Title
Presentation and discussion regarding affordable housing
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BACKGROUND:
At the City Council’s strategic planning retreat in February 2019, the Council received a presentation from Mr. Tracy Eubanks, Chief Executive Officer for Metrocrest Services, regarding the need for inclusive housing for all household incomes, including affordable housing. During 2018, Metrocrest Services provided 128 families (398 individuals) rent or utility assistance in Farmers Branch.
Additionally, Metrocrest Services participated in the Point in Time Homeless Count in January 2019 which resulted for Farmers Branch: six unsheltered homeless persons; 74 persons living in motels for long-term housing; and 43 students who were housing unstable (i.e. living in motels; doubling up with family or friends; and living in shelters).
For FY2020, Council has identified the following critical business outcomes which relate to affordable housing:
• CBO2 - Improve options for quality, senior-centric housing; and
• CBO9 - Develop a mechanism to end child homelessness.
At the City Council/Planning and Zoning Commission joint meeting, staff will make a presentation related to affordable housing including:
• Why does the city desire affordable housing construction;
• Defining affordable housing and how that relates to median household incomes in Farmers Branch;
• Construction costs related to exterior building materials for single-family residences; and
• If the city desires financially diverse and more socially responsible housing, then does the city have a role in that effort and what is that role.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission provide direction regarding the city’s role, if any, as it relates to affordable housing.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Staff Presentation - Affordable Housing