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AHA - 2025/04/22ANAHEIM HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 22, 2025 The Anaheim Housing Authority regular meeting of April 22, 2025 was called to order at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber of Anaheim City Hall located at 200 S. Anaheim Blvd. in joint session with the Anaheim City Council. The meeting notice, agenda, and related materials were duly posted on April 17, 2025. MEMBERS PRESENT: Vice -Chairperson Natalie Meeks and Authority Members Ryan Balius, Carlos A. Leon, Natalie Rubalcava, Norma Campos Kurtz, and Kristen M. Maahs. MEMBER ABSENT: Chairperson Ashleigh E. Aitken STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Jim Vanderpool, City Attorney Robert Fabela, and Secretary Theresa Bass ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE AGENDAS: No additions/deletions related to the Anaheim Housing Authority agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTS (all agenda items, except public hearinq� No in -person or electronic public comments were received related to the Housing Authority agenda. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS: Authority Member/Council Member Balius thanked the police and fire departments for their support at the Eggstravaganza last Saturday. He also thanked the police department for arresting a "pimp" on Beach Boulevard. Authority Member/Council Member Maahs highlighted and shared photographs of events she attended, including the Anaheim Public Utilities 35th Annual Water Conservation Art Program held on Wednesday, April 9th at the Honda Center. She stated the event was supported by the Anaheim Ducks, and it was great to see students applying their knowledge of water conservation through art. That same day, she attended an art exhibition in District 5 at Sunkist Elementary School. The event was facilitated by Villages of California, an organization that offers prevention and mental health services for all ages. The students created art displaying what peace means to them, and she thanked them for sharing their art with everyone. On April 13th, she attended the Anaheim Hills Rotary Club's 15th Annual Easter celebration. The event is supported primarily by volunteers. City staff, Fire and Rescue, and Community Services, attended the event and provided resources for attendees. On April 17, Authority Member/Council Member Maahs attended the ribbon cutting and grand reopening ceremony of Republic Services' Anaheim Recycling Center. A fire closed the facility for three years, and the rebuild and expansion has the latest in efficient technology for processing recyclable materials. Authority Member/Council Member Maahs attended the Miraloma Park & Family Resource Center's Easter celebration on April 17. She recognized Community Services Coordinator Teresa Rodriguez for the remarkable job she does at serving the neighborhood, providing mentorship to staff, and recognizing the needs of the community. Authority Member/Council Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 2 of 9 Member Maahs announced that there will be additional stops for OCTA Route 553, including ARTIC, Katella Avenue, State College Boulevard, Haster Street, Harbor Boulevard, and Disneyland. She stated the additional stops may be helpful for Anaheim residents who work in the Resort District. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava highlighted and shared photographs of events she attended, including the Second Annual Easter Basket Extravaganza event at Mondragon Family Market. Mondragon Family Market is a business that has been in Anaheim for 40 years and she thanked the business owners who brought the community together. She thanked Anaheim Public Utilities, Fire and Rescue, the Police Department, Neighborhood Services, and the Anaheim Police Association for attending the event and providing resources to the community. In recognition of Earth Day, she attended a tree planting event sponsored by Anaheim Public Utilities at Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. Planting the tree helped the students understand the benefits of taking care of the planet and the environment. She shared that Congressman Lou Correa, his staff, and Anaheim High Alumni Association Member Janet Brown attended Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava shared that in collaboration with the Anaheim YMCA and City Church, 500 members of the community attended an egg hunt at Center Greens. She emphasized District 3's park -rich nature and she commended Community Services Director Sjany Larson -Cash and her team for all the things they do throughout the City. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava highlighted the beautification projects at La Palma Park and the efforts to address the unhoused population issue. She noted that a lot of people who were unhoused and residing at La Palma Park have been helped. The Anaheim Police Department HALO team, in collaboration with Public Works, Community Services, Neighborhood Services, and Housing and Community Development provide opportunities for the unhoused populations to identify services that are within the City. She clarified that during the Public Comment portion of the meeting, it is the public's opportunity to address Council and to speak freely if comments are delivered in a respectful manner. She noted that Council does not ignore concerns addressed during public comments, but it is not their turn to speak. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava encouraged everyone with questions to reach out to City staff or email City Council Members directly. Her email address is nrubalcava(o)anaheim.net and the email addresses for other Council Members can be found at )�naheirn,n!+. She thanked all the members of the public who attended the meeting for addressing their issues and concerns. Authority Member/Council Member Leon thanked City Engineer Carlos Castellanos and the Public Works team for securing OCTA M2 funding for Anaheim's Project O (Regional Capacity Program) and Project P (Regional Traffic Signal Synchronization Program) applications. The City of Anaheim will receive approximately $900,000 for Lincoln Avenue and Harbor Boulevard intersection improvements to support the right of way phase of that project, as well as $360,000 for improvements to Lincoln Avenue from Evergreen Street to State College Boulevard to support the engineering phase of the project. Funding in the amount of $3.76 million will support signal synchronization along State College Boulevard from Cliffwood Avenue to Garden Grove Boulevard. Authority Member/Council Member Leon provided an update on the installation of sturdier fencing in District 2 off Nutwood Street, between Katella Avenue and Cerritos Avenue to address public safety and homelessness concerns. He noted that the area is slated to be a future park for the City. He stated that it is a continuous effort, and he thanked all the residents in that area for speaking up and for their patience. Authority Member/Council Member Leon highlighted and shared photographs of events he attended. He noted that April 13 - 19, 2025, is California Mosquito Awareness Week, and he reminded everyone that the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District offers services for mosquitoes, red imported fire ants, rats, and mosquito fish drop off. He recommended scanning the QR code on the PowerPoint slide to Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 3 of 9 request an inspection and learn more about tips and tricks to prevent mosquitoes and other vectors. Authority Member/Council Member Leon thanked everyone who attended the Annual Children's Day Fun Fair. He shared that everyone had an amazing time, and he thanked City departments, nonprofit organizations, and the Anaheim Ducks' Wild Wing for their participation. He thanked Fire Chief Russell for stopping by and interacting with the community. He also thanked all volunteers and the District 2 team for their efforts in making the event a reality and making it a fun event for everyone who attended. Authority Member/Council Member Leon attended an Autism Awareness event with Police Chief Armendariz and his team. He stated that the event was filled with heart, hope, and community. He thanked all the organizers for helping to uplift families and friends on the spectrum and for helping to build a more inclusive community, rooted in understanding, acceptance, and love. Authority Member/Council Member Leon joined Community Services, Public Utilities, Code Enforcement, and the Police Department for a neighborhood cleanup at Colchester Drive in District 2. He thanked Mervin, who is a former Project S.A.Y. student who has become a strong advocate and leader for his neighborhood. He thanked Community Services for taking the lead in making a huge difference in the neighborhood and the community. Authority Member/Council Member Leon shared that his office will be hosting Knafeh with Carlos on April 29th at Knafeh Cafe in Little Arabia. Fire Chief Russell and Police Chief Armendariz will be attending as well. He invited all District 2 residents and business owners to stop by for a sweet treat, a conversation, to provide feedback, and to ask questions. Authority Member/Council Member Leon invited everyone to the Show Off West Anaheim event at Maxwell Park on Saturday, April 2611, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The community event will be filled with entertainment and food, and City departments will be present to provide information and resources for the West Anaheim community. CITY MANAGER'S UPDATE: City Manager Vanderpool shared that as part of the City's Rebuild Beach initiative, the City recently acquired Rainbow Inn property on the west side of town is set for demolition. This will pave the way for future development which will enhance safety, improve quality of life, and support the long-term plans in store for West Anaheim. On Saturday, May 3rd, Community Services will be hosting a community celebration of Cinco de Mayo at Center Greens Park, from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event will be different from the previous Cinco de Mayo events held at La Palma Park due to recent construction. The community celebration will have local entertainment, two headliner bands, vendors, food trucks, community booths, as well as a kid zone and family friendly activities. For information, please call Community Services at (714) 765-5191. At 6:27 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chairperson Meeks recessed the Anaheim City Council to address the Anaheim Housing Authority agenda. CONSENT CALENDAR: Authority Member Kurtz moved to approve the consent calendar as presented, in accordance with reports, certifications, and recommendations furnished each Authority Member and as listed on the consent calendar, seconded by Authority Member Balius. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Vice -Chairperson Meeks and Authority Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES — 0; ABSENT —1 (Chairperson Aitken). Motion carried. AHA177 1. Approve minutes of the Housing Authority meeting of April 8, 2025. At 6:28 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem/Vice-Chairperson Meeks reconvened the Anaheim City Council in joint session with the Anaheim Housing Authority for purposes of the joint public hearing. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 4 of 9 JOINT PUBLIC HEARING: 2. This is a joint public hearing of the Anaheim Housing Authority and the Anaheim City Council, in accordance with Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, regarding the issuance by the Anaheim Housing Authority of its multifamily housing revenue bonds, in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $13,105,723, in order to assist with cost overruns for the Tampico Motel Conversion (a 32-unit permanent supportive rental housing development) located at 151 S. Cenpla Way (formerly 120 S. State College Blvd.). City Council Action: 13137.1 2-A. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-027 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM pursuant to Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 approving the issuance of bonds by the Anaheim Housing Authority for the Tampico Motel Conversion. Housing Authority Action: 13137.1 2-B. RESOLUTION NO. AHA-2025-001 A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE ANAHEIM HOUSING AUTHORITY authorizing the execution and delivery of its multifamily housing revenue note in one or more series in a cumulative and aggregate principal amount not to exceed $13,105,723 for the purpose of financing the acquisition and rehabilitation of the Tampico Motel Conversion Multifamily Rental Housing Project; approving and authorizing the execution and delivery of any and all documents necessary to execute and deliver the note, substantially in the form approved hereby, complete the transaction and implement this resolution, and ratifying and approving any action heretofore taken in connection with the note. Executive Director of the Anaheim Housing Authority/Director of Housing and Community Development Grace Ruiz-Stepter reported that the item is a two-part request, one for action by the City Council authorizing the issuance of bonds in support of the development of the Tampico Motel, and the second authorizing the Housing Authority to issue the bonds. She noted that the bonds are a necessary part of the financing package to complete the full renovation of the Tampico project. She outlined the proposed project timeline, noting that the Housing Authority acquired the site in April 2023, a Request for Proposal (RFP) was solicited, and Jamboree Housing Corporation was selected as the developer. She added that the City attempted to complete the financing package through a Tax Credit Allocation under the 4% tax credit program in August 2023. She noted the program allows for tax credits and bond financing. She explained that the bond financing was used for the first part of the project development to help fund construction. She reported that the tax credit will be used to pay the bonds and other financing. She noted that in addition to the funding from the State, there is over $6 million in Housing Authority contributions and money from CalOptima. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that the purchase of the site was made possible by a $5.5 million earmark from the State, from Senator Tom Umberg's office. She explained that the Housing Authority site was declared surplus land and available competitively to developers. She Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 5 of 9 noted the City was awarded the tax credits and was now ready to proceed, with authorization, to begin the construction of the full remodel of the site. She displayed an aerial image of the 0.5- acre site. She reported that the site will include 31 units of restricted affordable units for transitional age youth, ages 18 to 24. She clarified that the units are advertised as one -bedroom units but are similar to studio apartments with 250 square feet of living space in each of the units. She added that the site is under renovation, where units are being removed to ensure that the site has a common space and space for supportive services. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that the public hearing is required under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA) to ensure that public input is considered during the process. She noted that the purpose of the hearing is to approve bond financing for the private equity in the project and to assist in securing the bond financing needed. She explained that the amount of bond financing issued is not to exceed $13.1 million. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that once the bonds and tax credits are secured, an Affordable Housing Agreement and related documents will be executed. She noted construction is expected to begin in mid -June, with construction slated to take approximately 18 months. She shared that the estimated completion date for the site is September 2026. She displayed a conceptual view of the site, noting staff are seeking to transform the site by including landscaping, color, and architectural design. She noted that the primary entrance will be reconfigured from State College Boulevard for residential use. At 6:35 p.m., Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Meeks opened the public hearing. Paul Hyek proposed that the developer maintain the site as walk-in/walk-out. He noted that there are two Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus stops. He suggested that the developer hire unhoused individuals with trade experience to build and maintain the site. He suggested conducting background checks on union laborers. Melinda Niekum, a District 3 resident and member of Tenants United Anaheim, shared her experience regarding an eviction she experienced at Romneya Mobile Estates, where she resided for the past 25 years. She explained that due to a medical and employment emergency, her family received a three-day pay -or -quit notice. She noted that she provided the full amount to the management company eight days later, who refused the funds and continued with the eviction process. She added that the court sided with the owners of Romneya Mobile Estates. She reported that Senate Bill (SB) 436, the Keeping Californians Housed Act, would have prevented the eviction, which prevents displacement and homelessness of tenants during the eviction process if the tenant can pay back the rent. She explained that currently, tenants can be evicted with three days' notice even if they can pay the rent back. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks requested that Ms. Niekum relate her comments to the public hearing. In response to Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks, Ms. Niekum confirmed her comments are general and not related to the public hearing. Ms. Niekum concluded her comments by urging the public and the Council to support SB 436. R. Joshua Collins encouraged the City Council/Anaheim Housing Authority to move forward with the project. He shared that the City still requires more walk-in shelters. He referenced previous lawsuits and money spent on litigation. He mentioned that he encouraged an individual to Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 6 of 9 provide a public comment to seek assistance because there are no beds available through City Net. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks requested that Mr. Collins direct his comments toward the project. Mr. Collins encouraged the City Council/Housing Authority to support the project. Marc Herbert inquired how the project will be funded once the site is built. He explained that, according to the mid -year budget review, the funds allocated to cover the COVID-19 deficit are expected to be fully depleted. He noted that there will be a deficit of $40 million in each of the following two fiscal years. In response to Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tem Meeks, Mr. Herbert explained that he is referencing how the project will be funded moving forward without State and federal sources. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks explained that the public hearing is being considered for the specified project and asked if Mr. Herbert could relate his comments accordingly. Mr. Herbert continued his comments, explaining that $16 million was allocated for housing and homelessness. He noted that current projections show that funding for that category has decreased. He requested an explanation on how the tenants of the project will be funded, given the budget projections. He explained that State and federal resources are dwindling and suggested that the City implement an entertainment tax. He shared that the presentation should outline the proposed rents and how the rents will be funded, and where the funds will originate. He requested that the City evaluate the process for public engagement to have a dialogue to address community concerns. Secretary/City Clerk Theresa Bass reported that a total of one (1) public comment was received electronically prior to 5:00 p.m. related to the joint public hearing. [A final total of one (1) public comment was received electronically, distributed to the Governing Board of the Anaheim Housing Authority/City Council, and made part of the official records]. — See Appendix. At 6:49 p.m., Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks closed the public hearing. DISCUSSION: Authority Member/Council Member Maahs noted the project was addressed at a recent community meeting. She requested clarification on whether the City or the Housing Authority is at risk of default for the bonds and the impact on the City's budget. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that tax credits from the State help fund the bond issued during the construction phase. She noted the Authority has committed $6.6 million in long-term gap financing and a Project -Based Voucher for the rents and property management services. She explained that those details are embedded into the financing with escalators to protect against default. She reported that the actions are carried out under the legal authority of the Housing Authority, which also protects the City. She explained that staff carefully plan the financing of developments, which is why RFPs are issued to select a developer. She noted that Jamboree Housing Corporation is an experienced developer not only in construction but in long- term financing and property management. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 7 of 9 Authority Member/Council Member Maahs thanked staff and expressed residents' gratitude for the project. In response to Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter noted that the bonds are sold to obtain the construction money for the developer rather than the developer going to a private bank for a pre -construction loan with high interest rates. She explained that once construction is complete, to address permanent financing, the City accesses the tax equity to pay the bonds in combination with the rent paid by the tenants. Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz expressed her support for the project. In response to Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that all 31 units will assist youth leaving the foster care system. She highlighted Orangewood Foundation as a partner for support services for the project. She referenced the accessibility of public transportation near the site to access local schools, job centers, and the Resort. In response to Authority Member/Council Member Kurtz, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that Orangewood Foundation would serve as a supportive services partner to assist youth in finding employment to help pay rent and find housing before they age out of the development. She highlighted Orangewood Foundation's work in helping children exit the foster care system to become self-sufficient, find educational opportunities, and engage in the workforce. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava commended staff on the project. She highlighted former Council Member Faessel's efforts and contributions towards the project. She requested additional information on the requirements to reside at the property and whether individuals require an Anaheim connection. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that an Anaheim connection is required for all of the City's affordable housing products and programs. She explained that the connection can be established through residence in the City, enrollment at Anaheim schools, or working within the City limits. She confirmed that the residents would be aging out of the foster care system and with a connection to the City. She noted that the City hosts Covenant House, which includes a number of Anaheim -connected transitional age youth. She added that staff also engage with the Anaheim Union High School District. In response to Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter reported that vouchers are allocated to the site, and part of the vetting process is that Housing Authority staff collect income requirements and verify the connection to the City. In response to Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava, Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter confirmed that tenants will be responsible for monthly rental payments. She noted that contributions are required for all of the City's affordable housing. She explained that if tenants move in without employment, the Section 8 voucher will cover their rent payments. She noted that the intention is to connect tenants with supportive services for education and job training. She explained that once employed, 30% of their income will be dedicated to their rent contribution. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 8 of 9 Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava requested information on similar projects for transitional housing and lower -income projects. Executive Director Ruiz-Stepter highlighted the El Verano low-income development located on Lincoln Avenue for homeless seniors who have exited shelters. She highlighted Rockwood also located on Lincoln Avenue, for families experiencing homelessness with children connected to Anaheim schools. She also highlighted the first motel conversion property, Esperanza permanent supportive housing, and the Azure development located off Harbor and the 91 freeway, which is currently in development. Authority Member/Council Member Rubalcava expressed her appreciation for the Housing and Community Development department for their support of vulnerable populations in Anaheim. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks highlighted the project, which assists a vulnerable population with a pathway to independence and adulthood. Vice-Chairperson/Mayor Pro Tern Meeks noted the action will be voted upon separately by the two governing bodies, beginning with the City Council. City Council Action: MOTION: Council Member Kurtz moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. 2025-027 _ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ANAHEIM pursuant to Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 approving the issuance of bonds by the Anaheim Housing Authority for the Tampico Motel Conversion, seconded by Council Member Rubalcava. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Mayor Pro Tem Meeks and Council Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES — 0; ABSENT — 1 (Mayor Aitken). Motion carried. Housing Authority Action: MOTION: Authority Member Maahs moved to approve RESOLUTION NO. AHA-2025-001 A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE ANAHEIM HOUSING AUTHORITY authorizing the execution and delivery of its multifamily housing revenue note in one or more series in a cumulative and aggregate principal amount not to exceed $13,105,723 for the purpose of financing the acquisition and rehabilitation of the Tampico Motel Conversion Multifamily Rental Housing Project; approving and authorizing the execution and delivery of any and all documents necessary to execute and deliver the note, substantially in the form approved hereby, complete the transaction and implement this resolution, and ratifying and approving any action heretofore taken in connection with the note, seconded by Authority Member Kurtz. ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES — 6 (Vice -Chairperson Meeks and Authority Members Balius, Leon, Rubalcava, Kurtz, and Maahs); NOES — 0; ABSENT — 1 (Chairperson Aitken). Motion carried. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, without objection, Vice -Chairperson Meeks adjourned the meeting of the Anaheim Housing Authority at 7:02 p.m. Anaheim Housing Authority Minutes of April 22, 2025 Page 9 of 9 Resoectfully submitted, her6sa Bass, CMC Secretary, Anaheim Housing Authority Date: 4/22/2025 2:11:47 PM From "Michael Wauschek" To: "Public Comment" publicconunent@anaheimnet Subject: [EXTERNAL] Agenda 2.a Warning: This email originated from outside the City of Anaheim Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and are expecting the message. Hello my name is Michael wauschek lam concerned citizen We need agenda 2.a we need more this yes we have homeless but by telling them aka forcing themof movement without even bothering to telling themhey we can help you assistance to get offthe streets to helping you to getting offyour street. The time is know Yahoo Mail: Search. Organize, Conquer