Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025 Annual Plan Streamlined Annual PHA Plan (HCV Only PHAs) U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Public and Indian Housing OMB No. 2577-0226 Expires 03/31/2024 Page 1 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) Purpose. The 5-Year and Annual PHA Plans provide a ready source for interested parties to locate basic PHA policies, rules, and requirements concerning the PHA’s operations, programs, and services, including changes to these policies, and informs HUD, families served by the PHA, and members of the public of the PHA’s mission, goals and objectives for serving the needs of low- income, very low- income, and extremely low- income families Applicability. The Form HUD-50075-HCV is to be completed annually by HCV-Only PHAs. PHAs that meet the definition of a Standard PHA, Troubled PHA, High Performer PHA, Small PHA, or Qualified PHA do not need to submit this form. Where applicable, separate Annual PHA Plan forms are available for each of these types of PHAs. Definitions. (1) High-Performer PHA – A PHA that owns or manages more than 550 combined public housing units and housing choice vouchers, and was designated as a high performer on both the most recent Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS) and Section Eight Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) assessments if administering both programs, or PHAS if only administering public housing. (2) Small PHA - A PHA that is not designated as PHAS or SEMAP troubled, that owns or manages less than 250 public housing units and any number of vouchers where the total combined units exceed 550. (3) Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Only PHA - A PHA that administers more than 550 HCVs, was not designated as troubled in its most recent SEMAP assessment and does not own or manage public housing. (4) Standard PHA - A PHA that owns or manages 250 or more public housing units and any number of vouchers where the total combined units exceed 550, and that was designated as a standard performer in the most recent PHAS and SEMAP assessments. (5) Troubled PHA - A PHA that achieves an overall PHAS or SEMAP score of less than 60 percent. (6) Qualified PHA - A PHA with 550 or fewer public housing dwelling units and/or housing choice vouchers combined and is not PHAS or SEMAP troubled. A. PHA Information. A.1 PHA Name: __County of Hawai’i Office of Housing and Community Development______________ PHA Code: ___HI002____________ PHA Plan for Fiscal Year Beginning: (MM/YYYY): __07/2025____________ PHA Inventory (Based on Annual Contributions Contract (ACC) units at time of FY beginning, above) Number of Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs) __2,130_______________ PHA Plan Submission Type: Annual Submission Revised Annual Submission Availability of Information. In addition to the items listed in this form, PHAs must have the elements listed below readily available to the public. A PHA must identify the specific location(s) where the proposed PHA Plan, PHA Plan Elements, and all information relevant to the public hearing and proposed PHA Plan are available for inspection by the public. Additionally, the PHA must provide information on how the public may reasonably obtain additional information of the PHA policies contained in the standard Annual Plan but excluded from their streamlined submissions. At a minimum, PHAs must post PHA Plans, including updates, at the main office or central office of the PHA. PHAs are strongly encouraged to post complete PHA Plans on their official website. 1990 Kino’ole Street, Suite 102 Hilo, Hawai’i 96720 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy, Bldg B, 2nd Floor Kailua-Kona, Hawai’i 96740 www.hawaiicounty.gov/EH PHA Consortia: (Check box if submitting a joint Plan and complete table below) Participating PHAs PHA Code Program(s) in the Consortia Program(s) not in the Consortia No. of Units in Each Program Lead HA: Page 2 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) B. Plan Elements. B.1 Revision of Existing PHA Plan Elements. a) Have the following PHA Plan elements been revised by the PHA since its last Annual Plan submission? Y N Statement of Housing Needs and Strategy for Addressing Housing Needs. Deconcentration and Other Policies that Govern Eligibility, Selection, and Admissions. Financial Resources. Rent Determination. Operation and Management. Informal Review and Hearing Procedures. Homeownership Programs. Self Sufficiency Programs and Treatment of Income Changes Resulting from Welfare Program Requirements. Substantial Deviation. Significant Amendment/Modification. (b) If the PHA answered yes for any element, describe the revisions for each element(s): B.2 New Activities. – Not Applicable Page 3 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) B.3 Progress Report. A. Expand the supply of assisted Housing on Hawai’i Island 1. Apply for additional Section 8 Program vouchers should they become available The county of Hawai’i, Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) has successfully applied for 46 additional Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers. The VASH program is a collaborative effort between HDU and VA to provide rental assistance combined with supportive services. These vouchers are vital in addressing homelessness among our veteran populations offering not only housing stability but access to healthcare, health services and case management. 2. Adopt strategies and options that maintain the maximum program size of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program The OHCD has implemented a 110% FMR for seven island-wide zip codes—96719, 96725, 96738, 96739, 96740, 96743, and 96745 while maintaining the existing FMR for all other island-wide zip codes at 110% since October 1, 2023. This approach incentivizes landlord participation, optimizes budgeting and supports voucher affordability. Flexibility through short-term adjustments, like portability restrictions during funding shortfalls, and long-term strategies, such as project-based vouchers, enhance program sustainability. Collaboration with local agencies and data-driven decision-making optimize operations. Tenant support through counseling and self-sufficiency programs further stabilizes tenancies and improves program effectiveness. The OHCD will continue to actively monitor voucher utilization rates and adjust issuance practices to align with budgetary constraints by utilizing HUD’s Two-Year Tool along with the PHA software system to predict leasing and spending outcomes. 3. Explore ways to expand serve delivery to all housing markets on Hawai’i Island The OHCD continues to offer in-person appointments at its East and West Hawaii offices and has expanded services to include a Waimea location, providing more opportunities and easier access for families. To improve efficiency and reduce barriers, OHCD has streamlined its application process and implemented digital tools such as online applications and multiple communication channels, including social media, community radio, and newsletters, to reach a wider demographic. The office also collaborates with other government agencies and nonprofits to maximize resources and align services with community values. By focusing on accessibility, efficiency, and community engagement, OHCD aims to enhance service delivery and ensure more participants benefit from its housing programs. The landlord liaison position continues to offer in person and virtual landlord orientation sessions to encourage landlord participation and will continue to explore solutions and practices to ensure more available affordable units. B. Improve the quality and efficiency of assisted housing 1. Obtain, improve, and maintain a score equaling a “high performer” status on the Section Eight Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) The OHCD obtained a SEMAP score of 88% for fiscal year 2023-2024. This is an increase from 77% for fiscal year 2022-2023. The overall rating is standard. We will continue to work on improving our rating to achieve high performer status through internal audit of files. In June 2024 OHCD staff participated in a three-day training session provided by Nan McKay and Associates. Staff goal setting and evaluation are ongoing. OHCD will continue to utilize Nan McKay, Inc. and HAI Group for program related training needs. 2. Maximize the utilization of available vouchers As of October 2024, the year-to-date (YTD) leasing percentage is 99%. In 2024, the County of Hawaii exceeded its allocated number of vouchers. The OHCD successfully decreased overutilization by closely monitoring voucher usage and tracking attrition rates. As households exited the program or became self-sufficient, the OHCD adjusted voucher issuance, accordingly, ensuring funding levels alighted with program capacity. The OHCD will continue to track both HCV and Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), utilizing HUD’s guidance on improving success rates while staying updated on newly issued policies and recommendations. 3. Explore new and existing ways to fund, coordinate and link supportive services to housing The OHCD continues to collaborate with community partners to secure and link program participants to the services available. OHCD continues to link supportive services to housing through the Coordination Center Neighborhood Place of Puna and Kona, Hope Services, Catholic Charities, Hawaii Island Community Development Corporation (HICDC) Self-Help Housing Program (homeownership) and financial empowerment services, Hawaiian community Assets where their goal is to empower individuals and families to achieve and maintain economic self-sufficiency. Page 4 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) By fostering collaboration, leveraging resources and embedding supportive services within housing, OHCD can enhance the well-being of participants and improve housing stability outcomes. 4. Review and update the OHCD administrative plan as needed The OHCD continues to review and update the HCV administrative plan to ensure that policies follow HUD regulations and meet the needs of the OHCD and the population served. Housing Opportunity through Modernization Act of 2016 (HOTMA) regulations are being incorporated into the administrative plan for the upcoming fiscal year 2024-2025 and has been implemented based on HUD guidance. The Administrative plan allows staff to implement and manage housing programs effectively and ensures consistency, compliance with regulations, and transparency in the decision-making processes helping to achieve program goals while serving the community efficiently. C. Increase Housing Choices 1. Continue to administer and promote the Homeownership Option Program (HOP) HOP is promoted to all program participants. The HOP coordinator continues to provide phone and in-person informational meetings to interested participants in East and West Hawaii. The OHCD has continued to offer weekend informational meetings on request to accommodate families who work Monday through Friday. To date, there has been 7% increase in families utilizing a HOP voucher. 2. Develop and promote working partnerships with landlords around Hawai’i Island to encourage participation with the HCV program. The landlord liaison continues to focus on maintaining current landlord partnerships by engaging in open communication keeping owners and property managers abreast of policy and procedural changes. This position is responsible for increasing owner/agent participation by fostering new relationships, developing, and implementing innovative ways to market the need for partnerships. Outreach is done through social media, the County of Hawaii website, newsletters, resource fairs and virtual/in-person presentations. The landlord liaison has recently implemented a new landlord tracking system to increase transparency in program administration and landlord engagement outcomes and is in the process of creating an online procedure to make it easier for landlords to list their available units. 3. Research and explore for additional funding sources for landlord incentive programs. The OHCD actively refers program participants to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) through the Neighborhood Place of Puna, ensuring landlords receive timely rental payments. ERAP provides direct financial assistance to landlords on behalf of eligible tenants facing financial hardship, helping to prevent rental arrears, reduce vacancies, and promote housing stability. By utilizing ERAP, landlords can secure reliable rental income while supporting tenants in maintaining their housing, fostering a more sustainable rental market on the Big Island. D. Promote Self-Sufficiency 1. Increase the number of families enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program by promoting program participation at annual re-exams and by displaying visual displays in interviewing cubicles. During calendar year 2024 there was a total of 65 FSS participants including 10 graduates totaling a combined escrow pay out of $154,855.50 with two graduates moving to the HCV Homeownership Option Program. The FSS program continues to expand efforts for more West Hawaii program participants by holding West Hawai’i bi-monthly informational meetings, on-site visits, and weekend opportunities to learn more about the FSS program. The FSS Coordinator continues to promote the program to all program participants through annual flyer announcement mailings, briefings, displaying brochures in the OHCD waiting room, OHCD newsletters, social media, the County of Hawaii website, and displays in the interviewing cubicles. 2. Increase and promote awareness of the American Job Center to new and current participants HCV and FSS participants are continuously encouraged to seek assistance form the American Job Center. The OHCD continues to work with staff from the American Job Center to search for additional opportunities to connect participants to new and expanding employment options. The FSS Program Coordinator utilizes the American Job Center monthly to enroll new FSS families. E. Seek partnerships that will further the goal of affordable housing opportunities 1. Continue to maintain partnerships with community, Federal and State agencies The OHCD continues to maintain its relationships with local, state and federal developers, non-profit organizations, coalitions, agencies, and legislators in an effort to advance outcomes in affordable housing, supportive housing and permanent housing with supports. Fiscal year 2024 outcomes of note are: Page 5 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) The OHCD actively engages in evaluating potential future uses for vacant portions of various housing sites. This includes reviewing and sharing the results of questionnaire surveys, documenting public comments, and exploring the feasibility of permanent housing solutions with integrated supportive services. These services may include mental health support, substance abuse treatment, and other essential resources aimed at promoting long-term housing stability and resident well-being. ,QFROODERUDWLRQZLWK)LQDQFLDO(PSRZHUPHQW6HUYLFHVWKH&RXQW\RI+DZDLұLLVGHGLFDWHGWRSURPRWLQJKRXVLQJ stability and strengthening low- and moderate-income communities. Our goal is to empower individuals and families to achieve and sustain economic self-sufficiency through a comprehensive approach that integrates financial education, access to affordable housing resources, and employment support. Through our valued partnership with Hawaiian Community Assets, we connect residents with these essential services, fostering long-term financial stability and housing security across Hawai'i County. 2. Participate in the Community Alliance Program (CAP) regularly, in an effort to end homelessness The OHCD continues to participate with the CAP monthly meetings, activities, and initiatives. Currently over 40 organizations and allies participate in CAP following a Housing First (low barrier system to house) and provide follow-up services island wide. In previous years, CAP implemented a Coordinated Entry System (CES) where referrals can be made to the appropriate organizations for housing needs and opportunities. F. Ensure equal opportunity and affirmatively further fair housing 1. Ensure access and suitable living conditions for families utilizing federally assisted housing regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, martial status, disability, and HIV infection. Fair Housing information, resources, and topics are integrated in landlord, tenant, and community education through various channels. In-person and virtual training are coordinated with the State of Hawai’i and other partner organizations to provide comprehensive education. Websites, social media platforms, newsletters, and email blasts are used to increase the dissemination of Fair Housing information and raise awareness among Hawai‘i Island residents, property managers, owners, real estate agents and landlords. Additionally, the OHCD Landlord Orientation and Landlord Handbook emphasize federal and state Fair Housing laws, educating landlords on legal requirements, suitable living conditions, and the inspection process. Each April, Fair Housing Month is observed with an annual virtual Fair Housing Conference organized in partnership with the State of Hawai‘i, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the counties of Hawai‘i, Maui, and Kaua‘i, the Legal Aid Society of Hawai’i and other organizations. The conference features a series of free online events designed to help participants better understand and comply with Fair Housing laws. This collaborative approach ensures widespread education and promotes adherence to Fair Housing regulations across the state. 2. Continue to improve the dissemination of Fair Housing information to new and existing participants The OHCD regularly reviews federal and state Fair Housing laws during its two-hour voucher briefing sessions. As part of these sessions, the Nan McKay Fair Housing education video is shown to ensure consistent education. Fair Housing information is also included in briefing packets provided to all participants. Additionally, Fair Housing educational materials and webinar details are shared through OHCD newsletters directed at participants, landlords, and the public. The OHCD continuously updates its Fair Housing website with the latest information and encourages participants to contact the OHCD Fair Housing Officer for assistance via phone, email, or in person with any questions or concerns. 3. Schedule and encourage annual fair housing training and/or webinars for staff The OHCD has implemented mandatory Fair Housing training and webinars for staff, as part of staff development and ensures consistent participation, with sessions included in onboarding and annual refresher courses. Topics include any update to laws and in-depth topics such as reasonable accommodation and assistance animals. OHCD staff are encouraged to attend any additional training when available. G. Improve housing delivery system 1. Continue to provide online fillable forms, waitlist information, applications to various voucher and project-based voucher programs, and landlord and tenant informational documents pertaining to subsidized housing The OHCD continues to utilize www.waitlistcheck.com to manage its waiting list status and accept housing applications online when the waitlist is open. To streamline the application process, fillable PDF portability forms remain available. The County of Hawai‘i website provides tenants with essential program information, including Page 6 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) utility allowance schedules, VAWA forms, and other required and optional reporting documents, simplifying the submission process. Landlords can access important resources on the County of Hawai‘i website, including information on landlord orientation, program benefits, HQS inspections, fair market rents, and Section 8 requirements. For accurate and up- to-date payment details, landlords are encouraged to use www.hapcheck.com. Designed with the community in mind, the updated website offers improved navigation and an extensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section covering topics such as the waitlist process, tenant and landlord resources, portability procedures, and general inquiries. 2. Support the professional growth of the OHCD staff by providing adequate training opportunities The OHCD continues to conduct regular weekly meetings and training sessions for housing specialists to promote innovative approaches that improve workflow and productivity if needed. These sessions ensure consistency while providing a platform for specialists to discuss process changes openly, focusing on efficiency and best practices. The OHCD has created an operating procedures manual to enhance staff training and improve operational efficiency. This promotes consistency in applying HUD regulations, reducing risk of non-compliance while ensuring that participants receive consistent, high-quality service while providing a framework for resolving disputes. As policies evolve, the operating procedures will be continuously updated, reviewed, and reinforced through regular staff training. As part of its commitment to staff development, OHCD has and will continue to invest in training programs purchased through the HAI Group, allowing staff to earn certifications upon completing the training and passing proctored exams. All housing specialists have successfully completed certifications in HCV Rent Calculation, Effective Interviewing for Program Integrity, and EIV Cyber Security Awareness training, which is required annually. 3. Provide the utility allowance annually The utility allowance was updated in October and effective January 1, 2025, for single family and multi family. The OHCD updates the utility allowance on an annual basis as required by HUD and published on the County of Hawaii website. B.4 Capital Improvements. – Not Applicable B.5 Most Recent Fiscal Year Audit. (a) Were there any findings in the most recent FY Audit? Y N N/A SINGLE AUDIT OF FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS REPORT DATED MAY 7, 2024 (b) If yes, please describe: C. Other Document and/or Certification Requirements. C.1 Resident Advisory Board (RAB) Comments. (a) Did the RAB(s) have comments to the PHA Plan? Y N RAB Meeting Friday, February 21, 2025 at 9:00AM (b) If yes, comments must be submitted by the PHA as an attachment to the PHA Plan. PHAs must also include a narrative describing their analysis of the RAB recommendations and the decisions made on these recommendations. C.2 Certification by State or Local Officials. Form HUD 50077-SL, Certification by State or Local Officials of PHA Plans Consistency with the Consolidated Plan, must be submitted by the PHA as an electronic attachment to the PHA Plan. C.3 Civil Rights Certification/ Certification Listing Policies and Programs that the PHA has Revised since Submission of its Last Annual Plan. Form HUD-50077-ST-HCV-HP, PHA Certifications of Compliance with PHA Plan, Civil Rights, and Related Laws and Regulations Including PHA Plan Elements that Have Changed, must be submitted by the PHA as an electronic attachment to the PHA Plan. Page 7 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) C.4 Challenged Elements. If any element of the PHA Plan is challenged, a PHA must include such information as an attachment with a description of any challenges to Plan elements, the source of the challenge, and the PHA’s response to the public. (a) Did the public challenge any elements of the Plan? Y N If yes, include Challenged Elements. D. Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH). D.1 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH). Provide a statement of the PHA’s strategies and actions to achieve fair housing goals outlined in an accepted Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) consistent with 24 CFR § 5.154(d)(5). Use the chart provided below. (PHAs should add as many goals as necessary to overcome fair housing issues and contributing factors.) Until such time as the PHA is required to submit an AFH, the PHA is not obligated to complete this chart. The PHA will fulfill, nevertheless, the requirements at 24 CFR § 903.7(o) enacted prior to August 17, 2015. See Instructions for further detail on completing this item. Fair Housing Goal: Describe fair housing strategies and actions to achieve the goal The OHCD is committed to achieving fair housing goals as outlined in its Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) in line with 24 CFR § 5.154(d)(5). To increase access to affordable housing, the OHCD will use Housing Choice Vouchers and conduct landlord outreach. To reduce discrimination, the OHCD will continue to provide fair housing training annually for non- English or limited english proficiency speakers and collaborate with local organizations. Fair Housing Goal: Describe fair housing strategies and actions to achieve the goal Fair housing information and resources are available on the OHCD website at www.housing.hawaiicounty.gov/community-resources/fair-housing. The site includes videos, landlord and tenant guidance on common discrimination issues, details on reasonable accommodations, and direct contact information for filing complaints. It also features information about the State’s coordinated Fair Housing webinars, held each April during National Fair Housing Awareness Month. Page 8 of 10 form HUD-50075-HCV (03/31/2024) Fair Housing Goal: Describe fair housing strategies and actions to achieve the goal The OHCD will continue to focus on enhancing training for staff to ensure they are well-versed in fair housing laws, discrimination issues, and best practices for promoting equal housing opportunities. Regular training sessions will equip staff to handle complaints effectively and provide accurate guidance to tenants and landlords. To increase participation in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, the PHA will conduct outreach to recruit new landlords, offering them education on the benefits of the program, incentives, and support to ease the process of renting to voucher holders. These efforts aim to expand housing options and foster a more inclusive rental market.