Explanation
BACKGROUND: This ordinance authorizes the appropriation and expenditure of Community Development Block Grant funds in the amount of $500,000.00 and authorizes the Director of the Department of Development to enter into grant agreement with the Young Men's Christian Association of Central Ohio (YMCA) in an amount up to $500,000.00.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocated Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funds to the City of Columbus as authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Public Law 116-136. These special CDBG funds are to be used to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) among low and moderate income individuals and families and to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19.
The YMCA serves as a stable, affordable housing option for 403 men. 280 units are a part of the Community Shelter Board system or serve as housing for Alvis House clients. Of the total 403 units, 123 units at 40 West Long have their operational costs covered by the revenue that is generated from YMCA memberships and rental fees. Due to the COVID19 outbreak and ensuing stay-at- home order issued by Governor DeWine, there has been a precipitous drop in revenue for the YMCA, with conservative estimates reflecting a decrease of approximately $23 Million dollars. With this loss of revenue, the YMCA is faced with the decision of continuing operations, or putting 123 men back out on the street. Because of this unprecedented scenario, the YMCA is in need of one-time financial support from the City of Columbus for the men whose rents are not supported by the Community Shelter Board or Alvis House.
Use of funds will be for the purpose of providing operating support to the units where tenants have lost their jobs due to the COVID19 crisis and do not currently receive any other source of subsidy.
Emergency legislation is needed in order to continue implementation of effort...
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