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Ms. Williams spoke about First Federal's commitment to the community and profile of products <br /> and services. She highlighted First Federal's investment in financial education, which it provides <br /> in community seminars and online. She also highlighted that First Federal made a grant to First <br /> Suburbs Consortium to research housing codes. Based on this research, two infill homes have <br /> been built on infill lots in suburban communities. <br /> Councilmember Bullock applauded the work of First Federal and noted that it successfully <br /> weathered the 2008 financial crisis, due in part to its responsible business practices. <br /> At the invitation of Councilmember Marx, Director Berry spoke of the services provided by the <br /> Department of Human Services and the integral role they play in affordable housing and aging in <br /> place. In response to the discussion regarding parking, he advocated for maintaining and <br /> expanding parking so that seniors and those with mobility issues can access their homes and <br /> businesses. <br /> Councilmember Baker clarified that he supports additional accessible parking within the <br /> commercial corridor and particularly around the Westerly. <br /> Councilmembers made additional remarks about the concept of accessibility for all ages and <br /> abilities regardless of circumstances. <br /> In response to questions from Councilmember Bullock, Mr. Heckelmoser characterized <br /> affordable housing as a math problem. Subsidies can be used to supplement building costs, <br /> which allow for more affordable rents to be offered, yet sometimes these rents are still out of <br /> reach for those making 30% AMI. He clarified that this challenge persists regardless of whether <br /> a multi-family or single-family home is being built. He remarked further on the financially <br /> challenges of affordable housing and spoke of the long-term plans and goals of his organization. <br /> Councilmember Bullock remarked that the city should consider using land that comes into its <br /> possession to support development of affordable housing and suggested additional future roles <br /> the city can play to facilitate the goal of affordable housing. <br /> Mr. Andrews requested action steps for future follow up including: <br /> • Find funding sources to help abate homeowner issues with trees, garages, fences, and <br /> driveways. Currently HUD restricts funds from being used on these structures. <br /> • Increase the number of homeowners eligible for the HELP loan—current eligibility is <br /> restricted to properties valued at less than $250,000. <br /> • Deed restrict city-owned properties to keep a house affordable into perpetuity. <br /> • Have the city purchase foreclosed properties. <br /> Chairman Bullock made closing remarks, thanking all participants for their input and reiterating <br /> the goals of this series of hearings. <br /> Housing, Planning & Development Committee adjourned at 7:30 p.m. <br /> 4 <br />