Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program - Public Hearing

State of Colorado

Department of Local Affairs/Division of Housing

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program

Public Hearing

1:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2009

Centennial Building, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 318
Denver, Colorado 80203

The Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing is hosting a public hearing in the Founders Room at Mile High United Way to present our Substantial Amendment for Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRP) funding. We will take public testimony on the use of HPRP funding, which is designated for the purpose of assisting individuals and families who would otherwise be homeless. HPRP funds may be used to prevent homelessness by providing financial assistance and services to people who are at risk of losing their housing, or to quickly re-house those who are already homeless.

The public is invited to attend. If you cannot attend in person, you may also send your testimony to [email protected]. If you are a person with disabilities who requires accommodation to participate in this meeting, please contact Mary Miller at 303-866-2978 or [email protected].

Beginning Tuesday, April 28th the Substantial Amendment will be posted on our web site at www.dola.colorado.gov/arra/arra.html

New Training on DOH Applications and Contracts in Grand Junction

DIVISION OF HOUSING APPLICATION
& CONTRACT PROCESS TRAINING

Click here for brochure: http://dola.colorado.gov/app_uploads/docs/2009-05%20Grand%20Junction%20ApplicationTraining%20Brochure.pdf

What you will learn:

* Overview of the new DOH application cycle
and funding policies

* Changes to the application form and
supporting documents

* Overview of Federal regulations
associated with use of funds (Uniform
Relocation, Davis-Bacon, Fair Housing,
Environmental Review, and Lead Based
Paint)

* Review of the contracting, reporting, and
monitoring processes

* Understanding the ongoing compliance
aspects of your contract

Following the presentations, you’ll have an
opportunity to meet with the Developer from
your area. So bring your “work in progress”
applications with you!

May 22, 2009
State Services Building
222 S. 6th St., Room #101
Grand Junction, CO 81501
970-248-7310

New Metro Denver Vacancy and Rent Study - Vacancies Rise

Contact: Ryan McMaken, 303-866-4651

for full report results, please visit the Apartment Association of Metro Denver: http://www.aamdhq.org/

Executive Summary available here: http://dola.colorado.gov/app_uploads/docs/Executive%20Summary-2009-01.pdf

April 29, 2009

Metro Denver apartment vacancies rise to 4-year high


Apartment vacancy rates in the Denver Metro are at their highest level in four years. According to a report released Wednesday by the Apartment Association of Metro Denver and the Department of Local Affairs’ Division of Housing, vacancy rates during the first quarter of 2009 increased to 8.4 percent from last year’s first quarter rate of 5.9 percent. Vacancies are at their highest rate since they were at 9.3 percent during the first quarter of 2005.

The vacancy rate was 7.9 percent during the fourth quarter of 2008.

Vacancies have been rising each quarter since the first quarter of 2008. Vacancies peaked at 13.1 percent during the first half of 2003, eventually fell to 5.3 percent during the third quarter of 2007, and have generally increased since.

“Given current trends in employment, and the overall caution out there about the near-term economy, these numbers aren’t terribly surprising,” said Kathi Williams, Director of the state Division of Housing. “Efforts by renters to economize will continue to affect the demand for rental housing, and will especially affect upper-end newer units. We do expect to see tighter markets at the lower rent levels, however.”

Arapahoe County reported the highest vacancy rate of 9.7 percent, and the Boulder/Broomfield Area reported the lowest rate at 6.0 percent. All counties reported increases in vacancies compared to the first quarter of 2008. Vacancy rates for all counties surveyed were: Adams, 8.4 percent; Arapahoe, 9.7 percent; Boulder/Broomfield, 6.0 percent; Denver, 8.6 percent; Douglas, 7.1 percent; and Jefferson, 7.6 percent.

In general, a vacancy rate of 5 percent is considered the “equilibrium” rate. Rates below 5 percent indicate tight markets.

Observers noted that vacancies tend to increase during the first quarter, but that current trends indicate more than seasonal shifts.

“Historically, there is an upward movement in the vacancy rate during the fourth and first quarters of the year,” said Gordon Von Stroh, Professor of Business at The University of Denver, and the report’s author. “However, because of the downturn in the economy, the first quarter’s number is substantially greater than what we would normally expect.”

During the first quarter of 2009, average rents rose to $881.92 when compared to $861.26 from the first quarter of last year. Average rents are at a one-year low, however, coming in at the lowest level since the first quarter of last year. Average rents peaked at $892.22 during the third quarter of 2008, and have fallen each quarter since.

When compared to the first quarter of 2008, only Douglas and Jefferson Counties reported decreases in average rents for the first quarter of 2009. All counties reported decreases in rents for 2009’s first quarter when compared to the fourth quarter of 2008.

The highest average rent was reported in Douglas County at $1002.54, and the lowest was reported in Jefferson County at $814.84. Average rents for all counties were: Adams, $863.63; Arapahoe, $859.01; Boulder/Broomfield, $942.18; Denver, $901.44; Douglas, $1002.54; and Jefferson, $814.84.

The Vacancy and Rent Surveys are a service provided by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs’ Colorado Division of Housing and the Apartment Association of Metro Denver to renters and the multi-family housing industry on a quarterly basis. The Colorado Vacancy and Rent Survey reports averages and, as a result, there are often differences in rental and vacancy rates by size, location, age of building, and apartment type. The Report is available through the Apartment Association of Metro Denver at www.aamdhq.org; and limited information is available online at the Division of Housing web site: http://dola.colorado.gov/cdh/


# # #

Monday, April 27, 2009

New resources for writing grants and proposals

With New RFPs and other opportunities for grants from the Division of Housing, these resources may be helpful:

Foundation Center Proposal Writing Seminar

In challenging economic times, you and your staff need to know the best fundraising practices. Foundations present distinct challenges and opportunities for nonprofit grantseekers. The Foundation Center, the nation's leading authority on philanthropy, is presenting our popular Proposal Writing Seminar on May 21st in Colorado Springs, CO.
More than 37,000 grantseekers have strengthened their skills with our most popular seminar. Expert instructors will teach you to craft a comprehensive, compelling proposal package, step by step. You'll hear what grantmakers have to say about proposals, and gain valuable insight into the review process.

Proposal Writing Seminar
Date: Thursday, May 21st
Place: Penrose Library
20 N. Cascade Ave.
Colorado Springs, CO
Course fee: $195 per registration

Special Discount: Save $25 for each additional registration!



REGISTER ONLINE
Scholarships are available for smaller nonprofits. For details, visit: http://foundationcenter.org/getstarted/training/scholarships.html





Grant Writing USA workshop



Grant Writing Workshop in Colorado Springs, CO | June 11-12, 2009

The City of Colorado Springs, Colorado and Grant Writing USA will present a two-day grant writing workshop in Colorado Springs, June 11-12, 2009. Beginning and experienced grant writers from area nonprofits are encouraged to attend.

We are excited to offer a special tuition rate of $375 to the nonprofit community. This rate includes all materials: workbook and accompanying 420MB resource CD that's packed full of tools and more than 200 sample grant proposals. Seating is limited, online reservations are necessary. Please use code "CONPO" to receive this $50 discount at registration. Tuition payment is not required at the time of enrollment.

For more information including venue location and maps, graduate testimonials and instant, online enrollment, please visit:

http://grantwritingusa.com/events/write/csco0609.html

Contact:

Cathy Rittenhouse
Grant Writing USA
800.814.8191
[email protected]

Request for Applications Posted: Weatherization Service Providers

Request for Applications Posted:
Weatherization Service Providers

The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) has posted a Request for Applications (RFA) on the GEO website.

The solicitation can be found by clicking here: http://www.colorado.gov/energy/index.php?/policy/weatherization-assistance/

The GEO has issued this RFA to solicit applications from organizations that are interested in providing weatherization services in the following regions:


The SW portion of Region 4: Saguache, Mineral, Rio Grande, Conejos, Costilla & Alamosa Counties
Region 3: Dolores, Montezuma, La Plata, Archuleta, & San Juan Counties

Interested applicants should read and understand the RFA and all associated attachments before submitting an application.

All parties intending to apply for this grant must send an email to [email protected], subject "WX Request for Applications - Intent to Apply", as soon as possible. The email should include contact information for the applicant's main point of contact to ensure that they are included on all correspondence pertaining to this application. A mandatory applicants meeting for these grants will be held at the GEO on May 22 from 8am - 5pm. Details about this meeting will be sent to the contact you provide in the email mentioned above.


# # #

Updates on Status of HUD Notices

Status of HUD Notices

There are several HUD notices, pertaining to both the Neighborhood Stabilization Program and to programs created or funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) that are currently pending. The publication of several of the notices has been delayed in the interest of insuring consistency among the various requirements associated with these programs. The following is a summary of the status of those notices and related activities, based on discussions between COSCDA and HUD staff.

CDBG-R : HUD is expected to issue a Notice concerning the use of the $1 billion in additional CDBG funds included in ARRA "imminently". Issuance of the guidance has apparently been delayed by "legal issues" most of which have now been resolved in discussions between HUD and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Grantees should be prepared for very specific direction with respect to use of the CDBG-R funds and for requests for some additional information beyond what is usually required for use of CDBG funds. There is considerable concern that CDBG-R funded projects must be consistent with the goals of the recovery bill as well as eligible under CDBG regulations. As a result, there will be a strong emphasis on accountability in examining whether grantees are achieving the intent of the legislation with respect to economic stimulus and appropriateness of the projects they choose to fund. In addition, all projects funded will be listed on Recovery.gov, the government-wide website established to describe and track recovery spending. HUD plans a series of webinars to discuss the use of the CDBG-R funding following publication of the notice. HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan may also provide advice to grantees in a letter expected to accompany grant notification letters for FY2009 CDBG funds. These letters are expected to go out before the end of the month.

Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) : HUD is planning to release an NSP "Bridge" Notice which will include information on errors and omissions regarding the October 6, 2008 Federal Register Notice on the first round of NSP funding. It will also include guidance on changes to the first round of NSP funds resulting from the ARRA which authorized the second round of NSP funds. In addition, it will include HUD's responses to several requests for policy changes to the NSP by COSCDA and other housing groups. (See COSCDA's letter to HUD which includes these requested NSP changes at www.coscda.org.) Although COSCDA has expressed the importance of NSP grantees receiving this information as soon as possible to clarify eligible activity questions, HUD could not provide a firm date for when the Bridge Notice would be released, stating that it has been delayed partially due to preparation of the upcoming FY2010 HUD budget. HUD is also working on the Notice regarding the second round of NSP funds, which will be distributed competitively. The ARRA requires that this Notice be published by May 4, 2009. The Notice will address two pots of funds in this new round of NSP funding - $1.93 billion of regular NSP funds, and $50 million in competitive technical assistance funds to build local capacity to administer NSP programs.

Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP): HUD is in the process of finalizing its Notice regarding the Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) authorized by ARRA. The Program will provide $2.25 billion to be used for gap financing for Low-Income Housing Tax Credit projects. HUD realizes that some tax credit allocating agencies have had little experience with meeting federal requirements which will apply to TCAP, such as Davis Bacon and Environmental rules, so HUD is planning to provide technical assistance to TCAP grantees that need this assistance. No specific date was provided for the provision of the technical assistance or for the release of the Notice.

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRP): The Notice related to the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program was issued on March 19, 2009, as required by ARRA. Grantees should be completing their Consolidated Plan substantial amendments to submit to HUD by May 18, 2009. According to HUD, all correctly completed substantial amendments will be reviewed by July 2, 2009. HUD will host nine 1 and ½ day technical assistance meetings during May and June for grantees and potential subgrantees to learn more about the HPRP and how it is to be administered. For dates and locations of these meetings, see http://registration.hudhre.info/hprp/training.nsf/content/index.html

Friday, April 24, 2009

Comment from El Paso Cty Public Trustee on yesterday's Realty Trac Report

Yesterday, several media outlets wrote/broadcast about a report issued by Realty Trac that asserted that Colorado Springs is #1 in the state for foreclosure filings. While that may be true, the data reported by Realty Trac is highly questionable. Official, accurate statistics on foreclosures are reported to the Colorado Division of Housing by each county’s Public Trustee. I expect that the official 1st Quarter Report will be issued shortly.

While the ledes in the published articles asserted that Colorado Springs led in “new foreclosure filings,” the articles later defined this as “foreclosure activity,” meaning “notices of default, foreclosure auctions and bank repossessions.” I have no idea what Realty Trac is actually counting to get to their figure of 1876. In El Paso County last quarter, we recorded 1292 Notices of Election and Demand, the document that initiates a foreclosure. We sold 522 properties at auction, and issued deeds in 519. There is no way to add those numbers and arrive at 1876. Last year, the sheriff processed an average of 6 foreclosures per quarter, so that doesn’t account for the difference. I do not know how RT would know how many “notices of default” were sent to property owners by their lenders - nor would that equate to a foreclosure.

The CSBJ published a more detailed table on foreclosures per zip code. This data is wildly at odds with what we can report. For example, the graph shows 80916 with the highest number, at 72. In fact, we recorded 113 NEDs for that zip code - over 50% greater than RT shows. Next on their list was 80907, with 58 according to RT. In fact, 80907 had one of the lowest rates of NED filing, with only 38 recorded. It seems unlikely that RT is counting sales, since there were only 117 NEDs recorded in 80907 all of last year - with only about 60% of NED filings resulting in sale, it seems unlikely that 58 properties in that zip code went to sale in that one quarter.

I could further discuss the data, but the bottom line is that the Realty Trac data do not align with anything this office can support. The Colorado Public Trustee system is unique, and its figures are difficult to compare those from other states. Please rely on official data collected by the Public Trustees and reported through the Colorado Division of Housing.


Best regards,


Tom


Thomas S. Mowle

El Paso County Public Trustee

$90,000 awarded for development of Imagine! Longmont SmartHome

$90,000 awarded for development of Imagine! Longmont SmartHome

DOLA's Division of Housing has announced that $90,000 in HOME funds has been awarded for increasing the availability of affordable housing for the developmentally disabled in Longmont.

Developmental Disabilities Center, d/b/a Imagine!, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation and the Community Centered Board serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties, was awarded a grant in the amount of $90,000 to assist with the construction costs of its HUD 811 SmartHome Group Home for very low-income individuals (below 50% AMI) with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities at 1608 Otis Street in Longmont, Boulder County. Imagine! Housing Corp. II (a non-profit subsidiary corporation) will operate the property. The home will be a 3,500 sq. ft. fully accessible home and will provide 6 consumer bedrooms and one bedroom for overnight staff. Residents will contribute 30% of their income towards rent and HUD will provide ongoing rental assistance for the balance of the rent amount. The home will showcase cutting-edge technology for enhancing livability for this special needs population.

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program -- Public Hearing

State of Colorado

Department of Local Affairs/Division of Housing

Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program

Public Hearing

2:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Mile High United Way

2505 18th Street
Denver, Colorado 80211

The Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing is hosting a public hearing in the Founders Room at Mile High United Way to present our Substantial Amendment for Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRP) funding. We will take public testimony on the use of HPRP funding, which is designated for the purpose of assisting individuals and families who would otherwise be homeless. HPRP funds may be used to prevent homelessness by providing financial assistance and services to people who are at risk of losing their housing, or to quickly re-house those who are already homeless.

The public is invited to attend. If you cannot attend in person, you may also send your testimony to [email protected].

Beginning Tuesday, April 28th the Substantial Amendment will be posted on our web site at www.dola.colorado.gov/arra/arra.html

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

OCC Offers Tips to Avoid Mortgage Modification and Foreclosure Avoidance Scams

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2009
Contact: Bryan Hubbard
(202) 874-5770
OCC Offers Tips to Avoid Mortgage Modification and Foreclosure Avoidance Scams

WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today issued a consumer advisory to help homeowners avoid scams that claim to help them save their homes, but can cause them to lose their homes and their money.

Con artists prey on homeowners who are falling behind on their loans in many ways. For instance, they may tell consumers to stop paying their mortgages while the con artist works out a modification agreement with the lender and they may require payment of large up-front fees for their “services.” In reality, the scammer pockets the money and never provides the promised services. In some schemes, homeowners have been conned into transferring title to their homes. They may be told that they will be able to lease back or buy back their homes, but the terms of the rent-to-buy agreements are so burdensome that the homeowners are unable to repurchase their homes. Recently, scam artists have also tried to take advantage of the federal government’s mortgage modification and foreclosure avoidance programs by claiming to be connected with, or approved by, the government in some way.

The OCC’s Consumer Advisory offers a list of warning signs that a person or company may be perpetrating one of these scams, and a list of resources to contact for legitimate help. It also reminds consumers having difficulty paying their mortgages that they should always start by contacting their lender or servicer to discuss alternatives their options.

Related Links:

OCC Consumer Tips for Avoiding Mortgage Modification Scams and Foreclosure Rescue Scams (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/ADVISORY/2009-1.html) and (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/ADVISORY/2009-1.pdf)
http://www.helpwithmybank.gov
http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov

###

Monday, April 20, 2009

GOVERNOR PROCLAIMS APRIL AS FAIR HOUSING MONTH

GOVERNOR PROCLAIMS APRIL AS FAIR HOUSING MONTH

Contact: Chris Lines, Public Information Officer, 303-894-7873

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Colorado Fair Housing Practices Act

DENVER - Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. has declared April 2009 Fair Housing Month to raise awareness of the anti-discrimination protections Coloradans receive regarding housing issues. This year is the 41st anniversary of the federal Fair Housing Act, Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968. Colorado was the first state in the nation to make discrimination in private housing illegal in 1959, making this year the 50th anniversary of the Colorado Fair Housing Practices Act. The proclamation can be viewed at the following link: http://www.dora.state.co.us/dora_pages/newsreleases/GovernorHousingProclamation.PDF

"The right to own or rent a home free from unlawful discrimination is fundamental to our democracy," said Steven Chavez, director of the Colorado Civil Rights Division.

The Colorado Civil Rights Division and the Civil Rights Commission, of the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, are the state entities that investigate housing discrimination complaints filed by Colorado residents. The Division wants the public to be aware of housing and lending scams that are popping up in these financial times. Sometimes, through unlawful practices, unscrupulous lenders and mortgage brokers take advantage of borrowers who are attempting to refinance their mortgage to avoid foreclosure of their homes. A lender may discriminate as to whom, or which group, is offered unfavorable terms or rates, including very stiff penalties regarding repayment. The Division strongly recommends that borrowers shop to compare loan terms, review the documents closely, and ask a trusted independent advisor before entering into any loans that appear questionable or which they do not understand.

"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," warns Director Chavez.

If borrowers believe they have been discriminated against with regard to housing or financing because of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, sex, disability, creed or religion, familial or marital status, they can contact the Colorado Civil Rights Division at 1560 Broadway, Suite 1050, Denver, CO 80202, (303) 894-2997 or (800) 262-4845.

Real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and appraisers are regulated by the Colorado Division of Real Estate, also within the Department of Regulatory Agencies. The Division of Real Estate can take action when consumers are defrauded in a real estate transaction, even if the conduct was not because of discrimination. Complaints can be submitted to the Division of Real Estate at 1560 Broadway, Suite 925, Denver, CO 80202, (303) 894-2166.

The Colorado Division of Housing, which is part of the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, also offers consumer foreclosure prevention counseling through their Colorado Foreclosure Hotline, which connects borrowers to housing counselors who can provide information on borrower’s options when facing foreclosure, at (877) 601-HOPE.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Boulder Housing Partners (BHP) receives grant of $225,000

DOLA's Division of Housing has announced that $225,000 in HOME funds has been awarded for increasing the availability of affordable housing in the City of Boulder.

Boulder Housing Partners (BHP) received a grant of $225,000 to help repay a bridge loan for the construction of a new 26-unit apartment building on North Broadway. The site is the former location of BHP’s offices, and is next door to the North Boulder Recreation Center. Immediately behind this site is the Broadway East Community, a former public housing site that BHP recently refinanced and renovated (without state funding). The new building’s unit mix is designed to complement Broadway East’s, and its residents will have access to the new community building and playgrounds at Broadway East. Broadway West will be a three-story structure with underground parking and an elevator, so all units will be both visitable and handicapped adaptable. All units will be affordable at 50% AMI.

Custer County receives CDBG grant of $238,000

DOLA's Division of Housing has announced that $238,000 in CDBG funds has been awarded for increasing the availability of affordable housing in Silver Cliff.

Custer County received a CDBG grant of $238,000 for the acquisition of a site for a new rental housing development in Silver Cliff, Colorado. Silvercliffs Apartments will be factory-built, and a mix of single-family and duplex units. There will be a total of 16 units with a mix of 1, 2, & 3 bedrooms; affordable at 30%, 40%, 50% & 60% AMI.

Gilpin County receives CDBG grant of $52,460

DOLA's Division of Housing has announced that $52,460 in CDBG funds has been awarded for increasing the availability of affordable housing in Gilpin County.

Gilpin County received a CDBG grant of $52,460 to conduct a county-wide Housing Needs Assessment. This will be the first ever assessment done of the housing needs in Gilpin County. It will address the economic and demographic framework, housing inventory, housing market conditions, housing problems, special needs, housing gaps and estimated needs as outlined in the Colorado Division of Housing template, with an emphasis on lower income communities. A full written report will be provided to the CDOH that will cover primary data collection and interpretation as well as specific issues that the local community requested, especially regarding senior citizens.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

$49,500 granted to Rio Blanco County for Housing Needs Assessment

DOLA - Colorado Division of Housing has announced that a $49,500 grant has been made from CDBG funds to pay for a needs assessment for affordable housing in Rio Blanco County, including Meeker and Rangely. The local governments have committed to utilize the study to address the issue of the lack of affordable housing for residents and the work force. The results of the study will be part of a strategic planning process for Rio Blanco County to meet the housing needs in the County.

$74,300 granted to Montezuma County for housing needs assessment

DOLA - Colorado Division of Housing has announced that a $74,300 grant has been made from CDBG funds to pay for a needs assessment for affordable housing in Montezuma County, including Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos. The local governments have committed to utilize the study to address the issue of the lack of affordable housing for residents and the work force, and the City of Cortez has applied for the funding of the study as the lead agency. The results of the study will be part of a strategic planning process for Montezuma County to meet the housing needs in the County.

New web page at DOLA for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

The Department of Local Affairs has a new web page dedicated to information about programs and dollars it will administer as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Information will be updated frequently as it becomes available, so please be sure to check back often.

Go to:
http://www.dola.state.co.us/arra/arra.html

DOLA's ARRA newsletter can be viewed at:
http://www.dola.state.co.us/arra/docs/DOLA_ARRA_NEWSLETTER_04.06.09.PDF
The newsletter will be available monthly and will highlight programs, feature updates and other information of interest related to ARRA.

For questions about the website, to contribute articles or provide feedback, please contact Linda Rice at [email protected] or (303) 866-6249.

Monday, April 13, 2009

New Income Limit information posted

The most recent income limits for Section 8 and for the Low-Income Housing Tax Credits have been posted at the CDH web site. See our "Researchers" page here: http://dola.colorado.gov/cdh/researchers/index.htm#housing_data

Housing agencies: The Governor's Energy Office needs your help.

We at the Division of Housing have received a request from the Governor's Energy Office:


We are in need of vacant homes to perform field assessments on our auditors.
Is this something that you may be able to help us with?

This is the plan:

· 3-separate assessment locations (Denver, Pueblo, Grand Junction)

· Tentative dates

o Metro Denver area (Mid-May)

o Pueblo area (early June)

o and Western Slope (later June)

Metro Area Assessment (18-auditors)

We'd like to get 3-homes for 2-days for assessment purposes (but we'll take whatever we can get)

If only 2-homes are available then we would need them for 3-days

If only 1-home is available we'd need it for 4-days (allowing each auditor about 2hrs to do an audit)

Pueblo Area Assessment (10-auditors, 5-each day)

1 home for 2-days would suffice

Western Slope Assessment (10-auditors, 5-each day)

1 home for 2-days would suffice

If you can help, please contact:

Chris Fuller

Energy Services Specialist
Governor's Energy Office

[email protected]
P: (303) 866-2212

CDH to provide information on Foreclosure Prevention at the April 21 Town Hall mtg in Denver

CDH will be providing information on foreclosure prevention in a partnership with the Colorado Foreclosure Hotline on April 21:

Click here for flyer in PDF format: http://dola.colorado.gov/app_uploads/docs/cbwpa%20foreclosure%20flyer%202.pdf

Understand solutions to financial literacy
and predatory lending.

Hear from your legislators about current
and previous foreclosure legislation.

Speak with foreclosure counselors and real
estate experts about prevention.

Learn about President Obama’s Housing
Plan and how it will help us fight the
foreclosure crisis

Join Us in Saving Our Community!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
6:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.
Blair Caldwell Library
2401 Welton Street
Denver, Colorado 80205



More here: http://dola.colorado.gov/newsletter/main?newsletter_item_id=971

New Asset Management staff at the Colorado Division of Housing

The Division of Housing has recently hired new asset managers.

We welcome Shawn Wright, Stephanie Troller and Melissa Stirdivant to the Asset Management staff at the Division.

The Division assigns Development and Asset Management staff to one of six geographic regions of the state. See here and here to find out if your asset manager has changed.

Click on image for full size:

Developer's Toolkit Workshop, June 2-3 in Denver

Developer's Toolkit Workshop

Join the DOLA/Colorado Division of Housing for an exciting two-day
workshop designed to enlighten participants about the art and science of
affordable housing development. Through role-playing, participants will
attempt to solve the housing challenge facing a typical Colorado
community. Hands-on exercises will provide a working knowledge of the
critical steps necessary to develop an affordable rental housing
community.

Click here for the brochure: http://dola.colorado.gov/app_uploads/docs/2009-06%20DTK%20Brochure.pdf

DOLA/CDOH will be presenting the Developer's Toolkit on June 2 - 3 in Denver,
at the Centennial Building, Room 318. Registrations are due on May 15th.
This class often fills up, so register soon! Mail your check and registration form to Verda Martin at DOLA/CDOH.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept payment by credit card.

Please contact Denise Selders (303-866-4650) or [email protected] with any questions.

Cross-posted here: http://dola.colorado.gov/newsletter/main?newsletter_item_id=969

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Flow chart on funds from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

If you have questions about some of the ARRA programs and how funds will be allocated in Colorado, please see below.

Please click on the flow chart for full size:



How the Homelessness Prevention Funds are allocated:



How the additional CDBG funds are allocated: