12-04-09 Redevelopment Commission Minutes

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South Bend Redevelopment Commission Regular Meeting –December 4, 2009 7. PROGRESS REPORTS (CONT.) Mr. Varner asked how the program is advertised. Ms. Trowbridge responded that they advertise periodically in the newsletter that goes out in the water bills, neighborhood newsletters, etc. Brochures are available th in the reception area on the 12 floor. Staff does track how people hear of their programs and by far the most common method is word of mouth. Mr. Varner asked about the funding source and, therefore, the boundaries of the program’s availability. Ms. Trowbridge said that the source of funds is the federal Community Development Block Grant. The program is available within the City of South Bend limits to income eligible home owners. Mr. Varner asked whether all program funds must be spent each year. Ms. Trowbridge responded that funds can be carried over to the next year. The funds spent so far in 2009 are those carried over from 2008. Ms. King asked how many transactions are processed in a year. Ms. Trowbridge said that the program helps between 35 and 50 homes per year. There are considerably more applicants than that who don’t qualify. Mr. Downes asked how much is disbursed through the program each year. Ms. Trowbridge did not have that information available, but offered to provide that information later. Mr. Downes thought that would be good information to publicize. Mr. Downes asked if Ms. Trowbridge knew how many of the loans were actually repaid. Ms. Trowbridge didn’t have the exact figures, but said their collection rate is very good. Uncollectible loans are referred to the city’s legal department. Ms. King thanked Ms. Trowbridge for the information. She said her interest in the guidelines was prompted by 14