We agree that the proposed regional forums on fair housing matters would be a good venue for
discussion of all these topics. We do have concern, however, about the creation of 1) new staffing and
related costs, and 2) new governmental infrastructure such as the suggested sub-regional entities that
might address complaints on fair housing. Local governments should be included in any decisions
related to going forward with these recommendations.
In particular, we disagree with the recommendation to consider the use of non-federal grant funds to
supplement federal grant funds for these fair housing program purposes. In pursuing the goals for fair
housing under the AI, the county is fulfilling its obligations to the US Department of Housing and Urban
Development as a recipient of federal funding. While furthering fair housing is a laudable goal, it is not
necessarily considered a priority destination for local tax revenues in light of state revenue cutbacks to
local governments, declines in property taxes to local governments, drops in sales and other taxes in
light of economic conditions in recent years, and concurrent escalating service and materials costs. The
governments of BACOG would not support county/local tax funds supporting new county staff and
programs that are driven by the federal government when there is an option for these costs to be
entirely provided out of the county’s federal program funding such as CDBG. If the proposed fair
housing costs exceed the allowable federal guidelines, then the fair housing budget should be limited to
what IS allowable.
Thank you for your consideration of our comments. The AI report represents a fair assessment of
conditions and a vast improvement over previous reports. The officials of BACOG appreciate the efforts
taken by county staff and officials to ensure a quality report from the consultant.
Sincerely yours,
Janet L. Agnoletti
Executive Director
cc:
Chairman and Members, BACOG Executive Board
Aaron Lawlor, County Board Chairman
Nick Sauer, County Board Member
Craig Taylor, County Board Member
Jodi Gingiss, Community Development Administrator
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