10-03-2016 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Housing and Redevelopment Minutes Page 3 October 3,2016 • Commissioner Burandt asked who funds thero am. Ms. explained the historyof p � � acquiring the Exon-Mobil funding back in the 1970's and how the program functions. She noted that the funds must be used for home improvement. Commissioner Eder asked how the 50 percent building permit rebates works. Ms. DeGrande stated that the building permit fees are paid in full when the permits are pulled and when the final walk-thru and C.O. is complete, the rebate is released. Commissioner Eder asked if the work had to be done by a licensed contractor. Ms. DeGrande stated no, that the homeowner can do the work. She noted that the $35,000 maximum is based on the value of the work,not the actual costs,and that value of the work is determined during the planning process. Commissioner Eder asked if an appraisal is required. Ms. DeGrande stated no, unless it does not appear the home will have the necessary equity. Commissioner Burandt asked if windows and roofing projects qualify. Ms. DeGrande stated they do, but only if they are part of a major project described in the qualifying criteria. She added that the intent of this requirement is to attract larger investments in older homes,in order to retain the homeowners and home values. Ms. DeGrande stated that Coon Rapids has sponsored a home remodeling tour for the past three years in the spring,with this event drawing 175—450 people. 4111 Commissioner Chuba asked about the participation level by architects. Ms. DeGrande stated that they originally had nine,but two withdraw because they moved away and the other was just too busy. She noted that the city provides a $140 allowance for the architectural consultation,with the homeowner paying$25. Commissioner Chuba asked what the homeowner would gain by the consultation. Ms. DeGrande explained that it varies, since some homeowners already know exactly what they want to do,and some have no idea other than they want to gut a bathroom, or they need more living space. She noted that the architect often gives them a sketch after the consultation,but the homeowner would have to pay for formal plans if they wanted them. Ms. DeGrande explained that the City of Coon Rapids has other projects such as emergency fund for instances where someone urgently needed a new furnace or sewer system and they didn't have the money. Discussion among members concluded on the Coon Rapids program and discussion continued regarding the HRA rehabilitation loan program. Chair Toth asked if the line could be moved on the targeted area to remove the schools, churches and apartments, since they would not qualify for the program anyway. Ms. Othoudt stated that would not be necessary, since the criteria would define who was eligible. Commissioner Chuba stated he felt they should utilize more of the funds, since they had $143,000 available now. Ms. Othoudt noted that eventually they would be able to allocate • less and less, as funds are paid back.