PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 15/16) Section 5.2 Goals and Objectives

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3 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 15/16) Section 5.2 Goals and Objectives Goal: Increase the availability of affordable and attractive housing Expand the supply of assisted housing: o o o o o o Reduce the number of vacancies at each public housing site by decreasing maintenance turnaround time. Apply for additional vouchers (HCV, VASH project-based) as made available by HUD. Seek partnerships with local agencies to further the goal of creating additional housing opportunities. Seek available funding opportunities to increase housing stock. Attract landlords through outreach efforts to expand the range and quality of housing choices available to HCV participants. Seek HUD approval for Operating Fund Financing Program (OFFP). Goal: Improve community quality of life and economic vitality Improve curb appeal at all public housing sites. Replace aging/outdated housing stock. Conduct outreach efforts to public housing residents to promote community involvement. These include community meetings, resident fairs, and the quarterly community newsletter. Manage the assisted housing programs in an efficient and effective manner to maintain the Authority s High Performing status. Expand on relationships with Resident Councils. Goal: Increase housing choices Review HUD published Fair Market Rents (FMR) and adjust voucher payment standards, if necessary. Continue providing resources to families in an effort to expand mixed-income communities (in areas of deconcentration). Goal: Provide an improved living environment Continue plans to upgrade or replace aging housing stock in Sierra Vista Homes and Conway Homes. Increase public housing security improvements: o o Continue collaborative with the Stockton Police Department Continue collaborative with the Tracy Police Department Goals and Objectives Page 1 of 2

4 o Develop a working relationship with the San Joaquin County Sheriff s Department Consider installing speed bumps to deter speeding at all public housing sites. Promote and develop energy efficient housing. Apply for grants promoting energy efficient units. Apply for grant funding including, Choice Neighborhoods Grant, Hope VI Revitalization, Jobs Plus and any other funding made available. Goal: Promote self-sufficiency Encourage participation in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program to new and existing residents. Work to expand the FSS program and the homeownership program by seeking additional funding, if made available by HUD. Increase service provider participation in the Program Coordinating Committee. Goal: Ensure equal opportunity and affirmatively further fair housing Undertake measures to ensure access to assisted housing regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, or disability in compliance with the Fair Housing Act (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964). Provide vital documents in established languages as outlined in the Authority s policy. Maintain assisted units in compliance with Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and Uniform Physical Conditions Standards (UPCS) as imposed by HUD requirements. Ensure access to fair and effective administrative process, all complaints of discrimination will be referred to San Joaquin Fair Housing. Signage informing community members of their rights and responsibilities under fair housing law will be posted at all public housing sites and at the Administrative Building. The Authority will work towards educating residents and program participants about their rights to fair housing and equal opportunity. Goals and Objectives Page 2 of 2

5 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals Goal: Expand the supply of assisted housing Continue reducing the number of vacancies at each public housing site by decreasing maintenance turn around time Maintenance teams were established to focus on vacancy turnaround time in accordance with HUD requirements. As a result, there has been a decrease in turnaround time and the number of vacancies. Apply for additional vouchers if made available by HUD Applications were submitted to HUD for additional vouchers Project Based Vouchers (PBV) and Veterans and Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers. Seek partnerships with entities to further the goal of creating additional housing opportunities In an effort to create additional housing opportunities, partnerships have been established with local city and county agencies as well as with local non-profit and for-profit community agencies. Apply for additional VASH vouchers if they become available An application was submitted to HUD for an additional 85 VASH vouchers. The Housing Authority received 85 vouchers bringing the total to 110 VASH vouchers for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. Evaluate possibility of increasing the number of project-base Housing Choice Voucher Program vouchers The Housing Authority evaluated the impact addition vouchers would have on the Project-Based Housing Choice Program and determined it would be feasible. The Housing Authority added 13 vouchers to the program. Goal: Improve the Quality of Assisted Housing Improve public housing management: PHAS score An average PHAS score of 92.6 was maintained as follows: Fiscal Year Ending Public Housing PHAS Score Page 1 of 9

6 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals Marketability- update marketing materials including flyers All marketing materials and flyers for assisted and non-assisted properties have been updated. In addition, translation of marketing materials has been initiated utilizing the Housing Authority s identified established languages For San Joaquin County. Improve curb appeal at all public housing sites Curb appeal has been improved by: Painting the exterior units at the following Public Housing sites Conway Homes (Stockton, CA) Diablo Homes (Tracy, CA) Mokelumne Manor (Thornton, CA) Constructing and installing a new playground at Conway Homes in conjunction with Kaboom Upgrading the tot lots at Diablo Homes, Tracy, CA Building a Community Center at Mokelumne Manor, Thornton, CA Replacing windows at Diablo Homes, Tracy, CA Renovating the Sierra Vista Daycare parking lot, Stockton, CA Replacing all wooden fences with chain link fences in Sierra Vista Homes and Mokelumne Manor Conduct outreach efforts to public housing residents to promote community involvement. These include community meetings, resident fairs, and the quarterly community newsletter The Housing Authority has promoted community involvement by establishing a working relationship with community partners, which participate in Public Housing Resident Fairs conducted by the Housing Authority. Community involvement was also attained by Housing Authority participation in National Night Out evens on a yearly basis. Public Housing Resident Councils have been established. The Resident Councils meet on a monthly basis and promote community involvement by conducting quarterly events for the residents. Outreach efforts to the residents continue through the publication and distribution of a quarterly tenant newsletter. The Housing Authority collaborated with the University of the Pacific, United Way, Stockton Unified School District, San Joaquin Public Library, and the City Page 2 of 9

7 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals of Stockton to create a Summer Reading Program (SSU) for the children of Sierra Vista and Conway Homes. In addition, parenting and nutrition classes were conducted for the resident at Sierra Vista and Conway Homes. A summer nutrition program was also conducted at Sierra Vista Homes and Conway Homes for the children. Continue to maintain High-Performer Status The Housing Authority maintained high performer status each fiscal year as follows: Fiscal Year Ending Public Housing PHAS Score HCV SEMAP Score % High % High % High % High % High Goal: Increase housing choices Housing Authority Status Expand outreach efforts Outreach efforts were made by establishing partnerships with various entities within San Joaquin County. Housing Authority staff participated and distributed housing information at the following community events: Job Fairs State of the City (City of Stockton) Senior Awareness Day Mobile Health Fairs in partnership with the University of the Pacific In an effort to reach out to families participating in the Women, Infant and Children (WIC) program, the Housing Authority provided a satellite office. The Housing Authority also worked with the Emergency Food Bank to distribute food to the residents at Conway and Sierra Vista Homes. Review voucher payment standards and adjust if necessary The HUD published Fair Market Rents were reviewed in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and were adjusted accordingly. In 2012, HUD granted the Housing Authority a waiver to reduce the payment standards below 90%. Page 3 of 9

8 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals Conduct outreach efforts to potential voucher landlords through providing program updates to existing and potential landlords In addition to attending outreach workshops throughout San Joaquin County, the Housing Authority hosted landlord outreach workshops for existing and potential landlords. Expand public housing or voucher homeownership program The HCVP homeownership program expanded by an additional 2 new families bringing the total to 17. Goal: Provide an improved living environment Develop a plan to upgrade or replace aging housing stock such as Sierra Vista The Housing Authority has the following HUD approved plans to upgrade or replace aging housing stock: Demolition Plan (Phase 1) to demolish 8 units in Conway Homes and 4 units in Sierra Vista Homes (units were demolished in 2013). Development Plan (Phase 1) to rebuild 8 units in Conway Homes and 4 units in Sierra Vista Homes. (work commenced March 2015) Demolition to demolish an additional 36 units in Sierra Vista Homes, which covers the south side of 12 th Street. (pending demolition, to begin in 2015) Increasing public housing security improvements o Continue collaborative with the Stockton Police Department o Develop a working relationship with the Tracy Police Department. o Develop a trespassing permit with the Tracy PD for Tracy Development An application was submitted to HUD for the Capital Fund security grant to increase public housing security improvements (security cameras and security screen doors). The Housing Authority was not a recipient of this grant. The Housing Authority installed security cameras at Sierra Vista Homes and Conway Homes. The Housing Authority continues to work closely with the Stockton Police Department. Neighborhood Watch and crime prevention meetings are conducted on a monthly basis. The Housing Authority established a mutual working relationship with the Tracy Police Department, which has resulted in the development of a trespassing permit and has been in effect since Page 4 of 9

9 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals Consider installing speed bumps to deter speeding at Conway Homes and Sierra Vista Homes Meetings were held with residents of Sierra Vista Homes and Conway Homes and the Stockton Police Department to discuss the benefits of installing speed bumps to deter speeding. Work to expand the FSS program and the homeownership program by seeking additional HUD funding if made available by HUD Applications were submitted for available Family Self Sufficiency Program and Homeownership Program funding. The Housing Authority received funding to increase the number of FSS coordinators, which resulted in an increase in the number of FSS participants. Explore all available avenues to de-concentrate low income families with the goal of expanding mixed income communities The Housing Authority of the county of San Joaquin encouraged families to search for housing in non-impacted areas at initial briefing sessions (HCV Program) where deconcentration maps and materials were distributed to families. The Housing Authority has an on-line rental listing where landlords can list their available properties located anywhere in San Joaquin County. Additionally the Housing Authority has received the 5 bonus points awarded in the SEMAP score for each of the last 5 fiscal years. Promote and develop Green or energy efficient housing. Continue to seek and apply for green grants. The Housing Authority has improved energy efficiency by: Installation of energy efficient refrigerators at the Buthmann Avenue units in Diablo Homes, Tracy, CA. Installation of energy efficient water heaters in each Public Housing units. Installation of energy efficient windows was installed in all units at Diablo Homes, Tracy, CA. Installing energy efficient HVAC units at all units at Washington Street Apartments, Lodi, CA, Mourfield units, Stockton, CA. Installing energy efficient HVAC units in most units at Sierra Vista Homes, Stockton, CA, Conway Homes, Stockton, CA, Diablo Homes, Tracy, CA, Mokelumne Manor, Thornton, CA Page 5 of 9

10 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals Energy efficient appliances and equipment will be utilized in the upcoming 8 units in Conway Homes and the 4 units in Sierra Vista Homes. Apply for grant funding including but not limited to Choice Neighborhood Grants and Hope VI revitalization. Applications were submitted to HUD, U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA), City of Stockton, and County of San Joaquin for various grants. Goal: Promote self-sufficiency Increase collaboration with San Joaquin County Worknet. As a result of collaborating with San Joaquin County Worknet, the number of Worknet staff gaining work experience at the Housing Authority has increased. Promote participation in Family Self Sufficiency to new and existing residents Housing Author staff promotes FSS program participation to new and existing residents and participants at the time of orientation, at annual reexamination interviews, at monthly meetings and during resident fairs. Fiscal Year Ending Public Housing FSS Participants HCV FSS Participants Continue to collaborate with Office of Education Youth build offering training opportunities for youth at the Public Housing sites The Housing Authority continued to work with San Joaquin County Office of Education Youthbuild. Training opportunities have been provided to Youth build participants through Housing Authority construction projects. Continue to develop and promote strong working relations with other Social Service providers Quarterly meetings held by the Program Coordinating Committee (PCC) with social service providers, which has resulted in strong working relationships. The PCC meets quarterly with these providers and a collaborative effort is made to improve outreach, awareness of available resources and improve social services. Page 6 of 9

11 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals In an effort to reach out to families participating in the Women, Infant and Children (WIC) program, the Housing Authority provided a satellite office. The Housing Authority has also worked with the Emergency Food Bank to distribute food to the residents. A combined effort between the Housing Authority, First 5 of San Joaquin, and the San Joaquin County Public Library resulted in the creation of a little free library for children at Sierra Vista Homes. Provide or attract supportive services to increase independence for the elderly or families with disabilities. Research indicates that keeping seniors physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally engaged can help them retain better cognitive function, stay healthier, and live independently longer. The Housing Authority received grant funding for a service coordinator and ROSS service coordinators for Public Housing. The Housing Authority utilized this funding to promote supportive services for the elderly and/or families with disabilities to increase independence. Socialization opportunities were also provided by opening the Community Center during the day for residents to socialize with other tenants, play games like dominos, or just relax with a cup of coffee. The Housing Authority also collaborated with the Department of Aging to provide one congregate meal a day during the week at no cost to the tenants. Events held at the Franco Center Apartments included medical clinics, holiday themed parties, crime and safety meetings, and social events. Continue developing the membership of the Program Coordinating Committee The PCC has increased the number of participants on the committee by establishing new working relationships with local service providers. The PCC has welcomed 29 new members to the committee. Continue promoting economic development Economic development has been promoted with other service providers through the Family Self-Sufficiency Program. The PCC conducted quarterly meetings. The Housing Authority hosted workshops at public housing sites about resume building, financial literacy, nutrition, and parenting. Computers were also made available at the sites for residents to use for resume building, job searching, and homework. The Housing Authority collaborated with the University of the Pacific, United Way, Stockton Unified School District, San Joaquin Public Library, and the City Page 7 of 9

12 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals of Stockton to create a Summer Reading Program (SSU) for the children of Sierra Vista and Conway Homes. Goal: Ensure equal opportunity and affirmatively further fair housing Undertake measure to ensure access to assisted housing regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. In compliance with the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Housing Authority provided equal opportunity and fair housing training and materials to staff, residents, and program participants. Continued compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to ensure that program admission and employment practices are conducted without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, handicap, disability or national origin The following measures were taken to ensure that program admission and employment practices were conducted without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, handicap, disability, or national origin: Educated staff through trainings about equal opportunity and fair housing related topics. Provided staff with materials regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of All staff attended annual fair housing trainings. All new employees were provided with fair housing training within 30 days of employment. Promote positive measures to provide a suitable living environment During initial briefings and orientations, residents and participants were provided with educational materials about fair housing rights, guides to attain family selfsufficiency, and information about general housekeeping practices. The public housing sites partnered with local law enforcement agencies to provide increased security measures for residents. In addition, the Housing Authority conducted annual inspections of all units to ensure a suitable living environment has been maintained by the residents. Promote affirmative measures to ensure accessible housing to persons with all varieties of disabilities regardless of unit size required. A Reasonable Accommodation policy has been implemented to ensure accessible housing to persons with disabilities. Page 8 of 9

13 PHA 5-Year ( ) and Annual Plan (FY 2015/2016) Section 10.0a Additional Information Progress in Meeting Mission and Goals Maintain all dwelling units at a minimum with Housing Quality Standards imposed by HUD and Local Housing Departments. Housing Quality Standards inspections of the Housing Choice Voucher program and Uniform Physical Condition Standards (UPCS) inspections of Public Housing units were conducted annually to ensure that all units meet HUD and local housing departments (city, county and state) requirements. Ensure access to fair and effective administrative process, all complaints of discrimination will be referred to San Joaquin Fair Housing. Signage informing community members of their rights and responsibilities under fair housing law will be posted at all Public Housing sites, and the Administrative Building. HACSJ will work towards educating residents and program participants about their right to fair housing. All offices have fair housing posters in the lobby for public viewing and all applicants, participants, and tenants are provided with Fair Housing informational materials. In addition, all staff attended annual Fair Housing training and all newly hired employees were provided with Fair Housing training within 30 days from the date of hire. A designated staff person has been assigned to assess fair housing complaints and to follow up on the complaints in a fair and timely manner. Page 9 of 9

14 Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan (Admin Plan) Summary of Changes Each year the Housing Choice Voucher Program updates the Administrative Plan to reflect changes to the program s administration based on issuance of the Public and Indian Housing (PIH) Notices by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, issuance of new Codes of Federal Regulations (CFR), or Housing Authority discretion. The following outlines the significant revisions proposed for the fiscal year beginning October 1, Admin Plan Reference Chapter 5 Subsidy Standards, Unit Size Selected Page 5-5 Chapter 6 Factors Related to Total Tenant Payment & Family Share Page 6-17 Current Utility Allowance The utility allowance used to calculate the gross rent is based the lower of: 1 The utility allowance amount for the family unit size ; or 2 The utility allowance amount for the unit size of the unit rented by the family. Utility Allowance and Utility Reimbursement Payments The approved utility allowance schedule is given to families along with their voucher. The utility allowance is based on the actual unit size selected. Proposed Utility Allowance The utility allowance used to calculate the gross rent is based on the actual voucher size issued to the family (effective July 1, 2014). The lower of: 1 The utility allowance amount for the family unit size ; or 2 The utility allowance amount for the unit size of the unit rented by the family. Utility Allowance and Utility Reimbursement Payments The approved utility allowance schedule is given to families along with their voucher. The utility allowance is based on the actual unit voucher size selected issued to the family (effective July 1, 2014) Chapter 7 Verification Procedures Page 7-5 Items to be Verified The following items will be verified: All income. Zero income status of household. Zero income applicants and residents will be required to complete Items to be Verified The following items will be verified: All income. Zero income status of household. Zero income applicants and residents may will be required to 2015 Admin Plan Summary of Changes Page 1 of 6

15 Admin Plan Reference Page 7-9 Chapter 10 Housing Quality Standards and Inspections, Page 10-5 Page 10-8 Current a Monthly Expenditure form at each certification or recertification. Zero Income Status Families claiming to have no income will be required to sign verification forms to determine that forms of income such as unemployment benefits, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), SSI, etc. are not being received by the household. The family will be required to complete a Monthly Expenditure Form. The Housing Authority will request information from the State Employment Development Department and the IRS. Carbon Monoxide Detector Carbon Monoxide detectors shall be installed on every floor and outside each sleeping area. Carbon Monoxide Detectors Carbon Monoxide detectors shall be installed on every floor, and outside each sleeping area. The carbon monoxide device shall be operable at the time that the tenant takes possession of the unit. A tenant shall be responsible for notifying the owner or owner s agent if the tenant becomes aware of an inoperable or deficient carbon monoxide device within his or her unit. The owner or owner s agent shall correct any reported deficiencies or inoperability s in the carbon monoxide device. Proposed complete a Monthly Expenditure form at each certification or recertification. Zero Income Status Families claiming to have no income will be required to sign verification forms to determine that forms of income such as unemployment benefits, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), SSI, etc. are not being received by the household. The family will may be required to complete a Monthly Expenditure Form. The Housing Authority will may request information from the State Employment Development Department and the IRS. Carbon Monoxide Detector Carbon Monoxide detectors shall be installed on every floor, including the basement and outside each sleeping area. Carbon Monoxide Detectors Carbon Monoxide detectors shall be installed on every floor, including the basement and outside each sleeping area. The carbon monoxide device shall be operable at the time that the tenant takes possession of the unit. A tenant shall be responsible for notifying the owner or owner s agent if the tenant becomes aware of an inoperable or deficient carbon monoxide device within his or her unit. The owner or owner s agent shall correct any reported deficiencies or inoperability s in the carbon monoxide device Admin Plan Summary of Changes Page 2 of 6

16 Admin Plan Reference Page 10-9 Current Determination of Responsibility Certain HQS deficiencies are considered the responsibility of the family: Tenant-paid utilities not in service. Failure to provide or maintain family-supplied appliances. Damage to the unit or premises caused by a household member or guest beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear is defined as items which could not be charged against the tenant's security deposit under State law or court practice. The owner may be responsible for all other HQS violations. Proposed Determination of Responsibility Certain HQS deficiencies are considered the responsibility of the family: Tenant-paid utilities not in service. Failure to provide or maintain family-supplied appliances. Damage to the unit or premises caused by a household member or guest beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear is defined as items which could not be charged against the tenant's security deposit under State law or court practice. In accordance with 24 CFR , the family is responsible for a breach of the HQS that is caused by any of the following: The family fails to pay for any utilities that the owner is not required to pay for, but which are to be paid by the tenant; The family fails to provide and maintain any appliances that the owner is not required to provide, but which are to be provided by the tenant; or Any member of the household or guest damages the dwelling unit or premises (damages beyond ordinary wear and tear. The owner may be responsible for all other HQS violations Admin Plan Summary of Changes Page 3 of 6

17 Admin Plan Reference Chapter 11 Owner Rents, Rent Reasonableness and Payment Standards Page 11-3 Page 11-7 Current Late payments to owners Adjustments to Payment Standards Proposed Late payments to owners Add: If Housing Assistance Payments are not paid promptly when due after the first two calendar months of the HAP contract term, the Housing Authority shall pay the owner penalties if all of the following circumstances apply: 1. Such penalties are in accordance with generally accepted practices and law, as applicable in the local housing market, governing penalties for late payment of rent by a tenant; 2. It is the owner s practice to charge such penalties for assisted and unassisted tenants; and 3. The owner also charges such penalties against the tenant for late payment of family rent to owner. Adjustments to Payment Standards Request to add Decrease in the Payment Standard [24 CFR ] If the amount on the payment standard schedule is decreased during the term of the HAP contract, the lower payment standard amount generally must be used to calculate the monthly housing assistance payment for the family beginning at the effective date of the family s second regular reexamination following the effective date of the decrease in the payment standard amount Admin Plan Summary of Changes Page 4 of 6

18 Admin Plan Reference Chapter 17 Program Integrity Page 17-2 and 3 Chapter 23 Family Self Sufficiency Page 23-2 Current Steps the HA will take to detect program abuse and fraud Family Selection Procedures Any family receiving housing assistance through the Public Housing or the Housing Choice Voucher Program may volunteer for FSS Program without consideration of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status or national origin. A family may participate in the FSS program only once. ESCROW ACCOUNT ESCROW DISBURSEMENT When the family successfully completes their contract, the head of the family shall be paid the amount Proposed Steps the HA will take to detect program abuse and fraud Needs to be included: Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system. The Housing Authority will verify tenant employment and income information during mandatory reexaminations of family composition and income; and reduce administrative and subsidy payment errors in accordance with 24 CFR and administrative guidance issued by HUD. The Housing Authority has established a procedure for EIV use. Family Selection Procedures Any family receiving housing assistance through the Public Housing or the Housing Choice Voucher Program may volunteer for to enroll in the FSS Program without consideration of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status or national origin. A family may participate in the FSS program only once. ESCROW ACCOUNT [24 CFR ] ESCROW DISBURSEMENT [24 CFR ] When the family successfully completes their contract, the head of the family shall be paid the amount in the FSS account. The family 2015 Admin Plan Summary of Changes Page 5 of 6

19 Admin Plan Reference Acronyms Current in the FSS account. The family must submit a certification to the Housing Authority that no member of the FSS family is a recipient of welfare assistance. The Housing Authority will conduct a third party verification to confirm that the family is free of welfare assistance. PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS Proposed must submit a certification to the Housing Authority that no member of the FSS family is a recipient of welfare assistance for at least twelve (12) consecutive months before the contract expires. The Housing Authority will conduct a third party verification to confirm that the family is free of welfare assistance. PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS [24 CFR ] See attached list of proposed acronyms to be added 2015 Admin Plan Summary of Changes Page 6 of 6

20 Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Admissions & Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP) Summary of Changes Each year Public Housing updates the ACOP to reflect changes to the program s administration based on issuance of the Public and Indian Housing (PIH) Notices by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, issuance of new Codes of Federal Regulations (CFR) or Housing Authority discretion. The following outlines the significant revisions proposed for the fiscal year beginning October 1, ACOP Reference Current Proposed Chapter 2, Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity; Page 2-8 Chapter 3, Eligibility; Page 3-12 Chapter 4, Applications, Waiting List, and Tenant Selection; Page 4-7 If a person s disability is obvious or otherwise known to the Housing Authority, and if the need for the requested reasonable accommodation is also readily apparent or known, no further verification will be required All applicant families must be notified of the requirement to submit evidence of their citizenship status when they apply. Where feasible, and in accordance with the Housing Authority s Limited English Proficiency Plan, the notice must be in a language that is understood by the individual if the individual is not proficient in English. Reopening the Waiting List If the waiting list has been closed, it may be reopened at any time. The Housing Authority will publish a notice in local newspapers of general circulation, minority media, and other suitable media outlets that the Housing Authority is reopening the waiting list. Such notice must comply with HUD fair housing requirements. The Housing Authority should specify who may If a person s disability is obvious or otherwise known to the Housing Authority, and if the need for the requested reasonable accommodation is also readily apparent or known, no further verification may will be required All applicant families must be notified of the requirement to submit evidence of their citizenship status when they apply. Where feasible, and in accordance with the Housing Authority s Limited English Proficiency Language Access Plan (LAP), the notice must be in a language that is understood by the individual if the individual is not proficient in English. Reopening the Waiting List If the waiting list has been closed, it may be reopened at any time. The Housing Authority will publish a notice in accordance with the Housing Authority s Language Access Plan (LAP) in local newspapers of general circulation, minority media, and other suitable media outlets that the Housing Authority is reopening the waiting list. Such notice must comply with 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 1 of 23

21 apply, and where and when preapplications will be received. HUD fair housing requirements. The Housing Authority should specify who may apply, and where and when pre-applications will be Chapter 4, Applications, Waiting List, and Tenant Selection; Pages 4-21 to III.D. THE APPLICATION INTERVIEW HUD recommends that the Housing Authority obtain the information and documentation needed to make a program eligibility determination through a private interview. Being invited to attend an interview does not constitute admission to the program. received. 4-III.D. THE APPLICATION INTERVIEW HUD recommends that the Housing Authority obtain the information and documentation needed to make a program eligibility determination through a private interview. Being invited to attend an interview does not constitute admission to the program. Reasonable accommodations must be made for persons with disabilities who are unable to attend an interview due to their disability [24 CFR 8.4(a) and 24 CFR (a)]. Housing Authority Policy Applicants selected from the waiting list are required to participate in a program eligibility interview (full application interview). An advocate, interpreter, or other assistant may assist the family with the application and the interview process. Interviews will be conducted in English. For Limited English Proficient (LEP) applicants, the Housing Authority will provide translation services in accordance with the Housing Authority s LEP plans. Reasonable accommodations must be made for persons with disabilities who are unable to attend an interview due to their disability [24 CFR 8.4(a) and 24 CFR (a)]. Housing Authority Policy Applicants selected from the waiting list are required to participate in a program eligibility interview (full application interview). An advocate, interpreter, or other assistant may assist the family with the application and the interview process. Interviews will be conducted in English. For Limited English Proficient (LEP) applicants, the Housing Authority will provide translation services in accordance with the Housing Authority s LEP and Language Access Plan (LAP) plans ACOP Summary of Changes Page 2 of 23

22 Chapter 5, Occupancy Standards and Unit Offers; Pages 5-3 to 5-4 Processing of Exceptions Processing of Exceptions Housing Authority Policy All requests for exceptions to the occupancy standards must be submitted in writing. In the case of a request for exception as a reasonable accommodation, the Housing Authority will encourage the resident to make the request in writing using a reasonable accommodation request form. However, the Housing Authority will consider the exception request any time the family indicates that a reasonable accommodation is needed whether or not a formal written request is submitted. Requests for a larger size unit must explain the need or justification for the larger size unit, and must include appropriate documentation. Requests based on health-related reasons must be verified by a knowledgeable professional source. The Housing Authority will notify the family in writing of its decision the status within ten (10) business days of receiving the family s request. (See Chapter 2, Part II, and Polices Related to Persons with Disabilities for more information on Reasonable Accommodation.) Housing Authority Policy All requests for exceptions to the occupancy standards must be submitted in writing. In the case of a request for exception as a reasonable accommodation, the Housing Authority will encourage the resident to make the request in writing using a reasonable accommodation request form. However, the Housing Authority will consider the exception request any time the family indicates that a reasonable accommodation is needed whether or not a formal written request is submitted. Requests for a larger size unit must explain the need or justification for the larger size unit, and must include appropriate documentation. Requests based on healthrelated reasons must be verified by a knowledgeable professional source. The Housing Authority will notify the family in writing of its decision the status within ten (10) business days of receiving the family s request. (See Chapter 2, Part II, Polices Related to Persons with Disabilities for more information on Reasonable Accommodation.) 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 3 of 23

23 Chapter 6, Income and Rent Determination; Pages 6-3 Absent Head, Spouse, or Co-head Chapter 6, Income and Rent Determination; Pages 6-24 to 4-27 Updated to match new published list in 24 CFR Housing Authority Policy An employed head, spouse, or cohead absent from the unit more than ninety (90) cumulative days due to employment will continue to be considered a family member. Amounts specifically excluded by any other federal statute [24 CFR 5.609]. HUD publishes an updated list of these exclusions periodically. It includes: The value of the allotment provided to an eligible household under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C (b)); Absences Due to Employment Absent Head, Spouse, or Co-head Housing Authority Policy An employed head, spouse, cohead, or other adult family member absent from the unit more than ninety (90) cumulative days due to employment will continue to be considered a family member. Amounts specifically excluded by any other federal statute [24 CFR 5.609]. HUD publishes an updated list of these exclusions periodically. It includes: The value of the allotment provided to an eligible household under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C (b)); Payments to Volunteers under the Domestic Volunteer Services Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5044(g), 5058); Payments received under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1626(c)); Payments to Volunteers under the Domestic Volunteer Services Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5044(g), 5058); Certain payments received under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1626(c)); Income derived from certain sub-marginal land of the United States that is held in trust for certain Indian tribes (25 U.S.C. 459e); Income derived from certain sub-marginal land of the United States that is held in trust for certain Indian tribes (25 U.S.C. 459e); Payments or allowances made under the Department of Health and Human Services Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (42 U.S.C. Payments or allowances made under the Department of Health and Human Services Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (42 U.S.C ACOP Summary of Changes Page 4 of 23

24 8624(f)); 8624(f)); Income derived from the disposition of funds to the Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians (Pub. L , 90 Stat ) The first $2,000 of per capita shares received from judgment funds awarded by the Indian Claims Commission or the U. S. Claims Court, the interests of individual Indians in trust or restricted lands, including the first $2,000 per year of income received by individual Indians from funds derived from interests held in such trust or restricted lands (25 U.S.C ). Amounts of scholarships funded under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, including awards under the federal work-study program or under the Bureau of Indian Affairs student assistance programs (20 U.S.C. 1087uu). Payments received from programs funded under Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3056(g)); Payments received on or after January 1, 1989, from the Agent Orange Settlement Fund or any other fund Income derived from the disposition of funds to the Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians (Pub. L , Section 690 Stat ) The first $2,000 of per capita shares received from judgment funds awarded by the Nation Indian Claims Gaming Commission or the U. S. Claims Court, the interests of individual Indians in trust or restricted lands, including and the first $2,000 per year of income received by individual Indians from funds derived from interests held in such trust or restricted lands (25 U.S.C ). This exclusion does not include proceeds of gaming operations regulated by the Commission; Amounts of scholarships funded under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070), including awards under the federal work-study program or under the Bureau of Indian Affairs student assistance programs (20 U.S.C. 1087uu). For section 8 programs only (42 U.S.C. 1437f), any financial assistance in excess of amounts received by an individual for tuition and 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 5 of 23

25 established pursuant to the settlement in In Re Agent- Orange Product Liability Litigation, M.D.L. No. 381 (E.D.N.Y.); Payments received under the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act of 1980 (25 U.S.C. 1728); The value of any child care provided or arranged (or any amount received as payment for such care or reimbursement for costs incurred for such care) under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858q); any other required fees and charges under the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C et seq.), from private sources, or an institution of higher education (as defined under the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002)), shall not be considered income to that individual if the individual is over the age of 23 with dependent children (Pub. L , section 327) (as amended); Payments received from programs funded under Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3056(g)); Earned income tax credit (EITC) refund payments received on or after January 1, 1991, (26 U.S.C. 32(l)); Payments by the Indian Claims Commission to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of Yakima Indian Nation or the Apache Tribe of Mescalero Reservation (Pub. L ); Allowances, earnings and payments to AmeriCorps participants under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C (d)); Any amount of crime victim compensation (under the Victims of Crime Act) Payments received on or after January 1, 1989, from the Agent Orange Settlement Fund (Pub. L ) or any other fund established pursuant to the settlement in In Re Agent- Orange Product Liability Litigation, M.D.L. No. 381 (E.D.N.Y.); Payments received under the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act of 1980 (25 U.S.C. 1728); The value of any child care provided or arranged (or any amount received as payment for such care or reimbursement for costs incurred for such care) under the Child Care and 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 6 of 23

26 received through crime victim assistance (or payment or reimbursement of the cost of such assistance) as determined under the Victims of Crime Act because of the commission of a crime against the applicant under the Victims of Crime Act (42 U.S.C ); Allowances, earnings and payments to individuals participating in programs under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2931(a)(2)); Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858q); Earned income tax credit (EITC) refund payments received on or after January 1, 1991, for programs administered under the United States Housing Act of 1937, title V of the Housing Act of 1949, section 101 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965, and sections 221(d)(3), 235, and 236 of the National Housing Act (26 U.S.C. 32(l)); Any amount received under the School Lunch Act and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1780(b)), including reduced-price lunches and food under the Special Supplemental Food Program for Woman, Infants, and Children (WIC); Payments, funds, or distributions authorized, established, or directed by the Seneca Nation Settlement Act of 1990 (25 U.S.C. 1774f(b)); Payments from any deferred Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits that are received in a lump sum or in prospective monthly amounts as provided by an amendment to the definition of annual income in the U.S. Housing Payments by the Indian Claims Commission to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of Yakima Indian Nation or the Apache Tribe of Mescalero Reservation (Pub. L ); Allowances, earnings and payments to AmeriCorps participants under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C (d)); Any allowance paid under the provisions of 38 U.S.C to children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida (38 U.S.C , children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects (38 U.S.C ), and children of certain Korean service veterans 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 7 of 23

27 Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437) by Section 2608 of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (Pub. L , 42 U.S.C. 4501); Compensation received by or on behalf of a veteran for service-connected disability, death, dependency, or indemnity compensation as provided by an amendment by the Indian Veterans Housing Opportunity Act of 2010 (Pub. L ) to the definition of income applicable to programs authorized under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self- Determination Act of 1996 (25 U.S.C. 4101) and administered by the Office of Native American Programs; A lump sum or a periodic payment received by an individual Indian pursuant to the Class Action Settlement Agreement in the case entitled Elouise Cobell et al. v Ken Salazar et al., United States District Court, District of Columbia, as provided in the Claims Resolution Act of 2010 (pub L ); born with spina bifida (38 U.S.C. 1821); Any amount of crime victim compensation (under the Victims of Crime Act) received through crime victim assistance (or payment or reimbursement of the cost of such assistance) as determined under the Victims of Crime Act because of the commission of a crime against the applicant under the Victims of Crime Act (42 U.S.C ); Allowances, earnings and payments to individuals participating in programs under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2931(a)(2)); Any amount received under the Richard B Russell School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1760(e)) and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1780(b)), including reduced-price lunches and food under the Special Supplemental Food Program for Woman, Infants, and Children (WIC); Payments, funds, or distributions authorized, established, or directed by the Seneca Nation Settlement Act of 1990 (25 U.S.C. 1774f(b)); 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 8 of 23

28 Payments from any deferred Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits that are received in a lump sum or in prospective monthly amounts as provided by an amendment to the definition of annual income in the U.S. Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)(4)) by Section 2608 of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (Pub. L , 42 U.S.C. 4501); Compensation received by or on behalf of a veteran for service-connected disability, death, dependency, or indemnity compensation as provided by an amendment by the Indian Veterans Housing Opportunity Act of 2010 (Pub. L ; 25 U.S.C. 4103(9)) to the definition of income applicable to programs authorized under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self- Determination Act (NAHASDA) of 1996 (25 U.S.C et seq.) and administered by the Office of Native American Programs; A lump sum or a periodic payment received by an individual Indian pursuant to the Class Action Settlement Agreement in 2015 ACOP Summary of Changes Page 9 of 23

29 the case entitled Elouise Cobell et al. v Ken Salazar et al., 816 F.Supp.2d 10 (Oct. 5, 2011 D.D.C.). for a period one year from the time of receipt of that payment United States District Court, District of Columbia, as provided in the Claims Resolution Act of 2010 (pub L ); Any amounts in an individual development account as provided by the Assets for Independence Act, as amended in 2002 (Pub. L , 42 U.S.C. 604(h)(4)); Per capita payments made from the proceeds of Indian Tribal Trust Cases as described in PIH Notice exclusion from Income of Payments under Recent Tribal Trust Settlements (25 U.S.C. 117b(a); and Major disaster and emergency assistance received by individuals and families under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Pub. L , as amended) and comparable disaster assistance provided by States, local governments, and disaster assistance organizations (42 U.S.C. 5155(d)) ACOP Summary of Changes Page 10 of 23