Restore NY Communities (August 2007)

New Construction Webcast (July 2007)

FHA Update Seminar (July 2007)

Co-sponsor H.R. 2895 (July 2007)

 The Home Depot Foundation Grants (June 2007)

HUD Announces 2007 SuperNOFA (March 2007)

Enterprise Green Grants Due (February 2007)

Housing Policy Change Proposed to Ryan White Care Act (February 2007)

Seminar on Land Value Property Taxation (January 2007)

HUD Posts General Section of 2007 SuperNOFA On Website (January 2007)

HUD To Host The First Town Hall Meeting (October 2006)

Annual Meeting Notice (September 2006)

GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION PROGRAM (August 2006)

TD Banknorth Charitable Foundation (August 2006)

So You're The Board Chair, NOW WHAT? (July 2006)

Erie Canal Greenway Grant Program (July 2006)

Step-by-step Guide to Getting Financial Assistance (July 2006)

Small Cities TA NOFA Announced (July 2006)

Flood Aftermath Assistance (June 2006)

Field Guide for Clean-Up of Flooded Home (June 2006)

Preservation Tax Credits Will Spur Investment In New York State's Historic Buildings (June 2006)

Appropriations bill setting funding levels for HUD programs (June 2006)

National Homeownership Month, 2006  (June 2006)

Niagara County Main Street Workshop (May 2006)

525 NOFA Deadline Issued (April 2006)

LAST CALL: nominate your affordable housing project (April 2006)

Non Profit Management Workshop Scheduled (April 2006)

Call for Action Creating Independence in Housing for Persons with Developmental Disabilities
 (May 2006)

Brownfields: A Goldmine in Your Neighborhood  (March 2006)

TURN UP THE HEAT FOR HOUSING  (March 2006)

HUD Releases 2006 SuperNOFA (March 2006)

Governor Approves New State QAP   (February 2006)

Budget Testimony 2006 (Februrary 2006)

Budget proposes to cut rural rental housing (Februrary 2006)
 

RHC is archiving older news briefs. For articles appearing prior to January  2004, click here.

Restore NY is a program designed to encourage economic development and neighborhood growth by
providing municipalities with financial assistance for revitalization of commercial and
residential properties.

ESDC is making $100 million available for Round 2 grants and soliciting proposals from
municipalities for competitive review. Restore NY Request for Proposals and Applications will
be posted on this website and made available for download on July 27th, 2007.

Empire State Development Regional Directors will hold a series of Restore NY workshops
beginning the week of July 30th, 2007 for municipalities. The complete schedule of workshop
locations for each region will be posted on July 27th.

2007 Restore NY Round 2 Timeline:

July 27th Applications Posted on website 
July 30th Regional Workshops Begin 
August 20th Letters of Intent Due (Document found in Application) 
September 28th Applications Due 
For more information about this program, contact your regional office at the phone numbers
below or email restoreny@empire.state.ny.us.

Capital Regional Office
Phone: 518-270-1130 

Central New York Regional Office
Phone: 315-425-9110 

Finger Lakes Regional Office
Phone: 585-325-1944 

Long Island Regional Office
Phone: 631-435-0717 

Mid-Hudson Regional Office
Phone: 845-567-4882 

Mohawk Valley Regional Office
Phone: 315-793-2366 

New York City Regional Office
Phone: 212-803-3130

North Country Regional Office (Essex, Clinton, and Franklin Counties) 
Phone: 518-561-5642 

North Country Regional Office (Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties) 
Phone: 315-785-7907 

Southern Tier Regional Office
Phone: 607-721-8605 

Western New York Regional Office
Phone: 716-856-8111

HUD will sponsor a webcast training on Tuesday, September 18th at 1:00 PM on New Construction Techniques.  Visit www.hud.gov/webcasts/index.cfm to view the webcast.

Sponsored by the HUD Buffalo, New York Field Office. 

This FREE seminar will include topics such as: The new FHA Appraisal Protocols, Lender Insurance, Streamline 203k program, Energy Efficient Mortgages, HECM (Reverse Mortgages), etc. Quality Assurance and REO topics will also be covered. 

Presenters will be staff from the Philadelphia Homeownership Center (HOC). 

When: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 
Where: Center for Tomorrow 
University at Buffalo North Campus 
Service Center Road 
Amherst, New York14221 
Phone: (716) 645-6906 

Event Time: 9:00am - 4:30pm 
(Registration Time: 8:30am to 9:00am) 

Directions: From Interstate - 290, exit at Millersport Hwy North and immediately merge to the extreme left lane. Turn left at the traffic signal on to Flint Road. Proceed on Flint Road, whcih crosses over Maple Road and enter the University at Buffalo (UB) North Campus. At the first intersection, turn left on Service Center Road. The Center for Tomorrow is a low-rise building located on the left. Turn right into the free parking lot directly across from the building. 

Register by July 24th at http://www.hud.gov/event_registration/index_2.cfm?eventID=618

 H.R. 2895, the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund Act of 2007, was introduced on
June 28, 2007 by House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) and 16 bipartisan
original co-sponsors:

 Maxine Waters (D-CA)
 Gary G. Miller (R-CA)
 Jim Ramstad (R-MN)
 Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY)
 John M. McHugh (R-NY)
 Phil English (R-PA)
 Al Green (D-TX)
 Christopher Shays (R-CT)
 Christopher S. Murphy (D-CT)
 Charles W. Dent (R-PA)
 Barbara Lee (D-CA)
 Rick Renzi (R-AZ)
 William Lacy Clay (D-MO)
 Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ)
 Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA)
 Rubén Hinojosa (D-TX)

This is an extraordinary statement about the bipartisan recognition of the affordable housing
crisis and your ability to bring attention to the need for federal action.

 NHTF endorsers are urged to contact their Member of Congress immediately to ask him or her to
become a co-sponsor of H.R. 2895 today. A strong showing of bipartisan co-sponsorship will help
move the bill through the House quickly.

 Please use this toll free number, 877-210-5351, for the congressional switchboard and ask to
be connected to the housing staffer for your representative's office. You can also click on the
blue "Take Action" link above to enter your zip code and find your  representative's number.
 Please email us at outreach@nlihc.org to let us know the outcome of  your call. And thank you
for your support!

 The next legislative action on the bill will be a hearing in the full Financial Services
Committee on July 12 at 10:00 am, in Room 2128 of the Rayburn House Office Building. For a
summary and materials to help you make your case to your Member of Congress, go to
www.nhtf.org.

 To better support its mission, the foundation awards most of   its grants by directly soliciting proposals from high-performing  nonprofit organizations with the demonstrated ability to create
 strong partnerships, impact multiple communities, and leverage  grant resources. In order to identify potential future nonprofit  partners or respond to unique community revitalization opportun-
 ities, a limited amount of funding is set aside to be awarded  through a competitive process.

 Preference is given to proposals that include community engage ment that result in the production, preservation, or financing  of housing units for low- to moderate-income families that  address as many of the following considerations as possible:  resource efficiency in design, construction, and operations;  mitigation of the depletion of natural resources, including  timber and water; inclusion of landscaping features such as  trees and shrubs that minimize demand for water and synthetic 
 chemicals and reduce the heat-island effect; reduction of main tenance costs using innovative and durable materials; incorporation of more environmentally friendly building materials; site 
 planning with minimal environmental impact; energy-efficiency  and use of renewable energy; indoor air quality improvement,  including moisture control and proper ventilation; and smart  site planning and land use.

 The foundation awards grants to eligible nonprofits three times  a year. The next deadline for Letters of Inquiry is July 1, 2007.

 Complete program information, an FAQ, and an eligibility test  are available at the foundation's Web site.

HUD has released the 2007 SuperNOFA covering many of the housing funding programs for the year, including Housing Counseling, RHED, Continuum of Care and many others.  To view, see NOFA online.

Enterprise Community Partners has announced a resource that might be useful in your work. 

Applications for Green Communities™ Grants up to $50,000 are being accepted until Feb. 23rd for a mix of project hard and soft costs.  For more info and applications:  http://www.greencommunitiesonline.org/planningGrants.asp

Feel free to be in touch with questions, comments, etc.  The full range of Enterprise resources can seen at: http://www.enterprisecommunity.org/

 For more information, contact:
Brien R. O'Toole 
Director, Albany Program Office
Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. 
Phone: 518-427-0670 
Fax: 518-463-1636 
www.enterprisecommunity.org 
 
 

On December 6th, a notice was posted in the Federal Register proposing a major policy change to the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act. The policy revision, scheduled to take effect on March 1, would impose a 24-month lifetime cumulative  cap on emergency and transitional housing assistance through the act. The Ryan White dollars devoted to housing,  while small in relation to total CARE Act funding, are critical resources in communities that have identified housing  needs as critical. More than three quarters of Ryan White grantees use some portion of their grants for housing.

The proposed change to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) housing policy would: create a cumulative lifetime cap of 24 months per person for emergency and transitional housing assistance with CARE funds; not establish an appeals process for grantees to HRSA or clients to local and state grantees for medical 
necessity; apply to the first 24 months after the implementation of the policy, regardless of how long a client had received this service prior to March 2007. 

The Federal Register notice can be found at:
http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20061800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2006/E6-20556.htm

Comments on notice 71 FR 70781 are due to HRSA by February 5.

 "Land Value Taxation: How, Why and Where It's Used" will be given on Friday, January 26th at 10:00 AM in Room L-3, Lawrence Hall, Williams College in Williamstown, Mass.  The address is 15 Lawrence Hall Drive, with  parking nearby.  We expect the talk and questions to end around 12:00 PM. Land Value Taxation (LVT) has been credited by 2006 US Mayor of the Year, Stephen Reed, with being an essential tool in transforming Harrisburg from a 
fiscally ailing city to a fiscally sound and stable city with an increasing commercial tax base and a revived downtown. http://www.harrisburgpa.gov/pressReleases/prArchives/2006/12-6/world%20mayor.htm

In a typical city that uses LVT, good uses of land are incentivized with lowered tax bills for most homeowners and large employers because tax rates on buildings and improvements are lowered.  Absenteeism, land speculation and vacancy are discouraged by higher tax rates on land.  LVT complements government efforts to spur investment and infill redevelopment.
 For example: Instead of a tax rate of 2.95% tax rates are 10.3% on land values and .0432% on buildings in Clairton, Pennsylvania.  This measure is revenue-neutral.

If you Have Questions:
 Joshua Vincent, Director
 Center for the Study of Economics
 1518 Walnut Street, Suite 604
 Philadelphia, Pa 19102 USA
www.urbantools.org <http://www.urbantools.org/>
 215.545.6004

The Annual Meeting of the NYS Rural Housing Coalition will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at The Radisson Hotel-Utica Centre, 200 Genesee Street, Utica, New York, beginning at 12:30 PM. The meeting is open to the public, and will include election of members of the Board of Directors.

"I am pleased to announce the Restore NY initiative, as it will prove to be a tremendous success for our economy and for our quality of life," Governor Pataki said. "The revitalization and rehabilitation of these properties will create opportunities for business growth and community improvement. New investment and construction will be spurred and development and jobs will result. This is a win for our working families, for visitors to New York State, and for our economy and future." 

In the 2006-07 enacted New York State Budget, Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) received a $300 million appropriation to implement the Restore NY Communities Initiative or the "Restore NY Initiative" to help revitalize neighborhoods, and leverage private sector investment as a means to retain and attract residents and businesses. 

Empire State Development Chairman Charles A. Gargano said, "Governor Pataki's leadership continues to move New York State towards a bright and successful future. Restore NY will help our state to revitalize and improve distressed areas, creating a more competitive business environment and a better place to live. This program is huge news for our state and our economy." 

Restore NY Initiative will fund municipally-sponsored projects for the rehabilitation or reconstruction in vital urban centers across the state. Municipalities will submit proposals to ESDC for funding under a specific set of criteria. 

To the extent possible, funding will be awarded in a geographically proportionate manner based on the qualified applications received. Special consideration will be given to projects located in Brownfield Opportunity Areas or Empire Zones; those affected by
recent and unusual flooding in June 2006 and designated as a federally declared disaster area; and communities with severe economic distress and/or dislocation. 

The Governor has directed that ESD officials conduct meetings with local officials throughout the State to discuss and explain further the Restore NY Initiative. These meetings will commence next week. More information is available by visiting www.nylovesbiz.com.

RESTORE NY COMMUNITIES INITIATIVE WORKSHOPS CAPITAL DISTRICT REGION
August 15, 2006 - 10:30 a.m.
W. A. Harriman State Office Campus
Building 7A - 1st Floor
Albany, New York 12226 

CENTRAL NY REGION 
August 18, 2006 - 10:00 a.m
John Hughes State Office Building
Main Hearing Room - First Floor
333 East Washington Street
Syracuse, New York 13202 

FINGER LAKES REGION 
August 15, 2006 - 9:00 a.m.
Genesee Community College BEST Center
Conable Technology Building
Room T102 (Lecture Hall)
Batavia, New York 14020

August 15, 2006 - 2:30 p.m. 
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
Library Building
Geneva Room, Second Floor
Geneva, New York 14604
(Parking in Medbury parking lot on Pulteney Street)

August 16, 2006 - 11:00 a.m.
Rochester City Council Chambers
Rochester City Hall
Room 302A
30 Church Street
Rochester, New York 14604

LONG ISLAND REGION 
August 16, 2006 - 8:30 a.m.
Farmingdale State University of New York
Gleason Hall 202 Lecture Room
2350 Broadhollow Road
Farmingdale, New York 11735 

MOHAWK VALLEY REGION 
August 21, 2006 - 2:00 p.m.
Utica State Office Building
1st Floor Conference Room A
207 Genesee Street
Utica, New York 13501

MID-HUDSON REGION 
August 16, 2006 - 10:00 a.m.
Orange County Government Center
Legislative Chambers (3rd Floor)
255 Main Street
Goshen, New York 10924

NORTH COUNTRY REGION
August 15, 2006 - 2:00 p.m.
Dulles State Office Building
First Floor - Conference Room #1
317 Washington Street
Watertown, New York 13601

August 18, 2006 - 3:00 p.m.
County Government Center
1st Floor Community Meeting Room, Suite 208
137 Margaret Street
Plattsburgh, New York 12901

SOUTHERN TIER REGION
August 15, 2005 - 10:00 a.m.
State Office Building
18th Floor Community Center
44 Hawley Street
Binghamton, New York 13901

WESTERN NY REGION 
August 17 - 11:00 a.m.
Mahoney State Office Building
65 Court Street
Buffalo, New York 14202

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TD Banknorth Charitable Foundation
2006 Housing for Everyone 
Grant Competition

• the project must address housing needs of very low-, low- and moderate-income individuals and families;
• the proposal must demonstrate a measurable increase in the availability of affordable housing or increase the opportunity for households to obtain affordable housing;
• the proposed project or program, shall be a new or start-up (in operation less than 6 months) program

Organizations are eligible for funding from the foundation once per calendar year. 

Please contact either Chris Traczyk at 860-612-2721 or Tara Williams at 201- 236-2605 if you
have questions.
 
 

Six (6) copies of the grant application and all attachments must be post-marked by August 18, 2006. Hand-delivered copies must be delivered to the Canal Corporation headquarters office, c/o Mimi Allen, 200 Southern Boulevard, Albany, New York, by the close of business on August 18, 2006. 

Go to www.canals.state.ny.us/news/grant.html for more info.

Here is a step-by-step guide to make the process go smoothly. If you have tips or information we can share to ease others through the process, please let us know by e-mailing Michelle Terry at mterry@pressconnects.com, calling her at 607-798-1186, or writing
to us at P.O. Box 1270, Binghamton, N.Y. 13902-1270.

What assistance is available?

The state of New York will give individuals and businesses a grant of up to $5,000. The grant does not have to be repaid and can be used for rebuilding your home and other documented flood losses not covered by insurance or other government programs.

How can I apply?

You have three options for getting help from the state's Individual and Family Grant Program:
 

Call 1-888-7-NYS-AID (1-888-769-7243).

Fill out an application online at www.labor.state.ny.us.

Visit one of the state Disaster Assistance Service Centers, which are open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The center locations are:

- Binghamton: Binghamton High School, 31 Main St., Binghamton.

- Endwell: Fire Station, 3508 Country Club Road, Endwell.

- Otsego County: SUNY Campus, Lee Hall, Ravena Parkway, Oneonta.

- Delaware County: Walton High School, 47-49 Stockton Ave., Walton; Sidney Civic Center, Liberty Street, Sidney; Walton High School, Walton.

- Tioga County: Owego-Apalachin Middle School, 3 Sheldon Guile Boulevard, Owego.

- Chenango County: Bainbridge Municipal Building, West Main Street, Bainbridge.

Anyone with questions should call 687-6265.

Here's what you'll need

* Your name, address and telephone number.

* Social Security number.

* A description of the loss and the eligible project costs as a result of the flooding.
 

For residents, eligible costs can include, but are not limited to:

- Insurance deductibles.

- The difference between insurance coverage and actual replacement costs or repair of a primary residence or personal possessions.

- Temporary or emergency housing costs.

- Demolition, debris removal and disposal, and other costs associated with cleaning and salvaging personal possessions.

* An estimate of total loss, even if greater than $5,000 (the maximum grant amount).

* Proof of ownership. This can include a recorded deed, mortgage statement, lease, real property tax bill, or other proof of residence deemed acceptable by the state Department of Labor.

* The applicant's proof of loss. Documentation should include one of the following:

- A damage report of an estimate from a contractor, engineer, insurance claim adjuster, government agency or person deemed acceptable by the state Department of Labor for eligible project costs.

- An invoice that documents the nature of loss and eligible project costs.

- A letter of denial of coverage from applicant's insurer for eligible project costs, or other document deemed acceptable by the state Department of Labor. All documents or reports must directly relate to damage or destruction caused by flooding.

- A completed, signed and dated certification.

Businesses applying for assistance will need to provide the items above, plus:

* Description of business.

* The applicant's proof of business operation or proof of ownership, which can include a filed "doing business as" form, certificate of incorporation filed with the secretary of state, a federal or state tax identification number, or any other form or document deemed acceptable by the state Department of Labor. The documentation must show the business was in operation at the time of the flooding.

* A description of the loss, which can include, but is not limited to, things necessary to replace or mitigate damage to real property, machinery and equipment. It cannot include compensation for revenue or income lost as a result of disruption in business due to the
storm.

* The number of full-time employees at the applicant's place of business at the time of the flooding.

Filing the application: What happens next?

• Hard-copy applications can be mailed to the New York State Department of Labor, P.O. Box 1279, Albany, N.Y. 12201-1279. Applications must be postmarked by Tuesday, Sept. 5.
• Gov. George E. Pataki has the option to extend the deadline for an additional 30 days, if he chooses.
• If you register online or by phone, you will need to send copies of documentation the application asks for. Do not send originals.
• An inspector will come to your home and certify the loss.
• If you are deemed eligible for assistance, you will receive a check from the state.

What is available?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will provide eligible households with grants of up to $27,200 that can be used to cover flood-related expenses, including replacing destroyed homes, temporary housing such as apartment rental or mobile homes, repairs
not covered by insurance, personal property losses such as vehicles, and some medical expenses.

How can I apply?

You have three options to register and begin the process of receiving aid from FEMA:

* Call 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362).

* Fill out an application online at ww.fema.gov.

* Apply in person at Susquehanna Valley High School or Walton High School from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily .

What information will they want?

* Your Social Security number.

* A description of your losses.

* Information about the type(s) of insurance coverage you have.

* Directions to your property.

* A telephone number where you can be contacted.

* Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) direct-deposit information (institution name, type of account, routing and account number) if you prefer to have funds sent to your account.

* Proof of ownership and occupancy.

Where does my application go from here?

If a site inspection is required to process your application, an inspector will contact you within 10 days to two weeks of applying for help. You must have proof of ownership and occupancy to show the inspector.

Within about 10 days to two weeks of the inspector's visit, you will receive a letter from FEMA with the decision on your request. If you are eligible for funding, the letter will explain how you can use the money. If you are not eligible, the letter will give the reason for the denial and information about your appeal rights. If you are referred to the Small Business Administration for help, you will receive an SBA application.

FEMA's goal is to get money in your hands within 30 days.

Thanks to the good folks at Pressconnects.com for this valuable information.

For more information, visit: http://www.nysmallcities.com/uploads_wms/2006TANOFA.pdf

In the aftermath of the terrible flooding in New York and other northeastern states, the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Northeast Office would like to offer the relevant materials and information developed in response to hurricane relief work in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast over the past year.  To support the broad network of preservationists in the affected areas in efforts to salvage as many historic properties as possible, please distribute this information to those who can use it.  The National Trust would be happy to provide further information and assistance, as well - (617) 523-0885. 

While floodwaters can cause significant damage to historic buildings, they do not spell the end.  In our region, many of the affected buildings have stood the test of time and have survived other floods and severe weather.  With proper cleaning and drying out procedures, the only reminder of floodwaters in historic structures should be a watermark and date on the wall.  Here are several key actions property owners should take:

• After a building has been saturated, once the floodwaters recede and it is safe to return, it is important that the drying process begin immediately. Most of the damaging effects of water, such as rot, rust, and spalling, can be minimized by reducing both interior arid exterior moisture levels.  The least damaging method for drying out a building is natural ventilation--open the doors and windows, and if safe, dehumidifiers and fans can also be used.  Although tempting, do not use heat!  Warm, moist environments encourage mold and fungal growth. 

• Use caution when pumping water from basements.  This water may be providing the necessary pressure to balance the hydrostatic pressure of the groundwater. If the groundwater level is higher than your basement floor and you pump the water from your basement, the foundation walls could be pushed inward and collapse.  If your basement is flooded with several feet of water and you are reasonably certain that your floor drains are operational, you can assume that the groundwater table is high. It is advisable to leave the water in place until the groundwater table sinks and the water recedes by itself. If your basement contains only a few inches of water, however, you may be able to pump it out safely. Keep in mind that if the groundwater level is higher than the floor, the water will return. 

• Even if you cannot pump the water out of the basement, consult with local health officials to determine if there is any sanitizing agent that can be used to treat standing water in the basement. 

• To avoid needless condemnation and demolition of buildings, it is important to ensure that people with expertise in preservation of historic buildings conduct the building assessments.  Contact the New York State Historic Preservation Office at (518) 237-8643, and the Preservation League of New York State at (518) 462-5658 for lists of preservation consultants and tradespeople. 

A checklist and much more detailed information is available in the booklet, “Treatment of Flood-Damaged Older and Historic Buildings,” available online as a PDF at http://www.nationaltrust.org/hurricane/files/flood_booklet.pdf.  An
updated version of the booklet can be ordered free of charge at  http://www.preservationbooks.org/. 

Additional flood-related resources and funding sources from the National Trust, FEMA, and other organizations can be found at: http://www.nationaltrust.org/hurricane/resources.html. 

The National Park Service has a series of helpful briefs on a wide range of topics relating to repairing historic structures available to view and print free of charge at http://www.cr.nps.gov/hps/tps/publications.htm. 

Please contact the Northeast Office at 617-523-0885 for more information. 
 
 

The instructional guide documents a protocol that was tested on four homes in New Orleans . In a home that experienced at least five feet of standing water for at least two weeks and had mold growth up to the ceiling, the protocol reduced the mold to non-detectable levels. Once the mold is treated in this way, the flooded areas of a home can be renovated in the usual way.But with the proper precautions, many flooded homes can be saved. In most scenarios in mild-to-moderately damaged structures, mold-infested debris and building materials can be removed and the structure decontaminated/made safe for rebuilding for about $3 to $4 a square foot. Homes with three feet of flooding will cost between $32,000 and $47,000 to fully repair after decontamination; homes with six feet of flooding will cost between $78,000 and $120,000 to fully repair after decontamination,
 
 

"This legislation will undoubtedly prove one of the most effective programs in New York State for the revitalization of historic residential neighborhoods and downtown commercial districts," said Jay DiLorenzo, President of the Preservation League. "We applaud the Assembly and Senate for recognizing the significant community and economic benefits of this program, a long-sought-after priority of the Preservation League and our Colleague organizations throughout the state."

Under this legislation, State and National Register-listed owner-occupied residential structures in distressed areas are eligible for a New York State Income Tax credit covering 20% of exterior rehabilitation costs, up to a credit value of $25,000. Approximately 11,000 historic residential structures are qualified statewide, primarily in urban neighborhoods.

The bill also includes incentives for historic commercial properties. National Register-listed or -eligible commercial properties that qualify for the Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit would qualify for an additional New York State Income Tax Credit, covering 30% of rehabilitation costs, up to a credit value of $100,000. 

"Municipalities throughout the state will be able to utilize these programs to attract significant new private investment to their downtown neighborhoods, "said Daniel Mackay, Director of Public Policy for the Preservation League. "These programs provide a financial incentive that will steer residential and commercial development back to the historic cores of communities, and assist with the preservation of open space and working farmland."

The mayors of Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga Springs, Hudson and New York joined the League in calling for legislative passage of this program this year.

According to the League, the two rehabilitation credits will have a significant impact on community renewal in New York State. The residential rehabilitation program will provide a first-ever financial incentive for homeowners and homebuyers for upkeep and stewardship of historic homes. The commercial tax credit offers a financial incentive that complements an existing federal program for historic structures, likely attracting additional projects to the 
federal program. This will provide enhanced opportunity for the financing of smaller projects, such as along New York State's Main Streets, the Erie Canal Corridor and other waterfront communities.

Still, some preservation advocates wish the legislation went further. "While we appreciate that the Legislature has assisted a limited group of homeowners with preservation tax credits, we hope that this is just a first step and that future sessions will allow a wider application," said Peg Breen, President of The New York Landmarks Conservancy. 

"This investment in the restoration of significant historic buildings will help preserve our rich architectural heritage while revitalizing communities across the state," said Kent Barwick, 
President of the Municipal Art Society of New York. "We look forward to working with the Legislature to expand this program to even more properties in New York City and throughout New York."

"Studies show that rehabilitation spending reinvigorates business districts and neighborhoods, stimulates construction activity, job creation, and tax revenues, and is proven to outpace the economic benefits of new construction in local and regional economies," said Mackay. "We expect that local tradespeople, architectural professionals, and hardware suppliers will benefit as a result."

"Nationally, twenty-one states provide rehabilitation tax credits for commercial and/or residential historic properties," said DiLorenzo. "Thanks to the leadership of Assemblymembers Ron Canestrari, Sam Hoyt, and Pete Grannis; and Senators Vincent 
Leibell, Frank Padavan, and Catherine Young, New Yorkers will now have preservation tax credits to help make and keep our communities great places to live."

• $1.536 billion for McKinney Homeless Assistance Grants– the President’s request – an increase of $209 million over last year’s level. 
• Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (Section 8 vouchers) is funded at $15.8 billion, $358 million over last year and $144 million below the budget request. 
• Project-Based Rental Assistance (project-based contracts) is funded at $5.5 billion, $438 million above last year and $200 million below the request. 
• Provides $4.2 billion for the Community Development Fund. HOME Investments 
• Partnership is level funded at $1.9 billion, $159 million above the FY06 enacted level. 
• Includes $735 million for Housing for the Elderly (HUD202), $189 million above the President’s request $237 million for Housing for Persons with Disabilities (Section 811), $118 million above the requested levels. 

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National Homeownership Month, 2006

 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America 

 Owning a home is an important part of the American dream. During National Homeownership Month, we raise  awareness of homeownership and encourage more Americans to consider the benefits of owning their own  home. 

 Nearly 70 percent of Americans enjoy the satisfaction of owning their own home, and my Administration  continues to promote an ownership society where the promise of America reaches all our citizens. The  American Dream Downpayment Act of 2003 is helping thousands of low to moderate income and minority  families with downpayment and closing costs, which represent the greatest barrier to homeownership. Since  2002, when I announced our goal to help 5.5 million minorities become homeowners by the end of this decade,
 the rate of minority homeownership has climbed above 50 percent, and more than 2.5 million minority families  have become new homeowners. My Administration will continue to provide counseling and assistance for new  homebuyers and expand homeownership opportunities for all Americans. 

 During National Homeownership Month and throughout the year, we applaud the men and women who work to  achieve the dream of homeownership, and we are grateful for those who provide counseling, lending, real  estate, construction, and other services to these individuals. The hard work, financial discipline, and personal  responsibility of our country's homeowners help transform neighborhoods throughout our Nation and reflect the  best qualities of America. 

 NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the  authority vested in me by the Constitution of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim June 2006 as  National Homeownership Month. I call upon the people of the United States to join me in building a more  hopeful society and recognizing the importance of expanding the ownership of homes across our great Nation.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of May, in the year of our Lord two  thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth. 

 GEORGE W. BUSH 

WHAT: The public is invited to attend a FREE specialized training session on strategies for making the most of upper floors in downtown commercial districts. The Preservation League of New York State will offer a workshop titled: Enhancing Main Street: Making Upper Floors Work Again.

WHO: 
Tania Werbizky: Director, Technical & Grant Programs, Preservation League of New York State, Albany
Mayor Lawrence Soos: City of North Tonawanda
Mayor Ronald Pilozzi: City of Tonawanda
Paul D. Flach: Executive Director, Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas
Eric Bradshaw: Code Compliance Specialist, New York State Department 
of State, Codes Division, Albany & Albion
Clinton Brown: Clinton Brown Company / ReBuild, Buffalo
Andrea Rebeck: Architect, Bero Architecture, Rochester

WHEN: Thursday, May 11, from 6:15 – 9:00 p.m. 

WHERE: North Tonawanda City Hall
216 Payne Avenue
North Tonawanda, NY 

The workshop is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Refreshments will be served. For additional information or to register, contact Sandy Wurl at 716-695-8580 ext. 516. The registration deadline is Thursday, May 4. The program is sponsored by the Preservation League of New York State and made possible through the generous support of The
Margaret L. Wendt Foundation. 

Rural Development has issued a NOFA for the Section 525 program. Applications are due on May 17th. The  525 program supports housing counseling services with a focus on foreclosure prevention for RD mortgages.  This program has been funded sporadically in the past, so this opportunity may not come around again soon.  For more information, vising www.rurdev.usda.gov/rd/nofas.

Do you know of a project that has what it takes to win?

 If you have done an outstanding affordable housing project or know of  one that should be recognized, Affordable Housing Finance magazine  wants to hear about it. We are searching for the best affordable  housing developments in the nation that were completed in 2005 or will
 be completed in 2006.

 The finalists will be published in the August 2006 issue; Affordable  Housing Finance readers will then vote for the winner in each category,  with extensive coverage on the winners published in the November 2006  issue. The winners will be presented with awards at AHF Live: The Tax  Credit Developers’ Summit Nov. 1-3 in Chicago. Each category winner  will receive complimentary conference registration. The grand prize  winner will also receive $5,000 to benefit the project and its tenants.

 Don't delay, the deadline for nomination forms is May 1. Go to http://www.housingfinance.com/ahf/index.html to download the nomination form as well as view the judging criteria.

 Please send your nomination materials to Christine Serlin, executive  editor. Fax to (415) 315-1248 or mail to Alexander & Edwards  Publishing, Inc., 111 Sutter St., Suite 975, San Francisco, CA 94104.

 For more information, please e-mail christine@housingfinance.com.

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Non Profit Management Workshop Scheduled

Join Ed McMillan, CPA, CAE, best selling author and nationally known speaker and learn how to AVOID The Top 85+  Things That Can Bite Not For Profit Executives in the Behinds and Ruin Their Day on June 1, 2006 from 9 AM – 3  PM.  Location TBA. 
 

Learn how to avoid an IRS Audit and how to handle one if you have to, understand board fiduciary responsibilities and liabilities, the importance of proper internal controls to avoid embezzlement, and more! 
 

Investment is $99.00 for both members and not-yet-members.  Register four people and receive a fifth registration at no cost! 
 

Loretta L. Rankin
Director of Marketing and Communication
The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County
Phone: (518) 371-7748
Fax: (518) 371-5025
www.southernsaratoga.org 

A Call for Action Creating Independence in Housing for Persons with Developmental Disabilities.

How many times have you attended a conference, discussed the issues and even heard of potential solutions then left wondering if anything would ever change?  Are you tired of talking and want to take some action?  If so, here is your opportunity.

This conference is designed to talk more about the solutions, gain real commitments from those in attendance and to begin to make the changes necessary so that persons with developmental disabilities can truly gain independence.

From the special speakers we have assembled, you will hear and see some of the solutions available today.  Then for each of eight breakout sessions, we have invited state, county and local experts to share a discussion with you about the obstacles, potential solutions and gain support for the establishment of community task forces committed to take action.

So, please, join us for stimulating discussions and the opportunity to make a real commitment for change.  This conference is free, but space is limited.  You must make your reservations by April 17, 2006.  Call Karen Delaney at 517- 2161 to pre-register.   Once registration is closed, you will receive a letter confirming your registration and session selections.
As you can see, this will be much more than just a conference it’s 
A Call for Action !
Click here for a brochure.

Thank  You

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Brownfields: A Goldmine in Your Neighborhood 

Every February, Neighborhood Preservation Companies (NPCs), Rural Preservation Companies (RPCs), and other community-based housing organizations flock to the New York State Capitol to fight for housing dollars. While the NPC and RPC programs are truly important, community-based housing organizations should look beyond dwindling DHCR and HUD programs to keep their doors open and fund their mission of providing affordable housing. Many of our colleagues in the affordable housing industry have yet to discover sources of funding that are almost entirely free!

The answer could be right there in your own communities. Are there any vacant or underutilized properties in your neighborhood? Could any of these properties be vacant because of contamination or perceived contamination? Are there known properties with limited contaminants? Are there major contaminated sites to be considered? If you have answered yes to any or all of these questions, then what you have are “brownfield” sites or suspected brownfield sites. “Brownfields” are defined as vacant or underutilized properties, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of one or more hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. 

Brownfields have been receiving a great deal of attention from both state and federal agencies. In 2005 alone, the NYS Department of State/Department of Environmental Conservation awarded $30 million in grants to 53 communities across New York State under the Brownfields Opportunity Area Program (BOA) and Technical Assistance Grants (TAGs), created as part of the historic Superfund and Brownfields Law enacted in 2003. The funds were awarded to help local communities develop strategies to cleanup and reuse brownfields, as well as assist in the redevelopment of brownfields. Three NPCs - Wyandanch Community Development Corporation, Carroll Gardens Association, and St. Nicholas Neighborhood Preservation Corporation, were recipients of BOA awards in 2005.

On the contrary, brownfields could be the vehicle for NPCs, RPCs and other community-based organizations to fulfill their mission. The Department of State’s Brownfield Opportunity Areas (BOA) Program was designed to assist communities foster redevelopment and return dormant and blighted properties into productive uses that will serve as economic catalysts in their communities. The BOA program provides municipalities and community-based organizations with resources to establish revitalization plans and implementation strategies for areas affected by a concentration of brownfield sites. The remarkable thing about the BOA Program is that 90% of project costs are funded and the 10% match could be in kind!

The BOA program comprises of 3 steps: 1) Step 1 Pre-Nomination Study enables a community to complete a preliminary analysis of issues and opportunities in the proposed Brownfield Opportunity Area so communities can gain a basic understanding about existing conditions, brownfields and the area's potential for revitalization. 2) Step 2 Nomination provides an in-depth and thorough description and analysis, including an economic and market trends analysis of existing conditions, opportunities, and reuse potential for properties located in the proposed Brownfield Opportunity Area with an emphasis on the identification and reuse potential of brownfield sites that are catalysts for revitalization. For example, the market analysis for the Via Ponte BOA District in the City of Amsterdam identified a mix of uses to include affordable senior housing, market-rate condominiums, retail, restaurants, cultural, office, and recreational uses. 3) Step 3 Implementation Strategy provides a description of the techniques and actions to implement the area-wide plan and describes how the requirements of the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) have been met.

First, identify an area or district of at least 50 acres with a concentration of vacant and underutilized properties that are suspected of contamination. These properties could include vacant industrial sites or buildings, dry-cleaning shops, or old gas stations. These sites need not be contiguous but could be connected economically or by market. For example, the brownfield program in Niagara County extends across several municipalities. Second, partner with your local government to establish the multi-agency and private-sector partnerships necessary to leverage assistance and investments to revitalize neighborhoods and communities. Some sites may be under foreclosure by your county or under title with your local Industrial Development Agency (IDA)/Economic Development Corporation (EDC). The BOA Program provides “brownie points” for public-private/multi-agency partnerships. Third, approach your local representative. Your assemblyman could be your source of member-item funds for your 10% match, as well as funds for other project components such as roads, trails, or parking. It doesn’t hurt to have the ear of someone who has political clout. Fourth, attend the Department of State application workshops (from March 27th to April 11th in various locations). Visit the Department of State website for more information about the BOA program (http://www.nyswaterfronts.com/BOA_package.asp). This year, grant applications are due May 26th. Last but not least, ask for expert advice.

The BOA Program is just the start. BOA funds will allow your organization plan for the redevelopment; then, comes the actual investigation and remediation. You could secure funds for that purpose from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) under the Environmental Restoration Program (ERP). But that’s another story…

Vilma Heramia was a former staff member of the Neighborhood Preservation Coalition. She is now a Senior Associate with Saratoga Associates. She can be contacted at (518) 587-2550, ext.250; email vheramia@saratogaassociates.com.

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NYS Budget news from Advocates
Rural Advocates

            It’s time to TURN UP THE HEAT for HOUSING.

A sample letter follows.  It doesn’t have to be long, just make the point that we need an increase for RPCs and our State housing programs.  Email me next week with the approximate number of letters you were able to generate.  I need to know if they are hearing about housing every day next week!  Call your Senator to find out if they are hearing about housing. Ask them to contact S.Bruno for you. 

Thank you for your time and effort. 
Nancy

Note: mail or fax copies of your letters to John Bonacic, Chair, Senate Committee on Housing Construction and Community Development, 815 LOB Albany NY  12247 fax 518-426-6948 and Vito Lopez, Chair Assembly Housing Committee, 943 LOB, Albany NY 12248 fax 518-455-5789 as well as your Senator and Assembly representative. 

Dear Senator Bruno:

Thank you for your concern for affordable housing and your efforts to restore the Governor’s budget cut to the Rural Preservation Program. We know you are committed to affordable housing in rural communities and so we want to call your attention to the funding levels for housing.  The Rural Preservation Program has been a flat funded program since 1987.  The buying power of each contract is just about half today as it was in 1987.   We ask that you consider increasing funding for Rural Preservation to $7,500,000.

NYS Housing Programs for rehabilitation and home purchase have allowed us to provide safe, affordable housing in our community but we can do more and we must do more.  Please increase funding for affordable housing in New York State.

Sincerely,

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HUD Releases 2006 SuperNOFA

USDA's 2007 budget is generally consistent with those of the last few
years, but proposes more drastic changes for rental housing.  The budget
for HUD would eliminate the Rural Housing and Economic Development program
and cut funding for the Community Development Block Grant program, although
it does not renew last year's proposal to move CDBG to the Commerce
Department.  It would increase funding for Section 8 tenant-based and
project-based vouchers.

Leslie Strauss
Communications Director, Housing Assistance Council
202-842-8600 ext. 141
leslie@ruralhome.org