must be consistent with
the Consolidated Plan. The City identifies estimated costs for each proposed activity included in this
document. During the year, should the cost of the proposed activities change, these values can be
adjusted. In addition, the City can reallocate unused funds to assist new programs that may be
developed during the course of the year, or to supplement existing activities that require additional
funding.
20
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(l)).
The City works cooperatively with private housing providers and private and governmental health,
mental health, and service agencies and other interested parties to implement its Consolidated Plan.
The DPCD leads Salem H.O.P.E. (Human Organization Partnership Effort), a networking group of human
service agencies that serves Salem residents. H.O.P.E. provides an opportunity for agencies to learn
about the services being provided by other agencies in order to fill in gaps, coordinate efforts and avoid
duplication of services. All human service agencies are invited to attend the quarterly Steering
Committee breakfast meetings held at rotating agency locations. Through this program, agency
representatives are (re-)introduced to each other and exchange information, announcements and
updates.
Although the City does not currently use its CDBG funds to assist the Salem Housing Authority (SHA), the
DPCD coordinates with the SHA to address the housing needs of Salem’s lower-income residents.
Proposed development sites or demolition or disposition of existing public housing developments must
follow established regulatory procedures administered by City agencies. Some of these, such as the
Board of Appeal and Planning Board have staff support from the DPCD.
The City also works with nonprofit agencies to administer social service activities. The City issues annual
Requests for Proposals (RFP) for public services, housing services, and economic development funding to
undertake priority programs outlined in the Consolidated Plan. Additionally, the City cooperates and
coordinates with other agencies and funding sources to support specific activities. Examples of these
include MassHousing’s “Get the Lead Out” and Massachusetts Housing Partnership’s “Soft Second
Mortgage” programs.
The City of Peabody is the lead community for the North Shore HOME Consortium. Salem works with
the consortium to coordinate the implementation of its HOME-funded programs. Salem also works with
local CHDOs and CDCs to carry out priority activities.
The City also issues an annual RFP to municipal departments to request funding to undertake public
facility and infrastructure improvements in LMI and/or slum/blight neighborhoods.
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 major homeless needs in the area are primarily serviced through the
Gloucester/Haverhill/Salem/Essex County Continuum of Care (CoC) which is referred to locally as the
North Shore Continuum of Care Alliance. The lead entity for the CoC is the City of Peabody, which also
oversees the North Shore HOME Consortium, of which Salem is a member. Through the Consortium, the
21
CoC has received funds through the McKinney-Vento program. The Consortium distributes these funds
directly to area organizations. Salem-based Lifebridge has been a subrecipient of these funds.
Salem’s DPCD works directly with programs that participate in the North Shore CoC, including the North
Shore Community Action Programs, Inc. (NSCAP), Lifebridge, and HAWC, to support and enhance
programs that address at-risk and homeless families. The City relies on its CDBG funding to address
homeless needs and conduct homelessness prevention activities through public social services funding.
Each year, through the public services program, the City of Salem solicits proposals from nonprofit
organizations for housing and community services. Through this process, the City funds various
homeless programs which may include rental down payment assistance, homelessness prevention
emergency assistance, medical services, outreach, and transitional housing. Salem provides NSCAP,
Salvation Army, Catholic Charities and HAWC with CDBG funding for Homelessness Prevention Programs
and provides HOME funding to NSCAP, HAWC and Citizens for Adequate Housing to assist households
with first/last/security payments for rental housing.
NSCAP coordinates the North Shore Housing Action Group (NSHAG), which is a network of social service
agencies, faith-based organizations, elected officials, and businesses who work collaboratively to
address the needs of those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The network covers the
24 cities and towns of Cape Ann, southern Essex County, and the greater Lynn region. NSCHAG’s aim is
to enhance the level of coordination and communication among providers.
In late 2014, the Mayors of Salem and Beverly joined together to create a joint task force to better
understand and address the homelessness problem. The task force is co-chaired by the two mayors and
includes representatives from city departments and service agencies. In February, 2015, Danvers and
Peabody were invited to join the task force. The Mayors’ Task Force on Homelessness proposes to
analyze sub-populations of homeless people: the chronic homeless, homeless families, seniors, teens
and young adults, as well as those with substance abuse, mental health and/or behavioral health issues.
The group will also look at long-term needs for supportive housing, emergency shelter, day
programming, and other support systems.
Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction’s area in
determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop p erformance standards for and evaluate
outcomes of projects and activities assisted by ESG funds, and develop funding, policies and
procedures for the operation and administration of HMIS
No community or agency within Salem’s jurisdiction receives a direct award of ESG funds..
22
2. Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and consultations
Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated
1 Agency/Group/Organization NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM (NSCAP)
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Children
Services-Elderly Persons
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Market Analysis
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
For the Consolidated Plan, Deric LePard of North Shore Community Action
Program (NSCAP) was consulted via phone interview. He provided information
which was incorporated into the Needs Analysis and Market Analysis. NSCAP will
continue to coordinate with the city to implement strategies that provide
community services. For the FY 17 Action Plan, Deric LePard was present at the
Public Hearing and provided comment on current needs.
2 Agency/Group/Organization CATHOLIC CHARITIES
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Children
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
For the FY 17 Action Plan, Jill Bowen was present at the Public Hearing and
provided comment on current needs. She stated that having funds to help people
avoid eviction is most helpful, particularly for families and single parents (women
mostly).
23
3 Agency/Group/Organization INDEPENDENT LIVING CENTER OF THE NORTH SHORE & CAPE ANN, INC.
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with Disabilities
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Market Analysis
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
For the Consolidated Plan, Mary Margaret Moore of the Independent Living
Center of the North Shore and Cape Anne participated in focus groups in the
public participation process. Information provided by the organization was
incorporated in the Needs Analysis and Market Analysis. For the FY 17 Action Plan,
Mary Margaret Moore was present at the Public Hearing and provided comment
on current needs.
4 Agency/Group/Organization NORTH SHORE ELDER SERVICES
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Elderly Persons
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
For the FY 17 Action Plan, Lisa Orgettas was present at the Public Hearing and
provided comment on current needs, which is predominantly housing and
transportation. Her agency’s main focus is on seniors 60+ and that they provide
grant funding to the Salem Council on Aging.
5 Agency/Group/Organization SALEM HOUSING AUTHORITY
Agency/Group/Organization Type PHA
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Public Housing Needs
Market Analysis
Other Actions in FY17 Action Plan
24
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
For the Consolidated Plan, the Salem Housing Authority was consulted via meeting
and phone interview to determine the agency's most pressing needs. In addition,
the SHA's Comprehensive Plan must take into account the findings of the
Consolidated Plan and the City of Salem must certify that the documents are
consistent. Information provided by the SHA was incorporated throughout the
Consolidated Plan. For the FY 17 Action Plan, the SHA was consulted to update
information provided during the Consolidated Plan process.
6 Agency/Group/Organization NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COALITION
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Regional organization
Planning organization
Community Development
What section of the Plan was addressed by
Consultation?
Housing Need Assessment
Non-Homeless Special Needs
Market Analysis
Economic Development
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Agency/Group/Organization
was consulted. What are the anticipated outcomes of
the consultation or areas for improved coordination?
For the Consolidated Plan, the North Shore Community Development Coalition
provided input through focus group meetings and interviews, and contributed
data for the Needs Analysis and Market Analysis. NSCDC will continue to
coordinate with the City of Salem to carry out projects in implementation of the
Strategic Plan. For the FY 17 Action Plan, NSCDC was consulted to update
information provided during the Consolidated Plan process.
Identify any Agency Types not consulted and pro vide rationale for not consulting
For the 5 Year Consolidated Plan, to the City’s knowledge, it consulted with all relevant agency types. There were a few individual agencies for
which contact was attempted but were unable to reach.
25
Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan
Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan?
Continuum of Care City of Peabody
Salem DPCD works directly with Peabody and member agencies in implementation
of the Strategic Plan to support and enhance its existing programs that address at-
risk and homeless families.
North Shore HOME
Consortium Consolidated
Plan
City of Peabody HOME programs overlap with affordable housing-related goals in the Consolidated
Plan.
Salem Housing Authority
Comprehensive Plan Salem Housing Authority The Salem Housing Authority seeks to address the housing needs of lower-income
residents in Salem.
NSWIB 2015-2017 Strategic
Plan
North Shore Workforce
Investment Board, Inc.
The WIB seeks to create economic opportunities that benefit low- and moderate-
income residents and align with the anti-poverty strategy of the Consolidated
Plan.
Downtown Salem Retail
Market Strategy & Action Pla
Salem Redevelopment
Authority
The SRA seeks to create economic opportunities that benefit low- and moderate-
income residents and to improve the downtown which is designated as a slum &
blight area.
Table 3 - Other local / regional / federal planning efforts
Narrative
The Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) coordinates and communicates with other municipal departments, lo cal and
regional agencies, and public and private housing organizations. The DPCD coordinates the Salem H.O.P.E. effort and communicates regularly
with subcontracted agencies delivering social services and subrecipients of federal funds. DPCD also works with the Salem Housing Authority
(SHA), nonprofit organizations, and housing developers to produce affordable housing in the City. The strength of these relationships is
beneficial in streamlining housing development and leveraging additional funds for projects.
26
AP-12 Participation - 91.401, 91.105, 91.200(c)
1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation
Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting
For the 2nd year Action Plan, citizen participation included a public hearing in January, 2016 and the collection of
written comment. In order to include broad public participation, outreach to participate includes an
English/Spanish legal notice in the Salem New and an English/Spanish notice was posted at City Hall & City Hall
Annex. Notices were provided to the Salem Public Library, Salem Council on Aging and the Salem Housing Authority
for posting. An English/Spanish Community Bulletin Board request was posted with Salem Access Television.
Notices and a cover letter were provided to all City Councillors. A press release was sent to the Salem News and
the Salem Gazette and other media. The public hearing notice was also posted to the City’s website and was mailed
to various social service agencies and neighborhood associations, as well as the Citizens Advisory Committee
members.
The City publicized the availability of the draft Action Plan and the date/time of the public hearing and the public
comment period in several ways in order to obtain broad public comment. Information regarding plan availability
and the upcoming comment period and public hearing was provided to those attending the Salem H.O.P.E. meeting
of March 10, 2016. An English/Spanish Community Bulletin Board request was provided to Salem Access Television.
An English/Spanish legal ad was published in the Salem News indicating the availability of plans and providing
notice of the 30 day comment period & scheduled public hearing. English/Spanish notices were posted at City Hall
and City Hall Annex and on www.salem.com. Notices were provided to the Salem Public Library, Salem Council on
Aging and the Salem Housing Authority, and were mailed to several social service agencies, neighborhood
associations and Citizens Advisory Committee members. The notices were also emailed to the Salem H.O.P.E.
distribution list. A press release was sent to the Salem News and the Salem Gazette and othe rmedia.
Copies of the plans were provided to the Salem Housing Authority and Salem Public Library for public viewing and
copies were available at the Department of Planning & Community Development. Copies of the plan were provided
to the members of the Citizens Advisory Committee. The plan was made available for download on
www.salem.com.
The public comment period commenced on March 23, 2016 and ended on April 22, 2016. Written comment from
two persons supporting funds for the Wellspring House's MediClerk Program was received.
A public hearing was be held on April 7, 2016 at City Hall Annex. Copies of the draft plans are provided to all
attendees. A Spanish translator was present. Public hearing minutes are located in the Appendix
Copies of the draft plans were provided to the Salem City Council. The City Council approved submission of the
Application for Federal Assistance.
27
Citizen Participation Outreach
Sort
Order
Mode of
Outreach
Target of
Outreach
Summary of
response/attendance
Summary of
comments received
Summary of comments not accepted
and reasons
1 Public
Meeting
Non-English
Speaking -
Specify other
language:
Spanish
Non-
targeted/broad
community
City Councillors,
Citizens Advisory
Committee,
public service
agencies
On January 21, 2016 a
public meeting was
held for all interested
persons at City offices
at 120 Washington
Street. Spanish
translation was
provided. A public
participation
guidebook was
provided to all
attendees. There
were four attendees.
Need for funds to assist
persons in avoiding eviction,
including families, single
parents and women. Priority
needs include housing
(including moving expenses
and incidentals), heating and
emergency assistance,
including short term rental
assistance. Transportation,
particular for disabled
persons, and access to
handicapped parking and
door entry are issues. Need
for curb cuts and sidewalks
in specific areas, as well as
locations of flooding.
All comments and views were taken into
consideration in preparation of this Action
Plan. The City continues to provide
emergency funds to help avoid eviction,
provides short term rental assistance and
various public service programs to assist with
housing, transportation, handicapped access
and public infrastructure improvements
2 Newspaper
Ad
Non-English
Speaking -
Specify other
language:
Spanish
Non-
targeted/broad
community
City Councillors,
Citizens Advisory
Committee,
public service
agencies
See summary of
citizen participation
above for full
description of
newspaper ads, public
notices and press
releases issued - both
at the start of the
Action Plan process
and upon availability
of the Draft FY17
Action Plan.
Written comment from two
persons supporting funds for
the Wellspring House's
MediClerk Program were
received.
28
Sort
Order
Mode of
Outreach
Target of
Outreach
Summary of
response/attendance
Summary of
comments received
Summary of comments not accepted
and reasons
3 Public
Meeting
Non-English
Speaking -
Specify other
language:
Spanish
Non-
targeted/broad
community
City Councillors,
Citizens Advisory
Committee,
public service
agencies
On April 7, 2016 a
public meeting was
held for all interested
persons at City offices
at 120 Washington
Street. Spanish
translation was
provided. A copy of
the Draft Action Plan
was provided to all
attendees. There
were two attendees.
One commenter was
concerned about the cost of
flood insurance, now that
our lowest LMI
neighborhood is now
considered to be in a flood
zone. She also asked if funds
were set aside for
emergency displacement
during fire, flood or other
disaster. She also asked
about re-establishing the
DARE Program in public
schools.
All comments/views were considered in
preparing this Action Plan. For major
disasters, the City would seek disaster relief
funds. Assistance with the cost of flood
insurance is not CDBG eligible. In FY17, the
City has set aside funds for flood prevention
improvements in the Point Neighborhood.
For displacement, we have provided extra
funds to housing agencies to provide direct
assistance (i.e. temporary hotel stay and/or
first/last/security) to displaced tenants. The
Police Chief and School Superintendent are
working to provide education on drug/opiate
issues, (i.e. during Health class 3-4 times a
semester). A new Youth Services Officer will
check on juveniles on probation and will be
involved in the On Point program with the
Plummer Home and Salem Probation. The
officer will be active in elementary schools
including some instruction. The Essex
County Summer Day Program, in essence an
extension of the DARE program, runs every
summer and includes 70-100 incoming Salem
fifth graders each year. They are seeking
grants to fund a drug counselor and to do
more in schools (i.e. follow-up visits with
overdose victims, persuade victims to get
into treatment and then find programs for
them, empower youth to try to avoid
situations that put them at risk, etc.), as well
as a parents’ program to teach the signs that
a child may be at risk/involved and how to
find treatment and support for themselves
and their families.
Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach
29
Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.420(b), 91.220(c) (1, 2)
Introduction
The City of Salem receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from HUD to benefit low - and moderate-income persons or to
prevent or eliminate slums or blight in Salem through a variety of community development programs. CDBG is a formula-based program
designed to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic
opportunities for persons of low- and moderate-income.
As one of thirty member communicites of the North Shore HOME Consortium, Salem receives an allocation of Home Investment Partnership
(HOME) funds from HUD. HOME funds are dedicated solely for housing programs, and can be used to fund a wide range of activities that build,
buy and/or rehabilitate affordable housing for rent or home ownership. The Consortium, through its lead community of Peabody, submits a
Consolidated Plan for operating the HOME program. The City of Salem will not use HOME funds to refinance any existing debt secured by multi-
family housing developments.
Along with HUD funds, Salem's housing and economic loan programs generate program income, which the City directs to existing or new
programs as needed. Income is generated as loans are repaid or recaptured from an assisted property or business. The City typically receives
program income funds each year and they help extend its ability to support CDBG-eligible activities.
The Federal funding that Salem will receive for FY17 includes $995,257 in CDBG entitlement funds. Additional funds include an estimated
$101,172 in HOME funds and approximately $112,500 in program income (from housing and ED loans and bank interest). Some prior year
resources may be available in FY17, such as unspent administration dollars. However, it is unknown how much will be carried over until after
June 30, 2016.
In addition to these resources, many activities leverage funding from other government and private sources to maximize the impact of the
federal dollars the city receives.
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) was adopted by Salem voters in 2012. It established a local dedicated fund for the purpose of open
space, historic preservation, outdoor recreation and community housing projects. It is financed by a property tax surcharge of 1%, along with
annual matching funds from the statewide CPA Trust Fund. These funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including activities that acquire,
30
create, preserve, support and rehabilitate/restore housing for low- and moderate-income households. An appointed committee recommends
how the funds will be utilized each year. Massachusetts CPA regulations require that a minimum of 10% of annual CPA revenues be set aside or
spent for each of the program areas, including affordable housing, open space and recreation, and historic preservation, with the remaining 70%
to be allocated to any one or more of these program areas. In the 5 Year Consolidated Plan, the city projected an estimated $531,000 annually
from both local and matching funds in future years (based on FY16 funding estimates).
Several housing and community development programs are carried out by non-city agencies that operate through a variety of funding resources.
Together, these resources fund a wide range of activities designed to develop and maintain affordable housing, improve neighborhood public
facilities, provide economic opportunities, improve access for people with disabilities, provide critical public services, assist people who are
homeless, and prevent homelessness. Salem will continue to work with community and regional partners to identify further funding
opportunities that can be used to support affordable housing and other objectives served by CDBG programs, such as the anticipated National
Housing Trust Fund which is expected to be available through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts sometime in 2016.
The following table is for FY16 - Year 1 (HUD 2015).
Anticipated Resources
Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 2 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$
Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
CDBG public -
federal
Acquisition
Admin and
Planning
Economic
Development
Housing
Public
Improvements
Public Services 995,257 112,500 0 1,107,757 2,823,311
CDBG is a formula-based program that
provides decent housing, a suitable living
environment, and expanded economic
opportunities for persons with low- and
moderate income.
31
Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 2 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$
Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
Housing
Trust
Fund
public -
federal
Acquisition
Housing
Other
0 0 0 0 0
Housing Trust Fund - Salem anticipates that
funding from the National Housing Trust
Fund will become available through the
State sometime in 2016. Salem would
consider using these funds for real property
acquisition, site improvements and other
development hard costs, related soft costs,
or if eligible, for supportive services for
housing previously homeless individuals or
persons or households with special needs.
Other public -
federal
Acquisition
Housing
101,172 0 0 101,172 264,885
HOME - Estimated distribution of Home
Investment Partnership (HOME) funds
through North Shore HOME Consortium.
Funds are dedicated solely for housing
programs, and can be used to fund a wide
range of activities that build, buy, and/or
rehabilitate affordable housing for rent or
home ownership. The City of Salem is one of
30 member communities in the North Shore
Home Consortium. On behalf of the member
communities, the Consortium, through its
lead community of Peabody, submits a
Consolidated Plan for operating the HOME
program.
32
Program Source
of
Funds
Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 2 Expected
Amount
Available
Remainder
of ConPlan
$
Narrative Description
Annual
Allocation:
$
Program
Income:
$
Prior Year
Resources:
$
Total:
$
Other public -
local
Acquisition
Housing
Public
Improvements
595,000 0 0 595,000 1,529,000
Community Preservation Act - A surcharge
on the local property tax will generate
approximately $524,000 annually with an
estimated State match of $81,000 annually,
which will be dedicated for affordable
housing, open space, recreation, and historic
preservation projects.
Other public -
local
Admin and
Planning 485,000 0 0 485,000 1,455,000
City funds for Administration & Planning
Other public -
local
Public
Improvements 150,000 0 0 150,000 450,000
City of Salem Capital Improvement Program
(based on average of prior years of projects)
Table 5 - 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
In FY15, CDBG funds leveraged an estimated $7.81 in funds from other sources for every dollar of CDBG funding. The following summarizes the
funds typically leveraged:
First Time Homebuyer Program:matching funds and financing were projected for approximately $131,500 annually. However, in FY15,
homebuyers provided $97,249 in private funds, as well as obtained $865,880 in financing from a primary lender.
Housing development projects by North Shore Community Development Coalition have combined Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and
other state, federal funding, as well as private fundraising, grants, financing, and program fees. North Shore CDC’s 77 unit Salem Point II
project (2015), has a total development cost of $18 million, of which $450,000 comes from CDBG and HOME. The 27 SRO units at Harbor
and Lafayette Homes (2016) will have total development cost of $5.9M, of which $50,000 is HOME. Further projects in the pipeline(2017
and 2018) will entail $35.5M total development cost, creating more than 80 units of affordable housing.
State programs such as Get the Lead Out and MassSaves have been used to assist in home rehabilitation.
The National Housing Trust Fund is anticipated to provide an additional resource to support the creation of affordable rental housing.
33
These funds are expected to be available through the State sometime in 2016.
The Salem Main Streets Program leverages funds through business contributions and donations, as well as program income from events:
$20,000-$50,000 annually.
The City will continue to pursue grant to support economic development and job training. For example, the DPCD is partnering with lead
applicant North Shore Community Development Coalition (NSCDC) on a funding application for round two of the Working Cities
Challenge; a grant program coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston that is designed to support cross-sector, collaborative
leadership and ambitious work to improve the lives of low-income people in smaller cities in Massachusetts. The City had been the lead
partner for round one of the grant program, which provided over $100,000 in funding toward projects benefitting the Point
neighborhood. The team, which also includes Salem State University and the Salem Partnership was awarded $15,000 in 2015 to design
a grant proposal for submission to the program, which is due in May 2016.
Salem is a Gateway City, making it eligible for certain State funds.
The City’s Capital Improvement Program averages $150,000 annually on CDBG-funded projects.
Other leveraged sources include the City's General Fund, State Chapter 91 and various federal, state and private grant or loan programs
for brownfields, parks, and infrastructure improvements. Examples of these include Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for
Communities (PARC), Environmental Protection Agency, National Endowment for the Arts, MassDevelopment Brownfields Assessment
Program, MassWorks, and the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund. The City may also seek state grants including Green
Communities, the Cultural Facilities Fund, and the Gateway Cities Park Program.
Most subrecipient agencies use CDBG as a portion of their overall activity budgets. Examples of several major agency funding sources
are provided in the appendix. Other funding sources include federal and state grants, private grants and donations, and program
income.
The City provides about $485,000 annually for Planning and administration funds.
Additional planning funds and technical assistance have been obtained through Massachusetts Historical Commission and Metropolitan
Area Planning Council.
A listing of anticipated leveraged funds for FY17 is found in the Appendix, including anticipated funding resources for the City of Salem, as well as
several key organizations.
If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located w ithin the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs
identified in the plan
None have been identified at this time.
34
Annual Goals and Objectives
AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives - 91.420, 91.220(c)(3)&(e)
Goals Summary Information
Sort
Order
Goal Name Start
Year
End
Year
Category Geographic
Area
Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
1 Housing
Rehabilitation
Programs
2015 2019 Affordable
Housing
Affordable Housing CDBG:
$127,000
Homeowner Housing
Rehabilitated: 2 Household
Housing Unit
2 Affordable Housing 2015 2019 Affordable
Housing
Affordable Housing CDBG:
$75,000
Rental units constructed: 2
Household Housing Unit
3 First Time
Homebuyer
Program
2015 2019 Affordable
Housing
Affordable Housing
Homeownership
Assistance
CDBG:
$40,000
Direct Financial Assistance to
Homebuyers: 5 Households
Assisted
4 Small Business
Financial Assistance
Programs
2015 2019 Non-Housing
Community
Development
Economic
Development
CDBG:
$36,600
Jobs created/retained: 2 Jobs
5 Business Technical
Assistance
2015 2019 Non-Housing
Community
Development
Economic
Development
CDBG:
$150,400
Jobs created/retained: 5 Jobs
6 Community
Support Services
2015 2019 Homeless
Non-Homeless
Special Needs
Public Services CDBG:
$166,163
Public service activities other than
Low/Moderate Income Housing
Benefit: 8600 Persons Assisted
7 Neighborhood
Improvements
Activities
2015 2019 Non-Homeless
Special Needs
Neighborhood Public
Facilities and
Infrastructure
CDBG:
$241,594
Public Facility or Infrastructure
Activities other than
Low/Moderate Income Housing
Benefit: 8265 Persons Assisted
8 Downtown
Improvements
2015 2019 Non-Housing
Community
Development
Downtown Public
Facilities and
Infrastructure
CDBG:
$50,000
Public Facility or Infrastructure
Activities other than
Low/Moderate Income Housing
Benefit: 5055 Persons Assisted
35
Table 6 - Goals Summary
Goal Descriptions
1 Goal Name Housing Rehabilitation Programs
Goal
Description
The majority of Salem’s housing stock pre-dates 1949. While older homes are an integral part of Salem's history and
neighborhood fabric, they also require a great deal of maintenance and may not meet current building codes. In response to
this issue, the City administers a Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program (funded with both CDBG and HOME funds) to provide
low-interest loans to owners of single and multi-family properties to address cost-prohibitive health and safety issues.
Through the rehabilitation of existing housing stock, more homeowners, as well as tenants residing in rental units, can live in
decent housing. The City has expanded the program to investor-owners with low- to moderate-income tenants, to address
code compliance and health and safety issues and to maintain affordable, quality rental properties and to discourage the
conversion of affordable rental units into market rate condominiums.
In June, 2007, the North Shore HOME Consortium voted to adopt the federal Energy Star Standards. The implementation of
this new policy for the use of HOME funds began in October, 2007. All new HOME-assisted units are required to be certified
as Energy Star compliant whenever either new construction is involved or where the rehabilitation of an existing structure
involves the gutting of the structure to the bare walls. Homeowners are also referred to NSCAP’s weatherization program,
where they can get energy-efficiency work undertaken, and then utilize Salem’s loan program, thereby reducing the
homeowner’s loan burden.
In addition, the City offers deleading assistance for homeowners with a lead poisoned child through MassHousing’s Get the
Lead Out Program. This program can be combined with the City’s Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program. As a Local
Rehabilitation Agency (LRA) for the Get the Lead Out Program, Salem is responsible for intake of application information,
technical assistance, working with the applicant through the construction process and acting as the escrow agent for the loan
funds.
36
2 Goal Name Affordable Housing
Goal
Description
Salem consistently provides support toward the creation of new affordable housing units through the conversion of old,
abandoned or underutilized buildings and parcels into new residential housing units. Funds for affordable housing are often
set aside to provide resources for the City or a nonprofit partner, such as the North Shore CDC or the Boston Roman Catholic
Archdiocese’s Planning Office for Urban Affairs (POUA), to take advantage of opportunities that arise to acquire available
abandoned, derelict properties and turn them back into decent, affordable homes. Salem will continue to work with
nonprofit partners, as well as to negotiate on a case-by-case basis with private developers, to facilitate the creation of new
affordable housing units.
3 Goal Name First Time Homebuyer Program
Goal
Description
The City continues its goal to provide families with the opportunity to own their first home through the First-Time
Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program (FTHB). In addition to basic downpayment assistance, the program
offers a $1,000 increase over the maximum loan amount for homeowners who complete First-Time Homebuyer Counseling
through a qualified training program.
In addition to administering the First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program, DPCD staff provides
assistance to coordinate other resources for down payment assistance, such as Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP)
SoftSecond Loan Program and a variety of homeownership programs offered by MassHousing, as well as supporting first time
homebuyer education workshops provided by various organizations.
37
4 Goal Name Small Business Financial Assistance Programs
Goal
Description
Businesses often need additional assistance and more creative financing options than may be offered by banks. Even the very
best innovative new business idea often has difficulty filling the “gap” between what they can invest and what banks will
loan, versus the cost of the project. Without capital, new equipment or storefront improvements, some of the best small
businesses can fail. The Salem Business Loan Program offers expanded financing opportunities for local entrepreneurs, while
creating jobs and revitalizing the city. The program provides these types of loans:
Microenterprise Assistance - provides loans to low- to moderate-income entrepreneurs to assist with their
microenterprise business (5 or fewer full-time employees, including the owner)
Commercial Revitalization - provides loans to business owners in the downtown and eligible neighborhood districts
to assist with the exterior rehabilitation of their business and/or to correct code violations
Special Economic Development - provides loans to business owners throughout the city in exchange for job creation
and/or job retention for low- and moderate-income people.
Low-interest loans for commercial, industrial or mixed-use projects help create and retain jobs while improving the
appearance of neighborhoods and promoting economic growth. The DPCD will continue to work with business owners to
help finance a small project or to assist with gap financing of larger projects.
The Storefront Improvement Program helps to improve the physical appearance of districts by advocating for appropriate
design and historic preservation. By offering small business loans and grants toward new signage and façade improvements,
the City is helping to enhance our historic neighborhood business districts with financial incentives to Salem business and
property owners. Furthermore, the City has developed the City of Salem Commercial Design Guidelines to help business and
property owners with appropriate design. Copies are free at the DPCD office or on the City’s website.
38
5 Goal Name Business Technical Assistance
Goal
Description
Often small business owners need some degree of technical assistance to help them with managing or growing their
business. The needs of local entrepreneurs range from business planning, drawing up financial statements, or navigating the
city permitting process.
The City’s Economic Development Planner assists with new business location or existing business relocation, walks new
businesses through permitting processes, coordinates available loan programs, coordinates the development of tax
increment financing agreements, coordinates the development of neighborhood and economic development plans, manages
the Salem Main Streets contract and liaises between businesses and the Salem Redevelopment Authority, as well as with
state economic development agencies to provide businesses with access to tax credits and other incentives. The City works in
collaboration with several agencies to improve economic opportunity in Salem by providing technical assistance to
businesses. The Salem Main Streets Initiative, Salem Partnership, Salem Chamber of Commerce, Destination Salem, SBA
Small Business Development Center and Salem State University Assistance Corporation’s Enterprise Center each work in
cooperation with the City to support local business, with some of the programs targeted toward low-income, minority and
female entrepreneurs. The City offers a “Doing Business in Salem Guide” that is available on the City’s website.
6 Goal Name Community Support Services
Goal
Description
Along with housing services to help provide decent, affordable housing and economic development activities to help provide
good jobs at good wages, individuals and families may have additional needs that are specific to their household. The Five
Year Consolidated Plan identified the need for various social service programs to primarily benefit Salem’s low- to moderate-
income population and those with special needs (i.e. physically or mentally disabled, elderly or frail elderly, youth, non-
English speaking residents, persons living with HIV/AIDS, substance abusers and homeless persons and families). Each year,
Salem sets aside funds for social service programs to address these special needs.
Through a Request for Proposals process, the city makes awards to nonprofit service organizations that offer such services.
Public services eligible for funding include, but are not limited to, employment, crime prevention, child care, health,
substance abuse, education, fair housing counseling, energy conservation, recreation programs, food programs and services
for senior citizens. Target populations include, but are not limited to, persons with HIV/AIDS, abused children, battered
spouses, elderly and frail elderly, minorities, non-English speaking residents, residents of public assisted housing, persons
who are mentally ill or mentally retarded, substance abusers, youth and persons with disabilities. Funding proposals received
are available for viewing at the DPCD.
39
7 Goal Name Neighborhood Improvements Activities
Goal
Description
Residents depend on neighborhood infrastructure and public facility improvements to make the city the livable community
that it is. By continually investing in neighborhoods, Salem strives to be the best place it can be for people to live and work. In
FY17, the City will continue the investment in eligible neighborhoods through public infrastructure and traffic improvements
(i.e. street paving, new sidewalks, curbcuts/crosswalks, traffic/pedestrian improvements and the removal of architectural
barriers), public art and through neighborhood improvement initiatives (e.g., parks/playgrounds, lighting, trash receptacles,
tree planting, signage and bike paths).
In addition, the City continues to assess and clean-up known contaminated sites and is currently working with state and
federal agencies on several parcels.
The City will continue to invest in efforts that strengthen its public facilities. City Hall has seen major improvements over the
last few years, including the construction of a new elevator and related handicap accessibility improvements. In FY14, an
addition was completed to the Teen Resource Center in the Point Neighborhood. Salem will also continue to work on its goal
to have a new senior center.
8 Goal Name Downtown Improvements
Goal
Description
Healthy vibrant downtown and neighborhood commercial districts are essential to Salem’s overall economic health. Salem
will continue to work toward the implementation of the Salem Downtown Renewal Plan, including historic preservation,
public art and other improvements that help discourage neglect and disinvestment and eliminate slums/blight.
Table 7 – Goal Descriptions
40
AP-35 Projects - 91.420, 91.220(d)
Introduction
Salem will carry out the following programs to address the goals identified in the 5-Year Consolidated
Plan:
Housing Rehabilitation Program - Offer financial and technical assistance to eligible
homeowners and investor-owners to improve housing units, including improvements for
accessibility.
Affordable Housing - Support for local non-profit housing organizations and CHDOs seeking to
acquire, create, preserve, and/or renovate affordable units.
First Time Homebuyer Program - Financial assistance to eligible households in the form of loans
for downpayments and closing costs.
Small Business Financial Assistance Programs - Business Loan Program and Storefront
Improvement Program for new, emerging or expanding small businesses that create or retain
jobs for low- and moderate-income workers or eliminate or prevent blight, address building
code violations and/or improve access, and/or leverage private investment.
Business Technical Assistance - Technical assistance, training, design guidance, location service
and referrals for owners of microenterprises or businesses that create or retain jobs for low- and
moderate-income workers. Program delivery for the business loan program, oversight of the
Salem Redevelopment Authority and funding for the Salem Main Streets Program and the
micro-enterprise programs offered by Salem State University’s Enterprise Center.
Neighborhood Improvement Activities - Public facility and infrastructure improvements that
enhance the quality of life in eligible neighborhoods, such as, parks/playgrounds, tree planting,
lighting, signage, bike paths, streets, sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian safety, trash receptacles,
traffic calming, accessibility, public art, senior center, fire stations, schools, etc.
Community Support Services - Grants to nonprofit agencies for social services programs such as
homelessness and foreclosure prevention, housing education, food distribution, homeless
services, job training, senior transportation, childcare, crime prevention, immigrant services
(cultural orientation and acclimation), ESL and citizenship education, youth activities, senior
services, adult education (financial literacy, computer training, etc.) and substance abuse
prevention, and other programs that advance self-sufficiency, reduce household financial
burdens or improve the quality of life, as well as other special services (legal assistance, program
navigation guidance). Also to support programs that provide supplemental education and/or
engagement programs to increase public school students’ academic achievement.
Downtown Improvements - Public facilities and infrastructure improvements that are located in
Salem’s slum/blight area (downtown) and/or that benefit people with disabilities.
Planning & Administration - Planning and general administration necessary to provide the tools
needed to manage the CDBG program, as well as the development of plans and studies and the
provision of public information.
41
# Project Name
1 Housing Rehabilitation Programs
2 Affordable Housing
3 First Time Homebuyer Program
4 Small Business Financial Assistance Programs
5 Business Technical Assistance
6 Neighborhood Improvement Activities
7 Community Support Services
8 Planning & Administration
9 Downtown Improvements
Table 8 – Project Information
Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved
needs
During the development of the Five Year Consolidated Plan, Salem residents identified the community
development needs and goals for Fiscal Years 2016-2020. The priority needs identified during the
extensive public process included the need for affordable housing, economic development,
neighborhood improvement, and social services. The City has based its funding allocations on the
identified needs. The proposed activities and expected accomplishments are intended to address those
needs, with the goals and accomplishments calibrated to projected funding levels. At least 70% of the
FY17 CDBG funding will be used for activities that benefit low- and moderate-income persons.
Affordable Housing - Approximately 21.8% of CDBG funding (including estimated program
income) in FY17 will be allocated to affordable housing, along with 100% of Salem’s HOME
funding allocation through the North Shore Home Consortium. This funding will be used to
facilitate rehabilitation, acquisition and rental assistance for low- and moderate-income
households.
Economic Development – The City intends to allocate approximately 16.9% of its CDBG funding
for FY17 to efforts to revitalize commercial districts, improve exterior building facades, and
assist new and existing business owners (including microenterprises), through financial and
technical assistance.
Social Services - The City intends to allocate the maximum allowable amount of 15% to support
a broad range of social service programs that are consistent with the needs and goals identified
in the Five Year Consolidated Plan.
Public Facilities and Infrastructure Improvements - Approximately 26.3% of the City’s FY17
CDBG funding will be allocated towards public facilities and infrastructure improvements
projects in LMI neighborhoods and in the Downtown Urban Renewal District.
Program Administration - Not more than 20% will be allocated for the necessary general
administration costs for program oversight and coordination, including plans and studies.
The primary obstacle to addressing underserved needs in the categories listed above is the lack of
adequate funding. For FY17, the City will receive $42,615 more CDBG funds than FY16, but still 20% less
than six years ago. The HOME allocation is $101,172, which is $16,560 more than last year. This is still
approximately 52% less than six years ago.
42
AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information
1 Project Name Housing Rehabilitation Programs
Target Area
Goals Supported Housing Rehabilitation Programs
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Funding CDBG; $127,000
HOME: $46,172
Description Offer financial and technical assistance to eligible homeowners and investor-owners to improve housing
units, including improvements for accessibility, through the Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
It is estimated that a minimum of two families of low to moderate income will be assisted. this activity
will also use carried over funding from the prior year to complete additional units.
Location Description Addresses will be determined from applications for assistance to be submitted.
Planned Activities Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program
Inspectional Services
Rehabilitation Administration
2 Project Name Affordable Housing
Target Area
Goals Supported Affordable Housing
43
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Funding CDBG: $75,000
Community Preservation Act: $100,000
Description Support local non-profit housing organizations and CHDOs seeking to acquire, create, preserve, and/or
renovate affordable units.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
Currently there are several projects planned by North Shore CDC. In FY17, one project is expected to be
completed, which will result in 64 units of affordable housing in 8 buildings. 16 units will be for those at
or below 30% AMI and 47 units will be for those at or below 60% AMI. The City of Salem has previously
provided $50,000 in CDBG and $93,505 in CPA funds for this activity. Salem will be providing an additional
$50,000 in HOME funds.
The $75,000 set aside in FY17 CDBG funds has not been associated with a specific development project. A
goal indicator has been set at a minimum of 2.
Location Description The 64 units of affordable housing expected to be completed in Spring of 2017 by North Shore CDC is
planned for 105 Congress, 52-60 Dow, 107-109 Congress, 32 Perkins, 61 Congress, 71 Palmer, 6 Ward and
40 Ward Streets.
The location of the minimum of 2 units utilizing this year's funds has not been determined.
Planned Activities Affordable housing loan pool for pre-development, acquisition and/or rehabilitation of affordable housing
units, for households at or below 80% of AMI. As projects are designated, individual activities are set up
and the pool is reduced.
3 Project Name First Time Homebuyer Program
Target Area
Goals Supported First Time Homebuyer Program
Needs Addressed Homeownership Assistance
Funding CDBG: $40,000
44
Description Financial assistance to eligible households in the form of loans for downpayments and closing costs
through the First Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
A minimu of 5 low- to moderate-income households will be assisted with purchasing their first home.
Location Description
Planned Activities Loan Pool for downpayment assistance loan program. As individual activities are set up for first time
homebuyer loans, the loan pool is reduced.
4 Project Name Small Business Financial Assistance Programs
Target Area
Goals Supported Small Business Financial Assistance Programs
Needs Addressed Economic Development
Funding CDBG: $36,600
Description Provide a Business Loan Program and a Storefront Improvement Program for new, emerging or expanding
small businesses that create or retain jobs for low- and moderate-income workers, address building code
violations and/or handicapped access, and/or leverage private investment.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
It is estimated that two businesses will be assisted, creating a minimum of two jobs.
Location Description Point Neighborhoods, Downtown Salem (slum/blight area) or other eligible LMI commercial areas.
Planned Activities Small Business Loan Program
Storefront Improvement Program
45
5 Project Name Business Technical Assistance
Target Area
Goals Supported Business Technical Assistance
Needs Addressed Economic Development
Funding CDBG: $150,400
Description Offer technical assistance, training, design guidance, location service and referrals for owners of micro-
enterprises or businesses that create or retain jobs for low- and moderate-income workers. Provide
program delivery for the business loan program, technical support to the Salem Redevelopment Authority,
funding for the Salem Main Streets Program, as well as funding for the Salem State University Enterprise
Center's micro-enterprise programs in the Point Neighborhood.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
It is estimated that a minimum of five LMI jobs will be created, as well as a minimum of twenty-two micro-
enterprise businesses assisted.
Location Description Point Neighborhood, Downtown (slum/blight area) and other LMI commercial areas.
Planned Activities Salem Main Streets Program
Economic Development Program Delivery
Enterprise Center Micro-Enterprise Program
6 Project Name Neighborhood Improvement Activities
Target Area
Goals Supported Neighborhood Improvements Activities
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Public Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $241,594
46
Description Undertake public facility and infrastructure improvements that enhance the quality of life in eligible
neighborhoods, such as, parks/playgrounds, tree planting, lighting, signage, bike paths, streets, sidewalks,
crosswalks, pedestrian safety, trash receptacles, traffic calming, public art, accessibility, senior center, fire
stations, schools, etc.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
Projects will be undertaken in LMI neighbors. Per the 2010 U.S. Census, it is estimated that Salem has
18,395 or 46.2% residents that are LMI persons. LMI neighborhoods have 12,565 persons of which 8,265
or 65.8% are LMI persons.
Location Description All activities will be undertaken in eligible LMI neighborhoods.
Planned Activities Street Improvements
Tree Planting
Park Improvements
Point Neighborhood Improvements
Boston Street Neighborhood Improvements
Council on Aging Improvements
7 Project Name Community Support Services
Target Area
Goals Supported Community Support Services
Needs Addressed Public Services
Funding CDBG: $166,163
47
Description Provide grants to nonprofit agencies for social services programs such as homelessness and foreclosure
prevention, housing education, food distribution, homeless services, job training, senior transportation,
childcare, crime prevention, immigrant services (cultural orientation and acclimation), ESL and citizenship
education, youth activities, senior services, adult education (financial literacy, computer training, etc.) and
substance abuse prevention, and other programs that advance self-sufficiency, reduce household financial
burdens or improve the quality of life, as well as other special services (legal assistance, program
navigation guidance). Also to support programs that provide supplemental education and/or engagement
programs to increase public school students' academic achievement.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
Approximately 8,600 persons will be assisted through approximately 21 social service programs.
Location Description
Planned Activities Grants for approximately 21 social service programs.
8 Project Name Planning & Administration
Target Area
Goals Supported Housing Rehabilitation Programs
Affordable Housing
First Time Homebuyer Program
Small Business Financial Assistance Programs
Business Technical Assistance
Community Support Services
Neighborhood Improvements Activities
Downtown Improvements
48
Needs Addressed Affordable Housing
Homeownership Assistance
Economic Development
Public Services
Neighborhood Public Facilities and Infrastructure
Downtown Public Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $221,000
Description Cover costs associated with planning and general administration in order to provide the tools needed to
manage the CDBG program, as well as the development of plans and studies and the provision of public
information. This includes funds required to match grant funds being provided by Massachusetts
Historical Commission to undertake the Downtown Salem Cultural Resource Survey Update project.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
Location Description
Planned Activities General Program Administration
Planning Studies
9 Project Name Downtown Improvements
Target Area
Goals Supported Downtown Improvements
Needs Addressed Downtown Public Facilities and Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $50,000
49
Description Undertake infrastructure improvements to support Salem's slum/blight area (downtown) and complement
ongoing Economic Development activities. Projects may include street & sidewalk improvements,
pedestrian circulation, safety and aesthetics, accessibility improvements, tree planting, trash receptacles,
traffic improvements, lighting, signage and open space improvements, as well as improvements to public
facilities and public infrastructure. The City will also look at various locations in the downtown for
consideration of public art projects.
Target Date 6/30/2017
Estimate the number and type
of families that will benefit
from the proposed activities
Location Description Downtown (slum/blight area)
Planned Activities Slums/blight area improvements.
50
AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.420, 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low -income and
minority concentration) where assistance will be directed
A map of the 2010 Census block groups (see Appendix) is used to identify low- to moderate-income
areas. According to the 2010 Census, areas of lower income concentration are the Point Neighborhood;
the neighborhood area along Boston Street; the area bordered by Jackson and Wilson Streets and
Jefferson and Highland Avenues; South Salem between Lafayette, Washington and Canal Streets; a
neighborhood bordered by North, School, Balcomb, Cushing, and Highland Streets; and the
neighborhood bordered by Winter, Bridge, Arbella and Briggs Streets and encompassing Lee Fort
Terrace, Szetela Lane and Settlers Way in Salem Neck. There is overlap between the Downtown and the
Point Neighborhood, which also has the highest concentration of minority residents.
Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically
The City typically supports programs that benefit low- and moderate-income households or specific
population groups such as senior citizens, disabled persons and minorities. Although some programs
support the needs of these populations throughout the city, many activities are targeted to specific
neighborhoods with concentrations of low- and moderate-income households. When prioritizing
activities, the City pays special attention to those low- and moderate-income neighborhoods where the
greatest needs have been identified and whose public facilities and infrastructure are in the worst
condition. In addition, the City has also undertaken improvements in the Downtown Urban Renewal
Area, which is designated as a Slum and Blight District.
Discussion
In accordance with CDBG regulations, the City can undertake specific activities, such as street, sidewalk
and playground improvements in the low- and moderate-income neighborhoods or in neighborhoods
meeting the definition of “slums and blight.” However, recognizing that needs are not solely located in
distressed neighborhoods, the City also offers programs that may be accessed by people living outside
these areas. For example, the Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program, First-Time Homebuyer
Downpayment Assistance Loan Program, and the Small Business Loan Program are offered citywide to
allow any low- to moderate-income individual or household to take advantage of their availability.
51
AP-85 Other Actions - 91.420, 91.220(k)
Introduction
This section addresses other actions that the City of Salem will undertake including:
Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs;
Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing;
Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards;
Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families;
Actions planned to develop institutional structure; and
Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private hosuing and social service
agencies.
Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs
The Five Year Consolidated Plan outlines several barriers to housing affordability and reducing the
impacts of poverty in Salem: the cost of permitting and developing land with environmental constraints,
the lack of regulatory tools to require or encourage affordable housing in new developments, the lack of
resources to finance affordable housing development, an economy imbalanced by lower-wage jobs, and
local government’s dependence on the property tax to finance City services.
Like other communities, Salem is not in control of all of these barriers, and as a result, its ability to solve
them is constrained by financial resources and legal requirements. Nevertheless, Salem has identified
several strategies to overcome these obstacles in its goals to increase affordable housing, provide a
decent living environment, and increase economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income
residents.
The City will continue to support the creation of new affordable housing units, neighborhood
improvement projects, and anti-poverty strategies through partnership with non-profit entities,
supplementing state and federal subsidies with local funding, and case-by-case negotiation with
private developers.
The City will continue to utilize tools such as the Chapter 40B Comprehensive Permit program to
exempt developments which create affordable housing from local land use regulations.
In 2015, the City was awarded $30,000 from the MA Dept. of Housing and Economic
Development’s Planning Assistance Toward Housing (PATH) grant program to fund and facilitate
the process of developing a 40R Smart Growth Overlay District (SGOD) in the Point
Neighborhood. Adoption, which should occur by the end of calendar year 2016, would help
encourage commercial and housing diversity in mixed-use developments at high minimum
densities, by being allowed as-of-right rather than on a special permit basis. Under state law, a
40R SGOD district requires a minimum of 20% deed-restricted affordable housing units.
52
Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing
The following summarizes Salem’s strategy to address housing needs, which includes both new housing
production and preserving the existing housing stock for working families. Key components are:
Producing New Housing Units - Working with private and nonprofit developers, Salem supports
the creation of affordable housing units through the conversion of underutilized buildings and
parcels.
Preserving Existing Affordable Units - Salem has several private rental developments with
affordable units utilizing subsidies that will expire after a period of time. The city continues to
negotiate the extension of affordability for expiring subsidized units.
The City negotiates with developers on a case-by-case basis for 10% affordable units.
In 2012 the City passed the Community Preservation Act, which raises funds through a
surcharge on property tax bills. CPA requires a minimum spending (or reserve) of 10% of the
annual budget on community housing projects.
Improving Public Housing - The Salem Housing Authority (SHA) currently has 1,140 Section 8
vouchers under lease in Salem. The SHA also owns and manages a portfolio of 715 units of
public housing for low income elderly, family, and handicapped residents scattered across the
city. Funding to preserve and maintain these properties is provided by DHCD and HUD. In
addition, Community Teamwork, Inc. in Lowell currently administers the following vouchers in
Salem: AHVP (2), MRVP (46), Project Based Vouchers (164) and Mobile Voucher (138).
Providing First-Time Homebuyers Assistance - The City provides families with the opportunity to
own their first home through the First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan
Program. The program also offers an additional $1,000 for homeowners who complete
Homebuyer Counseling. DPCD staff also provide assistance to coordinate other resources for
homebuyers, such as Massachusetts Housing Partnership SoftSecond Loan Program and a
variety of homeownership programs offered by MassHousing, as well as supporting first-time
homebuyer education workshops provided by various organizations.
Rehabilitation of Existing Housing - While older homes are integral to Salem’s history and
neighborhood fabric, they require a great deal of maintenance and may not meet current
building codes. In response, the City administers a Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program to
provide low-interest loans to owners of single and multi-family properties to address health and
safety issues. The program was expanded to investor-owners with low- to moderate-income
tenants to maintain affordable, quality rental properties and to discourage the conversion of
affordable rental units into condominiums. Homeowners are also referred to NSCAP’s
weatherization program for energy-efficiency work before utilizing Salem’s loan program,
thereby reducing the homeowner’s loan burden. In addition, the City offers deleading assistance
for homeowners with a lead poisoned child through MassHousing’s Get the Lead Out Program,
which can be combined with the City’s Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program.
Working Regionally to Increase the Supply of Housing - As the housing market is not confined to
city boundaries, ongoing multi-jurisdiction cooperation is needed to address the region’s lack of
affordable housing. No one city or town can, or should, bear the responsibility of providing all of
the region’s affordable units. Salem is committed to working with its partners in the North Shore
HOME Consortium and with the region’s mayors to encourage the development of housing
throughout the area in an effort to increase the supply of housing for all.
53
Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards
The Salem Board of Health disseminates information regarding the proper disclosure of lead hazards
upon selling or renting a housing unit and inspects rental units for lead paint hazards. In Salem, a
landlord is required to obtain a Certificate of Fitness inspection when an apartment becomes vacant.
Board of Health personnel conduct this inspection and enforce the State Sanitary Code for Housing.
When the information is sent to the landlord prior to this inspection, a letter describing the Federal law
is included, as is a copy of the Tenant Notification Form in English and Spanish. Also, the Board of Health
periodically sends notification of regulations regarding lead-based paint to area realtors. In addition,
Board of Health personnel are trained Lead Determinators.
Should the Board receive a call from a tenant who is concerned that there may be lead-based paint in
his/her apartment, potentially affecting their children under six years of age, the Board is able to send
out a Sanitarian to conduct a Lead Determination. If lead paint is detected, an order is sent to the
landlord requiring compliance with the State Lead Law. The Board ensures compliance with the order.
The Massachusetts Childhood Lead-Paint Poisoning Prevention Program is notified of the results of all
Lead Determinations.
In cooperation with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and other municipal departments, the City of
Salem, through its DPCD, works to decrease the number of housing units containing lead-based paint
hazards. The City actively works to reduce lead-paint hazards in pre-1978 housing occupied by lower-
income households through the City of Salem’s Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program. Through the
Salem Housing Rehabilitation Loan and Get the Lead Out Programs, the City provides loan funds for
qualified applicants for lead testing, hazard reduction and abatement activities, and temporary
relocation reimbursements. Lead-based paint hazard control measures are consistent with the federal
Title X requirements and State lead based paint regulations. MassHousing’s Get the Lead Out Program is
also available to homeowners with a lead poisoned child.
Finally, all participants in the First-Time Homebuyer Downpayment Assistance Loan Program are given a
copy of the EPA brochure “Protecting Your Family from Lead in Your Home.”
Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families
Salem uses CDBG and other funds to pursue an anti-poverty strategy carried out by the City and a
variety of social service subrecipients. The strategy consists of four components: education, job training,
affordable housing and social services.
Education
An adequate school system is crucial to reducing poverty in future generations. The City has used state
funding to renovate and improve its educational facilities and provide school-age children with an
environment conducive to learning. The Salem Public Schools support bilingual classroom settings and
technology-based training that will enable those with lower incomes to improve their job opportunities.
The school choice program gives residents more choices about the school they want their children to
attend, and offers education focused specific skills, such as science and technology and communication
and community service. Salem’s Parent Information Center coordinates the school choice program
54
designed to improve racial balance within the school systems, and provides information about adult
education programs designed to help low-income families.
The City will continue to support various educational programs for youth, adults, and the Spanish-
speaking population with CDBG funds, including Salem Public Schools, and programs administered by
non-profit agencies such as 1647 Nation Center on Time & Learning, Cerebral Palsy Associatino of
Eastern Mass., Inc., LEAP for Education, the Boys and Girls Club, North Shore Community Development
Coalition, and VOCES.
Job Training and Employment Resources
Salem collaborates with numerous job training, and workforce development programs in the region
such as The North Shore Career Center and the North Shore Workforce Investment Board.
The City will continue to use CDBG funds to support job training and employment assistance programs
such as the Wellspring House MediClerk Program.
Affordable Housing
Providing adequate, affordable housing for low- and moderate-income residents is critical to the success
of an anti-poverty strategy. City agencies such as the Salem Housing Authority and the DPCD are
committed to providing safe, appropriate, and affordable housing opportunities to very-low, and low-
and moderate-income family, elderly, and disabled households. In addition, many housing providers and
social service agencies work in concert to combat poverty in Salem. The City’s established partnerships
with agencies such as the NSCAP, the North Shore HOME Consortium and the North Shore Community
Development Coalition increase its success at bringing services to lower income residents and
encouraging them to participate in revitalizing their community.
Social Services
Through a competitive funding round, the City of Salem uses CDBG funds to support 20-25 non-profit
social service programs annually. These organizations provide services to help families meet the costs of
living, promote family self-sufficiency, serve special populations and/or provide crisis intervention
assistance – programs seeking to break the cycle of poverty. CDBG funds support several programs
which indirectly assist with housing in many ways such as increased pay (i.e. job training, ESL programs)
and decreased monthly expenditures (i.e. child care, food programs) so households can better afford
rent or mortgages. There are also many non-CDBG funded programs available to Salem residents to help
households overcome various obstacles to self-sufficiency.
Actions planned to develop institutional structure
The Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) administers the City of Salem
Community Development Program as well as the formula funding received by the North Shore HOME
Consortium for which the City of Peabody is the lead agency. Under the direction of the Director of
Planning and Community Development, the Assistant Community Development Director manages and
monitors Salem’s community development programs.
55
Salem’s housing programs are administered by the DPCD Housing Coordinator under the direction of the
Director of Planning and Community Development. In addition, local non-profit agencies, CHDOs and
CDCs administer certain housing activities. Many housing activities leverage funds through private
lender financing.
City departments undertake certain CDBG-funded activities, such as the tree planting program, sidewalk
replacement, street paving and curbcut installation. These departments may subcontract work under
public bidding procedures and provide requests for reimbursement and any required documentation
(i.e., prevailing wage documentation) to the DPCD.
Each year the City of Salem issues a Request for Proposals to nonprofit organizations that offer social
service, housing or economic development programs. CDBG funds are awarded to organizations that
demonstrate programmatic needs and the capacity to administer the proposed program. The City’s
Assistant Community Development Director coordinates the management of the public service and
housing subcontracts and the Economic Development Planner coordinates the management of the
economic development subcontracts.
In general, DPCD staff carries out the remaining activities, including the hiring of consultants or other
private businesses through established municipal purchasing procedures.
The City’s auditing firm audits Salem’s CDBG program delivery system annually. In addition, HUD staff
conducts periodic reviews and grant monitorings. The City promptly implements recommendations
arising as a result of these reviews. The DPCD continuously works to improve upon its methods and
procedures for the administration of its programs.
Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social
service agencies
DPCD will continue to administer Salem H.O.P.E. (Human Organization Partnership Effort), a networking
group of human service agencies that serve Salem residents, offering a forum for agencies to learn
about the services being provided by other agencies in order to fill in gaps, coordinate efforts and avoid
the duplication of services. All human service agency representatives are invited to attend the quarterly
Steering Committee breakfast meetings held at rotating agency locations. Through this program, agency
representatives are introduced to each other and exchange information, announcements and updates.
56
Program Specific Requirements
AP-90 Program Specific Requirements - 91.420, 91.220(l)(1,2,4)
Introduction
Over the past five years, Salem met all timeliness requirements, and program expenditures were
consistent with its 5-Year Consolidated Plan and annual Action Plan goals. Funds drawn down are always
used within the year they are received; no program income is carried over.
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 0
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: 0
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. 70.00%
Discussion
This AP covers July 1, 2016-June 30, 2017 (Salem's FY17, using HUD 2016 funds). We estimate receiving
$112,500 in program income during this program year. All program income received in FY16 will be
reported and spent under FY16. We do not have any lump sum drawdown agreements, nor
reimbursements other than program income, made to the local account, expected to be available during
FY17.
Salem intends to spend at least 70% of CDBG funds to benefit persons of low and moderate income in
FY17. The City of Salem primarily funds activities that serve low- to moderate-income households
(limited clienteles) or activities within majority low- to moderate-income neighborhoods, typically
reaching a percentage of 89% or higher (99.53% in FY15).
Appendix
1 - Map
2 - Application for Federal Funding and Certifications
3 - Other Resources
4 – Citizen Participation Comments
Public Participation Process
Review of Draft Plan
Appendix 1 – LMI Map
Appendix 2 - Application for Federal Funding & Certifications
Appendix 3 – Other Resources
This section describes the anticipated resources that assist Salem residents in addition to CDBG and
HOME funds. These include leveraged funding for Salem’s CDBG and HOME activities, financial resources
for Salem’s community partners and other services and resources available to Salem residents.
Financial/Leveraged Resources
Many activities leverage funding from other sources to maximize the impact of the federal dollars the
City receives. In addition to the City, several housing and community development programs are carried
out by non-city agencies that operate through a variety of resources. The tables below include
anticipated funding resources for the City of Salem Department of Planning & Community Development,
as well as several key organizations, including the Salem Housing Authority, North Shore Community
Action Programs, Inc., Lifebridge and North Shore Community Development Coalition. While it is not
possible to anticipate every source of funding, the table below indicates some of the sources of funds
that CDBG and HOME will likely leverage during FY17. The dollar amounts are best estimates and do not
indicate a minimum or maximum amount that will be leveraged.
City of Salem FY17 funding resources/anticipated leveraged funds (includes full amounts applying for,
applied for, awarded or awarded and partially spent) for all programs and project to be undertaken by
the DPCD - not just those leveraged with CDBG funds):
Source Amount
Federal Sources
CDBG $995,257
HOME $101,172
Program Income $112,500
Subtotal Federal $1,208,9295
Federal Sources (Non-CDBG or HOME):
Environmental Protection Agency - Revolving Loan Fund (awarded with
Peabody, MA - for use over 5 years 1-/2014-9/2019)
$950,000
Essex National Heritage Commission Partnership Grant $2,000
Subtotal Federal $952,000
State Sources:
MassDevelopment – Transformative Development Initiative Placemaking Grant $6,000
MA Office of Coastal Zone Management Coastal Resilience Grant Program (applied) $140,000
DHCD Planning Assistance Toward Housing Program (awarded) $30,000
DOER Decommissioned Coal Plant Community Grant (awarded) $2,000,000
EOHED - MassWorks Infrastructure Program 2014 (awarded for
Washington/Dodge project)
$3,360,000
Seaport Advisory Council (awarded) $4,050,000
MA Dept. of Energy Resources Green Communities (awarded) $239,000
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs – Parkland Acquisitions and
Renovations for Communities (awarded for MaryJane Lee Park)
$400,000
Massachusetts Historical Commission – Survey & Planning Grant (awarded for
Downtown Salem Survey)
$15,000
MA Recreational Trails Program – Forest River Conservation Area (applied) $50,000
Subtotal State $10,290,000
Local/City Sources:
Capital Improvement Program (Salem Common Fence, Phase III) $50,000
Community Preservation Act (total applications recommended for funding) $812,790
Salem Redevelopment Authority (for former Salem Jail parking area) $80,000
General Fund (Conservation Commission, Historical Commission, Planning
Department, Planning Board, Market Place) – Based on FY16
$763,885
Subtotal Local/City $1,706,675
Private/Other Sources:
Homebuyer private matching funds (estimate) $97,250
Business leveraged funds (Main Streets estimate) $91,300
Subtotal Private/Other $188,550
TOTAL $14,346,154
Note: Other sources of funds that may be leveraged, but for which no dollar estimate can reasonably be determined, are
MA Get the Lead Out funds, private mortgages and private donations.
Salem Housing Authority funding sources/anticipated leveraged funds (for year ending September 30, 2015):
Source Amount
Federal Sources
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Housing
Assistance Payments
$13,594,207
HUD Capital Fund Program $41,729
HUD Federal Public Subsidy $147,243
Subtotal Federal $13,783,179
State Sources:
MA Dept. of Housing & Community Development 4001 $592.883
MA Dept. of Housing & Community Development MRVP $227,114
MA Dept. of Housing & Community Development Formula Funding $1,705,869
Subtotal State $2,525,886
Local/City Sources:
$0
Subtotal Local/City $0
Private/Other Sources:
$0
Subtotal Private/Other $0
TOTAL $16,309,045
North Shore Community Development Coalition FY2015 (1/1/15-12/31/15)
Actual funding sources/ leveraged funds:
Source Amount
Federal Sources
LIHTC – increase in Salem Point II amount from prior report $630,000
HOME Funds – new Harbor & Lafayette amt. + increase in Salem Pt. II amt. $100,000
CDBG 0
Federal Historic Credits – revision of Salem Pt. II amt. on prior report $1,811,000
DOL – YouthBuild $227,994
Subtotal Federal $2,768,994
State Sources
MA Dept. Elementary Secondary Education -YouthBuild $123,475
State Historic Credits 0
Brownfield Redevelopment Fund – Salem Pt. II final amt. $55,750
Subtotal State $179,225
Local/City Sources
CDBG Salem $9,000
CDBG Peabody $9,000
CPA Salem – Harbor & Lafayette Homes $100,000
Subtotal Private/Other $118,000
Private/Other Sources
Grants/Foundations $223,487
Events $95,000
Contributions $52,000
Community Investment Tax Credit $140,000
Boston Community Capital – acquisition of 38 Palmer St. $55,000
Housing Ministries of New England – Harbor & Lafayette Homes $50,000
Eastern Bank Tax Exempt Bonds – Salem Pt. II revision of prior amt. $2,100,000
Developer’s Fee – from Salem Pt. II LP $635,000
Subtotal Private/Other $3,350,487
TOTAL $6,416,706
North Shore CDC funding for real development estate development projects is listed on the next page.
NORTH SHORE CDC: REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT SOURCE SUMMARY 2009-2018
Harbor and Congress Street Peabody and
Project Name Palmer Cove Salem Point II Lafayette Homes Residences Leavitt
Affordable Housing Units 15 77 27 64 15
Year Completed 2009 2015 2016 est. 2017 est. 2018 est.
FEDERAL LIHTC 846,995 5,151,000 1,937,458 7,472,103
City/Consortium HOME 450,000 300,000 50,000
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 50,000
Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP)
Federal Historic Tax Credits (FHC) 1,811,000 3,331,332
Federal Subtotal 846,995 7,412,000 2,237,458 10,903,435
STATE Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) 1,211,922 1,000,000 1,000,000
CATNHP
Housing Stabilization Fund (HSF) 1,211,923 700,000 1,450,000
HPSTF
Facilities Consolidation Fund (FCF) 548,580
State HOME 550,000
Housing Innovations Fund (HIF) 573,081 230,402 500,000 1,000,000
Danvers State Preservation Fund 182,000
State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (STC) 1,182,600 2,699,520
State Historic Tax Credits (SHC) 1,221,750 1,254,000
Green Aff Hsg Dev Program
MassHousing Design Grant
Brownfields Redevelopment Fund 55,750
LEAN Multi-family Program 25,995 360,824
State Subtotal 3,727,506 1,507,902 3,408,595 8,314,344
LOCAL Community Preservation Act (CPA) 0 100,000 93,505
City of Salem Loans 0 105,898
Local Subtotal 0 105,898 100,000 93,505
PRIVATE Debt 650,000
Tax Exempt Bonds 2,100,000 550,000 5,655,150
Federal Home Loan Bank-Boston 400,000
Enterprise Foundation Grant
Energy Rebates & Utility Grants 25,419
Other LP Contributions
Other GP Contributions/Developer Equity
Deferred Developer Fee 244,529 50,000
Accrued Interest 207,366
Other-Seller Note 6,415,901 318,784 519,369
Other-Rollover of Reserves
Other-Commercial Condominium Sale
Private Subtotal 894,529 9,148,686 868,784 6,224,519
TOTAL DEVELOPMENT COST 5,469,030 18,174,486 6,614,837 25,535,803 18,100,000
TDC/Unit 364,602 236,032 244,994 398,997
HARD CONSTRUCTION COST 7,085,799 2,933,723 14,245,436
Hard Cost/Unit 92,023 108,656 222,585
North Shore Community Action Programs, Inc. FY17 funding resources/projected revenues:
Source Amount
Federal Sources
Emergency Food and Shelter Program 12,800
Subtotal Federal - Direct 12,800
Federal Indirect
LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance) 2,215,235
Community Services Block Grant 330,570
HEARTWAP 170,160
HOME (City of Salem) 40,000
HOME (North Shore HOME Consortium) 35,000
Community Development Block Grant (City of Salem) 9,800
Community Development Block Grant (City of Peabody) 10,000
DOE – Action, Inc. 151,481
IRS Volunteers Income Tax Assistance (MASSCAP) 3371
Title III Older Americans Act (NESE) 6,000
Title III Older Americans Act (LGSS) 2,500
HOPWA (Lynn Housing Authority & Neighborhood Development) 50,000
Subtotal Federal – Indirect 3,024,117
State Sources
Department of Housing & Community Development 3,480,724
Department of Elementary & Secondary Education 241,718
Subtotal State 3,722,442
Local/City Sources
Peabody Municipal Light Plant 5,000
Danvers Electric 7,000
Trust Fund (Salem) 30,000
Subtotal Local/City 42,000
Private/Other Sources
Donations 23,200
Private Contracts & Grants 21,667
Tuition & Fees 1,338,000
Subtotal Private/Other 1,382,867
TOTAL 8,184,226
Lifebridge FY16 funding sources/anticipated leveraged funds:
Source Amount
Federal Sources
HUD - McKinney Funds $98,000
Subtotal Federal $98,000
State Sources:
DHCD $399,000
Subtotal State $399,000
Local/City Sources:
CDBG $9,800
Subtotal Local/City $9,800
Private/Other Sources:
Donations $300,000
Private Contracts & Grants $75,000
Commercial Income $450,000
Private Client Fees 0
Subtotal Private/Other $825,000
TOTAL $1,331,800
Services
In addition to financial assistance provided to Salem residents through the City and its community
partners, there are numero us programs and services available to Salem residents. Some are funded
through CDBG. Some non-CDBG funded resources not previously mentioned in this plan include, but
are not limited to:
Greater Lynn Senior Services - THE RIDE
THE RIDE paratransit service provides door-to door, shared-ride transportation to eligible people
who cannot use fixed-route transit (bus, subway, trolley) all or some of the time because of a
physical, cognitive or mental disability. THE RIDE is operated by the Massachusetts Bay
Transportation Authority (MBTA) in compliance with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA). THE RIDE in North area of Massachusetts is provided through Greater Lynn Senior Services
(GLSS). GLSS provided 39,111 total trips for Salem residents in FY14, of which 28,256 being THE
RIDE.
Independent Living Center of the North Shore and Cape Ann, Inc.
The ILCNSCA is the North Shore and Cape Ann service and advocacy agency for all persons of all
ages who live with all types of disabilities within City of Salem and 24 other municipalities on the
North Shore and Cape Ann. . The agency is located at Shetland Properties in the Point
Neighborhood and is available to assist with completion of SSI/SSDI, food stamps and various
housing applications. ILCNSCA advertises monthly times that are set aside where staff are
available in a group setting to offer guidance on completing the Universal Housing application for
subsidized housing across Massachusetts. They assist approximately 30 people annually with
completing the UHA, Section 8 centralized waiting list or regional Section 8 waiting list. They also
provide a variety of workshops to the community at large on how to find affordable, accessible,
and available housing with a focus on Salem housing opportunities, as well as housing rights
workshop which assists those to know about reasonable accommodation requests, what to
disclose about one’s disability when applying and searching for housing, etc.
North Shore Community Development Coalition
The North Shore CDC invests in neighborhoods to create thriving communities, striving to provide
quality affordable housing and foster economic empowerment and community development on
the North Shore. Located in the Point Neighborhood, its residents make up the majority of their
clients. North Shore CDC continues to advance quality programming that offers residents in the
region basic life skills to aid in achieving economic stability and a self -sufficient life. Programming
includes YouthBuild North Shore, Homeownership Training and Counseling, Community English
Program and Family Stability Program. Along with its programming, North Shore CDC provides
bilingual assistance to complete various applications. Annual numbers for FY15 include:
• VITA - 89
• Housing applications - 50
• Job applications - 23
• Other – 45
o Workshops – 21
o ESL - 108
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities North began more than 95 years ago with initial sites in Salem and Lynn. The
programs at Catholic Charities North strive to prevent hunger and homelessness for local families in
a financial emergency; engage youth in education and employment programs focused on long term
solutions to poverty; and support families in their effort to build safe, nurturing environments for
children. The Salem office, in the Point Neighborhood, offers basic needs, family support, ESL/ELL
classes and counselling services. Just over 50% of Catholic Charities Salem Basic Needs clients
reside in the Point Neighborhood. Budgeting and financial education are offered to all Basic Needs
clients. The agency will also assist with providing information and assistance with applications
upon request.
HAWC
HAWC provides free, confidential services and support to victims of domestic abuse residing in 23
cities and towns on Massachusetts’ North Shore. HAWC services include a 24-hour hotline, support
groups, individual advocacy, legal advocacy, and hospital advocacy, children’s services, a shelter
program, community education, and a Parent-Child Trauma Recovery Program. Advocates meet
with individuals one- on- one to support them with identifying their needs and accessing resources.
They also provide financial literacy specifically to clients living in their shelter. The agency is located
at Shetland Properties in the Point Ne ighborhood.
Citizens for Adequate Housing
Citizens for Adequate Housing, Inc. breaks the patterns of instability that lead to homelessness for
every family served. They provide a temporary home for homeless families and permanent
affordable housing to low income families. Nearly one third of their residents are from Salem
and/or find housing in Salem upon exit from temporary family shelter. They pro vide one-on-one
financial literacy training (using DVDs), work with Salem Five on personalized credit repair for
residents and offer workshops on trauma, substance abuse, parenting and mental health.
North Shore Community Action Program Inc.
North Shore Community Action Programs, Inc. (NSCAP) provides social services that enable low-
income families and individuals to obtain the skills and knowledge they need to become
economically self-sufficient, civically engaged, and to live in dignity and decency. To achieve its
mission, they provide a range of programs and services in five key areas: Education and Training,
Economic Stabilization, Housing and Homelessness Prevention, Energy Services, and Home Care.
Under Energy Services, NSCAP provides Fuel Assistance to eligible households in Salem. For FY15-
16, as of 3/16/16, 746 Salem families are eligible for $419,050 in benefits, with two months remaining
in the program.
NSCAP also provides tax preparation services for low income households whose gross income may
qualify them for the Earned Income Tax Credit. The program is free and runs from January through
April at three sites. In 2015, the Peabody site served 69 Salem residents, the Beverly site served 52
Salem residents and the Salem site (held at North Shore CDC in the Point neighborhood) served
111 Salem residents; totaling 232.
NSCAP will also assist clients that have case management (i.e. rep payee’s, shelter clients, HOPWA
clients, ABE clients, etc.) with preparation of applications for MassHealth, food stamps/SNAP, Fuel
Assistance, Social Security paperwork, etc.
Other agencies/collaborations
At Salem High School, students have the option to choose an elective course that allows them to
build their knowledge of money and how investing works.
New Liberty Charter School provides academic skill, employability and personal stability programs
for homeless and at-risk students, and partners with North Shore CDC to provide a YouthBuild
program..
The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem periodically provides a financial literacy program to its
teens through local banks, most recently Salem Five.
Salem State University offers many programs that are open to residents, teachers and Salem High
School students. Along with non-credit classes and programs, the community can enjoy an
award-winning theatrical performance, take advantage of the print and electronic resources
of the library, or bring the family to an exciting athletic event. There are athletic camps and
clinics, a Center for the Arts, the Explorers Institute for Learning & Retirement, along with
part-time degree programs.
Salem is fortunate to also host many State offices, several of which are located in or near the Point
neighborhood. Agency offices in Salem include, but are not limited to, the Salem Juvenile
Court, Probate and Family Court, Transitional Assistance Department, Division of
Unemployment Assistance, North Shore Career Center and MA Rehabilitation Commission.
Links to social service agency websites are located at
http://www.salem.com/planning-and-community-development/pages/dpcd-links.
The Independent Living Center also provides an on-line “yellow pages” of resources. It is located at
http://www.ilcnsca.org/yellowpages.php
Appendix 4 – Citizen Participation Comments
Part 1 – Public Participation Process
Public Hearing, 6:00 PM, January 21, 2016
Staff Present: Lynn Duncan, Director
Jane Guy, Assistant Community Development Director
Naomi Francisco, Housing Coordinator & Spanish translator
Attendees: 7, including 3 city staff
Lynn Duncan, Director of Planning and Community Development, opened the meeting stating that she
was at this meeting to listen to the comments from the audience on this first of two public hearings
regarding the fiscal year 2017 Community Development Block Grant. Ms. Duncan introduced Jane Guy,
Assistant Community Development Director and Naomi Francisco, Housing Coordinator.
Ms. Guy stated that the purpose of the meeting was to obtain citizen views on housing, community, and
economic development needs and priorities in order to prepare the action plan for the period of July 1,
2016 through June 30, 2017. She stated that for CDBG, she is estimating level funding from HUD at
$952,642, which is approximately 23.5% less from what was received six (6) years ago. She stated that
for HOME funding, last year’s allocation was $84,612, which was the lowest allocation ever and
approximately sixty (60) percent less than six (6) years ago. These amounts will be estimated for budget
purposes until HUD provides what the actual allocations are going to be. Ms. Guy explained that the
Action Plan is a one year document, done each year of the five years of the 5 -Year Consolidated Plan
period. She stated that, last year, the city had a lot of public meetings, public outreach and data
collection to create the new 5-Year Consolidated Plan, which can be viewed online and at this meeting.
This came up with needs and priorities, but it doesn’t mean that priorities don’t change. Ms. Guy asked
the audience if there are ongoing needs, if certain needs have expanded or decreased, or if there are
new needs. She asked for thoughts on priorities or even ideas to meet the needs. Ms. Guy explained
that CDBG and HOME funds must assist low, very low- to- moderate income households and
neighborhoods. Ms. Guy reviewed a map noting the low to moderate income areas that have been
determined by census block groups as well as the boundaries of the slums-blight/ Urban Renewal area
where certain projects can be done. She noted that some projects are done city wide, such as First Time
Homebuyer and Housing Rehabilitation programs which are done by looking at people’s household
income and determining if they are eligible. Other projects, such as street paving, sidewalks, crosswalks,
tree planting, and handicap access projects, can automatically be done in low to moderate income
neighborhoods. A few past projects that have been done are improvements to fire houses, park and
playground improvements and street resurfacing. She stated that other activities that can be funded
include studies, such as those needed to preserve a historic building, or grants to social service agencies
for various programs such as those to prevent eviction, food pantries, youth activities, senior
transportation, child care, neighborhood bike patrols, job training and many others. Projects can be
those that the city undertakes or can be projects undertaken by agencies, such as those represented
here. Ms. Guy stated that as part of the process the city issues request for proposals for social service
agencies, non-profits for economic development, housing and public service programs to seek funding
for their programs; those were mailed out this day and proposals are due February 29, 2016. She stated
that the process kicks off tonight with this public meeting, the funding requests will be received and the
action plan will be drafted and made available sometime in March for a thirty (30) day comment period.
There will be another public meeting and the City Council will be asked to approve the submittal of the
application for the funding. The plan goes to HUD by May 15, 2016. Ms. Guy asked the audience to
provide questions and/or comments.
Ms. Duncan asked the members of the audience to introduce themselves and provide the name of the
social service agency they are representing when they comment.
Jill Bowen from Catholic Charities stated that their main office is located in Lynn, but their satellite office
is in Salem on Washington Street. She stated she hasn’t seen a lot of changes and wishes she had
something new to tell. She stated that the most helpful is having the funds to help people avoid eviction.
She stated that it’s a chronic problem, and people are always going to have situations where they can’t
keep up with their rents, that it can snowball and if they can’t get some help, they’re out. She hasn’t
seen a lot of difference in the people that are asking for the money noting they are mostly families and
single parents - women mostly.
Deric Lepard, from North Shore Community Action Programs, stated that his agency distributes the
funds in the same way as Catholic Charities. He noted that it was interesting to look at the needs
assessment they had done for their last strategic plan and that housing was number one. He stated that
approximately 850 surveys were returned and housing was the most need given by the community;
second was heating/utility and the third was emergency assistance which falls in connection with
housing. Mr. Lepard stated that the costs of keeping someone in their home versus having them go in a
shelter is a huge difference. It is more economical putting the funds towards keeping people in their
homes and not having to resettle them along with all the things that go with that process. He stated that
he sees it on a first hand basis what a difference it can make. Mr. Lepard stated that he hasn’t seen any
dramatic changes, but they have been running more out of rent money this year then they have in the
past from multiple funding pots.
Ms. Guy asked if it was costing more per household or if there are more households that need rental
assistance.
Ms. Lepard replied that there are more households.
Ms. Guy asked if it was short-term or long-term.
Mr. Lepard replied it was short-term. He added that the agency conducts both types of programs
including one through the advocacy department, on through the shelter program and one through the
housing for opportunities for people with AIDS program. The short-term program is there to solve the
problem for those individuals that are able to maintain their current housing.
Ms. Bowen stated that she has also seen a difference. She is not sure if many more people are calling,
but noted that the rental prices are higher. The cost of apartments has changed and that while $200-
$300 previously helped, it doesn’t do much now.
Lisa Orgettas, Director of Community Services at North shore Elder Services, stated she brought copies
of their Area Plan the agency conducts every couple of years, as well as the latest statistics from the
Tufts Health Plan foundation about Salem’s populations characteristics. She stated that when they do
their area plan they also do focus groups and try to tease out what’s going for folks in our communities.
She mirrored that it is absolutely housing. It is also transportation; having access to get them back and
forth to medical services or over to congregate meal sites. They see these as the main priority at this
time.
Ms. Duncan asked what types of transportation services are needed.
Ms. Orgettas replied that her agency is mainly focused on seniors 60 and older. She stated the pieces
they do are through Title IIIB and that they provide granting funding to the Salem Council on Aging for
transportation. She stated that it is been identified through their study as a definite pervasive need.
Mr. Lepard stated that they have been recipients of this fund, which has allowed them to focus on
seniors. It’s a small amount of money to help with housing or utilities depending on the town and in
Salem he believed it was designated for rent. Mr. Lepard stated that when they get a senior who calls
and states that they are going to be homeless they can partner with other agencies; every little bit helps.
Ms. Guy asked that if a situation like this arises and the City gets this type of call, is there a person to call
directly.
Ms. Orgettas stated that the call could be referred to North Shore Elder Services and which will get them
to an intake or referral specialist and that it might be a gateway into a scope program or other types of
assistance to get case management, home delivery meals, nursing case management, etc. She stated
that there are definitely a lot of resources for people. Ms. Orgettas further commented that Salem’s
population is pretty old as far as percentage based on “other”. When looking at Salem, the older
population is higher than the State average. Salem is at 20% versus the State average of 15.8% for
persons 65 or older. Ms. Orgettas stated that the percentage of unmarried older persons is higher than
the State, 61.4 versus 49.1 which takes a layer of support away. The percentage of persons living alone
for Salem is 37.6 versus 30.3.
Ms. Guy asked if this was taking into consideration the college students.
Ms. Orgettas stated that she was not sure if they were considered residents and that would skew the
numbers higher.
Ms. Guy stated some may be considered residents depending on when the study was conducted, and
some students may be off campus housing.
Ms. Orgettas stated that the number of Salem’s population of older persons who speak only English at
home is lower than the States’ - 77 versus 83. Salem was ranked worse on three (3) indicators in the
State of asthma, atrial fibrillation and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Ms. Orgettas stated that the data
showed that a lot of the Salem population is older, living alone and do not have much of a support
system.
Mary Margaret Moore, Executive Director from the Independent Living Center of the North Shore and
Cape Ann stated that Salem has started the Aging in America group and a lot of this this being looked at.
Ms. Duncan asked if the Age Friendly Initiative has spoken to Ms. Moore about getting some of that
information.
Ms. Moore answered that she attended a meeting about five (5) months ago, but is not aware where
they are at now.
Ms. Duncan explained that the City of Salem had been invited to submit a full application to be
designated as an Age Friendly Community and it’s being worked on, further commenting that she
reviewed the Housing Needs Assessment component and there was a transportation component and
that pieces of the plan are being put together and she assumes will be submitted in the near future.
Ms. Moore stated Paul Lanzikos from North Shore Elder Services was at that first meeting as well.
Ms. Moore stated this is something to further think about as we think about CDBG.
Ms. Orgettas provided copies of the statistics and a copy of the area plan.
Ms. Moore stated that the Independent Living Center of the North Shore and Cape Ann is housed in
Salem and serves twenty-five (25) communities from Melrose to Rockport. She stated they are also
seeing what has been stated regarding housing. She noted that it is not just the housing piece for a lot
of people that are homeless. The agency is struggling to help someone who is living on a couch and
helping them locate moving expenses for their stuff that’s in storage and to get it to the place. It is
incidentals as well as the fundamentals and we haven’t had a chance to talk about that for CDBG money
lately because of the crisis with the fundamentals. Yes, we need more housing stock, yes, we need more
accessible health, yes, we need more help for heat and money to help pay first and last month’s rent.
She stated that we are doing better at putting some money in there for some people, but it even goes
beyond that and she wanted to lay out moving costs, requests for which we get a lot lately. She stated
that the other piece is the transportation issue and it’s getting harder for people to cope with the new
system for getting accessible rides through the MBTA which requires having go for an evaluation.
Therefore, there are more people they are hearing from that need transportation and don’t want to be
bothered with that new system. They are referred them to the Council on Aging, but there’s only so
much things those vans can do. Ms. Moore stated there aren’t any accessible taxis in Salem and she has
not seen that as a priority. She stated that Webb Transportation Corporation, whom she saw at the
North Shore Chamber breakfast within the last year or so, finally has one accessible vehicle.
Ms. Guy asked if they were located in Salem.
Ms. Moore stated it is located in Danvers is the only one in the North Shore for which she is aware. It is
not a van. She stated it is a shame we haven’t been able to get accessible taxi services in Salem. Ms.
Moore they are seeing more of people feeling bullied when they are in subsidized places; people feeling
they’re not being heard in some of our subsidized places in Salem, noting there is more than one side to
every perception.
Ms. Guy asked if this is persons with a voucher living in a rental unit or living in one of the Salem Housing
Authority properties.
Ms. Moore replied that it is both and explained that what she meant by being bullied, is people being
denied access to handicap parking or not having the right parking access, door entry issues where they
can’t get in/out because the buzzer is broken all the time; people feeling as they are not being heard
and are being ignored. Ms. Moore states she does not know how this fits into the plan because it’s
really a strategy. She stated that she feels that a lot is being done about educating of the person , which
is good, but sometimes we miss doing the educating of the community. For people that are seniors or
with functional disabilities, adults and/or families with children, she feels there is not a lot of educating
that they are people too. Ms. Moore wanted to raise this issue because of the two year push to get the
Massachusetts Legislature to put through the anti-bullying of seniors and people of disabilities in
subsidized housing commission and that she is getting more calls about this issue. Ms. Moore stated it
has come out of the Senate Committee and is getting ready to be voted on in the Senate and then it
goes to the House. She noted Joan Lovely, Paul Tucker and Leah Cole had been working on it. Ms.
Moore stated if we are talking of inclusion and diversity, we all need to think about educating all of us
and not just the person.
Ms. Duncan asked if Ms. Moore shared this information with at the Age Friendly Initiative meeting.
Ms. Moore stated she did, but wasn’t sure they heard it.
Ms. Moore added that another issue that has also been raised at meetings of the Salem Disability
Commission is curb cuts.
Ms. Guy asked if there were any particular ones.
Ms. Moore replied that some are needed on Wilson Street at the nice new crosswalk with the nice
colors, noting she put the request in over two (2) years ago and it’s not accessible.
Ms. Duncan stated curbcuts are something CDBG can fund.
Ms. Moore replied that coming from Wilson to Jefferson, past the Golf Course entrance, there is a nice
crosswalk with the stripes, but no curbcut. Ms. Moore stated there was another one further up on
Wilson closer to Highland. She stated that the Salem Disability Commission is coordinating with Public
Works; some of these issues may be in the areas covered here, like Wilson.
Ms. Guy asked the audience if there any additional comments.
Mr. Lepard added there are some sidewalks needing repairs or need to be redone on Laurent Street. He
stated that he didn’t know if some were already scheduled to be done. Mr. Lepard stated he saw one
being reported at See Click Fix. Mr. Lepard also expressed that he loved some of the street paving the
city had recently completed.
Ms. Duncan stated that the more specific the request, the more helpful because DPW asks for a specific
amount of money do complete sidewalks and curbing and we can try to make sure the information is
shared regarding specific locations.
Mr. Lepard stated that he wasn’t sure about Jefferson Street near Shaughnessy, because he hadn’t
taken a look for a while, but there had been areas that needed work.
Ms. Guy stated that she has heard in the past people had issues getting to Market Basket along Highland
Avenue where access is not good, but did not know if any have been improved since; therefore its
always helpful to know if there is a specific sidewalk, curb cut or crosswalk that you know of right now.
Ms. Duncan stated that DPCD works with DPW superintendent and while she doesn’t know what
priorities they have now, she will share this information.
Ms. Moore stated that she is not saying that the DPW is not doing a good job, but noted that they do
have their constraints and it’s an opportunity to have more resources needed to do their job.
Ms. Guy encouraged residents to also use See Click Fix for the curb cuts.
Mr. Lepard also commented on the area at the bottom of Laurent/Jefferson has constant flooding and
ice, which is a flooding area that has never been really fixed and that someone has recently reported
that on See Click Fix.
Ms. Duncan stated that some are potentially bigger issues, such as dealing with drainage, but it’s still
important to know.
Ms. Guy thanked those in attendance.
Part 2 – Review of Draft Plan
Public Hearing, 6:00 PM, April 7, 2016
Staff Present: Lynn Duncan, Director
Jane Guy, Assistant Community Development Director
Naomi Francisco, Housing Coordinator & Spanish translator
Attendees: 5, including 3 City staff
Lynn Duncan, Director of Planning and Community Development welcomed the attendees and
introduced Jane Guy, Assistant Community Development Director and Naomi Francisco, Housing
Coordinator.
Ms. Guy noted that attendee Lucy Corchado is a member of the Citizens Advisory Committee, which is
responsible for commenting on the plans, as well as helping out with the recommendations for Social
Service fund awards which happens typically in the fall.
Ms. Guy stated that the draft One-year Action Plan has been prepared. The City completes a Five-Year
Consolidated and then five Action Plans during the period, indicating that this is year two of the Five
Year Consolidated Plan. She stated that to utilize CDBG or HOME funds, activities must be considered
eligible by HUD’s definition, as well as primarily assist low, very low and moderate income households or
neighborhoods. Ms. Guy indicated the location of the neighborhoods on a map.
Ms. Corchado asked if the eligible neighborhoods changed at all from last year and has it expanded.
Ms. Guy responded that it had changed when the 2010 census finally came through, which was a few
years later, and again pointed to a map identifying the portion that was added and several small
sections that were removed.
Ms. Duncan stated that the area added was around McGlew Park which enabled the City to start the
McGlew Park project.
Ms. Guy stated the Five-Year Plan was completed in 2015. The Action Plan is the one year document
that outlines the activities that the City will undertake for the upcoming fiscal year that will start July 1,
2016 through June 30, 2017. She stated that the plan includes the activities that were identified as
priorities in the Five-Year Consolidated Plan, as well as additional activities that were determined to
meet new needs and priorities that were identified since the Five-Year Consolidated outreach. She
stated that activities can be undertaken by the City or can be managed directly by other organizations
such as North Shore CDC or Salem Main Streets. A request for proposals is issued to enable non-profit
agencies to request funds to provide programs that serve Salem residents. Ms. Guy stated that the City
has been informed by HUD that the annual formula allocation will be $995,257 which is a surprising
$42,600 over last year, but still 20 percent less than six years ago. For HOME funds, the information
from the Consortium states that the allocation will be $100,568, which is about $16,000 more from last
year. This is due to the Census information from the Five-Year Consolidated Plan, and her
recommendation that they look into the formula being used. Salem has more low-to-moderate income
households than what the formula provided and other communities were affected as well. She noted
that the increase it has more to do with the formula than the amount of HUD funding.
Ms. Corchado asked how much it went up.
Ms. Guy answered that it’s still 52 percent less than six years ago, but that it went up by approximately
$16,000. Ms. Guy explained that the Draft Action Plan continues to include core programs such as the
Business Loan program to create or retain jobs, funding for Main Streets, Housing Rehab Loan program,
rental down payment assistance, first time homebuyers, neighborhood infrastructure improvements
such as street improvements and tree planting, grants to social service agencies for various programs
that can be used to help those to prevent eviction, food pantries, youth activities, senior transportation,
child care, bike patrols in the Point Neighborhood and job training. The RFP was issued and the list of
proposals received is in the draft; individuals can comment on any that they would like to see funded.
Ms. Guy stated that the new activity in the plan for this year is the Point Area flood improvements,
which will install 90 catch basin inlet trash guards to prevent trash from entering and clogging piping
and flooding Point Neighborhood streets and polluting the harbor.
Ms. Corchado stated that with the rezoning of the flood areas, some areas of the Point are now
included, and asked that aside from the project mentioned, are there funds being set aside for
assistance with flood insurance or anything like it.
Ms. Guy responded in the negative, adding that she would have to look into whether the activity would
even be eligible.
Ms. Duncan responded that it would be challenging because everybody would be putting a request for
assistance with flood insurance.
Ms. Corchado asked, if in areas of low to moderate income, would there be some flexibility.
Ms. Guy responded that households close to eviction can be assisted with up to three months
emergency assistance, but couldn’t be provided with ongoing funding; therefore she believed insurance
payments would probably not be eligible. She stated that she will look into it.
Ms. Duncan stated that a call will be placed to the HUD rep.
Ms. Corchado stated emergency funding would be covered if there was flooding or major disaster.
Ms. Guy replied in the affirmative and stated that as far as the insurance payment for flood insurance,
she’s leaning towards it not being eligible, noting that it would be the landlord who would be
responsible not the tenant.
Naomi Francisco stated that maybe for owner occupied who are low income, but felt that it would be a
little tricky to approve them under the maximum income guidelines.
Ms. Duncan stated that they are guessing it wouldn’t be an eligible activity; it’s not housing, economic
development, and it’s not removal of slum and blight. She stated that they will ask and let her know.
Ms. Corchado wondered if it will fall under some type of assistance for low income rental in that area.
Ms. Guy stated maybe under Public Services, but someone would have to administer it.
Ms. Duncan stated that, if eligible, it would it mean that any low-moderate income household is eligible,
noting that the flood zone has expanded not just in the Point but in many areas.
Ms. Corchado asked if there were CDBG funds set aside for emergencies if there is flooding. She stated
that she read there was funding for emergency, urgent needs such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
Ms. Guy stated that for major catastrophes, chances are there would be disaster relief funds and the
City wouldn’t need to rely on using CDBG. She stated that the City does not set arise monies anticipating
a disaster. She noted that just because now they’ve called it a flood zone, it doesn’t mean that is any
more prone to flooding than it was before.
Ms. Corchado asked if there was appeal on the Point being included in the flood zone.
Ms. Duncan stated the City has brought an engineering firm on board to look at some of the modeling to
see if there could be changes made. Ms. Duncan stated she would check with Tom Devine who is
overseeing the project.
Ms. Corchado stated she was thinking in terms of an emergency in a low mod area and not necessarily
major flooding, but even a fire in a building where folks are displaced and need assistance.
Ms. Guy stated in the past they have been able to make funding available, such as giving extra money to
NSCAP and Salvation Army and other agencies, so that they can provide assistance directly to the
tenants that are in those properties. These agencies, including Catholic Charities, have been good at
working together and each assisting tenants to get housing. The City has been able to get agencies
working together and to use CDBG to help out whenever it can, usually for tenants to stay in hotels
temporarily or for first/last month’s rent.
Ms. Guy stated the other project being looked at is the eligibility of a South Harbor public art lighting
project; Mickey Northcutt has been encouraging the City to do this.
Ms. Duncan commented that when City was doing the Public Art Master Plan two or three years ago,
one of the ideas was try to connect the downtown and the Point Neighborhood, possibly through public
art. She stated that she thinks it will be great for the downtown and the Point neighborhood to have, if
determined eligible.
Kylie Sullivan, Director of Salem Main Streets, stated that one of the impetuses behind this is that we
have, Available Light, Inc. in Derby Square, which is the company that does a lot of illumination. She
wondered if there is some job creation that can come out of it.
Ms. Corchado stated that in terms of economic development, it would bring people to the businesses in
the area.
Ms. Sullivan added that it would make use of the service businesses in the area, which they’ve often
have had a harder time of showing and proving compared to storefront businesses. Ms. Sullivan stated
that she feels there is something there because the reason this has legs is because we have service
businesses in the downtown that can do this work and do it high quality.
Ms. Duncan stated it was very technical to get these things approved and on a broad basis it is definitely
tied to economic development, but meeting the HUD regulations is very finite. She stated that if there is
any way to do it, it will be figured out.
Ms. Guy stated that several projects will continue into FY17 that are in various stages of implementation
such as Council on Aging improvements, neighborhood history signs, McGlew Park improvements and
Mary Jane Lee park improvements. She stated that she wasn’t sure what exactly the Boston Street
neighborhood improvements will be but noted that they’re slated for a long term project in the future;
therefore the funds will be carried over. There are also some funds for the implementation of some of
the goals of the Point’s Visioning Plan. All the funding set aside for those projects will remain in place.
Ms. Corchado asked the amounts that have been set aside.
Ms. Guy responded that she believes there is about $45,000 left for the Point Visioning Plan and a chunk
of money for the Lafayette Park, but didn’t have the figures of hand and would send them to her.
Ms. Guy stated that they’re in the public comment phase; the comment period ends April 22nd after
which the plan will be finalized and they will go to Council to get approval to submit the application. She
asked for any questions or comments or welcomed written comments by April 22nd.
Ms. Corchado asked if there was any feedback from the first public meeting.
Ms. Guy stated that the social service agencies that attended stated the housing was still number one,
transportation is always a problem, including the Ride, and that it seems they are still getting the same
calls for services. The opioid problem is still a concern, and the Police are applying for grants. While the
Action Plan does not have funds set aside, there is a lot happening to address the issue. Agencies are
allowed to submit CDBG funding proposals that meet our guidelines and the RFP which indicates what is
eligible and what are high priorities. Ms. Guy stated that the City has received more education related
proposals, for which a few were funded last year.
Ms. Corchado asked if the Police, aside from the bike patrols, could request funding to bring the Dare
Program back into schools.
Ms. Guy stated they could apply, but it would probably have to be in the schools that are low-mod. She
noted that CDBG funds are limited to 15% and if new programs are added, some existing programs
would likely need to be dropped, noting that the SATV program was dropped last year. Two new
programs added included teacher visits to the low-mod kids starting Kindergarten, and a program for
low income families to save for college.
Ms. Corchado stated that with the drug issue, it would be great to have DARE to hit the kids early and,
aside from health, to talk about the dangers of getting involved in dealing, noting that they can get
CDBG funds quickly.
Ms. Guy stated the Police can apply, noting that they have applied for the bike patrols. She noted that a
grant opportunity recently came across her desk for crime/gang prevention, and that she sent it over to
Chief Mary Butler who she stated that they are already looking into it. Ms. Guy will inquire with Chief
Butler about the DARE program.
Ms. Corchado stated that even if it was on a part-time basis, such as a few several hours a week, and
even if it wasn’t called DARE, but was a type of drug prevention.