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HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-2025-113 Resolution adopting the HUD mandated five-year Consolidated Plan (2025-2029) and the 2025 Annual Action Plan for the City of Yakima (CDBG/HOME Funds)A RESOLUTION RESOLUTION NO. R-2025-113 adopting the proposed 2025-2029 five-year Consolidated Plan and the 2025 Annual Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME fund Programs as mandated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). WHEREAS, every five years, HUD requires the City of Yakima to submit a five-year Consolidated Plan as a requirement for receiving federal funds; and WHEREAS, in order to access the federal CDBG and HOME funds for year 2025-2029, the city is required to submit a five-year Consolidated Plan; and WHEREAS, the City must update its Annual Action Plan with identified general areas of affordable housing and community development; and WHEREAS, the Office of Neighborhood Development Services has fulfilled the requirements for two public input meetings and held an open written public comment period for a minimum of 30 days; and WHEREAS, the City of Yakima has completed the five-year 2025-2029 Draft Consolidated Plan and will document any comments received during the comment period or at the public hearing in the plan prior to forwarding to HUD; and WHEREAS, the City of Yakima has completed the 2025 Annual Action Plan and will document any comments received during the comment period or at the public hearing in the plan prior to forwarding to HUD; and WHEREAS, the City Council hereby finds that it is in the best interests of the City and its residents to adopt the five-year Consolidated Plan and 2025 Annual Action Plan, now, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YAKIMA: That the City Council of the City of Yakima adopts the five-year 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and the 2025 Annual Action Plan and the City Manager of the City of Yakima is hereby authorized to direct staff to submit both documents to HUD as required. ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 4th day of August, 2025. Patricia Byers, 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 1 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Executive Summary ES-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b) 1. Introduction To receive funding each year, the City of Yakima must complete a Five-Year Consolidated Plan. The Consolidated Plan is an assessment of the needs in the community, relating to housing, social and public services, public facilities and infrastructure. The analysis looks at populations that are most affected by the current housing stock, state of the economy and the ability to meet daily living needs. The Consolidated Plan then outlines priorities and goals to address those needs. Each year, the City of Yakima will write an Annual Action Plan, to outline specific projects and funding resources that will be used to meet the priorities and goals. At the end of each year, the City of Yakima will write a Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report to report the progress towards each of the Consolidated Plan goals. These three documents enable the public, elected officials and HUD to understand the needs in the community, provide input and measure progress and investment in the community. 2. Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment Overview The purpose of this Five-Year Consolidated Plan is to serve as a consolidated planning document, and a strategic plan for the City of Yakima. As part of the Five-Year Consolidated Plan, the community must develop priority needs, goals and objectives. The following strategies with subsequent goals and priorities have been identified: Through consultation, many of the stakeholders suggested that the cost of housing often exceeds what many people in the area can afford. The housing profile will examine the housing market in further detail to determine if any households have a disproportionate need. To address the needs, the following priorities and goals have been set by the City of Yakima. Priority: Provide Decent Housing • Create affordable homeownership opportunities for all income levels • Assist with home repairs to enable low/moderate income residents with minor rehabs to sustain their homeownership • Develop affordable rental housing for renters earning incomes between 0 and 60% HAMFI Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 2 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • Preserve existing affordable housing stock Priority: Create A Suitable Living Environment • Support public and supportive services for LMI Yakima residents • Assist senior & disabled citizens with home repairs to enable them to age in place • Improve parks and recreation facilities for low-income communities and increase the accessibility of those facilities for persons with disabilities • Support infrastructure improvements in distressed neighborhoods Priority: Expand Opportunities for LMI Yakima Residents • Increase coordination among service agencies across the Yakima Valley to improve services to low-income residents • Provided expanded accessibility, infrastructure and facility improvements to increase connectivity and opportunities 3. Evaluation of past performance The City of Yakima has a good performance record and regularly meets the performance standards established by HUD. The City has implemented CDBG and HUD funded programs over the past five years as part of the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan and each year prepares its Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER). Over that time, the city has made great strides to assist low-income households in the community. Accomplishments in the past five years include: • Public service activities targeted to vulnerable populations • Housing rehabilitation programs assisted homeowners including elderly and disabled with minor rehabs/repairs to their homes • Public infrastructure improvements including sidewalk and accessibility improvements in low- income areas • The City has enhanced its coordination with regional partners and service providers • Fair housing outreach and education activities have been expanded 4. Summary of citizen participation process and consultation process The City of Yakima has undertaken extensive efforts to engage stakeholders and the public in developing this Consolidated Plan. The process included consultation with local service providers, housing organizations, and community stakeholders. Input was gathered through public outreach events, stakeholder meetings, and public hearings to identify priority needs and inform goal-setting for the 2025-2029 period 5. Summary of public comments Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 3 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) The 30-day comment period was provided and no comments or responses to this document were received. Public comment was received from three community members at the second Public Hearing. All comments were in support of continuing the very popular emergency home repair program. 6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them All comments were accepted 7. Summary The City of Yakima will spend the next five years working to understand and address the needs in the community through strategic investments in housing, public services, and infrastructure improvements. The Consolidated Plan provides a framework for improving neighborhoods, creating opportunities, and building livable communities for all residents. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 4 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) The Process PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies 24 CFR 91.200(b) 1. Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source. Agency Role Name Department/Agency CDBG Administrator YAKIMA Office of Neighborhood Development Services HOME Administrator YAKIMA Office of Neighborhood Development Services Table 1 – Responsible Agencies Narrative As a recipient of funding from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Yakima is required to complete a 5-year Consolidated Plan, annual Action Plan, and CAPER. This Consolidated Plan represents an assessment of Yakima’s affordable housing and community development needs and market conditions. The Plan is used to help the city make data-driven, place- based investment decisions. Community engagement is an essential part of each of the process to create each of these documents Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information Bill Preston, P.E. CD Director W: 509-576-6754 C: 509-571-5570 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 5 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) PR-10 Consultation – 91.100, 91.110, 91.200(b), 91.300(b), 91.215(I) and 91.315(I) 1. Introduction The Office of Neighborhood Development Services (ONDC) leads the City’s CDBG and HOME Programs. In this role it is responsible for planning, grant program and grant administration, program planning/implementation and program monitoring and sustaining community partnerships. In order to effectively utilize its revenue streams and expertise of non-corporate organizations with interests in urban development, ONDC intentionally engages its community partners and citizenry groups to help validate its processes and outcomes. Planning with purpose and meaningful stakeholder engagement is a key component of ONDCs standard operating practice. Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(I)). The City of Yakima participates in numerous organizations and commissions with local service providers to share information and service goals. ONDS consults with public and private agencies that provide assisted housing, health services, and social and fair housing services-especially those focusing on services to children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, and homeless persons through the Homeless Coalition of Yakima County staffed by the Yakima County Department of Human Services for the purpose of the Continuum of Care responsibilities and the Homeless Network, an independent group of service providers dedicated to the sharing of information related to homeless issues in the Yakima community. Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness The city engaged the Continuum of Care (CoC) throughout the Consolidated Plan process by attending CoC coordination meetings and conducting a 1:1 stakeholder session with the CoC lead staff to stay abreast of community resources and gaps. In addition, the city reached out to CoC members and board members to conduct stakeholder interviews, ensuring in-depth perspectives on homelessness response and service coordination. Point-in-Time Count, Housing Inventory Count, and American Community Survey data were analyzed to identify gaps in resources and inform strategy development. This comprehensive engagement ensured that CoC expertise and data shaped both the strategic direction and actionable objectives of the Plan. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 6 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction's area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards and evaluate outcomes, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the administration of HMIS The City of Yakima is an active participant of the Yakima County Homeless Coalition, lead CoC and Coordinated Entry partner. The City of Yakima does not receive ESG funding. Local agencies apply to the State of Washington for funding through the CoC process. The agencies receiving funding must report on HMIS. 2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 7 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization Catholic Charities Housing Services Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-Children Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-homeless What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Non-Homeless Special Needs How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. 2 Agency/Group/Organization YAKIMA VALLEY PARTNERS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Non-Homeless Special Needs Economic Development Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. 3 Agency/Group/Organization Yakima Housing Authority Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing PHA Services - Housing What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Public Housing Needs Non-Homeless Special Needs Market Analysis Anti-poverty Strategy Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 8 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. 4 Agency/Group/Organization Salvation Army Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-Elderly Persons Services-homeless What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Homeless Needs - Families with children Homelessness Needs - Veterans Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. 5 Agency/Group/Organization Rod's House Yakima Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless Services-Health What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 9 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 6 Agency/Group/Organization Yakima Neighborhood Health Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-Children Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Health What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth Market Analysis Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. 7 Agency/Group/Organization Yakima County Department of Human Services Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government - County What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Lead-based Paint Strategy Homelessness Strategy Non-Homeless Special Needs Economic Development Market Analysis Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The agency was consulted through local community meetings and/or one-on-one stakeholder engagement. These engagement efforts provided an opportunity for the agency to share insights on service delivery challenges, emerging needs, and resource gaps. Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting No Agency was intentionally excluded from the consultation process, as a 30-day written comment period will be advertised and open to any citizen or agency to give additional written comment, plus two Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 10 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) advertised Public Hearings to give ample opportunity for input from individuals, groups, departments, and/or agencies. Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan? Continuum of Care Yakima Valley Homeless Coalition The City of Yakima closely coordinates with YVHC to ensure goals are in alignment. Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan (91.215(l)) ONDS and other city staff also consult with and serve on the boards of adjacent units of general local government, including local agencies with wide-spread planning responsibilities such as the Yakima County Economic Development Council. ONDS also consults with local human service agencies including the United Way of Yakima County, Yakima County as well as Yakima Mental Health regarding the non-housing needs of children, elderly, person's with disabilities, homeless persons, and other populations of need concerning priority needs and funding gaps. ONDS uses information generated in the Point-In-Time annual homeless count, United Way of Yakima County's State of Caring Index, (when published), and other sources to identify service trends, available services, and gaps. Yakima City consulted with the County Health Services. Additionally, Yakima County Human Services was a key partner in plan development. Other organizations, city and county government officials, advocates, and public service providers attended meeting during which this plan was discussed. Narrative (optional): Yakima’s approach to implementing the Consolidated Plan emphasizes regional cooperation and leveraging partnerships to maximize the impact of federal investments. Through participation in multiple county and regional planning initiatives, Yakima ensures that CDBG and HOME activities are coordinated with broader regional development strategies, avoiding duplication of efforts and creating synergies that benefit the entire Yakima Valley region. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 11 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) PR-15 Citizen Participation – 91.105, 91.115, 91.200(c) and 91.300(c) 1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting A Citizen Participation Plan was utilized for FY 2025-2029 to guide participation during the development and approval of the 5-year Consolidated Plan. The views of citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties are solicited to ensure reasonable and accessible involvement of the citizens of Yakima in the drafting, implementation, and assessment of the City of Yakima’s 2025-2029 Five-Year Consolidated Plan. Participation is solicited through Public Outreach Events, Public Hearings, and the Yakima Office of Neighborhood Development Services. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 12 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Citizen Participation Outreach Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of response/attendance Summary of comments received Summary of comments not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable) 1 Public Hearing Minorities Non-English Speaking - Specify other language: Spanish Persons with disabilities Non- targeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing A public hearing was held in November 2024 to gather feedback and input on the upcoming CP process. A presentation was provided outlining CDBG and HOME programs. Council members asked questions. No public comment was received. All comments would be accepted. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 13 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Sort Order Mode of Outreach Target of Outreach Summary of response/attendance Summary of comments received Summary of comments not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable) 2 Newspaper Ad Non-English Speaking - Specify other language: Spanish Non- targeted/broad community Newspaper ads to open the public comment period and announce the second public hearing. Both English and Spanish No written comments were received during this period. All comments would be accepted. 3 Public Hearing Minorities Non-English Speaking - Specify other language: Spanish Persons with disabilities Non- targeted/broad community A public hearing was held at a City Council meeting in July 2025 to gather feedback on the final plan. Spanish translation services are available at meetings. Council members asked clarifying questions. Three members of the public spoke in favor of continuing the emergency home repair program. Including the ability to now stay safely housed for the long term. All comments were accepted. Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 14 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Needs Assessment NA-05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview The Needs Assessment (NA) of the Consolidated Plan provides a profile of the City's population, median income, household demographics, housing problems, cost burden, and crowding. A key goal of the Needs Assessment is to identify the nature and extent of housing problems experienced by Yakima’s residents. This assessment will form the basis for the Strategic Plan and the activities that will be supported with CDBG funding. The City's Needs Assessment was conducted in a variety of ways, including online surveys, data review and analysis, attending community meetings, and conducting stakeholder interviews to receive citizen input about housing and community development needs. In addition, the City of Yakima used the prepopulated data sets provided by HUD including the 2016-2020 American Community Survey (ACS) data and 2016-2020 Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data, which provides information on housing needs, to prepare its estimates and projects. Base year data includes the prepopulated 2005-2009 data sets provided by HUD for use in making longitudinal comparisons. Additionally, Yakima is part of the Homeless Coalition of Yakima County, which is tasked to carry out the Continuum of Care responsibilities for the region. Data for the development of the needs for the homeless in the area have been obtained from the Homeless Coalition. The Needs Assessment takes particular care to address "disproportionately greater need" for housing, severe housing problems, and housing cost burden. A disproportionately greater need exists when the percentage of persons in a category of need who are members of a particular racial or ethnic group in a category of need is at least 10 percentage points higher than the percentage of persons in the category as a whole. Other Key definitions for Needs Assessment: Small Family Households (2 persons, neither person 62 years or over, or 3 or 4 persons) Large Family Households (5 or more persons) Elderly – People aged 62 and up. "Elderly" refers to individuals 62-74, while those 75 and up may be referred to as "extra elderly" or "frail elderly." Individuals age 75 and up are generally recognized as a population with different needs than those 62-74, so the CHAS data separates these groups. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 15 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Community Profile Yakima, Washington, a community of 93,830 residents and 33,750 households (2016-2020 American Community Survey), is located in south-central Washington State, within the Yakima Valley, which is part of the larger Columbia Basin region. The average household size is 2.7 people. The community is characterized by a mix of family structures, with 38.2% of households identified as married-couple families and 31.1% led by single female householders. About 33% of households have children under 18, while 30.9% include someone aged 65 or older—reflecting a median age of 35.9 years. Notably, 29.1% of householders live alone, and over half of these individuals are seniors. The city’s educational attainment trails the state average, with only 22.9% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Disability impacts a significant portion of the population—15.4%—with 40.7% of those affected being seniors. Additionally, Yakima faces challenges in health care access, as 12.8% of the population lacks coverage, more than double the state average. Veterans make up 6.6% of the population, further contributing to the city's diverse demographic profile. 62.4% of the population 5 years and over speak only English. The most common second language spoken at home is Spanish (35.5% of households) Yakima experienced minimal population growth from 2009 to 2020, with an estimated increase of only around 1%. Race and Ethnicity 85% of people reporting one race alone. Of these people: • 60.9% were White; • 1.7% were Black or African American; • 3% were American Indian and Alaska Native; • 1.7% were Asian; • 0.21% were Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, • 32.5% were of some other race. An estimated 14.9% reported Two or more races. 48.5% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino (46,992). People of Hispanic origin may be of any race. Economic Challenges Yakima faces significant economic challenges that impact many households across the city. While 73.6% of households earn income from wages or self-employment, the mean household income is $65,314— well below the state average of $103,669. Employment remains moderate with a 58.4% employment Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 16 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) rate, and income disparities persist by gender and household type. Full-time male workers earn an average of $54,944, compared to $44,786 for their female counterparts. Female-headed households with children under 18 are especially vulnerable, with median incomes of just $25,562. Poverty affects nearly one in five Yakima residents (19.2%), nearly double the state rate. The burden is disproportionately borne by children—27.4% live in poverty—and by BIPOC populations, including 44% of American Indian/Alaskan Native residents and 20.8% of Black residents. Public assistance programs like SNAP are essential to many families; nearly 25% of households participate, and over half of those include children. Among SNAP recipients, 47% have at least one member with a disability, and nearly 28% include a senior. These figures point to a community with a working population that struggles with low wages, high poverty, and reliance on social safety nets, particularly among single-parent and marginalized household. Housing Yakima’s housing landscape reflects both affordability challenges and aging infrastructure, contributing to housing insecurity for many residents. With 90,504 total housing units and a 5.1% vacancy rate, the city maintains a relatively tight housing market. The rental market is especially constrained, with a 2022 rental vacancy rate of just 3%, below the state average. Although median monthly rent in Yakima ($879) is significantly lower than the statewide median ($1,202), the region's lower incomes mean that many renters are still cost-burdened. In fact, 69% of renters earning less than 30% of the area median income are severely cost-burdened, paying more than half of their income on housing. Homeownership in Yakima stands at 54.6%, and the median monthly housing cost for homeowners with a mortgage is $1,378. Households that rent earn substantially less than homeowners—$39,080 compared to $67,896—which further exacerbates affordability issues for renters. The city's housing stock is also relatively old, with 67.3% of units built before 1979 and nearly 18% constructed before 1939, raising concerns about safety, energy efficiency, and habitability. Despite a 17.4% increase in jobs between 2009 and 2019, housing construction did not keep pace, growing only 3.4% between 2012 and 2022 while the population increased by 6.2%. The combination of rising overcrowding, limited new housing, and stagnant income growth underscores the growing need for safe, affordable housing in Yakima. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 17 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-10 Housing Needs Assessment - 24 CFR 91.205 (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs The Housing Needs Assessment relies heavily on prepopulated tables provided to entitlement communities by HUD. The data sets utilized are primarily CHAS, ACS, and HUD-adjusted median family incomes (HAMFI). Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) In 1990, Congress passed the National Affordable Housing Act, which required that State and local governments participating in selected HUD grant programs prepare a Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS). The CHAS was meant to serve as the strategic guide for housing and community development activities, particularly activities funded by HUD grants and targeted to low- and moderate-income households. The CHAS data combines ACS microdata with HUD-adjusted median family incomes (HAMFI) to estimate the number of households that qualify for HUD assistance. The CHAS data also incorporate household characteristics (race/ethnicity, age, family size, disability status) and housing unit characteristics (such as the number of bedrooms and rent/owner costs). HUD-Adjusted Median Family Incomes (HAMFI) If the terms "area median income" (AMI) or "median family income" (MFI) are used in the CHAS, assume it refers to HAMFI. This is the median family income calculated by HUD for each jurisdiction to determine Fair Market Rents (FMRs) and HUD programs' income limits. HAMFI will not necessarily be the same as other calculations of median incomes (such as a simple Census number) due to a series of adjustments that are made. The Community Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) evaluates the conditions of families in the area's lower 80% of the Housing Affordability Median Income. Income Category Extremely low-income at or below 30% HAMFI Very low-income greater than 30% - 50% HAMFI Low income greater than 50% - 80% HAMFI Low- and middle-income less than 100% HAMFI Upper income greater than 100% HAMFI Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 18 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) The most relevant income category is 80% of HAMFI because most HUD programs base eligibility on this threshold, generally referred to as low- to moderate-income. It is critical to understand how the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) evaluates income within a community. HUD sets income limits that determine eligibility for assisted housing programs, including the Public Housing, Section 8 project-based, Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, Section 202 housing for the elderly, and Section 811 housing for persons with disabilities. US Census estimates the population of Yakima at 93,260 in 2009 and counts 93,860 persons as of July 1, 2020 (V202). Yakima's population slightly grew by 1% over that period, compared to a population increase of 6.3% nationwide. Demographics Base Year: 2009 Most Recent Year: 2020 % Change Population 93,260 93,830 1% Households 33,080 33,750 2% Median Income $40,726.00 $48,220.00 18% Table 5 - Housing Needs Assessment Demographics Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2016-2020 ACS (Most Recent Year) HAMFI in Yakima A family in Yakima is considered low- to moderate-income (80% HAMFI) if their annual income is; $53,100 as a single-person household $60,700 as a two-person household $68,300 as a three-person household $75,850 as a four-person household $81,950 as a five-person household $88,000 as a six-person household Number of Households Table 0-30% HAMFI >30-50% HAMFI >50-80% HAMFI >80-100% HAMFI >100% HAMFI Total Households 4,535 4,850 7,780 3,595 12,995 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 19 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 0-30% HAMFI >30-50% HAMFI >50-80% HAMFI >80-100% HAMFI >100% HAMFI Small Family Households 1,510 1,950 2,515 1,365 5,460 Large Family Households 525 540 1,125 520 1,500 Household contains at least one person 62-74 years of age 760 860 1,605 680 3,270 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older 720 770 1,435 400 1,640 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger 1,010 1,355 1,800 850 1,340 Table 6 - Total Households Table Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 20 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Housing Needs Summary Tables 1. Housing Problems (Households with one of the listed needs) Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Substandard Housing - Lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities 215 90 80 25 410 0 10 0 0 10 Severely Overcrowded - With >1.51 people per room (and complete kitchen and plumbing) 225 460 360 120 1,165 0 0 80 0 80 Overcrowded - With 1.01-1.5 people per room (and none of the above problems) 130 150 405 130 815 95 75 250 75 495 Housing cost burden greater than 50% of income (and none of the above problems) 1,860 865 305 15 3,045 695 350 265 65 1,375 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 21 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 340 1,180 800 240 2,560 260 570 1,150 290 2,270 Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) 195 0 0 0 195 20 0 0 0 20 Table 7 – Housing Problems Table Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS 2. Housing Problems 2 (Households with one or more Severe Housing Problems: Lacks kitchen or complete plumbing, severe overcrowding, severe cost burden) Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Having 1 or more of four housing problems 2,430 1,565 1,150 290 5,435 790 435 595 140 1,960 Having none of four housing problems 860 1,800 2,585 1,475 6,720 455 1,045 3,450 1,690 6,640 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 8 – Housing Problems 2 Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 22 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 3. Cost Burden > 30% Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50-80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50-80% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 1,140 1,155 360 2,655 225 310 365 900 Large Related 295 240 105 640 150 200 140 490 Elderly 485 515 445 1,445 585 340 680 1,605 Other 840 655 265 1,760 50 80 310 440 Total need by income 2,760 2,565 1,175 6,500 1,010 930 1,495 3,435 Table 9 – Cost Burden > 30% Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS 4. Cost Burden > 50% Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 0 0 310 310 165 135 0 300 Large Related 0 0 50 50 80 25 0 105 Elderly 340 330 280 950 445 140 105 690 Other 0 710 235 945 30 0 0 30 Total need by income 340 1,040 875 2,255 720 300 105 1,125 Table 10 – Cost Burden > 50% Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 23 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Renter Cost Burden By Income - Local Housing Solutions 5. Crowding (More than one person per room) Renter Owner 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Single family households 305 570 610 175 1,660 40 75 220 45 380 Multiple, unrelated family households 55 40 100 25 220 55 0 110 30 195 Other, non-family households 10 0 60 50 120 0 0 0 0 0 Total need by income 370 610 770 250 2,000 95 75 330 75 575 Table 11 – Crowding Information – 1/2 Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Renter Owner 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total Households with Children Present 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 12 – Crowding Information – 2/2 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 24 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Data Source Comments: Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance. The total number of occupied housing units in Yakima during this time is 33,752, with a median income of $44,220. Of these households, 29% householders live alone (single person households): • Householder living alone are most likely to be 65 years or older (14%); compared to 11.6% of householders living alone that are between 35 to 64 years old and 3.6% of householders living alone that are 15 to 34 years old. • The number of single person male households totals 3,922 (25.4%); 1,404 (35.8%) of these male alone households are individuals that are 65 years and older. Male full-time, year-round workers had median earnings of $40,593. This person would be considered low-moderate income (LMI) as the threshold for a single person household is $50,400. • The number of single person female households is 5,909 (32.2%); 3,314 (56%) of these female alone households are individuals 65 years and older. Female full-time, year-round workers had median earnings of $36,257. This person would be considered low-moderate income (LMI) as the threshold for a single person household is $50,400. • 25.1% of householders living alone are homeowners; 33.9% are renters. Single person households are likely to be female. Over half of the single female households are individuals 65 years and older. They are more likely to be renters living in a lower income bracket and experiencing a housing cost burden. Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. Domestic Violence Yakima has critical resources for addressing domestic violence, namely through the Yakima Domestic Violence Coalition; emergency shelter, transitional housing, permanent housing, and legal services through the YWCA; and advocacy, counseling, resource referrals through Aspen Victim Advocacy Services. Additionally, the Yakima Housing Authority has a preference for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking for the regular Housing Choice Voucher program. The 2024 Point In Time Count reported the following numbers individuals being served at domestic violence shelters on a single night in January: • The Lighthouse – 4 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 25 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • YWCA – 31 Disability Federal nondiscrimination laws define a person with a disability to include any: (1) individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; (2) individual with a record of such impairment; or (3) individual who is regarded as having such an impairment. In general, a physical or mental impairment includes, but is not limited to, examples of conditions such as orthopedic, visual, speech, and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), developmental disabilities, mental illness, drug addiction, and alcoholism. In general, the definition of “person with a disability” does not include current users of illegal controlled substances but does provide protections for individuals with drug or alcohol addiction. Individuals would also be protected under Section 504 and the ADA if the purpose of the specific program or activity is to provide health or rehabilitation services to such individuals. The American Community Survey (ACS) estimates that 16.8% of the population in Yakima has a disability, compared to a national average of 13.4%. Additionally, 40.7% of Yakima residents with a reported disability are 65 years of age and over. The City of Yakima has the most persons with a disability in the county, which is a reflection that Yakima is the central city in the county and has extensive medical and human services. US Census Data estimates that in 2020 the poverty rate for people with disabilities is approximately 27%, compared to 11% for persons without disabilities. Data from the National Disability Institute (NDI) shows that individuals with disabilities face higher levels of unemployment, lower education attainment, and more significant barriers to economic participation, contributing to this intersection of poverty and disability. To assist individuals with disabilities, Entrust Community Services offers a myriad of services, including: • High school transitions to help youth with disabilities achieve a successful transition from school to their life following school; • Individual supported employment to help people prepare for, find, and keep jobs in the community; • Community access through basic skills development that help people make social and recreational connections; and • Housing support that meets the unique personal and financial needs of clients. What are the most common housing problems? The most common housing problem in the City of Yakima continues to be housing affordability. According to the 2016-2020 ACS and CHAS data, 3,045 renter households are considered severely cost Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 26 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) burdened; of these households, 61% are considered extremely low income (0-30%AMI). Additionally, the elderly population is disproportionally impacted by these housing costs. Of the households that are considered severely cost burdened, 100% of households are considered elderly households as well. Housing costs are affecting extremely low-income home owners as well; there are 1,375 home owner households that are considered severely cost-burdened. Of these, nearly 51% are extremely low income. Nearly 62% of the extremely low-income households that are severely cost burdened are considered elderly. Additionally, housing data highlights the lack of affordable and ADA-compliant housing across the nation. In “The State of the Nation’s Housing” 2022 report, it’s reported that a “vast majority of US homes lack basic accessibility features – such as no-step entryway and grab bars in the bathroom – that older adults and people with disabilities often need to live safely in their homes.” Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems? Renter households with worst-case housing needs are those with very low incomes that do not receive government housing assistance and pay more than one-half of their incomes toward rent, those that live in severely inadequate conditions, or both. This population of residents faces the greatest risk of becoming homeless or having unstable housing. The greatest housing needs in Yakima exist among renters, particularly those with incomes at or below 30% of AMI. Elderly households are a significant portion of the population in need, both for renters and owners. This suggests the need for affordable housing options and supportive services geared toward aging residents. Which households can have worst-case needs? By definition, households that can have worst-case needs are households that— 1. Are renters. 1. Have very low incomes—incomes of no more than 50 percent of the area median income (adjusted for family size). 1. Do not receive housing assistance. Priority problems trigger worst-case needs Two types of priority problems determine whether households have worst-case needs: 1. Severe rent burden means that a renter household pays more than one-half of its income for gross rent (rent and utilities). Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 27 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 1. Severely inadequate housing refers to units having one or more serious physical problems related to heating, plumbing, and electrical systems or maintenance "Worst Case Housing Needs, 2019 Report to Congress" U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Policy Development and Research Additionally, Elderly households, both renters and homeowners, especially those earning 0-30% AMI, are likely to be disproportionately affected by severe housing problems. Housing affordability and home repair assistance programs that address aging in place should also be prioritized. Describe the characteristics and needs of Low-income individuals and families with children (especially extremely low-income) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered 91.205(c)/91.305(c)). Also discuss the needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re-housing assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance The McKinney-Vento Act, which later became part of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), mandates protections and services for homeless children and youth, including those with disabilities. The 2004 reauthorization of IDEA also includes amendments that reinforce timely assessment, inclusion, and continuity of services for homeless children and youth with disabilities. McKinney-Vento Definition of Homelessness is anyone who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, including: • Sharing the housing of others due to lack of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, and camping grounds due to a lack of adequate alternative accommodations • Living in emergency or transitional shelters • Abandoned in hospitals • Awaiting foster care placement • Living in a public or private place not designed for humans to live • Living in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, public train stations, etc. • A migrant child who qualifies under any of the above The major causes of homelessness for children in the U.S. involve both structural and individual factors, including: • the nation's persistently high rates of poverty for families; • a lack of affordable housing across the nation; • continuing impacts of the Great Recession; • racial disparities in homelessness; Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 28 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • the challenges of single parenting; • the ways in which traumatic experiences, especially domestic violence, precede and prolong homelessness for families. "America's Youngest Outcasts - A Report on Child Homelessness American Institutes for Research, 2014. Homelessness can have a tremendous impact on children – their education, health, sense of safety, and overall development. Fortunately, researchers found that children are also highly resilient. Differences between children who have experienced homelessness and low-income children who have not experienced homelessness typically diminish in the years following a homeless episode. When compared to low-income and homeless families, children experiencing homelessness have been shown to: • Have higher levels of emotional and behavioral problems; • Have increased risk of serious health problems; • Are more likely to experience separations from their families; and • Experience more school mobility, repeat a grade, are more likely to be expelled or drop out of school, and have lower academic performance. "National Alliance to End Homelessness" If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at-risk population(s), it should also include a description of the operational definition of the at-risk group and the methodology used to generate the estimates: Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness Housing cost burden continues to be a primary risk for low-income individuals and families with children at risk of experiencing homelessness. The National Alliance to End Homelessness states that "low- income households are typically unemployed or underemployed due to many factors, such as a challenging labor market, limited education, a gap in work history, a criminal record, unreliable transportation or unstable housing, poor health, or a disability. For those who are low-income but employed, wages have been stagnant and have not kept pace with expensive housing costs. The typical American worker has seen little to no growth in his/her weekly wages over the past three decades. Too little income combined with the dwindling availability of low-cost housing leaves many people at risk for becoming homeless." Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 29 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Other than income, some other characteristics can also predispose an individual or household to homelessness, including: • Persons leaving institutions: detox, mental hospitals, prisons, etc. • Households paying more than 50% of income for housing costs • Victims of domestic violence • Special needs populations (persons with AIDS, disabilities, drug or alcohol addiction, etc.) • Single parent head of households who are unemployed • People who are doubling up in unstable living arrangements (and cannot be counted as homeless) • Families living below the poverty level Households that exhibit one or more of these characteristics constitute a population that is "at-risk" of becoming homeless. These individuals and families are at risk of becoming homeless because they have a lesser chance of making economic improvements in their lives. Discussion Housing is Out of Reach There is a significant gap between renters’ wages and the cost of rental housing across the United States. A full-time worker needs to earn an hourly wage of $40.32 on average to afford a modest, two- bedroom rental home in the state of Washington. This “Housing Wage” for a two-bedroom home is $33.07 higher than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 and $24.04 higher than the Washington minimum hourly wage of $16.28 (non-tipped workers) earned by renters. Renters with the lowest incomes face the greatest challenge in finding affordable housing. The average minimum wage worker in Washington must work nearly 83 hours per week to afford a modest one- bedroom rental home at the average fair market rent. A full-time worker needs to earn an hourly wage of $33.77 to afford a one-bedroom rental home. Many occupations do not earn enough annually to afford housing. The median hourly wage for the following positions reflects the shortfall: • Fast food and counter workers - $17.58 • Cashiers - $17.77 • Retail salespersons - $18.38 • Home health and personal care aids - $20.85 • Cooks, restaurant - $21.67 • Waiters and waitresses - $24.12 "Out of Reach 2024" National Low Income Housing Coalition Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 30 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-15 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction CDBG entitlement communities are to provide an assessment for each of the disproportionately greater needs identified. Although the purpose of these tables is to analyze the relative level of need for each race and ethnic category, the data also provide information for Yakima as a whole that can be useful in describing the overall need. Income Category • Extremely low-income at or below 30% HAMFI • Very low-income greater than 30% - 50% HAMFI • Low income greater than 50% - 80% HAMFI • Low- and middle-income less than 100% HAMFI • Upper income greater than 100% HAMFI The most relevant thresholds are 50% and 80% of HAMFI because most HUD programs base eligibility on these thresholds (which are generally referred to as "very low-income" and "low-income," respectively). Housing Problems There are four housing problems in the CHAS data: • The housing unit lacks complete kitchen facilities • The housing unit lacks complete plumbing facilities; • Household is overcrowded • Household is cost-burdened. A household is said to have a housing problem if they have one or more of these four problems. Overcrowding is one of the four housing problems evaluated by HUD. HUD defines overcrowding as: • Overcrowding - More than one person per room. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 31 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • Severe overcrowding - More than 1.5 persons per room. HUD defines cost burden as: • Cost burden - Monthly housing costs (including utilities) exceeding 30% of monthly income. • Severe cost burden - Monthly housing costs (including utilities) exceeding 50% of monthly income. 0%-30% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 3,820 720 0 White 1,780 460 0 Black / African American 25 0 0 Asian 70 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 135 40 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 1,670 190 0 Table 13 - Disproportionally Greater Need 0 - 30% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4. Cost Burden greater than 30% 30%-50% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 3,750 1,095 0 White 2,075 650 0 Black / African American 20 0 0 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 32 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Asian 45 20 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 115 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 1,395 390 0 Table 14 - Disproportionally Greater Need 30 - 50% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4. Cost Burden greater than 30% 50%-80% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 3,695 4,080 0 White 1,940 2,285 0 Black / African American 145 95 0 Asian 50 25 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 4 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 1,485 1,600 0 Table 15 - Disproportionally Greater Need 50 - 80% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4. Cost Burden greater than 30% Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 33 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 80%-100% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 960 2,635 0 White 580 1,545 0 Black / African American 0 10 0 Asian 10 10 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 20 0 Pacific Islander 25 65 0 Hispanic 290 955 0 Table 16 - Disproportionally Greater Need 80 - 100% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4. Cost Burden greater than 30% Discussion An estimated 85% of people reporting one race alone. Of these people: • 60.9% were White; • 1.7% were Black or African American; • 3% were American Indian and Alaska Native; • 1.7% were Asian; • 0.21% were Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, • 32.5% were of some other race. An estimated 14.9% reported Two or more races. Additionally, an estimated 48.5% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino (46,992). People of Hispanic origin may be of any race. An analysis of housing data for the City of Yakima shows that there are no racial or ethnic groups being disproportionally impacted by housing problems, but income is an indicator of experiencing a housing problem. The data reveals extremely low-income (0-30% of Area Median Income) and low-income (31- 50% of Area Median Income) households are significantly more likely to encounter at least one housing problem, such as cost burden, overcrowding, or substandard housing conditions, regardless of race. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 34 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) These income groups face the greatest challenges in accessing affordable, safe, and adequate housing, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address their specific housing needs. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 35 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-20 Disproportionately Greater Need: Severe Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction A disproportionately greater need exists when the members of a racial or ethnic group at a given income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10% or more) than the income level as a whole. Severe housing problems include: • Overcrowded households with 1.5 persons per room, not including bathrooms, porches, foyers, halls, or half-rooms • Households with cost burdens of more than 50% of income The "2019 County Health Ranking Key Report" by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found that "many households are just one unforeseen event – an illness, job loss, financial crisis, or even a drop-in hour at work – from losing their home. The risk for homelessness is especially high for low-income families spending more than half of household income on housing costs. Families that face insecure housing, forced moves, or homelessness are more likely to experience poor mental or physical health and preventable hospitalizations. For children in these families, experiencing homelessness can also be harmful to brain and body function and development, with lifelong and cumulative negative health outcomes for the child, the family, and the community." 0%-30% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 3,220 1,315 0 White 1,455 790 0 Black / African American 19 10 0 Asian 70 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 135 40 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 1,415 445 0 Table 17 – Severe Housing Problems 0 - 30% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 36 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4. Cost Burden over 50% 30%-50% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 2,000 2,845 0 White 1,205 1,525 0 Black / African American 20 0 0 Asian 20 45 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 30 85 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 665 1,125 0 Table 18 – Severe Housing Problems 30 - 50% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4. Cost Burden over 50% 50%-80% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,745 6,035 0 White 715 3,510 0 Black / African American 85 150 0 Asian 30 45 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 4 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 910 2,175 0 Table 19 – Severe Housing Problems 50 - 80% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 37 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4. Cost Burden over 50% 80%-100% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 430 3,165 0 White 115 2,015 0 Black / African American 0 10 0 Asian 0 25 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 20 0 Pacific Islander 25 65 0 Hispanic 250 1,000 0 Table 20 – Severe Housing Problems 80 - 100% AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4. Cost Burden over 50% Discussion Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 38 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-25 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction: This section evaluates the housing cost burden from a racial or ethnic group perspective. Cost burden is the fraction of a household's total gross income spent on housing costs. For renters, housing costs include rent paid by the tenant plus utilities. For homeowners, housing costs include mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, and utilities. A disproportionately greater need exists when the members of a racial or ethnic group at an income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10% or more) than the income level as a whole. HUD defines cost-burdened families as those “who pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing” and “may have difficulty affording necessities such as food, clothing, transportation, and medical care.” Severe rent burden is defined as paying more than 50 percent of one’s income on rent. The tables display cost burden information for Yakima and each racial and ethnic group. Cost Burden is described in the tables as: • No cost burden (less than 30%) • Cost burden (30-50%) • Severe cost burden (more than 50%) • No/negative income. No/negative income households are those whose income is zero or negative due to self-employment, dividends, and net rental income. These households are not included in the other two categories but still require housing assistance and are counted separately. Data from the American Housing Survey and the American Community Survey indicate that severe rental burdens disproportionately impact poor families. The Worst Case Housing Needs surveys the number of very low-income families (those earning less than 50 percent of the area median income) who pay more than half their income in rent, have substandard housing conditions, or both. Rental Burdens: Rethinking Affordability Measures, HUD PD&R Edge Housing Cost Burden Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) Jurisdiction as a whole 22,485 6,045 5,000 225 Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 39 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) White 14,355 3,435 2,830 95 Black / African American 285 70 55 0 Asian 220 55 90 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 185 115 135 30 Pacific Islander 120 0 0 0 Hispanic 6,915 2,215 1,670 100 Table 21 – Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens AMI Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS 30% Affordability Rule - A Discussion With the cost of housing on the rise, researchers are reexamining the 30-percent rule of thumb for measuring rental burden. HUD defines cost-burdened families as those “who pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing” and “may have difficulty affording necessities such as food, clothing, transportation, and medical care.” Severe rent burden is defined as paying more than 50 percent of one’s income on rent. The 30-percent rule — that a household should spend no more than 30 percent of its income on housing costs — has long been accepted in academic circles and is often included in blogs and websites on family budgeting. A recent Business Week article, however, argues that the 30-percent rule is “nearly useless.” The authors suggest that calculating housing cost burden using only income ratios oversimplifies the issue of housing affordability. Frank Nothaft, chief economist at Freddie Mac, is quoted in the article as saying, “If your income is $500,000 a year, you can pay 40 percent and still have money left. But if your income is $20,000 a year, it will be hard to make ends meet if you’re paying 30 percent of your income on rent.” In discussing the rental affordability measurement to Business Week, David Bieri of the University of Michigan states that the 30-percent rule “[is] essentially an arbitrary number.” One of the arguments against the share of income approach is that different households earning the same annual income spend considerably different amounts of money on basic necessities. For example, families with children spend more on clothing, food, and medical bills than single adults. Thus, a household with children that spends 50 percent of its income on housing might be cost-burdened, whereas a single adult who earns the same salary and spends the same percentage of income on housing might not be. In addition, the share of income measure does not consider cost-of-living differences in areas where housing is expensive. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 40 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Discussion: A disproportionately greater need exists when the percentage of persons in a category of need who are members of a particular racial or ethnic group is at least 10 percentage points higher than the percentage of persons in the category as a whole. Within Yakima, no groups meet this HUD definition. It’s important to note that approximately nearly 15% of the jurisdiction as a whole is considered severely cost burdened, paying 50% or more of their income towards housing costs; nearly 18% of the jurisdiction is considered cost burdened. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 41 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-30 Disproportionately Greater Need: Discussion – 91.205(b)(2) Are there any Income categories in which a racial or ethnic group has disproportionately greater need than the needs of that income category as a whole? A disproportionately greater number of housing problems would exist when members of any particular racial or ethnic group at an income level experience housing problems at a rate greater than 10% of the percentage of the same racial or ethnic group population as a whole. Within Yakima, no groups meet this HUD definition. If they have needs not identified above, what are those needs? While there are no groups to meet HUD’s definition, it’s important to note that any group of persons that is extremely low or low income are more likely to experience housing conditions. These groups face the greatest challenges in accessing affordable, safe, and adequate housing, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address their specific housing needs. Experiencing one or more housing problems—such as overcrowding, cost burden, lack of kitchen facilities, or inadequate plumbing—often exacerbates other challenges that low-income households face. Housing instability can lead to frequent moves, disrupting employment and children's education. Cost-burdened households may struggle to afford other necessities like healthcare, transportation, and nutritious food. Additionally, substandard housing conditions can negatively impact physical and mental health, increasing the likelihood of respiratory illnesses, stress, and anxiety. The City of Yakima will continue to do the following: • More outreach to these marginalized groups on Fair Housing Choice. • More outreach to the rental agencies and property managers on Fair Housing Choice. • Additional supports to ensure that these renters and homeowners have access to resources and funding for to ease cost burden, overcrowding, and address substandard living conditions. Are any of those racial or ethnic groups located in specific areas or neighborhoods in your community? To assist communities in identifying racially/ethnically-concentrated areas of poverty (R/ECAPs), HUD has developed a census tract-based definition of R/ECAPs. The definition involves a racial/ethnic concentration threshold and a poverty test. The racial/ethnic concentration threshold is straightforward: R/ECAPs must have a non-white population of 50 percent or more. Regarding the poverty threshold, Wilson (1980) defines neighborhoods of extreme poverty as census tracts with 40 percent or more of individuals living at or below the poverty line. HUD supplements this with an alternate criterion because overall poverty levels are substantially lower in many parts of the country. Thus, a neighborhood can be a R/ECAP if it has a poverty rate that exceeds 40% or is three or more times the average tract poverty rate for the metropolitan/micropolitan area, whichever threshold is lower. Currently, the city of Yakima does not have any racially/ethnically-concentrated areas of poverty. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 42 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 43 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-35 Public Housing – 91.205(b) Introduction YHA only administers Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV’s); YHA does not operate public housing. According to YHA’s 2024 Annual Plan, YHA currently administers 1,312 HCV’s. YHA currently has a “high” performance rating in the Section Eight Management Assessment Program (SEMAP). SEMAP measures the performance of the public housing agencies (PHAs) that administer the Housing Choice Voucher program in 14 key areas. SEMAP helps HUD target monitoring and assistance to PHA programs that need the most improvement. YHA housing programs include: • Family Housing Program: YHA owns and operates 150 units and offers a variety of housing to applicants so they can choose the type that best fits their family’s needs. • Farm Worker Housing Program: YHA owns and operates 172 units of agricultural rental housing which are located on 456 sites throughout Yakima County. Units range from one to five bedrooms. Additionally, 10 units are dedicated to migrant worker housing and 6 units of H-2A housing. • Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher Program: YHA provides rental assistance to low-income families in the private market. Population specific vouchers include vouchers for veterans and non-elderly disables households. • Elderly and Disabled Housing: YHA owns and operates 88 Elderly and Disabled units. All units are one bedroom. • Homeless Housing: YHA offers 27 units for homeless housing. Additionally, YHA has partnered with several non-profit organizations and Yakima County’s Department of Human Services and Grant Management to provide housing and services to the homeless. There are 75 vouchers throughout Yakima County specifically set aside for individuals and families who qualify as homeless. In addition, each individual receives assistance with health care, substance abuse and job training. • Fruitvale Housing: Fruitvale Housing and YHA have partnered together to build 54 units of affordable housing. • Veteran Supportive Housing: Chuck Austin Place is a 41 unit, permanent supportive housing development serving formerly homeless veterans and 12,000 SF supportive service center for both residents and the veteran and homeless community. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 44 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) YHA resident services include: • Family Self-Sufficiency Program: This program helps residents increase their skill levels, education, and employment, to become self- supporting. The FSS Program is open to households, with or without children. • Family Fun Night Community Resource Fair: This free community event will features dozens of vendors, providing an array of offerings from local community organizations and service providers. • Sharon Wandler Scholarship: Three scholarships will be awarded to candidates pursuing their first degree. One scholarship, which will be awarded to a returning college attendee, and two scholarships for High School Graduates or GED holder. • Moving to Work: Helps YHA to maximize the number of households served through the voucher program and making changes to the voucher program to make it more efficient to operate, more likely to increase the self-sufficiency, and housing choice as well as the required activities related to landlord incentives. Totals in Use Program Type Certificate Mod- Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * # of units vouchers in use 0 0 149 644 58 553 33 0 0 Table 22 - Public Housing by Program Type *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 45 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Characteristics of Residents Program Type Certificate Mod- Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Average Annual Income 0 0 14,000 11,552 9,970 11,822 9,800 0 Average length of stay 0 0 4 5 0 5 0 0 Average Household size 0 0 3 2 3 2 1 0 # Homeless at admission 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 # of Elderly Program Participants (>62) 0 0 12 146 1 138 7 0 # of Disabled Families 0 0 26 199 11 171 17 0 # of Families requesting accessibility features 0 0 149 644 58 553 33 0 # of HIV/AIDS program participants 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 # of DV victims 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 23 – Characteristics of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 46 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Race of Residents Program Type Race Certificate Mod- Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * White 0 0 142 570 48 492 30 0 0 Black/African American 0 0 2 45 5 37 3 0 0 Asian 0 0 1 7 1 6 0 0 0 American Indian/Alaska Native 0 0 4 21 4 17 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 24 – Race of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Ethnicity of Residents Program Type Ethnicity Certificate Mod- Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * Hispanic 0 0 117 163 21 137 5 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 32 481 37 416 28 0 0 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 25 – Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 47 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 48 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants on the waiting list for accessible units: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law, codified at 29 U.S.C. § 794, that prohibits discrimination based on disability in federally-assisted programs or activities. Specifically, Section 504 states, "No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States. ..shall, solely by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, service or activity receiving federal financial assistance or under any program or activity conducted by any Executive agency or by the United States Postal Service." This means that Section 504 prohibits discrimination based on disability in any program or activity that receives financial assistance from any federal agency, including HUD, as well as in programs conducted by federal agencies, including HUD. An individual with a disability is any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The term physical or mental impairment may include, but is not limited to, conditions such as visual or hearing impairment, mobility impairment, HIV infection, developmental disabilities, drug addiction, or mental illness. In general, the definition of “person with disabilities” does not include current users of illegal controlled substances. However, individuals would be protected under Section 504 (as well as the ADA) if the purpose of the specific program or activity is to provide health or rehabilitation services to such individuals. The term major life activity may include: seeing, hearing, walking, breathing, performing manual tasks, caring for one's self, learning, speaking, or working. This list is not exhaustive. Section 504 also protects persons who have a record of such impairment or are regarded as having such an impairment. YHA has fully accessible units and can make reasonable accommodations for tenants. Most immediate needs of residents of Public Housing and Housing Choice voucher holders Key Immediate Needs: • Access to Affordable Housing: YHA operates a computer-generated lottery for the Section 8 waiting List. Due to limited supply, everyone who applies is added to the waiting list. Even those who have received vouchers struggle to find housing within the program's payment standards as these standards are not in alignment with market rent rates. • Increased Landlord Participation: The number of landlords accepting Housing Choice Vouchers has declined, partly due to the ability to secure higher rents from tenants without vouchers. This trend limits housing options for voucher holders and exacerbates the housing shortage. • Improved Housing Conditions: Many affordable housing units in Yakima are in substandard condition, featuring issues like exposed wiring, mold, and structural hazards. These conditions compromise the safety and well-being of residents. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 49 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Addressing these immediate needs requires coordinated efforts to secure additional funding, encourage landlord participation, improve housing conditions, and expand the availability of affordable housing units. Such measures are essential to support the well-being of YHA residents. How do these needs compare to the housing needs of the population at large The challenges of housing cost burden impact almost all families, regardless of the income level. Housing cost burdens impact middle-income families who have a more significant challenge saving for emergencies and maintaining their home or saving for homeownership. Households with a high-cost burden, regardless of income, are at a greater risk of losing their housing. Discussion Public housing authority tenants often face multiple challenges that extend beyond the need for affordable rent. Many residents have low or fixed incomes, making it difficult to afford essentials like food, healthcare, and transportation. According to HUD, over 50% of public housing households are headed by elderly or disabled individuals, highlighting the need for accessible housing, supportive services, and healthcare access. Reliable transportation is also a significant issue, as many public housing developments are located in areas with limited public transit options, making it harder for tenants to access jobs, education, and medical care. Additionally, safety and community services are key concerns, with many residents advocating for improved security measures, youth programs, and workforce development initiatives. With more than 1.7 million Americans living in public housing, addressing these needs through expanded social services, better infrastructure, and economic opportunities is essential to improving the quality of life for public housing residents. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 50 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-40 Homeless Needs Assessment – 91.205(c) Introduction: A Continuum of Care (CoC) is a geographically based group of representatives that carries out the planning responsibilities of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) CoC Homeless Assistance Program. These representatives come from organizations that provide services to people experiencing homelessness. The Department of Commerce is the Collaborative Applicant for the Washington Balance of State Continuum of Care (BoS CoC). The BoS CoC’s 34 small and medium sized counties received about $8 million annually for 50 permanent and temporary housing projects funded by HUD’s CoC program. Yakima County elects 2 representatives to the BoS CoC Board (Steering Committee). The Steering Committee meets monthly virtually and hybrid quarterly. There are several subcommittees that address subpopulations: Families without Children – Chronic Homeless, Youth, Veterans, Racial Equity, and Families with Children. Each committee typically meets 8-10 times per year. Yakima County also formed the Yakima County Homeless Coalition (YHC), which aims to address the wide range of matters associated with homelessness in Yakima County with the goals of making homelessness brief and rare. The Department of Commerce coordinates the annual Point-In-Time (PIT) count with and reports results to the State Legislature and HUD. 2024 County PIT data is used within this section. Due to the nature of a one-night count, the uses of the PIT Count data and its limitations should be noted. It is understood that a one-night point in time count has limitations and in any given year may under-count or over-count the homeless population when compared to data collected over a more extended period of time or at other periodic intervals. The greatest value of the PIT Count is that it is an unduplicated count of both sheltered and unsheltered persons experiencing homelessness on one night. Decreases or increases in the number of persons counted from year to year may indicate a change in the homeless population or external circumstances or both. Because of the limitations of PIT Count Data, data pulled from Yakima County’s consolidated homeless grant performance tracker dashboard. Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 51 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Homeless Needs Assessment Population Estimate the # of persons experiencing homelessness on a given night Estimate the # experiencing homelessness each year Estimate the # becoming homeless each year Estimate the # exiting homelessness each year Estimate the # of days persons experience homelessness Sheltered Unsheltered Persons in Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons in Households with Only Children 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons in Households with Only Adults 0 0 0 0 0 0 Chronically Homeless Individuals 0 0 0 0 0 0 Chronically Homeless Families 0 0 0 0 0 0 Veterans 0 0 0 0 0 0 Unaccompanied Child 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons with HIV 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 26 - Homeless Needs Assessment Data Source Comments: See attached PIT data Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 52 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Yakima County PIT Count 2024 VETERANS Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 53 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Yakima County PIT Count 2024 Race Ethnicity Demo Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 54 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Indicate if the homeless population is: Has No Rural Homeless If data is not available for the categories "number of persons becoming and exiting homelessness each year," and "number of days that persons experience homelessness," describe these categories for each homeless population type (including chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth): Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 55 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Nature and Extent of Homelessness: (Optional) Race: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional) White 0 0 Black or African American 0 0 Asian 0 0 American Indian or Alaska Native 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 Ethnicity: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional) Hispanic 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 Data Source Comments: Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance for families with children and the families of veterans. Describe the Nature and Extent of Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group. See attached data from 2024 PIT Count for Yakima County. Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness. Unsheltered Homeless refers to the segment of a homeless community who do not have ordinary lawful access to buildings in which to sleep, as referred to in the HUD definition as persons occupying "place not meant for human habitation”, (examples: bus stop, parks, riverbed, van, RV, sidewalk). Sheltered Homeless refers to those in an emergency shelter, in transitional housing, or who are exiting an institution where they temporarily reside lacking a fixed nighttime residence. People will be considered homeless if they are exiting an institution where they resided for up to 90 days. People who are losing their primary nighttime residence which may be a motel, hotel or a doubled up situation within 14 days and lack resources or support networks to remain in housing, are also considered homeless. According to the 2024 Yakima County PIT Count report, there were: • 143 individuals unsheltered Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 56 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • 34 individuals in sanctioned encampments • 300 individuals in emergency shelter. The number of individuals experiencing homelessness who were surveyed decreased in 2024 by nearly 15% from 2023. The unsheltered population decreased by nearly 28%, compared to 2023. According to the Yakima County dashboard, 18% of individuals exiting shelter during FY25 have had a positive exit destination (i.e. permanent housing). Discussion: Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 57 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-45 Non-Homeless Special Needs Assessment - 91.205 (b,d) Introduction: Supportive housing is a nationally recognized, evidence-based approach to addressing some of the most complex challenges facing communities today. It integrates affordable, permanent housing with access to comprehensive, voluntary support services designed to promote stability, independence, and dignity for individuals and families with the greatest needs. Residents of supportive housing benefit from intensive case management and are connected to critical services such as healthcare, workforce development, and child and family support. Unlike temporary housing solutions, supportive housing is permanent and does not impose time limits on residency. Supportive housing improves: • Housing stability • Employment • Mental and physical health • School attendance • Engagement with behavioral health services Several populations of residents in the City of Yakima would benefit from supportive housing. These include elderly persons, persons with disabilities, persons with behavioral health needs, or persons with HIV/AIDS and their families. Describe the characteristics of special needs populations in your community: Elderly Persons information below covers the population of persons in Yakima aged 65 years or older, who make up 16% of the population. Additionally: • 50% of persons aged 65 years or older are living alone • 41% have a reported disability • Are more likely to be homeowners (versus renters) • 87% receive social security income Elderly households have housing needs centered on maintaining affordable housing options. Many residents in this category also benefit from accessibility upgrades in their homes. Persons with Disability Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 58 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Federal nondiscrimination laws define a person with a disability to include any (1) individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; (2) individual with a record of such impairment; or (3) individual who is regarded as having such an impairment. In Yakima, 16.8% of the population has a disability: • 5.4% with a hearing difficulty • 2.9% with a vision difficulty • 7.3% with a cognitive difficulty • 9.1% with an ambulatory difficulty • 3.6% with a self-care difficulty • 7.5% with an independent living difficulty Persons with behavioral health needs often require a holistic approach to support their well-being, as their challenges extend beyond mental health care alone. Access to behavioral health services, including therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention, is crucial for stability, yet many face barriers such as provider shortages, long wait times, and high costs. Reliable transportation is essential to ensuring they can attend medical appointments, therapy sessions, and access community resources. Stable and affordable housing is another critical need, as housing insecurity can exacerbate mental health conditions and make it difficult to adhere to treatment plans. In Yakima, services are available to women with high-risk pregnancies who are struggling with substance use. The options and opportunities are tailored to the needs of the individual and the program that will be most beneficial. Additionally, access to nutritious food plays a significant role in overall health and well-being, as poor nutrition can contribute to mood disorders and other physical health issues. Comprehensive support systems, including case management and peer support, are vital in helping individuals with behavioral health needs maintain stability and improve their quality of life. Persons Living with HIV/AIDS - SEE DESCRIPTION BELOW What are the housing and supportive service needs of these populations and how are these needs determined? The non-homeless special needs populations in the City of Yakima have a wide range of service needs, including transitional housing, supportive housing, accessible housing, counseling, case management, transportation to healthcare facilities, and low barrier access to behavioral health services. All special needs populations require individualized consideration. While many persons within the special needs population do not rely on governmental assistance, some do. Extensive engagement with these target populations and service providers was conducted to gain better understanding of these needs. Community surveys were administered to gain direct input from these populations. Engagement at key community events allowed for direct, personal feedback on needs. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 59 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Discuss the size and characteristics of the population with HIV/AIDS and their families within the Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area: According to Washington State’s 2024 HIV Surveillance report, there were 17 new cases in 2023, up from 9 new cases in 2022. Of these, 4 were a late HIV diagnosis and 14 received initial linkage to HIV care. There are 290 prevalent cases of HIV in Yakima County and 92% of cases are engaged in care. If the PJ will establish a preference for a HOME TBRA activity for persons with a specific category of disabilities (e.g., persons with HIV/AIDS or chronic mental illness), describe their unmet need for housing and services needed to narrow the gap in benefits and services received by such persons. (See 24 CFR 92.209(c)(2) (ii)) N/A Discussion: Non-homeless special needs populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, those living with HIV/AIDS, and those with behavioral health needs, require a range of supportive services to maintain stability and quality of life. The elderly often need assistance with daily living activities, healthcare access, transportation, and social engagement to prevent isolation. Individuals with disabilities may require accessible housing, specialized healthcare, employment support, and mobility assistance. Those living with HIV/AIDS benefit from medical care, case management, access to nutritious food, and supportive housing to ensure treatment adherence and overall well-being. Individuals with behavioral health needs require access to mental health services, stable housing, reliable transportation, and social supports to promote recovery and independence. Coordinated social services and community-based programs as well as low-barrier access to services that can address acute needs are critical to addressing these diverse needs. The city will work towards addressing these needs by targeting future funding towards public service opportunities. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 60 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) NA-50 Non-Housing Community Development Needs – 91.215 (f) Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Facilities: Through consultation with stakeholders, Yakima identified several critical public facility needs to enhance quality of life and support vulnerable populations. There is a need for affordable child care facilities with flexible hours, especially for households with non-traditional work schedules, as they are essential for supporting working parents and promoting economic stability. Stakeholder consultation revealed that a major concern for developing affordable childcare options is the insufficient compensation for childcare workers, which creates barriers to expanding quality care options. Additionally, there is strong need for the development and improvement of community and recreation facilities, particularly those that provide structured activities and safe spaces for youth and seniors. The city has made significant investments in park facilities improvements in recent years, addressing accessibility and recreational opportunities. There is also a continuing need for accessible, well- maintained parks that offer safe recreational opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities. An additional need identified through consultation is establishing day centers for individuals experiencing homelessness, which can serve as vital access points for services, rest, and respite during daytime hours. How were these needs determined? Through consultation with community stakeholders, advocates, and public outreach. Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Improvements: The community has identified several public improvement priorities aimed at enhancing accessibility, mobility, and environmental sustainability. High on the list is the need for improved transportation, including extended hours of operation to better serve residents with non-traditional work schedules. There is ongoing demand for upgraded sidewalks, with a focus on ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The city has made substantial progress in this area, completing sidewalk improvements that enhance ADA accessibility and connectivity. These projects demonstrate the City's commitment to creating accessible infrastructure that serves residents with disabilities and supports community mobility. How were these needs determined? Through consultation with community stakeholders, advocates, and public outreach. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 61 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Services: The community has identified a significant need for expanded access to supportive services, particularly in the areas of mental health and substance use treatment. There are not enough behavioral health providers, which results in long waits to access help. There is strong demand for housing and homeless-related services. The elderly and disabled typically need comprehensive support services related to health care including access to health services, home healthcare options, and supports related to aging in place such as home modification, home repair, and assistance with maintenance. The Emergency Repair Program helps elderly and disabled homeowners maintain housing stability through needed repairs. Public services are essential to promoting housing stability, improving individual well-being, and addressing the complex needs of vulnerable populations identified throughout the housing needs assessment process. How were these needs determined? Through data/study reviews, consultation with community stakeholders, advocates, and public outreach. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 62 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Housing Market Analysis MA-05 Overview Housing Market Analysis Overview: The Market Analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the environment in which the jurisdiction must administer its programs throughout the Consolidated Plan period. In conjunction with the Needs Assessment, the Market Analysis will provide the basis for the Strategic Plan and the programs and projects to be administered. The Housing Market Analysis provides information on: • Significant characteristics of Yakima’s housing market in general, including the supply, demand, condition, and cost of housing • Housing stock available to serve persons with disabilities and other special needs • Condition and need of public and assisted housing • A brief inventory of facilities, housing, and services to meet the needs of homeless persons • Regulatory barriers to affordable housing • Significant characteristics of the jurisdiction's economy The City of Yakima is the “Heart of Central Washington,” bounded by the Yakima River to the east and rolling orchards in west valley, serving as a center of the Yakima Valley’s agricultural prosperity for over125 years, and growing into a dynamic cultural, recreational, and economic hub of the region. With a population of 93,830 (2016-2020 ACS) the City of Yakima is the eleventh largest city in the State of Washington. However, despite this status Yakima still retains its rural character due to a strong agricultural base and a vibrant natural setting. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 63 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-10 Number of Housing Units – 91.210(a)&(b)(2) Introduction The United States needs more housing and more varied housing to meet households' needs throughout the country. Some economists estimate that one consequence of the 2008 foreclosure crisis was the slow rebound in home construction while household growth continued, resulting in the underproduction of housing by more than 3 million units. Although home production has recently been on the rise, building permits, one indicator of new housing supply, remain below historical averages and far below the level needed to eliminate the deficit in housing. The consequences of inadequate supply are higher housing costs for renting or buying a home. More than 37 million renter and owner households spent more than 30 percent of their income on housing in 2019. In the years prior to the pandemic, low-interest rates for mortgage loans and increasing incomes, not lower home values, had reduced owner cost burden. For renters, increasing incomes were matched by rising rents, maintaining cost burdens despite a strong economy. "Opportunities to Increase Housing Production and Preservation" HUD PD&R, September 7, 2021 According to the 2016-2020 ACS data summarized below, there are an estimated 24,904 total housing units, which is a slight increase of 254 units from the 2011-2015 ACS data from the previous Consolidated Plan. There are 22,954 occupied housing units (13,785 owner-occupied and 9,345 renter- occupied). The total number of vacant housing units is calculated at 1,950, which represents 7.8% of the total housing in the city. As shown in Table 31, single unit, detached dwellings (21,810) comprise 61% of the City's total housing inventory, while apartment buildings containing 2-4 dwelling units make up 13% of the City's housing stock. ACS data reports that 74% of owner-occupied dwelling units in Yakima are 3-bedroom or larger and only 3% are one-or no-bedroom units. In contrast, renter-housing is predominately 2-bedroom units at 38%, with 3 or more bedroom units being 28%, and one-bedroom or no bedroom units 33% of the rental units. Considering the household compositions and the vacancy rates, it will be important for the City to ensure the “right-size” affordable housing is developed. The need for larger units may be declining. All residential properties by number of units Property Type Number % 1-unit detached structure 21,810 61% 1-unit, attached structure 1,905 5% 2-4 units 4,650 13% Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 64 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Property Type Number % 5-19 units 2,490 7% 20 or more units 2,660 7% Mobile Home, boat, RV, van, etc. 2,240 6% Total 35,755 100% Table 27 – Residential Properties by Unit Number Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Unit Size by Tenure Owners Renters Number % Number % No bedroom 85 0% 1,750 11% 1 bedroom 490 3% 3,350 22% 2 bedrooms 4,125 22% 5,905 38% 3 or more bedrooms 13,715 74% 4,335 28% Total 18,415 99% 15,340 99% Table 28 – Unit Size by Tenure Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Describe the number and targeting (income level/type of family served) of units assisted with federal, state, and local programs. HUD programs provide assistance in three categories: public housing, tenant-based, and multifamily assisted or privately owned, project-based housing. Public housing is a form of project-based subsidy because households may receive assistance only if they agree to live at a particular public housing project. In public housing, local housing agencies receive allocations of HUD funding to build, operate, or improve housing. The local agencies own the housing. In Yakima, there are no public housing options. The Yakima Housing Authority, through the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program, converted all public housing to Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs). YHA administers 1,313 vouchers. An overview of units and populations served can be found on YHA’s website: YHA Services - Yakima Housing Authority Provide an assessment of units expected to be lost from the affordable housing inventory for any reason, such as expiration of Section 8 contracts. Does the availability of housing units meet the needs of the population? The current availability of housing units does not meet the demand of low- to moderate-income renters and homeowners. Renters are uniquely impacted by the rising value of single-family homes and Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 65 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) property lots. Landowners of single-family rentals are more likely to sell their rental investment property as housing values continue to rise, further reducing the number of available rental houses. Additionally, as housing prices increase, it becomes increasingly difficult for middle to moderate-income renters to transition to homeownership due to the higher monthly mortgage costs and downpayment requirements. It can be extremely challenging for extremely low to low-income renters to "compete" for a limited amount of rental housing. To mitigate this competition, the state of Washington includes protections against discrimination based on “source of income” under its fair housing laws. Washington’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Act was amended in 2018 to prohibit discrimination based on a tenant's source of income, which means landlords cannot refuse to rent to someone solely because they receive rental assistance, social security, or other public benefits as part of their income. Washington’s law also requires that if a landlord has specific income standards (such as income-to-rent ratios), they must consider a tenant’s subsidy or voucher as part of the income calculation. Additionally, the law created a mitigation fund to help landlords cover any damage beyond normal wear and tear, making it more appealing for landlords to accept tenants using housing vouchers or subsidies. However, there are still considerable challenges that impact enforcement and housing availability for low- and extremely low-income households. Even with anti-discrimination protections, there is a shortage of affordable housing units for low-income households. Some landlords may still try to circumvent source of income protections through subtle tactics, such as imposing strict screening criteria unrelated to income. For example, higher credit score requirements, background checks, and extensive rental history reviews can still prevent low-income applicants from securing housing, even when they have a voucher or other assistance. Additionally, enforcement can be challenging and tenants may be reluctant to report discrimination due to fear of retaliation or fear of losing the limited housing options available to them. Describe the need for specific types of housing: The City of Yakima needs affordable housing units that ensure that low- to moderate-income residents spend no more than 30% of their monthly income on housing expenses. While there is a monumental amount of new housing units in the community, it does not meet the financial needs of the community's residents most vulnerable to housing instability. It is critical to understand how the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) evaluates income within a community. HUD sets income limits that determine eligibility for assisted housing programs, including the Public Housing, Section 8 project-based, Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, Section 202 housing for the elderly, and Section 811 housing for persons with disabilities. HUD develops income limits based on Median Family Income estimates and Fair Market Rent area definitions for each metropolitan area, parts of some metropolitan areas, and each non-metropolitan county. The City of Yakima falls within the Yakima, WA MSA FMR Area. A family in Yakima is considered low- to moderate-income if they make Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 66 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • $51,300 as a single-person household • $60,700 as a two-person household • $68,300 as a three-person household • $75,850 as a four-person household • $81,950 as a five-person household • $88,000 as a six-person household Most residents in Yakima either have a close family member or have had an annual income qualifying them as low- to moderate-income. Residents who fall within these income categories may have unique difficulties. There is also a lack of “accessible” housing units in the City to address the needs of the physically disabled. Discussion There is a continuing need for “affordable” and “accessible” housing in the City of Yakima. Much of the existing housing is sound and there appears to be an adequate supply of market-rate housing. However, housing opportunities are lacking for the lower income renters and homebuyers in the City. Low-income homeowners with high housing cost burdens need housing rehabilitation programs to bring their dwellings up to code standards, make them energy efficient and help them reduce their cost burdens. Low-income renters with housing problems, including high housing cost burdens, need access to quality affordable rental housing. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 67 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-15 Housing Market Analysis: Cost of Housing - 91.210(a) Introduction The data presented in this section indicates that, within the City of Yakima, there is a diverse mix of housing in different price ranges for owner-occupied and rental dwelling units. However, conclusions about the availability of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households need to take into account additional factors such as the age and condition of this housing and the neighborhoods in which such housing is located. Housing needs to be both affordable and good quality and located within safe, stable residential neighborhoods. The median home value increased nearly 16% between the 2011-2015 ACS data, $157,700, and the 2016-2020 ACS data, $182,900. The median contract rent (using the same sources) increased 14% from $632/month to $721/month. Of the total number of occupied rental units, nearly 62% (9,440) were in the $500 to $999 category per month. An important consideration when estimating rental rates is the differing practices regarding the inclusion of utilities and fuels in rental payments. Gross rent accounts for these variations by combining the contract rent with the estimated average monthly cost of utilities (such as electricity, gas, and water/sewer) and fuels (including oil, coal, kerosene, wood, etc.), if they are paid by the renter or on the renter’s behalf. This approach ensures consistency by eliminating discrepancies related to the inclusion of these additional costs. Cost of Housing Base Year: 2009 Most Recent Year: 2020 % Change Median Home Value 156,700 182,900 17% Median Contract Rent 632 721 14% Table 29 – Cost of Housing Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2016-2020 ACS (Most Recent Year) Rent Paid Number % Less than $500 2,900 18.9% $500-999 9,440 61.6% $1,000-1,499 2,400 15.7% $1,500-1,999 440 2.9% $2,000 or more 165 1.1% Total 15,345 100.1% Table 30 - Rent Paid Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 68 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Housing Affordability Number of Units affordable to Households earning Renter Owner 30% HAMFI 635 No Data 50% HAMFI 3,700 1,065 80% HAMFI 9,675 5,145 100% HAMFI No Data 7,360 Total 14,010 13,570 Table 31 – Housing Affordability Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Homeowner Housing Stability The Federal Finance Housing Agency - FHFA House Price Index (FHFA HPI®) is a broad measure of the movement of single-family house prices. The FHFA HPI is a weighted, repeat-sales index, meaning that it measures average price changes in repeat sales or refinancings on the same properties. This information is obtained by reviewing repeat mortgage transactions on single-family properties whose mortgages have been purchased or securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac since January 1975. The FHFA HPI serves as a timely, accurate indicator of house price trends at various geographic levels. Because of the breadth of the sample, it provides more information than is available in other house price indexes. It also provides housing economists with an improved analytical tool that is useful for estimating changes in the rates of mortgage defaults, prepayments, and housing affordability in specific geographic areas. The population of Yakima is largely stagnant with little increase in wages. The FHFA HPI Calculator is available on the FHFA website and provides data on the increase of house prices in Yakima measured quarterly. A quick calculation for a home purchased in 2023 Quarter 1 for $182,900 and sold in 2024 Quarter 2 would have an appreciation of 9.8% and have an estimated value of $200,984. Continued housing cost increases will result in households that cannot maintain the aging housing stock, reduce the ability of renters to transition to homeownership, and cause the existing residents to be unable to purchase homes inside the city. Monthly Rent Monthly Rent ($) Efficiency (no bedroom) 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom Fair Market Rent 858 864 1,137 1,616 1,698 High HOME Rent 556 637 837 1,065 1,169 Low HOME Rent 556 609 731 845 942 Table 32 – Monthly Rent Data Source: HUD FMR and HOME Rents Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 69 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels? The lack of affordable housing impacts low- and moderate-income residents the greatest. The steadily increasing rent costs compound the financial struggles that these families are at risk of experiencing. Additionally, the growing need for new rental housing units and aged housing unit stock results in many renters living in substandard housing conditions. AFFORDABLE, BUT NOT AVAILABLE Homes that are affordable to extremely low-income renters are not necessarily available to them. In the private market, households can occupy homes that cost less than 30% of their incomes, and many do. When higher-income households occupy rental homes also affordable to lower-income households, they render those homes unavailable to the lower-income households. Extremely low-income renters must compete with all higher-income households for the limited number of rental homes affordable to them in the private market. To truly measure the housing options extremely low-income renters have, we must account for the fact that higher-income renters occupy some of the most affordable units. Rental homes are both affordable and available for households of a specific income group if the homes are affordable to them and they are not occupied by higher-income households. EXTREMELY LOW-INCOME RENTERS The vast majority of extremely low-income renters work in low-wage jobs or are unable to work. With wages insufficient to pay for modest rental housing even when individuals work full-time year-round, a brief furlough or loss of hours, as we have seen over the past year, can create debts that renters can never repay. Extremely low-income renters in the labor force, many already struggling to pay their rents before the pandemic, were significantly impacted by COVID-19. Low-wage work comprised a disproportionate share of industries most affected by COVID-19 shutdowns. Extremely low-income renters were likely impacted by the closures of restaurants, hotels, and other places of low-wage employment. The Gap, A Shortage of Affordable Homes, National Low Income Housing Coalition, March 2021 How is affordability of housing likely to change considering changes to home values and/or rents? With a median home value of $182,900, it appears that Yakima’s housing stock is “affordable” compared to state and national averages (state: $605,400; national: $420,500). However, given a stagnant population, current economic conditions, increase in the number of renters, and increase in rental rates, a variety of housing “affordability” issues need to be addressed: • Much of the affordable housing stock in Yakima is old and older houses are more expensive to maintain and often need rehabilitation; Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 70 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • LMI households in Yakima are shown to be cost burdened, and such households often have difficulties obtaining housing that is both affordable for their situation and in decent condition; and • It is likely that rental rates will continue to increase. Rental Housing Stability As the economy improves, rental prices continue to increase. The trend over the past decade has been a higher rental increase than the increase in monthly wages. As this trend continues, it puts more significant financial pressure on low- and moderate-income families who are spending an ever- increasing percentage of their income on housing costs. As higher-income renters and distressed homeowners seek cheaper alternatives to their current housing, competition for less expensive rental homes may actually increase. Meanwhile, few of the lowest-income renters have the option of leaving the rental market altogether. Consequently, rents for the least expensive homes may be less responsive to economic downturns, and in some cases, they could even increase because of greater demand. Even if rents at the bottom-end of the market fall during a downturn, they will not fall sufficiently to provide extremely low-income renters with an adequate supply of affordable housing. Owners have an incentive to abandon their rental properties or convert them to other uses when rental income is too low to cover basic operating costs and maintenance. They have little incentive to provide housing in the private market at rents that are affordable to extremely low-income renters. During periods of economic growth, the private market on its own still does not provide an adequate supply of rental housing affordable to low-income households. The rents that the lowest-income households can afford to pay typically do not cover the development costs and operating expenses of new housing. While new construction for higher-income renters encourages a chain of household moves that eventually benefits lower-income renters, new luxury units may not impact rents at the bottom of the market as much as they do rents at the top. The Gap, A Shortage of Affordable Homes, National Low Income Housing Coalition, March 2021 See attached for Homeowner Housing Stability discussion. How do HOME rents / Fair Market Rent compare to Area Median Rent? How might this impact your strategy to produce or preserve affordable housing? Since 1974 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has helped low-income households obtain better rental housing and reduce the share of their income that goes toward rent through a program that relies on the private rental market. A key parameter in operating the certificate and voucher programs is the Fair Market Rent (FMR). FMRs play different roles in the certificate and voucher programs. In both programs, FMRs set limits. In the certificate program, FMRs set limits on what units can be rented; in the voucher program, FMRs set limits on the subsidy provided to the household. Certificate program households cannot rent units with gross rents exceeding the FMR; the recipients receive a subsidy equal to the difference between the gross rent and 30 percent of their Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 71 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) incomes. Voucher program households receive a subsidy equal to the difference between the FMR and 30 percent of their monthly incomes. Participants in the voucher program can choose units to live in with gross rents higher than the FMR, but they must pay the full cost of the difference between the gross rent and the FMR, plus 30 percent of their income. FMRs are intended to ensure that rental assistance beneficiaries have access to safe, decent housing while balancing affordability with local market conditions. HUD updates FMRs annually, taking into account local rent surveys, inflation, and other economic factors. However, there is often a disconnect between market realities and funding regulations undermines the ability of programs to assist those in need and reduces the overall impact of rental assistance efforts. According to HUD’s 2024 Fair Market Rent data for the Yakima, WA Metropolitan Statistical Area, fair market rent for an efficiency apartment is $990; $997 for a one-bedroom; $1,310 for a two-bedroom. NOTE: FMR includes the cost of utilities; for a resident living in a one-bedroom unit, the FMR $913 is the total cost for rent AND utilities for that unit. These monthly FMRs are below the High and Low HUD HOME rent. Discussion The need is for the City to encourage the rehabilitation and preservation of existing rental housing to ensure that these affordable units are also in good condition. New construction of affordable rental housing may only be successful to the extent that the production of such units can be subsidized to enable them to remain affordable and to the extent that existing rental housing is seen as substandard and undesirable. Quality Affordable Homes Critical to Good Health Ensuring enough affordable homes are available can lead to healthier families and communities. When rents are high, families prioritize rent and utilities over food and health care, even when serious health conditions are part of the picture. Stable, safe, and well-maintained housing can also decrease exposure to environmental hazards like mold, lead, or pests, which are linked to chronic illnesses. Additionally, housing stability helps individuals maintain consistent access to healthcare providers and medications, leading to improved overall well-being and fewer emergency interventions. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 72 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-20 Housing Market Analysis: Condition of Housing – 91.210(a) Introduction Housing is a major element of people’s material living standards. It is essential to meet basic needs, such as for shelter from weather conditions and to offer a sense of personal security, privacy, and personal space. Good housing conditions are also essential for people’s health and affect childhood development. Housing is the key to reducing intergenerational poverty and increasing economic mobility. Research shows that increasing access to affordable housing is the most cost-effective strategy for reducing childhood poverty and increasing economic mobility in the United States. Stanford economist Raj Chetty found that children who moved to lower-poverty neighborhoods saw their earnings as adults increase by approximately 31%, an increased likelihood of living in better neighborhoods as adults, and a lowered likelihood of becoming a single parent. Moreover, children living in stable, affordable homes are more likely to thrive in school and have greater opportunities to learn inside and outside the classroom. Increasing access to affordable housing bolsters economic growth. Research shows that the shortage of affordable housing costs the American economy about $2 trillion a year in lower wages and productivity. Without affordable housing, families have constrained opportunities to increase earnings, causing slower GDP growth. In fact, researchers estimate that the growth in GDP between 1964 and 2009 would have been 13.5% higher if families had better access to affordable housing. This would have led to a $1.7 trillion increase in income or $8,775 in additional wages per worker. Moreover, each dollar invested in affordable housing boosts local economies by leveraging public and private resources to generate income—including resident earnings and additional local tax revenue—and supports job creation and retention. "The Problem," National Low Income Housing Alliance Describe the jurisdiction's definition of "standard condition" and "substandard condition but suitable for rehabilitation": For this Consolidated Plan, the City of Yakima will use the HUD housing quality standards as defined below: 1. Standard Condition. A unit of housing is considered to be in standard condition if it is generally in good repair, with no substandard habitability elements (i.e., lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities) or exterior elements. Such units may be eligible for housing rehabilitation funding if interior conditions are such that the HUD Section 8 Housing Quality Standards are not met, or a threat to the integrity or livability of the unit exists and should be addressed. Examples of ways in which the interiors of such homes might be rehabilitated include the replacement of heating systems, electrical system repairs or upgrades, plumbing system repairs or upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and accessibility improvements. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 73 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 2. Substandard Condition but Suitable for Rehabilitation. This category describes dwelling units that do not meet one or more of the HUD Section 8 quality standard conditions, likely due to deferred maintenance or work without permits, but that is both financially and structurally feasible for rehabilitation. Such units may be lacking complete plumbing and kitchen facilities and/or may have exterior elements in need of repair (e.g., a roof in need of replacement, siding in need of repair or replacement, missing or failing foundation). In order to be suitable for rehabilitation, the unit value generally exceeds the cost of repairs or upgrades that would be required to bring it to standard condition. This category of property does not include units that need correction or minor livability problems or maintenance work. 3. Substandard Condition and Not Suitable for Rehabilitation. This category describes dwelling units in such poor conditions as to be neither structurally nor financially feasible for rehabilitation. Such units will typically have an improvement value that is less than the cost of addressing the habitability and exterior elements that cause its classification as "substandard" or will be considered unfit to occupy for safety reasons by the city's building official. The table below displays the number of housing units, by tenure, based on the number of "conditions" the unit has. Selected conditions are similar to housing problems in the Needs Assessment: are (1) lacks complete plumbing facilities, (2) lacks complete kitchen facilities, (3) more than one person per room, and (4) cost burden greater than 30%. Condition of Units Condition of Units Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % With one selected Condition 4,485 24% 6,915 45% With two selected Conditions 145 1% 1,330 9% With three selected Conditions 0 0% 30 0% With four selected Conditions 0 0% 0 0% No selected Conditions 13,785 75% 7,065 46% Total 18,415 100% 15,340 100% Table 33 - Condition of Units Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Year Unit Built Year Unit Built Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % 2000 or later 2,040 11% 2,340 15% 1980-1999 3,110 17% 3,510 23% 1950-1979 7,895 43% 6,310 41% Before 1950 5,365 29% 3,185 21% Total 18,410 100% 15,345 100% Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 74 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Table 34 – Year Unit Built Data Source: 2016-2020 CHAS Risk of Lead-Based Paint Hazard Risk of Lead-Based Paint Hazard Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % Total Number of Units Built Before 1980 13,260 72% 9,495 62% Housing Units build before 1980 with children present 2,195 12% 740 5% Table 35 – Risk of Lead-Based Paint Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS (Total Units) 2016-2020 CHAS (Units with Children present) Vacant Units Suitable for Rehabilitation Not Suitable for Rehabilitation Total Vacant Units 0 0 0 Abandoned Vacant Units 0 0 0 REO Properties 0 0 0 Abandoned REO Properties 0 0 0 Table 36 - Vacant Units Data Source: 2005-2009 CHAS Need for Owner and Rental Rehabilitation <TYPE=[text] REPORT_GUID=[F8DC4D3147433947165558A235C46686] PLAN_SECTION_ID=[1313801000]> Estimated Number of Housing Units Occupied by Low or Moderate Income Families with LBP Hazards Environmental lead is a toxic substance affecting the growth and development of up to one million U.S. preschool children today, with effects ranging from learning disabilities to death. High lead levels can cause many health problems by damaging the brain, nervous system, and kidneys. Lead poisoning can cause decreased intelligence, behavioral and speech problems, anemia, decreased muscle and bone growth, poor muscle coordination, and hearing damage. Lead exposures remain prevalent despite considerable knowledge and increased screening and intervention efforts. Increased lead exposure and increased body burden of lead remain a significant problem for children in the United States. Lead is an environmental toxicant that may cause adverse health effects to the nervous, hematopoietic, endocrine, renal, and reproductive systems. Lead exposure in young children is particularly hazardous because children absorb lead more readily than adults. Many children exposed to lead do not exhibit any signs of the disease. The child's signs or symptoms could be mistaken for other Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 75 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) illnesses, and the child goes undiagnosed. The developing nervous system of children is particularly more susceptible to the effects of lead. The underdeveloped blood-brain barrier in young children increases the risk of lead entering the developing nervous system resulting in neurobehavioral disorders. Blood lead levels (BLLs) at any detectable level have been shown to cause behavioral and developmental disorders; therefore, no safe blood lead level in children has been identified. It is increasingly important for continued childhood lead poisoning prevention education and awareness. Lead-contaminated water, soil, and paint have been recognized as potential sources of children's lead exposure. Dust from deteriorating lead-based paint is considered the largest contributor to the lead problem. Until the 1950s, many homes were covered inside and out with leaded paints. Lead began to fall from favor in the 1950s but was still commonly used until it was banned in homes after 1977. Because of the long-term use of lead-based paints, many homes in the United States contain surfaces with paint that is now peeling, chalking, flaking, or wearing away. The dust or paint chips contain high levels of lead that easily find ways into the mouths of young children. A particular problem has emerged due to many homes with lead-based paints, which are now undergoing renovations. Often the dust created by this work has high lead levels, which are readily absorbed by the children's developing bodies. Yakima has a sizable amount of housing built before 1980 that has the potential to be hazardous to children. The 2016-2020 CHAS estimates that 22,755 units were built prior to 1980; approximately 2,935 of these units have children present. It’s important to note the number of unreported/undetected cases of childhood lead poisoning is unknown, and the low number of reported cases should not be misconstrued as evidence that lead poisoning is not more widespread. Discussion The high percentage of older units (built before 1980) in both owner and rental stock suggests a strong need for rehabilitation due to aging infrastructure, outdated systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), and potential health hazards (lead paint, asbestos, etc.). Housing rehabilitation funds should prioritize homes built before 1980, with special attention to pre-1950 homes, which are at higher risk of structural deterioration and environmental hazards. Some program considerations would be providing incentives or grants for repairs to improve rental properties. For homeowners, providing low-interest rehabilitation loans or grant will help maintain housing stability. Given the age of homes in the city, the risk of lead exposure remains a concern, particularly for young children who are most vulnerable to its harmful effects. Additionally, the true extent of childhood lead poisoning in Yakima is uncertain, as unreported or undetected cases may contribute to a more widespread issue than current data suggests. Therefore, efforts to assess and mitigate lead hazards in older housing should remain a priority for public health and housing initiatives. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 76 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-25 Public and Assisted Housing – 91.210(b) Introduction YHA only administers Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV’s); YHA does not operate public housing. According to YHA’s 2024 Annual Plan, YHA currently administers 1,312 HCV’s. The plan targets households with income under 50% of MFI, expanding housing opportunities with areas outside of poverty and minority concentrations. YHA currently has a “high” performance rating in the Section Eight Management Assessment Program (SEMAP). SEMAP measures the performance of the public housing agencies (PHAs) that administer the Housing Choice Voucher program in 14 key areas. SEMAP helps HUD target monitoring and assistance to PHA programs that need the most improvement. YHA’s progress on meeting its mission and goals described in its 5-year PHA Plan: Continue to maintain a "high performance rating in SEMAP - The Housing Authority currently has a "high" performance rating in SEMAP. Maintain a leasing or authorized budget authority utilization rate of not less than 98% for Section 8 - The Housing Authority's Section 8 utilization for calendar year 2023 is 104.61%. Increase Section 8 vouchers through requests for incremental and/or special needs vouchers - YHA received an award of JO additional Stability vouchers in coordination with the Balance of State Continuum of Care. Grow the home ownership program, utilizing Section 8 vouchers, for not less than 10 families- The Housing Authority has developed a home ownership program and is working in connection with development to create home ownership opportunities for its residents. Continue to house homeless through 100 project-based vouchers with our community partners - The Housing Authority has set aside 100 project-based vouchers for housing homeless throughout Yakima County. Continue to lease all remaining 93 VASH vouchers in connection with the Veteran's Affair Office- YHA has currently leased 72 VASH vouchers and is working with the Veteran's Affair Office to lease the remaining vouchers. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 77 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Lease the five Mainstream vouchers in coordination with the Spokane Housing Authority - YHA currently is administering 115 mainstream vouchers and the Spokane Housing Authority ported the remaining mainstream vouchers it administered in coordination with the Yakima Housing Authority. Work with our community partners to establish the Foster Youth Initiative- YHA created an MOU with its community partners and has currently housed five youth and is in the process of requesting and issuing and additional five vouchers. Preserve the Family Self-Sufficiency program for at least 125 families on Section 8 - YHA currently has 115 families enrolled in the program. Establish Supportive Employment to augment the Family Self-Sufficiency program - YHA established supportive employment and currently has 15 individuals enrolled in the program. Maintain compliance with all applicable program requirements - YHA received a repeat finding during the most recent audit for FY2022. The finding was related to understated assets, liabilities, and expenses as a result of a new development (a component unit of the Housing Authority). In addition, the YHA received a finding for understating the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards (SEFA). However, YHA outlined in its Corrective Action Plan that it has relied on outsourced fee accountants for proper recording of all development activities, financial statement and SEFA preparation, and reporting. YHA will establish a review process by an employee who understands Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and the Uniform Guidance to ensure accurate preparation and reporting of the financial statements total Federal awards expended. Totals Number of Units Program Type Certificate Mod-Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project -based Tenant -based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * # of units vouchers available 0 0 150 688 49 639 197 0 0 # of accessible units Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 78 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 37 – Total Number of Units by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Describe the supply of public housing developments: Describe the number and physical condition of public housing units in the jurisdiction, including those that are participating in an approved Public Housing Agency Plan: Yakima Housing Authority (YHA) has been designated as a “high performer” and reports the following in regards to physical conditions of public housing units: Despite having an older housing stock, all of the public housing developments are in good condition and consistently score well on inspections, including high marks under the NSPIRE standards. The buildings are fully up to code, and they are not experiencing chronic vacancies. Any vacancies that do occur are the result of normal unit turnover rather than issues with unit quality or demand. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 79 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Public Housing Condition Public Housing Development Average Inspection Score Table 38 - Public Housing Condition Describe the restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units in the jurisdiction: Describe the public housing agency's strategy for improving the living environment of low- and moderate-income families residing in public housing: YHA offers several resident services to improve the living environment of residents: • Family Self-Sufficiency Program: This program helps residents increase their skill levels, education, and employment, to become self-supporting. The FSS Program is open to households, with or without children. • Family Fun Night Community Resource Fair: This free community event will features dozens of vendors, providing an array of offerings from local community organizations and service providers. • Sharon Wandler Scholarship: Three scholarships will be awarded to candidates pursuing their first degree. One scholarship, which will be awarded to a returning college attendee, and two scholarships for High School Graduates or GED holder. • Moving to Work: Helps YHA to maximize the number of households served through the voucher program and making changes to the voucher program to make it more efficient to operate, more likely to increase the self-sufficiency, and housing choice as well as the required activities related to landlord incentives. Discussion: New Activities: • The Housing Authority intends to award up to 49 project-based vouchers for new construction within the City of Yakima. The proposal will be awarded based on its consistency with the HUD statutory goals of de-concentration of poverty and expanding housing and economic opportunities and the Housing Authority's priorities to support housing for homeless individuals, housing which provides supportive services to their residents and housing located in the City of Yakima that serves to expand housing and economic activities. • Move to Work (MTW) participation that will reduce cost and achieve greater cost effectiveness and give incentives to families with children whose heads of household are either working, seeking work, or participating in job training, education or other programs that assist in Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 80 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) obtaining employment. YHA aims to reduce the cost to administer the voucher program but getting rid or simplifying regulations and processes that are overly complicated and confusing to landlords, participants, and staff. Additionally, YHA will establish policies and provide resources that will enable stability and increase self-sufficiently. Lastly, YHA will explore changes that will increase landlord participation as well as policies that will all the voucher participants more choice. Detailed descriptions of the MTW activities can be found in YHA’s 2024 Annual Plan: https://yakimahousing.org/about/ Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 81 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-30 Homeless Facilities and Services – 91.210(c) Introduction Affordable housing has become increasingly difficult to secure as rent rates continue to rise and rental vacancy rates reach virtually zero. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered job loss and reduced wages, further adding to the housing instability of thousands of households throughout Idaho. Ultimately, homelessness is often the end result and does not happen by choice. Homelessness stems from a variety of factors: • Unemployment, • Unforeseen life changes, • Substance use, • Medical emergencies, • Domestic violence, or • Mental health issues. Housing instability is particularly challenging due to the limiting wage opportunity and other financial barriers. Nonprofits, community organizations, and response networks throughout Idaho continue to increase capacity, become more sophisticated, and collaborate in their efforts to provide housing and critical support services for the most disadvantaged among us. Often it is easy to see homelessness simply as someone living on the street. While this is the reality for some, it is not for the majority of those experiencing homelessness. The list below outlines the various definitions of homelessness, which often impact an individual’s eligibility for services. Imminent Risk of Homelessness: A person or family who will lose their primary nighttime residence within 14 days. Precariously Housed/at-risk of homelessness: A person or family who lack a fixed, regular nighttime residence or is being asked to leave their current living situation. This person likely has an income at or below 30% AMI and insufficient resources or support networks. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 82 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Fleeing/Attempting to Flee Domestic Violence: A person or family that is fleeing or is attempting to flee domestic violence, has no other residence, lacks resources or support networks, or does not have permanent housing. Literally Homeless: A person or a family who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence. Typically, this means living in a place not meant for habitation or in an emergency shelter. Chronically Homeless: A person or family who has experienced homelessness for at least 12 months consecutively or had 4 episodes of homelessness in the last 3 years (episodes that total 12 months or more)—while having a disabling condition. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 83 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Describe mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the extent those services are used to complement services targeted to homeless persons Within the City of Yakima, there is a focus on connecting homeless persons to the mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the extent those services are used to complement services targeted to homeless persons. Yakima has a variety of providers that work to support homelessness services, some of which are delivered by local governments and some by regional non-profits. Below are some key service providers, although this is not an exhaustive list: Health Services: Yakima Neighborhood Health Services – provides comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, and social service support. YNHS is also a coordinated entry access point and provides permanent supportive housing and medical respite care for literally homeless individuals and families. Yakima Lions Club – provides medical equipment Triumph Treatment Services – provides outpatient and residential substance use disorder and mental health treatment Domestic Violence Services: YWCA – provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, permanent housing, and legal services for victims and survivors of violence Aspen Victim Advocacy Services - advocacy, counseling, resource referrals for victims and survivors of violence Food Services: Several pantries are available including: Yakima Food Pantry, Rotary Food Bank, Fruitvale Community Market, and Yakima Seventh Day Adventist Food Bank Union Gospel Mission provides the Good News Café, offering free meals to community members Employment Services: Worksource Yakima, South County Workforce, and OIC offer workforce development services, including connecting job seekers to employment and business to job seekers. Salvation Army’s Pathways to Hope also provides employment services to individuals with barriers to employment. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 84 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) List and describe services and facilities that meet the needs of homeless persons, particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth. If the services and facilities are listed on screen SP-40 Institutional Delivery Structure or screen MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services, describe how these facilities and services specifically address the needs of these populations. Many of the services list above are inclusive to people experiencing homelessness. Facilities include, but are not limited to: Emergency Shelter, for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and need an immediate place to stay: • Union Gospel Mission - offers adult shelter beds and family shelter beds • YWCA DV Shelter – provides emergency shelter to individuals/families fleeing domestic violence Tenant Based Rental Assistance: • YHA - The Housing Authority received housing choice vouchers for individuals/families experiencing homelessness. Permanent Supportive Housing: • YHA provides permanent supportive housing for veterans (VASH) Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 85 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services – 91.210(d) Introduction Everyone needs safe, decent, stable housing. For some of the most vulnerable people in America — people with mental illness, chronic health conditions, histories of trauma, and other struggles — a home helps them to get adequate treatment and start on the path toward recovery. But some conditions make it difficult for people to maintain a stable home without additional help. Supportive housing, a highly effective strategy that combines affordable housing with intensive coordinated services, can provide that needed assistance. A broad body of research shows that supportive housing effectively helps people with disabilities maintain stable housing. People in supportive housing use costly systems like emergency health services less frequently and are less likely to be incarcerated. Supportive housing also can aid people with disabilities in getting better health care and help seniors trying to stay in the community as they age and families trying to keep their children out of foster care. Supportive housing is a highly effective strategy that combines affordable housing with intensive coordinated services to help people struggling with chronic physical and mental health issues maintain stable housing and receive appropriate health care. Permanence and affordability. Tenants generally pay no more than 30 percent of their income for rent. They have the same rights and responsibilities as other renters, such as having the lease in their name and the right to privacy in their unit, which means they cannot be evicted for reasons unrelated to being a good tenant. Integration. Individuals and families are able to live independently in apartments or single-family homes in residential neighborhoods. Tenants in supportive housing should have access to public transportation, grocery stores, parks, and other neighborhood amenities common to all other residents. (Less accessible services put tenants' housing and health at risk: if they are unable to travel to providers' offices, for instance, they may stop using the services.) Emphasis on choice. Supportive housing maximizes client choice, in clients' housing options and the services they receive. For instance, tenants can generally come and go as they please and have control over their daily schedule, like mealtimes and visitors. They also can direct the types of services they receive and the goals they set with the service provider. Low barriers to entry. Supportive housing providers do not require clients to hit benchmarks before moving into housing or put other screening barriers in the way. Blanket bans on people with criminal histories or bad credit, for example, or requirements to meet goals, like employment or completing a course of treatment, before entering supportive housing would screen out the very people supportive housing aims to help. Individuals and families are able to live independently in apartments or single- Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 86 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) family homes in residential neighborhoods. "Supportive Housing Helps Vulnerable People Live and Thrive in the Community" Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, May 31, 2016 Including the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, developmental), persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, public housing residents and any other categories the jurisdiction may specify, and describe their supportive housing needs Elderly and Frail Elderly. Supportive housing needs may include health care coordination and medication management, personal care assistance with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, and access to nutritious home-delivered meals. Reliable transportation is essential for attending medical appointments and running errands, while housekeeping and home maintenance support help ensure a safe living environment. Many older adults also benefit from case management and assistance with navigating benefits like Medicare or Social Security. To address social isolation and mental health challenges, services such as counseling and recreational programs are critical, along with accessibility modifications and emergency alert systems to support safety and mobility. Legal and financial guidance can further assist seniors in managing their affairs, particularly those living on fixed incomes. Disability. Individuals with disabilities often require a variety of supportive services to promote independence, stability, and overall well-being. These services may include assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, as well as care coordination to manage complex medical needs and access to specialized healthcare. Accessible transportation is crucial for attending appointments, securing employment, or participating in community life. Many also benefit from case management to navigate public benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, or housing assistance. Mental health services, peer support, and recreational opportunities can help reduce isolation and support emotional well-being. Home modifications such as wheelchair ramps, grab bars, or adaptive technologies may be necessary to ensure safety and accessibility within the home. Legal and financial advocacy may also be needed to protect rights and ensure long-term housing and income stability. Substance Use Disorders. Individuals with substance use disorders often require a range of supportive services to achieve stability, recovery, and long-term well-being. These services may include access to treatment programs such as outpatient counseling, medication-assisted treatment, or inpatient rehabilitation, as well as ongoing recovery support like peer mentoring and relapse prevention services. Case management is critical to help individuals navigate healthcare systems, obtain benefits, and secure stable housing. Mental health services are often essential, as many individuals experience co-occurring disorders that require integrated care. Transportation assistance can help ensure access to treatment, employment, and community resources. Additionally, employment support, life skills training, and legal advocacy can assist individuals in rebuilding their lives and maintaining long-term recovery. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 87 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Persons with HIV & AIDS. The Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) grants use general objectives to guide assistance. HOPWA programs can be accessed through the local CoC’s coordinated entry system; HOPWA services aim to: Increase the availability of decent, safe, and affordable housing for lower income persons with HIV/AIDS; Create and support affordable housing units for persons with HIV/AIDS by matching HOPWA resources through community planning for comprehensive housing strategies; Create partnerships and innovative strategies among local governments and non-profit organizations to identify and serve the housing and supportive services needs of persons with HIV/AIDS. Describe programs for ensuring that persons returning from mental and physical health institutions receive appropriate supportive housing <TYPE=[text] REPORT_GUID=[F8DC4D3147433947165558A235C46686] PLAN_SECTION_ID=[1350402000]> Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one-year goals. 91.315(e) Yakima, Washington, has a significant need for both affordable housing and supportive services, particularly for low-income individuals, and those at risk of becoming homeless. Various organizations and programs aim to address these needs, offering assistance with move-in costs, rental assistance, temporary shelter, and supportive services. Yakima County has a variety of social service providers addressing homelessness and other needs. The Yakima County CoC (Continuum of Care) coordinates efforts to combat homelessness, with various organizations providing direct services. Some key providers include The Salvation Army, Union Gospel Mission, Goodwill, and St. Vincent De Paul. Triumph Treatment Services also offers support for individuals and families dealing with substance abuse. Additionally, United Way of Central Washington serves Yakima and Kittitas counties, focusing on community well-being through donations. Additional Resources- • 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Washington and you will be connected to a comprehensive information and referral service for housing and other needs. • Yakima Housing Authority: Yakima Housing Authority was created to provide safe, decent, and sanitary housing for low- and moderate-income residents of the City of Yakima, Washington. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 88 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • Yakama Nation Housing Authority: The mission of the Yakama Nation Housing Authority is: To provide safe, decent, affordable, and healthy housing for the families of the Yakama Nation. • Apartment Finder: aptfinder.org is a non-profit website formed to connect low-income households with affordable apartment communities throughout Washington State. Listings are voluntarily advertised on the site by owners and managers of rental apartments for low-income households whose annual income is below 80% of area median income. The City of Yakima is designing an application process to provide critical public services to vulnerable residents. This is an evolving process and is expected to move forward in PY25. For entitlement/consortia grantees: Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one-year goals. (91.220(2)) Public Service is a listed project for PY25. The City of Yakima is designing an application process to provide critical public services to vulnerable residents. This is an evolving process and is expected to move forward in PY25. Housing Stability and Aging in Place: Assisting senior citizens, disabled residents with home repairs to enable them to age in place safely and maintain independence. Homeownership Sustainability: Assisting low- and moderate-income residents with emergency housing rehabilitation to help sustain their homeownership status and prevent displacement. Community Infrastructure: Improving parks, recreation facilities, and sidewalks for low-income communities and increasing the accessibility of those facilities for persons with disabilities. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 89 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-40 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.210(e) Negative Effects of Public Policies on Affordable Housing and Residential Investment Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 90 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-45 Non-Housing Community Development Assets – 91.215 (f) Introduction Yakima’s economy has deep roots in agriculture, driven by the development of irrigation infrastructure and railroads since the early 20th century. As Washington State’s leading agricultural county, Yakima produces more apples, hops, corn, spearmint, peppermint, grapes, and wine grapes than any other region in the state. This booming agricultural base underpins local fruit processing industries and remains the central pillar of economic activity. Yakima has begun to diversify its economy. Public services, healthcare, and education have become major employers. The region has also placed strategic emphasis on manufacturing, logistics, and value-added agri-businesses, aided by institutions like the Yakima County Development Association (YCDA/New Vision) and local economic development agencies. The median household income is somewhat below national average and there are persistent cost-of-living and housing burdens. Recognizing these challenges, recent city and county plans prioritize infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, and business retention and recruitment to foster resilience and inclusive growth. Economic Development Market Analysis Business Activity Business by Sector Number of Workers Number of Jobs Share of Workers % Share of Jobs % Jobs less workers % Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas Extraction 8,176 6,169 25 15 -10 Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations 3,619 4,677 11 11 0 Construction 1,630 1,406 5 3 -2 Education and Health Care Services 6,392 11,697 19 29 10 Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 982 1,444 3 4 1 Information 423 542 1 1 0 Manufacturing 3,014 3,581 9 9 0 Other Services 807 1,183 2 3 1 Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 91 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Business by Sector Number of Workers Number of Jobs Share of Workers % Share of Jobs % Jobs less workers % Professional, Scientific, Management Services 1,238 1,413 4 3 -1 Public Administration 0 0 0 0 0 Retail Trade 4,053 6,132 12 15 3 Transportation and Warehousing 902 692 3 2 -1 Wholesale Trade 1,830 1,789 6 4 -2 Total 33,066 40,725 -- -- -- Table 39 - Business Activity Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS (Workers), 2020 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (Jobs) Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 92 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Labor Force Total Population in the Civilian Labor Force 42,020 Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 39,410 Unemployment Rate 6.21 Unemployment Rate for Ages 16-24 17.14 Unemployment Rate for Ages 25-65 3.66 Table 40 - Labor Force Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Occupations by Sector Number of People Management, business and financial 5,840 Farming, fisheries and forestry occupations 2,255 Service 4,170 Sales and office 8,165 Construction, extraction, maintenance and repair 6,200 Production, transportation and material moving 3,470 Table 41 – Occupations by Sector Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Travel Time Travel Time Number Percentage < 30 Minutes 31,273 84% 30-59 Minutes 5,096 14% 60 or More Minutes 963 3% Total 37,332 100% Table 42 - Travel Time Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Education: Educational Attainment by Employment Status (Population 16 and Older) Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force Less than high school graduate 6,905 695 3,300 Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 93 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force High school graduate (includes equivalency) 8,155 455 3,440 Some college or Associate's degree 9,735 365 3,080 Bachelor's degree or higher 6,705 90 790 Table 43 - Educational Attainment by Employment Status Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Educational Attainment by Age Age 18–24 yrs 25–34 yrs 35–44 yrs 45–65 yrs 65+ yrs Less than 9th grade 310 535 1,780 2,950 1,300 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 2,560 1,890 1,635 2,115 1,205 High school graduate, GED, or alternative 3,195 4,175 3,010 4,875 3,410 Some college, no degree 2,330 2,670 2,780 4,110 3,660 Associate's degree 650 1,190 935 1,540 960 Bachelor's degree 395 1,685 1,160 1,970 2,060 Graduate or professional degree 59 610 680 1,475 1,505 Table 44 - Educational Attainment by Age Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Educational Attainment – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Less than high school graduate 24,460 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 29,205 Some college or Associate's degree 33,825 Bachelor's degree 50,054 Graduate or professional degree 67,742 Table 45 – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Data Source: 2016-2020 ACS Based on the Business Activity table above, what are the major employment sectors within your jurisdiction? The largest employment sector is Education and Health Care Services, which accounts for 29 percent of all jobs in the area. This sector employs 11,697 individuals but is supported by only 6,392 resident Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 94 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) workers, resulting in a 10 percent positive gap. This suggests that the sector likely draws workers from outside the area or that there is a local shortfall in qualified labor. Retail Trade and Agriculture are the second-largest sector, comprising 15 percent of jobs, followed by Arts, Entertainment, and Accommodations at 11 percent. While Retail Trade and arts/entertainment show a relatively balanced workforce-to-jobs ratio, Agriculture has a significant negative gap, indicating more resident workers than local jobs. Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community: The connection between workforce development and economic development cannot be overstated. Businesses cannot grow, innovate, or compete effectively without a skilled and reliable workforce. • Skilled Labor Shortages: Industries, particularly agriculture and potentially manufacturing, face challenges in attracting and retaining skilled labor. The aging workforce and competition for skilled workers in various sectors across Washington state contribute to the problem. • H2A Worker Reliance and Domestic Worker Retention: Agriculture heavily relies on H2A workers, but domestic workers are leaving the industry for better opportunities and stability, leading to significant workforce declines in key growing areas like Yakima. • Job seeker support: • Efforts to provide stable housing, affordable childcare, and access to healthy food are crucial to help job seekers enter and remain in the workforce. • Public Infrastructure Investment: Continued investment in public infrastructure, including transportation and utilities, is vital for economic growth, market access, reduced trade costs, and overall business operations. Describe any major changes that may have an economic impact, such as planned local or regional public or private sector investments or initiatives that have affected or may affect job and business growth opportunities during the planning period. Describe any needs for workforce development, business support or infrastructure these changes may create. Several recent developments and initiatives in Yakima may significantly impact job and business growth: • Public Infrastructure Funding Program (SIED): Yakima County's SIED program provides grants and loans for public infrastructure projects like roads, water, and sewer. This supports private investment and job creation. Since 1999, the program has invested over $48 million in 125 local projects. This has supported companies that have invested over $385 million and created over 2150 new jobs. In 2023, the SIED board invested $7,072,991. This program provides a foundation for economic development. • Airport Terminal Modernization: Phase I of a $70 million project to modernize the Yakima Air Terminal has been launched. This aims to meet growing air travel demand, improve passenger Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 95 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) experience, and position the airport as a hub for aviation technologies and cargo operations. The SIED Board has approved funding, recognizing its regional economic significance. • Community Reinvestment Plan (CRP): The Yakima Valley Community Foundation, with the Washington State Department of Commerce, is distributing over $1.5 million in CRP funds across Yakima County. These funds support programs like Chismecito y Cafecito, a networking group for Hispanic entrepreneurs, which provides business growth training and resources. • Workforce Development Initiatives: Efforts are underway to align educational resources with employer needs, with a focus on skill enhancement in sectors like agriculture, food processing, and trade. The Yakima County Development Association (YCDA) also provides no-cost Bilingual Business Accelerator Programs for business owners. Plans are in place to expand these opportunities. State investments in workforce development programs like EcSA and CRP have shown a positive return on investment by increasing earnings for participants and generating revenue for the state. • Economic Diversification and Industry Trends: While agriculture remains a key part of the economy, diversification is needed. Efforts include promoting tourism around wineries and outdoor recreation, supporting agribusiness growth, and assisting small businesses through entrepreneurial programs. Healthcare and educational services are also growing sectors, providing jobs and workforce stability. Manufacturing and retail trade continue to be significant in the local economy. How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment opportunities in the jurisdiction? • Mid-Level Skills Gap: There's a shortage of graduates for mid-level occupations requiring education beyond high school but less than a four-year degree. The largest gaps are in computer and information science (computer support specialists, software programmers, etc.), technician roles (primarily in science-related fields), and education (teacher assistants, preschool teachers, etc.). • Aging Workforce and Skilled Trades: An aging workforce in skilled trades like construction and manufacturing creates opportunities but also necessitates a focus on training and attracting new talent to fill those roles. • Focus on Workforce Development: Yakima County emphasizes initiatives to enhance skills, especially in agriculture, food processing, and trade-related industries, to ensure a competitive local workforce. • Strong Educational and Healthcare Sectors: These sectors provide stability to the workforce, potentially offering pathways for individuals interested in those areas. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 96 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) • Agricultural and Manufacturing Base: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing remain the largest industry sector in Yakima, followed by manufacturing. Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce Investment Boards, community colleges and other organizations. Describe how these efforts will support the jurisdiction's Consolidated Plan. Yakima Valley College offers workforce programs for high-wage occupations. Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships- As a state-funded organization, AJAC provides structured apprenticeships (a combination of on-the-job training and college-level classes) at no-cost to employers looking to find new talent, grow the skills of their employees, and retain the individuals who help create the products developed in the Yakima Valley. South Central Workforce Development Council- The SCWDC is the Washington State policy board for workforce programs for region IX. They are a customer-driven workforce development system delivering easily accessible, high-quality training and placement services for job seekers and employers. Does your jurisdiction participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)? Yes If so, what economic development initiatives are you undertaking that may be coordinated with the Consolidated Plan? If not, describe other local/regional plans or initiatives that impact economic growth. <TYPE=[text] REPORT_GUID=[F8DC4D3147433947165558A235C46686] PLAN_SECTION_ID=[1370705000]> Discussion Yakima's workforce development strategy recognizes that many workers possess highly transferable foundational skills—customer service, time management, problem-solving, and adaptability—that can be effectively "crosswalked" into higher-wage, more resilient industries. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 97 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-50 Needs and Market Analysis Discussion Are there areas where households with multiple housing problems are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration") For the purposes of this analysis, concentration is defined as census tracts or block groups where the percentage of households experiencing multiple housing problems exceeds the jurisdiction average by 10 percentage points or more, or where the rate is 1.5 times the jurisdiction average, whichever is lower. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) identifies four main housing problems: 1. Lacking complete kitchen facilities 2. Lacking complete plumbing facilities 3. Overcrowding (more than one person per room, excluding bathrooms, porches, etc.) 4. Cost burden (monthly housing costs exceeding 30% of monthly income) A household is categorized as having a housing problem if it experiences at least one of these four issues. While current data does not identify areas that meet the above definition, see attached maps/charts for insight on neighborhood poverty rates. Are there any areas in the jurisdiction where racial or ethnic minorities or low-income families are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration") According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), an area with households with multiple housing problems concentrated is often described in terms of Racially or Ethnically Concentrated Areas of Poverty (R/ECAPs) Racial/ethnic concentration threshold: A non-white population of 50 percent or more, or A poverty rate of 40 percent or more, or meeting an alternative criterion set by HUD. The City of Yakima has identified R/ECAP areas. See attached map. What are the characteristics of the market in these areas/neighborhoods? These central areas of the City tend to have more renter households than owner households, with some block groups having significantly more than half the households as renters. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 98 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) With insufficient access to public transportation late evenings and early mornings in Yakima, residents may have limited options for getting to and/or keeping jobs with non-standard work hours. Some of the City’s low- and moderate-income neighborhoods have fewer neighborhood-level commercial or other service activities (medical offices, grocery stores). The R/ECAP area identified as having high concentrations of minority populations also has a high percentage of low- and moderate-income households. Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods? The areas of concentration closest to the downtown core and have access to public transportation. Recreational facilities have undergone upgrades and improvements, though additional upgrades/investment are warranted. Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas? The city will work with partners to identify opportunities to access tax credit, and other affordable housing funding for revitalization and affordable housing construction. There is good potential to expand critical resource accessibility. Staff will continue to explore connectivity to services as a priority. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 99 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) R/ECAP area map Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 100 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-60 Broadband Needs of Housing occupied by Low- and Moderate-Income Households - 91.210(a)(4), 91.310(a)(2) Describe the need for broadband wiring and connections for households, including low- and moderate-income households and neighborhoods. Broadband access in communities helps provide economic growth, improved educational opportunities, access to better healthcare, greater employment opportunities, improving public safety, and increased global competitiveness for businesses. The term broadband commonly refers to high-speed Internet access that is always on and faster than traditional dial-up access. Broadband includes several high-speed transmission technologies such as digital subscriber line (DSL), cable modem, fiber, wireless, satellite, and broadband over powerlines (BPL). Research among Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries shows that a 4 Mbps increase in household broadband speed is associated with a roughly 4 percent increase in household income. Â Research shows that businesses who begin utilizing broadband increase their employees' labor productivity by an average of 5 percent in the manufacturing sector and 10 percent in the services sector. The current standard for broadband in the U.S. is internet with a 25 Mbps (Megabits per second) download speed. Â Though Netflix says it needs only 5 Mbps to stream video, the 25 Mbps threshold is intended to satisfy the different needs; high-quality downloads, video communication, and multiple demands of a single household's network. However, many Americans are still unable to access broadband at the speeds necessary to make full use of its benefits. HUD is actively working to bridge the digital divide in low-income communities served by HUD by providing help with the expansion of broadband infrastructure to low- and moderate-income communities. In December 2017, HUD published the final rule, "Narrowing the Digital Divide Through Installation of Broadband Infrastructure in HUD-Funded New Construction and Substantial Rehabilitation of Multifamily Rental Housing." The final ruling requires installing broadband infrastructure at the time of new construction or substantial rehabilitation of multifamily rental housing funded or supported by HUD. Additionally, CDBG entitlement communities must analyze the broadband needs for housing occupied by low- and moderate-income households. Multiple low-medium-cost internet connectivity options are available within Yakima. Maps with additional information are attached. Competition for residential customers has kept prices reasonable, typically starting between $30 and $50/month. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 101 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Yakima Valley Libraries offer computers for use up to 60 minutes each day they are open. Most libraries also offer free access to wireless internet. This can be especially vital for households experiencing short or long term lack of household internet access. Excellent cellular network coverage is also available in most Yakima locations. This may offer additional low-cost "hot-spot" opportunities for network customers. All three of the largest carriers, have a presence in the area. Smaller providers are also present in the City of Yakima. Describe the need for increased competition by having more than one broadband Internet service provider serve the jurisdiction. The most recent ACS data (2019-2023) estimates that 12% of households within the City of Yakima lack a broadband connection. This can be attributed to many factors, though cost and availability in areas of the city likely play a role. Recent Census data show over 90% of households nationwide have a broadband connection. Additional competition, including expanded areas served by fiber, could help keep broadband costs low and potentially reduce the lowest-cost options. Mobile Broadband Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 102 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Fixed Broadband Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 103 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) MA-65 Hazard Mitigation - 91.210(a)(5), 91.310(a)(3) Describe the jurisdiction’s increased natural hazard risks associated with climate change. The Pacific Northwest is predicted to see increased temperatures year-round, resulting in more warm days in the summer. According to the Washington Climate Change Impacts Assessment, this increase will average .5°F per decade. A consistent increase in temperatures due to the changing climate will likely result in more extreme heat events across Yakima County and eastern Washington Increases in evaporation rates, due to rising temperatures, may increase the rate of soil moisture loss and the intensity of naturally occurring droughts. From the Yakima County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan of 2022 -Research on climate change and public health indicates a connection between the change in climate and the frequency of infectious diseases. Mild and warmer temperatures allow for population increases in vectors that infect animals. According to the CDC, mild winters, early springs, and warmer temperatures are giving mosquitoes and ticks more time to reproduce, spread diseases, and expand their habitats throughout the United States. Yakima County Vulnerabilities A public health emergency resulting from a disease can have significant impacts to Yakima County, resulting in loss in every facet of Yakima County, including human health and safety, critical infrastructure, government and emergency operations, economy, and cultural resources. The 2018 Washington State HMP indicated less than 3% of Yakima County’s population is in medium or higher wildfire exposure areas. Vulnerable populations to wildfire include people who have been marginalized and/or disproportionally impacted by chronic poverty and inequality, have certain disabilities, or other access and functional needs. Emphasized by research, wildfires pose additional stress to vulnerable people because these populations may not have the resources to combat the negative impacts of fire. They may also be more exposed, including those in unsuitable housing conditions or with lower incomes and subsequently fewer resources for fuel reduction and other mitigation measures. Wildfire impacts are exacerbated due to secondary hazards, such as impacts from smoke and poor air quality, which can cause health issues to populations inhaling the toxins in the air. Describe the vulnerability to these risks of housing occupied by low- and moderate-income households based on an analysis of data, findings, and methods. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 104 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) The Yakima County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, completed in early 2022, outlines the following information - Yakima County has a very high vulnerability based on the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). Social vulnerability is driven by social and demographic factors within the community, including high poverty rates, limited access to healthcare, technology, and transportation, and other factors. Individuals who are socially vulnerable are at greater risk to contract and experience severe symptoms from a disease or virus. While public health emergencies tend to have a widespread impact on a population, but some residents are at more risk than others. At-risk populations include: • Children aged 5 and younger • Adults older than 65 years • Pregnant women • Individuals with chronic medical conditions (i.e., asthma, heart failure, obesity, etc.) • People with compromised immune systems (i.e., diabetes, HIV, cancer, etc.) Extreme Temperatures: Extreme temperatures can impact the entirety of Yakima County, including Yakima. Vulnerable populations include people living in nursing homes or care facilities, elderly, people working outside, and people experiencing homelessness. Given that drought can impact the entire county, all Yakima County residents, workers, and visitors can be vulnerable. According to the 2018 Washington State HMP, “almost 50% of the population with medium or higher drought exposure is also ranked medium or higher on social vulnerability.”35 This number fluctuates depending on the severity of drought in the County. As hotter days, ranging over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, increase in the future, there is an expected increase of heat related illness. Yakima County’s agricultural workers and anyone who works or lives outside are especially vulnerable to this threat, given their high exposure to the sun. Heat exposure can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, characterized by dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and lightheadedness. Dehydration is common, particularly where extreme heat and high humidity combine. Small increases in temperatures can lead to heat-related deaths, especially for vulnerable community members with underlying medical conditions. Just over 15% of Yakima County’s total population is exposed to a 100-year flood event, and approximately 2.7% are exposed to a 500-year flood event. However, more than 5% of the county’s most vulnerable population (based on a social vulnerability index) resides in the 100-year floodplain, the highest percentage in the state, according to the 2018 Washington State HMP. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 105 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) According to the 2018 Washington State HMP, less than 10% of Yakima County’s vulnerable population is in medium or higher severe winter storm or weather exposure areas. However, groups of people experiencing homelessness or with unsuitable housing, people with access and functional needs or disabilities, and low-income families are highly vulnerable to the impacts of severe winter storms. Health Disparities Determinants Risk Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 106 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Strategic Plan SP-05 Overview Strategic Plan Overview The Strategic Plan serves as a planning document that outlines the anticipated resources from CDBG and HOME funding, program income, and other sources over the course of five years. Additionally, a series of goals is described, illuminating how the City will prioritize available financial resources, geographic priorities, and expected outcomes. Priorities and goals were determined through analysis of multiple data sources: • Comprehensive community surveys and meetings • Interview and consultation with area stakeholders • Staff recommendations • Results of previous monitoring of subrecipients • HUD Annual Homeless Assessment Report • HUD Worst Case Housing Needs • Policy Map, Community Profile • HUD Community Resiliency Kit • Community Housing Assessment Strategy (CHAS) data • American Housing Survey (AHS) data • American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates • City Studies and Plans Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 107 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-10 Geographic Priorities – 91.215 (a)(1) Geographic Area Table 46 - Geographic Priority Areas 1 Area Name: Yakima Citywide Area Type: Comprehensive Other Target Area Description: Comprehensive HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries for this target area. Include specific housing and commercial characteristics of this target area. How did your consultation and citizen participation process help you to identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. What are the opportunities for improvement in this target area? Are there barriers to improvement in this target area? General Allocation Priorities Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdiction (or within the EMSA for HOPWA) Both Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment funds are used citywide. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 108 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-25 Priority Needs - 91.215(a)(2) Priority Needs Table 47 – Priority Needs Summary 1 Priority Need Name Provide Decent Housing Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Areas Affected Comprehensive Associated Goals Administration and Planning Housing Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 109 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Description A decent place to live removes the barriers to opportunity, success, and health that have been part of a family's life for years, if not generations. Creating safe and decent places to live can have incredibly positive effects on a family's health, students' study habits, and a neighborhood's overall attractiveness and stability. Decent housing includes a spectrum of solutions: new construction, repair and renovation, housing finance, infrastructure development, and secure land tenure, among others. Basis for Relative Priority Providing people with a range of housing choices has many positive aspects – both for the community in general and for individual families. As individuals and families move from one stage of life to the next, various housing types enable them to live in a place that suits their needs while allowing them to reside in the same community, keeping those ties and staying close to family members if they desire. 2 Priority Need Name Create A Suitable Living Environment Priority Level High Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 110 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Large Families Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Non-housing Community Development Geographic Areas Affected Comprehensive Associated Goals Administration and Planning Housing Public Services Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Description A good living environment is essential for a good quality of life. A functional and sound living environment enables different people to lead their daily lives and fulfill their basic needs, including living, services, working, recreation, hobbies, rest, and privacy. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 111 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Basis for Relative Priority Jobs, family income, transportation costs, and housing are intricately connected. New research has demonstrated that stable families, communities, and housing have a positive impact on economic vitality. Providing opportunities for workers to live in the city where they work has a positive effect on in-commuting and reduces transportation costs. Improvements to infrastructure and parks in eligible neighborhoods can have a significant impact on long-term livability. 3 Priority Need Name Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Large Families Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Non-housing Community Development Geographic Areas Affected Comprehensive Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 112 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Associated Goals Administration and Planning Housing Public Services Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Description Expanding opportunities for low- and moderate-income persons helps to foster local economic advancement, neighborhood improvement, and individual self- sufficiency. Basis for Relative Priority Expanding opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents helps residents become financially stable and remain in safe and stable housing. Narrative (Optional) The City of Yakima seeks to encourage viable community development by promoting integrated approaches that provide decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expand economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income persons. The primary means towards this end is the development of partnerships among all levels of government and the private sector, including for-profit and non-profit organizations. Housing and community development are not viewed as separate programs but rather as the various elements that make up a comprehensive vision of community development. Needs were identified to align with HUD CDBG objectives. The listed needs cover each of the critical areas identified by community stakeholders. This narrative section, while optional, does help to frame the goals and projects outlined elsewhere in this plan. Discreet activities are identified once the plan is approved and are a function of the reporting side of IDIS. Needs identified correlate directly to goals identified elsewhere in the following way: Provide Decent Housing The need for decent, affordable housing is the focus of the housing goal, as well as public services. The City of Yakima will work with stakeholders to identify opportunities to develop, build, and preserve affordable housing, and work to provide supportive services to decrease housing insecurity among the most vulnerable city residents. Create a Suitable Living Environment Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 113 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) This need will be addressed by both the public service, housing and public facility/infrastructure improvement goals. The city is working with community stakeholders to identify critical, unmet public service needs; identify opportunities to help LMI residents stay in their homes through housing rehab, thereby preserving affordable housing; and undertaking ADA and other infrastructure and facility improvements to create a more suitable living environment for Yakima's LMI residents. Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons This need, in the short term, will be addressed by increasing access to facilities and infrastructure with necessary improvements, along with access to funding resources. This may include sidewalk installation, park upgrades, direct assistance to homebuyers, and other activities associated with expanded physical and financial access for LMI Yakima residents. Planning and Administration are considered to support each need, goal, and project outlined in this Consolidated Plan. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 114 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-30 Influence of Market Conditions – 91.215 (b) Influence of Market Conditions Affordable Housing Type Market Characteristics that will influence the use of funds available for housing type Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Due to limited resources and staff capacity, the City of Yakima does not operate a TBRA program. Referrals to other agencies, including Yakima Housing Authority help residents secure needed resources. TBRA for Non- Homeless Special Needs Due to limited resources and staff capacity, the City of Yakima does not operate a TBRA program. Referrals to other agencies, including Yakima Housing Authority help residents secure needed resources. New Unit Production The City of Yakima collaborates with CBDO and other affordable housing development organizations, prioritizing the addition of new units. These partnerships have been successful in leveraging limited funds for development. HOME-ARP funding also supported the development of new units targeted to qualifying populations. The city will continue these partnerships through this Consolidated Plan cycle. Rehabilitation The City of Yakima Office of Neighborhood Development Services will continue to operate and manage an emergency repair program targeted to eligible homeowners. This program has been successful in helping LMI homeowners with critical repairs, allowing them to continue enjoying their homes in a healthy and safe manner. The city also operates a ramp program targeted at senior and disabled residents, allowing them increased safe access to continue living in their homes. This rehabilitation will continue to be offered. Funding may also be available to affordable housing partners to rehabilitate existing housing. This helps keep critical affordable units in service for the foreseeable future. Acquisition, including preservation With development partners, the city explores acquisition opportunities to increase affordable housing in Yakima. Table 48 – Influence of Market Conditions HAMFI in Yakima A family in Yakima is considered low- to moderate-income (80% HAMFI) if their annual income is; $53,100 as a single-person household Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 115 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) $60,700 as a two-person household $68,300 as a three-person household $75,850 as a four-person household $81,950 as a five-person household $88,000 as a six-person household Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 116 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-35 Anticipated Resources - 91.215(a)(4), 91.220(c)(1,2) Introduction The City of Yakima prioritized goals and objectives for using CDBG and HOME funding to strategically and effectively benefit low- and moderate- income residents by increasing decent housing, creating a suitable living environment, and expanding opportunities. The City of Yakima follows HUD guidelines and limits public services to no more than 15% and administration to 20% of the annual entitlement. Anticipated Resources Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ CDBG public - federal Acquisition Admin and Planning Economic Development Housing Public Improvements Public Services 1,023,311 20,000 1,440,000 2,483,311 4,093,244 Formula grants for housing and community development activities. Beneficiaries must have low- or moderate-income (up to 80% AMI), or reside in a low/moderate-income neighborhood. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 117 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ HOME public - federal Acquisition Homebuyer assistance Homeowner rehab Multifamily rental new construction Multifamily rental rehab New construction for ownership TBRA 502,273 50,000 497,000 1,049,273 2,009,088 Formula grants to implement local housing strategies. Tenants served must be below 60% AMI; homeownership activities for households up to 80% AMI. Requires 25% non- federal matching funds. Table 49 - Anticipated Resources Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Notice CPD-97-03: HOME Program Match Guidance provides guidance on identifying eligible sources of match, calculating the value of matching contributions, determining the point at which a contribution may be recognized as match, and tracking matching obligations and contributions. Projects with firm financial commitments, including leveraged dollars, will have priority over those with pending, tentative, or speculative commitments. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 118 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) If appropriate, describe publicly owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Publicly owned lands have not yet been identified to help address the needs of this plan. Yakima will continue to explore opportunities to access viable public lands whenever possible, helping to address critical needs identified in this 5-year Consolidated Plan. Discussion The City of Yakima assists subrecipients and developers in applying for other available funds and leveraging resources to implement community development and housing activities. The limited city HOME funds regularly provide gap financing for projects awarded Low-Income Housing Tax Credit or other federal and state funding to support affordable housing. Opportunities to leverage federal funds are explored with each proposed activity. Additional points will be awarded during application scoring to proposals that have identified match resources. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 119 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-40 Institutional Delivery Structure – 91.215(k) Explain the institutional structure through which the jurisdiction will carry out its consolidated plan including private industry, non-profit organizations, and public institutions. Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Type Role Geographic Area Served CITY OF YAKIMA Government Homelessness Non-homeless special needs Jurisdiction Table 50 - Institutional Delivery Structure Assess of Strengths and Gaps in the Institutional Delivery System The City of Yakima, along with surrounding jurisdictions, benefits from a Coordinated System to identify housing options for households and a Continuum of Care network of experienced multi-service agencies. The providers serving City of Yakima residents have a commitment to best practices for high HMIS system data quality. Coordination of services for vulnerable populations and coordinated engagement of service providers ensures quality resource sharing and service referrals. The City of Yakima struggles with having enough affordable rental options for households with rental barriers or low incomes. The availability of resources to meet the needs identified in this Consolidated Plan is a constraint. The City of Yakima continues to assess ways to increase affordable housing through planning, coordination, and conversation with developers and social service partners. Availability of services targeted to homeless persons and persons with HIV and mainstream services Homelessness Prevention Services Available in the Community Targeted to Homeless Targeted to People with HIV Homelessness Prevention Services Counseling/Advocacy X X X Legal Assistance X Mortgage Assistance Rental Assistance X X Utilities Assistance X Street Outreach Services Law Enforcement X Mobile Clinics Other Street Outreach Services X Supportive Services Alcohol & Drug Abuse X Child Care X Education X Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 120 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Employment and Employment Training X Healthcare X X HIV/AIDS X X Life Skills X X X Mental Health Counseling X X X Transportation X Other Table 51 - Homeless Prevention Services Summary Describe how the service delivery system including, but not limited to, the services listed above meet the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) In Yakima, a coordinated and collaborative approach has been established to ensure that both targeted and mainstream services are accessible to homeless individuals, including chronically homeless persons, families with children, veterans and their families, unaccompanied youth, and persons living with HIV/AIDS. Targeted Homeless Services: Through the Continuum of Care (CoC), Yakima helps support key service providers offering a range of interventions, including outreach, emergency shelter, and transitional housing, Coordinated Entry is utilized to assess and prioritize individuals based on vulnerability and need, ensuring equitable access to the most appropriate services. Mainstream Health & Behavioral Health Services: Homeless individuals and families have access to mainstream services through partnerships with providers. These organizations offer physical and behavioral health services, including mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and primary care, regardless of an individual’s ability to pay. Outreach workers and housing navigators often assist clients in connecting to these services. Persons living with HIV/AIDS can access housing and supportive services through targeted programs such as the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program, which operates regionally. The Yakima Health District offers services and support through an office in Yakima. HIV services include referrals, education and advocacy in Washington, access to medical care, case management, and housing assistance are often coordinated through partnerships with local service providers and other health agencies. These individuals also benefit from general CoC housing programs and may be prioritized when they meet criteria for vulnerability. The City of Yakima continues work to strengthen the integration between homeless and mainstream services through coordinated planning, shared data systems (e.g., HMIS), and cross-sector partnerships to reduce barriers and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 121 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Describe the strengths and gaps of the service delivery system for special needs population and persons experiencing homelessness, including, but not limited to, the services listed above The City of Yakima’s service delivery system for special needs populations and persons experiencing homelessness is strengthened by a network of collaborative partners committed to addressing housing instability, health disparities, and barriers to self-sufficiency. Housing, behavioral health, physical health, employment, and supportive services providers work closely through coordinated entry, case management models, and regular cross-sector planning efforts. This collaboration has fostered a person-centered approach to care, ensuring that services are more responsive and aligned with individual needs. The Continuum of Care remains committed to providing provider coordination efforts, quality HMIS data and training, robust coordinated entry opportunities, and other support and cooperative efforts for community service providers. One of the most significant challenges faced is the increased acuity among persons seeking services. Many individuals and families entering the system are presenting with higher levels of need, including severe mental health conditions, substance use disorders, chronic health issues, and long-term unsheltered homelessness. This increased acuity strains the capacity of existing programs, particularly in areas like behavioral health treatment, intensive case management, and permanent supportive housing. Providers report longer lengths of stay in programs, higher staff burnout, longer wait times for services, and limited housing options for those with the most complex needs. While the system is well-coordinated, gaps remain in specific service areas, including youth-specific housing and supports, culturally specific services, and long-term housing solutions for medically fragile individuals. The region's lack of affordable housing further compounds these challenges and limits successful exits from homelessness. Provide a summary of the strategy for overcoming gaps in the institutional structure and service delivery system for carrying out a strategy to address priority needs Despite the gaps identified, Yakima’s service delivery system continues to evolve through strong leadership, community engagement, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Targeted investments in cross-training among providers and system-level coordination efforts are ongoing strategies to close the gaps and better serve the most vulnerable populations. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 122 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-45 Goals Summary – 91.215(a)(4) Goals Summary Information Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 1 Administration and Planning 2025 2029 Affordable Housing Public Housing Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs Non-Housing Community Development Yakima Citywide Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $1,023,310 HOME: $251,135 Other: 5 Other Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 123 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 2 Housing 2025 2029 Affordable Housing Yakima Citywide Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $4,253,245 HOME: $2,807,226 Rental units constructed: 10 Household Housing Unit Rental units rehabilitated: 2 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Added: 5 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 150 Household Housing Unit Direct Financial Assistance to Homebuyers: 10 Households Assisted 3 Public Services 2025 2029 Affordable Housing Public Housing Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs Non-Housing Community Development Yakima Citywide Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $650,000 Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 500 Persons Assisted Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 124 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 4 Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities 2025 2029 Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs Non-Housing Community Development Yakima Citywide Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $650,000 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 750 Persons Assisted Table 52 – Goals Summary Goal Descriptions Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 125 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 1 Goal Name Administration and Planning Goal Description General Administrative funds will pay reasonable program administrative costs and carrying charges related to planning and executing community development activities. Administering federal funds and ensuring compliance is critical for utilizing Federal resources. Yakima is committed to using CDBG entitlement funding for administration to help continue growing an efficient, effective, and resourceful community development program. Yakima may have administration and planning projects that include, but are not limited to: • General management, oversight, and coordination • Providing local officials and citizens with information about the CDBG program • Preparing budgets and schedules • Preparing reports and other HUD-required documents • Program planning • Public Information • Monitoring program activities • Fair Housing activities • Submission of applications for Federal Programs Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 126 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 2 Goal Name Housing Goal Description The City prioritized goals and objectives for using CDBG and HOME funding to strategically and effectively benefit low- and moderate-income residents by increasing access to decent housing and creating a suitable living environment while expanding economic opportunities for LMI persons. Yakima is committed to improving and expanding access to safe and affordable housing for low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents. Affordable and safe housing helps to provide financial stability, reduces the chances of a person becoming homeless, and promotes housing sustainability. Yakima's projects to improve housing sustainability may include, but are not limited to: • Rehabilitation (single-unit residential and/or multi-family residential) • The administrative cost for rehabilitation activities • Lead-based paint testing/abatement • Homeownership Housing Development and Construction Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 127 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 3 Goal Name Public Services Goal Description Public services are an integral part of a comprehensive community development strategy. Public Service activities provide a wide range of activities that address needs in the community provided for the target population. Public services can strengthen communities by addressing the needs of specific populations. They can address a range of individual needs and increase the impact of CDBG dollars by complementing other activities. Yakima may allocate up to 15% of CDBG funds to public services programs that provide supportive services to low- to moderate-income persons or prevent homelessness. In general, these services are provided by local non-profit partners. This funding is capped at 15% of the CDBG entitlement. Yakima’s goal to improve and provide public services may include, but is not limited to: • Services for Homeless Persons • Services to help prevent homelessness • Child care • Health services • Substance use services • Services for Domestic Violence Victims Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 128 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 4 Goal Name Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Goal Description Neighborhood Improvements will focus on safe and accessible infrastructure essential to the quality of life and building communities that support community diversity and stability. Public infrastructure improvements will generally include the acquisition, construction, reconstruction, and installation of public infrastructure. Yakima’s goal to improve and expand public infrastructure may include, but is not limited to: • ADA Improvements • Sidewalks • Curb cuts • Park and Open Space Improvements Public Facilities and Improvements are publicly-owned facilities and infrastructure such as streets, playgrounds, underground utilities, and buildings owned by nonprofits open to the general public. Safe and accessible infrastructure is essential to the quality of life and building communities that support community diversity and stability. Public facilities and public improvements are generally interpreted to include all facilities and improvements that are publicly owned or owned by a nonprofit and open to the general public. Acquisition, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, and installation of public facilities and improvements are eligible activities. Yakima's goal to improve and expand public facilities may include, but is not limited to: • Senior Centers • Homeless and Domestic Violence Facilities • Neighborhood Facilities • Health Facilities Estimate the number of extremely low-income, low-income, and moderate-income families to whom the jurisdiction will provide affordable housing as defined by HOME 91.315(b)(2) Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 129 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-50 Public Housing Accessibility and Involvement – 91.215(c) Need to Increase the Number of Accessible Units (if Required by a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law, codified at 29 U.S.C. § 794, that prohibits discrimination based on disability in federally-assisted programs or activities. Specifically, Section 504 states, "No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States. . .shall, solely by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program, service or activity receiving federal financial assistance or under any program or activity conducted by any Executive agency or by the United States Postal Service." This means that Section 504 prohibits discrimination based on disability in any program or activity that receives financial assistance from any federal agency, including HUD, as well as in programs conducted by federal agencies, including HUD. An individual with a disability is any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The term physical or mental impairment may include, but is not limited to, conditions such as visual or hearing impairment, mobility impairment, HIV infection, developmental disabilities, drug addiction, or mental illness. In general, the definition of "person with disabilities" does not include current users of illegal controlled substances. However, individuals would be protected under Section 504 (as well as the ADA) if the purpose of the specific program or activity is to provide health or rehabilitation services to such individuals. The term major life activity may include, for example, seeing, hearing, walking, breathing, performing manual tasks, caring for one's self, learning, speaking, or working. This list is not exhaustive. Section 504 also protects persons with a record of such impairment or who are regarded as having such an impairment. The Yakima Housing Authority is not under a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement. Activities to Increase Resident Involvements The PHA, Yakima Housing Authority (YHA), facilitates a Resident Advisory Board (RAB). The RAB provides input and review of plans, documents, upcoming YHA projects, and needs of the YHA resident communities. The board is reflective of the resident community and a vital partner with YHA staff. YHA offers learning opportunities and programs, and facilitates community offerings to residents and voucher holders. Is the public housing agency designated as troubled under 24 CFR part 902? No Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 130 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Plan to remove the ‘troubled’ designation N/A Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 131 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-55 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.215(h) Barriers to Affordable Housing Strategy to Remove or Ameliorate the Barriers to Affordable Housing The City of Yakima actively works to reduce barriers to affordable housing development. This includes working with developers to decrease upfront costs. The Office of Neighborhood Development Services (ONDS) actively partners with local and regional agencies, working to locate affordable units in Yakima. These partnerships include funding when gaps are identified. Developers regularly contact ONDS to discuss opportunities and are skilled at securing other state and federal funding for activities in Yakima. Rehabilitation activities provide low-income homeowners with the opportunity to stay safely housed in a healthy and suitable environment. The residents who access the rehabilitation program would not typically have an affordable option for emergency repairs, and could be in danger of becoming unhoused due to critical needs, if the program did not exist. Affordable housing will remain a priority throughout this Consolidated Plan cycle. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 132 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-60 Homelessness Strategy – 91.215(d) Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs The City of Yakima's strategic plan goals include involvement in the Yakima County Continuum of Care Plan as a city policy. The plan outlines the continuum of programs and services required to move a family or individual from homelessness to independent living and self-sufficiency. The Continuum of Care Plan guides the ONDS's use of resources to reduce the number of homeless households by keeping as many senior and disabled homeowners as possible from becoming displaced through Emergency Rehabilitation Assistance. The first priority of the Continuum of Care is to maintain existing resources that serve the needs of the homeless within the community, while the City of Yakima continues to concentrate of keeping it's Elderly, Frail Elderly and Disabled homeowners within their homes and from becoming homeless and adding to the Continuum of Care's burden in assisting the Homeless. Addressing the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City of Yakima continues to work closely with Yakima Continuum of Care in addressing emergency shelters and transitional housing needs of homeless persons with technical assistance through its Planning Department and Office of Neighborhood Development Services. Involvement is committees and collaborative resource sharing are key components in assisting agencies and organization address the transitional housing needs of Yakima residents. Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again. The City of Yakima will continue to invest the limited resources available to support housing development, including transitional and permanent supportive housing. HOME-ARP funds have been invested in activities that help secure stable, long term housing solutions for homeless Yakima residents. ONDS staff will continue to seek opportunities to partner with affordable housing organizations to support the critical needs of Yakima's homeless. It can be difficult to build our way out of a homelessness problem. Providing funding to housing that includes supportive services can help bridge the gap. Help low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families who are likely to become homeless after being Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 133 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) discharged from a publicly funded institution or system of care, or who are receiving assistance from public and private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education or youth needs Discharge coordination in Yakima and Yakima County is handled through the CORE (Community- Oriented Re-Entry) program. CORE is a team approach to re-entry and discharge planning with access to tenant-based housing assistance and mainstream services throughout the Yakima County Homeless Service Center. Yakima County criminal justice, substance abuse and mental health systems have a Crisis Triage Center to coordinate services for people with mental health and/or substance abuse disorders who tend to cycle through the jail and the hospital emergency department. The CORE team members collaborate with Yakima County Homeless Services Center's rapid exit coordinator and housing specialist to provide housing solutions. Washington State Department of Corrections Reentry programs offer various forms of support, including job training, educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Coordinated Entry is the county-wide intake, prioritization, and referral system used to get resources to those with the highest need, regardless of where they are. Coordinated Entry takes a "no wrong door" policy by offering multiple Access Points across the community. Once an individual experiencing homelessness completes a Coordinated Entry intake at any of the county-wide Access Points, they will be eligible for services from across a confidential network of providers. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 134 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-65 Lead based paint Hazards – 91.215(i) Actions to address LBP hazards and increase access to housing without LBP hazards Lead poisoning is the most significant and prevalent disease of environmental origin among children living in the United States. Lead exposures remain prevalent despite considerable knowledge and increased screening and intervention efforts. Environmental lead is a toxic substance that affects the growth and development of up to one million U.S. preschool children today, with effects ranging from learning disabilities to death. High levels of lead can cause many health problems by damaging the brain, nervous system, and kidneys. Lead poisoning can cause decreased intelligence, behavioral and speech problems, anemia, decreased muscle and bone growth, poor muscle coordination, and hearing damage. Increased lead exposure and increased body burden of lead remain a significant problem for children in the United States. Lead is an environmental toxicant that may cause adverse health effects to the nervous, hematopoietic, endocrine, renal, and reproductive systems. Lead exposure in young children is particularly hazardous because children absorb lead more readily than adults. Many children exposed to lead do not exhibit any signs that they have the disease. Any signs or symptoms the child may have could be mistaken for other illnesses, and the child goes undiagnosed. Children's developing nervous system is particularly susceptible to the effects of lead. The underdeveloped blood-brain barrier in young children increases the risk of lead entering the developing nervous system resulting in neurobehavioral disorders. Blood lead levels (BLLs), at any detectable level, have been shown to cause behavioral and developmental disorders. Therefore, no safe blood lead level in children has been identified. It is increasingly important for continued childhood lead poisoning prevention education and awareness. Lead-contaminated water, soil, and paint are potential sources of children's lead exposure. Dust from deteriorating lead-based paint is considered to be the largest contributor to the lead problem. Until the 1950s, many homes were covered inside and out with leaded paints. Lead began to fall from favor in the 1950s but was still commonly used until it was banned from use in homes after 1977. Because of the long-term use of lead-based paints, many homes in the United States contain paint surfaces that are now peeling, chalking, flaking, or wearing away. The dust or paint chips contain high levels of lead that easily find ways into the mouths of young children. A particular problem has emerged due to a large number of homes with lead-based paints, which are now undergoing renovations. Often the dust created by this work has high lead levels, which are readily absorbed by the children's developing bodies. The City of Yakima housing rehabilitation program will continue during this CP cycle. By providing emergency rehabilitation assistance to eligible Yakima residents, the city will support housing stock preservation for vulnerable households. Yakima staff manage rehabilitation internally, with qualified staff, to rehab pre-1978 homes as part of this project. The city and any needed contractors will utilize the LSHR Toolkit forms and guidance to ensure all lead hazards related to rehabilitation are properly addressed. This project will assist in addressing lead hazards in homes assisted. The city will also share Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 135 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) lead hazard information with applicants, including those on any wait list or households not subsequently enrolled in the project. How are the actions listed above related to the extent of lead poisoning and hazards? The above actions are taken to ensure that homeowners receiving assistance with CDBG-funded housing rehabilitation are protected from exposure to lead hazards. How are the actions listed above integrated into housing policies and procedures? The City is required to comply with HUD lead-safe housing rule (LSHR). Additionally, the City has lead- based paint policies and procedures that outline compliance with LSHR. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 136 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-70 Anti-Poverty Strategy – 91.215(j) Jurisdiction Goals, Programs and Policies for reducing the number of Poverty-Level Families The City of Yakima continues to collaborate with key local public and private agencies in developing a unified vision for area economic development, guiding and coordinating local actions that promote or expand living-wage job opportunities. By continuing to take action, when possible, to promote activities that support increased self-sufficiency through stable housing and public services, and providing a more suitable physical environment, the city helps address poverty in our area. How are the Jurisdiction poverty reducing goals, programs, and policies coordinated with this affordable housing plan The goals and strategies outlined in the Consolidated Plan for CDBG and HOME funding, which primarily address housing and human services, most often directly address these poverty issues. Yakima funding (CDBG and general fund) supports multiple public and human service programs, including transitional living, services for the mentally ill, and CDBG and HOME funding for permanent and transitional housing development, as well as housing rehabilitation. All of these initiatives align with the goals and strategies of reducing poverty. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 137 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) SP-80 Monitoring – 91.230 Describe the standards and procedures that the jurisdiction will use to monitor activities carried out in furtherance of the plan and will use to ensure long-term compliance with requirements of the programs involved, including minority business outreach and the comprehensive planning requirements Yakima staff will work closely with HUD to ensure that all statutory requirements are met and that the information reported in the City's CAPER is accurate and complete. Additionally, city staff will participate in regular online and on-site HUD training, when available. Monitoring is an ongoing, two-way communication process between the city and recipients. The goal of monitoring is to encourage the completion of projects within the contract period while ensuring that project objectives are met. Successful monitoring involves frequent telephone contacts, written communications, analysis of reports and audits, and periodic meetings. Monitoring is the principal means by which the city: • Ensures that HUD-funded programs and technical areas are carried out efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations • Assists subrecipients in improving their performance, developing or increasing capacity, and augmenting their management and technical skills • Stays abreast of the efficacy and technical areas of HUD CDBG and HOME programs. • Documents the effectiveness of programs administered by the subrecipients. The city performs a risk assessment of subrecipients to identify which subrecipients require comprehensive monitoring. High-risk subrecipients include those that are: • New to the CDBG and/or HOME programs; • Experience turnover in key staff positions or change in goals or directions; • Encountering complaints and/or bad press; • Previous compliance or performance problems including failure to meet schedules, submit timely reports, or clear monitoring or audit findings; • Carrying out high-risk activities (economic development, job creation, etc.); • Undertaking multiple CDBG or HOME-funded activities for the first time The City and CDBG and HOME subrecipients are held accountable to program goals through a range of monitoring and timeliness activities. Monitoring Visits: The city will conduct an annual visit or desk monitoring of all subrecipients. On-site visits may include an on-site interview, inspection of financial and client records relating to the CDBG or HOME funding provided, evaluation of the subrecipient's performance, analysis of the strengths and Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 138 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) weaknesses of the program, assurance that activities comply with the Action Plan, and a report by the subrecipients of any needs, such as technical assistance or areas for program enhancement. Evaluating Performance: Performance is measured against the goals identified in the initial CDBG or HOME subrecipient agreement. During the annual monitoring visit, the subrecipient has an opportunity to explain how goals and objectives for the year were achieved or why their goals were not reached. A follow-up letter to each subrecipient concludes the annual monitoring visit process. The letter summarizes the findings of the visit, and a copy is kept on file for reference. Financial Management: Financial management oversight activities are also conducted each time a subrecipient requests reimbursement. City staff will verify that the subrecipient has started their program and is progressing toward their goals before approving a reimbursement request. Subrecipients also must submit the appropriate documentation to be reimbursed. Data Management: The City will update the program and financial information in the Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS) regularly to meet HUD's Timeliness requirements. The city will obtain program information from the monthly or quarterly reports received from the CDBG and/or HOME subrecipients. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 139 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Expected Resources AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2) Introduction The City of Yakima prioritized goals and objectives for using CDBG and HOME funding to strategically and effectively benefit low- and moderate- income residents by increasing decent housing, creating a suitable living environment, and expanding opportunities. The City of Yakima follows HUD guidelines and limits public services to no more than 15% and administration to 20% of the annual entitlement. Anticipated Resources Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ CDBG public - federal Acquisition Admin and Planning Economic Development Housing Public Improvements Public Services 1,023,311.00 20,000.00 1,440,000.00 2,483,311.00 4,093,244.00 Formula grants for housing and community development activities. Beneficiaries must have low- or moderate-income (up to 80% AMI), or reside in a low/moderate-income neighborhood. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 140 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Remainder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ HOME public - federal Acquisition Homebuyer assistance Homeowner rehab Multifamily rental new construction Multifamily rental rehab New construction for ownership TBRA 502,272.76 50,000.00 497,000.00 1,049,272.76 2,009,088.00 Formula grants to implement local housing strategies. Tenants served must be below 60% AMI; homeownership activities for households up to 80% AMI. Requires 25% non- federal matching funds. Table 53 - Expected Resources – Priority Table Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Notice CPD-97-03: HOME Program Match Guidance provides guidance on identifying eligible sources of match, calculating the value of matching contributions, determining the point at which a contribution may be recognized as match, and tracking matching obligations and contributions. Projects with firm financial commitments, including leveraged dollars, will have priority over those with pending, tentative, or speculative commitments. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 141 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) If appropriate, describe publicly owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Publicly owned lands have not yet been identified to help address the needs of this plan. Yakima will continue to explore opportunities to access viable public lands whenever possible, helping to address critical needs identified in this 5-year Consolidated Plan. Discussion The City of Yakima assists subrecipients and developers in applying for other available funds and leveraging resources to implement community development and housing activities. The limited city HOME funds regularly provide gap financing for projects awarded Low-Income Housing Tax Credit or other federal and state funding to support affordable housing. Opportunities to leverage federal funds are explored with each proposed activity. Additional points will be awarded during application scoring to proposals that have identified match resources. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 142 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Annual Goals and Objectives AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives Goals Summary Information Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 1 Administration and Planning 2025 2029 Affordable Housing Public Housing Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs Non-Housing Community Development Yakima Citywide Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $204,662.00 HOME: $50,227.00 Other: 1 Other 2 Housing 2025 2029 Affordable Housing Yakima Citywide Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $1,978,649.00 HOME: $999,045.76 Rental units constructed: 2 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Added: 1 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 30 Household Housing Unit Direct Financial Assistance to Homebuyers: 3 Households Assisted Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 143 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 3 Public Services 2025 2029 Affordable Housing Public Housing Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs Non-Housing Community Development Yakima Citywide Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $150,000.00 Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 75 Persons Assisted 4 Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities 2025 2029 Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs Non-Housing Community Development Yakima Citywide Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons CDBG: $150,000.00 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 150 Persons Assisted Table 54 – Goals Summary Goal Descriptions 1 Goal Name Administration and Planning Goal Description 2 Goal Name Housing Goal Description Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 144 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 3 Goal Name Public Services Goal Description 4 Goal Name Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Goal Description Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 145 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Projects AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d) Introduction Staff first reviews applications to ensure they meet all federal program requirements before evaluating them for selection and funding. A risk analysis is completed for each activity prior to funding. Projects # Project Name 1 2025 Administration and Planning 2 2025 HOME Housing Development/Preservation and CHDO Set-Aside 3 2025 CDBG Housing Rehabilitation and Preservation 4 2025 Public Services 5 2025 Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Table 55 – Project Information Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs Federal CDBG funds are intended to provide low-and moderate-income households with viable communities, including decent housing, a suitable living environment, and extended economic opportunities. Eligible activities include housing rehabilitation and preservation, homeownership opportunities, public services, community infrastructure improvements, planning, and administration. The system for establishing the priority for the selection of these projects is predicated upon the following criteria: • Meeting the statutory requirements of the CDBG and HOME programs • Meeting the needs of low- and moderate-income residents • Coordination and leveraging of resources • Response to expressed community needs • Sustainability and/or long-term impact, and • The ability to demonstrate measurable progress and success. The primary obstacles to meeting underserved needs are the limited resources available to address identified priorities. When feasible, the City of Yakima will partner with other public agencies and nonprofit organizations to leverage resources and maximize outcomes in housing and community Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 146 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) development. In the end, however, the need far exceeds the funding available from all sources combined Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 147 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) AP-38 Project Summary Project Summary Information Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 148 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 1 Project Name 2025 Administration and Planning Target Area Yakima Citywide Goals Supported Administration and Planning Needs Addressed Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons Funding CDBG: $204,662.00 HOME: $50,227.00 Description General Administrative funds will pay reasonable program administrative costs and carrying charges related to planning and executing community development activities. Administering federal funds and ensuring compliance is critical for utilizing Federal resources. Yakima is committed to using CDBG and HOME funding for administration to help continue growing an efficient, effective, and resourceful community development program. The City of Yakima may have administration and planning projects that include, but are not limited to: General management, oversight, and coordination Providing local officials and citizens with information about the CDBG program Preparing budgets and schedules Preparing reports and other HUD-required documents Program planning Public Information Monitoring program activities Fair Housing activities Submission of applications for Federal Programs Target Date 6/30/2026 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities All residents in Yakima benefit directly or indirectly from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) programs. Location Description Activities will be undertaken citywide. Planned Activities The city has planned for administrative services which include providing technical assistance, planning activities, and general administrative services for PY25. These activities are scheduled to date, and the city may make changes as needed that fit the description of this project. 2 Project Name 2025 HOME Housing Development/Preservation and CHDO Set-Aside Target Area Yakima Citywide Goals Supported Housing Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 149 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Needs Addressed Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons Funding HOME: $999,045.76 Description Development of new rental or homeowner housing and preservation of existing rental housing in the City of Yakima. Target Date 6/30/2026 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities It is estimated that 3-4 LMI households will benefit from this project in PY25. Location Description Activities may be undertaken citywide. Planned Activities Rental Construction/Rehabilitation, Homeowner Housing Development, Homebuyer Assistance, CHDO Operating Funds. Other eligible activities may be undertaken if funding allows. 3 Project Name 2025 CDBG Housing Rehabilitation and Preservation Target Area Yakima Citywide Goals Supported Housing Needs Addressed Provide Decent Housing Create A Suitable Living Environment Funding CDBG: $1,978,649.00 Description CDBG Homeowner housing rehabilitation and preservation will provide critic rehab support for eligible households. Target Date 6/30/2026 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities It is estimated that at least 30 LMI homeowner households will benefit from this project. Location Description Activity may be undertaken citywide. Planned Activities Emergency/Critical eligible home repairs and ramp installation for seniors/disabled. Project Name 2025 Public Services Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 150 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) 4 Target Area Yakima Citywide Goals Supported Public Services Needs Addressed Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons Funding CDBG: $150,000.00 Description Public services are an integral part of a comprehensive community development strategy. Public Service activities provide a wide range of activities that address needs in the community, provided for the target population. Public services can strengthen communities by addressing the needs of specific populations. They can address various individual needs and increase CDBG dollars by complementing other activities. The City of Yakima may allocate up to 15% of CDBG funds to public services programs that provide supportive services to low- to moderate-income persons or prevent homelessness. In general, these services are provided by local non-profit partners. This funding is capped at 15% of the CDBG entitlement plus program income from the previous year. Target Date 6/30/2026 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities It is estimated that over 75 individuals and/or families will benefit from homeless and other special needs services, referral and direct service, and other eligible public service resources. Beneficiaries will include LMI Yakima residents in need of support. Location Description Activities may be undertaken citywide. Planned Activities The City of Yakima may allocate up to 15% of CDBG funds to public services programs that provide supportive services to low- to moderate- income persons or prevent homelessness. In general, these services are provided by local non-profit partners. This funding is capped at 15% of the CDBG entitlement plus program income from the previous year. All public service activities will serve eligible residents, meet a national objective, and have a corresponding matrix code. 5 Project Name 2025 Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Target Area Yakima Citywide Goals Supported Neighborhood Improvements and Public Facilities Needs Addressed Create A Suitable Living Environment Expand Opportunities for LMI Persons Funding CDBG: $150,000.00 Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 151 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Description Neighborhood Improvements may support sidewalk and park upgrades in eligible service areas. Public facilities funding support may fund the acquisition and renovation of key facilities providing support to LMI City of Yakima residents. Other eligible activities may be undertaken if funding allows. Target Date 6/30/2026 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities It is estimated that 1500 Yakima residents will benefit from project activities during PY25. Location Description Activities may be undertaken citywide. Planned Activities Sidewalk upgrades are currently planned for PY25. Other eligible activities may be undertaken, if funding allows Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 152 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f) Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed The projects in PY 2025 do not emphasize any one geographic area of Yakima. The city does not have a singular concentration of low- to moderate-income residents. Funds are generally dispersed out geographically to have the most significant impact. While some projects and activities may focus on a low-to-moderate-income area (LMA), they are not part of a greater neighborhood plan. Geographic Distribution Target Area Percentage of Funds Yakima Citywide 100 Table 56 - Geographic Distribution Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically The city did not identify a geographic target area as a basis for funding allocation priorities. Goals and projects are not limited to a specific area within the city. Discussion All projects funded with CDBG and HOME dollars support City of New Yakima residents. The projects listed in the 2025 Action Plan will benefit low- and moderate-income residents throughout the City of Yakima. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 153 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) Affordable Housing AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g) Introduction One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless Non-Homeless Special-Needs Total Table 57 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Rental Assistance The Production of New Units Rehab of Existing Units Acquisition of Existing Units Total Table 58 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type Discussion Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 154 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h) Introduction The Yakima Housing Authority (YHA) works to provide opportunities to people experiencing housing barriers while honoring their dignity and maintaining public trust. YHA is building a stronger community through public housing, housing choice vouchers, affordable housing, and supportive services, serving families, individuals, people with disabilities, and senior citizens. Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing The City of Yakima maintains a close working relationship with YHA staff. We will continue to explore opportunities for further cooperation and coordination through PY25. Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership The PHA, Yakima Housing Authority (YHA), facilitates a Resident Advisory Board (RAB). The RAB provides input and review of plans, documents, upcoming YHA projects, and needs of the YHA resident communities. The board is reflective of the resident community and a vital partner with YHA staff. YHA offers learning opportunities and programs, and facilitates community offerings to residents and voucher holders. If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance N/A Discussion The City of Yakima and the Yakima Housing Authority are active partners, consistently working together to improve outcomes for low-income Yakima residents. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 155 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) Introduction Yakima’s homeless and special needs strategy operates in cooperation and coordination with the regional Continuum of Care framework, directed by Yakima County Homeless Coalition, which serves as the lead CoC agency for the area. Supportive housing is an innovative and proven solution to some of the community’s most vulnerable individuals. It combines affordable housing with services that help individuals facing the most complex challenges to live with stability, autonomy, and dignity. People in supportive housing live more stable and productive lives. Residents of supportive housing are linked to intensive case management and voluntary, life-improving services, such as healthcare, workforce development, and child welfare. Supportive housing is a type of permanent housing that has no time limit on residency. Supportive housing improves: • Housing stability • Employment • Mental and physical health • School attendance • Engagement with behavioral health services Several populations of residents in Yakima would benefit from additional supportive housing. These include elderly persons, persons with disabilities, persons with behavioral health needs, or persons with HIV/AIDS and their families. Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs The City of Yakima's strategic plan goals include involvement in the Yakima County Continuum of Care Plan as a city policy. The plan outlines the continuum of programs and services required to move a family or individual from homelessness to independent living and self-sufficiency. The Continuum of Care Plan guides the ONDS's use of resources to reduce the number of homeless households by keeping as many senior and disabled homeowners as possible from becoming displaced through Emergency Rehabilitation Assistance. The first priority of the Continuum of Care is to maintain existing resources that serve the needs of the homeless within the community, while the City of Yakima continues to concentrate of keeping it's Elderly, Frail Elderly and Disabled homeowners within their homes and from Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 156 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) becoming homeless and adding to the Continuum of Care's burden in assisting the Homeless. Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City of Yakima continues to work closely with Yakima Continuum of Care in addressing emergency shelters and transitional housing needs of homeless persons with technical assistance through its Planning Department and Office of Neighborhood Development Services. Involvement in committees and collaborative resource sharing are key components in assisting agencies and organizations in addressing the transitional housing needs of Yakima residents. Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again The City of Yakima will continue to invest the limited resources available to support housing development, including transitional and permanent supportive housing. HOME-ARP funds have been invested in activities that help secure stable, long term housing solutions for homeless Yakima residents. ONDS staff will continue to seek opportunities to partner with affordable housing organizations to support the critical needs of Yakima's homeless. It can be difficult to build our way out of a homelessness problem. Providing funding to housing that includes supportive services can help bridge the gap. Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs Discharge coordination in Yakima and Yakima County is handled through the CORE (Community- Oriented Re-Entry) program. CORE is a team approach to re-entry and discharge planning with access to tenant-based housing assistance and mainstream services throughout the Yakima County Homeless Service Center. Yakima County criminal justice, substance abuse and mental health systems have a Crisis Triage Center to coordinate services for people with mental health and/or substance abuse disorders who tend to Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 157 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) cycle through the jail and the hospital emergency department. The CORE team members collaborate with Yakima County Homeless Services Center's rapid exit coordinator and housing specialist to provide housing solutions. Washington State Department of Corrections Reentry programs offer various forms of support, including job training, educational opportunities, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Coordinated Entry is the county-wide intake, prioritization, and referral system used to get resources to those with the highest need, regardless of where they are. Coordinated Entry takes a "no wrong door" policy by offering multiple Access Points across the community. Once an individual experiencing homelessness completes a Coordinated Entry intake at any of the county-wide Access Points, they will be eligible for services from across a confidential network of providers. Discussion Regional Coordination: City of Yakima staff participates, when possible, in monthly CoC planning meetings, Point-in-Time counts, and coordinated funding strategies. The city's Programs will complement regional homeless services by providing prevention-focused interventions that reduce inflow into the homeless system. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 158 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.220(j) Introduction: Housing prices continue to rise, severely impacting the availability of affordable housing in the United States. According to Brian Montgomery, former Federal Housing Administration commissioner and assistant secretary for housing, constraints on housing not only reduce the supply of affordable housing but also increase the number of households that are cost-burdened, spending more than 30 percent of their income on rent. Land-use policies and zoning regulations constrain the supply of affordable housing. Density limits, height restrictions, parking requirements, lengthy permitting and approval processes, and community opposition all contribute to increased housing prices. Although federal policies play an important role in influencing the availability of affordable housing, according to Sturtevant, the supply of affordable housing depends less on federal policies than on local planning practices, policies, and community engagement. Many local planning procedures currently in place enable community opposition that stalls housing production. Reshaping local regulations allows jurisdictions to make a lasting impact on the supply of affordable housing. HUD, PD&R Edge, "Regulatory Barriers and Affordable Housing" Actions it planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment The City's Zoning Ordinance addresses specific zoning regulations that can assist in creating affordable housing. The City's Comprehensive Plan recognized the need to expand the supply of affordable housing units. The city will work to encourage developers to assess opportunities for affordable housing. Repair and Rehabilitation programs undertaken to support the sustainability of the aging housing stock in the city, allowing families to stay in their homes and the elderly to age in place. Discussion: The City of Yakima seeks to foster an environment of opportunity, innovation, and sustainability in the housing market by planning for and supporting housing options that help increase opportunities for LMI residents. Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 159 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k) Introduction: The City of Yakima is committed to improving and increasing access to safe and affordable housing for low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents. Affordable and safe housing helps to provide financial stability, reduces the chances of a person becoming homeless, and promotes housing sustainability. The city prioritized goals and objectives for using CDBG and HOME funding to strategically and effectively benefit low- and moderate-income residents by increasing access to decent housing and creating a suitable living environment while expanding economic opportunities for LMI persons. Public services are an integral part of a comprehensive community development strategy. Public Service activities provide a wide range of activities that address needs in the community provided for the target population. Public services can strengthen communities by addressing the needs of specific populations. They can address a range of individual needs and increase CDBG dollars' impact by complementing other activities. Public Facility and Neighborhood Improvements will focus on safe and accessible infrastructure essential to the quality of life and building communities that support stability. The City's CDBG funds are 100% directed toward activities that assist low- to moderate-income residents. The City of Yakima is involved in several efforts to address the needs of the underserved and promote efforts to coordinate the many components related to housing, suitable living environments, and safer communities. Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs The primary obstacle to meeting underserved needs is the lack of identified and available resources. To overcome this obstacle, the City will continue to pursue creative partnerships, both financially and structurally, to leverage available funds The City will continue to seek ways to expand its efforts to inform underserved residents about the financial and informational resources available through the CDBG and HOME programs. Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing The City of Yakima may utilize CDBG, HOME, and other available funding sources to promote the development of affordable housing units within the city. Specifically, the CDBG and HOME programs may provide monetary and non-monetary support for projects that increase the number of housing units available to low- to moderate-income households and maintain the units' affordability for a specified period into the future. In partnership with Yakima Housing Authority, additional opportunities may be available. The City of Yakima supports owner-occupied emergency housing rehabilitation and may support a homebuyer assistance programs, as well as other activities that enhance life skills to Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 160 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) promote self-sufficiency. Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued Title X in 1992 to protect young children and families from lead-based paint hazards. The City of Yakima will take steps to ensure its regulations are in compliance. Program procedures and documents include additional steps for providing notification, identifying lead hazards, performing lead hazard reduction, using safe work practices, and achieving clearance. As part of the environmental review process, all existing housing units that will be repaired or rehabilitated with HUD funds are screened, unless deemed exempt, for lead paint hazards if built before 1978. Once all work is completed, housing units are then re-evaluated and must pass a lead-based paint clearance test to ensure the mitigation efforts are effective. Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families The City’s plan includes, though is not limited to, these three components: 1. Support activities that increase accessibility, connectivity, and recreational opportunities, especially for low- to moderate-income residents 2. Ensure that a wide variety of housing opportunities are available 3. Provide supportive services to residents in poverty. These all support the City’s goal of helping residents and families achieve self-sufficiency. Not all support will come from CDBG or HOME dollars, as leveraged money may be used for some initiatives, For those residents who cannot work (low-income frail elderly, persons with disabilities), the City’s public housing authority and Housing Choice voucher providers are vital for those households to avoid homelessness. Actions planned to develop institutional structure City staff is responsible for developing and monitoring the Consolidated Plan, the Annual Action Plan, the year-end CAPER report, IDIS reporting process, and sub-recipient compliance monitoring. Staff will implement the priorities identified in the planning process, with assistance from other departments, stakeholders, partners, and subrecipients. They will conduct outreach and implementation activities related to Citizen Participation and Fair Housing. When applicable and funding allows, City staff will attend relevant CDBG and HOME training to help Consolidated Plan YAKIMA 161 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021) create a broader institutional knowledge base of the CDBG and HOME programs. Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies The City of Yakima will continue actively encouraging coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies. Continued efforts will be made to identify opportunities for service providers to expand their services where needed, while minimizing duplication of efforts. Private businesses are also encouraged to participate in discussions relative to the housing and social service provider needs. Continued coordinated planning efforts with the CoC to address critical needs throughout the area will be key to addressing the needs of Yakima residents. Discussion: The City of Yakima is committed to maintaining a robust, efficient, and compliant program that targets the needs of the most vulnerable community members. ITEM TITLE: BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL YAKIMA, WASHINGTON AGENDA TATEM T Item No, 9.A. For Meeting of: August 4, 2025 Resolution adopting the HUD mandated five-year Consolidated Plan (2025-2029) and the 2025 Annual Action Plan for the City of Yakima (CDBG/HOME Funds) SUBMITTED BY: Bill Preston, Community Development Director SUMMARY EXPLANATION: As required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the City of Yakima must provide two public input meetings on the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and the 2025 Annual Action Plan. Public input meetings took place during the City Council meetings on November 19, 2024, and August 4, 2025. The Five Year Consolidated Plan documents the affordable housing and community development needs, It provides policy guidelines for how CDBG and HOME funds may be used. The 2025 Annual Action Plan outlines of how the federal funds received (Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Funds) will be used within the policy guidelines to address housing and community needs. The City of Yakima seeks to encourage viable community development by promoting integrated approaches that provide decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expand economic opportunities for low- and moderate -income persons. Acceptance of the Five Year Consolidated Plan and the 2025 Annual Action Plan will allow the City to be in compliance with federal requirements and utilize allocated federal funds to address housing and community development needs. ITEM BUDGETED: N/A STRATEGIC PRIORITY 24-25: An Engaged Yakima RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution. ATTACHMENTS: Resolution HUD 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and 2025 Annual Action