5. HRSR 08-13-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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implementation (identified as a goal and priority of the 2009-2012 Economic Development Strategic Plan and 2011 Vision and Goals) approved in September 2011 by the EDA and City Council, staff has not had adequate time to dedicate towards housing activities. In addition, staff continues to receive inquires for Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funds to assist with down payment assistance and rehabilitation and has identified a potential need for additional housing programs. Staff would like to explore the opportunity to create internal housing programs which could be funded through the HRA Development Fund. Finally, there is an opportunity to explore and potentially take advantage of various local, state and federal programs as well as research potential grant opportunities. Staff proposes to hire a college intern to assist with these tasks. The amount for the intern is included in the Personnel Services line item which reflects a 32 hour work week at$12 an hour (no benefits). Many colleges and universities require an internship to graduate,which would coincide with school semesters/terms. In 2004, the Personal Services costs were adjusted from 70/30 percent EDA and HRA respectively to 60/40 percent due to staff time allotted to the downtown construction project and redevelopment planning. It is proposed that this continue in 2013 due to staff time spent on foreclosure prevention, housing activities,intern supervision and the anticipated Downtown Redevelopment Plan. Other Professional Services The Planning Manager Jeremy expects the Downtown Plan will be approved and implementation beginning by January 1, 2013. The plan does include implementation priorities. While many of these priorities are tasks,not budget intensive,it is expected that implementation of the physical attributes of the plan will generate momentum and support for the plan. The priorities are anticipated to include signage (way finding,regulatory, street), embellishments (benches, flags,lighting,landscaping), or financial assistance. Staff suggests $30,000 of the HRA budget to be used for these purposes which may be amended up or down depending on the recommendations of the Downtown Task Force. The HRA budget does not include funding for outside of the study area. Postage,Advertising/Marketing,Publishing The increase in these line items is attributed to an increase in direct mailings,advertising, and marketing in the anticipation of new housing programs. We use direct mailing to promote foreclosure prevention initiatives and housing financial programs available from local non-profits. Staff would like to explore the potential of new housing programs to promote,which would require additional funding. Contractual Services In April of 2012, the HRA approved a master plan for the Main Street Parking Plaza which included a downtown business kiosk and a parking plaza monument sign. The budget includes $15,000 in Contractual Services and$1,500 in Other Professional Services for the design and construction of the business kiosk. In April, the HRA expressed interest and support for a business kiosk however felt the $30,000 estimate was high. The River's Edge Business Association expressed interest in the kiosk, and was open to paying for advertising on the kiosk. The designer of existing kiosk in River's Edge Commons Park,indicated a suitable kiosk to complement the existing kiosk could be designed and constructed at approximately half the cost. The proposed 2013 budget includes kiosk funding but none for the monument sign. It is believed the parking plaza name on the business kiosk sign is adequate,in addition to the comprehensive parking signage which will likely be a recommendation in the downtown 2013 HRA Budget Action Requested