PENN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION  Meeting Packet FEBRUARY 22, 2024  7:30 PM  Prepared for the Penn Hills Planning Commission  by Meg Balsamico, Principal Planner  Penn Hills Department of Planning & Economic Development    -  PENN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING  AGENDA FEBRUARY 22, 2024 7:30F PM  CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL  APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES = January 25, 2024  DISCUSSION  1. The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), the HOME Investment Partnerships Program through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium, and the housing, community development and economic development needs of the Municipality of Penn Hills, PA will be discussed. This meeting will be held to discuss the CDBG and HOME Program and an opportunity for citizens to become involved in the development of FY 2024 CDBG Year 50 Annual Action Plan. Information will be utilized by the Municipality for the preparation of the  plan.  Public comments and suggestions are encouraged.  All interested residents are invited to attend. Further information may be obtained Persons with disabilities, requiring accommodations to participate in the proceedings, are requested to call 412-342-1174, 48 hours prior to the meeting to discuss how we may meet your needs. Hearing impaired may contact the Municipality through the State Relay Office at 1-800-654-5984 or 711.  by contacting 412-342-1174.    Legal Advertisement to be published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Local Xtra, (Penn Hills) Edition, on February 8, 2024, and February 15, 2024  LEGAL AD  MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING  On February 22, 2024, the Planning Commission oft the Municipality of Penn Hills will meet at 7:30 PM, in the Penn Hills Municipal Building, Council Chambers,  102 Duff Road, to consider the following:  DISCUSSION  1. The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), the HOME Investment Partnerships Program through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium, and the housing, community development and economic development needs oft the Municipality of Penn Hills, PA will be discussed. This meeting will be held to discuss the CDBG and HOME Program and an opportunity for citizens to become involved in the development of FY 2024 CDBG Year 50 Annual Action Plan. Information will be utilized by the Municipality for the preparation oft the  plan.  All interested residents are invited to attend. Further information may be obtained Persons with disabilities, requiring accommodations to participate in the proceedings, are requested to call 412-342-1174, 48 hours prior to the meeting to discuss how we may meet your needs. Hearing impaired may contact the Municipality through the State Relay Office at 1-800-654-5984 or 711.  by contacting 412-342-1174.    H)  MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS PLANNING DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM  TO: FROM: DATE:  Planning Commission Members Meg Balsamico, Principal Planner MB  February 15, 2024  SUBJECT: FY 2024, YEAR 50, CDBG ACTION PLAN = First Public Hearing  Scheduled for February 22, 2024, Planning Commission Meeting is the first public hearing for the discussion of Penn Hills Community Development Block Grant, (CDBG), Program and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. Each year the Municipality is required tos submit an Annual Action Plan to HUD to receive these funds. The plan describes the housing, community and economic development needs for Penn Hills and the proposed HUD has operated the Community Development Block Grant Program since 1974 which will be the 50th year that the CDBG program has been in operation. Penn Hills qualifies as an entitlement community and has received CDBG funds from the U.S. Department of HUD for the last 50 years. This determination is made based on the population of Penn Hills and The HOME Investment Partnership Program is operated through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium, consisting of Allegheny County as the lead agency, the Municipality of Penn Hills and the City of McKeesport as participants. After determining through Penn Hills Fair Housing Study that there is a need to provide home ownership opportunities to low- and moderate-income persons and families, Penn Hills began the Homebuyers Assistance Program, (HAP) in 2018. This program assists eligible individuals and families with down payment and closing cost assistance. Penn Hills has established a partnership with Action Housing who operates the program for Penn Hills. I have enclosed information and an application for this program. Penn Hills HAP has assisted approximately 70 low- and  projects for the upcoming fiscal year.  on the annual income of its residents.  moderate-income households since 2018.    This year Penn Hills is estimating that we will receive approximately $674,064 in CDBG funding, plus program income in the amount of $35,000, for a total estimated budget of $709,064. In addition, we are estimating that Penn Hills will receive a HOME allocation of approximately $130,495 through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium. lalso have enclosed the Public Hearing Notice for the meeting, the FY 2024 Annual Action Plan Calendar, a copy of the project descriptions from the 2023 CDBG Program, an email from Chris Blackwell to Community Groups and interested residents inviting them to participate in the preparation of the Action Plan, a Comments and Suggestion Form for them to complete and an article from the Tribune Review about the proposed FY 2024 Program for your information. The CDBG projects from 2023 funded Public Service program allocations to three (3) Food Pantries in Penn Hills, the Western Penn Hills Community Action Youth Employment Program, Ruth's Way, and a Housing Counseling Program for administrative costs for the Homebuyers Assistance Program. Other projects funded were the Senior Aid Grant Program, the Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program, the Senior Services Center Handrail Program, the Demolition Program, the Street Reconstruction Program, Accessible Building Improvements and building improvements to the Senior Service Center, the Wm. McKinley Community Center, the Multi-Purpose Center The purpose of this first public hearing is to provide a forum for Penn Hills residents and community organizations to become involved in the development of the plan and to make recommendations for projects for the upcoming program year. The Planning Department  and the Lincoln Park Community Center.  encourages their comments and welcomes their suggestions.  MLB/mb Cc: File    NEEDS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS, PENNSYLVANIA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG). AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS (HOME) PROGRAMS  Notice is hereby given that the Municipality of Penn Hills, Allegheny County, PA will hold a public hearing before the Planning Commission on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 7:30PM, prevailing time, int the Council Chambers, Penn Hills Municipal Building, 102 Duff Road, Penn Hills, PA 15235. If accommodations are needed to participate in the public hearing, please call Mr. Chris Blackwell, Director, Department of Planning and Economic Development, at (412) 342-1173, by email at CBachwel@penohlison. or 711 for the hearing impaired, to The purpose of this public hearing is to discuss the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium, as well as the housing, community and economic development needs of the Municipality of Penn Hills, PA. This information will be utilized by For FY 2024, the Municipality of Penn Hills estimates that it will receive a CDBG entitlement grant in the amount of $674,064, program income of $35,000, and a HOME allocation of approximately $130,4951 through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium. In order to receive these funds, the Municipality of Penn Hills must prepare a One Year Annual Action Plan for the use of the CDBG funds. At least 70% oft the CDBG funds must benefit low and moderate- income persons living in the Municipality. The Municipality will be preparing its CDBG application, and it intends to afford residents, local agencies, and interested parties the The following types of activities may be eligible for funding under the CDBG program: acquisition of property; disposition costs; improvements to public facilities, including the removal of architectural barriers; demolition and environmental clean-up; public services that are new or a quantifiable increase in the level of service; interim assistance; relocation payments for persons displaced as a result of a CDBG activity; rehabilitation of houses; code enforcement; special economic development activities; special activities undertaken by a community based development organization; home ownership assistance for purchase; planning; environmental; program administration; audit; and other miscellaneous activities. Ifthe Municipality would undertake an activity that would result int the displacement of families or individuals, then the Municipality would utilize its policy for minimizing such displacement. Furthermore, the Municipality is responsible for replacing all low and moderate-income housing units that may be demolished or converted as a result of CDBG funds. All interested residents are encouraged to attend this public hearing and they will be given the opportunity to present oral or written testimony concerning the needs of the Municipality of Penn Hills and the use of CDBG and HOME funds to address those needs over the next year. Comments may be addressed to Mr. Chris Blackwell, Director, Department of Planning and Economic Development, 102 Duff Road, Penn Hills, PA 15235; by phone (412).342- 1173; by email at CBchvel@penahlson: or 711 for the hearing impaired.  make arrangements.  the Municipality for the preparation of the FY 2024. Annual Action Plan.  opportunity to become involved in the planning process.  Hon. Pauline Calabrese, Mayor Municipality of Penn Hills, PA    FY2024ANNUAL ACTION PLAN CALENDAR  2/1 Send 1st Notice of Public Hearing advi to PG 2/8 1st Notice of Public Hearing Advr runs 2/22 1st Public Hearing (Planning Commission) 2/29 Send 2nd Notice of Public Hearing adv to PG 3/7 2nd Notice of Public Hearing Adv runs 3/14. Annual Action Plan Draft on display 3/21 2nd Public Hearing (Staff Only) 4/15 Draft off display 4/22 Council vote (Mayor and Council)    PROPOSED  FY2023 Penn Hills CDBG Program  Introduction  As an entitlement grantee community, the Municipality of Penn Hills receives an annual federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The following isa a summary ofthe proposed activities for Year 49( (FY2023). CDBG projects are to be approved by the Penn Hills Mayor and Council after a formal citizen participation process. The first public hearing is scheduled for Thursday March 09, 2023, at 7:00pm and discussion with the public is encouraged. The second public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, March 23, 2023, before the Penn Hills Planning Commission meeting and the date for adoption of the plan by Penn Hills Mayor and Council is scheduled for Monday, April 17, 2023. at 7:00pm. The release of funds takes place following approval oft the Action Plan and approval of environmental reviews by HUD. For FY 2023, the Municipality of Penn Hills estimates that it will receive a CDBG entitlement grant in the amount of $674,064.00, program income of $35,000 for a total budget of $709,064.00, and a HOME allocation of approximately $130,495.00 through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium. In order to receive these funds, the Municipality of Penn Hills must prepare a One Year Annual Action Plan for the use of the CDBG funds. At least 70%ofthe CDBG funds must benefit lowandi moderate-income persons living int thel Municipality. The Municipality will be preparing its CDBG application, and it intends to afford residents, local agencies, and interested parties the opportunity to become involved in the planning process. The order ofthe projects below is placed in the same order as their prospective Penn Hills account numbers. They are not listed in order of importance. The remaining balances from previous program years include funds from the proposed substantial budget amendment. The following  projects will begin immediately upon release of funding.  LPCC. Food Pantry  $10,000.00  This activity is similar to the Penn Hills Service Association and the Jefferson Manor Food Pantry. The Lincoln Park Community Center Inc. isa non-profit citizen-based organization operating the Lincoln Park Community Center located at 7300 Ridgeview Avenue. For many years this building has housed a wide variety of community and family services including a senior room, a gymnasium, a head start program, a satellite library, meeting rooms, and many other activities. The food bank one ofthese many services offered at the Lincoln Park Community Center. A large amount of the Lincoln Park's pantry supply is purchased from the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. The budget is $10,000.00 for 2023. The  FERFAL LPGG  B  is  objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number people that now have new access to food and other items that they could not otherwise afford. $31,576.88 remains from previous  program years for a total of $41,576.88.    Jefferson Manor Food Pantry  $10,000.00  This activity provides funds for a food pantry to serve the residents ofJefferson Manor. The hi-rise units are operated by the Allegheny County Housing Authority, and all occupants are low-income. The residents receive rent subsidiesa and are eligible for food stamp programs but these are deemed to be insufficient. The food pantry supplements  other welfare programs, and by virtue ofits first floor location in the hi-rise  provides a welcome convenience. The budget remains the same for 2023. $11,429.46 remains from previous program years for a total of$21,429.46. The Jefferson Manor Food Pantry is located at 201 Jefferson Road. Performance will be measured by the number of people that now have new access to food and other items that couldn't otherwise afford. Fundraisers for the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank include the Empty Bowls Dinner. (left)  Penn Hills Service Association Food Pantry  $30,000.00  These funds are used to purchase food, clothing, and medical supplies for low-income families on a town- wide basis. The Penn Hills Service Association has been a sub-recipient of Penn Hills Community Development Block Grant funds for many years. They are a well-organized group of volunteers dedicated to helping the needy. They have provided food, clothing, and medical supplies to deserving families for many years. They supplement these CDBG funds with tag days and other fund-raising efforts. Their  PENN HILLS SERVICE ASSOCIATION  headquarters is located at 2519 Main Street ini the Universal Neighborhood, but they serve residents from all parts of the community within their service area. They also purchase supplies for their families from the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank. The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number of people that now have improved access to food and other items that they couldn't otherwise afford. $30,000.00 remains from  previous program years for a total of $60,000.00.  2    Western Penn Hills Community Action  $20,000.00  This program has been operated for the many years by Western Penn Hills Community Action. Low-income youths are employed and put to work on various community projects including cleanup work, landscaping and litter removal. The employees are also provided with mentoring programs designed to broaden the work experience. Local non-profit organizations and the municipality's department directors are: free toi request that the WPHCAa and the employees undertake specific projects in low-income areas. These could  include graffiti removal, litter cleanup, or vegetation control. Recent discussion about the amount of litter in various locations and possible neighborhood projects has generated a request to spend more time on litter clean up and special projects than clearing vegetation from vacant lots in the coming year. Although the program operates out ofthe First Baptist Church in Penn Hills on Chadwick Street, this is a town wide program. The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is sustainability. Performance will be measured by the number of people that now have new access to this program to provide  as suitable living environment.  Ruth's Way  $5,000.00  Ruth's Way is an Achievement Consulting Agency for Adolescent Girls, which strives to empower female youth to achieve their most successful futures possible, despite their past or current situation. Ruth's Way, Inc. is a faith- based, family-operated and family- oriented, nonprofit organization that assists female youth ages 10-17 to achieve their most successful futures possible, despite their past or current  situation. All of their programs and services are carried out from a strengths- based perspective which supports our young ladies and their families being in control of their own processes and outcomes. The National Objective is to benefit limited clientele and the objective is toj provide suitable living environments and outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number of young women that have new access to this program that could not otherwise been able to attend.  3    Housing Counseling Services  $30,000.00  The Penn Hills Homebuyer Assistance Program provides downpayment and closing costs to low-income families for the purchase ofal home in Penn Hills. The program is funded withl HOME funds through ac consortium with Allegheny County and McKeesport. HOME allows up to 10% oft the funding to be used for administration. The sale ofhomes through the Homebuyer Assistance Program requires a significant amount of work to bring a prospective homebuyer to closing. As a result, we will use the full HOME allocation of  $130,495.00 to assist new homebuyers and fund the housing counseling and closing services with CDBG funds. Asofthis date wel have assisted over 60 low-income families in the purchase of a home in Penn Hills at a total cost of $7,026,133.67 and downpayment and closing cost assistance on $583,165.67. The even distribution of homes throughout Penn Hills illustrates that when given an opportunity, low-income families will choose where they want to live.  5238 5233 5235.01  5237,02  5235.02 5236  Single Family Rehabilitation Program  $40,000.00  This program provides 0% loans to qualifying low- income homeowners. Because the interest rates are: SO low at this time, we are considering reducing the interest rate to 0%. Repayment of loans provides an estimated $35,000 of program income each year which isp put back into the program. A matching grant of up to $2,500.00 is available for accessible improvements. We offer this program to low and moderate income homeowners and encourage them to make necessary improvements to their homes. We assist homeowners in the application and bidding process. We process applications, prepare bid specifications and monitor construction through the Municipality's Housing Coordinator. During the life ofthe CDBG program we  have approved, carried out the work, and satisfied over 700 loans. There are currently 80 loans outstanding. The objective is to provide decent housing and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number of families no longer living in substandard housing. $28,958.68 remains in the budget from previous  program years for a total of$ $68,958.68.  4    Senior Aid Rehab  $10,000.00  Funds from this activity will be used to provide $1,000.00 grants to low-income senior citizens to assist them with Rehab activities include accessibility improvements such as grab bars and handrails, electrical upgrades including a new electrical service, and other lower cost items. Foractivities in excess of $1,000.00 the applicant can receive the grant and simply pay the difference. Qualifying participants have taken  EI I upgrades to improve their quality oflife. Typical Senior Aid  advantage of both the single-family rehab program and the Senior Aid Rehab program. Thisi is a very popular program. The objective is toj provide decent housing andt the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number of families no longer living in substandard housing. $19,000.00 remains from previous program years  for a total of$29,000.00.  Senior Handrail Program  $10,000.00  Funds from this activity are used to provide grants to low-income senior citizens to assist  them with upgrades to improve their quality of life. The Senior Service Center operated a successful handrail program for several years before handing it over to the Planning Department. This activity will enhance our already successful rehab programs and assist senior residents in making their homes safer. Funds from this activity were used to install handrails in approximately 40 low-income senior households per year. The objective is to provide decent housing and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the  number of families no longer living in substandard housing. $10,000.00 remains from  previous program years for a total of$20,000.00.  5    Townwide Demolition  $114,064.00  In combination with rehabilitation program, the removal of unsafe and deteriorated structures is a very important part of the Municipality's effort to eliminate slums and blight. When owners of deteriorated structures cannot be located and successfully prosecuted, or when owners are low- income individuals that cannot afford to remove the violation themselves, we will demolish the structure with CDBG funds. Specific guidelines are carried out to attempt to locate the owner or their heirs prior to bidding out the  demolition. Once the property is demolished, a lien is placed on the property sO future recovery ofc costs is possible. This program operates on a town wide basis. These funds can also be used to remove retaining walls, debris, and accessory structures as well as for the  reestablishment of appropriate lawns or vegetation.  Penn Hills expends nearly $100,000.00 per year on the demolition of unsafe structures and will continue to do SO at a similar pace. There is a cap on the amount oft funds to be spent on the demolition. Itis notal low-moda activity. Demolition does not meet the National Objective of benefit to low-mod residents. Although the structures are removed, Penn Hills does not own the land. We are removing a code violation and unsafe condition. Maintenance of the vacant lot is still the responsibility of the landowner. Many  residents in the vicinity ofthese lots would like to see these vacant lots maintained as lawn. Although our specifications require that the contractor fine grade the property and rake to establish a surface suitable for mowing, Penn Hills does not have the resources to mow these lots and there is no ordinance that requires owners of vacant property to maintain it as lawn. In fact, the opposite is true. Land is to remain wooded until a development proposal is approved. As long as no development proposal or building permit is obtained, these sites may return to woodland. This activity qualifies under Removal of Slum and Blight. It is not a low/mod income activity. The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is sustainability. Outcome performance is measured by the number of unsafe structures removed through this activity. $13,381.41 remains from  previous program years for a total of$127,445.41.    Street Reconstruction  $220,000.00  This program is designed to provide street reconstruction in low-income neighborhoods throughout the municipality. We have essentially caught up with deteriorated streets in eligible neighborhoods and can now pave on a standard cycle. Street reconstruction is intended to benefit the quality of life in these neighborhoods by improving the physical environment. These improvements add value totl thel homes int the area and hopefully encourage home ownership, rehabilitation activity, and new  construction. This is not a significant amount of funding when it comes to the cost ofstreet reconstruction. This activity serves low-income areas town-wide. The Superintendent of Public Works and his staffhave identified streets in need of reconstruction and prepared a list for the chart below. The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is sustainability. Performance for this activity will be measured by the number of people that no longer have access to only substandard streets as a result of the improvements. $200,192.00 remains from previous program years for a total of  $420,192.00.  CDBG STREETS FY2023  Street  Termini  Length Census Tract Block %1 Low Mod  Feet  Group  Total  7    Senior Service Center. Improvements  $20,000.00  The Senior Service Center has requested funding for a variety of projects. The Center is located at 147 Jefferson Road in Penn Hills. Each project is given a level of priority by the Director of the Senior Service Center. Priorities include safety and security improvements to the lobby and the replacement of the existing sunken and failing sidewalks that surround the building. The sidewalk project will be completed during the FY2022 Program Year.  EBEA DBBD Luus 9unn  nn  The  objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance in this activity will be measured by the number of people that no longer have access to only a substandard facility as a result of this improvement. $34,047.73 remains from previous program years for ai total of $54,047.73.  William McKinley Improvements  $20,000.00  Thisactivity will fund ongoing improvements at the William McKinley Center. The $20,000.00 proposed for 2023 will be used to provide interior accessible improvements including restrooms. This work is required as part of a Voluntary Compliance Agreement with HUD. The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome isa availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number of people that no longer only have access to a substandard facility as a result of the improvement. $34,197.55 remains from previous program years for a total of$54,197.55.  8    Accessible improvements  $50,000.00  These funds will be used to provide accessible improvements and the remove architectural barriers from municipal buildings and public facilities. This activity isi ini response to amonitoring visit from HUD where various barriers to access municipal buildings were pointed out. The monitoring resulted in a Voluntary Compliance Agreement that requires specific accessible improvements and upgrades be constructed. These funds will be use to make accessible improvements at the William McKinley  Center, Senior Service Center and other public facilities including park improvements. These improvements could include the installation of an elevator to something as simple as a new threshold to provide an accessible route and meet the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards. The Municipal Complex was constructed to meet all ADA and UFAS: requirements. No federal CDBG funds were utilized at the Penn Hills Government Center. The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number ofj people that nol longer have access to a substandard facility as a result ofthe improvement. $106,015.58  remains from previous years for a total of$156,015.58.  Multi-Purpose Center improvements  $20,000.00  These funds will be used to make improvements to the Penn Hills Multi-Purpose Center at 2025 Lincoln Road. Funds from this activity will be used to make additional interior UFAS improvements to the kitchen area. Accessible improvements will include accessible kitchen appliances as required by the Voluntary Compliance Agreement described above. Recent improvements include accessible restrooms,  exterior doors,  thresholds sidewalks and ramps.  The objective is to provide a suitable living environment and the outcome is availability and accessibility. Performance will be measured by the number of people that no longer only have access to a substandard facility as a result of the improvement. $40,897.37 remains from previous program years for a total of$ $68,897.37.  9    General Program Administration  $100,000.00  General Program Administration (GPA) is used for consulting costs, salaries, legal fees, advertising, computer hardware and software, office supplies, salaries, and other administrative costs incurred by the Planning Department in its operation of the CDBG Program. AsaHUD Entitlement Community we are obligated to affirmatively further fair housing. In 2019 we hired the Fair Housing Law Center to assist us in fair housing education and outreach. Funds for this program come from the General Program Administration account. Other incidental costs may be charged to this account including training, travel expenses, and many other special needs related to the administration ofthe program. Penn Hills is permitted to use up to 20% of the CDBG expenditures for administration. Thel FY2023 budget will utilize up to 14% ofthel budget on administration. This means that 86% ofthe Penn Hills CDBG funds is used to accomplish the goals of the CDBG program which is the benefit to low-income people. In the future we anticipate hiring a CDBG Coordinator to administer the CDBG Program. This will allow us to better serve Penn Hills' low-income residents and free up time for the Planning Department staff to focus on grant writing and other planning department functions. $76,349.93 remains  from previous program years for a total of$176,349.93.  Conclusion  The Penn Hills Department of Planning and Economic Development are assigned the primary responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the Penn Hills Community Development Block Grant Program. Thes staffmaintains an ongoing relationship with both sub-recipients and HUD: representatives and maintains project records. Each year with the help of consultants we prepare the Action plan to apply for funding and prepare the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) to: report on the year's expenditures and performance. Both documents are available at www.pennhills.org ori in the Planning Department. Citizen comments and inquiries are encouraged and welcome. Write the Penn Hills DeptofPlanning: and Economic Development at 102 DuffRoad, Penn Hills, Pa. 15235, call 412-342-1172, or contact us online at www.pennhlls.org.  Citizens should be aware that the Community Development Block Grant Program has an obligation to meet federal regulations. Program activities are designed to primarily benefit low and moderate-income persons. The budget will be adopted by Mayor and Council in May and forwarded to HUD for their review and approval. There are always possibilities for either amendments to the plan or other programs which may be a  available to meet your needs.  10    General Program Administration 14%  Clearance and Demolition, 16%  Public Services, 15%  Housing Rehab, 8%  Public Facilities and Improvement, 47%  11    PROPOSED FY2023 CDPROJECTS  PROJECT  BUDGET  PUBLIC SERVICES  LPCC Food Pantry Jefferson Manor Food Pantry Penn Hills Services Association WPHCA Ruth's Way Housing Counseling Services Single Family Rehab Senior Aid Rehab SSC Handrail Program Town Wide Demolition Street Improvements  10,000.00 10,000.00 30,000.00 20,000.00 5,000.00 30,000.00 40,000.00 10,000.00 10,000.00 114,064.00 $2 220,000.00  10,000.00 1 10,000.00 30,000.00 20,000.00 5,000.00 $ 30,000.00 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0  Senior Service Center Improvements $ 20,000.00 Wm McKinley Center Improvements $ 20,000.00 Multi-Purpose Center Improvements $ 20,000.00  Accessible Improvements General Program Administration  50,000.00 1 100,000.00  TOTAL  $709,064.00  $105,000.00  The total for Public Service expenditures cannot exceed 15% oft the total CD expenditures for the  program year. The above budget is approximately 15% Public Services.  12    From: To:  Blackwell,Chris  yogihunt@aol.com; RiCoxdBndgePdkcom; fastealmassashma. fisdonswaxBromoasinet: Kathy Lynch; atinaecomast.net, mounsaonalatankcom: shenoaBenlivantcom: umtosccigmalom, emnemcatnPBgmalcom; tanya.bass@gmail, com; ohprorctusacgmalcom: sacnuioanatyadcm: mwithrow.pttsDurghnabitat.org; ohnp@r-alosph.com; maectemsdsalycom: ateutancesonventures. com; mbutandsomeurscm: Revanhim@veizon.net; jackalaOyerizon.net Smtnz1jeyahoo.com; Phyllis At Home; Minop-amthopepusaag: Edzulo@rzoassaccom; jaime@splas-org; isis@ruthsway.org; shenspodBenlvant.com: carfold@wpsardcorg; mesmadgZomilcm, Andrea Getsy; Gladys_Nesbit; Dan Sullivan; morrisQulpoh.org; drsheilaj; smhmierahnuntindtoncm: Calinkcle,.leatianlais Western Pennsylvania; Kahlil Darden; Ashley Smith; Jenb@hebroncc.org Balsamico, Meg; Buccilli, Damian; Toth, Jesse; Andreichak, Scott Annual Action Plan Needs Public Hearing Thursday, February 8, 20249:59:59/ AM FY2024 CDBG Request Form.pdf  Cc: Subject: Date:  Attachments: Noticeo of First Publich Hearing.pdf Dear CDBG Interested Party,  The Municipality of Penn Hills Department of Planning and Economic Development will hold ap public hearing on February 22, 2024, at 7:30pm before the Penn Hills Planning Commission. The purpose of this public hearing is to discuss the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnerships Programs (HOME) through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium, as well as the housing, community, and economic development needs of the Municipality of Penn Hills. This information will be utilized by the Planning Department in the preparation oft the FY 2024 Annual Action Plan. Attached is a copy of the Notice of First Public Hearing and CDBG Request Form. Future meeting dates beyond February 22, 2024, are tentatively scheduled for the March 21, 2024, before the Planning Department Staff and adoption by Mayor and Council on  April 22, 2024. Thank you, Chris  Cinitopher D. Blackwell Penn Hills Planning Director Penn Hills Government Center 102 Duff Road Pittsburgh, PA1 15235 Machelepennhilsorg www.pennhills.org P412-342-1173 C412-818-5934 F412-342-0023    COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS  FOR  PENN HILLS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM  The following comments and suggestions are: submitted to the Municipality ofPenn] Hills for Consideration in the Municipality's application for fiscal FY2024, Federal Community  Development Funds: Description of Activity:  Location of Activity: Estimated Cost (if! known):  What ist the objective and proposed outcome of your activity?  Comments:  Ifadditional space is required, attach a separate sheet.  Ifyou cannot attend the public hearing to turn in your comments, please mail to:  Department ofl Planning and Economic Development  Municipality ofPenn Hills 102 Duff Road Pittsburgh, PA 15235 ackrel/apemahillons  PLEASEI PRINT: Organization: Name: Address: City: Phone:  Zip: Date:    Accessible bathrooms at McKinley Center, street paving part of Penn  Hills' plans for block grant  JACKTROY SHARE REACT  TUE, FEB 13, 2024.01:06PM  The William Mckinley Center at 801 Seventh St. is slated to get more accessible bathrooms. TribLive It's Community Development Block Grant season in Penn Hills, with project bids out for street reconstruction and accessibility improvements at the  William McKinley Center.    Each year, Penn Hills receives funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development for projects that help low- and moderate-income residents or meet urgent community development needs. Another chunk of change comes from homeowners repaying loans through the municipality's The municipality anticipates a CDBG grant of about $674,000 and $35,000 in Chris Blackwell, Penn Hills planning director, estimated that expanding two bathrooms at the William McKinley Center will cost between $50,000 and $60,000. These improvements will give more room for wheelchair users to maneuver and will bring the bathroom into compliance with Uniform Federal Penn Hills typically uses a portion of the money to make facilities more inclusive. In recent years, the William McKinley Center received new handrails, ramps and door handles. The Penn Hills Senior Center also has benefited in "A lot of these older buildings were constructed prior to current accessibility Street reconstruction is another usual target for CDBG allocations. About $300,000 likely will go toward milling and repaving Suncrest and Calmar drives this year. Pierceand Eola streets are listed on the request for bids as alternate The municipal engineer and public works department will factor in the proposed costs to determine the most efficient combination of streets, according to Blackwell. He anticipates that paving will begin in the spring, as opposed to fall, as the municipality has done in past years. "We're getting a jump on the paving season sO we're getting a better price," None of this is official until Penn Hills approves and submits its Annual Action Plan to the HUD. This document also must detail the municipality's plan to spend about $130,000 in HOME Investment Partnerships Program funding.  CDBG-funded housing rehabilitation program. programincome, the same as last year.  Accessibility Standards.  the past.  standards," Blackwell said.  candidates for reconstruction.  Blackwell said.    Residents, local agencies and other interested parties can give their input on how to best use the CDBG money at two public hearings. The first will be held before the Penn Hills Planning Commission at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22, with another tentatively scheduled at the same time and place for March 21.    PENN HILLS  HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM  Ina an effort to assist low-income families achieve home ownership the Penn Hills Homebuyer Assistance Program offers down payment and closing cost assistance up to $14,500.00 in  financing for the purchase of a home in Penn Hills.  The Homebuyer Assistance Program is designed for homebuyers who meet the following income guidelines purchase a home in Penn Hills that meets the following criteria.  Eligible properties must:  Area Median Income Chart:  Pass the Allegheny County HOME Investment Partnerships Program Rehab Standard Specifications including visual lead-based paint  Household Size 1 2 3 4 5 6  80% AMI $56,250 $64,250 $72,300 $80,300 $86,750 $93,150  inspection.  Pass the Municipality of Penn Hills Occupancy Permit Inspection. Bel located within the Municipality of  Penn Hills.  Have a purchase price of lessthan  $214,000.  Income Limits:  Homebuyer Assistance Program: For more information, please contact:  At or below FY 2023 80% AMI  Penn Hills Planning Department, 102 Duff Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235 www.pennhilspa.goy 412-342-1173 or Dachwelepennhilsors    July 01, 2023  HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GUIDELINES  Prepared by the Municipality of Penn Hills Department of Planning and Economic Development    HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HAP)MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS  INTRODUCTION:  It has been determined through the Municipality of Penn Hills' Fair Housing Analysis and Five-Year Consolidated Plani that there is ar need for homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income person(s) and families in Penn Hills. To address this need, the Municipality of Penn Hills will utilize HOME Investment Partnerships Program ("HOME") funds through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium to establishalHomebuye: Assistance Program (HAP). The HAP's purpose ist to assist eligible individuals and families to become homeowners through down payment and closing cost assistance. To make home ownership an affordable reality, the Municipality of Penn Hills has formed a working partnership with ACTION- Iti is not this Program's intent fort the Municipality of Penn Hills to find eligible properties for potential homebuyer applicants. Instead, iti is the applicant's responsibility to find a  Housing, Inc. as well as local lending institutions and realtors.  vacant single family attached or single family detached residence.  I. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND DEFINITIONS:  A. Income =  The funding source for the HAP is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD's) HOME Program through the Allegheny County HOME Consortium. Because Federal dollars are involved, the Municipality is required Under the HOME Program's regulations, a qualifying applicant for the HAP must be a low-and moderate-income person, family, or household as defined under HUD's HOME Program Income Guidelines (24 CFR Part 5) for the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Gross household income must bel less than 80% AMI. The HOME Income Limits are based on HUD estimates of median family income, with adjustments based on family size. The income guidelines Effective June 15, 2023, the guidelines are as follows based on household size:  toc comply with certain Federal regulatory requirements.  are subject to change.  1F Person $56,250 5F Person $86,750  2 Person $64,250 6Person $93,150  3F Person $72,300 7Person $99,600  4Person $80,300 8 Person $106,000  Source: https://www. huduser. goxlpotaldatasetishome datasets/les/HOME IncomeLmts State PA 2023.pdf  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  1Page    B. Income Sources =  Ap person, family, or household income for this program willl be based upon total gross annual income. The definition of annual income shall be consistent with the Federal Regulation found at 24 CFR Part 5. Annual income shall be all anticipated income from all sources received by the family head, spouse, and by each additional member (aged 18 years and older) of the family or household, related or unrelated, including net income derived from assets, for the twelve (12) month period following the initial determination of income. a Sell-employment income from ownership of a non-farm business,  Annual income includes, but is not necessarily limited to: a Wages, salaries, tips, commissions, etc. including proprietorships and partnerships. 0 Farm self-employment income. a Social Security or railroad retirement. or other public assistance or public welfare program. a Retirement, survivor, or disability pensions.  a Supplemental Security Income, Aid to Families with Dependent Children, a Any other sources of income received regularly, including Veterans' Administration (VA) payments, unemployment compensation, and Acceptable proof of income shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the previous year's filed Federal tax return (IRS 1040/1040A1040EZ) and W2 forms; a minimum oft two (2) months of wage and earning statements; copies of recent wage/salary or benefit check stubs; and copies of bank depository information identifying direct deposit arrangements. The Municipality of Penn Hills reserves the right to request additional income documents such as third- Income qualification is only good for six (6) months and must be updated if the  alimony.  party verifications of alli income and assets as needed. homebuyer does not close on a home before that time.  C. Eligible Homebuyer-  For the purposes of the HAP, a' "homebuyer" shall be defined as a person,  family or household whereby:  Homebuyer household income must bee equal to or less than the 80% Area Median Income (AMI) limit to qualify for assistance. Homebuyer must earn their Homeownership Counseling Certificate from al HUD approved counseling agency prior to receiving a final financial assistance offer for the housing purchase. The home must be the homebuyer's primaryresidence. The homebuyer must provide a minimum of $500 or three percent (3%) of thet total down payment and closing cost expenses, whichever is the lesser oft the two, from personal resources. The HAP financial resources may be used in addition to other forms of  financing.  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  2Page    D. Eligible Property-  To comply with Federal regulations and to ensure safe, decent and affordable housing to potential HAP applicants, the following criteria applies to the a The dwelling unit must be located within the corporate limits of the D Itmust be in compliance with the minimum property maintenance code for the Municipality of Penn Hills and the Allegheny County HOME Rehab Standards or be capable of being brought up to both jurisdictions' Itn must be a vacant single family attached or single family detached a Itn must not contain evidence of defective paint surfaces (i.e., surfaces upon which paint is cracking, scaling, chipping, peeling or loose) on all intact and non-intact interior and exterior painted surfaces. If the dwelling unit contains defective paint surfaces, the Municipality of Penn Hills reserves the right to deny homebuyer assistance through the HAP for the purchase oft the subject property until the conditions are corrected. Itwill be occupied as the primary and principal residence oft the homebuyer during the 5-year period of affordability as referenced in Allegheny County's Recapture Provisions oft the HOME Program. Rental properties (whether for primary or secondary uses) are noteligible. The purchase of the dwelling unit cannot be financed through a lease purchase agreement, land contract, or seller financing.  selection of a dwelling:  Municipality of Penn Hills.  standards prior to occupancy.  residence.  E. Affordability Requirements -  The following are affordability requirements:  a To analyze affordability, the Municipality of Penn Hills shall review on a case-by-case basis (with reasonable discretion) the individual, family, or household's gross monthly income using a not to exceed thirty percent guideline ofr monthly housing cost (i.e., mortgage payment of Principal and Interest, estimated property tax and insurance = PITI) versus monthly The purchase value of the single family, detached dwelling cannot exceed the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD's) HOME Program (July 01, 2023), limit of $214,000 for a single- family The sales price of the house must be in accordance with the Fair Market Value of similar type houses in the Municipality of Penn Hills. The Municipality of Penn Hills will keep a current list of single-family residential sales in Penn Hills that occurred within the past two (2) years as  gross income. dwelling.  comparables.  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  3Page    F. Housing Counseling =  The HAP requires all applicants to complete a housing counseling course prior to receiving a final financial offer for the housing purchase. Evidence of attendance and completion of a housing counseling course is required. Al list of HUD certified Housing Counseling Agencies that provide housing counseling Agencies that provide housing counseling courses can be obtained from the Municipality of Penn Hills. Acceptable forms of evidence include a certificate of  completion and/or letter from the cOurseinstrnuctorenty,  II. TERMS AND CONDITIONS:  A. Application Fee -  There is no fee associated with completing the Pre-Application. A Pre- Application is required to be completed by all households interested in participating in the Homebuyer Assistance Program. The Pre-Application will assist the Municipality in determining ift the household and dwelling unit qualify for the Program. Please see Exhibit "A" Homebuyer Assistance Program  (HAP) Municipality of Penn Hills Pre-Application.  B. Ranking Criteria =  The Municipality of Penn Hills reserves the right to review and rank Pre- application submissions based on the criteria established in these guidelines.  Loan Amount-  The Municipality of Penn Hills will provide up to $14,500 in HOME funds as a forgivable loan to eligible and approved HAP applicants to cover the down payment and closing costs related to the purchase of a dwelling. The amount of down payment assistance is determined by what is reasonable and customary. The total amount of assistance will be determined on a case-by- case basis. Thel homebuyer must provide ar minimum $500 or three percent (3%) oft thet total down payment and closing cost expenses, whichever is the lesser of the two.  D. Loan Term =  Program assistance is provided in the form of a deferred payment, second mortgage loan. The HAP provides a 0% interest forgivable loan with a term of five (5) years. Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) will place a lien on the property purchased with HOME assistance funds and ACED will subordinate to the first mortgage. ACED will not accept a third lien position, except in al hardship case. Ifafter five (5) years the HAP applicant has  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  4IPage    maintained ownership and has continued to livei ini the property assisted through the HAP, the loan is forgiven as a grant. However, if the HAP applicant sells, leases, or transfers the property or fails to use it as their primary and principal residence, the HAP applicant will be required to repay the appropriate amount of HAP assistance to be determined based on the County's Recapture  Provisions of the HOME Program. E. Recapture Provision-  The Homebuyer Assistance Program uses the Allegheny County HOME Recapture Policy for Homeownership Activities based on the HOME program rules found in 24 CFR Part 92 and HUD Notice CPD 12-003. The Issue of recapture arises when al homeowner that received homebuyer assistance under the HOME Program decides to sellt the property before the period of affordability expires. If the property Is sold after the period of affordability has expired, the satisfaction fee has been paid by the borrower, and satisfaction has been recorded by Allegheny County Department of Economic Development with the Allegheny Department of Real Estate, there are no restrictions in terms of recapture of HOME funds that apply to such a transaction. However, if the sale occurs before the period of affordability has expired, certain regulatory limitations apply. Attached in Exhibit "D" is the Allegheny County Recapture Policy for additional details on the recapture provision. Confirm with the Penn Hills Department of Planning and Economic Development the dates that set the  period of affordability. F. Uniform Relocation Act-  The requirements of the Uniform Relocation and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (URA) may apply. The Municipality reserves the right to deny assistance in circumstances in which relocation may be required.  G. Flood Insurance-  Ifany property purchased with the assistance of the HAPis located within the 100-year floodplain, the purchase of Federal Flood Insurance is required annually during thei five-year term oft the loan. The Municipality reserves the right to withhold and/or deny participation in the HAP if the applicant fails to comply with this requirement prior to the loan closing. Furthermore, if the flood insurance on the assisted property lapses during the term of the loan, the HAP applicant will be required to repay the entire amount of the loan.  H. Property Maintenance-  During the five-year term of the HAP loan, the HAP applicant must keep the dwelling and property in compliance with the Municipality's code requirements.  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  5Page    IV. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS:  A. Dwelling Inspection- -  The Municipality of Penn Hills requires an occupancy permit to bei issued in the event of change of ownership, change of occupancy, or change of tenancy for every home In the Municipality. The ordinance places the burden of obtaining this permit on the current owner prior to the change or transfer of occupancy or ownership. The Municipality of Penn Hills as part of its municipal responsibility fori issuing occupancy permits, through its Code Enforcement Department, shall be responsible for inspecting the dwelling unit for local code compliance prior to HAP application approval. The Municipality shall use the standards for inspection based on the attached Exhibit "!" Allegheny County HOME Investment Partnerships Program Rehab Standards Specifications, as well as  the Municipality's Code of Ordinances.  V. APPLICATION PROCESS:  A. Process and Procedure -  The following is the format for completing an application for the HAP: Any interested person, family, or household may request from the Penn Hills Department of Planning and Development a copy of the HAP The Interested party contacts a local partnership bank to pre-qualify for The interested party submits a completed pre-application (EXHIBIT "A") to the Municipality for eligibility review and program compliance. A Pre- applicant will be notified via certified mail if they are determined to be The interested party attends a Housing Counseling Training and obtains a Certificate of Completion from a HUD approved counseling agency. Homebuyer must earn their Homeownership Counseling Certificate prior to receiving a final financial assistance offer for the housing purchase. The interested party searches for an eligible dwelling as set forth under The HAP Applicant applies through a local partnership bank for a a The Municipality conducts the inspection of the subject property for HAP compliance based on the Municipality of Penn Hills Code of Ordinances "Existing Structures Code" and Allegheny County HOME Rehab Standards. Notification of the dwelling unit's compliance or non- compliance will be communicated to the HAP Applicant, the lending institution, and ther realty company. Int the eventi it Is found that the dwelling does not pass the code inspection, the HAP Applicant may  guidelines. home purchase. ineligible.  Section II D (Dwelling Requirements).  mortgage.  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  6Page    select another program eligible dwelling or negotiate with the property The Municipality, though ACTION-Housing, Inc., contacts the HAP Applicant's mortgage lender and/or realtor to determine the agreed upon purchase price of the dwelling, the down payment amount required, and The Municipality, through ACTION-Housing, Inc., reviews the financial information obtained and conducts an Affordability Analysis for program compliance. If compliance is met, ACTION-Housing, Inc. determines the actual amount of HAP assistance and sO notifies the HAP Applicant, the The Municipality, through ACTION-Housing, Inc., sends a letter of loan commitment to the HAP Applicant, who reviews the terms and conditions, agrees tot thet terms, and returns a signed copy back to ACTION-Housing. The Municipality, through ACTION-Housing, Inc., and lender establish a The Municipality, through ACTION-Housing, Inc., completes the ReseNation of Funds form and prepares lien documents for signing at the During the loan closing, ACTION-Housing, Inc. will provide a check made out jointly to the approved HAP Applicant and the lender in the amount approved by the Municipality. The applicant will sign Allegheny County's  owner to correct the code deficiencies.  the loan closing cost.  lender, and/or the realtor.  Inc.  mutually agreed upon loan closing date.  loan closing.  loan documents.  B. EXHIBITS-  D Attached is EXHIBIT "A" - Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP) Attached is EXHIBIT "B" Checklist for Completing the Application Process. a Attached is EXHIBIT "C" the Homebuyer Assistance Program Terms and  Municipality of Penn Hills Pre-Application  Conditions.  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP)  7Page    EXHIBIT" A"  MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS AHOME RULE COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT CENTER 102 DUFF ROAD PENNI HILLS, PA 15235 www.pennhils.or9  1  Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP) Municipality of Penn Hills Pre-Application  Dear Program Pre-Applicant:  Thank you for your interest in the Municipality of Penn Hills Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP). The Program is designed to provide down payment and closing cost assistance of up to $14,500 in financing for the purchase of your own home. This Program is designed for homebuyers who have a total annual household income that falls at or below the maximum income limit set by HUD based on your household size, and that the house you want to buy passes the Allegheny County HOME Investment Partnerships Program Rehab Standards Specifications, as well ast the Municipality's Code of Ordinances. To help you get started, enclosed please find a pre-application form. When you have completed the form, please call our office to schedule an appointment. We will set an appointment time for us to meet and to verify your income eligibility to participate in the For additional assistance and/or to schedule an appointment, please telephone (412)  Homebuyer Assistance Program.  342-1173.  Christopher C. Blackwell, Director  a  Department of Planning & Community Development  Page 1of3    EXHIBIT' "A"  HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HAP)  MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS PRE-APPLICATION  HOUSEHOLDINFORMATION:  Home Phone: Work Phone:  Name: Address:  Current Housing Status: Own  Rent Yes_ No  Do You Currently Live in HUD-Assisted Housing? Have You Previously Owned a Home? Yes_  No  Have You Completed a HUD approved Housing Counseling Course within the Past 12  Months? Yes  No  Was there a charge for your Housing Counseling Course? Yes (Ifso, please bring verification of the amount that you paid.)  No  Number of Persons in Household: Gross Annual Household Income:$_  Please List All Sources of Household Income Received by Each Household Member  (over 18 years of age): Name of Household Member  Source of Income Gross Amount Per  Number of Pays Per Year  Pay  Homebuyer Assistance Program  1Page    EXHIBIT"A"  (Please see the attached Checklist for required verification documents regarding Please List All Assets Below: Including, but not limited to cash held in savings accounts, checking accounts, certificates of deposit, safe deposit boxes, trusts, stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, investment property, cash surrender of life insurance policies, one- time receipts such as money received from an estate, etc....( (Do not include necessary  householdincome and housing counseling.)  personal property, such as vehicles, clothing, and furniture.):  FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Actual Income from Asset  Name of Household Member Type of Asset  Current Balance  (Please see attached Checklist for required verification documents regarding assets.)  II. PROPOSEDDWELLING: DwellingAddress: Current Status of Dwelling:  Vacant  Occupied Single Family Detached  Dwelling Type: Single Family Attached Name of Current Property Owner: Current Property Owner's Phone Number: Agreed Upon Price for Dwelling: $ Name of Realty Company: Realty Company Telephone Number: Name ofRealty Company Contact Person:  Willt this Dwelling be Your Primary and Principal Place ofResidence? Yes_ No  Homebuyer Assistance Program  2Page    EXHIBIT"A"  III. CERTIFICATION:  the undersigned, certify to the best of my knowledge, the above information is true and correct. Any false statements made knowingly and willfully may subject the signer to penalties under Section 1001 and 1010 of Title 18 of the United States  Code.  Signature (HeadofH Household)  Date Signature (Spouseor Partner)  Date  Homebuyer Assistance Program  3Page    EXHIBIT "B"  HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HAP) MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS PRE-APPLICATION CHECKLIST  PHOTO ID: Photo ID for any adult that will reside in the property.  HOUSING COUNSELING:  Homebuyer must earn their Homeownership Counseling Certificate from a HUD approved counseling agency prior to receiving a final financial assistance offer for the housing purchase. Evidence of having completed a HUD approved housing counseling is required. Acceptable forms of documentation are as  follows:  PRE-PURCHASE COUNSELING CERTIFICATE LETTER OF COMPLETION (from courseinstructor/organization) CURRENTLY ENROLLED (evidence of enrollment and expected completion) HOUSEHOLD INCOME INCLUDES AND IS NOT LIMITED TO:  Head ofHousehold's income (ie., employee salary; pension; socials security; asset income; or other Income of any adult that will live in the property (ie., employee salary; pension; socials security; INCOME DOCUMENTATION TO BE SUBMITTED FOR ANY ADULT LIVING IN THE Income Tax Documents: 2022 IRS 1040/1040A/1040EZ (signed and filed), 2022 W-2 or SSA- Employment Stubs: Please submit the last two months' worth of, most recent and consecutive, Bank Statements: Please submit last two months' of bank statements, most recent consecutive,  income).  asseti income; or other income).  PROPERTY:  1099A-SM Forms.  pay stubs for any adult that will live int the property. fora any adult that willl be living int the property.  LOAN PRE-APPROVAL DOCUMENTATION MUST ALSO BE SUBMITTED:  Ap pre-approval letter from your mortgage lender.  SALES AGREEMENT (When signed).  PLEASE NOTE: YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE PROCESSED UNLESS ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION IS SUBMITTED WITH THEAPPLICATION.    EXHIBIT "C"  HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HAP) MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS TERMS AND CONDITIONS  The following are the key terms and conditions of the Municipality of Penn Hills' Homebuyer 1. The pre-applicant must be al homebuyer purchasing a dwelling as their primaryresidence. 2. Under the HOME Program's regulations, a qualifying applicant for the HAP must be a low- andmoderate-income person, family, or household as defined under HUD's HOME Program Income Guidelines (24 CFR Part 5) for the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Gross household income must be less than 80% AMI. The HOME Income Limits are based on HUD estimates of median family income, with adjustments based on family size. The Effective June 15, 2023, the guidelines are as follows based on household size:  Assistance Program. Please read carefully.  income guidelines are subject toc change.  1Person $56,250 5Person $86,750  2F Person $64,250 6Person $93,150  3 Person $72,300 7Person $99,600  4F Person $80,300 8Person $106,000  Source: htips/www.hudusers gov/portaldatasets/ome-datasets/fles/HOME IncomeLmts State PA 2023.pdf  3. The dwelling to be purchased must meet the followingcriteria:  a The dwelling unit must be located within the corporate limits oft thel Municipality of Penn 0 It must be in compliance with the minimum property maintenance code for the Municipality of Penn Hills and the Allegheny County HOME Rehab Standards or be capable of being brought up to both jurisdictions' standards prior tooccupancy. Itr must be a vacant single family attached or single family detachedresidence. a Itmust not contain evidence of defective paint surfaces (i.e., surfaces upon which paint iso cracking, scaling, chipping, peeling or loose) on alli intact and non-intact interior and exterior painted surfaces. If the dwelling unit contains defective paint surfaces, the Municipality of Penn Hills reserves the right to deny homebuyer assistance through the HAP for the purchase of the subject property until the conditions arecorrected. It will be occupied as the primary and principal residence of the homebuyer during the 5-year period of affordability: as referenced int the County's Recapture Provisions of the HOME Program. Rental properties (whether for primary or secondary uses) are not The purchase of the dwelling unit cannot be financed through a lease purchase  Hills.  eligible.  agreement, land contract, or sellerfinancing.  4. TheHAP requires all applicants to complete al HUD certified housing counseling course prior tor receiving a final financial assistance offer for the housing purchase. Evidence of  Page 1of3    EXHIBIT "C"  attendance and completion of a HUD certified housing counseling course is required. A list ofHUD certified Housing Counseling Agencies that provide housing counseling courses can be obtained from the Municipality. Acceptable forms of evidence include a certificate of 5. There is no fee associated with completing the Pre-Application. A Pre-Application is required to be completed by all households interested in participating in the Homebuyer Assistance Program. The Pre-Application will assist the Municipality in determining if the household and dwelling unit qualify for the Program. Please see Exhibit "A" Homebuyer 6. The Municipality of Penn Hills will provide up to $14,500 as a forgivable loan to eligible and approved pre-applicants to cover the costs associated with reasonable down payment and closing cost expenses. The total amount of assistance provided will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The approved pre-applicant must provide a minimum of $500.00 or three percent oft the identified down payment and closing cost total, whichever is the greater 7. Program assistance is provided in the form of a deferred payment, second mortgage loan. The HAP provides a 0% interest forgivable loan with a term of five (5) years. Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) will place a lien on the property purchased with HOME assistance funds and ACED will subordinate to the first mortgage. ACED will not accept a third lien position, except in a hardship case. If after the five-year period of affordability expires, the HAP applicant has maintained ownership, and has continued tol live in the property assisted through the HAP, the loan is forgiven as a grant. However, if the HAP applicant sells, leases, or transfers the property or fails to use it as their primary and principal residence during the five-year period of affordability, the HAP applicant will be required to repay the appropriate amount of HAP assistance to be determined based on the Recapture Provisions of the HOME Program. Confirm with Penn Hills Department of Planning and Economic Development the dates that set the period ofaffordability. 8. Upon the sale or transfer (voluntarily or involuntarily) of the property before the five-year period of affordability expires, recapture will be triggered and ACED will recoup all or a portion of the direct subsidy, limited to net proceeds, to the extent that sufficient funds remain. Confirm with Penn Hills Department of Planning and Economic Development the dates that set the period of affordability. Net Proceeds is defined as the sales price minus the superior non-HOME loan repayment minus closing costs related tot the sale (but not the original purchase of the unit). From the available net proceeds, Allegheny County will distribute the funds as follows: 1. The homeowner will recover the amount of the down payment that the homeowner contributed in cash; 2. The homeowner will recover the cost of documented permanent capital improvements made to the property by the owner since the purchase; 3. From the proceeds remaining after items one and two are paid, the County will recapture up to the full amount of the HOME assistance (the Mortgage Loan Amount), and the remaining amount, if any, will be remitted to the homeowner; and 4. In the event that net proceeds are not sufficient to payt the above, the County will permit thel homeowner  completion and/or letter from the courseinstructorently.  Assistance Program (HAP) Municipality of Penn Hills Pre-Application.  or the two.  Page 2of3    EXHIBIT "C"  to recover up tot their entire investment (down payment and documented capital improvements) and the recapture requirement will be considered satisfied.  9. During the five-year loan term, the approved applicant must keep the dwelling and related property in compliance with the minimum property maintenance code requirements of the Municipality of Penn Hills. Furthermore, the Municipality reserves the right to inspect said dwelling and related property at any time during the five-year period in order to monitor  compliance with the property code.  10. The following affordability requirements shall bea applied:  A30 percent guideline of monthly housing cost (i.e., mortgage payment of Principal and Interest, estimated property Tax and Insurance - PITI) versus monthly gross Purchase value oft the dwelling cannot exceed HUD's HOME Program (Effective June 01, 2022) homeownership value limit for existing HOME units of $214,000 for a  income shall be used to analyze affordability.  single-family dwelling.  IWe understand and agree to abide with the above-referenced terms and conditions.  Pre-Applicants Signature (Head of Household)  Date  Pre-Applicants Signature (Spouse or Partner)  Date  Page 30 of3