2023 (CDBG) & (ESG) & (HOME) Program- Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report

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CR-35 - Other Actions 91.220(j)-(k); 91.320(i)-(j) Actions taken to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls,tax policies affecting land,zoning ordinances, building codes,fees and charges,growth limitations,and policies affecting the return on residential investment. 91.220 (j); 91.320 (i) In 2023,the South Bend Human Rights Commission (HRC)transitioned from fully vitual training sessions to in-person training participated in a number of community events to educate the community on fair housing issues. In the Spring of 2023, HRC hosted three virtual Fair Housing Webinars with Judith Fox, Amy Nelson and Doneisha Posey each hosting a week. The City of South Bend website's Human Rights Commission page also contains recording of past virtual webinars. The annual Fair Housing Luncheon was held in person in April which included the presenation of the high school Fair Housing Essay winners. HRC participated in a number of community events in which they staffed a vendor table and shared information regarding the services and actions they take with attendees. Events held in South Bend in 2023 included The Martin Luther King JR Celebration in January, the University of Notre Dame University of Notre Dame Juneteenth celebration in June,the City of South Bend's Police Night Out in July,the University of Notre Dame Resource Fair in August,the Meet the Mayor(City of South Bend) in September, La Casa's Trunk and Treat event in October, SBPD's Cops and Goblins event in October. At each event, HRC staff was able to share information, answer questions and pass out literature. In October 2023, HRC hosted a training titled Basics of Fair Housing in an Inclusive Community for residents of Mishawaka. The City of South Bend continues to be a HUD Certified Housing Counseling Agency. Housing counseling services offered include Pre-Purchase and Homebuyer Education.While not a financial mechanism, increased education and understanding around budgeting and fnancial health,and the costs and risks of homeownership can direct individuals to successful outcome. Understanding if and when a home purchase is a viable option is of critical importance. In 2022 the City adopted and implemented the following to support development which have continued into 2023: • Sewer lateral reimbursement program to reimburse up to$20,000 for certain infill housing • System Development charge ordinance to reduce development costs: Cost is associated with demand a new user will place on the water and sewer system; No cost for infill developments of up to five(5) residential units; No cost for any residential infill development done by non-profit or part of Low Income Housing Tax Credit Project. • Preapproved design plans for infill housing which adheres to the current zoning and building codes. These plans help to reduce pre-development costs to developers and builders. The plan CAPER 34 OMB Control No:2506-0117(exp.09/30/2021)