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1 MINUTES HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION Neighborhood Resources Department Virtually via Webex Phone: (415) 655-0001, Access Code: 2591-936-0463 Wednesday, May 11, 2022, 6:00 p.m. CALL TO ORDER / ROLL CALL Commission Chair Tony Alcala called the meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. Commissioners present: Tony Alcala, Heather Mattisson, Cecilia Hermosillo, Cynthia Hardy, Jeff Reynolds, Julie Martin, Ryan Magel, and Vanessa Dearmon. Commissioners absent: David Gonzalez (unexcused), Greg Rodriquez (excused), and Karen Tepper (unexcused). Public present: Amanda Nosbisch, Trinity Donovan, Matt Campbell, Edwin Mehta, Peggy Donaldson, Ruth Jones, Erin Cowan-Hegg, Jennifer Bertoldo, Katie Kahle, Jacki Taylor, Trinity Donovan, Shawn Donaldson, Sarah Hayden, Denise Burns, Melissa Anderson, Susan Stevens- Clarke, Cassandra Facciponti, Patricia Rivers, Lea Benson, Heather Honea, Destiny Honea, Tamaka Perez, Clota Honea, Jean Hollingsworth, Charles Payne, Chad Jendrey, Jovanni Cedeno, Josie Woody, Leslie Minkus, Debie W., Bryan Armstrong, Linda Sawyer, Maty Yano, Kathy DiNolfi, Eric and Mary Sheldahl, Emily Denes, Marsha Mintz, Erik Langhofer, Priscilla Acero, Jill L. Goetz, Elizabeth Dow, William Don, Garrett Broslma, Sonia Smith, Carol P., Regina Williams, Rex Albright, Don Jenson, Monica Ivy, Tamilee S., and Allisia Fiorini. Public Attending Virtually: Barbara Polston, Benjamin (no last name provided), Carla Sorrrell- Verduzco, Caroline Hudson Naef, Katie Martin, Kimberly Thompson, Pam Morris, Sandra McNally, Shelby Pederson, Sheryl Keene, Bill Berry, Julie (no last name provided), Liz (no last name provided), Cassie (no last name provided), Caller with number ending in 0463. Staff Present: Tadd Wille, Assistant City Manager, Leah Powell, Neighborhood Resources Director, Riann Balch, Community Resources Manager, Karin Bishop, Community Development & Resources Supervisor, Dylan Raymond, Community Resources Coordinator, Tawn Kao, Assistant City Attorney, Monica Thompson, Community Development Coordinator, Sara Mercado, Community Development Coordinator, Tawna Mower, Sr. Administrative Assistant Neighborhood Preservation, Guy Jaques, Neighborhood Services Supervisor, Lauren Koll, Mgmt. Assistant Neighborhood Resources, and Celia Cantabrana, Community Resources Specialist. SCHEDULED/UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES/CALL TO PUBLIC Members of the audience may address any item not on the agenda. State Statute prohibits the Board or Commission from discussing an item that is not on the agenda, but the Board or Commission does listen to your concerns and has staff follow up on any questions you raise. 2 Chair Tony Alcala asked if any members of the public would like to speak. In an unscheduled appearance, Chandler resident Leslie Minkus, 3372 E. Gemini Ct, Chandler, AZ 85249, voiced concerns regarding questions he raised at the April 27th meeting. Mr. Minkus stated he was not satisfied with the answers or information received on the following items: 1. A map of all homeless shelter locations in Chandler. 2. Statistics of the number of homeless individuals that have addictions. 3. The number of homeless persons who are U.S. citizens, illegal aliens, terrorists, or have criminal records. 4. The process or procedures used to transition homeless individuals to productive citizens. 5. The sources of funding used for homeless services and what percentage of that funding is from taxpayers. 6. How funding is distributed within an agency providing homeless services and the number of participants. In addition, Mr. Minkus also shared the following concern, “Since navigators are helping homeless individuals work through the program and possibly helping them with obtaining identification cards, how are we ensuring they are not influencing them politically?” CONSENT AGENDA Items listed on the Consent Agenda may be enacted by one motion and one vote. If a discussion is required by members of the Board or Commission, the item will be removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion and determination will be made if the item will be considered separately. 1. April 6, 2022, HHSC Meeting Minutes. 2. April 27, 2022, HHSC Special Meeting Minutes. Motion: Vice Chair Heather Mattisson made a motion to approve Consent Agenda Items 1-2. Commissioner Cynthia Hardy seconded the motion. Discussion: None. Results: The motion was approved 8-0. PUBLIC HEARING 3. Fiscal Year 2022-2023 General Fund Recommendations and Contingency Plan. Chair Alcala opened the Public Hearing at 6:21 p.m. and introduced Community Resources Manager Riann Balch, who provided an overview of the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 General Fund initial funding recommendations and contingency plans. 3 Ms. Balch explained that on April 27, 2022, the Housing and Human Services Commission (HHSC) developed initial funding recommendations for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-2023 General Fund allocations to support the provision of human services programs in the Chandler community. The General Fund Allocation process was adopted by the Chandler City Council in 2010 and was later updated and approved by the Council on September 12, 2019, via Resolution No. 5314, following a comprehensive, Community-Wide Needs Assessment, which was conducted by an outside consultant. According to the Community- Wide Needs Assessment the six target populations and seven areas below were identified as priorities. Target Populations Top Areas of Need People experiencing homelessness and/or housing crisis Housing for all incomes Households with low and moderate-income Behavioral health Seniors who are isolated or have low-income Homelessness Vulnerable youth Better communications People living with mental health and/or substance use disorders Transportation People living with physical and intellectual disabilities Social Isolation Food insecurity Ms. Balch explained that the City of Chandler held the Application Orientation on October 20, 2021, and that the application deadline was December 1, 2021. Non-profit organizations applying for the funding must serve one of the target populations or areas of need. Ms. Balch shared that fifty-four applications were received totaling $2,908,496 in requests. The City has just over 1 million in funding to allocate, which is $737,712 less than the two previous fiscal years, which included one-time COVID funding. Following technical review by staff, applications were divided by category – Basic Needs, Youth and Special Populations- and distributed for review to three evaluation subcommittees of the HHSC. Each subcommittee was composed of both HHSC members and Chandler residents. Initial recommendations were approved by the Commission at the HHSC Special meeting on April 23, 2022. Today, the Commission will consider approval of final recommendations following a Public Hearing. City Council will consider the HHSC’s recommendation for approval the week of June 20, 2022. Chair Alcala asked if there were any questions from Commissioners. There were none. 4 Chair Alcala asked if members of the public would like to speak. Ruth Jones, 2734 E. Birchwood Place, Chandler, AZ 85249, thanked volunteers from the Commission and subcommittees. Ms. Jones shared concerns about organizations that received funding in previous years but did not receive funding this year. Specifically, she is concerned about: 1. CeCe’s Hope Center – Housing and Services for Survivors of Human Trafficking Chandler 2. Chandler Gilbert Arc – Employment Program 3. Raising Special Kids – Navigating Health Care and Education Systems for Families of Children with Disabilities 4. Recreation and Athletics for Individuals with Disabilities (RAD) – Payment Assistance for Individuals with Disability (PAID) She stated that these organizations were overlooked even though they met the criteria for funding. Ms. Jones said that it is important to fund programs that help with social isolation and intellectual disabilities as they help all members of society. Ms. Jones also shared that she attended the HHSC Special meeting, where there was discussion about what to do with additional funding should it become available. She stated that additional funding should not be applied to agencies already receiving funding, but rather those not already receiving funding. Chief Executive Officer Jacki Taylor from Save the Family and Arm of Save the Family, 125 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85201, thanked the City for the funding support her organization has received and commended the City for the outstanding job it has done in support of the most vulnerable populations. Ms. Taylor shared that there is a significant increase in the number of people displaced and experiencing homelessness in all communities. She stated that without the funding, Chandler residents would be in dire circumstances and the Community would witness increased homelessness on the streets. Ms. Taylor also stated she appreciated and understood the hard work that goes into making funding decisions. Shawn Donaldson, 1263 W. Lagos Vista, Mesa, AZ 85202, spoke in support of AZCEND and said he was a member of Evident Life Church, which helps the homeless. Mr. Donaldson shared that he had heard concerns regarding programs for the homeless. He explained that without programs like AZCEND’s I-HELP Program, homelessness would be greater. Mr. Donaldson explained that folks that are in the program are not on the street corner with a sign causing issues in the City. Folks go through intake, are transported by a shuttle, provided dinner, given a place to sleep, have a shower trailer, and are given bus passes. AZCEND helps people get off the streets, instead of just giving handouts. Mr. Donaldson said everyone deserves a second chance. 5 Jennifer Bertoldo, Representative of the Chandler CARE Center Children’s Medical and Dental Clinic, 262 W. Cedar Drive, Chandler, AZ 85242, thanked the HHSC for their time and support in helping the most vulnerable populations. Ms. Bertoldo explained that the CARE Center provides no-cost dental and medical services to children and their families in the Chandler community. She said the CARE Center works directly with the Chandler Unified School District. She shared that in 2019, 9.8% of children did not have medical insurance and that there is a bubble of the community that makes just enough that they do not qualify for medical assistance programs like Medicaid, but yet still cannot afford medical or dental care. She said, “We push the dollar to its limit for each dollar donated, we turn it into $3.67 of services. It’s important to keep the community strong, and we must take care of our children to keep our future stronger.” Katie Kahle, Director of the Chandler CARE Center Children’s Medical and Dental, 777 E. Galveston St., Chandler, AZ 85225, thanked the Chair and Commission. Ms. Kahle pointed out that kids who suffer with health and dental issues miss school more often than their peers and that low- income children are disproportionately impacted. She said that the goal is to keep those children in school and learning. Ms. Kahle referenced a study out of Harvard and Cornell regarding the long-term impact on providing children with healthcare, showing it improves school attendance and keeps them more focused in school, while not providing healthcare makes those children less likely to go on to college or trades schools. Ms. Kahle stressed that the community must do everything it can to help invest in those children and Chandler as a whole. Erin Cowan-Hegg, Chief Programs Officer, 2103 W. Flint St., Chandler, AZ 85224, thanked the City for its continued support of Save the Family. She explained that the funding has a great impact on families living in Chandler, not only while they are in the program, but also once they are permanently housed. Staff provide long- term support to families through case management, which helps connect them to resources, career development, resumes, mock interviews, obtain increased wages to compensate for increased rent amounts, mental health services, and substance abuse services. The goal is to help families to be sustainable long term. Ms. Cowan-Hegg said, “Thank you for the funding. It’s really impacting the people of Chandler.” Bill Berry, Director of Resurrection Street Ministry, 891 W Boxelder Pl., Chandler, AZ 85225, spoke in support of all non-profits. He shared that Resurrection Street Ministry has been providing services for seniors, homeless individuals, veterans, and families since 2002. He explained that the City of Chandler aids nonprofits far more than other municipalities that he has worked with. Mr. Berry said that there are no encampments or pockets of homeless individuals in Chandler because the City helps people in crisis. Mr. Berry said 6 that all nonprofits have taken a financial hit and need to collaborate more and more to be able to provide needed services with less funding. Sandra McNally, Prevention Manager for Empact Suicide Prevention, 5809 W. Linda Lane, expressed her support for the City. She shared that her organization has received funding for several years, which has allowed her organization to help individuals over the last decade. As a resident, she said, “I’m proud that our city supports us, as together we can do so much for our community and help those who would not have services without the funding.” Ms. McNally thanked the City for the continued support it has provided to nonprofits that would not otherwise be able to provide services. Chair Alcala read the comment cards received from the public. Amanda Nosbisch, 5244 S. Pearl Place, Chandler, AZ 85249. ” It is inhuman to suggest or request withdrawal of services to those who need relief, support, kindness, and human decency from their neighbors. The hungry deserve the kindness of food. The unsheltered need compassion and respect the same as you or I do. Not having a roof over your head does not diminish that. If it were your loved one that needed a safe space, water, or a meal you would hope that they would be met with compassion. Not in my backyard is a selfish perspective.” Trinity Donovan, 2153 E. Carla Vista Place, Chandler, AZ 85225. “Nonprofits provide vital services to City residents. At AZCEND, we utilize City funding to leverage additional dollars to strengthen individuals and families through food boxes, rent & utility assistance, senior nutrition including Meals on Wheels, homeless programs, shelter, and family programming.” Matt Campbell, 1827 E. Browning Place, Chandler, AZ 85286. “My experience with I-HELP has been very positive and it is a force for good in our community. My church helps provide meals for those in the I-HELP program (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), serving meals to homeless and sitting down to eat and talk with them is a wonderful experience. We need to build more bridges and help each other especially in these economic times where food and housing costs are increasing.” Edwin Mehta, 295 N. Rural Rd., Chandler, AZ 85226. “I am a Chandler resident and employee for Junior Achievement of Arizona. With the support of the HHSC, we have been able to provide our critical, real-world programming to thousands of Chandler students, teaching them skills that they are not learning at home or school.” 7 Peggy Donaldson, 1263 W. Los Lagos Vista Avenue, Mesa, AZ 85202. “As a church member and volunteer, our church has worked hand in hand with AZCEND to help homeless individuals get off the street, into housing, and job opportunities. I have no recollection of any other program in the Valley that provides a place to sleep, a meal, and social worker helps.” Pam Morris, 1667 W. Maplewood Street, Chandler, AZ 85286. “It is very important that the City of Chandler helps to fund nonprofit organizations. With those needed funds these organizations can help a large number of Chandler residents. At the East Valley JCC, the preschool is able to offer scholarships to single earner families and ensure that children from ALL backgrounds are able to attend a HIGH quality early learning center, being nurtured and cared for in a school that has been around since 1971.” Sheryl Keeme, Executive Director of Neighbors Who Care, Inc., 10450 E. Riggs Rd., Ste 113, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248. “Thank you for the opportunity to present this. Serving homebound senior residents of Chandler representing 20% of our 32-square mile service area with funds received from Chandler representing 5% of our budget. 1. The funds we receive from Chandler allow us to help 65 Chandler homebound senior citizens remain in their homes, independently for up to five more years. 2. Our dinner delivery service, grocery services, and transportation to medical services help these seniors use fewer community resources with our help because other than transportation, they are still capable of completing the critical activities of daily living. 3. For every $1 Neighbors Who Care collects in contributions with the help of hundreds of volunteers, it is able to deliver more than $3 in complimentary services to the clients we serve.” Katie Martin, 5184 W. Ross Drive, Chandler, AZ 85226. “I wanted to thank the City of Chandler for the continued support of the Emergency and Rehabilitation programs FSL provides Chandler residents. We have been able to assist 87 homeowners since 2018 with repairs such as air conditioning, plumbing, roofing, electrical and accessibility modifications. Thank you for your continued support of the community and local nonprofits. Chair Alcala closed the Public Hearing at 6:53 p.m. 8 ACTION AGENDA 4. Approval of Fiscal Year 2022-2023 General Fund Recommendations and Contingency Plan. • A New Leaf - East Valley Men's Center • A New Leaf - La Mesita Family Shelter • A New Leaf - SafeDVS/DVSTOP • About Care, Inc. - Empowering Independent Living • Arizona Burn Foundation - Early Childhood Burn Prevention & Fire Safety Education Program • AZCEND - Chandler Food Bank Basic Needs Program • AZCEND - Community Action Program • AZCEND - Housing and Stability Specialist • AZCEND - Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program (I-HELP) • AZCEND - Senior Nutrition Program • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ) - Chandler Mentoring Program • Boys & Girls Club of the Valley Inc. - Great Futures for Chandler Youth • Catholic Charities Community Services, Inc. - My Sisters' Place Domestic Violence Shelter • CeCe's Hope Center - Housing and Services for Survivors of Human Trafficking Chandler • CARE Center Children's Medical and Dental Clinic - Chandler CARE Center Children's Medical Clinic • Chandler Cultural Foundation - Chandler Center for the Arts - Connecting Chandler Kids • Chandler Gilbert Arc - Employment Program • Child Crisis Arizona - Caring for Homeless Children • City Help Inc. - DBA East Valley Dream Center • Community Bridges, Inc. - CBI Chandler Mobile Community Outreach and Crisis Stabilization • Desert Sounds Performing Arts, Inc. - Chandler Mariachi and Jeremy Project • Dignity Health Foundation East Valley - Chandler Children's Dental Clinic • Dress for Success Phoenix - Workforce Development and Job Training for Chandler Youth • Dsquared Homes for the Homeless Outreach - The GAP Program • East Valley JCC - JBox Seniors in Need • East Valley JCC - Scholarships: Low Income Families and Single Parent Homes • East Valley JCC - Youth in Crisis • EMPACT - Suicide Prevention Center (SPC) - Senior Peer Counseling • FANS Across America Charitable Foundation - Diaper Bank for Families in Need • FANS Across America Charitable Foundation - Locker Room for Those in Need • Hope for Addiction, Inc. - Freedom House • ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth - Youth Development Program 9 • Inspiring Women on a Mission - On a Mission • Junior Achievement of Arizona - Providing JA BizTown and JA BizTown Adventures to Low-Income City of Chandler Students • Matthew's Crossing Food Bank - Emergency Food Assistance • Mesa United Way - City of Chandler VITA Grant • Midwest Food Bank, Arizona Division - Emergency Food Box Program • Mission of Mercy - Access to Health Care for Uninsured Chandler Residents • Neighbors Who Care, Inc. - Aging in Place • notMYkid, Inc. - Youth Mental Health Collective • One Small Step, Inc. - One Small Step | Clothes Cabin • Operation Shockwave - Integrative Healing to Veterans • Raising Special Kids - Navigating Health Care and Education Systems for Families of Children with Disabilities • Read on Chandler - Kith and Kin Project • Recreation and Athletics for Individuals with Disabilities (RAD) - Payment Assistance for Individuals with Disability (PAID) • Resurrection Street Ministry, Inc. - Driving Our Veterans 2022 • Resurrection Street Ministry, Inc. - Feeding Chandler Neighbors 2022 • Service Animal Training for Veterans - Training and Certification • Si Se Puede Foundation - Si Se Puede Foundation STEM Center • The Salvation Army, A California Corporation - Client Choice Food Pantry • The Salvation Army, A California Corporation - Community Outreach and Engagement for Vulnerable Populations to Move Beyond Barriers • The Salvation Army, A California Corporation - Housing Stability Assistance • United Food Bank - Emergency & Supplemental Food Assistance in Chandler • Valley of the Sun YMCA - Chandler Family YMCA I-Learn Program Chair Alcala introduced Ms. Balch, who explained that the vote would be for the final recommendations for $1,088,056.40 and the contingency plan. Chair Alcala asked if any members of the public would like to speak. Lea Benson, CeCe’s Hope Center Co-Founder, no address provided due to confidential shelter location, shared that the City of Chandler was the original city to support CeCe’s Hope Center, which has now grown to include Gilbert, Mesa, and hoping for Tempe soon. Since 2017 this organization worked hard to serve the needs of individuals 18-24 years of age who are at risk from human trafficking. Ms. Benson asked for feedback as to why her organization was not recommended for funding. Ms. Balch responded that the HHSC’s concern was that a large portion of the requested funding was allocated to training. She explained that only $2,000 of what was requested was for training and that the remaining funds go directly to three Chandler residents. Ms. Benson asked the Commission to reconsider and find funds to support the program. 10 Patricia Rivers, CeCe’s Hope Center Program Recipient, and resident spoke about how the program helped her as a victim. Ms. Rivers shared that through the program she was able to get a job, reinstate her government benefits, and reconnect with her son through visitation. She said it is a great relief to be able to provide for him again. Ms. Rivers said that in addition to shelter, she received hygiene products and mental health support. She explained how supportive and active the staff at CeCe’s Hope Center is with residents by asking about their goals and keeping them motivated and focused as young women. She shared that she wants to go back to school and study psychology to be a therapist due to all that she has gone through. Ms. Rivers said she was thankful for CeCe’s Hope Center and all the help and support they provide victims. Heather Honea, Recreation and Athletics for Individuals with Disabilities (RAD) participant, 1281 W. Toledo Street, Chandler, AZ 85224, spoke about the benefits of RAD and how it helps pay for sports fees and other activities such as bowling, movies, and a pool party. Destiny Honea, Recreation, and Athletics for Individuals with Disabilities (RAD) participant, 1281 W. Toledo Street, Chandler, AZ 85224, spoke about the sports she can participate in because of the program, such as basketball, track, and swimming. Clota Honea, Recreation and Athletics for Individuals with Disabilities (RAD) participant, 1281 W. Toledo Street, Chandler, AZ 85224, shared that these activities are a great way for Chandler families to network, share disability resources and find therapeutic support. She explained that RAD is a 17-year-old nonprofit run by volunteers, and all money goes right back to the City for program fees. Ms. Honea explained that the organization needs funding to continue paying city sports fees for the 300 athletes and that all funding supports Chandler residents. Tamaka Perez, Hope for Addiction, Inc., Recipient, 2530 W. Park Avenue, Chandler, AZ 85224, shared that she was a resident of Freedom House after being in prison for over seven years. Ms. Perez said she had a daughter and needed a change. She said Hope for Addiction provides housing for her and her daughter and taught her how to live life outside of addiction. She also shared that she was a victim of human trafficking, which led her to addiction. These programs made a difference, allowing her to go from a struggling mother to officially being now completely off of any government assistance. At forty-two years of age, she has a job making $70,000+ per year and is sober. She said, “These programs make a difference, women and children are waiting for help. The education programs and parenting programs, and other services for women coming out of addiction are vital. Some mothers do not know how to take care of the basic needs of their children, as their basic needs were not met when they were children.” Jean Hollingsworth, 1877 E. Claxton Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 85297, and Charles Payne, 489 S. Colorado Street, Chandler, AZ 85225, both parishioners of Baptist Church in Chandler, spoke in support of the AZCEND I-HELP Program. Ms. Hollingsworth, a registered traveling nurse 11 working mostly in Chandler and Gilbert, stated that she sees a lot of people struggling and that support is desperately needed. Mr. Payne thanked the commission for the funding. He said he feels that some losses are happening, and the community is being underserved. Charles stated many funds have diminished and finds it heartbreaking and asks the board to reconsider the cuts. Cassandra Facciponti, founder of Operation Shockwave, 2222 N. McQueen Rd., Chandler, AZ 85225, explained that Operation Shockwave provides suicide prevention services for veterans. She emphasized how the Veterans and Military populations feel underserved and not able to get the help they need. Ms. Facciponti explained that Operation Shockwave works with the Alpaca Trauma Program and P.A.W.S.S. program in providing mental health services. Ms. Facciponti thanked veterans and families for their service and thanked Chandler for stepping up to support those who served our Country. Jovanni Cedeno, Representative of East Valley Dream Center, 900 E Pecos Rd., Chandler, AZ 85225, shared that he was grateful to be allocated funds, but that it was nowhere near the requested amount. He said growing up in Section 8, the mission of the East Valley Dream Center is to eradicate poverty. Mr. Cedeno explained that the funding received would go to help families get out of Section 8 by teaching them how to budget, and providing counseling services and resources. Mr. Cedeno said his organization was informed that the community need was mental health services, so his organization worked to get counselors. He believes with more funding this will be possible. Mr. Cedeno said he will continue to be out in the community. Susan Stevens-Clarke, For Our City member, 795 W Ebony Way, Chandler, AZ 85248, attended the meeting in support of the AZCEND I-HELP program. She explained that funding is needed for the AZCEND I-HELP program because it helps individuals experiencing homelessness go from hopeless and homeless to self-sufficient. She said that in addition to providing a safe place to sleep every night of the week, the program assists individuals with job placement, shelter, and resources needed to regain stability, provides a hot meal, and helps to break the cycle of homelessness. She stated that there are 14,000 volunteer hours per year. She also said, “I-HELP nourishes minds and bodies of forgotten individuals.” Sarah Hayden, 884 E. Mead Drive, Chandler, AZ 85249. “Supporting programs listed on Agenda #4 are critical to the well-being and safety of our City. The success rate of individuals utilizing these resources is so high and helps them to integrate and become productive in our community. Hope for Addiction’s Freedom House is a vital safe shelter for at-risk single moms. These women and their kids are given the tools and time to rebuild their lives to become independent and stable. We are so grateful for the City’s support.” Denise Burns, Pastor/host of I-HELP, Chandler First Nazarene Church, 301 N. Hartford Street, Chandler, AZ 85225. 12 “I-HELP is well-organized and has helped so many motivated individuals re-enter productive society.” Melissa Anderson, Chandler First Nazarene Church, 301 N. Hartford Street, Chandler, AZ 85225. “I am here in support of I-HELP and other socials services, which help to develop a healthy community in Chandler. These programs go a long way to fill the gaps left by public services.” Susan Stevens-Clarke, 795 W. Ebony Way, Chandler, AZ 85248. “I have worked with and support AZCEND in its many ways it assists members of the Chandler Community which are vulnerable.” Cassandra Facciponti, 2222 N. McQueen Rd., APT 2004, Chandler, AZ 85225. “Operation Shockwave applied for this grant to fund one of five Veteran suicide prevention programs, Pups and Warriors Side by Side (P.A.W.S.S.). P.A.W.S.S. has been one of Operation Shockwave’s healing modalities since March 2021, and remains to present day, May 11, 2022, regardless of volunteers in that program.” Chad Jendrey, 12820 N. 29th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85029 Submitted Speaker Card in support of item number 4. Motion: Commissioner Martin made a motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 General Fund Recommendations and Contingency Plan. Commissioner Ryan Magel seconded the motion. Discussion: Vice Chair Mattison asked for Commission member’s thoughts on funding CeCe’s Hope Center and RAD if additional funds were to be made available. Commissioner Hardy said that she thought this was discussed at the last meeting but does not see the contingencies listed in the notes. Commissioner Cecilia Hermosillo said she also thought that contingency funding would be applied to CeCe’s Hope Center. She agreed the two agencies should be the first priority if additional funding is made available. Chair Alcala asked if there was desire to amend the General Funds Recommendations and Contingency plan to include funding CeCe’s Hope Center and RAD up to $10,000 each should the City receive an increase in funding. Amended Motion: Vice-Chair Mattisson made a motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2022- 2023 General Fund Recommendations and amended Contingency Plan to include $10,000 for CeCe’s Hope and RAD. Commissioner Jeff Reynolds seconded the motion. Discussion: None. Results: Motion passed 8-0. 13 5. Approval of Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding Recommendations and Contingency Plan. Public Service and Fair Housing: ▪ City of Chandler Community Development and Resources Division (Client Services) ▪ City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment Division (Public Housing Youth Program) ▪ Save the Family (Case Coordination and Homeless Housing) Capital Projects, Housing, and Neighborhood Revitalization: ▪ City of Chandler Neighborhood Preservation Division (Code Enforcement in Low-Mod Neighborhoods) ▪ City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment Division (Relocation Assistance) ▪ City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment Division (Professional Services) ▪ City of Chandler Community Development and Resources Division (Homeowner Rehabilitation Operations) ▪ FSL Home Improvements (Chandler Emergency and Rehab Program) Chair Alcala introduced Community Development and Resources Supervisor Karin Bishop to provide an overview of the CDBG initial funding recommendations and contingency plan. Ms. Bishop explained that the City of Chandler receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which requires the City to prepare and submit an Annual Action Plan that identifies the planned use of the CDBG funds, and how it correlates to the Five- Year Consolidated Plan. The FY2022-2023 Annual Action Plan is the third year of this Consolidated Plan. The CDBG/HOME Subcommittee, a subcommittee of the Housing and Human Services Commission, met in January and February to review applications received, made funding recommendations, and developed a contingency plan that were initially approved by HHSC on March 2, 2022, and are included in the DRAFT Annual Action Plan for FY2022-2023. Ms. Bishop informed the Commission that in order to be in compliance with HUD regulations and the Citizen Participation Plan, the City of Chandler held a 30-day public comment period from March 28, 2022, to April 29, 2022; and two public hearings were held on February 9, 2022, and April 6, 2022. She also informed the Commission that public comments were received and are attached to this action agenda item, and also attached with the draft Annual Action Plan, which is posted on the City’s website. Ms. Bishop explained HUD has not yet released its annual allocations and that CDBG funding recommendations were based on the City’s prior year allocation. She also explained that contingency plans were also developed in case there is an increase or decrease in funding. 14 Ms. Bishop informed the Commission the proposed FY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan, authorizing staff to submit the Plan to HUD, will be considered by City Council on June 9, 2022. Ms. Bishop explained that the CDBG funds are used to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment; and expanding economic opportunities for persons with low and moderate income. The City is anticipating a funding amount of $1,468,384 (based on Prior Fiscal Year Allocation) and a decrease of approximately 4.5% nationally. Ms. Bishop asked the HHSC to approve the FY2022-2023 Annual Action Plan including the CDBG funding recommendations and contingency plan. Chair Alcala read public comment cards. Josie Woody, 3906 E. Beechnut Place, Chandler, AZ 85249. “Funding is critical in continuing to support the work of Save the Family. These funds combined with private donations help families become self-sufficient and find safe housing. I am a Save the Family Board member and Chandler resident.” Motion: Vice Chair Mattisson made a motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan Including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding Recommendations and Contingency Plan. Commissioner Martin seconded the motion. Discussion: None. Results: Motion passed 8-0. 6. Approval of Fiscal Year 2022-2023 HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) Funding Recommendations and Contingency Plan. ▪ Affordable Rental Movement (ARM) of Save the Family (Affordable Rental Housing) ▪ City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment (Tenant-Based Rental Assistance) Chair Alcala introduced Community Development and Resources Supervisor Karin Bishop to provide an overview of the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) Funding recommendations and contingency plan. Ms. Bishop explained that the City of Chandler is not an entitlement community for HOME funds. Maricopa County HOME Consortium receives HOME funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and reallocates HOME funds to the various Consortium members, including the City of Chandler. The CDBG/HOME Subcommittee, a subcommittee of the Housing and Human Services Commission, met in January and February to review 15 applications received, make funding recommendations, and develop a contingency plan that was initially approved by HHSC on March 2, 2022, and is included in the DRAFT Maricopa County HOME Consortium Annual Action Plan. The City of Chandler held a 30-day public comment period from March 28, 2022, to April 29, 2022; and two public hearings were held on February 9, 2022, and April 6, 2022. Public comments received are included in the City of Chandler Annual Action Plan. HOME funding recommendations are based on the City’s prior year allocation since HUD has not yet released its annual allocations for FY 2022-2023. Ms. Bishop explained that contingency plans were also developed for HOME funding in case there was an increase or decrease in funding. The Mayor and City Council are scheduled to take action on the proposed FY 2022-2023 HOME funding recommendations and contingency plan on June 9, 2022. Planned HOME Activities are submitted to Maricopa County for inclusion in the Maricopa HOME Consortium’s Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan submitted to HUD. Ms. Bishop explained the purpose of the HOME Investment Partnership program is to create a more viable community, provide decent, safe, and affordable housing, promote family stability and stronger neighborhoods for persons with low- and moderate-income. The City of Chandler directs its HOME funds to support affordable housing activities. The City is anticipating a funding amount of $409,881 (Based on Prior Fiscal Year Allocation). Ms. Bishop asked if any Commission members had any questions. There were no questions from the Commission. Chair Ayala read public comment cards. Josie Woody, 3906 E. Beechnut Place, Chandler, AZ 85249. “Funding is critical to continue to support affordable housing. As a Save the Family board member and Chandler resident, these funds in addition to private donations continue to help families with self-sufficiency.” Allisia Fiorini, representing Arm of Save the Family, 3367 E. Bridgeport Pkwy, Gilbert, AZ 85295. “With homelessness on the rise due to inflation, high rents, and stagnant wages, federal funding is more imperative than ever. The funds will support affordable housing and support services to assist those facing hardships.” Motion: Commissioner Martin made a motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) Funding Recommendations and Contingency Plan. Commissioner Mattisson seconded the motion. Discussion: None. Results: Motion passed 8-0. 16 MEMBERS COMMENTS / ANNOUNCEMENTS None. CALENDAR 7. HHSC Meeting, Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. 8. HHSC Meeting Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. INFORMATION ITEMS 11. Incoming Members. Ms. Balch introduced and welcomed new commission members, Jeff Reynolds, and Cecelia Hermosillo. Commissioner Reynolds shared with the Commission that he has been a resident of Chandler since 2004 and recently served on the Parks and Recreation Board. He also shared that he is a member of For Our City. Commissioner Reynolds thanked everyone for welcoming him to the Commission. Commissioner Hermosillo stated that she was happy to be part of the Commission. She also shared that she has worked for Valley of the Sun United Way for the last 10 years. She also worked for the Chandler Unified School District as a Family Engagement Specialist. She said she misses the children and families. Chair Alcala welcomed new Commission members. Commissioner Alcala also thanked the public, Commissioners, and staff for attending tonight’s meeting. ADJOURN The meeting adjourned at 7:49 p.m. Dated: _____________________________ __________________________________ Chair Tony Alcala Recording Secretary Monica Thompson