HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-063-07/07/2015-ADOPTING THE 2015-2019 FIVE-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN REQUIRED BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND UR RESOLUTION 2015-063
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
ADOPTING THE 2015-2019 FIVE-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN REQUIRED
BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
WHEREAS, the National Affordable Housing Act requires that local governments have a
Consolidated Plan approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in
order to remain eligible for certain federal grant programs, including the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs; and
WHEREAS, since October 2014, City staff has been working with a consultant to
develop the proposed 2015-2019 Five-Year Consolidated Plan (the "Plan") in accordance with
the prescribed format established by HUD; and
WHEREAS, development of the Plan involved extensive public outreach, including a
community questionnaire to which over 500 citizens responded, an open house, stakeholder
interviews, and a 30-day public review period; and
WHEREAS, the Plan, which updates the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan, identifies
affordable housing, community development and human services needs and service gaps, and
defines a course of action and priorities for the community as to how the City expects to spend
anticipated federal funding; and
WHEREAS, six major community goals are outlined in the Plan;
• Increase the supply of affordable housing (includes housing for special sub-
populations such as seniors and persons with disabilities);
• Increase housing opportunities for persons experiencing homelessness;
• Provide programs for homelessness prevention;
• Preserve existing affordable housing inventory;
• Provide assistance for programs that support affordable homeownership; and
• Provide supportive [human] services to improve living conditions;
and
WHEREAS, a copy of the proposed Plan, dated July 7, 2015, is attached hereto and
incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit "A"; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that adoption of the Plan is in the best
interests of the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS that the 2015-2019 Five-Year Consolidated Plan, attached as Exhibit A, is
hereby adopted.
- 1 -
Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins this 7th
day of July, A.D. 2015.
Mayor
ATTEST: FORT co��
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City Clerk *
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EXHIBIT A
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2015 =2019 FIVE -YEAR
CONSOLIDATED PLAN
City of Fort Collins
Social Sustainability Department
321 Maple Street
Fort Collins, CO 80521
970- 221 -6734
http : //www . fcgov . com/socialsustainability/
This Plan prepared with the assistance of Community Strategies Institute , Inc. (CSI ) .
Dated : July 7, 2015
City of
Fort Collins
Social
Sustainability
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 2
OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
Table of Contents
Page
I . 2015 = 2019 Consolidated Plan Narrative 5
Executive Summary 5
The Process 7
Needs Assessment 22
Housing Market Analysis 69
Strategic Plan 114
II . Appendix A : Community Questionnaire Summary 149
III . Appendix Be Community Questionnaire — Individual 177
Respondent Comments
NOTES TO READERS :
1 ) Some document formatting inconsistencies occur because of the need to
accommodate later insertion into the U . S . Department of Housing and Urban
Development' s ( HUD ) web - based document platform .
2 ) Except where required by HUD formatting requirements , this document seeks to
use people -first , respectful language . Examples : " persons experiencing
homelessness " and " persons with disabilities " .
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Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 4
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Executive Summary
ES=05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91 . 200 ( c ), 91 . 220( b )
1 . Introduction
The City of Fort Collins, Colorado is submitting its 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan . The Plan has been
prepared according to HUD requirements . The Plan will govern the City' s investment of federal funds
for persons experiencing homelessness, housing and non - housing community development activities for
the next five year period . This plan will be updated annually through preparation of the Annual Action
Plan .
2 . Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment
Overview
High priority needs identified in the Fort Collins Five-Year Consolidated Plan include both housing and
non - housing community development, persons experiencing homelessness and special population
needs . The City of Fort Collins has developed and managed a robust Citizen Participation process to
solicit resident input on priority needs . The City has integrated that Citizen Participation process with
several substantial research efforts to acquire hard data on the scope of those needs . The City of Fort
Collins' Economic Health Strategic Plan, the Social Sustainability Strategic Plan, the Social Sustainability
Gaps Analysis and the Housing Affordability Policy Study all provide data and recommendations for City
actions to address the needs of both affordable housing and non - housing community development
needs . These various findings have been incorporated into both the Needs Analysis and Market
Assessment sections of the Consolidated Plan .
3 . Evaluation of past performance
Overall , during the last five-year reporting period for Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation
Reports ( CAPERS ) the City has received satisfactory reviews regarding its performance in meeting goals
set forth in the Five-Year Consolidated Plan and each year' s Annual Action Plan . Additionally, HUD
continues to conclude that the City of Fort Collins is administering its programs in a manner consistent
with the applicable regulatory requirements . Review and conclusions are based on solely on
information available to HUD, and do not constitute a comprehensive evaluation or approval of specific
activities . The City of Fort Collins has responded to all technical assistance provided as a part of any
HUD review and evaluation .
4. Summary of citizen participation and consultation process
Citizen and stakeholder participation components are a critical process in the development of the
Consolidated Plan and are a priority for the City of Fort Collins . The Social Sustainability Department
encouraged meaningful public participation in the Consolidated Plan process, especially by low- and
moderate- income residents, as well as those in legally protected classes . The department conducted a
broad consultation process with public and private agencies that provide affordable/subsidized housing,
homelessness prevention and intervention efforts, and health and public/human services .
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Input from a broad range of citizens and citizen groups were collected during the development of the
Five-Year Consolidated Plan . The public was encouraged to participate through multiple modes,
including an online and paper Community Questionnaire; a Community Open House; through submittal
of written comments regarding the draft Five-Year Plan ; and the City Council Public Hearing to adopt the
plan . The Social Sustainability Department notified the public about opportunities to participate in the
process on the City website, through publication in the local newspaper, through non - profit and service
providers, and through other means . Input from citizens was used to determine high priority needs and
five-year goals to meet needs .
5 . Summary of public comments
Apart from minor housekeeping edits from reviewers, there were no public comments received during
the 30-day Public Comment review period for the draft Consolidated Plan .
6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them
One Community Questionnaire respondent comment was not published, since it was viewed as
inflammatory, factually unsubstantiated , and potentially slanderouse . Additionally, personal contact
information contained within two other comments was not published .
7 . Summary
The final City of Fort Collins Five-Year Consolidated Plan and Year 1 Annual Action Plan will be published
in August, 2015, and submitted to the U . S . Department of Housing and Urban Development ( HUD ) .
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The Process
PRm05 Lead & Responsible Agencies 24 CFR 91 . 200 ( b )
1 . Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those
responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source
The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and
those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source .
Agency Role Name Department/Agency
CDBG Administrator FORT COLLINS Social Sustainability Department
HOME Administrator FORT COLLINS Social Sustainability Department
Table 1—Responsible Agencies
Narrative
The Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department allocates federal Housing and Urban Development
( HUD ) CDBG and HOME funds, and local City of Fort Collins funding to housing and human service
agencies to meet the needs of low- and moderate-income citizens . The department also implements
policies promoting and supporting self-sufficiency for low- to moderate- income citizens .
Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
Heidi Phelps
Grant Programs Administrator
Social Sustainability
City of Fort Collins
970 . 221 . 6757
hphelps@fcgov. com
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M10 Consultation - 91 . 100, 91 . 200 ( b ) , 91 . 215 ( I )
1 . Introduction
Citizen and stakeholder participation components are a critical process in the development of the
Consolidated Plan and are a priority for the City of Fort Collins . The Social Sustainability Department
encouraged meaningful public participation in the Consolidated Plan process, especially by low- and
moderate- income people, and those in legally protected classes . The Department conducted a broad
consultation process with public and private agencies that provide affordable/subsidized housing,
homelessness prevention and intervention efforts, and health and public/human services . Many
stakeholders and key informants were consulted during the development of this plan .
Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction' s activities to enhance coordination between
public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health
and service agencies (91 . 215 ( 1 ) ) .
The City of Fort Collins Affordable Housing Board works year- round to advise the City on matters related
to affordable housing in Fort Collins, and assists with preparing the City' s Housing Strategic Plans . The
committee for the current Affordable Housing Strategic Plan under development is comprised of
members of the Affordable Housing Board and CDBG Commission, and staff from the City' s Social
Sustainability Department and Planning Division . A draft document is expected in summer 2015 . In
2014, the City commissioned a Housing Affordability Policy Study ( HAPS ), which identified distressed
populations experiencing cost burden in the Fort Collins rental market. Housing providers and service
agencies, as well as the Fort Collins public, were consulted and involved in public forums related to
housing needs and policies during the development of this study. The City also commissioned a Social
Sustainability Gaps Analysis as part of an initiative to build a cohesive, coordinated approach to
community sustainability across City departments and with community partners . Report authors
interviewed housing providers, private and government health agencies, mental health and other
service providers, and held several public events to review preliminary findings and seek additional input
and insight from the City' s advisory boards and commissions, and the public . Key stakeholders were
invited to review the draft report and provide input into the final document .
Throughout the year, Social Sustainability Department staff work closely with public and assisted
housing providers, as well as private and government health , mental health , and service agencies to;
distribute HUD and City grant funding; identify high priority housing and social service needs that must
be addressed by the City; assess the impact of current efforts and programs to meet needs; and plan for
future programs, projects, and activities to address housing and community development needs .
Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of
persons experiencing homelessness ( particularly chronically homeless individuals and
families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth ) and persons at risk of
homelessness .
Agencies from the Northern Front Range Continuum of Care ( NFRCC) which includes the cities of
Greeley, Loveland and Estes Park meet on a monthly basis . Members represent nonprofits, State and
local governments . The City of Fort Collins sends a representative to participate in these meetings . The
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NFRCC is focused on long term planning and addressing the needs of homelessness on a policy level ;
coordinating the point in time count; and working to meet the requirements of the McKinney-Vento
Homeless Assistance Act as amended by S. 896 HEALTH Act of 2009 . In 2014, the Continuum of Care
hosted a legislative breakfast which was very well attended by elected officials and provided a panel
discussion around affordable housing and the needs of the homeless community. The NFRCC continues
move forward on a coordinated access system ; a robust data system through the Homeless
Management Information System, HMIS) ; and measuring the effectiveness of agencies funded through
the McKinney Vento funding streams .
Describe consultation with the Continuum (s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction ' s area in
determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards and evaluate
outcomes, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the administration of HMIS.
The City of Fort Collins does not receive ESG funding .
2 . Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process
and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other
entities.
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Table 2 — Agencies, groups, organizations who participated
1 Agency/Group/Organization FORT COLLINS HOUSING AUTHORITY
Agency/Group/Organization Type PHA
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation ? Public Housing Needs
How was the Agency/Group/Organization Fort Collins Housing Authority ( FCHA) staff members
consulted and what are the anticipated were interviewed to gather input used to create the
outcomes of the consultation or areas for Housing Needs Assessment and Public Housing Needs
improved coordination ? sections of the Consolidated Plan . The FCHA
provided data related to current clients and those on
the waiting list for services, recent plans and reports,
details about housing developments, future plans for
development, and the needs of FCHA clients .
2 Agency/Group/Organization FORT COLLINS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation ? Market Analysis
How was the Agency/Group/Organization Staff from the Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity were
consulted and what are the anticipated interviewed and provided information and insights
outcomes of the consultation or areas for into the Fort Collins housing market and current
improved coordination ? needs, and attended the Consolidated Plan Housing
Focus Group meeting .
3 Agency/Group/Organization UNITED WAY OF LARIMER COUNTY, INC .
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children
Foundation
What section of the Plan was addressed Non - Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation ?
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How was the Agency/Group/Organization Larimer County United Way staff and volunteers were
consulted and what are the anticipated interviewed to provide information related to school
outcomes of the consultation or areas for readiness for Fort Collins children . The agency is
improved coordination ? coordinating a Be Ready initiative with local childcare
providers, the City, and the Larimer County Early
Childhood Council . The agency also provides funding
to many non - profit providers in Fort Collins, and
coordinates services through the 2 - 1 - 1 call program .
The United Way is working to enhance the collective
impact of all service providers throughout Larimer
County .
4 Agency/Group/Organization DISABLED RESOURCE SERVICES
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services- Housing
Services- Persons with Disabilities
Service- Fair Housing
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation ? Non - Homeless Special Needs
How was the Agency/Group/Organization Disabled Resource Services staff provided information
consulted and what are the anticipated and insights in a key informant interview . The agency
outcomes of the consultation or areas for provides services and housing to persons with
improved coordination ? disabilities . The consultation provided information
related to the need for accessible and affordable
housing for persons with disabilities .
5 Agency/Group/Organization CITY OF FORT COLLINS
Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government- local
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation ? Homelessness Strategy
Economic Development
Market Analysis
Anti- poverty Strategy
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How was the Agency/Group/Organization Many City of Fort Collins department staff were
consulted and what are the anticipated consulted to gather information and insights into
outcomes of the consultation or areas for current City priorities, programs, and initiatives, the
improved coordination ? housing market and conditions, economic
development efforts, neighborhood conditions, City
growth , low- income and special needs populations .
These City departments include : City Manager' s
Office, Social Sustainability, Economic Health Office,
Environmental Services, Community and
Neighborhood Services, and the CNS Planning
Division . Input from City department staff were
considered when developing the Consolidated Plan
goals and priority needs . City Council members were
interviewed individually to gain their insights into
priority needs and goals .
6 Agency/Group/Organization NORTHERN COLORADO AIDS PROJECT ( NCAP ), INC.
( part of Colorado Health Network [CHN ] )
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services- Persons with HIV/AIDS
What section of the Plan was addressed Non - Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation ?
How was the Agency/Group/Organization Staff from the Northern Colorado AIDS Project, part
consulted and what are the anticipated of the Colorado Health Network, provided
outcomes of the consultation or areas for information about the needs of persons living in Fort
improved coordination ? Collins with HIV/AIDS, homeless persons with
HIV/AIDS, and the housing needs of their clients .
7 Agency/Group/Organization NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services- Housing
Services- Homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation ? Homelessness Strategy
Homeless Needs- Families with children
Market Analysis
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How was the Agency/Group/Organization Neighbor to Neighbor staff members were
consulted and what are the anticipated interviewed to gather information and insights into
outcomes of the consultation or areas for housing needs of very low, low, and moderate
improved coordination ? income households; the housing market conditions in
Fort Collins ; homelessness prevention needs;
homebuyer needs; and the service needs of their
clients . Staff also participated in the Housing
Provider Focus Group .
8 Agency/Group/Organization TOUCHSTONE HEALTH PARTNERS
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services- Persons with Disabilities
Services- Health
Health Agency
What section of the Plan was addressed Non - Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation ?
How was the Agency/Group/Organization Touchstone Health Partners staff were interviewed to
consulted and what are the anticipated gather information and insights into the needs of
outcomes of the consultation or areas for persons in Fort Collins with mental health issues .
improved coordination ? Information gathered from Touchstone Health
Partners was used to develop portions of the non -
homeless special needs section of the Consolidated
Plan .
9 Agency/Group/Organization CATHOLIC CHARITIES ( NORTHERN COLORADO )
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services- Elderly Persons
Services- Homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed Homeless Needs- Chronically homeless
by Consultation ? Homeless Needs- Families with children
Non - Homeless Special Needs
How was the Agency/Group/Organization Catholic Charities staff was interviewed to gather
consulted and what are the anticipated information and insights into homelessness,
outcomes of the consultation or areas for homeless services, and the needs of seniors in Fort
improved coordination ? Collins . This information was used to develop the
homeless and non - homeless special needs sections of
the Consolidated Plan .
10 Agency/Group/Organization CROSSROADS SAFEHOUSE
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Victims of Domestic Violence
What section of the Plan was addressed Homeless Needs- Families with children
by Consultation ? Non - Homeless Special Needs
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How was the Agency/Group/Organization Crossroads Safehouse staff was interviewed to gather
consulted and what are the anticipated information and insights into the needs of victims of
outcomes of the consultation or areas for domestic violence and assault . The agency provided
improved coordination ? information about current client needs, growing
needs, and local and agency programs in Fort Collins .
This information was used to create sections of the
homeless and non - homeless special needs sections of
the Consolidated Plan .
11 Agency/Group/Organization HEALTH DISTRICT OF NORTHERN LARIMER COUNTY
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services- Health
Health Agency
What section of the Plan was addressed Non - Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation ?
How was the Agency/Group/Organization The Health District of Northern Larimer County was
consulted and what are the anticipated consulted to provide detailed information about the
outcomes of the consultation or areas for health and mental health needs of Fort Collins
improved coordination ? residents . Specifically, the agency was able to
provide detailed data regarding the needs of Fort
Collins citizens for mental health and substance abuse
services . This information was used to create the
Non - homeless Special Needs section of the Needs
Assessment .
Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting.
The City of Fort Collins has made a concerted effort to allow all agencies who serve low and moderate
income residents to participate in Consolidated Planning efforts . All citizens of Fort Collins were invited
to participate in planning efforts, through a Citizen Questionnaire, public forums, a public hearing, and
by providing written comments on the draft plan . Agencies and citizen groups may have chosen not to
participate, but all were invited to do so .
Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan :
Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the
goals of each plan ?
Balance of State Local Lead is The City of Fort Collins and Homeward 2020 work closely
Continuum of Care Homeward 2020 together to address the needs of persons experiencing
homelessness in Fort Collins . Actions and goals included in
the Five Year Consolidated Plan reflect the goals and actions
of the Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness .
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Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the
goals of each plan ?
Social Sustainability Fort Collins Social Elements of the Five Year Consolidated Plan were developed
Strategic Plan Sustainability to align with the Social Sustainability Strategic Plan .
Department
City of Fort Collins Fort Collins Elements of the Five Year Consolidated Plan were developed
Economic Health Economic Health to align with the Economic Health Strategic Plan .
Strategic Plan Department
Table 3—Other local / regional / federal planning efforts
Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any
adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan
(91115 ( 1 ) ) .
The City of Fort Collins works closely with Larimer County, the State of Colorado Department of Local
Affairs and other state offices to meet the needs identified in the Consolidated Plan and to implement
programs and projects to meet our goals . Many agencies serve Fort Collins, other Larimer County
jurisdictions, and the unincorporated areas of the county. Programs such as the Larimer Home
Improvement Program ( LHIP ) are coordinated and funded County-wide to reduce duplication . Funding
for many projects and programs identified in the Consolidated Plan comes from the State of Colorado,
through resources such as the Emergency Solutions Grants ( ESG ), HOME program , and Colorado Housing
and Finance Authority' s ( CHFA) Low Income Housing Tax Credit ( LIHTC) program . The City of Fort Collins
will continue to coordinate with other local and state agencies during the 2015-2019 Five-Year
Consolidated Plan .
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PR- 15 Citizen Participation
1 . Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation
Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting .
Input from a broad range of citizens and citizen groups were collected during the development of the
Five-Year Consolidated Plan . The public was encouraged to participate through multiple modes,
including : an online and paper Community Questionnaire; a Community Open House; through submittal
of written comments regarding the draft Five-Year Plan ; and the City Council Public Hearing to adopt the
plan . The Social Sustainability Department notified the public about opportunities to participate in the
process on the City website, through publication in the local newspaper, through non - profit and service
providers, and through other means . Input from citizens was used to determine high priority needs and
five year goals to meet needs .
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Citizen Participation Outreach
Sort Or Mode of Out Target of Out Summary of Summary of Summary of co URL ( If
der reach reach response/atte comments re mments not applica
ndance ceived accepted ble)
and reasons
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1 Community Minorities The City of Fort Collins The highest identified None
Question- Office of Social need by questionnaire
naire Non - English Sustainability created a respondents was
Speaking - questionnaire to collect affordable housing . The
Specify other opinions about existing second highest need was
language : needs from all members identified as facilities for
Spanish of the community. The persons experiencing
electronic questionnaire homelessness and then
Persons with was widely marketed and services for persons
disabilities distributed by the City to experiencing
all residents of Fort homelessness . The lowest
Non - Collins . A total of 576 ranked priority was
targeted/broad households responded to Community Development
community the survey . See activities such as
Attachment A for a improving public parks
Residents of summary of survey and playgrounds, water
Public and results . and sewer line repair, and
Assisted Housing energy conservation .
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2 Interviews Persons with In November of 2014, key Comments related to None
disabilities informant interviews priority housing, persons
were held with service experiencing
Residents of providers; housing homelessness, special
Public and industry experts; involved needs and non - housing
Assisted Housing City department staff community development
members; the CDBG needs were gathered and
Service Commission ; the used to create the
Providers, Affordable Housing Consolidated Plan .
Housing Industry Board ; the Fort Collins
Experts, City Housing Authority staff;
Department homeless agencies; and
Staff, etc . others to gather input
and data to inform the
Needs Assessment,
Market Analysis, Strategic
Plan and Annual Action
Plan sections of the
Consolidated Plan .
3 Focus Persons with Two focus groups were held Housing Focus Group: New None
Groups disabilities
on January61h, 2015 . One development of rental and
affordable for sale housing is
group discussed needed . Preservation of existing
Residents of Underserved Needs and the housing is needed . Construction of
other discussed Housing . housing at income levels 0 - 80%
Public and Attendees of the Housing AMI, and above 80% AMI is needed .
Assisted Housing Underserved Needs Focus Group :
Focus Group represented Homeless prevention ( utility
nonprofit housing providers, assistance; rent assistance); deposit
the Fort Collins Housing assistance for first month 's rent and
Authority, the private sector utilities; rapid-rehousing; homeless
services; homeless youth; services
housing industry, and the for the elderly; housing for low-
Affordable Housing Board . income and special needs
The CDBG Commission, populations, including persons with
service providers to disabilities; translation for persons
with disabilities and seniors; better
minority and Spanish public transportation; mental health
speaking populations, and services, and more inclusive
the homeless discussed coordinated services for clients.
Underserved Needs .
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4 Individual City Council City Council members Housing and Community None
Development themes: The City
Interviews Members were interviewed to needs to plan for the possibility of
gather their input into redevelopment and preservation of
high priority needs, the several of the existing mobile home
parks. Much of the undeveloped
housing market, non- land that could provide more
housing community housing is presently lacking the
development needs, City necessary infrastructure. The City is
examining the pros and cons of
goals, policies, and allowing smaller houses on smaller
priorities, and future lots. The State of Colorado needs to
plans for the City. Since
provide a stronger overarching plan
and resources to address
the interviews were one- homelessness. Need to expand the
on-one informal supply of short term and permanent
housing for those transitioning out
discussions of housing of homelessness. Cooperation and
needs, there is no official coordination is needed among the
consensus from the City agencies serving homeless and low-
income households.
Council as a whole .
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5 Public Non - The Social Sustainability The highest rated actions were : None
Meeting targeted/broad Department held a Develop more Rapid Rehousing
Community Open House on options ( homeless) . Provide
community January 12 to, 2015 to inform tenant based rental assistance
the public about high for households on the Fort
Collins Housing Authority's wait
priority housing, special lists . Provide financing tools to
needs, homeless and non - construct new rental complexes
housing community targeted to the lowest incomes
development needs (0-60% AMI ) . Other highly rated
discovered during research priority actions included :
conducted for development Support service providers
of the Consolidated Plan . providing housing and services
Twenty attendees were ( homeless) . Provide financing
invited to rank Priority tools for construction of
accessible rentals with
Needs and Possible Actions supportive services . Provide
as High or Low. Attendees support for emergency
were also encouraged to assistance programs
provide comments related ( homelessness prevention ) .
to needs .
Table 4—Citizen Participation Outreach
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Needs Assessment
NAm05 Overview
Needs Assessment Overview
The City of Fort Collins gathered information to determine priority needs from many sources . The City
has undertaken demographic and housing market research using US Census, Multiple Listing Service
( MLS), rent survey, and other data sources . Two key studies were completed within the past year that
provide detailed analysis of affordable housing in Fort Collins and social sustainability gaps, including
gaps related to persons with disabilities; seniors; homeless persons; at risk youth ; persons in poverty;
victims of domestic violence; veterans; and gay, lesbian , bisexual and transgender
residents . Information from these reports has been used to assess needs and is included in various
sections of the Consolidated Plan . The City also conducted a series of Key Informant Interviews with City
leaders, industry specialists, City staff, nonprofit organizations involved with serving low- income and
special needs populations, and the housing development and lending community . A questionnaire was
made available to all Fort Collins residents, asking citizens to provide their insights into housing,
homeless, special needs and community development needs within the community. A community forum
was held, and attendees were asked to rank priority needs and action . All information has been
considered in the drafting of this plan , and in the prioritization of needs and actions to meet needs .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 22
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NA40 Housing Needs Assessment - 24 CFR 91 . 205 ( a , b, c )
Between the year 2000 and 2011, the population in Fort Collins rose 20%, while the number of
households rose 23 % . Median incomes rose 16% during this time period .
Summary of Housing Needs
Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year : 2011 % Change
Population 1181827 142, 332 20%
Households 451868 56, 429 23 %
Median Income $44,459 . 00 $ 51,446 . 00 16%
Table 5-Housing Needs Assessment Demographics
Data Source: 2000 Census ( Base Year), 2007-2011 ACS ( Most Recent Year)
According to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs ( DOLA), between 2010 and 2014, the population
in Fort Collins grew at an average annual rate of . 6%, and is forecast to continue growing at a rate of
1 . 0% per year between 2014 and 2019 . Between 2000 and 2014, the population of Fort Collins grew by
approximately 33 ,470 persons, and is expected to grow by another 14, 873 by 2019 .
Total Population : 2000-2019
Average Average Average
Annual Annual Annual
Area 2000 2010 Growth 2014 Growth 2019 Growth
Larimer County 251 ,494 299 , 630 1 .9% 3229437 0 . 8% 353 , 961 1 . 0%
Fort Collins 1189652 143 , 986 2 . 1 % 1529122 0 . 6% 166 , 995 1 . 0%
Source : 2000 and 2010 Census , Colorado State Demographers Office , CSI
Population Growth Over Time
400,000 —
300,000 —
299,630 322,437
200,000
100,000 2, 1986 22 1660995
118,652 '
0
2000 2010 2014 2019
tl-arimer County Fort Collins
Source : 2000 and 2010 Census , Colorado State Demographers Office , CSI
The following table shows the number of residents in Fort Collins by age range . While the number of
persons in each range is expected to grow, the range with the highest growth rate between 2010 and
2019 will be those aged 18-24 ( 20% ), while the range with the highest number of new persons will be
those aged 25-64 ( 10, 812 persons ) .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 23
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Population by Age, 2010-2019
2010 2013 2019 Projections
Age # % # % # %
0- 17 28 , 630 19 .9% 289752 19 . 3% 33, 399 20 .0%
18-24 30, 865 21 .4% 33 , 221 22 . 3% 37, 073 22 .2%
25-64 71 , 851 49 . 9% 73 , 594 49 .4% 82 , 663 49 . 5%
65 + 12 , 640 8 . 8% 13 , 259 8 .9% 13 , 861 8 . 3%
Total 143 , 986 1485826 1669995
Source : 20115 year average ACS; 2010 Census; State Demographers Office; CSI
Population Growth, 2013-2019
10,000
9,000
8,000
7,000
6,000
51000 4, 647
3,851
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000 602
0
Age 0- 17 Age 18-24 Age 25 - 64 Age 65 and over
Source : 2011 5-year average ACS; 2010 Census; State Demographers Office; CSI
As 2013 American Community Survey data shows below, almost 90% of all Fort Collins residents identify
their race as white, and ethnicity as non - Hispanic . The largest minority group in Fort Collins is persons of
Hispanic descent, at 10% of the total population . The percent of persons who are Hispanic in Fort
Collins is lower than in Larimer County ( 11 % ) and throughout Colorado ( 21 % ) .
Fort Collins Population by Race and Ethnicity, 2013
Total Distribution Hispanic/ % Hispanic/
Race Population by Race Latino Latino
White 1359911 89 .4% 99810 7 .2%
Black or African American 19743 1 . 1 % 135 7 .7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 927 0 . 6% 241 26 . 0%
Asian 45202 2 . 8% 57 1 .4%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific
Islander 183 0 . 1 % 62 33 .9%
Some other race 4 , 127 2 . 7% 4 , 127 100 . 0%
Two or more races 45963 3 . 3% 15229 24 .8%
Total population 1529056 100 .0% 15 ,661 10 . 3%
Source : US Census American Community Survey, 2013
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 24
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The fastest growing racial group in Fort Collins from 2000-2013 was whites . Fort Collins added over
15, 000 persons of Hispanic origin during this time period . While the percentage and numbers of
Hispanics, African American, Asian, and persons of two or more races have risen in Fort Collins since
2000, the racial and ethnic makeup of the City is still predominately white .
Fort Collins Population Growth by Race and Ethnicity, 2000-2013
Hispanic Origin 15, 661
Two or more races 1, 958
Some other race - 154
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 40
Asian ■ 1, 254
American Indian and Alaska Native 212
Black or African American 1 530
White 29, 564
Cf7 O Ln W W
O In O Cn O In
O O O O O O O O
O O O O O O O O
O
Source : US Census American Community Survey, 2013
The Social Sustainability Gaps Analysis studied economic diversity by race and ethnicity, and found that
in 2010, the median household income of non - Hispanic whites was the highest of any racial or ethnic
group in the City. Hispanic households had a median income that was only 69% of the non - Hispanic
white median income . In 2010, one third of Asian and Hispanic households earned less than $ 25, 000
per year.
Created using HUD' s Consolidated Planning CPD Maps program with US Census 2011 American
Community Survey data , the following map shows Hispanic persons are concentrated in census tracts in
northern Fort Collins . These census tracts are reflective of the Buckingham , Andersonville, and Alta
Vista neighborhoods that have historic roots for the Hispanic community .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 25
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Persons of Hispanic Origin by Census Tract, 2011
Map Legend
Persons of Hispanic Origin
<7. 12%
D 7. 12-23%
23-46.54%
46.54-76.83%
>76.83%
P
9
Source : HUD CPD Maps
The following table provides information about persons in poverty living in Fort Collins from 2000-2013 .
The number of persons in poverty has grown during this time period, from a total of 15, 835 in 2000 to
25,438 in 2013, according to the US Census Bureau American Community Survey. The poverty rate, or
percent of persons in poverty, has also grown from 14 . 0% of the total population to 17 . 6% . After rising
during 2000-2010, the poverty rate for children in Fort Collins has declined during 2010 to 2013 . The
number of seniors aged 65 and older who are living in poverty has risen from 508 in 2000 to 966 in
2010. This climb in senior poverty is due in most part to an increase in the number of persons in this age
range, as the poverty rate for seniors has risen only slightly.
In 2013 there were an estimated 913 single female parents in poverty, and the poverty rate for these
parents ( 30 . 7%) was almost twice that of the general population . The poverty rate for single female
parents is rising. Another group with a high poverty rate is Hispanic households . In 2013, the American
Community Survey estimated that 23 . 9% of all Hispanic households lived in poverty, while 17 . 7% of
whites lived in poverty .
Although employed persons are less likely to be in poverty than the entire population, in 2013, working
persons in Fort Collins had a poverty rate of 14. 0%, just 3 . 6% less than the rate for all persons,
illustrating that there are many working poor in Fort Collins .
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Poverty in Fort Collins, 2000-2013
2000 2010 2013
Persons in Poverty 159835 24 , 988 259438
Poverty Rate 14 .0% 18 .2% 17 . 6%
Children in Poverty 29216 31706 29019
Poverty Rate 8 . 9% 12 .9% 7 . 2%
Over 65 in Poverty 508 735 966
Poverty Rate 5 . 8% 5 .9% 6 . 1 %
Single Female Parents in Poverty 644 713 913
Poverty Rate 28 . 1 % 28 . 7% 30 . 7 0
Employed Persons in Poverty NA 109478 119059
Poverty Rate 13 .9% 14 .0%
Source : US Census Bureau , American Community Survey 2013
Total Persons in Poverty, Fort Collins 2000-2013
30000
24, 988 25,438
25000 —
20000
15, 835
15000
10000
5000
0 -111
2000 2010 2013
Source : US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 27
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Poverty Rates in Fort Collins Over Time by Population Group, 2000-2013
40.0% —
30.0% —
20.0% —
10.0% —
0 . 0%
2000 2010 2013
Overall Poverty Rate ( Children in Poverty
Over 65 in Poverty ==)#=wSingle Female Parents in Poverty
Source : US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2013
The number of households has grown as Fort Collins' population has grown . Households have grown at
a higher rate than the population , indicating that young Fort Collins residents may be moving out of
larger family households to form their own smaller household , and other new households are smaller
sized .
Total Households, 2000-2019
Av Annual Av Annual Av Annual
Area 2000 2010 Growth 2014 Growth 2019 Growth
Fort Collins 45 , 882 57 , 829 2 .6% 619827 1 . 7% 66 , 681 1 .6%
Larimer County 97 , 164 1209295 2 .4% 129 , 351 1 . 9% 140 , 389 1 . 7%
Sources : 2000 and 2010 US Census; Claritas Data
HUD provides the following table showing the estimated number of households by household type and
Area Median Income (AMI ) level in 2011 . The highest concentrations of any household type are in the
greater than 100% AMI income range . Senior households with at least one person age 75 or older have
the highest percentage of households at 0-30% AMI ( 17% ) . Households with one or more children aged
six and under have the highest percentage of households in the 30-50% AMI income range ( 18%) .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 28
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Number of Households Table
0-30% >30-50% >50-80% >80-100% >100%
HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI
Total Households * 9, 145 71300 9, 040 61125 24, 825
Small Family Households * # 11705 21030 21765 21510 131890
Large Family Households * # 255 405 430 405 21005
Household contains at least one
person 62-74 years of age 660 745 1, 115 750 3,470
Household contains at least one
person age 75 or older 655 769 895 500 11040
Households with one or more
children 6 years old or younger * 800 11115 11350 899 31430
* the highest income category for these family types is >80% HAMFI
# Small family = 2-4 persons, Large family = 5+ persons
Table 6-Total Households Table
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
The following table estimated the number of households in Fort Collins by tenure ( renter vs . owner) and
by percent of HUD median income in 2014 . HUD estimated a median income for communities, and this
table uses the median income in the Fort Collins- Loveland MSA. Half of renter households in Fort Collins
have incomes at 50% of the AMI or less, while 75% of owner households have incomes at 80% of the
AMI or above .
Households by Income Range and Tenure, 2014
Upper- Renter-occupied Owner-occupied
% of 2014 Area income Households Households Total Households
Median Income Limit Number Percent Number Percent Number Percent
0-30% AMI $22 , 050 89242 30 . 1 % 1 , 892 5. 5% 10, 020 16 .2%
30-50% AMI $369750 59467 20 .0% 21584 7 . 5% 79993 12 .9%
50-80% AMI $58 ,800 59823 21 . 3% 4 , 124 12 . 0% 9 ,905 16 .0%
80- 100% AMI $739500 39004 11 .0% 39708 10. 8% 69711 10 .9%
101 % and over >$73 , 500 49831 17 . 7% 22 , 152 64 . 3% 27, 199 44 .0%
All Households 279367 34 ,460 61 , 827
Source : US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2013, CSI
The following charts show the distribution of households by AMI level and tenure ( owner vs . renter ) .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 29
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Number of Households by AMI Level and Tenure, 2014
30, 000
25, 000
20, 000
15, 000 Owners
101000 Renters
5, 000EN
0-30% AMI 30-50% AMI 50-80% AMI 80-100% AMI 101% and over
Source : US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2013, CSI
100%
80%
60%
■ Owners
40% s• Renters
20%
0%
0-30% AMI 30-50% AMI 50-80% AMI 80- 100% AMI 101% and over
Source : US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2013, CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 30
OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
HUD provides the following tables which show households with Housing Problems by tenure and income
range . These tables are created using US Census Bureau 2007-2011 American Community Survey (ACS )
data . Housing problems are defined by HUD for the Consolidated Plan as :
1 . Housing unit lacks complete kitchen facilities
2 . Housing unit lacks complete plumbing facilities
3 . Overcrowding ( 1 . 01-1 . 5 persons per room )
4 . Severe Overcrowding (greater than 1 . 5 persons per room )
5 . Cost Burden ( households paying between 30% and 50% of their income for housing)
6 . Severe Cost Burden ( household pays 50% or more of their income for housing)
Housing Needs Summary Tables
In Fort Collins, HUD estimates there were 435 rental units and 14 owner occupied units without
complete plumbing or kitchen facilities in 2011 . Of these, most were rentals serving households at 0-
30% AMI . There were few severely overcrowded households in Fort Collins, though 255 renters and 125
owners were overcrowded in 2011 . By far the largest housing problem experienced by households at
100% of the AMI or less in Fort Collins was cost burden . Renter households were more likely to be
severely cost burdened and owners were more likely to be cost burdened . HUD estimates there were
over 5, 500 renter households at 0-30% AMI that were severely cost burdened . Over 4, 000 renters
earning 30-50% of the AMI were cost burdened or severely cost burdened . There were also a large
number of owners at 0-30% AMI experiencing cost burden, as well as owners at 80- 100% AMI .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 31
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1 . Housing Problems ( Households with one of the listed needs )
Renter Owner
0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total
AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI 50% 80% 100%
AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI
NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS
Substandard
Housing - Lacking
complete plumbing
or kitchen facilities 195 40 170 30 435 4 0 0 10 14
Severely
Overcrowded -
With > 1 . 51 people
per room (and
complete kitchen
and plumbing) 10 0 25 0 35 0 0 0 0 0
Overcrowded -
With 1 .01- 1 . 5
people per room
(and none of the
above problems) 135 100 20 0 255 20 30 15 60 125
Housing cost
burden greater
than 50% of
income ( and none
of the above
problems) 51580 11980 395 10 71965 11225 880 645 185 21935
Housing cost
burden greater
than 30% of
income ( and none
of the above
problems) 425 2, 300 2, 070 750 5, 545 250 675 11450 11385 31760
Zero/negative
Income (and none
of the above
problems) 400 0 0 0 400 80 0 0 0 80
Table 7—Housing Problems Table
Data 2007-2011 CHAS
Source :
The next HUD- provided table shows the number of households with one of the four housing problems,
or none of the four housing problems, by tenure and AMI income range in 2011 . There are almost three
times more renters with housing problems than owners . Housing problems are experienced by many
more extremely low ( 0-30% AMI ) and low- income ( 31-50% AMI ) renters and owner than by moderate
income households or those with incomes above 80% AMI .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 32
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2 . Housing Problems 2 ( Households with one or more Severe Housing Problems : Lacks kitchen
or complete plumbing, severe overcrowding, severe cost burden )
Renter Owner
0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total
AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI 50% 80% 100%
AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI
NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS
Having 1 or more
of four housing
problems 51925 21115 610 35 81685 11250 910 660 255 31075
Having none of
four housing
problems 11070 21790 41615 21655 111130 420 11480 31155 31175 81230
Household has
negative income,
but none of the
other housing
problems 400 0 0 0 400 80 0 0 0 80
Table 8—Housing Problems 2
Data 2007-2011 CHAS
Source:
HUD data shows that "other" households, those that do not fit into the categories of "small related "
(two to four related persons), " large related" (five or more related persons ), or elderly, have the highest
number of cost burdened households in Fort Collins . Many of these "other" renters may be Colorado
State University students . According to the Housing Affordability Policy Study conducted for the City in
2014, approximately 5, 700 to 6, 900 households earning $ 25, 000 or less are students, and are assumed
to be renters . Most would fall into the "Other" category. The highest number of cost burdened
households is renter households at 0-30% AMI .
3 . Cost Burden > 30%
Renter Owner
0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total 0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total
AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI
NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS
Small Related 11140 11260 580 21980 355 445 855 11655
Large Related 190 99 80 369 64 230 105 399
Elderly 469 395 330 11194 475 355 450 11280
Other 41470 21600 11600 81670 610 555 685 11850
Total need by 6, 269 4, 354 21590 13, 213 11504 1585 21095 51184
income
Table 9—Cost Burden > 30%
Data 2007-2011 CHAS
Source:
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 33
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The highest number of severely cost- burdened households are also renters with incomes at 0-30% AMI .
Most are "other" households, and many are small related and elderly households as well . The highest
number of severely cost- burdened owner households are those at 0-30% AMI , and "other" households .
Cost Burdened Households
7,000 —
6,000 —
5,000 —
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50-80% AMI 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50-80% AMI
Renter Owner
■ Small Related o Large Related . Elderly 8 Other
Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
4 . Cost Burden > 50%
Renter Owner
0-30% >30-50% >50- Total 0-30% >30- >50- Total
AMI AMI 80% AMI 50% 80%
AMI AMI AMI
NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS
Small Related 1, 045 530 40 11615 320 350 255 925
Large Related 180 4 0 184 60 75 35 170
Elderly 390 245 195 830 310 165 135 610
Other 41210 11230 205 51645 555 285 220 11060
Total need by 51825 21009 440 81274 11245 875 645 21765
income
Table 10—Cost Burden > 50%
Data 2007-2011 CHAS
Source:
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 34
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Severely Cost Burdened Households
6,000
5,000
4,000
3,000 -
2,000
1,000
0
0-30% AMI >30-505% AMI >50-80% AMI 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50-80% AMI
Renter Owner
■ Small Related or Large Related Elderly x Other
Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
Overcrowding is also most prevalent in renter households with lower incomes . More often than for
multiple unrelated person households — or households made up of non -family members — overcrowding
occurs in single family households ( one family living alone ) and for those with only one family living
within the housing unit. Overcrowding often occurs when a low- income household must rent or own a
home smaller than they need because the price is lower than larger units . The largest number of
overcrowded households are single family renter households at 0-30% AMI .
5 . Crowding ( more than one person per room )
Renter Owner
0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total 0-30% >30- >50- >80- Total
AMI 50% 80% 100% AMI 50% 80% 100%
AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI
NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS
Single family
households 145 65 45 0 255 25 30 0 50 105
Multiple, unrelated
family households 0 35 0 0 35 0 0 15 10 25
Other, non -family
households 0 0 10 0 10 0 0 0 0 0
Total need by 145 100 55 0 300 25 30 15 60 130
income
Table 11—Crowding Information — 1/2
Data 2007-2011 CHAS
Source:
HUD requires grantees to estimate the number of households with children living in the household by
tenure and AMI income range . This data is not readily available nor provided by HUD . CSI has estimated
the number of households with children by tenure and AMI level, using the total number of HUD-
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 35
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estimated households with children ( 15, 964), and distributing these households into tenure and income
ranges, as all single family households fall within these ranges . This methodology estimates there are
11, 308 renter households with children present, and 4, 656 owner households with children present with
incomes at or below 80% AMI .
Renter Owner
0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total 0-30% >30-50% >50-80% Total
AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI
Households with
Children
Present 61430 21882 11996 11 , 308 11109 11330 0 45656
Table 12—Crowding Information — 2/2
Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance .
While it is difficult to estimate the total number of single person households in need of housing
assistance in Fort Collins because many students are included in census and HUD tabulations, not all of
the "other" households that have cost burden and severe cost burden are students . There are also
many seniors and individuals experiencing housing cost burden that comprise single person households .
According to the HUD data provided above, the biggest need for housing assistance among any
household type, including individuals, is affordably priced rentals and units for sale .
Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or
victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.
Households with disabled household members will be discussed in further detail in NA-40, Non-
Homeless Special Needs Assessment . CHAS data analyzed for preparation of the Fort Collins
Consolidated Plan provides the estimated number of households at or below 80% AMI with household
members with various disabilities . This data source does not break down which households are families,
which are individuals, and which are seniors . Households could have more than one disability within
their household . CHAS data ( please see NA-40 for more detail ), concludes the following in 2011 :
• 4, 040 households with a hearing or visually impaired household member
• 3, 580 households with a member who has an ambulatory limitation
• 3, 185 households with a member who has a cognitive limitation
• 3,000 households with a member who has a self-care or independent living limitation
The most common assistance needed for households with a disabled household member are housing
accessibility modifications, access to public transportation , and rent restrictions to reduce household
housing costs .
Using national data sources, the Social Sustainability Gaps Analysis conducted for the City of Fort Collins
in 2014 estimated that approximately 20, 000 women and 16, 800 men in Fort Collins have at some point
in their lives been victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking . The January
2014 Point-in -Time ( PIT) count in Fort Collins found 102 survivors of domestic violence, including those
counted at the domestic violence shelter. This statistic comprises over 35% of all respondents . These
victims need safe shelter, counseling and other services, and often also need job training, housing
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 36
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placement and an affordable rental unit when ready to leave a shelter. Domestic Violence questions
were not asked for the 2015 PIT count .
What are the most common housing problems?
The most common housing problems in Fort Collins, by far, are Cost Burden and Severe Cost Burden .
Housing costs in Fort Collins and throughout Colorado have been rising dramatically. The supply of
available units has been on the decline and households with moderate, low, and extremely low incomes
are less able to pay for escalating housing costs than those with higher incomes . Please see the Housing
Markets section for more information on the cost of housing in Fort Collins .
Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems?
Families with children , small families, and many "other" households are most affected by cost burden .
Renters have a much higher incidence of cost burden than owner households .
Describe the characteristics and needs of low-income individuals and families with children
( especially extremely low-income ) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of
either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered 91 . 205 ( c)/91 . 305 (c) ) . Also discuss the
needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re- housing
assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance .
Households with severe cost burden and those with more than one family living in a unit are most in
danger of becoming unsheltered and homeless . This is especially true for extremely low- income
households . In 2011, there were a total of 5, 825 renter households at 0-30% AMI and 2, 009 renter
households at 31-50% AMI with extreme cost burden in Fort Collins . While some of the estimated
5, 700 to 6, 900 low- income students are included in these numbers, not all students respond to the
census where they reside for school, and not all are low- income . Many severely cost- burdened
households are low and very low- income families, elderly, and individuals . Fort Collins has a very low
vacancy rate, and most price restricted rental properties have waiting lists, as does the Fort Collins
Housing Authority ( FCHA) Section 8 voucher program . Households who fall behind in rent payments will
find it difficult to find a less costly rental unit within Fort Collins .
Homeless providers and housing providers interviewed during the preparation of the Consolidated Plan
indicated the biggest hurdle for their clients is finding an affordable rental when they are ready to leave
a shelter or homeless program . This is also true for victims of domestic violence . Households will
struggle to avoid the homeless cycle without housing that costs 30% or less of their income .
Formerly homeless families and individuals nearing the termination of rapid re- housing assistance need
extended case management or supportive services to ensure once financial assistance is no longer
needed that they will have the support, resources, and skills required to retain their housing
permanently.
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If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at-risk population ( s), it should also include a
description of the operational definition of the at- risk group and the methodology used to
generate the estimates .
Fort Collins does not provide estimates of any specific at- risk populations .
Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an
increased risk of homelessness.
Housing cost and housing availability are the two housing characteristics most linked to housing
instability in Fort Collins . The Fort Collins rental housing market has become extremely tight over the
past few years, and the rise in rent rates and decline in vacancies are causing many households to be
priced out of the rental market, experience cost burdens of 30-50% or more, and are forcing some
households to double up . Homelessness interventions providers report a rise in the number of
households requesting emergency rental assistance . The Housing Authority and other housing providers
have long waiting lists of renter households trying to find and secure affordable rental units or rental
assistance .
Discussion
Please refer to the MA- 15 Cost of Housing section of the Consolidated Plan to read more about housing
costs, and the gap in prices and unit availability for households in Fort Collins .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 38
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NA45 Disproportionately Greater Need : Housing Problems — 91 . 205 ( b ) ( 2 )
Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to
the needs of that category of need as a whole .
Introduction
A disproportionately greater need exists when the members of racial or ethnic groups at an income level
experience housing problems at a greater rate ( 10% or more ) than the income level as a whole . The
following data has been provided by HUD to conduct an analysis of disproportionate needs in Fort
Collins .
The four housing problems * identified by HUD and included in this analysis are :
1 . Lacks complete kitchen facilities
2 . Lacks complete plumbing facilities
3 . More than one person per room
4 . Cost burden greater than 30%
No one racial or ethnic group has a higher concentration of housing problems in Fort Collins at 0-30% of
the AMI , according to HUD provided data .
0-30% of Area Median Income
Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 8, 950 860 420
White 71520 775 315
Black / African American 70 0 0
Asian 240 0 60
American Indian , Alaska Native 90 0 0
Pacific Islander 20 0 0
Hispanic 830 75 25
Table 13-Disproportionally Greater Need 0-30% AMI
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
No one racial or ethnic group has a higher concentration of housing problems in Fort Collins at 30-50%
of the AMI .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 39
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30- 50% of Area Median Income
Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 5, 790 1, 490 0
White 41775 11295 0
Black / African American 15 0 0
Asian 165 55 0
American Indian , Alaska Native 0 0 0
Pacific Islander 0 0 0
Hispanic 720 135 0
Table 14-Disproportionally Greater Need 30-50% AMI
Data Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
The same is true for households at 50-80% of the AMI , and households at 80- 100% AMI .
50-80% of Area Median Income
Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 41765 4, 635 0
White 4, 220 3, 760 0
Black / African American 30 25 0
Asian 60 150 0
American Indian , Alaska Native 4 30 0
Pacific Islander 0 0 0
Hispanic 405 590 0
Table 15-Disproportionally Greater Need 50-80% AMI
Data Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
80- 100% of Area Median Income
Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/ negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 11320 31755 0
White 1, 200 3345 0
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OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Black / African American 0 65 0
Asian 0 29 0
American Indian , Alaska Native 0 30 0
Pacific Islander 0 0 0
Hispanic 120 220 0
Table 16-Disproportionally Greater Need 80-100% AMI
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
Discussion
HUD- provided data from 2011 shows no racial or ethnic group has a higher incidence of housing
problems than any other in Fort Collins .
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NAm20 Disproportionately Greater Need : Severe Housing Problems — 91 . 205
( b ) ( 2 )
Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to
the needs of that category of need as a whole .
Introduction
While no one racial or ethnic group had a disproportionate housing problem, HUD data does find that
while 82% of all households earning 0-30% AMI have one of the four severe housing problems,
American Indian, Alaska Native and Pacific Islander households have 100% severe housing problems .
This is a disproportionately greater housing need . While there are few of these households in Fort
Collins, HUD data shows they all have one of the four housing problems .
0-30% of Area Median Income
Severe Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 8, 010 1, 800 420
White 61715 11580 315
Black / African American 55 15 0
Asian 210 30 60
American Indian , Alaska Native 90 0 0
Pacific Islander 20 0 0
Hispanic 740 165 25
Table 17—Severe Housing Problems 0-30% AMI
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
At no other income ranges do any racial or ethnic groups have disproportionate severe housing
problems .
30-50% of Area Median Income
Severe Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 21795 41485 0
White 21365 31705 0
Black / African American 0 15 0
Asian 55 165 0
American Indian , Alaska Native 0 0 0
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Severe Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Pacific Islander 0 0 0
Hispanic 275 585 0
Table 18—Severe Housing Problems 30-50% AMI
Data Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
50-80% of Area Median Income
Severe Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 959 81430 0
White 859 71115 0
Black / African American 0 55 0
Asian 0 210 0
American Indian , Alaska Native 0 34 0
Pacific Islander 0 0 0
Hispanic 100 895 0
Table 19—Severe Housing Problems 50-80% AMI
Data Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
80- 100% of Area Median Income
Severe Housing Problems * Has one or more of Has none of the Household has
four housing four housing no/negative
problems problems income, but none
of the other
housing problems
Jurisdiction as a whole 215 4, 855 0
White 180 41360 0
Black / African American 0 65 0
Asian 0 29 0
American Indian , Alaska Native 0 30 0
Pacific Islander 0 0 0
Hispanic 35 305 0
Table 20—Severe Housing Problems 80- 100% AMI
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
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Discussion
In Fort Collins, there are households with many HUD-defined housing problems . However, HUD data
indicates that disproportionate need between various racial and ethnic groups is not an issue . While
American Indian , Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander households at 0-30% AMI have greater needs,
according to HUD, there are few households in this income range and in the identified racial groups in
Fort Collins .
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NA-25 Disproportionately Greater Need : Housing Cost Burdens — 91 . 205 ( b ) ( 2 )
Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to
the needs of that category of need as a whole .
Introduction
No one racial or ethnic group has a higher concentration of housing cost burden in Fort Collins,
according to HUD data .
Housing Cost Burden
Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative
income ( not
computed )
Jurisdiction as a whole 301530 101390 111738 440
White 27, 225 81895 101050 325
Black / African American 255 95 55 0
Asian 945 230 250 70
American Indian , Alaska
Native 85 4 90 0
Pacific Islander 10 0 20 0
Hispanic 11710 11070 11015 25
Table 21—Greater Need : Housing Cost Burdens AMI
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
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NAm30 Disproportionately Greater Need : Discussion — 91 . 205 ( b ) ( 2 )
Are there any Income categories in which a racial or ethnic group has disproportionately
greater need than the needs of that income category as a whole ?
No, disproportionately greater housing need does not appear to be an issue in Fort Collins .
If they have needs not identified above, what are those needs?
Are any of those racial or ethnic groups located in specific areas or neighborhoods in your
community?
There are three neighborhoods in Fort Collins with higher percentages of Hispanic households, but HUD
data does not suggest these households have any disproportionately greater housing needs .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 46
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NA=35 Public Housing — 91 . 205 ( b )
Introduction
The Fort Collins Housing Authority ( FCHA) is a highly rated, progressive housing provider that provides many housing opportunities to residents
of Fort Collins . The agency serves nearly 5, 000 persons per year. The agency owns and operates housing units; provides Housing Choice
Vouchers; Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH ) Vouchers; Family Unification Program ( FUP ) Vouchers and disabled special purpose
housing vouchers; and, through a non - profit subsidiary, develops new housing units throughout the City of Fort Collins . FCHA is authorized for a
total of 1159 vouchers but does not currently receive enough funding to utilize all of them . The table below shows HUD- provided PIH
Information Center ( PIC) data , which reports the number of public housing units owned by the FCHA ( 154), the total number of housing vouchers
that FHCAcurrently has leased, and breaks these vouchers down into programs . Project based rental assistance vouchers are rental subsidies
which enable residents of specific properties to pay only 30% of their income for rent and utilities for a unit at that property. FCHA administers
136 project based vouchers .
Totals in Use
Program Type
Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers
Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher
based based Veterans Family Disabled
Affairs Unification
Supportive Program
Housing
# of units vouchers in use 0 2-7 154 11036 136 534 92 37 237
Table 22-Public Housing by Program Type
* includes Non-Elderly Disabled and Mainstream Five-Year
Data Source: PIC ( PIH Information Center) Some info from PIC entered into IDIS contains inaccuracies. Above figures are also from the Fort Collins Housing Authority.
Characteristics of Residents
HUD- provided PIC data also provides an overview of client demographic characteristics . CSI has supplemented this data with additional data
provided by the FCHA. The tables below show that 402 disabled families, as well as 160 elderly program participants age 62 and over, are
currently served by the FCHA .
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Program Type
Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers
Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher
based based Veterans Family
Affairs Unification
Supportive Program
Housing
Average annual income 0 51340 101691 111579 101900 111812 101032 41531
Average length of stay 0 0 6 5 1 7 0 0
Average household size 0 1 2 2 2 2 1 2
# Homeless at admission 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0
# of elderly program participants
( >62 ) 0 0 13 147 27 106 8 0
# of families with a disability 0 14 57 331 28 184 24 0
# of families requesting accessibility
features 0 22 154 * 878 136 567 58 4
# of HIV/AIDS program participants 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
# of DV victims 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Table 23—Characteristics of Public Housing Residents by Program Type
Data Source: PIC ( PIH Information Center) * This table contains information loaded from PIC into IDIS, and has some inaccuracies. Fort Collins Housing Authority states that there are 154
households in Public Housing. Not all of them have requested accessibility. For the most up-to-date, accurate assessment, inquiries should be directed to the Fort Collins
Housing Authority.
Forty-five percent (45%) of public housing residents and 34% of voucher holders are non -elderly, non-disabled households with children,
according to PIC data provided by the FCHA . Another 25% of public housing residents and 29% of voucher holders are non -elderly households
with children with a disabled household member. Over 50% of public housing residents and 38% of voucher holders are female headed
households with children .
Distribution of Tenants by Family Type
Public Housing Vouchers
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Elderly, No Children , Non-Disabled 1 % 8%
Elderly, with Children , Non-Disabled 1 % 1 %
Non-Elderly, No Children , Non-Disabled 8% 6%
Non-Elderly, with Children , Non-Disabled 45% 34%
Elderly, No Children, Disabled 9% 13%
Elderly, with Children , Disabled 1 % 1 %
Non-Elderly, No Children , Disabled 25% 29%
Non-Elderly, with Children , Disabled 10% 9%
Female Headed Household with Children 53% 38%
Source : FCHA Provided PIC Data
Forty-five percent ( 45 % ) of public housing residents are children aged 17 and younger, and 42 % of voucher holder household members are
children . Just 6% of public housing residents and 11 % of voucher holder household members are seniors age 61 and older .
Age of Tenants
Public Housing Vouchers
0 - 5 16% 11 %
6 - 17 29% 31 %
18 - 50 39% 34%
51 - 61 10% 13%
62 - 82 6% 10%
83+ 0% 1 %
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According to the HUD- provided PIC data below, most FCHA residents are white .
Race of Residents
Program Type
Race Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers
Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher
based based Veterans Family Disabled
Affairs Unification
Supportive Program
Housing
White 0 20 142 806 124 523 52 4 79
Black/African American 0 0 5 33 6 18 5 0 2
Asian 0 1 0 6 1 4 0 0 1
American Indian/Alaska
Native 0 1 3 33 5 22 1 0 4
Pacific Islander 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
* includes Non- Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition
Table 24—Race of Public Housing Residents by Program Type
Data Source : PIC ( PIH Information Center)
While the majority of households utilizing assistance from the FCHA are white, the percentage of Hispanic or Latino households utilizing
assistance from the FCHA is higher than the percentage of Hispanic or Latino household in the general population . Although just 10% of the
general population in Fort Collins is Hispanic/ Latino, 41 % of public housing and 25 % of voucher holders are Hispanic or Latino . Poverty data for
Fort Collins shows that Hispanic/ Latino households had a 6 . 2 % higher incidence of poverty than non - Hispanic or Latino households in 2013 .
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Ethnicity of Residents
Program Type
Ethnicity Certificate Mod- Public Vouchers
Rehab Housing Total Project - Tenant - Special Purpose Voucher
based based Veterans Family Disabled
Affairs Unification
Supportive Program
Housing
Hispanic 0 7 61 216 31 160 6 1 12
Not Hispanic 0 15 89 662 105 407 52 3 74
* includes Non- Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition
Table 25—Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents by Program Type
Data Source : PIC ( PIH Information Center)
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Eighty-four percent ( 84%) of public housing residents and 82% of voucher holder households have
incomes at 0-30% of the AMI . The average annual income for clients in all program types is below the
30% AMI income limit . Almost 50% of public housing residents and 42% of voucher holders have
incomes at or below $ 10, 000 per year.
Tenant Incomes
Public Housing Vouchers
0-30% AMI 84 .0% 82 .0%
31 -50% AMI 14 .0% 17 .0%
51 -80% AMI 3 .0% 1 .0%
81 % and above 0 .0% 0 .0%
$0 8% 6%
$ 1 -$5, 000 18% 12%
$55001 -$ 105000 29% 32%
$ 105001 -$ 159000 21 % 23%
$ 153001 -$209000 10% 12%
$205001 -$25 , 000 6% 8%
Above $25 , 000 8% 7%
Source : FCHA Provided PIC Data
Thirty-six percent ( 36%) of FCHA public housing tenant households have income from wages . Another
41% rely upon Social Security Insurance ( SSI ), Social Security (SS ) or pension income, 19% are on
Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF ), and 16% have no income . A higher percentage of
voucher holders have SSI , SS or pension income, or no income at all .
Tenant Sources of Income
Public Housing Vouchers
With any wages 36% 27%
With any TAN 19% 12%
With any SSI/SS/Pension 41 % 59%
With other income 16% 20%
No income 0% 0%
Source : FCHA Provided PIC Data
Once Fort Collins residents move into public housing or secure a Section 8 or other housing voucher,
they tend to stay. The majority of residents have lived in their property or used their voucher for over
two years . Affordable housing options are hard to find in Fort Collins, and assistance that allows a
household , especially those at 0-30% AMI as most FCHA clients are, is difficult to secure .
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Tenant Length of Stay
Public Housing Vouchers
Less than 1 Year 8% 13%
1 -2 Years 8% 9%
2-5 Years 24% 29%
5- 10 Years 34% 22%
10-20 Years 19% 25%
Over 20 Years 8% 2%
Source : FCHA Provided PIC Data
The FCHA has a waiting list of 772 households for housing vouchers, and 913 households for public
housing units . There may be duplication between these two lists . The following tables provide
information about households on the waiting list, and was provided by the FCHA. The wait to access
housing choice vouchers or public housing units varies depending upon the size of household waiting for
assistance, and ranges from 134 days for 10- person households waiting for a voucher, to 1 , 186 days for
an eight- person household waiting to access a public housing unit . Most households on the waiting list
have between one and four persons, and waits range from 289 days to 645 days, or almost two years .
Waiting List Breakdown
Housing Corp Project Based
Vouchers Public Housing Units
Family Size # on Wait List Avg Days on List # on Wait List Avg Days on List
1 401 644 443 645
2 186 497 207 565
3 102 442 141 568
4 51 289 82 628
5 19 457 28 788
6 8 459 9 482
7 1 313 1 313
8 3 234 2 11186
9 0 0 0 0
10 1 134 0 0
Total 772 913
Source : FCHA
Two thirds of households on the waiting list for assistance through the FCHA are female headed . Female
headed households with children are much more likely to live in poverty than households headed by
males or with two adults in the household .
Waiting List Head of Household
Project Based Vouchers Public Housing Units
Number Percent Number Percent
Female 502 65.0% 611 66.9%
Male 270 35.0% 302 33. 1 %
Source : FCHA
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Most households on the waiting list for housing assistance are white . Approximately 25 % of households
on the waiting list are Hispanic or Latino, similar to the percentage of households currently being served .
Race of Households on the Waiting List
Project Based Vouchers Public Housing Units
Number Percent Number Percent
American Indian 19 2 . 5% 21 2 . 3%
Asian 4 0 . 5% 5 0 . 5%
Black 27 3 . 5% 32 3 . 5%
Native Hawaiian 0 0 . 0% 1 0 . 1 %
White 661 85 . 6% 776 85. 0%
Multiple 11 1 .4% 14 1 . 5%
Unknown 50 6 . 5% 64 7 . 0%
Source : FCHA
Ethnicity of Households on the Waiting List
Project Based Vouchers Public Housing Units
Number Percent Number Percent
Hispanic 187 24 . 2% 233 25. 5%
Non Hispanic 555 71 .9% 643 70 .4%
Unknown 30 3 .9% 37 4 . 1 %
Source : FCHA
The FCHA Housing Choice Voucher waiting list is currently closed . The Housing Authority does not use
any preferences on the waiting list . It is a lottery based selection system . For project based vouchers,
the Housing Authority gives preference to : households in a federally declared disaster area ; households
displaced by government action ; those who are under- or over- housed in public housing units; residents
of a Single Room Occupancy ( SRO ) resident for one year; and youth in the Family Unification Program .
Waiting lists at specific Housing Authority owned properties are open , and each property has a
preference depending upon the household type served at the property and if it targets specific
populations such as homeless households .
Section 504 Needs Assessment : Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants
on the waiting list for accessible units :
The Fort Collins Housing Authority does a needs assessment as new projects come on board . . There are
many households being served by the FCHA who need accessible units, and persons on the waiting list
for housing units in need of accessible units . Housing providers interviewed during the development of
the Consolidated Plan indicate that persons with the need for an accessible rental unit, especially those
who need efficiency or one bedroom units, have increasingly had a hard time finding an affordable,
accessible place to live . Many persons with disabilities need housing units located near public
transportation , services, and shopping, an added challenge when searching for a unit .
Most immediate needs of residents of Public Housing and Housing Choice voucher holders
The shortage of affordable rental units, and units priced at the Fair Market Rent ( FMR ) or below is the
most immediate need of housing choice voucher holders . Households are having an especially hard
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 54
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time finding one bedroom units that fall below the FMR payment standard . This need hits those with
VASH and disability vouchers, who often need a one bedroom rental . Housing Authority staff note that
some persons with vouchers have to turn them in because they cannot find a qualified rental unit, even
after receiving up to 120 days to find a place to live .
Another issue that hits very low-income households, and those served by the Housing Authority, hard, is
a lack of reliable public transportation . The addition of the City' s MAX rapid transit bus service and
extended operating hours has helped low-income FCHA clients, but there are still transportation service
gaps that hurt them . FCHA staff report that some voucher holders have to walk one- half mile or more
to bus stops and it can take hours to move around town . Many need a vehicle to get to work, daycare,
and to shopping, which is an added cost burden on residents .
How do these needs compare to the housing needs of the population at large ?
These needs are experienced by other extremely low and low-income households in Fort Collins . They
are not as impactful on higher income households, and those who can afford prevailing rents and
transportation costs . Persons with disabilities and fixed incomes, such as seniors, are impacted more
than other households by rising costs, low inventory, and lack of access to public transportation .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 55
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NA40 Homeless Needs Assessment — 91 . 205 ( c )
Introduction
Homelessness intervention providers serving Fort Collins were interviewed to prepare an analysis of homeless needs within the City . They
recognize that Fort Collins is a fast growing and desirable place to live . Over time, the cost of housing in every price range has increased
substantially. Property owners and landlords often have multiple applicants and even bidding wars for few available rental units . This increased
competition creates additional challenges for renters with fewer resources and puts them at a greater risk of homelessness . In many cases,
shelter providers find nearly impossible conditions for moving people out of shelter and into permanent housing . The following table was
completed using January 2014 Point- in -Time ( PIT) data . The PIT count does not collect enough detail to complete the entire table .
Estimate the # of persons Estimate the # Estimate the # Estimate the # Estimate the # of
experiencing experiencing becoming exiting days persons
homelessness on a given homelessness homeless each homelessness experiencing
night each year year each year homelessness
Sheltered Unsheltered NA NA NA NA
Persons in households with
53 9 NA NA NA NA
adult ( s ) and children
Persons in households with only
0 5
children NA NA NA NA
Persons in households with only
138 45 NA NA NA NA
adults
Chronically homeless Individuals 38 9 NA NA NA NA
Chronically homeless families 1 2 NA NA NA NA
Veterans 15 0 NA NA NA NA
Unaccompanied Child 0 0 NA NA NA NA
Person with HIV 1 0 NA NA NA NA
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 56
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If data is not available for the categories " number of persons becoming and exiting homelessness each
year, " and " number of days that persons experience homelessness, " describe these categories for
each homeless population type ( including chronically homeless individuals and families, families with
children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth ) :
During the summer of 2014, an updated Point- In -Time ( PIT) count of homeless persons was conducted
at multiple locations in the City to better assess seasonal fluctuations in rates of homelessness . The City
of Fort Collins, its service providers and data collectors do not estimate the total number of households
and individuals experiencing, becoming or exiting homelessness each year. There is related data
collected in conjunction with the PIT. The VI -SPDAT (Vulnerability SPDAT (Vulnerability Index-Service
Prioritization Decision Assessment Tool ) was administered in conjunction with the January 2014 PIT.
Based on those findings, the mean length of homelessness was 1262 days, and the median was 545
days . The Fort Collins PIT estimated that in the summer of 2014, there were 438 homeless persons
throughout the City. The survey found there were 35 homeless households with children under age 18,
and 344 homeless individuals on their own at the time of the count . Fort Collins has a substantive
network in place working to alleviate the ongoing challenges faced by persons experiencing
homelessness . The network includes multiple human services providers, the faith community, the
business community, citizens and volunteers and the City' s Office of Social Sustainability. Fort Collins
providers have responded to these challenges by participating in technical assistance trainings designed
to help communities increase supportive housing by creating a facility that houses multiple providers at
one site . Redtail Ponds, Fort Collins' first permanent supportive housing project, is a practical
outworking of this approach . This strategy increases access to services for individuals and families
experiencing homelessness . Homeward 2020, a consortium of community partners, has also developed
a Ten Year Plan to Make Homelessness Rare, Short- Lived , and Non - Recurring.
The Fort Collins Ten Year Plan to Make Homelessness Rare, Short- Lived, and Non - Recurring, contains
multiple strategies . Its diverse committee members are working to implement long term solutions by
addressing the issue from many angles . Still, shelter providers report "almost impossible" conditions to
move people out of shelter and into housing they can afford .
In January 2014, 35 % of all the persons experiencing homelessness counted in Fort Collins reported they
were homeless due to circumstances surrounding domestic violence . Five percent ( 56 ) of persons
counted were veterans, and 12 % were severely mentally ill . People with chronic substance use
disorders comprised 12 % of homeless persons counted .
Fort Collins PIT January 2014 Additional data
Total Percent of
Homeless Subpopulations Number Adults
Chronically Homeless Individuals 47 20%
Chronically Homeless Families 3 1 %
Veterans 15 6%
Female Veterans 0 0%
Severely Mentally III 36 15%
Chronic Substance Abuse 34 14%
Persons with HIV/AIDS 1 0%
Victims of Domestic Violence 102 43%
Source : January 2014 Point-in -Time Count, Homeward 2020
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The following chart provides the total number of persons and households counted, and the ages of
persons counted . While 75 % of persons counted were adults over 24, 18% were under the age of 18,
and another 7% were youth between the ages of 18 and 24 .
Fort Collins PIT January 2014 Additional Data
Number Percent
Total Households 217
Total number of persons 289
Total number of persons under 18 52 18%
Total number between 18 & 24 21 7%
Total number of persons over 24 216 75%
Source : January 2014 Point-in -Time Count, Homeward 2020
Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance for families with
children and the families of veterans .
Thirty-six veterans were counted as homeless on the night of the 2014 summer PIT survey . There were
35 homeless families with 53 children under the age of 18 counted . Five of these households reported
having stayed in unsheltered areas . There were 156 survivors of domestic violence ( over 40% of those
responding to the question or reporting staying at the domestic violence shelter) . Although the Fort
Collins Housing Authority has an allocation of VA Supportive Housing vouchers (VASH ), many providers
report increasing difficulty in finding rental property owners and managers willing to accept such
assistance .
Families with Children
The following chart shows a slight decline in students experiencing homelessness enrolled in the Poudre
School District from the 2013/14 school year to the 2014/ 15 school year. The data continues to reflect a
high number of school -aged children living in overcrowded , doubled up and usually temporary housing
situations . Forty-two children enrolled this year were staying in a motel and 39 enrolled children were
living in a vehicle with their families . The highest percentages of homeless children are elementary
school aged .
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Homeless Children in the School System
2014 - 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2010 - Change
2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010/11 -
2014/15
Doubled Up 632 918 772 866 932 -32 . 2%
Motel 42 80 57 49 29 44 . 8%
Mission/Shelter/Foster Care 33 103 76 29 29 13 . 8%
Safehouse 13 19 32 26 19 -31 . 6%
Car Camp 39 22 17 14 12 225. 0%
Unaccompanied Youth 86 194 119 117 62 38 . 7%
Accompanied Youth 673 948 835 867 959 -29 . 8%
Elementary School 354 542 439 463 412 - 14 . 1 %
Middle School 154 188 164 143 122 26 . 2%
High School 176 318 259 274 254 -30 . 7%
Early Childhood Education 75 94 92 104 233 -67 . 8%
Source : Poudre School District
Describe the Nature and Extent of Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group .
Minority populations were overrepresented in the summer 2014 and previous PIT surveys . In the
January 2014 PIT, persons who identified as Hispanic or Latino represented 12% of the homeless
population but comprise only 10% of the general population in Fort Collins . Persons who identified their
race as Black or African American comprised 3 % of the homeless population but represent only 1 % of
the general population in the City . The same is true for the American Indian/Alaska Native homeless
population in Fort Collins .
Point in Time 2014, Race and Ethnicity
Sheltered Unsheltered Percent
Race*
White 195 50 88%
Black or African American 8 1 3%
Asian 3 0 1 oho
American Indian or Alaska Native 16 1 6%
Pacific Islander 2 0 1 %
Ethnicity
Hispanic 31 5 12%
Not Hispanic 204 49 88%
Source : January 2014 Point-in-Time Count, Homeward 2020
* Numbers do not total 289, due to incomplete reporting .
Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness .
Although it falls outside the scope of the HUD framework for January 2014 data , because it is the most
recent captured and reported data, for the summer 2014 PIT, f the 344 valid responses to the question
of sheltered verses unsheltered, 180 reported being unsheltered and 164 reported being sheltered at
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the time of the count. All agencies serving the homeless report increased demand for services and
serious barriers to affordable options .
Discussion
Respondents in Fort Collins were asked during the PIT survey what they view as the primary cause of
their homelessness crisis . The highest reported reason (41 %) was high rents/ financial barriers and
unemployment . A disability or health related problem was the second highest reported reason at 17%
giving this answer. A change in family status was named as the primary reason for 10% of persons
experiencing homelessness who answered this question .
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NA45 Non - Homeless Special Needs Assessment - 91 . 205 ( b, d )
Introduction
The City of Fort Collins identifies several special need populations within the City . Populations include :
persons with physical disabilities; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities ( IDD ) ; mental health
disabilities; Substance Use Disorders (SUDS) ; elderly; frail elderly; people with HIV/AIDS; victims of
domestic violence; veterans; and at- risk youth . Grandfamilies (grandparents raising their
grandchildren ), are a subpopulation of seniors in Fort Collins that also sometimes need unique supports
to help manage their families' needs .
Seniors
The number of seniors in Fort Collins is expected to double in the next 15 years . According to the 2014
Social Sustainability Gap Analysis, the City is currently home to 12, 500 seniors, and over half are 75
years or older and have a disability. Moreover, most seniors in Fort Collins opt to stay in their homes
rather than move elsewhere . The analysis further identifies a need for additional assisted living beds
that accept Medicaid, as well as a need for 150 to 200 units of additional affordable senior rental
housing. Transportation assistance, increased options for in - home assistance, and accessible housing
modifications are also identified as current and emerging needs for the City' s senior population .
The CHAS data table below shows the number of elderly households in Fort Collins with housing
problems as defined by HUD in 2011 . A high percentage of low and moderate income senior households
had one of the four housing problems, the most likely of these being cost burden . HUD defines "elderly"
as those aged 62 to 74, and "extra elderly" as those aged 75 and greater.
Seniors with One or More Housing Problems
Owners Renters
W/Housing % w/ W/Housing % w/
Total Problem Problem Total Problem Problem
30% AMI or less
Elderly 320 235 73 % 385 270 70%
Extra -elderly 320 235 73 % 340 245 72%
30. 1-50% AMI
Elderly 505 170 34% 230 190 83 %
Extra -elderly 510 240 47% 270 220 81%
50. 1-80% AMI
Elderly 890 420 47% 270 100 37%
Extra -elderly 590 105 18% 310 310 100%
80. 1 - 100% AMI
Elderly 455 455 100% 125 30 24%
Extra -elderly 430 85 20% 70 70 100%
100% AMI and above
Elderly 31285 395 12% 195 0 0%
Extra -elderly 920 40 4% 125 35 28%
Source : HUD 2011 CHAS Data
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Domestic Violence
According to the 2014 Fort Collins Social Sustainability Gap Analysis, there are 550 people in Fort Collins
in need of services on a monthly basis to assist with issues related to domestic violence . There is
currently no permanent housing options specifically designed for victims of domestic violence, which
makes discharge after a temporary stay at Crossroads Safehouse challenging. Access to services, health
care and longer-term mental health care are key needs for this population . Crossroads serves both male
and female victims of domestic violence .
Mental Illness
Approximately 6, 500 adults and 1, 509 adolescents have a serious mental illness according to the 2014
Social Sustainability Gap Analysis . Although deaths by suicide had been declining annually, there was a
25% increase in deaths by suicide in 2014 . Only 29% of Larimer County residents who died by suicide in
2012 were receiving mental health treatment . The National Institute on Mental Health ( NIMH )
estimates approximately 59% of adults with a serious mental illness seek treatment . In Fort Collins,
8, 034 adolescents between the ages of 10- 19 are estimated to have a mild or serious mental illness, and
the approximate number of untreated adolescents is 600 . There are an estimated 3, 200 untreated
children and 2, 700 untreated adults in Fort Collins .
There is an identified need in the city for a residential facility for children under the age of ten with
behavioral or mental illnesses . According to the Health District of Northern Larimer County, inpatient
beds for children and adults fall short of current need .
Substance Use Disorders
According to the Social Sustainability Gaps Analysis, it is estimated 26, 000 Fort Collins residents abuse
alcohol and more than 11, 000 abuse drugs . Approximately 50% of individuals diagnosed with a mental
illness also have a substance use disorder. The prevalence of lifetime alcohol abuse in Fort Collins is 18%
of the population and for lifetime drug abuse 8% . The prevalence of lifetime dependence on alcohol is
13% (or 18, 579 ) and lifetime dependence on drugs is 3% ( 3, 864) . A dedicated detoxification center is an
identified gap in the continuum of services needed to safely serve this population .
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Disabilities
The US Census American Community Survey collects data related to disability status . In 2013 there were
12, 176 residents with disabilities; these persons may have more than one self- reported disability . The
most common disabilities were a hearing or visual impairment . Ambulatory and cognitive limitations
were the second and third most common type of disability. These disabilities can all require service
enriched or modified housing.
Disability Characteristics, 2013
With a Percent with
Total disability a disability
Total civilian noninstitutionalized 150 , 095 125176 8 . 10%
population
Population under 5 years 7 , 088 0 0 . 00%
With a hearing difficulty N 0 0 . 00%
With a vision difficulty N 0 0 . 00%
Population 5 to 17 years 21 , 134 498 2 .40%
With a hearing difficulty N 292 1 .40%
With a vision difficulty N 120 0 . 60%
With a cognitive difficulty N 326 1 . 50%
With an ambulatory difficulty N 120 0 . 60%
With a self-care difficulty N 120 0 . 60%
Population 18 to 64 years 1055970 61367 6 . 00%
With a hearing difficulty N 1 , 335 1 . 30%
With a vision difficulty N 11160 1 . 10%
With a cognitive difficulty N 29926 2 . 80%
With an ambulatory difficulty N 21752 2 . 60%
With a self-care difficulty N 967 0 . 90%
With an independent living N 19917 1 .80%
difficulty
Population 65 years and over 155903 5 , 311 33 .40%
With a hearing difficulty N 21991 18 .80%
With a vision difficulty N 692 4 .40%
With a cognitive difficulty N 19466 9. 20%
With an ambulatory difficulty N 2 , 735 17 .20%
With a self-care difficulty N 11249 7 . 90%
With an independent living N 2 ,273 14 . 30%
difficulty
Source : US Census Bureau, 2009-2013 American Community Survey
According to the 2014 Social Sustainability Gaps Analysis, four percent (4%) of the disabled population
are children . The report notes common disabilities are learning and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity
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Disorder (ADHD ) . Fifty percent of the disabled population were 18-64 years old . The most common
disabilities in this age group are ambulatory and cognitive disabilities . The report estimates a need for
350 new units of affordable housing and 60 new accessible housing units to meet the needs of these
populations, and a need for expanded supportive services for 600 residents with disabilities was also
identified .
The following table shows households with a disabled household member with incomes up to 80% AMI .
The most common disabilities were hearing and vision limitations . Ambulatory and cognitive limitations
were the second and third most common type of disability. These disabilities can all require service
enriched or modified housing. A large number of persons with disabilities fall within the lowest income
category. Renter households are more likely than owners to have extremely low-incomes at 0-30%
AMI .
HUD CHAS Disability Status by Tenure and Income Range, 2011
Total 0-30% AMI 31 -50% 51 -80% > 80% AMI
AMI AMI
All Households
Household member has a hearing or
vision impairment 4 , 040 715 645 780 1 , 900
Household member has an ambulatory
limitation 3 , 580 760 680 760 19380
Household member has a cognitive
limitation 31185 975 610 475 11125
Household member has a self-care or
independent living limitation 39000 750 530 510 19205
Renters
Household member has a hearing or
vision impairment 1 ,420 500 305 315 300
Household member has an ambulatory
limitation 11660 545 375 410 335
Household member has a cognitive
limitation 1 , 700 765 455 190 285
Household member has a self-care or
independent living limitation 1 , 365 520 270 290 285
Owners
Household member has a hearing or
vision impairment 29620 215 340 465 11600
Household member has an ambulatory
limitation 1 , 920 215 305 350 1 , 045
Household member has a cognitive
limitation 1 ,485 210 155 285 840
Household member has a self-care or
independent living limitation 1 , 635 230 260 220 920
Source : HUD CHAS Data 2011
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HUD CHAS Disability Status by Income Range, 2011
5,000
4,000
3 ,000
2,000
1,000
0
Household member has a Household member has Household member has a Household member has a
hearing or vision an ambulatory limitation cognitive limitation self-care or independent
impairment living limitation
00 - 30% AMI o0.r31 - 50% AMI 051 - 80% AMI 5 > 80% AMI
Source : HUD CHAS Data 2011
The table below shows the numbers of households by income range who have specific disabilities and
also have at last one housing problem . Housing problems are defined as either cost- burdened, lacking
kitchen or adequate plumbing, or overcrowding. While there are many more owners in Fort Collins than
renters, renters are much more likely to have a disabled household member and have a housing
problem . The most common housing problem in Fort Collins is cost burden . Renters with a disabled
household member also have lower incomes than owners, and are less likely to be able to afford higher
cost housing and the costs that may be associated with caring for a disabled household member.
HUD CHAS Disabled Households with Housing Problems by Tenure and Income Range, 2011
0- 31 - 51 - 80% > 80%
Total 30% 50%
A AMI AMI
MI AMI
All Households
Household member has a hearing or vision impairment 19364 555 325 310 174
Household member has an ambulatory limitation 12625 550 425 465 185
Household member has a cognitive limitation 11805 810 455 310 230
Household member has a self-care or independent living limitation 12580 605 395 345 235
Renters
Household member has a hearing or vision impairment 900 375 240 210 75
Household member has an ambulatory limitation 15100 350 295 340 115
Household member has a cognitive limitation 17220 625 395 155 45
Household member has a self-care or independent living limitation 915 380 240 220 75
Owners
Household member has a hearing or vision impairment 464 180 85 100 99
Household member has an ambulatory limitation 525 200 130 125 70
Household member has a cognitive limitation 585 185 60 155 185
Household member has a self-care or independent living limitation 665 225 155 125 160
Source : HUD CHAS Data 2011
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HUD CHAS Disabled Households with Housing Problems
3,000
2, 500
2,000
1, 500
1,000
500
0
0 - 30% AMI 31 - 50% AMI 51 - 80% AMI > 80% AMI
x Household member has a self-care or independent living limitation
Household member has a cognitive limitation
Oro Household member has an ambulatory limitation
■ Household member has a hearing or vision impairment
Source : HUD CHAS Data 2011
Discuss the size and characteristics of the population with HIV/AIDS and their families within
the Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area ( MSA) .
From 2009 to 2013, the numbers of newly reported HIV diagnoses in Larimer County declined . In 2013,
five new cases of HIV were reported by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment,
according to Larimer County CDPHE STI /HIV Surveillance Program data .
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NA-50 Non - Housing Community Development Needs — 91 . 215 (f)
Describe the jurisdiction's need for Public Facilities .
Like many Colorado Front Range communities, Fort Collins is experiencing a high population growth
rate . The increases in traffic and demands on public water and sewer facilities create an ongoing need
for expanded public infrastructure . The City presented a list of projects to the voters, which will be
undertaken since voters approved a sales tax assessment in the April 2015 municipal election . The City
maintains an up-to-date Capital Improvement Assessment and Plan which is used by both the City
Administration and City Council in setting priorities and work plans for City General Funds and Sales Tax
revenues . Because the City has other financing resources, it does not plan to use CDBG funds for general
public facilities . Since infrastructure needs and improvements are addressed through the City' s Capital
Improvement Plan, and are fluid over time, specific areas and projects are not noted as part of this
report .
The City' s Social Sustainability Strategic Plan has identified priority public facility needs to support
agencies providing assistance to lower income households in the community . Those needs include
expanding affordable licensed child care; medical assistance to households which have limited access to
mainstream medical services; healthy food and nutrition outlets; facilities, including the homeless
shelter that serve persons who are homeless or in danger of homelessness; space for agencies which
provide economic and social self-sufficiency supportive services to households facing the challenges of
poverty and threat of homelessness .
How were these needs determined ?
The City of Fort Collins conducts an annual review of the Capital Improvements Plan and emerging
needs, which includes public facilities and infrastructure items . In addition, the City has sponsored
extensive public participation efforts to gain a better understanding of the facility needs of agencies
serving the needs of low-income populations . These outreach efforts include key informant interviews
with agency personnel, and focus groups composed of citizens and agency representatives who focused
exclusively on how CDBG funds could be used to address the non - housing needs of the community. In
addition , public open houses and workshops were conducted to receive input from low- income citizens
and community activists, and low- income residents were surveyed on space and facility requirements
needed to effectively deliver services to low-income households, special needs groups and persons
experiencing homelessness .
Describe the jurisdiction's need for Public Improvements .
The City of Fort Collins has needs for Public Improvements . Growth puts added pressures on
infrastructure that serves the growing population . The City also has an established Growth
Management Area ( GMA) that limits the amount of land available for new development to serve the
growing population . There is only one area of the City, the northeast quadrant, which has any sizeable
land parcels for new development . However, in order for that undeveloped area to become viable for
new development, significant infrastructure improvements will need to be installed . Assuming a low-
income benefit could be measured in the new development area, the capital cost of those
improvements are so substantial they are beyond what could be developed with CDBG funds . Because
of the pressing Public Facility needs and Public Service needs identified by the City, Public Improvement
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needs will be addressed with City funds from the General Fund and other City- based revenue
sourcesHow were these needs determined ?
The City closely analyzes and tracks service demands and loads on existing facilities in order to update
and prioritize Capital Needs improvements . The City' s Planning and Zoning Board has conducted a
number of hearings and meetings to gain citizen input on the benefits and challenges of bringing new
infrastructure investment to the Northeast Quadrant of the City .
Describe the jurisdiction's need for Public Services.
The Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department Strategic Plan (SSDSP ) identifies vulnerable populations
who need ongoing supportive services . Those populations include households facing the challenges of
poverty; homeless individuals and households that face the threat of homelessness; seniors; and the
disabled . The City is making a comprehensive effort to weave together a coordinated plan to address
the needs of those populations . A critical component of an effective supportive services delivery system
is the use of Public Service CDBG funding allocations to partially support the staff and planning
infrastructure needed to deliver those services . In addition to its General Fund , the City, using its
Human Service Program, will utilize its CDBG Public Services portion to support the staffing and
operational expenses of the agencies that form the service network delivering services to vulnerable
populations .
How were these needs determined ?
Extensive outreach and civic engagement efforts were made as the City formulated its Social
Sustainability Department Strategic Plan . The Strategic Plan was formulated using the findings of its
Social Sustainability Gaps Analysis Study, released by the City in April, 2014 . This Gaps Analysis was the
culmination of extensive quantitative and qualitative analysis compiled by an outside consulting firm .
Statistical data from service providers and other resources was compared with community and service
provider input . The findings were distilled and eventually incorporated in the Social Sustainability
Department Strategic Plan . The City has used the Social Sustainability Department Strategic Plan , along
with its Consolidated Plan , to formulate actions and strategies to address the needs of those priority
populations .
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Housing Market Analysis
MA-OS Overview
Housing Market Analysis Overview :
Fort Collins has a very healthy housing market . Rents and sales prices have been on the rise, and
vacancies are very low. Unfortunately, this has created gaps in the number of units affordable to
renters at 60% AMI or less, and for renters interested in becoming homebuyers with incomes at 80%
AMI or less .
In September 2014, the City of Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department released a Housing
Affordability Policy Study ( NAPS) that provided an overview of the Fort Collins housing market, housing
prices, and housing issues and needs . Information and conclusions from this report, as well as HUD
CHAS data and supplemental data gathered by CSI in the fourth quarter of 2014, are used to complete
this Housing Market Analysis section of the Consolidated Plan .
Some conclusions from the recent Housing Affordability Policy Study report include :
• Although local employment growth has been stronger than regional growth, incomes have
barely kept pace with the cost of living
• Housing prices have risen faster than incomes, and the affordability gap for households at or
lower than the median income has widened
• In -commuting has increased while out-commuting has remained flat
• Demand for rental housing is tightening the market, but also stimulating construction
HUD CHAS data contained in this plan shows that 13, 213 renter households and 5, 184 owner
households at 80% AMI or less were cost burdened in Fort Collins in 2011 . An additional 8, 274 renter
households and 2, 765 owner households were severely cost burdened and paid more than 50% of their
income for housing in 2011 .
CSI analysis for the Consolidated Plan shows a gap in the rental housing inventory in all income ranges,
but especially for households at 80% AMI or less, where there exists a gap of over 7, 000 units . Renters
at 80% AMI or less interested in purchasing a home will not be able to afford the median priced home in
Fort Collins .
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MA40 Number of Housing Units — 91 . 210 ( a ) & ( b ) ( 2 )
Introduction
More than half of the Fort Collins housing stock is single family detached homes . Only 24% of units are
within rental or owner occupied properties with five or more units . During consultations for the
Consolidated Plan , key informants noted that to reduce costs and increase density, Fort Collins needs
more multi- unit rental and for-sale units . There are challenges to constructing large multi -family
residential properties in Fort Collins, including infrastructure costs and the threat of construction defects
claims . However, the Housing Affordability Policy Study points out that multi -family residential
construction accounted for 70% of all annual construction activity in Fort Collins between 2000 and
2007 . According to the study and the Fort Collins Building Department, there are now more than 4, 800
multi-family units in various stages of development and planning . However, most of these units are
market rate units and do not have price restrictions .
All residential properties by number of units
Property Type Number %
1- unit detached structure 341103 57%
1- unit, attached structure 51070 8%
2-4 units 41944 8%
5 - 19 units 91527 16%
20 or more units 41703 8%
Mobile Home, boat, RV, van , etc 11363 2%
Total 59, 710 1000/0
Table 26—Residential Properties by Unit Number
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
The US Census American Community Survey further refines this data by tenure . Almost 89% of all
owners live in detached single family homes, while renters are fairly evenly disbursed between single
family homes, small attached properties, and larger rental properties .
Housing Units by Structure Type and Tenure, 2013
Fort Collins
Renter Total
Owner occupied Pct occupied Pct Households Pct
1 , detached or attached
29,482 88. 6% 89391 34 . 1 % 37 , 873 65 .4%
2 to 9 units 17488 4 . 5% 7 , 133 29 . 0% 89621 14 . 9%
10 or more units 495 1 . 5% 89843 35 . 9% 99338 16 . 1 %
Mobile home and all other types of
units 1 , 821 5. 5% 255 1 . 0% 29076 3 . 6%
Total 33 ,286 24,622 575908
Source : US Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2013
In 2011, most owners lived in homes with three or more bedrooms, while the majority of renters lived in
units with one or two bedrooms . In 2011, the average household size for owners was 2 . 57
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persons, while renter households had a smaller average household size of 2 . 15 persons. Many
renters in Fort Collins are also students . The number of persons allowed to live within a housing
unit — some of whom are students-- is capped by the City.
Unit Size by Tenure
Owners Renters
Number % Number
No bedroom 0 0% 469 2%
1 bedroom 636 2% 41538 18%
2 bedrooms 51501 17% 111191 46%
3 or more bedrooms 251738 81% 81356 34%
Total 31F875 1000/0 24, 554 1000/0
Table 27-Unit Size by Tenure
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
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Affordable Rental Inventory in Fort Collins
# of Price
Units Restricted Population Served
Name Units
Bethphage 5 5 Persons with disabilities
Buffalo Run 144 86 Families
Bull Run Apartments 176 175 Families
CARE Housing at Eagle Tree 36 36 Families, persons with disabilities
CARE Housing at Greenbriar Village 40 40 Families, persons with disabilities
CARE Housing at Swallow Road 40 40 Families, persons with disabilities
Caribou Apartments 192 162 Families
Caribou II Apartments 96 96 Families
Country Ranch 118 117 Families
Coachlight Plaza* 68 68 Families
DMA Plaza* 126 126 Seniors, persons with disabilities
Fairbrooke Heights 36 35 Families, persons with disabilities
Fox Meadows 62 50 Families
Harmony Road Apartments* 22 22 Persons with disabilities
Hickory Hill 92 91 Families
Legacy Senior Apartments 72 72 Seniors
Mosaic III* 18 18 Persons with disabilities
NTN Azalea Drive 8 8 Families
NTN Aztec Drive 4 4 Families
NTN Clearview Dr. 8 8 Families
NTN Conifer St. 4 4 Special Needs
NTN Ponderosa 8 8 Families
Northern Hotel 48 48 Seniors/Disabled
Oakbrook Manor Apartments* 107 106 Seniors, persons with disabilities
Oakbrook II* 100 100 Seniors, persons with disabilities
Penny Flats 7 7 Families
Provincetowne Green 85 84 Families
Red Tail Ponds 60 60 Permanent Support Housing
Reflections Senior Apartments 72 71 Seniors
Rose Tree Village 120 120 Families
The Residence @ Oakridge 44 22 Seniors/assisted living
Sanctuary Apartments (VOA)* 60 60 Seniors
Springfield Court 63 62 Family
Villages on Cunningham 284 284 Family
Village at Elizabeth* 48 48 Families
Villages on Plum* 95 95 Families
Villages on Stanford* 82 82 Families
Willow Grove Village 72 54 Families
Windtrail Park 50 50 Families, seniors, persons with
disabilities
Woodbridge Sr. Apartments 50 49 Seniors
Woodlands Apts . 116 115 Families
TOTAL 21938 2,788
Source : CSI
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Rental Housing Gap (Supply/Demand ) Analysis
Units Surplus/
Affordable
Income Rent Renter Units
Surplus/ Occupied by and Deficit of
AMI Level Limit Afford . Households Available Deficit of Higher Available Affordable/
Units Income Units Available
Renters Units
0 - 30% $225050 $551 81242 21172 -6 ,070 559 15613 -6 ,628
31 - 50% $36 , 750 $919 51467 91721 4 ,254 41956 41765 -702
51 - 80% $585800 $ 1 ,470 51823 91278 3455 3 , 891 51387 -436
80 - 100% $73 , 500 $ 1 ,838 31004 11646 - 1 ,357 549 1 , 098 - 11906
101 % + >$73 , 500 >$ 1 , 838 41831 1 ,413 -3419 0 11413 -3 ,419
Source : CSI
Sales Market Gap
Upper- Price Units Median
income Affordable Available Priced Subsidy
AMI Level Limit Home Needed
0-30% AMI $22 , 050 $78, 000 0 $262 ,000 $ 184, 000
30-50% AMI $363750 $ 129, 000 16 $2629000 $ 133, 000
50-80% AMI $585800 $204 , 500 74 $262 , 000 $57 , 500
80- 100% AMI $735500 $258, 000 95 $2629000 $4, 000
101 % and over >$73, 500 >$258 , 000 11466 $262 ,000 $0
Source : CSI
Describe the number and targeting ( income level/type of family served ) of units assisted with
federal , state, and local programs .
CSI has compiled the list of all price restricted rental properties in Fort Collins . These units serve
families, seniors, persons with disabilities and persons who would otherwise be experiencing
homelessness . In total, there are currently 2, 790 price restricted rental units, including scattered site
public housing units in Fort Collins . All restrictions are for households at income levels from 0-60% AMI .
Villages, Ltd, the development arm of the Fort Collins Housing Authority, is planning to develop 72 new
units at Village on Redwood, which will be a Low Income housing Tax Credit ( LIHTC) property.
CSI has also calculated which units have project based rental assistance . Of the total affordable
inventory, 501 units owned by nonprofit and for- profit owners, 80 project based units at The Villages
properties ( a subsidiary of the Fort Collins Housing Authority), and the 194 public housing units have
project based rental assistance . Properties that have project based rental assistance have an asterisk ( * )
by their property name in the chart above .
Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity builds affordable homes for households earning 60% or less of the
AMI . Habitat provides a zero percent interest loan with affordable monthly payment to homeowners
who contribute up to 500 hours of "sweat equity" in the building of their home . Fort Collins Habitat has
built approximately 50 homes in Fort Collins and hopes to build 50 more by 2020 .
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Provide an assessment of units expected to be lost from the affordable housing inventory for
any reason, such as expiration of Section 8 contracts .
The Fort Collins Housing Authority ( FCHA) owns 154 scattered public housing units . The agency is in the
process of planning the disposal of the units, and has recently received approval of its RAD ( Rental
Assistance Demonstration ) application to HUD . FCHA hopes to begin the sale of the units by the end of
2015, and begin the process of purchasing and developing new replacement units, both through
acquisition and rehabilitation of existing multi -family developments in Fort Collins, and by building new
properties using a variety of subsidies .
No units are expected to be lost from the inventory at this time . However, two large Section 8
subsidized properties are privately held, Oakbrook I and Oakbrook II . Oakbrook I sold in 2006, and
retains income restrictions and rental assistance . Oakbrook II has HUD insurance and subsidized rents .
The owners could choose to sell it in the future and units could become market rate . Currently, there
are no plans for this, but the City of Fort Collins will monitor this project to ensure the deeply subsidized
units are not lost to the affordable inventory . DMA Plaza ended its contract with Section 8, but FCHA
retained the vouchers, so they are not lost to the community .
Does the availability of housing units meet the needs of the population ?
When there is a smaller number of housing units available to households within a certain income range
than there are households within that range, a housing gap exists . The gaps tables above provide a
supply/demand analysis of the housing stock in Fort Collins .
The supply/demand analysis chart shows the number of renter households in various income ranges in
2014; what a household can afford to pay in rent after consideration for a utility payment; the number
of rental units available in the market; the Surplus ( + ) or Deficit (- ) of units; the number of available units
occupied by households from higher income ranges; the resulting number of affordable and available
units; and the Surplus (+) or Deficit (-) of units after those occupied by higher income households are
removed from the affordable inventory. Household income is based the Larimer County median
income . The formula for calculating the Surplus/Deficit of Affordable/Available Units is :
• Households — Units Available = Surplus/ Deficit
• Surplus/Deficit — Units Occupied by Higher Income Renters = Affordable and Available Units *
• Households — Affordable and Available Units = Surplus/ Deficit of Affordable/Available Units ( a
negative means there is a gap )
* CSI used U . S . Census Bureau PUMS data to estimate the number of affordable units within each range
occupied by households with higher income than households within that range ( " Units Occupied by
Higher Income Renters" ) . This adjustment estimates how many units are affordable within the range
are truly available to households who have incomes within that range .
In Fort Collins, the supply/demand analysis above shows a lack of housing units affordable to
households in all income ranges, and a need for 6, 628 more rental units affordable at 0 - 30% AMI , 702
at 31 — 50% AMI , 436 at 51 to 80% AMI and 3,419 at 80 — 100% AMI . Affordable housing production
programs, such as the Low Income Housing Tax Credit ( LIHTC) program and the HOME Investment
Partnership Program ( HOME ), target renter households with incomes at or below 60% AMI . This
analysis has not been adjusted for CSU students . The recent EPS study, Fort Collins Housing Affordability
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Policy Study, shows that 5, 700 to 6, 900 renter households at approximately 0-30% AMI are students .
However, it is not known how many are included in the census calculations, how many are rent-
burdened, and would be included in the PUMS data used for this analysis . The Social Sustainability Gaps
Analysis estimates a gap for the lowest income households, after an adjustment for students, of 4, 200,
households in need of some sort of rental subsidy .
Most rental units within Fort Collins are affordable to households earning between 31 and 80% of
AMI . However, as our analysis shows, renters with higher incomes choose to live in market rate rental
units with lower rents, leaving fewer available for those with low incomes .
The CSI analysis shows a gap in the supply of units available to higher income renters in the 80% AMI or
above ranges, indicating a market for higher end rental units offering amenities not currently found in
the market. As the EPS housing policy study notes, there is a pipeline of new market rate rental housing
that will be developed in Fort Collins, indicating the private sector is responding to increased demand
for rental units from higher income households .
There is only one new Low Income Housing Tax Credit ( LIHTC) property being planned by the Fort Collins
Housing Authority, and none under development at this time by other nonprofit or for- profit
developers . Housing providers — including Care Housing and Neighbor to Neighbor, who were
interviewed during the development of the Consolidated Plan — consistently noted long waiting lists for
existing properties, low vacancy rates, rising rents and a lack of inventory as barriers to meeting the
needs of Fort Collins residents with incomes at or below 60% AMI . A growing student population adds
additional pressure to the rental housing market in Fort Collins .
The owner housing gap table above estimates the price affordable to households at the upper end of
the income range, an estimated number of units that will be on the market in their price range during
the next 12 months, and the amount of subsidy needed to help these households afford to purchase the
median priced home in Fort Collins . Households earning over 100% AMI do not need subsidy in Fort
Collins, however, those below 100% AMI do . Households at 51-100% AMI are the best candidates for
homeownership assistance programs in Fort Collins . The City' s program, due to various federal
restrictions and underwriting criteria integrity, serves those households up to 80% AMI . Households at
50% or less of the AMI will have a very difficult time finding an affordable home without large subsidies,
and are best suited as candidates for self- help programs such as the Habitat for Humanity model .
Describe the need for specific types of housing.
There is a need for rental housing for individuals and families at 60% AMI or less . The need is especially
acute for those at 0-30% AMI , persons in this income range on fixed incomes, and persons with special
needs, such as disabled individuals who need deeply subsidized units accessible and close to public
transportation .
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MA45 Housing Market Analysis : Cost of Housing - 91 . 210 ( a )
Introduction
Housing costs in Fort Collins and the entire northern Front Range have been rising . Rents have been on
the rise throughout 2013 and 2014, and low interest rates and sales inventory have made finding an
affordable housing unit for sale a challenge for households at 80- 100% or less of the AMI . The following
section of the report provides an analysis of current housing costs in Fort Collins and recent cost trends,
while also presenting all required Consolidated Plan tables and analysis of housing costs .
The following HUD- provided Consolidated Plan chart shows an 11-year trend in Fort Collins' housing
costs . The median home value between 2000 and 2011 rose 48%, or 4 .4% per year on average . The
median contract rent rose 27% during this 11-year period, an average of 2 . 5 % per year.
Cost of Housing
Base Year : 2000 Most Recent Year : 2011 % Change
Median Home Value 1641000 2421300 48%
Median Contract Rent 643 819 27%
Table 28—Cost of Housing
Data Source: 2000 Census ( Base Year), 2007-2011 ACS ( Most Recent Year)
Rent Paid Number %
Less than $ 500 2, 707 11 . 0%
$ 500-999 141381 58 . 6%
$ 1, 000- 11499 6512 26 . 5 %
$ 1, 500- 11999 696 2 . 8%
$ 2, 000 or more 258 1 . 1 %
Total 24, 554 100 , 00/0
Table 29-Rent Paid
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
Rent Paid Narrative
The HUD- provided table above shows the number and percentage of renters in Fort Collins in 2011
paying rents by rent range . The data shows that almost 59% of Fort Collins renters paid between $ 500
and $999 in rent. Only 11% paid less than $ 500 and 4% paid $ 1, 500 and over for rent . The Colorado
Division of Housing ( DOH ) tracks the price of rentals in Fort Collins, and provides more recent rental
pricing and vacancy information than the US Census .
Rents in Fort Collins have been on the rise . The average rent within the City rose 17% between the first
quarter of 2013 and the fourth quarter of 2014, from $ 1, 037 to $ 1, 210 per month . The median rent
rose 23 % during this same time period , from $ 977 to $ 1, 197 per month . The Housing Affordability
Policy Study notes that from 2000-2014, household incomes in Fort Collins grew ( in constant dollars )
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 76
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1 . 9% per year on average, while inflation has increased at 2 . 2 % per year. With an adjustment for cost of
living, household incomes have actually declined by 0 . 3% per year since 2000, giving households less
buying power than they had 14 years ago . At the same time, rents have increased 6 . 2% on average .
Rents Over Time in Fort Collins
1Q13 2Q 13 3Q 13 4Q 13 1Q14 2Q14 3Q14 4Q 14
Average Rent Fort
Collins $ 1 , 037 $988 $ 1 , 056 $998 $ 1 , 217 $ 1 , 087 $ 1 , 090 $ 1 , 210
Median Rent Fort Collins $977 $933 $998 $986 $ 1 , 145 $ 1 , 111 $ 1 , 123 $ 1 , 197
Source : Colorado Division of Housing Rent and Vacancy Survey
Rent Changes Over Time
$ 1, 300
$ 1, 200
$ 1, 100
$ 1,000
$900
$800 T
1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q
11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 14 14 14 14
Average Rent Fort Collins Median Rent Fort Collins
Source : Colorado Division of Housing Rent and Vacancy Survey
Rents were highest in northwest and southwest Fort Collins during the fourth quarter of 2014, and least
expensive in northeast Fort Collins .
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Average Rents by Fort Collins Sub-Market, 4th Quarter 2014
Southwest $ 1, 224. 26
Southeast $ 1, 206 . 74
Northeast $813 . 29
Northwest $ 1, 232 . 55
Fort Collins $ 1, 209 . 96
$0 $200 $400 $600 $800 $ 1,000 $ 1, 200 $ 1,400
Source : Colorado Division of Housing Rent and Vacancy Survey
Rents for all types of units have grown in Fort Collins over the past 12 months . Rents for efficiencies
rose at the highest rate, 15% during 2014 . Three bedroom rents remained stable, rents for one bedroom
units rose 11 %, two bedroom one bath rents rose 5% and two bedroom two bath rents rose 7% .
Average Rents by Apartment Type
2014
1 st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr
Efficiency $808 .48 $926 . 89 $915 .60 $928 . 02
One bedroom $952 . 10 $ 1 , 023 . 14 $ 17013 .88 $ 1 , 059. 71
Two bed , one bath $986 . 92 $997 . 56 $ 17019 .91 $ 1 , 037 . 52
Two bed , two bath $ 1 ,210 .62 $ 19246 . 56 $ 17259 .22 $ 1 , 296. 26
Three bedroom $ 15351 . 97 $ 19195 . 26 $ 1 , 179 . 89 $ 1 , 355. 04
All $ 15183 .04 $ 1 , 084 . 96 $ 1 ,090 . 20 $ 1 , 203 . 11
Source : Colorado Division of Housing Rent and Vacancy Survey
Rents have also increased in all property types except in buildings with 350 or more units . Rent
increases were largest in properties with 9-50 and 100-199 units .
Average Rents by Number of Units in Building
2014
1 st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr
2 to 8 $911 .28 $925 .69 $963 .00 $941 . 17
9 to 50 $726 . 76 $639 .60 $637 .60 $834 .42
51 to 99 $893 .40 $913 .75 $928 .86 $918 . 77
100 to 199 $ 15013 . 31 $ 1 , 093 .31 $ 1 , 116 . 37 $ 1 , 225. 60
200 to 349 $ 15126 . 98 $ 1 , 171 . 17 $ 1 , 158 .42 $ 1 , 218. 18
350 up $ 15673 .29 $867 .86 $858 .84 $ 1 ,465 . 75
Source : Colorado Division of Housing Rent and Vacancy Survey
CSI reviewed all sales listings for units on the market in Fort Collins in December of 2014 to prepare the
following tables . Units with over five acres of land were excluded from this analysis . In December, the
average asking price of a single family home on the market in Fort Collins was $480, 875 and the median
price of a single family home on the market was $450, 000 . Attached units, townhomes and condos,
have lower prices . The average price of an attached unit was $ 317, 298 and the median price was
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 78
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$ 299, 667 . Single family homes have a larger average size of 3, 500 square feet, and tend to have one-
fourth more bathrooms more than attached units . Attached units are, on average, newer than single
family homes .
December 2014 Current Sales Listings
Avg Price Median Avg Avg Avg Avg Avg Year
Garage
Price Bdrms Baths Spaces S. F. Built
Single Family $480 ,875 $450 , 000 2 . 5 3 2 3 ,500 1992
Condos/Attached $317 , 298 $299 , 667 2 . 5 2 . 75 2 29025 2006
Source : MLS Data , CSI
Attached unit prices are concentrated in the $ 250, 000-$400, 000 price range, while the highest numbers
of single family homes for sale are in the $ 350, 001 to $400, 000, $450, 001-$500, 000 and over $ 600, 000
price ranges . Few homes were on the market below $ 200, 000 .
December 2014 Sales Listings by Price Range
>$600, 000
$ 551, 001 - $600,000
$ 500, 001 - $550,000
$4501001 - $500,000
$400, 001 - $4101000
$ 350, 001 - $400,000
$ 300, 001 - $350,000
$ 250, 001 - $300,000
$ 200, 001 - $250,000
$ 150, 001 - $200,000 �
$ 100, 001 - $ 150,000
<$ 1001000 _
0 10 20 30 40 50
Condos/ Attached ■ Single Family
Source : MLS, CSI
Single family homes in Fort Collins sold at the same pace in 2014 than they did in 2013 , while attached
units sold at a faster pace in 2014 than in 2013 . Attached unit prices are more affordable than single
family home prices, and because of legal and market obstacles, not as many attached units have been
constructed in Fort Collins as single family homes in recent years, causing a shortage of these units on
the market. CSI found 244 detached single family homes for sale in December of 2014 and only 66
attached units for sale . The Housing Affordability Policy Study examined historic price trends in Fort
Collins, and found that prices have risen 2 . 8% per year in Fort Collins between 2000 and 2013, for an
overall increase of 42% during this time period .
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Sales Price Trends
Oct 2013 YTD Oct 2014 YTD
Attached Detached Attached Detached
Median Price Sold $ 159 , 000 $256 , 000 $207 , 750 $2835800
Average DOM 75 82 65 82
Source : MLS, CSI
Sales Price Trends
$ 300, 000 ., 2930900
$ 256, 000
$ 250, 000
$207, 750
$ 200, 000
$ 159, 000
$ 150, 000
$ 100, 000
$ 50, 000
$0
Attached Detached Attached Detached
Oct 2013 YTD Oct 2014 YTD
Source : MILS, CSI
HUD creates an estimate of the number of units on the market that are affordable to households at
each HUD income range, using 2011 American Community Survey data . The analysis estimates there
were a total of 23, 695 rental and 12, 915 owner occupied units affordable to households at 100% AMI or
less in Fort Collins . Rental units subsidized with HOME funds may only charge the maximum rent limits,
listed below, for HOME subsidized units .
Housing Affordability
Units affordable to Households Renter Owner
earning
30% HAMFI 11340 No Data
50% HAMFI 51880 720
80% HAMFI 161475 31655
100% HAMFI No Data 81540
Total 23, 695 12,915
Table 30—Housing Affordability
Data Source : 2007-2011 CHAS
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Monthly Rent
Monthly Rent ($ ) Efficiency ( no 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom
bedroom )
Fair Market Rent 559 692 833 11227 11475
High HOME Rent 602 744 896 11279 11408
Low HOME Rent 602 728 875 1, 010 11127
Table 31—Monthly Rent
Data Source : HUD FMR and HOME Rents
Fourth Quarter 2014 Rents Comparison with FMR and High HOME Rents
4th Qtr FMR % Difference High HOME % Difference
Efficiency $928 . 02 $559 60% $602 65%
One bedroom $ 1 , 059 . 71 $692 65% $744 70%
Two bed , one bath $ 19037 . 52 $833 80% $896 86%
Two bed , two bath $ 19296 .26 $833 64% $896 69%
Three bedroom $ 15355. 04 $ 19227 91 % $ 15279 94%
Source : CSI
Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels ?
No, the gaps analysis provided in MA- 10 shows there are gaps for rental units priced for households
earning 60% AMI or less, and gaps for households with incomes at 100% AMI trying to purchase a home
in Fort Collins . Renter households at 0-30% AMI are especially impacted by a lack of affordable housing
options .
How is affordability of housing likely to change considering changes to home values and/or
rents ?
The analysis provided in this MA- 15 Cost of Housing section of the Consolidated Plan shows that the cost
of housing in Fort Collins is on the rise for all types of housing units, for rent and for sale . Increases in
incomes are not keeping pace with increases in housing prices, and households with fixed or low wage
incomes are struggling more than ever to pay for housing . As market prices continue to rise, more
households will become cost burdened and those in need of homeless prevention services will also
continue to rise . Waiting list increases at price restricted housing properties illustrate the demand and
need for more price restricted rental units in Fort Collins .
How do HOME rents / Fair Market Rent compare to Area Median Rent ? How might this
impact your strategy to produce or preserve affordable housing ?
Average rents for all apartment types in Fort Collins are higher than both the Fair Market Rent limits
( FMRs ) and the High HOME rent limits . The table above shows that FMR and High HOME rents run
between 60% and 94% of prevailing rents . The largest variance is for efficiency, one bedroom and two
bedroom two bath units . Housing providers have indicated it is very hard for their clients to find smaller
units, and those with vouchers find it even more difficult to find private landlords willing to accept
Section 8 vouchers with the low FMR reimbursement rates .
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MAm20 Housing Market Analysis : Condition of Housing — 91 . 210 ( a )
Introduction
In addition to analyzing housing costs, it is essential to also study the condition of the housing stock
within a community. Older housing units may need rehabilitation or upgrades to make them safe and
habitable . Older units may also have lead based paint or other hazards that need to be mitigated . The
following information provides an analysis of the condition of housing units in Fort Collins .
HUD calculates the number of occupied housing units with one or more "selected conditions" by
tenure . These conditions include :
• Lack of complete plumbing
• Lack of complete kitchen facilities
• More than one person per room
• Cost burden greater than 30%
In Fort Collins, very few housing units lack complete plumbing . The 2011 American Community Survey
reported only 435 rental units and 14 owner units occupied by households at 100% AMI or less that
lacked complete plumbing or kitchen facilities . These units should be candidates for the local housing
rehabilitation programs . While HUD does not report which conditions exist in housing units, cost
burden is the greatest issue facing Fort Collins households, as reported in the Housing Needs section of
this report, and can be assumed to be the one selected condition most often found in the City.
Definitions
HUD requires the local jurisdiction provide their definition for "standard condition" and "substandard
condition but suitable for rehabilitation " in the Consolidated Plan . The Larimer Home Improvement
Program ( LHIP ), operated by the Loveland Housing Authority throughout Larimer County, including the
City of Fort Collins, has developed Program Guidelines for the housing rehabilitation program . The City
of Fort Collins provides funding to operate this program within the City limits of Fort Collins, and the
program operates in cooperation between the City of Fort Collins, City of Loveland, and Larimer County.
The program provides rehabilitation loans to qualified households earning 80% of the AMI or less .
According to this program :
The definition of "Standard Condition" is a housing unit that meets HUD Housing Quality Standards
( HQS ), as well as all Colorado and Fort Collins building codes .
The definition of "Substandard Condition" is a housing unit that has a minimum of one HQS deficiency
or building code violation .
The definition of "Substandard Condition but suitable for Rehabilitation" requires the HQS or code
violation must be correctable during the rehabilitation process, and the home must be able to be
brought up to current building codes . The property value after completion of the rehabilitation
assistance shall not exceed 95 % of the median purchase price of Larimer County. Total indebtedness
shall not exceed 95 % of the home' s value . Determination of the median purchase prices in Larimer
County can be calculated either by looking at the HUD/FHA Mortgage Limits, or performing a local
market survey to determine the median purchase price . The current value of the home shall be verified
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 82
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using either Assessor records, an appraisal no older than six months, comparable sales no older than six
months, or the sale price of the home if purchased within the past six months .
Condition of Units
Condition of Units Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied
Number % Number %
With one selected Condition 81785 28% 131854 56%
With two selected Conditions 105 0% 536 2 %
With three selected Conditions 10 0% 58 0%
With four selected Conditions 7 0% 0 0%
No selected Conditions 221968 72% 101106 41 %
Total 31,875 1000/0 24, 554 990/0
Table 32-Condition of Units
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
Owner-occupied units in Fort Collins tend to be newer than rental units . Over 65% of owner-occupied
units were built in 1980 or after, while only 50% of rentals were built in 1980 or after. Units constructed
before 1980 may be in need of rehabilitation and upgrades, and may also contain lead - based paint .
Year Unit Built
Year Unit Built Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied
Number % Number %
2000 or later 71575 24% 31624 15 %
1980- 1999 131339 42% 81479 35 %
1950- 1979 91024 28% 101156 41 %
Before 1950 11937 6% 21295 9%
Total 31,875 1000/0 24, 554 1000/0
Table 33—Year Unit Built
Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS
HUD calculates the number of housing units that may be at risk for lead - based paint hazards . Units built
before 1980 may have lead - based paint, which is dangerous to children if not properly encapsulated or
remediated . The following table shows the number of homes built in Fort Collins before 1980 where
children are present . Colorado has not conducted any area wide lead - based paint studies which would
help determine how many children may be at risk for lead poisoning in Fort Collins . Owners of rental
housing units should test for lead to ensure rental units are safe for children living in them . In Colorado,
owners are required to disclose any knowledge of lead hazards when selling their homes . Homes
rehabilitated with CDBG funds must meet all HUD lead - based paint safety requirements .
CSI estimates of the units built before 1980 where children are present, 7, 234 owner-occupied units and
8, 218 renter-occupied units may contain a lead hazard .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 83
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Risk of Lead- Based Paint Hazard
Risk of Lead- Based Paint Hazard Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied
Number % Number
Total Number of Units Built Before 1980 101961 34% 121451 51%
Housing Units build before 1980 with children present 41005 13 % 11575 6%
Table 34—Risk of Lead-Based Paint
Data Source : 2007-2011 ACS (Total Units) 2007-2011 CHAS ( Units with Children present)
Vacant Units
Suitable for Not Suitable for Total
Rehabilitation Rehabilitation
Vacant Units 816 0 816
Abandoned Vacant Units unknown
REO Properties 23 0 23
Abandoned REO Properties unknown
Table 35-Vacant Units
HUD requests that grantees estimate the number of vacant housing units, those suitable for
rehabilitation and those not suitable for rehabilitation . This information is not tracked by the City of
Fort Collins . However, American Community Survey data indicates there are 816 vacant units in Fort
Collins which are not for rent, for sale, or second homes . RealtyTrac, a service which tracks forecloses
and Real Estate Owned ( REO ) bank-owned properties, reports that there are currently 23 REO units for
sale in Fort Collins . CSI does not believe there are any abandoned REO properties in Fort Collins .
Need for Owner and Rental Rehabilitation
Just over 40% of all housing units in Fort Collins were built before 1980 . Units built in or before the
1980s may be in need of rehabilitation , especially those units built over 40 or 50 years ago . Housing
providers indicate there are a significant number of older market rate rental properties in need of repair
and upgrades in Fort Collins . The following map shows the age of rental housing units and low and
moderate income census tracts ( outlined in green ) in Fort Collins . Older units in low- income census
tracts are located in in the northern portion of the City .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 84
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Rental Housing Units Built Before 1980, Fort Collins
Map Legend
.am, " o Rental Housing Built Before
1980
< 15.6%
15.E-42.66°h
42.66-65.75%
Ili
65.75-86.85%
' >86.85%
Low- Mod Census Tracts
•
I
�1
Source : HUD CPD Maps
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 85
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Estimated Number of Housing Units Occupied by Low- or Moderate- Income Families with
Lead - Based Paint ( LBP) Hazards
CSI estimated the number of housing units occupied by low- or moderate- income families that may
contain lead - based paint . CSI estimated that 7, 234 owner-occupied units and 8, 218 renter-occupied
units may contain lead .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 86
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MA- 25 Public and Assisted Housing — 91 . 210 ( b )
Introduction
The Fort Collins Housing Authority ( FCHA) owns 194 scattered public housing units . The agency is in the process of planning the disposal of the
units, and has submitted a Rental Assistance Demonstration ( RAD ) application to HUD . FCHA hopes to sell the units by the end of 2015, and
begin the process of purchasing and developing new replacement units, both through acquisition and rehabilitation of existing multi -family
developments in Fort Collins, and by building new properties using a variety of subsidies .
Totals Number of Units
Program Type
Certificate Mod-Rehab Public Vouchers
Housing Total Project -based Tenant -based Special Purpose Voucher
Veterans Family Disabled
Affairs Unification
Supportive Program
Housing
# of units vouchers
available 0 27 154 926 141 785 598 0 382
# of accessible units
* includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition
Table 36—Total Number of Units by Program Type
Data Source: PIC ( PIH Information Center)
Describe the supply of public housing developments .
See above .
Describe the number and physical condition of public housing units in the jurisdiction, including those that are participating in an
approved Public Housing Agency ( PHA) Plan .
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The FCHA is in the process of disposing of its scattered site public housing units . The agency received a
score for the units in 2011 of 94 . The units have not had another REAC score since then as the RAID
planning progresses .
Public Housing Condition
Public Housing Development Average Inspection Score
Scattered site units (2011 score ) 94
Table 37-Public Housing Condition
Describe the restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units in the jurisdiction .
There are no restoration and revitalization needs of these public housing units, which will be sold
sometime in 2015 .
Describe the public housing agency' s strategy for improving the living environment of low-
and moderate-income families residing in public housing.
Residents of public housing units will be relocated to new properties, which will have superior locations,
community buildings, better building condition , greater efficiencies/energy efficiencies, and access to
on -site property managers . Residents who move will also have housing choice vouchers, and, after a
year, may request a regular portable Section 8 Voucher which they can use to move to privately held
housing .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 88
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MAm30 Homeless Facilities and Services — 91 . 210 ( c )
Introduction
Through a multi-faceted approach to addressing homelessness in Fort Collins, several types of housing
have been established and more are under development to help those in need . The types of facilities
and services available in Fort Collins include emergency shelters, transitional housing, and permanent
supportive housing . Fort Collins is a part of the North Front Range Continuum of Care ( NFRCC), part of
Colorado' s Balance of State Continuum of Care . Homeward 2020 is a consortium initiative developed to
make homelessness rare, short- lived, and non - recurring. This effort encompasses leadership from the
business, government, and non - profit sectors in the community, and counts the City of Fort Collins
among its supporters and partners . The table below summarizes the number of beds and units available
within the City Limits of Fort Collins .
Facilities Targeted to Homeless Persons
Emergency Shelter Beds Transitional Permanent Supportive
Housing Beds Housing Beds
Year Round Voucher / Current & Current & Under
Beds Seasonal / New New Development
(Current & Overflow
New) Beds
Households with 65 0 126 10
Adult (s ) and Child ( ren )
Households with Only 117 26 10 12
Adults
Chronically Homeless 67 (40- Red
Households tail Ponds;
27- FCHA
SRO
Program )
Veterans 115 (VASH )
Unaccompanied Youth 18
Table 38-Facilities Targeted to Homeless Persons
List and describe services and facilities that meet the needs of homeless persons, particularly
chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their
families, and unaccompanied youth . If the services and facilities are listed on screen SP-40
Institutional Delivery Structure or screen MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services,
describe how these facilities and services specifically address the needs of these populations .
Because many providers offer services to homeless and non - homeless persons, a detailed list of services
will be found in MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services Section of the Consolidated Plan .
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There is currently no day shelter in Fort Collins but resource referrals and other services are provided
during the day at two facilities . The Murphy Center provides morning services and Catholic Charities
provides afternoon assistance for persons experiencing homelessness .
The Sister Mary Alice Murphy Center for Hope (The Murphy Center) serves as the single point of entry
for persons experiencing homelessness and in need of multiple services . Available services on site
include employment assistance; housing assistance; financial counseling; mental health and substance
abuse counseling; dental health ; computer and phone access . Multiple community providers staff the
Murphy Center at various times and days during the week to decrease the challenges persons
experiencing homelessness often encounter going from one agency to another seeking help .
Neighbor to Neighbor ( N2N ) serves Fort Collins and all of Larimer County with several housing related
services that include emergency rental assistance, first month' s rent assistance, foreclosure prevention
counseling, and homebuyer education .
Homelessness Prevention Initiative ( HPI ) seeks to prevent Poudre School District families from falling
into homelessness by providing rental assistance and financial literacy classes . HPI provides services at
multiple locations throughout the county and at the Murphy Center.
Salvation Army of Fort Collins Rent and Utilities Assistance Program helps residents who have received
an eviction or utility shutoff notice when funds are available . Catholic Charities also offers a utility
assistance program for eligible residents of Larimer County who have received shutoff notices .
Disabled Resource Services ( DRS) offers limited financial assistance to persons with a disability for
emergency needs such as prescriptions, transportation , eviction prevention or emergency utility
payments .
The Food Bank of Larimer County and its partner agencies served 29, 034 people in 2014 at its service
pantry locations in Fort Collins and Loveland . The focus of the food bank is to distribute healthy foods,
provide education and healthy recipes and to create a hunger free community.
The Fort Collins Rescue Mission offers the most emergency shelter beds in Fort Collins . The Mission has
75 beds available for emergency shelter.
Crossroads Safehouse operates emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and also provides
transitional housing units for this population as well .
The Matthews House is a local non - profit entity that helps youth and families gain self-sufficiency. Its
HOST program provides temporary housing for children, youth and families in crisis .
Catholic Charities operates a 16- unit transitional housing program for veterans experiencing
homelessness . For HUD' s Housing Inventory County ( HIC) purposes, these units are still considered
emergency shelter. Additionally, Catholic Charities has : 42 beds for men ( 18 " program ", 24
overflow/overnight ) ; 10 beds for women ( 6 " program", 4 overflow/overnight), sixteen beds for families
(4 rooms with 4 beds each ); and emergency winter on -site space for 20 men .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 90
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In collaboration with the Fort Collins Housing Authority, Crossroads Safehouse provides 25 transitional
housing units and an additional six units of housing on -site for those unable to reside in the community
for various reasons .
The Fort Collins Housing Authority is the developer of the City' s first permanent supportive housing
facility. Redtail Ponds provides supportive services, life skills, case management and counseling to its
residents . Forty units target formerly homeless individuals and twenty units are available for those who
fall within the 30-50% Area Median Income (AMI ) range .
The Fort Collins Housing Authority ( FCHA), in partnership with the Department of Veteran' s Affairs,
administers 115 VA Supportive Housing Vouchers (VASH ) for homeless veterans in Fort Collins . In
addition, the FCHA has 27 beds in its SRO Programs designated for adults experiencing homelessness .
Volunteers of America (VOA), has a program called Supportive Services for Veteran Families . The
program encompasses homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing for veteran families .
Describe mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the
extent those services are used to complement services targeted to homeless persons
Mainstream benefits play an important role in supplementing household income and serve as a safety
net for vulnerable households . Benefits include income supports, health care and work supports . Often
individuals experiencing homelessness are eligible for these benefits . Uncomplicated access to these
benefits can decrease the length of time families and individuals experience homelessness .
Larimer County administers several public assistance programs available to low-income homeless and
non - homeless citizens . They include child care assistance ( CCAP ) ; Food Stamps; Low-income Energy
Assistance Program ( LEAP ) ; Weatherization ; Medicaid ; Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF ) ;
Social Security; Old Age Pension ( OAP ) ; and Aid to Needy and Disabled (AND ) .
Access to mainstream services can be challenging and difficult to navigate for persons with certain
barriers . The Murphy Center in Fort Collins strives to bring available community resources to one place
to decrease barriers for homeless persons . Services onsite at the center include : employment
resources; housing assistance; financial counseling; transportation assistance; job training and
educational opportunities; mental health and substance abuse counseling; phone and computer access
for employment contacts; medical and dental health assistance; washer/dryer; showers; and storage
facilities .
"Navigators" is one partner of the Murphy center . It works to assist homeless citizens and those at risk
in applying for State benefits such as Food Stamps and Temporary Aid to Needy Families .
Touchstone Health Partners is a primary provider of mental health and substance abuse evaluations,
referrals, and treatment for homeless individuals and families .
Senior Community Service Employment Program provides employment support for seniors who are
homeless with job opportunities .
A primary component of the Fort Collins Ten Year Plan to Make HomelessnessRare, Short- Lived, and
Non- Recurring is to increase access to mainstream benefits for homeless persons . Access to
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mainstream services is often a frustrating process for populations with multiple challenges . SOAR, a
national program, is a proven strategy that helps states increase access to people who are at risk of
homelessness by increasing access to eligibility assessments for SSI/SSDI . Establishing income for
eligible homeless citizens is a critical step in accessing or retaining housing .
The Colorado PEAK system is an online system where applicants can apply directly for public assistance .
The Larimer County Benefits Information Center assists citizens with direct help from technicians who
can provide detailed information about each case, including status of applications, whether there are
missing documents, and information on how to apply .
Hand- Up Cooperative, under the auspices of Homeless Gear, is a nonprofit community initiative that
includes many Fort Collins businesses and social service agencies . The cooperative assists people who
are either at risk or experiencing homelessness gain employment and navigate a road to financial self-
sufficiency .
The Larimer County Workforce Center- Employment First ( EF ) is a program for Larimer County food
assistance participants who are also eligible for employment services . The Workforce Center has a
Resource Center ( computers, fax, phone, copy machine ) which can be utilized for job searches .
Employment case management, resumes and cover letters, job search skills workshops, transportation,
training scholarships and internship opportunities are offered . Other employment resources noted in
the Ten Year Plan to Make Homelessness Rare, Short- Lived , and Non- Recurring in Fort Collins include
Labor Ready and the Women' s Resource Center ( now defunct ) .
The Larimer County Workforce Center provides job search assistance and referrals designed specifically
for unemployed veterans . It has a Veterans Workforce Investment Program, which provides licensing,
certification and training for veterans . Larimer County Veterans Service office assists veterans and their
families with filing for and obtaining benefits, claim counseling, developing claims and representation .
The Veteran ' s Service Office and the Vet Center also assist veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI ) and
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD ) .
The Larimer County Workforce Center Youth Services program has several components . Young adults
aged 14-21 can receive assistance with education and employment including tutoring, GED assistance,
training scholarships, job search and information and referrals to other needed services, including
housing . Direct support and advocacy are available to all youth participants .
Touchstone Health Partners (formerly Larimer Center for Mental Health ) administers comprehensive
mental health and substance abuse services to the community and in collaboration with the Murphy
Center to increase access to treatment for persons who are homeless . Case management services
integrate mental health and physical health care with collaborations with area health care professionals .
Touchstone operates supportive housing programs in various locations in Larimer County. (See needs
section for additional detail ) .
Salud Family Health Care in Fort Collins is one of four health centers in Larimer County . It is part of the
Plan De Salud Del Valle Health Centers network, and operates year- round . It primarily serves the rural
population in Fort Collins and surrounding cities with primary care, mental health and enrollment
assistance .
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Fort Collins Veteran's Outpatient Clinic provides primary care, mental health counseling, audiology,
nutrition counseling, physical and occupational therapy services . There is a laboratory for routine blood
draws at this location as well .
Turning Point Center for Youth and Family Development (Turning Point) was originally established as
an emergency shelter for youth in the juvenile justice system many years ago . Although no longer
providing service in that capacity, it has grown to become a multi -service agency offering crisis
intervention, day treatment, outpatient therapy, coaching and mentoring, intensive residential
treatment, and other mental health and substance abuse treatment options for both homeless and non -
homeless youth and their families .
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MA- 3S Special Needs Facilities and Services — 91 . 210 ( d )
Introduction
The City of Fort Collins has many services, facilities and housing programs designed to address the needs
of the elderly and frail elderly population ; persons with mental , physical and developmental disabilities;
people with Substance Use Disorders (SUDS ); people with HIV/AIDS; victims of domestic violence;
veterans; and at- risk risk youth .
The primary housing need of many of these households is cost burden . Many people with special needs
require supportive housing and services to enable them to live independently and to avoid
homelessness or institutionalization . The supportive housing and services needed by these
subpopulations are often similar to needs of people experiencing homelessness .
Include the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities ( mental, physical, developmental ),
persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families,
public housing residents and any other categories the jurisdiction may specify, and describe
their supportive housing needs .
Elderly and Frail-Elderly
In - home health care and accessible and affordable living quarters are all necessary components for
some members of the aging population in Fort Collins . Moreover, transportation assistance, light
housekeeping/ shopping and other disability services are necessary supportive housing for many
seniors . Some seniors in Fort Collins have grandchildren living with them and are primary caregivers .
The emotional and physical well - being of this group relies on available services and affordable housing
options . In addition, seniors are more likely to have a disability than other populations . Some need 24-
hour care to remain safely in their homes, as cognitive and physical abilities change over time .
• The Larimer County Office on Aging coordinates multiple services for seniors in Fort Collins .
Adult Resources for Care and Help (ARCH ) provides short term case management to help
seniors with independent living challenges .
• The Family Caregiver Support Program supports family members caring for seniors in their
homes . Respite care, counseling and referrals to caregiver support groups is provided .
• The County' s Long Term Care Ombudsman provides assistance and mediation for residents of
long term care facilities .
• The County offers a Senior Tax Work Off program for low- income seniors to work off a portion
of their property tax bill .
• Project Visibility provides training and education for those serving LGBT seniors in the
community .
• Elderhaus currently has two facilities that provide services to seniors with higher needs and
more active seniors . Other services include transportation assistance, mobile health services
and a Medicaid Benefit Helper program .
• The City of Fort Collins Senior Center provides wellness services to seniors and community
members of all ages and income levels . Diverse social activities and outings are provided
regularly. It is accredited by the National Council on Aging and serves an estimated 1,000
community members daily. A major expansion of the center was completed in 2014.
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• Rehabilitation Visiting Nurses Association ( RVNA) provides in - home health care for low- income
seniors with multiple needs in Fort Collins .
• Volunteers of America serves seniors by providing grocery shopping assistance, handyman help,
meals and respite care .
• Saint Volunteer Transportation (SAINT) is a non - profit organization that utilizes volunteers to
provide transportation to seniors ( many with disabilities and/or mental illnesses ) in Fort Collins
and Loveland .
Persons with Disabilities
Many disabled community members are in need of accessible, affordable housing options with a
spectrum of services tailored to their individual needs . Those living on Social Security alone ( $ 13, 500 )
fall below the poverty line and are at higher risk, given high housing costs . Transportation assistance,
medication assistance and assistance with shopping, bathing and cleaning are necessary for some
members of the community. The Social Sustainability Gaps Analyses found that 600 people in Fort
Collins with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities need expanded supportive services .
• The Larimer County Special Needs Population Registry is a newer program that keeps a registry
of names of people with special needs who may need assistance in the event of an emergency
evacuation . Several local agencies, the City of Fort Collins and Loveland are all partners in this
effort .
• Foothills Gateway is the local Community Center Board in Larimer County that serves Fort
Collins . Foothills Gateway serves approximately 1, 600 persons with cognitive disabilities and
their families annually through a variety of services . There are 600 people currently on the wait
list for services .
• Disabled Resource Services ( DRS) is a non - profit entity in Fort Collins that provides a variety of
services to people with disabilities in Larimer and Jackson counties . DRS has 15 housing
vouchers coupled with case management services . DRS provides advocacy related to fair
housing issues, employment, transportation and financial ( benefits ) assistance, including initial
applications and appeals .
Mental Health Disabilities
Persons with mental health challenges also need a variety of supportive services tailored to their
individual needs . Safe, affordable housing combined with in - home medication monitoring, peer to peer
support, social outings, therapeutic services, life-skills and case management are all facets of the
supportive housing needs of this population .
• The Health District of Northern Larimer County reports providers of mental health services
have seen an increase in depression, anxiety and other mental health issues in children and in
adults throughout the county. They cite a lack of psychiatric beds for both adults and children .
• Touchstone Health Partners (formerly Larimer Center for Mental Health ) administers
comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services to those needing treatment who
are often low-income and/or uninsured or underinsured . Case management services integrate
mental health and physical health care in collaborations with area health care professionals .
Touchstone also operates supportive housing programs in various locations in Larimer County .
• The Alliance for Suicide Prevention of Larimer County offers support groups for families who
have survived the loss of a loved one by suicide . The agency also provides outreach , community
education and referrals to adults and youth to help prevent suicide .
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• Mental Health Connections is a partnership between the Health District of Larimer County and
Touchstone Health Partners to improve mental health and substance abuse care in Larimer
County. It provides crisis assistance, coordination of resources and advocacy for persons
needing affordable care .
Substance Abuse Disorders
Persons with substance use disorders ( SUDS) --or who are dually diagnosed with mental health and SUDS
disorders, also need affordable quality housing with in - home and community based ongoing case
management and therapy . Individualized plans may involve medication monitoring, employment
and/or vocational assistance and possibly other supports . Transportation is an important factor for all
of the above mentioned populations .
• Touchstone Health Partners ( more detail above) administers comprehensive substance use
disorder treatment programs to the community. According to the Health District of Northern
Colorado' s community discussion groups, there is increasing need for detoxification services for
people with addictions — particularly opiate addiction — as well as an increasing need for
inpatient care and treatment .
• Mountain Crest Behavioral Healthcare Center is a service of Poudre Valley Hospital ( UC Health )
and offers adult inpatient treatment for serious mental illness stabilization or substance use
detoxification . It also offers an adolescent residential program that includes continued
schooling for teens and a partial day program for teenagers .
• The Lighthouse is a faith - based residential facility designed to support sober living for adult
men . The program includes life skills, in house classes, educational and employment assistance .
HIV/AIDS
Persons with HIV/AIDS with limited resources sometimes need supportive housing to improve outcomes
related to their physical and mental health . When access to quality housing and services are available,
lower income people with HIV/AIDS are more likely to receive necessary medical and therapeutic
treatments, as well as other social supports that aid recovery.
• Northern Colorado AIDS project ( NCAP), part of the Colorado Health Network ( CHN ), provides
prevention, care and advocacy. NCAP assists with housing, medications, nutrition, emergency
financial assistance and ongoing case management to promote healthy outcomes .
Spanish Speaking Residents
Vida Sana : Uniting for Health Equity for Latinos is a community coalition addressing health disparities
among Hispanic/Latinos and low- income community members in Northern Fort Collins . Availability and
access to healthy food, decent housing, safe workplaces and homes, walkable neighborhoods, reliable
transportation and clean air and water are the foundation of the program . Neighborhood promotoras,
or community health workers, focus in four specific neighborhoods to assess needs, barriers, and desires
for interventions to improve health outcomes . Building trust within the neighborhoods by promoting
the goals identified by local residents is key to the success of the initiative . The program targets
approximately 2, 000 residents in lower income areas, most of whom are Latino and many who only
speak Spanish .
At Risk Youth
Many at- risk youth are involved in , or may become involved , in the court process due to circumstances
of abuse and neglect . Legal advocacy, temporary housing and shelter that provide protection and a
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supportive environment, are important facets of programs designed to help at- risk youth and their
families .
• The Matthews House assists youth between ages 16 and 24 in a variety of areas that include
finding appropriate housing, obtaining health and mental health care, finding employment, and
learning life skills that support successful independent living.
• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Fort Collins is a part of a national network that
provides advocacy for abused and neglected children . CASA has seen recent increases in the
numbers of youth who are aging out of the foster care system and in need of supportive
services .
• Harmony House is a CASA facility that provides a safe place for court ordered and non -court
ordered visitation meetings . The house also operates as a safe exchange site for families and
guardians . . Most CASA clients are in the low- income range, with a variety of housing and
service needs .
• The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) is a part of the National Children ' s Alliance and conducts
forensic interviews after allegations are raised regarding abuse . Information is then provided to
law enforcement and the Department of Human Services for investigative purposes . Non-
offending parents are eligible for counseling and support referrals . The Child Advocacy Center
also provides community prevention education . Like other service agencies, CAC finds
increasing difficulty in assisting families with housing referrals due to high costs and competition
for rental units .
• ChildSafe is a provider of group, one-on -one and family therapy for child victims of sexual
abuse . The Sexual Abuse Treatment program was developed to " repair damage done to young
victims and their family . " The outpatient program services victims ages 2- 18 in a combination of
therapies .
• Poudre School District has several programs for at- risk youth, including the teen pregnancy
program and the Mental Health Team that provides early intervention and crisis intervention .
• Crossroads Safehouse operates a program for at- risk youth designed to increase self-esteem ,
teach alternatives to aggressive behaviors and develop (and practice ) coping and
communication skills .
• La Familia is a bilingual and multicultural family resource center in Fort Collins . It provides early
childhood education and programs which support and strengthen families in underrepresented
communities . Its youth programs include after-school homework assistance, transportation
from school, mentoring support and other social activities . Life- long health and wellness
education is taught to teens and children by partner organizations, families and community
members in the CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health ) Program at La Familia .
• Larimer County Workforce Center provides youth programs designed to connect youth to
employment and training opportunities . High school seniors who live in a low- income
household , have a disability or are in foster care may be eligible for assistance in the transition
from high school to employment, continuing education, internships, scholarships and with job
searches .
• The Larimer County Hub Juvenile Assessment Center provides a single point of entry for youth
services for families and their children throughout the county. This coordinated effort includes
Larimer County Department of Human Services, Mental Health Services and law enforcement .
Intake specialists conduct child protection screening, child and family assessments for at- risk
youth, detention screening, early intervention, and resources and referrals to other entities .
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• Realities for Children is a non - profit organization that provides emergency services,
organizational supports, community education and activities for youth who have experienced
abuse and neglect within Larimer County. Realities for Children works collaboratively with other
organizations and can provide financial assistance on a case- by-case basis for at- risk youth and
families . They were noted by CASA as a resource for a variety of supports for the people they
serve .
• The Center for Family Outreach serves youth and families with substance abuse issues,
disruptive or high risk behaviors and family conflict. The Center operates a diversion program
and interventions programs for youth who have become involved with the justice system .
Counseling and therapy, education programs, tutoring, art enrichment, community service and
substance use monitoring services are provided .
• Touchstone Health Partner's Namaqua Center assists children who have experienced trauma ,
exhibit risky and other behavioral challenges and who have a diagnosed emotional disturbance .
The Family Support Program helps families with behaviorally challenged children . Namaqua
Center provides special supports for grandfamilies (grandparents caring for grandchildren ) with
classes, family events and networking opportunities . It also offers a program to help build skills
in children with severe emotional disturbances who need structure and support during school
holidays . Respite care for families and a mentor program for court-appointment family clients
also are available services at Namaqua Center .
• Community Life Center supports children and families with education , recreation and ongoing
supportive services . It focuses on education and improving student achievement by improving
skills and collaborate with after-school programs designed to enhance support for children .
Program staff help families navigate resources in the community .
• Turning Point for Youth and Family Development provides therapeutic services to youth and
families . They provide individual therapy sessions on an outpatient or inpatient basis,
DUI/ DWAI classes, community courses and educational programs for youth in need of
alternatives to traditional schools . The mission of Turning Point is to help youth find a path to
help motivate them to stay in school and continue on with secondary education .
• Boys and Girls Club in Larimer County has three clubhouses open after school until 7 pm each
day and are open all day during the summer months . Their focus is academic success, character
building and citizenship, and leading a healthy lifestyle .
• Before and After School Enrichment ( B.A.S. E . ) Camp provides out-of-school care, before- and
after school care and summer camps to children throughout the Poudre School District . BASE
Camp serves approximately 3, 000 children ages 3- 14 in 32 elementary schools in the Fort Collins
area . It is estimated that one-third of the children served during the school year come from
lower income families and the majority of children served in the summer months are from low-
income families who cannot affordable other summer programs . Families pay tuition on a
sliding scale .
• The Northside Aztlan Community Center (City of Fort Collins) offers programs for people of all
ages and youth at- risk . The center hosts youth nights which offers social activities, games, food
and other services .
Veterans
Lower income veterans with health , mental health, substance use disorders and/or unstable housing
history often need affordable, supportive housing with case management support to establish benefits,
assist with housing search and establish and maintain housing and health care . The VA Supportive
Housing program (VASH ) was designed to meet this goal , Rocky Mountain Human Services and
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Volunteers of America Northern Colorado each operate a Supportive Services for Veteran Families
( SSVF ) program . The SSVF program provides homelessness prevention and rapid re- housing services,
and supports veterans with VASH vouchers in locating and accessing housing .
Victims of Domestic Violence
Victims of domestic violence need urgent supportive services and resources . Establishing income
support and rapidly obtaining shelter and supportive housing are critical components to avoiding
additional trauma .
• Crossroads Safehouse is Larimer County' s oldest and largest safehouse . It offers an emergency
hotline, transitional housing for up to two years ( utilizing 25 FCHA Section 8 housing vouchers),
counseling services, and emergency foster care for pets owned by safehouse residents .
• The Sexual Assault Victim Advocate Center (SAVA) offers crisis intervention, counseling services
and advocacy. Victims can be referred to Crossroads Safehouse, however, SAVA and other
providers continue to find a lack of adequate referral options to affordable housing and mental
health care for the people it serves .
Describe programs for ensuring that persons returning from mental and physical health
institutions receive appropriate supportive housing.
The City of Fort Collins, its community housing and service providers, and the homelessness intervention
advocacy community, recognize the importance of discharge planning within community institutions to
prevent long term or episodic homelessness . Direct partners in addressing this issue include the Larimer
County Detention Center, Poudre Valley Hospital and the Larimer County Foster Care System ,
Touchstone Health Partners (formerly Larimer Center for Mental Health ) , the Fort Collins Housing
Authority and others . An increased focus on preventing homelessness post-discharge at the state and
federal level has helped increase awareness of this issue . Homeward 2020' s Ten Year Plan to Make
Homelessness Rare, Short- Lived and Non - Recurring has highlighted the need for these efforts and
helped coordinate key agencies to identify and address contributing factors and solutions .
Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address
the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91 . 215 (e ) with
respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs . Link to one-year
goals . 91 . 315 ( e) .
The City of Fort Collins will support persons with special needs through funding many public service
applications with CDBG and other funds, and the development and revitalization of rental units targeted
to low income households . The City of Fort Collins uses up to 15% of its CDBG allocation to fund Public
Service activities annually, and in the next year, plans to support agencies serving persons : with mental
health issues; underserved youth ; abused and neglected youth ; seniors; victims of domestic violence
and sexual assault; persons with physical and cognitive disabilities; single parents; and persons with
substance abuse issues . Funding support will assist with agency operations, staffing, staff training,
programmatic costs, and materials needed to deliver service . The City accepts applications annually
each spring, and will determine grantees and funding awards in May of 2015 .
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MA40 Barriers to Affordable Housing — 91 . 210 ( e )
Negative Effects of Public Policies on Affordable Housing and Residential Investment
The City of Fort Collins is undergoing increased pressures from new population growth and the resultant
need to expand the housing inventory, as well as commercial and service businesses, to serve the
growing population . Fort Collins is also home to Colorado State University, which has a population of
over 25, 000 on -campus, resident-instruction students . The demand for student housing also serves to
keep the availability of rental housing tight for the community at large .
Fort Collins has implemented a number of policies and practices to encourage the development of
affordable housing in a tight housing market . Some of those policies include expedited processing of
affordable housing development review applications; residential density bonuses in certain zone
districts; reduced landscape sizing requirements; fee waivers and deferrals for targeted affordable
housing projects; and a City-funded Affordable Housing Fund, which can assist with financial support to
offset various fees and exactions that new development must pay under existing City laws and
regulations relating to new development . Because of the Tax Payer Bill of Rights Amendment (TABOR),
the City operates its utility service departments as enterprises, which means that if new water or sewer
services are requested, the cost of those services — including plant investment fees and other capital
expenditures — must be covered by revenues earned by the enterprise fund . In July of 2014, Duncan and
Associates produced an Impact Fee Survey for the City of Greeley that included fees from several
communities in Larimer County. Those communities were Fort Collins, Loveland and the unincorporated
areas of Larimer County. The findings of the survey indicate the policies which define the level of impact
and service fees for utilities in Fort Collins are in the lower tier of those charged by other Weld , Boulder
and Larimer municipalities . The Housing Affordability Policy Study also questioned whether the City
could adopt more equitable plan review, building permit, and capital expansion fees if the fees were
proportionally based . This would mean that smaller homes would pay a proportionally lower fee
because it would take less time to conduct reviews, and the impact of a smaller home on utility facilities
is proportionately less than the impact of larger homes .
Various Public Participation forums yielded comments that the perception is the planning and
development review process is challenging for developers . However, in comparing policies, procedures
and requirements with other northern Front Range municipalities, the review process does not appear
to be as onerous as described by community stakeholders . One of the challenges in working a project
through the development review process is that applicants often don 't provide the full depth of
information and disclosure that allow planners and reviewers to approve or disapprove a development
proposal in a timely manner, and it is often necessary to ask applicants to submit updated information
and complete information on details covered by the regulations . The City has policies in place that
provide certain incentives and regulatory concessions for affordable housing projects, including density
bonuses and additional building height limits, in certain zone areas . As the development pipeline in the
City continues to lengthen, those advantages to affordable housing projects will continue to assist
affordable developers to keep the transaction and carrying costs of their projects lower than in some
other communities .
Fort Collins has adopted an occupancy regulation that stipulates the number of unrelated persons who
may live in a residential unit . This law is known as the " U Plus 2" Ordinance . The law prescribes that, in
certain areas of the City, a family of any size, plus one additional person, or two adults plus their
dependents and one additional person, can occupy a residential dwelling unit . This Ordinance was
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adopted by the City Council in order to mitigate some of the negative impacts of having multiple people
living in residential neighborhoods . The problem of having large groups of persons living in traditionally
single family homes in established neighborhoods is more acute in neighborhoods closer to CSU .
The City has created a policy to allow for higher occupancy rental housing in certain designated zoning
districts . Extra Occupancy Rental Houses are allowed in the LMN , MMN, HMN , NCB, D, RDR, CC, CCN ,
CCR, C, CN , NC, CL, E. and I zoning districts . Those districts are outlined in the map below . The areas in
red indicate zones in which different occupancy standards may apply. Some stakeholders in the Public
Participation process indicated they feel the occupancy restrictions have impacted the housing demand
by having fewer occupants per home . That is a difficult proposition to validate . Common sense says
that if the number of people allowed to live in a house is limited , then demand will increase . Once the
limit is reached on an individual dwelling unit, those not included will have to seek another unit that
would allow them to stay under the limit . However, it is difficult to quantify the impact on vacancy or
occupancy statistics because there are other areas of the City which allow for higher occupancy in a
single residential unit . It is also important to acknowledge that the ordinance exempts most family
arrangements from compliance so that larger families, as long as they meet the definitions contained in
the ordinance, are exempted . In the map below, the red highlighted areas indicate the Designated Extra
Occupancy Rental Zones .
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CITY OF FORT COLLINS
DESIGNATED EXTRA OCCUPANCY RENTAL ZONES
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Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 102
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MA45 Non - Housing Community Development Assets — 91 . 215 (f)
Introduction
The US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS ) produces data that makes it possible to estimate labor force dynamics for the City of
Fort Collins . HUD provides this information for the year 2011 . While more recent employment data is available for Fort Collins, the HUD-
provided data does show the unemployment rate for younger Fort Collins residents is much higher than the rate for those age 25 and older. This
analysis has most likely included many CSU students who are not employed .
More current information from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment is available for the Fort Collins/Loveland MSA . In December
of 2014, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the MSA was 3 . 3% . There were 186, 778 persons in the labor force, 180, 570 of whom
were employed , and 6, 208 who were unemployed . The rate is lower than throughout Colorado, which had a 4. 0% unemployment rate in
December of 2014 . The labor force in Fort Collins grew from 2000-2013, according to the American Community Survey . Total employed
persons grew by 13, 615, or 20 . 7%, and the unemployed grew by 3, 032, or 84 . 0% .
Economic Development Market Analysis
The following table, provided by HUD, shows the number of workers in Fort Collins in 2011 by business sector, the number of jobs by business
sector, the share of total workers, share of total jobs, and the percentage of jobs less percentage of workers . The table indicates the share of
jobs and share of workers in Fort Collins are well aligned , with little variance between the two . The information is provided for 13 business
defined sectors, using ESRI Business Analyst Package and American Community Survey data .
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Business Activity
Business by Sector Number of Number of Jobs Share of Workers Share of Jobs Jobs less workers
Workers % % %
Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas Extraction 643 273 1 1 - 1
Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations 71653 8,839 15 16 1
Construction 21545 21014 5 4 - 1
Education and Health Care Services 91184 131010 18 24 6
Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 21955 3, 109 6 6 0
Information 11280 11053 3 2 - 1
Manufacturing 41858 41655 10 9 - 1
Other Services 11905 21080 4 4 0
Professional, Scientific, Management Services 61064 71534 12 14 2
Public Administration 0 0 0 0 0
Retail Trade 61484 71459 13 14 1
Transportation and Warehousing 957 393 2 1 - 1
Wholesale Trade 11800 11122 4 2 -2
Total 46, 328 51, 541 -- -- --
Table 39-Business Activity
Data Source : 2007-2011 ACS (Workers), 2011 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (Jobs)
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Labor Force
Total Population in the Civilian Labor Force 831198
Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 761561
Unemployment Rate 7 . 98
Unemployment Rate for Ages 16-24 26 . 88
Unemployment Rate for Ages 25-65 4 . 57
Table 40-Labor Force
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
HUD also provides the number of people employed in various occupations by business sector for 2011 .
American Community Survey data for 2011 - 2013 shows the largest employment industries in Fort
Collins are educational services, health care and social assistance, retail trade, professional , scientific,
and technical services, and retail trade .
Occupations by Sector Number of People
Management, business and financial 231818
Farming, fisheries and forestry occupations 21572
Service 81031
Sales and office 171244
Construction , extraction, maintenance and
repair 41501
Production , transportation and material moving 21902
Table 41—Occupations by Sector
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
The City of Fort Collins Economic Health Office recently commissioned a report, titled Labor Market
Profile . The report includes an analysis of the occupations with the largest number of employees in
Larimer County and the fastest growing occupations, and provides the median hourly earnings for these
occupations . The following charts come from this report .
Currently, the top four occupations in Larimer County employ over 19, 000 persons, and pay no more
than a median hourly earnings of $ 15 . 38 per hour. A $ 10/hour employee working full time can only
afford to pay $ 520 per month for housing, much lower than prevailing rents in Fort Collins .
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Top Occupations in Larimer County
l.ir' jLLUkA1jL)NJ iN LANWiLrt LUUNi Y
Rank LARGEST, 2013 Median houdy eamingi
1 Re►oil Soles persons $10.42
2 5Iwl Food Prep & Serving $8 . 76
3 4,8 Secretaries & Administrative Assistants $15. 38
4 3,5 Waiters & Waitresses $8 , 89
5 3,3 Postseconda Teacners $28.01
e 3,0 Cashiers $9 . 23
7 2,8 Registered Nurses $29.07
rl 2,7 janitors & Cleaners $ 10. 75
9 2,6 Office Clerks r General $13 .51
to IM Bookkeeping , Accounting , & Auditing Clerks $ 15,46
The report notes that Fort Collins has a higher percentage of adults with a college education than jobs
that need this education level . As a result, there is a disconnect between the highly educated
employment base and the jobs currently being created .
Fastest Growing Occupations in Larimer County
Rank Annual Openings FASTEST •GROWING 2013 . 2018 # Median hour earnings
t +32Vee,,
& Serving $8 . 16
2 +29Salespersons $ 10.42
3 +23 Waitresses 8 . 89
a +20d Nurses s29,07
5 + 18 9 . 23
6 + 12s & AdministrOve Assistants $ 15. 38
+ 12 Customer Service Representatives 13 . 80
e tl Postsecondary Teacners $28,01
9 _ Utoe
rs & Cleaners 10. 15
to Clerks, General $ 13 . 51
Most Fort Collins residents commute less than 30 minutes to work each day. The City of Fort Collins
Housing Affordability Policy Study analyzes commuting data from 2000-2011 . During this time period,
out-commuting remained relatively flat, while the number of in -commuters increased by more than
9, 400 . From the surrounding communities, in -commuting increased by approximately 5, 000 jobs . Of
these, nearly 87% commute in from Greeley, Loveland, Wellington , and Windsor . While lifestyle
preference can be one reason for the increase in in -commuters, Realtors and other key informants
interviewed during the preparation of the Consolidated Plan indicate that households are getting priced
out of the Fort Collins housing market and many are choosing to live in less costly housing markets and
commuting into Fort Collins for work.
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Travel Time
Travel Time Number Percentage
< 30 Minutes 58,085 82%
30-59 Minutes 81628 12%
60 or More Minutes 31740 5%
Total 70,453 1000/0
Table 42-Travel Time
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
CHAS data from 2011 shows there were over 8, 000 persons in the Fort Collins labor force with a high
school degree or less . For those with only a high school education , the unemployment rate of 9 % was
over twice the rate for those with a college education . Job training and placement programs for these
residents could reduce the unemployment rate for less educated workers .
Education
Educational Attainment by Employment Status ( Population 16 and Older)
Educational Attainment In Labor Force
Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force
Less than high school graduate 11682 274 928
High school graduate ( includes
equivalency) 61324 584 1, 827
Some college or Associate 's degree 151589 11080 41080
Bachelor's degree or higher 311509 11277 51033
Table 43-Educational Attainment by Employment Status
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
Many of the residents without a high school diploma are older than 24-years-old , and have limited job
options that will pay a living wage . Job training programs must target residents in all age groups .
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Educational Attainment by Age
Age
18-24 yrs 25-34 yrs 35-44 yrs 45-65 yrs 65+ yrs
Less than 9th grade 25 386 183 233 441
9th to 12th grade, no diploma 11228 798 415 869 543
High school graduate, GED, or
alternative 51320 21880 11766 41115 31107
Some college, no degree 191362 41514 3, 641 6591 2, 728
Associate ' s degree 11241 11888 11790 21385 619
Bachelor' s degree 31696 91268 5522 8, 473 2, 377
Graduate or professional degree 373 31578 4, 296 61773 21008
Table 44- Educational Attainment by Age
Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS
It is not surprising CHAS data finds that residents with the most education also earn the most in Fort
Collins . Residents with some college or an Associate' s Degree had a median income in 2011 that was
twice that of persons with less than a high school diploma .
Educational Attainment— Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months
Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months
Less than high school graduate 151303
High school graduate ( includes equivalency) 251876
Some college or Associate ' s degree 301071
Bachelor' s degree 401097
Graduate or professional degree 521804
Table 45—Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months
Data Source : 2007-2011 ACS
Based on the Business Activity table above, what are the major employment sectors within
your jurisdiction ?
The top employment sectors are education and health care services, arts, entertainment and
accommodations, and professional , scientific, and management services . According to the Larimer
Count Labor Market Profile, "the fastest growing industries are service industries that support the
population ( retail , restaurants, hospitality, and personal services ) . The occupations that are related to
these services are relatively low paying — retail salespeople, food prep, waiters, cashiers, and janitors . "
Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community.
The recently completed Labor Market Profile identified 29 occupations that are currently likely to be
hard to fill , based upon rapidly rising demand and/or higher than expected wages . These are also areas
where there are national shortages in the labor force, and include : sales representatives, IT staff, skilled
trade ( i . e . welders ), mechanics, and managers . The authors also conducted an analysis of four primary
private sector industries ( manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and software development, research and
development, and engineering ), and concluded there could be better alignment between the education
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 108
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and training infrastructure in Fort Collins and the needs of the region ' s employers . Many professional
and technical workers — as well as skilled labor— are being recruited from outside Larimer County. Most
of the Colorado State University students that graduate each year are not choosing fields of study
related to the occupations most critical to the region ' s key industries . The study concludes that a better
alignment of the skills of the region ' s graduates and the needs of the region ' s employers could improve
the staffing environment for the region' s employers and facilitate retention of the region ' s graduates .
Describe any major changes that may have an economic impact, such as planned local or
regional public or private sector investments or initiatives that have affected or may affect
job and business growth opportunities during the planning period . Describe any needs for
workforce development, business support or infrastructure these changes may create .
The City has worked with a broad range of stakeholder groups to update its Economic Health Strategic
Plan . The changes in the new plan reflect changes that have taken place in the Fort Collins economy as
well as change at the national level . The division of the Hewlett- Packard Corporation into two new
operating entities will cause an increase in employment between the two large employers . Woodward
has made a decision to place its world headquarters in Fort Collins, which will also increase employment
in Larimer County. Other large national employers will continue to expand their labor forces in Larimer
County at modest rates . The Economic Health Strategic Plan is closely tied with the Social Sustainability
Strategic Plan . The Economic Health Plan emphasizes five major themes, which all will have an impact
on job and business growth, as well as on lower income residents seeking higher paid jobs . Those
themes include : Community Prosperity, Grow Your Own , Place Matters, Climate Change Economy and
Thinking Regionally. The Economic Health Strategic Plan places emphasis on using both local and federal
Resources, including CDBG funds, to expand training and employment opportunities for Fort Collins
residents . The effort will focus on cluster industries that have an anchor in Fort Collins . The industries
are targeted to include : Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Creative Industry sectors .
In order to achieve a vision of community prosperity, the City's Economic Health Strategic Plan will emphasize
training for all spectrums of skill/income levels, including low-income residents, to qualify for higher level jobs
and then focus on career advancement so those workers will have the necessary tools to advance in those
cluster industries. For instance, a resident may obtain training and employment in nursing. Once employment
is achieved, the worker may continue to receive training and support to advance to otherjobs within the
industrial cluster. For a nursing assistant, that might mean obtaining training and experience in order to
qualify for a job as a radiation technologist.
How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment
opportunities in the jurisdiction ?
The Labor Market Profile report notes the regional workforce is over-qualified for the needs of these
industries . Fort Collins has such a high quality of life that overqualified residents are willing to take jobs
that require low skills to live in the City .
Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce
Investment Boards, community colleges and other organizations . Describe how these efforts
will support the jurisdiction ' s Consolidated Plan .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 109
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The Larimer County Workforce Investment Board (WIB ) aligns it efforts in the City with the plans and
objectives adopted by the City. A major City priority is to align potential employees with the training
needs demanded by local businesses in order to expand their operations . Community prosperity is the
prime objective of both the Economic Health Strategic Plan and the Social Sustainability Strategic Plan .
The Workforce Investment Board works closely with the City to ensure its programs support increasing
employment and the quality of jobs through targeted training to low- income residents so that residents
can find good employment by having skills and training needed by Fort Collins businesses .
Does your jurisdiction participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
( CEDS) ?
Currently Fort Collins does not participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy with
other regional jurisdictions .
If so, what economic development initiatives are you undertaking that may be coordinated
with the Consolidated Plan ? If not, describe other local/regional plans or initiatives that
impact economic growth .
The City of Fort Collins has invested substantial time and effort in formulating a comprehensive strategy
that links housing with jobs, transit and social sustainability . This holistic approach addresses all the
needs and gaps faced by low- income households in the community. These other planning efforts have
been used extensively in formulating the Consolidated Plan . The City, through various plans and policy
statements, has focused on integrating transit needs, housing needs, job training and employment
needs and social support as a way of ensuring growing businesses have a supply of trained, qualified
employees . As employment continues to expand, the City is planning for ensuring employees have an
adequate supply of housing located close to public transit . The City has invested substantial funding in
expanding its bus system to serve larger areas of the community. This transit expansion is planned to
continue in the future with more feeder lines to serve residential neighborhoods that currently don't
have close transit connections to the main bus routes running along major thoroughfares . In order for
low- income families to access growing employment and training opportunities, the City' s Social
Sustainability Strategic Plan also identifies expanded, affordable, licensed childcare facilities as a critical
component of promoting greater economic opportunity for low-income residents .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 110
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MAm50 Needs and Market Analysis Discussion
Are there areas where households with multiple housing problems are concentrated ( include
a definition of " concentration " ) ?
HUD provides maps of various CHAS data elements, including concentrations of households with any of
the four housing problems . According to CPD Maps, there are no areas of Fort Collins where households
have concentrations of multiple housing problems . No areas have more than 8% overcrowded
households, no areas have more than 12% households with substandard conditions, and no areas have
over 47% severe cost burden . There are 13 census tracts where more than 50% of households pay more
than 50% of their income for housing . The following map shows these areas .
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Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 111
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The following chart lists these census tracts, and the percent of residents in the tracts paying more than
30% of their income for housing :
Tract
Number Percentage
8069000600 68 . 77%
8069000504 62 . 78%
8069001306 59 . 77%
8069000100 52 . 14%
8069000503 66 . 18%
8069001110 53 . 5%
8069000505 64 .96%
8069000201 60 .55%
8069000401 50 .93%
8069000300 51 . 77%
8069001111 54 .28%
8069001601 100%
8069000901 1 51 .01 %
Are there any areas in the jurisdiction where racial or ethnic minorities or low- income
families are concentrated ( include a definition of " concentration " ) ?
There are no census tracts with 51 % or more racial or ethnic minority or low- income families in Fort
Collins . One census tract has between 50-51 % Hispanic households . Census tract 8069001306 has
50 . 91 % Hispanic households . The tract is in northeastern Fort Collins .
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There are no census tracts with concentrations of 51 % or more extremely low- income households with
incomes at 30% AMI or less . There are census tracts with concentrations of 51 % or more residents with
incomes at 50% AMI or less . Three of these tracts are at or adjacent to Colorado State University and are
home to students . Three others, however, are in northern and northeastern Fort Collins, and include
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 112
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the same census tract that is just over 50% Hispanic . These areas are known as low-income
neighborhoods, have many trailer parks and lower rent units, and are areas that the City is studying for
revitalization .
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Including One Census tract with More than 50% Hispanic Population
What are the characteristics of the market in these areas/neighborhoods?
According to CPD Maps, the three northern census tracts have over 50% renter occupancy, rising and
higher poverty rates than throughout most of the City, rising rents, and high incidences of cost burden .
Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods ?
The three northern census tracts do have some of the cheaper, older owner and rental housing in the
City. That is partially why there are higher numbers of low-income households in those neighborhoods .
These neighborhoods also have a portion of residents who have long tenure in the neighborhood, which
adds stability for newer residents trying to build a sense of community in the neighborhood .
Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas?
The Northeast quadrant of the City contains green field land that will eventually attract new
development once infrastructure expansions commence .
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Strategic Plan
SM5 Overview
Strategic Plan Overview
The Fort Collins Strategic Plan identifies the priority needs in the City, and describes strategies the City
will undertake to serve the priority needs . The sections of the Strategic Plan include : Geographic
Priorities; Priority Needs; Influence of Market Conditions; Anticipated Resources; Institutional Delivery
System ; Goals; Public Housing; Barriers to Affordable Housing; Homeless Strategy; Lead Based Paint
Hazards; and an Anti - Poverty Strategy .
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SP- 10 Geographic Priorities — 91 . 215 ( a ) ( 1 )
Geographic Area
Table 46 - Geographic Priority Areas
General Allocation Priorities
Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdiction ( or within the EMSA
for HOPWA) .
The City of Fort Collins does not target funding or programs to specific geographies within the
City. Funds are allocated based upon need priorities and goals .
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SP = 25 Priority Needs - 91 . 215 ( a ) ( 2 )
Priority Needs
Table 47 — Priority Needs Summary
1 Priority Need Increase the supply of affordable housing, including rental and homeownership
Name units
Priority Level High
Population Extremely Low
Low
Large Families
Families with Children
Elderly
Chronic Homelessness
Individuals
Families with Children
Mentally III
Chronic Substance Abuse
Veterans
Victims of Domestic Violence
Unaccompanied Youth
Elderly
Frail Elderly
Persons with Mental Disabilities
Persons with Physical Disabilities
Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions
Victims of Domestic Violence
Geographic
Areas
Affected
Associated Increase the supply of affordable rental housing
Goals Provide assistance for programs that support affordable homeownership
Increase housing opportunities for persons experiencing homelessness
Preserve existing affordable housing inventory
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Description Increase the supply of affordable, accessible, visitable rental housing that is close to
transit options and basic daily services . This goal includes affordable rental and
homeownership options across the spectrum, with responsiveness to special
populations and critical gaps of need . As one of the sub-sets, housing opportunities
for persons who experiencing homelessness or who are at increased risk of
homelessness are deficient. In order to assist residents to overcome the threat of
homelessness, permanent affordable rental housing with the necessary supportive
services needs to be added to the Fort Collins affordable housing
inventory. Persons across the entire spectrum of housing need from emergency to
transitional to permanent are not able to find adequate housing with services .
Basis for Based on the market analysis and the needs analysis research and data prepared
Relative for the Consolidated Plan there is a shortage of affordable rental housing for the
Priority populations listed above . The City has conducted a number of surveys and studies
to determine which needs are the most pressing for the low- income population in
the community. The City will always consider special populations a high priority.
Individuals and families experiencing homelessness represent the worst case
housing needs . Based on the data presented in the Needs Analysis Section of the
Consolidated Plan, service provider data and the Point in Time Count, the present
supportive and emergency housing supply is not adequate to serve all who find
themselves experiencing homelessness or in danger of homelessness .
2 Priority Need Expand housing opportunities for persons experiencing homelessness
Name
Priority Level High
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Population Extremely Low
Low
Individuals
Families with Children
Mentally III
Chronic Substance Abuse
Veterans
Victims of Domestic Violence
Unaccompanied Youth
Geographic
Areas
Affected
Associated Increase the supply of affordable rental housing
Goals Increase housing opportunities for persons experiencing homelessness
Preserve existing affordable housing inventory
Supportive services to improve living conditions
Description The City has assembled data on the needs of individuals and families experiencing
homelessness in Fort Collins . The City and its partners in the Ten Year Plan to End
Homelessness Consortium, Homeward 2020, have come together to build a supply
of units than can be available with lower rents and also to package services to
ensure that households experiencing homelessness have the chance to live in
stable housing in the long term in order to become more self-sufficient.
Basis for Individuals and families experiencing homelessness represent the " worst case "
Relative housing needs in the City . The many negative effects on persons and families who
Priority are living in substandard housing situations make it incumbent on the community
to address those needs as comprehensively as possible .
3 Priority Need Expand community resources for homelessness prevention
Name
Priority Level High
Population Extremely Low
Low
Individuals
Families with Children
Chronic Substance Abuse
Veterans
Victims of Domestic Violence
Unaccompanied Youth
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Geographic
Areas
Affected
Associated Increase the supply of affordable rental housing
Goals Provide programs for homelessness prevention
Preserve existing affordable housing inventory
Supportive services to improve living conditions
Description The tight housing market in Fort Collins puts pressure on households with
economic, medical and other challenges to maintain a stable living environment.
The most cost effective alternative to having people living on the street is to assist
them in maintaining their current housing . In order to decrease the number of
homeless episodes residents endure, programs, direct financial assistance and rapid
rehousing prevents those households from facing life on the streets . Payment of
rent and utility arrearages, case management and Tenant Based Rental Assistance
are programs the City will use to assist homeless prevention agencies in
maintaining stable housing conditions for households that would otherwise end up
on the streets .
Basis for Because there are so many people who are in danger of losing their stable housing,
Relative it is imperative the City devote some of its federal and local resources to programs
Priority and actions that will assist households impacted by the tight housing market from
entering the ranks of homelessness and being forced to rely on the emergency
shelter system .
4 Priority Need Preserve existing affordable housing
Name
Priority Level High
Population Extremely Low
Low
Moderate
Large Families
Families with Children
Elderly
Geographic
Areas
Affected
Associated Preserve existing affordable housing inventory
Goals
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Description While there is substantial need for new affordable rental housing, the most cost-
effective way of providing affordable housing is to preserve the existing supply of
both owner housing and rental housing. There is a substantial number of owner-
occupied homes that are aging and in need of improvements in order to keep them
a viable part of the affordable housing inventory. In addition, there are a number
of aging rental housing properties that are in need of substantial improvements
including health and safety improvements in order to keep them a viable part of the
affordable housing stock . The Needs Assessment and Market Analysis sections of
the Consolidated Plan enumerate the number of units needed and the number of
both owners and renters who are cost burdened . The City also has formulated a
plan for preserving existing mobile home parks in the event that redevelopment
may occur on one of the mobile home park sites . Its Redevelopment Displacement
Mitigation Strategies Plan outlines steps and assistance the City may take to assist
owners and occupants in preserving the affordability of their domicile . Those steps
may include relocation expenses, cash out of pre- HUD codes units and the possible
acquisition of the park for conversion to a co-op or other non - profit
ownership . The City would utilize CDBG and HOME funds as cost eligibility could be
determined .
Basis for A more cost effective alternative is to provide limited dollars to repair and upgrade
Relative existing housing than to demolish older housing and replace it with new housing
Priority that is substantially more expensive to provide .
5 Priority Need Greater access to supportive services
Name
Priority Level High
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 120
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Population Extremely Low
Low
Large Families
Families with Children
Elderly
Chronic Homelessness
Individuals
Families with Children
Veterans
Victims of Domestic Violence
Public Housing Residents
Unaccompanied Youth
Elderly
Frail Elderly
Persons with Mental Disabilities
Persons with Physical Disabilities
Persons with Developmental Disabilities
Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions
Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families
Other
Geographic
Areas
Affected
Associated Provide programs for homelessness prevention
Goals Supportive services to improve living conditions
Description The challenges of poverty force reliance on City and community support systems in
order for low- income households to maintain a level of independence . Access to
mental health and medical services, childcare, services for youth in and out of the
foster care system, services for elderly and disabled residents assist in making the
community a better place to live . The City of Fort Collins will continue to support
the many agencies and organizations that provide essential public and community
services to the populations most in need .
Basis for Through the research and analysis in the Needs Assessment section and the
Relative Market Analysis section of this Consolidated Plan and the findings of the Social
Priority Sustainability Gaps Analysis, the City has made a commitment to addressing the
underserved needs in the community. The vision of the Social Sustainability
Strategic Plan is for the City of Fort Collins to help build a healthy social system so
all members of the community can thrive . The services provided to low- income
populations by community partners are essential to improving living conditions for
low- income households .
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Narrative (Optional )
The high priority needs include both housing and non - housing community development, homeless and
special population needs . The City of Fort Collins has developed and managed a robust Citizen
Participation process to solicit resident input on priority needs . The City has integrated that Citizen
Participation process with several substantial research efforts to acquire hard data on the scope of those
needs . The Economic Health Strategic Plan, the Social Sustainability Strategic Plan , the Social
Sustainability Gaps Analysis and the Housing Affordability Policy Study all provide data and
recommendations for City actions to address the needs of both affordable housing and non - housing
community development needs . These various findings have been incorporated into the analysis in
both the Needs Analysis and Market Assessment sections of the Consolidated Plan . This compilation has
been used to frame the various responses and proposed priorities and actions in both the Strategic Plan
Section and will also be used to structure the Annual Action Plan .
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SP-30 Influence of Market Conditions — 91 . 215 ( b )
Influence of Market Conditions
Affordable Market Characteristics that will influence
Housing Type the use of funds available for housing type
Tenant Based The City of Fort Collins may spend HOME funds on Tenant Based Rental Assistance
Rental Assistance (TBRA) as part of a strategy to serve low- and very- low- income renter households
(TBRA) facing homelessness . Low vacancy rates ( 1 . 2% overall ) , rising rents ( 28% growth
during the last three years ), and long waiting lists for subsidized housing all point
to the need for more affordable rental opportunities in the City, especially for the
lowest income households . There are fewer transitional housing options in Fort
Collins than units needed, and TBRA programs can also help households transition
from homelessness to permanent housing.
TBRA for Non - According to special needs providers interviewed as part of the consultation
Homeless Special process, there is a lack of rental assistance available for their clients who have
Needs very low and low- incomes . Existing rental assistance programs are not growing,
or are shrinking due to reduced federal spending levels . Market pressures on the
private rental market have raised rents and reduced inventory, making it more
difficult for these households to find rental units they can afford . TBRA could be
used to help clients of local housing agencies find affordable, decent, and
accessible housing while on the waiting list for existing Section 8 and other rental
assistance programs .
New Unit As part of the Housing Needs Assessment section of the Consolidated Plan , it was
Production determined that there is a gap of 6, 628 rental units for households at 0-30% AMI ,
702 for households at 31-50% AMI , 436 at 51 -80% AMI , and 1, 906 at 81 - 100% AMI
in Fort Collins . New construction of affordable rental units is a goal for reducing
these gaps . The Needs Assessment also determined the stock of affordable units
for sale is slim, and households at 50-80% AMI could become owners through a
self- help program such as Habitat for Humanity, or through construction of units
priced at $ 204, 500 or less .
Rehabilitation Just over 40% of all housing units in Fort Collins, or an estimated 19, 068 total
units, were built before 1980 . Units built in or before the 1980s may be in need of
rehabilitation , especially those units built over 40 or 50 years ago . Housing
providers indicate that there are a significant number of older market rate rental
properties that are in need of repair and upgrades in Fort Collins . Older units
occupied by low and moderate income owners may benefit from the Larimer
County Home Improvement housing rehabilitation program .
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Affordable Market Characteristics that will influence
Housing Type the use of funds available for housing type
Acquisition , There are a number of aging rental properties located in Fort Collins in need of
including major upgrades and rehabilitation . Market conditions are such that landlords are
preservation not willing to leave units vacant in order to perform costly and time consuming
rehabilitation on them . Rental housing demand is so strong that landlords can
rent units that are minimally acceptable . There are opportunities for affordable
housing providers and special needs housing groups to acquire these properties
and rehabilitate them for their clients . This is a cost effective approach for
providing more affordable, decent rental units .
Table 48—Influence of Market Conditions
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SP-35 Anticipated Resources - 91 . 215 ( a ) (4 ) , 91 . 220 ( c ) ( 1, 2 )
Introduction
The City' s goal in allocating funding is to enhance the community' s sustainability by addressing needs among our citizens who are income-
challenged . Stabilized families and individuals increase neighborhood quality. That, in turn, leads to a healthier, more vibrant Fort Collins . Once a
year in spring, through the Competitive Process, the City of Fort Collins allocates federal and local funds for eligible affordable housing,
community development, human services, and related activities . The provision for an optional fall Competitive Process accommodates any
unspent or " recycled" funds .
The three proposal categories are :
Housing : Acquisition and construction of affordable housing projects, including land purchase, housing rehabilitation , certain "soft" costs related
to affordable housing development, and homebuyer assistance programs are priorities . Properties must be located in Fort Collins .
Public Service : Non - profit agencies serving a majority of people ( 51% or more ) whose income is 80% or below the Area Median Income (AMI )
and living in the City of Fort Collins .
Public Facility: Space for agencies that provide direct services to low- and moderate- income clients living in Fort Collins .
Funds are allocated to non - profit agencies, affordable housing providers, and other entities serving a majority of Fort Collins clients who are low-
and moderate-income households .
Federal dollars leverage additional funds in many of the projects completed as part of the Consolidated Plan . Federal dollars are limited , and
agencies completing projects will often utilize other funds to complete projects . The leveraged dollars represent a benefit to all Fort Collins
residents . They stretch the grant funds received by the City while allowing projects to proceed, which benefits either the area or a specific
clientele and at the same time aids the agencies supplying the leveraged funds in meeting their goals . Two local funds leverage the federal CDBG
and HOME funds —the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF ) and the Human Services Program ( HSP ) monies from the City' s General Fund . Amounts
available vary with budget cycles and economic conditions .
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Anticipated Resources
Program Source Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Narrative Description
of Annual Program Prior Year Total : Amount
Funds Allocation : Income : Resources : $ Available
$ $ $ Reminder
of ConPlan
CDBG public - *Acquisition For CDBG, proposals must meet one of the
federal *Admin and three national objectives : 1 ) benefit low- and
Planning moderate- income persons; 2 ) aid in the
* Economic prevention or elimination of slums or blight,
Development and/or; 3 ) meet community development
* Housing needs having a particular urgency . Fort
* Public Collins funds public service, housing, and
Facilities public facilities activities with CDBG monies .
* Public Services 951/ 389 821803 981936 9511389 3/ 805/ 556
HOME public - *Acquisition Acquisition and construction of affordable
federal * Homebuyer housing projects, including land purchase,
Assistance housing rehabilitation , certain costs related
* Homeowner to affordable housing development, and
Rehab homebuyer assistance programs are
* Multifamily priorities for HOME program expenditures .
Rental - New
Construction
* Multifamily
Rental- Rehab
* New
Construction
for Ownership
*TBRA 5191485 3421524 0 5191485 2/ 077/ 940
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Program Source Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Narrative Description
of Annual Program Prior Year Total : Amount
Funds Allocation : Income : Resources : $ Available
$ $ $ Reminder
of ConPlan
Other public - *Acquisition The Fort Collins Affordable Housing Fund is a
local * Homebuyer set aside of general fund monies that can be
Assistance used for affordable housing programs and
* Homeowner projects within the City of Fort Collins .
Rehab
* Housing
* Multifamily
Rental- New
Construction
* Multifamily
Rental- Rehab
* New
Construction
for Ownership 5251047 0 0 0 2/ 000/ 000
Other public - Human Services Program funds are used to
local support priority human services needs in Fort
Public Services 6441120 0 0 0 2/400/ 000 Collins .
Table 49-Anticipated Resources
Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources ( private, state and local funds), including a description of how
matching requirements will be satisfied .
HOME and CDBG funds are leveraged in Fort Collins with the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF ) and the Human Services Program ( HSP )
monies . Applicants also leverage CDBG and HOME funds with many other local, state, and federal sources . Sources of leverage include debt,
Low-income Housing Tax Credits, State of Colorado HOME funds and State Housing Development Grant funds, Federal Home Loan Bank Board
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funding ( FHLBB ) grants, United Way funding, other foundation and donation funding . By encouraging applicants to leverage CDBG and HOME
funds with as many other sources as possible, the City is able to provide funding to projects serving more residents of Fort Collins .
Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department staff track all HOME eligible match funds to ensure the 25 % match requirement is met .
If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs
identified in the plan
The City of Fort Collins has a land bank that may be used to address affordable housing needs . The Affordable Housing Board and Social
Sustainability Department staff review the need for public land that can be used to develop affordable housing and the potential of using City
owned land for housing development . A recommended action in the Housing Affordability Policy Study is to use the City' s land bank resource as
a way of making those land holdings available for development of affordable rental- or owner-occupied housing . After the recent completion of
updated appraisals, analysis is underway as to best and highest use options and strategies for the properties . Using them to build affordable
housing units on -site or selling them to provide funding for affordable units elsewhere are among some of the considerations .
Discussion
Staff, the CDBG Commission , and the Affordable Housing Board ( housing applications ) review all funding proposals . Applicants are invited to
make a presentation about their project to the CDBG Commission . Funding recommendations are made and provided to the City Council,
which holds a public hearing to make final funding allocation decisions . Staff then works with grantees on additional due diligence items and
contract execution .
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SP40 Institutional Delivery Structure — 91 . 215 ( k)
Explain the institutional structure through which the jurisdiction will carry out its consolidated plan
including private industry, non - profit organizations, and public institutions .
Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Role Geographic Area Served
Type
Fort Collins Housing Non - profit Homelessness Jurisdiction
Corporation organizations Public Housing
Rental
Fort Collins Housing PHA Homelessness Jurisdiction
Authority Public Housing
Rental
Fort Collins Habitat for Community/ Faith - Ownership Region
Humanity based organization
Villages, Ltd . Private Industry Rental Region
United Way of Larimer Regional organization Homelessness Region
County, Inc. public services
Disabled Resource Non - profit Homelessness Region
Services organizations public services
Colorado Health Non - profit Homelessness Region
Network dba Northern organizations Rental
Colorado AIDS Project public services
( NCAP )
Neighbor to Neighbor Non - profit Homelessness Region
organizations Ownership
Rental
public services
Touchstone Health Non - profit Homelessness Region
Partners organizations public services
Catholic Charities Community/ Faith - Homelessness Region
based organization Rental
public services
Crossroads Safehouse Non - profit Homelessness Region
organizations Rental
public facilities
public services
Health District of Government Homelessness Region
Northern Larimer public services
County
Salud Family Health Non - profit public services Region
Centers organizations
Turning Point Center for Non - profit public services Region
Youth and Family organizations
Development, Inc .
Table 50-Institutional Delivery Structure
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Assessment of Strengths and Gaps in the Institutional Delivery System
The City of Fort Collins is part of a strong partnership of public and private agencies in the City
addressing the housing and non -community development needs of the homeless, special needs groups
and low- income residents . The City with its partners has invested substantial resources and time in
developing plans and policies to ensure a comprehensive service delivery structure to meet the
underserved populations in the community. This collaborative service delivery model has been effective
at delivering services to the underserved populations . There has been an overall increase in the demand
for public services, housing and the array of supportive services needed by the lower-income special
needs populations and persons experiencing homelessness in the community. The strong economy has
placed greater pressure on the limited supply of affordable housing . For many households in the Fort
Collins community, the spiraling cost of housing is forcing people out of their homes because their
incomes have not kept pace with the increases in rents and home sale prices . Because many are cost-
burdened by housing costs, they are forced to turn to the social safety net in the community to obtain
services and assistance their limited incomes cannot supply . The gap in the service delivery system is a
matter of demand for service outstripping the resources to deliver those services and the affordable
housing to all who need it .
Availability of services targeted to homeless persons and persons with HIV and mainstream
services
Homelessness Prevention Available in the Targeted to Targeted to People
Services Community Homeless with HIV
Homelessness Prevention Services
Counseling/Advocacy X X X
Legal Assistance X X X
Mortgage Assistance X X
Rental Assistance X X X
Utilities Assistance X X
Street Outreach Services
Law Enforcement X X
Mobile Clinics
Other Street Outreach Services X X X
Supportive Services
Alcohol & Drug Abuse X X X
Child Care X X
Education X X X
Employment and Employment X X
Training X
Healthcare X X X
HIV/AIDS X X X
Life Skills X X X
Mental Health Counseling X X X
Transportation X X X
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Other
Emergency rent and Utility
Assistance X X X
Table 51-Homelessness Prevention Services Summary
Describe how the service delivery system including, but not limited to, the services listed
above meet the needs of homeless persons ( particularly individuals and families experiencing
chronical homelessness, families with children, veterans and their families, and
unaccompanied youth ) .
The service delivery system provides multi - point outreach and intake for the array of housing and
supportive services provided in the community . In addition to having access through the agencies listed
above, the Murphy Center also serves as a single point of access where those in need may make contact
with agency representatives from a range of local service providers . Moreover, the Murphy Center
provides access to a variety of State- based programs including SNAP, TANF, Medicaid and Elderly
Assistance programs . The targeted population groups at the Murphy Center include persons
experiencing homelessness, families with children, veterans and families and unaccompanied youth .
Describe the strengths and gaps of the service delivery system for special needs population
and persons experiencing homelessness, including, but not limited to, the services listed
above .
The City of Fort Collins is part of a strong partnership of public and private agencies in the City
addressing the housing and non -community development needs of the homeless, special needs groups
and low- income residents . With its partners, the City has invested substantial resources and time in
developing plans and policies to ensure a comprehensive service delivery structure to meet the
underserved populations in the community. This collaborative service delivery model has been effective
at delivering services to the underserved populations .
There has been an overall increase in the demand for public services, housing and the array of
supportive services needed by the lower- income population and the homeless of the community. The
strong economy has placed greater pressure on the limited supply of affordable housing. For many
households in Fort Collins, the spiraling cost of housing is forcing people out of their homes because
their incomes have not kept pace with the increases in rents and home sale prices . Because many are
cost burdened by housing costs, they are forced to turn to the social safety net in the community to
obtain services and assistance that their limited incomes cannot supply. The gap in the service delivery
system is a matter of demand for service outstripping the resources to deliver those services and
affordable housing to all who need it .
Provide a summary of the strategy for overcoming gaps in the institutional structure and
service delivery system for carrying out a strategy to address priority needs .
The 2015 Consolidated Plan represents an effort by the City to change some historic priority needs and
place greater emphasis on directing more federal and local resources to affordable housing and the
attendant services needed to increase the possibility for more underserved residents to obtain stable
housing, as well as the necessary support to become more economically self-sufficient . In order to
narrow the gap between service demands and resources, the City will be using both its federal funding
sources and local sources, including the Affordable Housing Fund and its Human Services Program
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dollars to assist housing and service providers respond to the increased demand for affordable housing
and human service support . The City will also use its land bank resources to address affordable housing
needs, and is considering other new fiscal tools that might be employed to increase the resources
beyond those itemized in this Consolidated Plan .
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SP45 Goals Summary — 91 . 215 ( a ) (4 )
Goals Summary Information
Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
Order Year Year Area
1 Increase the supply of 2015 2019 *Affordable Increase the supply of Rental units constructed :
affordable rental housing Housing affordable rental housing . 150 Household Housing
Increase the supply of Units
supportive housing
projects .
2 Provide assistance for the 2015 2019 *Affordable Increase opportunities to Homebuyer assistance
programs that support Housing obtain affordable home provided to 50 Household
affordable homeownership ownership . Housing units
Greater access to
supportive services .
3 Increase housing 2015 2019 * Affordable Increase the supply of Housing for persons
opportunities for persons Housing affordable rental housing . experiencing
experiencing homelessness * Homeless Increase the supply of homelessness added :
supportive housing 20 Household Housing
projects . Units
Expand housing
opportunities for persons
experiencing
homelessness .
4 Provide programs for 2015 2019 * Homeless Expand community Homelessness
homelessness prevention resources for Prevention :
homelessness prevention . 3000 Persons Assisted
Greater access to
supportive services .
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Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator
Order Year Year Area
5 Preserve existing affordable 2015 2019 * Affordable Preserve the existing Rental units rehabilitated :
housing inventory Housing supply of affordable 10 Household Housing
rental housing . Units
Preserve the existing
supply of affordable Homeowner Housing
owner-occupied housing . Rehabilitated :
10 Household Housing
Units
6 Supportive services to 2015 2019 * Non - Housing Greater access to Public service activities
improve living conditions Community supportive services . Low/ Moderate Income
Development Non - Housing Benefit :
2000 Persons Assisted
Public service activities
for Low/Moderate
Income Housing Benefit :
4000 Persons Assisted
Table 52—Goals Summary
Goal Descriptions
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I Goal Name Increase the supply of affordable rental housing
Goal The Needs Assessment and Market Analysis sections of the Consolidated Plan show there are a high number of renters who
Description are cost burdened . The most critical shortage is in the supply of decent, accessible, affordable rental housing . The City has
listed this need as a high priority and will work with private developers, non - profit developers and the Fort Collins Housing
Authority to increase the supply of affordable rental housing targeted to low- income populations, special needs populations
and homeless populations . The City provides a variety of federal and local resources to ensure that the cost barriers
associated with affordable housing production can be overcome .
2 Goal Name
Provide assistance for the programs that support affordable homeownership
Goal The City of Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department Strategic Plan ( SSDSP ) and the Affordable Housing Strategic Plan set
Description affordable homeownership as goals . The City is actively committed to continuing its Homebuyer Assistance ( HBA) Program
throughout varying market conditions . As other opportunities and solutions in this arena present themselves, the City will
explore those strategies, as well .
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3 Goal Name Increase housing opportunities for persons experiencing homelessness .
Goal The City has assembled data on the needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Fort Collins . Based upon
Description that data, there is a shortage of short term or permanent supportive housing units for households who are experiencing
homelessness or in danger of losing their current housing. The City and its partners will be working together to build the
supply of units that can be available with lower rents and also to package the necessary support services to ensure that
homeless households have the chance to live in a stable housing unit that offers them a long term opportunity to become
more self-sufficient . The City' s first permanent supportive housing project for persons experiencing homelessness was just
completed in early 2015 . Once the 60 units are leased up, and the property has reached stabilization, the community will re-
evaluate its needs for homeless housing . Whether it be transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, or housing
option models still evolving, the City will continue to address to full spectrum of housing options for persons experiencing
homelessness .
4 Goal Name Provide programs for homelessness prevention
Goal The extremely tight housing market in Fort Collins puts pressure on households with economic, medical or other challenges
Description to maintain a stable living environment . The most cost effective approach to decreasing the numbers of homeless is to
provide rapid rehousing and stabilization options to households in danger of becoming homeless . The City will provide
financial and operational resources to partners who provide assistance to prevent new episodes of homelessness . The array
of programs include direct financial assistance in the form of payment for rent and utilities, case management and self-
sufficiency supportive services, and tenant based rental assistance when Housing Authority resources are inadequate to
provide rental assistance to households on the verge of homelessness .
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5 Goal Name Preserve existing affordable housing inventory
Goal Fort Collins will work with the Larimer Home Improvement Program ( LHIP ) and other groups to preserve the existing
Description inventory of affordable apartments and homeowner properties . The City will provide financing for below market rate
rehabilitation loans for health and safety improvements on the homes of low and moderate income homeowners . The City
will provide financing for the acquisition, and rehabilitation of existing rental properties that will be rent restricted for low-
income households . The City will also assist in financing the rehabilitation and accessibility improvements for rent restricted
properties that need improvements in order to keep them sustainable in the present housing market.
6 Goal Name Supportive services to improve living conditions
Goal The City of Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department Strategic Plan ( SSDSP ) lays out a vision for improving the living
Description conditions of all Fort Collins residents . The SSDSP emphasizes the underserved needs of the low- income residents of the City
who need an array of supportive services to assist them in becoming more self-sufficient in the face of limited personal
resources . Several population groups are in need of supportive services that are provided by numerous public and charitable
organizations in the City. These population groups include the elderly, households in poverty, persons experiencing
homelessness, those with various medical and mental challenges, and children and youth .
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Estimate the number of extremely low-income, low-income, and moderate-income families to whom the jurisdiction will provide
affordable housing as defined by HOME 91 . 315 ( b ) ( 2) .
The City plans to provide affordable housing to approximately 230 households through the following activities :
Affordable rental housing — 150 families
Tenant Based Rental Assistance — 20 families
Homeownership Assistance — 50 families
Homeowner Rehab — 10 families
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SM0 Public Housing Accessibility and Involvement — 91 . 215 ( c )
Need to Increase the Number of Accessible Units ( if Required by a Section 504 Voluntary
Compliance Agreement)
The City of Fort Collins Housing Authority is not under a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement.
Activities to Increase Resident Involvements
The Fort Collins Housing Authority operates the Family Self Sufficiency Program ( FSS ) for both Section 8
housing choice voucher holders and public housing residents . As households annually recertify their
incomes with the housing authority, they are invited to join the program . Currently the FCHA has three
FSS coordinators and 150 participants in the program .
The FCHA also operates a homeownership program for voucher holders . Since starting the program ,
approximately 55 households have moved from the Section 8 voucher program to homeownership . The
buyers are able to escrow a downpayment through the FSS program, and use City of Fort Collins
downpayment assistance and first time homebuyer loan programs to purchase homes .
The FCHA is in the process of public housing disposition, and has included FCHA residents in the Rental
Assistance Demonstration ( RAD ) program planning process . The FCHA has invited residents to meetings
about the process, explained the process to residents, and included resident comments in the plan .
The FCHA has one former resident on the Board of Directors, in a position designated for current or
former residents of FCHA housing .
Is the public housing agency designated as troubled under 24 CFR part 902 ?
No .
Plan to remove the `troubled' designation
NA - the Fort Collins Housing Authority does not have a troubled designation .
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SP-55 Barriers to affordable housing — 91115 ( h )
Barriers to Affordable Housing
Lack of below market rate land for development of new housing is a major barrier to affordable housing.
Research indicates that land costs make up for 30% of the total development cost for new residential
housing. Additionally, the cost of labor, materials and transaction costs continue to escalate following
the Great Recession which started in 2008 . The percentage of government fees and exactions has not
gone up over the past 10 years . The City commissioned a Housing Affordability Policy Study ( HAPS ) in
2014 to better understand the dynamics of the Fort Collins housing market and also to make policy
recommendations which the City may adopt in order to stimulate development of affordable housing,
which is in short supply. The Housing Affordability Policy Study identified the following facts that are
indicative of conditions in the housing market :
1 . Local employment growth has been stronger than regional growth, and incomes have barely kept
pace with the cost of living .
2 . Housing prices have risen faster than incomes, and the affordability gap for households with median
income has widened .
3 . Most of the increase in housing costs has been attributable to the rise in hard costs ( labor and
materials) and land .
4 . In -commuting has increased while out-commuting has remained flat .
5 . Demand for rental housing is tightening the market, but also stimulating construction .
6 . Approximately 1, 000 ownership households are cost- burdened .
7 . Between 1, 250 and 2, 400 renter households are cost- burdened .
The Needs Assessment and the Market Analysis sections of the Consolidated Plan provide more detailed
data on how the tight housing market is affecting low- and moderate-income households . The tight
housing market is likely forcing more households into homelessness who don 't have the means to
compete in an inflationary market .
Strategy to Remove or Ameliorate the Barriers to Affordable Housing
The HAPS report included some policy recommendations that could be enacted by the City to lessen the
severity of the housing market imbalance . The City is in the process of considering the HAPS
recommendations — as well as other actions —that could increase the supply of affordable housing. To
mitigate the high cost of development, the strategy the City will pursue includes the following :
1 . Continue to provide both federal and City funds to affordable housing developers willing to
produce new rental units that are affordable to households with incomes less than $ 25, 000 .
These cash incentives will enable developers to produce rent restricted units at a rate affordable
to low-income households .
2 . Provide fee waivers and rebates to affordable rental housing developers . By backfilling City
utility fees and impact fees, the City can help developers lower total development costs for
targeted income groups .
3 . Examine the feasibility of restructuring its permit, plan check, and capital expansion fee
structures to ensure equitability and appropriateness as related to the proportionate impact on
the construction of smaller units . This policy would incentivize developers to build smaller units .
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4 . Explore the pros and cons of reducing the minimum standards for lot sizes ( minimum house size
has already been reduced ) .
5 . Using the City' s land bank resource as a way of making those land holdings available for
development of affordable rental and owner housing. Making land bank assets available on
long term zero income leases would buy down the land costs associated with new development .
Exploring other options for maximizing the value of the land bank properties for addressing
affordable housing challenges . Currently, land costs in Fort Collins are estimated to be 30% of
total development costs .
6 . The City will be considering other regulatory policies that could require a set number of
affordable units in all rental or for-sale developments, or might provide funding through excise
taxes or other revenue sources to buy down the development costs of rental housing for those
in the low- and very- low- income bands .
7 . The City is considering reallocating federal funding sources, including CDBG and HOME, to
ensure more funds are directed toward priority housing needs .
8 . The City is examining alternative funding sources to produce more capital to support affordable
housing efforts . These fund resources could include a dedicated sales tax portion, excise taxes
on commercial development or imposition of fees on recording of real estate documents and
other potential revenue sources . Many of these tools would require an affirmative vote of Fort
Collins voters .
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SM0 Homelessness Strategy — 91 . 215 ( d )
Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their
individual needs :
The City has made the challenges of persons experiencing homelessness a central facet of its Social
Sustainability Department Strategic Plan (SSDSP ) . The plan reflects a coordinated effort between City
agencies, local service providers and community organizations to address homelessness in a
comprehensive manner. The City provides financial support to agencies that provide outreach — both
through agency facilities and street outreach —to inform and assist individuals and families experiencing
homelessness in making connections with service providers . The City supports the Murphy Center, a
multi- purpose community outreach and assistance facility that serves as a clearinghouse for agencies
providing services and those needing service . The unique aspect of the Murphy Center is that the
facility provides a place where persons experiencing or at risk of homelessness can access a wide range
of service agencies and begin to receive supportive services almost instantaneously. The Murphy Center
also houses agencies that provide the range of housing services, from emergency housing to transitional
housing to permanent supportive housing, as well as agencies that offer an array of homelessness
prevention and rapid rehousing services . The center can connect residents with an array of other
service providers, thereby covering such needs as childcare, medical care, mental health care, and
emergency assistance like food and clothing.
Addressing the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons :
The SSDSP offers a targeted emphasis on increasing the supply of short term housing — such as
transitional housing— and providing rapid rehousing options through such programs as tenant based
rental assistance . Catholic Charities' Mission , the Fort Collins Rescue Mission, and Family Faith
Hospitality' s program for families, all provide emergency shelter for those who are on the streets with
nowhere else to go . Presently the capacity of these facilities is adequate, except in extreme weather
conditions . Homeward 2020 is focusing on rapid rehousing and more permanent housing options to
minimize the number of people residing in the emergency shelter . Because the community has a well -
integrated service network, if a homeless individual or household can be placed in stable housing
supported with services, the outcomes for those households is generally more positive than for those
who have to spend extended periods in a mass shelter. Strategically, the City is able to foster greater
community support for rapid rehousing and permanent housing solutions than for building larger
emergency facilities to warehouse people unable to obtain more stable housing .
Helping homeless persons ( especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families
with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth ) make the transition to
permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that
individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access to affordable housing
units for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and preventing individuals and
families who were recently experiencing homelessness from becoming homeless again :
The Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department Strategic Plan (SSDSP ) and the Consolidated Plan both
emphasize the need for the community to expand the permanently affordable rental housing supply and
rapid rehousing options for both chronically and episodically homeless households who find themselves
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falling out of the housing market because of high rents and various other challenges . The City and
agencies providing support services to unaccompanied youth have a network of foster families willing to
house youth on a short term basis until more permanent housing can be found . With the expanded
emphasis on providing more permanent affordable housing opportunities, the Homeward 2020
approach is to include the shelter needs of youth in the mix of affordable rental units, packaged with the
necessary supportive services to help them achieve a higher level of independence . Because the overall
rental housing market is so tight and expensive, it is challenging for service providers who provide
transitional housing to limit the residency period for those occupying transitional units . Because there is
often no place for the formerly homeless family to move to following their allotted time in a transitional
unit, housing providers are forced to allow extensions on transitional time limits . This phenomenon
lessens the chances for other households transitioning out of homelessness to obtain a transitional unit
while they deal with their other challenges . The City has been extensively involved with the Fort Collins
Housing Authority in the construction of a new 60- unit supportive housing rental complex named Red
Tail Ponds . The housing complex marks the first step in implementing the City' s SSSP strategy of
expanding the supply of permanently affordable, accessible rental housing for persons experiencing
homelessness and other special needs populations . A consortium of service providers provides on -site
case management and support services to Red Tail Ponds residents .
Because there is often a gap in the lead time to develop and build new units, the City envisions use of
Tenant Based Rental Assistance to provide interim housing assistance to families who cannot find a
transitional unit or a permanently affordable unit. By providing rental assistance beyond what is
available through the Section 8 Program, persons experiencing homelessness and other special needs
residents will have a greater chance of obtaining an affordable unit through the market rate rental
inventory in Fort Collins .
Help low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely
low- income individuals and families who are likely to become homeless after being
discharged from a publicly funded institution or system of care, or who are receiving
assistance from public and private agencies that address housing, health, social services,
employment, education or youth needs :
The Fort Collins Social Sustainability Strategic Plan ( SSSP ) identifies several populations that often find
themselves without housing after they have been released from residential facilities or from the
correction system facilities . Youth experiencing homelessness find it difficult to find housing if they have
been involved in a residential care or foster home . There are very few affordable rental options for
them and they often fall into the emergency system when they can no longer couch surf with friends or
family . As the inventory of permanently affordable housing grows, youth experiencing homelessness
will be mainstreamed into apartments with supportive vocational and counseling services to assist them
in achieving greater independence in safer environments than what street life provides . The second
highlighted population is former offenders coming out of the corrections system . Often , landlords and
employers are reluctant to rent an apartment to or hire a former offender. The City will work with
community corrections and counseling agencies on educational outreach to employers and landlords so
that former offenders have a chance to reenter mainstream society and work toward a crime free life in
an independent setting that provides stable housing and the necessary ongoing counseling and support
services to facilitate their integration back into society.
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 143
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As residents find themselves in danger of losing their place of residence, the supportive service safety
net is critical in helping those households avoid episodes of homelessness . The Fort Collins SSSP
describes an integrated housing and service delivery system that ensures stable housing is available,
therefore lessening the occurrence of homelessness and at the same time, providing the needed level of
general assistance and specialized, individual case management . The City will utilize a significant
amount of CDBG funding and the City-funded Human Services Program to ensure service providers have
the necessary resources to assist these households maintain a level of independence, with stable
housing as the platform .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 144
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SM5 Lead based paint Hazards — 91 . 215 ( i )
Actions to address LBP hazards and increase access to housing without LBP hazards
The City adheres to requirements that all buildings built prior to January 1, 1978 have a lead hazards
assessment when federal funds will be used to purchase or rehabilitate the property. In addition, the
City follows EPA regulations, which require that any federally funded organization undergoing an activity
which causes disruption of lead use only EPA-certified workers and follow procedures to minimize the
spread of lead . Lead hazards in public housing units and other units of the Fort Collins Housing Authority
have been stabilized and/or removed in previous years during rehabilitations . All properties must be
cleared of lead hazards before funding is provided . All applicants acquiring housing built prior to 1978
receive the EPA booklet at application .
How are the actions listed above related to the extent of lead poisoning and hazards?
As housing providers purchase, rehabilitate, and lease housing units located in Fort Collins, they are
required to assess and mitigate lead hazards according to guidelines provided in the Lead Safe Housing
Rule .
How are the actions listed above integrated into housing policies and procedures?
All CDBG and HOME sub-grantees are required to follow the HUD Lead Safe Housing Rule and rule
requirements based on the activity they are undertaking . Grantees involved in leasing, acquiring,
rehabilitating, or maintaining housing units must keep files that provide compliance with these rules and
regulations . Sub-grantees must also provide clients with the " Protect Your Family from Lead in Your
Home" pamphlet. Verification of this notification must be maintained in client files .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 145
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SP-70 Anti - Poverty Strategy — 91 . 215 (j )
Jurisdiction Goals, Programs and Policies for Reducing the Number of Poverty- Level Families
Fort Collins has adopted a comprehensive Anti - Poverty Strategy that is well integrated with broader
community development and housing needs elucidated in the Consolidated Plan . The challenges of
poverty make it problematic for households to obtain decent, accessible affordable housing and the
necessary essential services all households need for establishing a suitable living environment for
themselves and their families . The Fort Collins Anti- Poverty Strategy is spelled out in the Social and
Sustainability Strategic Plan (SSSP ) and the Economic Health Strategic Plan ( EHSP ) . The SSSP has two
major goals and the EHSP supports those goals with programs and policies for implementation of the
goals . The SSSP goals :
1 . Expand opportunities to develop needed skills, education and resources for persons not
workforce ready.
2 . Remove and reduce barriers to employment .
In order to implement those goals, the SSSP formulates the following strategies :
Goal 1 Strategies :
1 . Increase opportunities for access to higher education and vocational training with particular
emphasis on underserved and disadvantaged populations .
2 . Partner with employers to increase opportunities for workforce development including job
readiness skills .
3 . Partner with school district and other community institutions to enhance school readiness and
early elementary reading literacy.
Goal 2 Strategies :
1 . Support and encourage programs that emphasize work force training and retraining with
particular emphasis on persons employed in low- paying or obsolete jobs .
2 . Increase access to high quality affordable childcare and dependent care .
3 . Increase opportunities for seniors and person with disabilities in the workforce .
4 . Support programs to help working persons preserve, support, and stabilize their families .
The Economic Health Strategic Plan adds more detail and operational insight into how these goals and
strategies will be implemented . The EHSP envisions a sustainable economy, which means an economy
that works for all citizens . Upper-income households will have the financial and educational resources
to continue to adjust, both socially and economically, to changes in the Fort Collins economy as well as
changes brought about by climate change and continued advancements in technology. In order for the
Fort Collins economy to work for everyone, those in the lower bands of the economy will need to see
opportunities to increase their income . Those opportunities will be formed around gaining better skills,
having access to ongoing training and job placement resources to assist them adjust to the ongoing
changes taking place in both the local and national economy.
In order to facilitate these insights at an operational level , the EHSP has established the following goals
and actions to provide more opportunity for poverty level households to gain a greater share of the
benefits an expanding economy such the Fort Collins economy presently enjoys .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 146
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Goals and actions to reduce poverty :
1 . Close the skill gap and increase career pathways in the community by creating an
alignment between employers, workforce center and educational institutions to ensure
that training and assessment reflects future workforce needs .
2 . Increase employment opportunities for a greater number of residents . Increase those
opportunities by business retention and expansion .
3 . Increase the number of work ready employees by building new career pathways that
provide new opportunities through increasing worker skills and educational attainment .
4 . Expand funding sources to support on -the-job training for new and incumbent workers .
5 . Encourage and support employers to provide workplace education and training
opportunities to facilitate the advance of workers within the job clusters the employer
needs .
6 . Maintain clear, predictable and transparent processes within City departments to
ensure that employers and employees understand both the restrictions and
opportunities expressed in the Economic Health Strategic Plan . To create a more
transparent navigable environment, have Economic Health staff work with Planning
Services and employers to better understand their needs and assist in mediating any
regulatory or procedural barriers that may make it difficult for business expansion .
7 . Develop career pathways that enhance the ability of employees to increase their income
by moving higher on career pathways in industries that have multiple facets and
increasingly skilled positions . As employees are able to increase their skills and
competencies, it is a benefit to employers if they promote to higher level positions from
within . Exiting employees have demonstrated their capabilities and willingness to
participate in the culture of that employment center.
How are the Jurisdiction poverty reducing goals, programs, and policies coordinated with this
affordable housing plan ?
The City of Fort Collins has invested in the necessary research and planning efforts to implement the
beginnings of an integrated housing and community development approach designed to provide those
facing the challenges of poverty with a variety of assets to help them achieve greater economic
independence . The City is aware the resource base will never be substantial enough to provide an
infinite supply of affordable housing opportunities for all who need them . Even if the City had a limitless
cash balance to provide subsidized housing for all who presently need it in Fort Collins, most residents
would rather feel they provide for their own economic well - being . Most Americans want to work and
they want the fruits of their labor to produce an income sufficient enough to provide a decent place to
live and enough income to cover the other essential outlays they make for food, clothing, educational
expenses, transportation costs, medical and child care needs . Just having an affordable place to live
does not address the broader economic challenge . As the Fort Collins economy continues to change and
expand , residents who have the necessary financial resources to adjust to those changes will be able to
keep afloat and maintain a decent quality of life for themselves and dependents . However, given the
tight housing market the City currently faces, it is important the City devotes resources to ensure those
who need stable housing have greater access so they can utilize the other robust array of opportunities
the City provides to move them along the path of greater self-sufficiency . As citizens benefit from the
menu of services and support the City brokers with other public purpose agencies, they will be better
able to provide for themselves, thereby continuing to make scarce resources available for others
challenged by poverty.
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 147
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SP-80 Monitoring — 91 . 230
Describe the standards and procedures that the jurisdiction will use to monitor activities
carried out in furtherance of the plan and will use to ensure long-term compliance with
requirements of the programs involved, including minority business outreach and the
comprehensive planning requirements .
Fort Collins has a well -established procurement and contracting process that ensures sub-grantees meet
the established goals and outcomes for the project, program or services funded by the City.
At least annually, each subrecipient is monitored to ensure subrecipient files contain the necessary
documentation to validate that program funds have been expended on appropriate expenses that
produce the outcomes specified in contract documents .
The City monitors subrecipient documentation to ensure the subrecipient meets the cross cutting
requirements contained in HOME and CDBG regulations, including Section 3, National Environmental
Protection Agency ( NEPA) requirements, procurement and Fair Housing Marketing and Outreach .
The City also partners with subrecipients to ensure their activities are tracked and documented for use
in other City plans and strategies that measure how well the City is meeting the milestones and outcome
indicators contained in other strategic plans . Annually the City updates the Annual Action Plan to reflect
progress and deficiencies within the stated Goal Outcome indicators included in the Strategic Plan and
One-Year update .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 148
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Appendix A
City of Fort Collins
2015 - 2019 Consolidated Plan
Community Questionnaire Summary
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 149
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Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 150
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The City of Fort Collins Social Sustainability Department created a questionnaire to collect opinions from
all members of the community about existing needs . The electronic questionnaire was widely marketed
and distributed by the City to all residents throughout Fort Collins . Paper versions of the questionnaire
were also made available by the City and the non - profit community to obtain as many opinions as
possible . Those results were hand collected and then tabulated electronically by CSI .
A total of 576 households responded to the survey . The majority of respondents ( 66% ) identified
themselves as private citizens . Fifteen percent stated they are non- profit service providers and
fourteen percent of respondents identified themselves as government employees . Each respondent did
not answer all questions . Therefore, the following tables and charts have different total responses to
each .
Household Profile
The majority of people who responded live and work in Fort Collins ( 60%) . Twelve percent ( 12%)
reported living elsewhere but were currently employed in Fort Collins . Approximately one-third of
respondents reported being married with children, and one third reported being in a married or partner
household with no children . Ten percent ( 10%) of people who answered this questionnaire identified
themselves as a single parent household .
Table 1 : Household profile
Answer Options Response Response
Percent Count
I live in Fort Collins and am employed in Fort Collins 60 .2% 347
1 live in Fort Collins and am employed elsewhere 5 .2% 30
1 live in Fort Collins and am not currently employed 16 . 3% 94
1 live elsewhere and am employed in Fort Collins 10 . 6% 61
1 live elsewhere and employed elsewhere 1 .6% 9
1 live elsewhere and am not currently employed 1 .2% 7
Other leasespecify) 4 . 9% 28
Source : CSI
Table 2 : Affiliation/ Profession
Answer Options Response Response Count
Percent
Private citizen 65.4% 374
Housing agency staff person 1 . 7% 10
Housing developer 0 . 3% 2
Non-profit service provider 14 . 7% 84
Service provider primarily for persons experiencing homelessness 0 . 9% 5
Economic development entity representative/ employee 0 . 5% 3
Local or state official 0 . 7% 4
Government employee 13 . 8% 79
Funder 0 . 3% 2
Other leasespecify) 1 . 6% 9
Total Responses 100 .0% 572
Source : CSI
Table 3 : Household Composition
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Answer Options Response Response
Percent Count
Married/ partner household with children currently present 27.6% 157
Married/ partner household without children currently present 27 . 1 % 154
Single parent household 11 . 1 % 63
Individual living alone and under 65 years of age 11 .6% 66
Individual living along and 65 years of age or over 3 .2% 18
Household of two or more unmarried adults, no children 8 .3% 47
Household of two or more adults all 65 year of age or more 1 .6% 9
Household of two or more adults, with a mix of persons under age 65 and
age 65 or over 1 .9% 11
College student 3.2% 18
Multi-family household 1 .2% 7
Multi-generational household 3 or moregenerations) 1 .4% 8
Other leasespecify) 1 .9% 11
Total Responses 569
Source: CSI
Income
Respondents were asked to provide income ranges by family size . Not all respondents provided this
information , but the following table and graphic show the percentage of respondents by household size
and income range, by HUD 2014 Area Median Incomes . These income ranges are used by the City of
Fort Collins, housing and service providers, to determine eligibility for various housing and service
programs . The questionnaire received responses for households in all income ranges, and with a variety
of household sizes .
Table 4: Incomes and Household Sizes of Respondents
1 Person 2 Person 3 Person 4 Person Total
0 - 30% AMI 3 .4% 4.2% 3. 1 % 2 .9% 13 .5%
31 - 50% AMI 3 .9% 3.9% 3.4% 2 . 1 % 13 .2%
51 - 80% AMI 3 .6% 6.5% 2.9% 3 .4% 16 .4 o
81 - 100% AMI 1 .6% 5.7% 1 .3% 2 .6% 11 .2%
Over 100% AMI 4 .4% 24.4% 8.3% 8 .6% 45.7%
Source: CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 152
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Figure 1 : Incomes and Household Size of Respondents
50.0
45 .0
40.0
35 .0%
30.0% 4 Person
25 .0% ■ 3 Person
20.0
■ 2 Person
15 .0
10.0% ■ 1 Person
5 .0% -
0.0% ,
0 - 30% 31 - 50% 51 - 80% 81 - 100% Over 100%
AMI AMI AMI AMI AMI
Age
Thirty-five percent ( 35% ) of respondents reported their age range as 45-64 years old and 25 %
respondents were between the ages of 25 -34 . Forty-four respondents ( 11 % ) were over the age of 65 .
Table 5 : Age of Respondents
Answer Options Response Response Count
Percent
18 years old or less 0 .5% 2
19-24 years old 6 .4% 27
25-34 years old 26.8% 114
35-44 years old 20.9% 89
45-64 years old 35. 1 % 149
65 years or more 10.4% 44
Answered question 425
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 153
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Figure 2 : Age of Respondents
0. 5%
10 . 4% 6 .4%
■ 18 years old or less
■ 19-24 years old
26 . 8% ■ 25-34 years old
1% ■ 35-44 years old
■ 45-64 years old
■ 65 years or more
20 . 9%
Disability
Five hundred and sixty-two people answered the question about disability . Of those respondents, 14%
reported having someone in their household with a disability.
Table 6 : Households With One or More Disabled Member
Answer Options Response Response Count
Percent
Yes 14 . 1 % 79
No 85 . 9% 483
Answered question 562
Source : CSI
Ethnicity and Race
Hispanic or Latino respondents encompassed 13 % of those who completed the questionnaire . Most
respondents ( 87% ) identified their race as Non- Hispanic or Latino . There were 417 responses to the
question requesting regarding race . Of those, 370 identified themselves as White, 4 identified as
Black/African American and four identified as Asian .
Table 7 : Ethnicity of Respondents
Answer Options Response Response
Percent Count
Non-Hispanic/Latino 86 . 9% 333
Hispanic Latino 13 . 1 % 50
Answered question 383
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 154
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Table 8 : Race of Respondents
Answer Options Response Response
Percent Count
White 88 . 7% 370
Black/ African American 1 .0% 4
Black/African American & White 0 .0% 0
Asian 1 .0% 4
Asian & White 0 . 7% 3
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0 . 7% 3
American Indian or Alaskan Native & 0 . 7% 3
White
American Indian or Alaskan Native & 0 .0% 0
Black
Native Hawaii/Other Pacific Islander 0 .2% 1
Other leasespecify) 7 .0% 29
answered question 417
Source : CSI
Community Needs
Respondents were asked to prioritize broad categories of community needs . These areas include
affordable housing, community development, economic development, supportive services, facilities' for
persons experiencing homelessness, and services for persons experiencing homelessness .
The highest identified need by questionnaire respondents was affordable housing. The second highest
need was identified as facilities for persons experiencing homelessness and then services for persons
experiencing homelessness . The lowest ranked priority was Community Development activities such as
improving public parks and playgrounds, water and sewer line repair and energy conservation .
Table 9 : Respondents Rankings of Broad Com unity Priorities
Highest Medium Low No Don't No Response
Answer Options ( 1 ) (2) (3) Need Know Opinion Count
Affordable Housing 333 65 14 0 2 3 417
Community Development 87 191 110 5 4 14 411
Economic Development 113 194 83 13 10 10 423
Supportive Services 155 192 43 9 17 4 420
Facilities for Persons Experiencing 216 127 58 10 7 7 425
Homelessness
Services for Persons Experiencing 196 148 52 9 10 6 421
Homelessness
Other 18
Answered question 429
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 155
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Figure 3 : Highest Priority Broad Community Priorities— Number of Highest (1 ) Rankings
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350
Affordable Housing
Community Development
Economic Development
Supportive Services
Facilities for Persons Experiencing Homelessness
Services for Persons Experiencing Homelessness
Source : CSI
Respondents were allowed to provide comments related to broad community priorities . The following
table is a listing of these comments .
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Table 10: Comments on Broad Community Priorities
more services for people on disability or on a fixed income ie. attorneys who will work pro-bono for the disabled or persons
on fixed incomes.
Increase minimum wage.
How about a detox or addiction recovery home aside from mental disabilities if possible
Hostels, Boarding Houses for single working men , NO MORE THAN $400 / month for 1 room ! ! ! ! ! !
facilities for families experiencing homelessness
Concern for Homelessness if not a career
housing for mentally ill and addicted
Please stop appeasing outlandish realty investment, as they are forsaking people for profit
Garden Space
We really need to provide housing and facilities available to the low income and homeless in order to have a consistent place
to stay while they get back on their feet.
attention to the environment - water, clean air, open s ace - TOP PRIORITY! ! !
no help for homeless living off the ov./ handouts. If physically able than they should work to get assistance
Services to people with disabilities in poverty to help prevent homelessness
I want to clarify that I think Homelessness is an issue in our community but I feel a bit flummoxed at the amount of money
and number of organizations currently addressing the need without any apparent viable solutions.
Parent education
By being so homeless friendly we have outside homeless coming to Fort Collins
affordable child care for working families
Source: CSI
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Affordable Housing
Respondents were asked to rank the importance of nine activities that address affordable housing needs
in Fort Collins . Developing and preserving affordable rental housing for non-elderly individuals and
households was the highest ranked priority. Homelessness prevention support (such as emergency rent
assistance and financial counseling ) was the second highest prioritized activity by respondents . The
lowest ranked activity was developing and preserving affordable rental housing for special populations
( such as emancipated youth ) .
Table 11 : Affordable Housing Priority Activities
Highest Medium Low No Don't No Response
Answer Options (1 ) (2) (3) Need Know Opinion Count
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing 270 115 28 3 6 4 426
for NON-ELDERLY individuals and households
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing 240 129 33 2 19 3 426
for ELDERLY individuals and households .
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing 219 158 25 1 18 2 423
for PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing
for other SPECIAL POPULATIONS (emancipated 151 151 76 19 20 5 422
youth )
Provide assistance for low and moderate income 170 144 81 20 4 3 422
households to PURCHASE a home
Provide assistance for low and moderate income
households to MAINTAIN a home (rehabilitation , 144 181 78 16 5 1 425
repair)
HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION SUPPORT
(such as emergency rent assistance , financial 243 129 35 8 9 1 425
counseling )
Increase the supply of NON- PERMANENT
RENTAL HOUSING for persons who are 179 149 66 7 17 5 423
experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of PERMANENT RENTAL
HOUSING WITH SUPPORTIVE SERVICES for 209 124 56 13 13 6 421
persons who are experiencing homelessness
Source : CSI
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Figure 4 : Affordable Housing Priority Activities - Number of Highest (1 ) Rankings
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing for NON-ELDERLY
individuals and households
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing for ELDERLY individuals
and households.
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing for PERSONS WITH
DISABILITIES
Develop and preserve affordable rental housing for other SPECIAL
POPULATIONS (emancipated youth ) NON
Provide assistance for low and moderate income households to
PURCHASE a home
=7
Provide assistance for low and moderate income households to
MAINTAIN a home (rehabilitation, repair)
HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION SUPPORT (such as emergency rent
assistance, financial counseling) ONE
Increase the supply of NON-PERMANENT RENTAL HOUSING for persons .
who are experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of PERMANENT RENTAL HOUSING WITH
SUPPORTIVE SERVICES for persons who are experiencing homelessness
Source : CSI
Community Development
Respondents were asked to rank the importance of five community development activities to meet the
needs for low and moderate income households or neighborhoods . Of the five activities listed , energy
conservation was ranked as the highest need overall . Water and sewer line repair was the second
highest identified need and public parks and playground improvements were ranked the least needed
community development activities in Fort Collins .
Table 12 : Community Development Priority Activities
Answer Options Highest Medium Low No Don 't No Response
( 1 ) (2) (3) Need Know Opinion Count
4
Street Improvements 76 184 128 15 19 3 425
Public parks and playground improvements 78 175 129 26 13 4 425
Water and sewer line repair 127 150 92 12 34 7 422
Sidewalk construction or repair 97 158 121 17 25 5 423
Energy conservation 165 144 79 13 14 5 420
Other (please specify) 20
Source : CSI
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Figure 5 : Community Development Priority Activities — Number of Highest ( 1 ) Rankings
Energy conservation
Sidewalk construction or repair
Water and sewer line repair
Public parks and playground improvements
Street Improvements
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Source : CSI
Table 13 : "Other" Community Development Activities Identified by Respondents
Voice and sight tag for dogs - like the City of Boulder. TRAINED dogs should be permitted to walk off-leash in parks .
Classes and extra fees should apply to ensure people don't take advantage of this .
Transit service , bicycling facilities , trails
Raise minimum wage to avoid homelessness .
A routine, non-aggressive police services presence , all of the above should be occurring REGARDLESS of neighborhood
status
The parks are currently in great shape !
FC desperately needs options allowing development of affordable housing
All indigent housing should model top standards of efficiency
Expanded bike paths and network to greater community
Sidewalk beautification should not be prioritized over affordable housing
Water and sewer line repair doesn't belong in this question as those are paid for by fees and not the general fund
Increased bike lanes and bike paths would reduce wear on roads and need for increased maintenance .
Access to Public Transportation
safety improvements, lighting , call boxes, neighborhood patrols
Access to the Boys & Girls club from the Poudre River Trail
Public Safety to keep neighborhoods safe
Landscaping/Building Maintenance Upkeep
ability to lock bikes
#6 Home ownership should NOT be for everyone . It is NOT a right to own a home .
Alternate low cost transportation -- bus , bicycle , etc.
public transportation
Economic Development
Job creation was the highest ranked economic development activity in Fort Collins according to
questionnaire respondents . Job training and job placement services were the second highest need .
Providing support to small , minority and locally owned businesses was ranked third . The lowest ranked
economic development activity was encouraging redevelopment to provide additional housing and
office space .
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Table 14: Economic Development Priority Activities
Please rank the importance of the following activities meeting ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT needs .
Answer Options Highest Medium Low (3) No Need Don't No Response
( 1 ) (2) (4) Know Opinion Count
Job creation 259 132 16 5 6 2 420
Use of incentives (such as tax rebates) to 148 182 57 18 12 5 422
encoura a job creation by employers
Providing support to small , minority, and locally- 178 175 52 5 8 2 420
owned businesses
Job training and job placement services 199 166 36 7 13 1 422
Summer youth employment (through age 18 126 169 107 8 11 5 426
Coordinating training programs between 174 177 53 6 9 1 420
employers and educational institutions
Encouraging redevelopment to provide 143 153 85 12 20 4 417
additional housing and office space
Other leasespecify) 20
Source : CSI
Figure 6 : Economic Development Priority Activities — Number of Highest ( 1 ) Rankings
Encouraging redevelopment to provide additional housing and
office space
Coordinating training programs between employers and
educational institutions
Summer youth employment (through age 18)
Job training and job placement services
Providing support to small, minority, and locally-owned
businesses
Use of incentives ( such as tax rebates ) to encourage job
creation by employers
Job creation
I I
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Source : CSI
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Table 15 : "Other" Economic Development Activities Identified by Respondents
job creation needs to be more professional than low income shop or restaurant work
More affordable housing for people recovering from severe illness like cancer and disabilities sustained from
such illnesses
Job creation at a living (above minimum ) wage . Jobs within close proximity to neighborhoods with a range of
housing prices that could be affordable to employees .
Raise minimum wage . Vote Democratic/re : outsourcing .
Help exists for small business SBA
There is no shortage of jobs , but most are dead-ends .
Need to encourage the development of affordable housing in FC
Raising the minimum wage
The out screen every potential new hire and are unwilling to train their own people , so jobs sit empty because
they're too picky. Do NOT incentivize this any longer please
Redevelopment not new development is the key.
"Encouraging redevelopment to provide additional housing and office space" . . . It depends on what kind of
office space . If it is for more retail , a big bank office, or anything else that is highly for-profit and has a history
of questionable ethics, than I say no . If it is for local business and services that directly benefit our community
than I' m all for it.
Provide increased opportunities for alternative transportation
Encourage businesses to have internships for non-skilled labor
jobs need to be to "move u " not just min wage service jobs
Encouraging tiny-home development fewer HUGE homes for couples)
higher wage jobs needed , not service jobs
don 't make it so hard for small businesses, tax rebates , lower rentals ace , etc.
"Support for small businesses" is pretty vague . . . what does that mean?
Job creation needs to bring in jobs other than retail and restaurant. It seems to me that CSU does a good job
on the training programs already.
job creation but not just minimum wage service jobs, jobs that use the education population in Fort Collins
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 162
OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
Supportive Services
There were twelve categories of supportive services that respondents were asked to rank . Mental
health services and child care were the highest ranked priorities identified by respondents . Substance
abuse services ( treatment and recovery services ) was ranked third and after school programs ( including
school - out and summer programs ) was fourth . The lowest ranked supportive services activity according
to respondents was recreation and enrichment for seniors .
Table 14: Supportive Services Priority Activities
Answer Options Highest Medium Low (3) No Need Don't No Response
( 1 ) (2) (4) Know Opinion Count
Youth recreation and 148 196 56 8 8 6 422
enrichment
Services for seniors 155 194 42 9 15 7 422
Seniors recreation and 83 214 86 13 16 7 419
enrichment
Services for persons with 192 178 30 2 16 6 424
disabilities
Childcare services 248 120 33 6 8 11 426
Childcare facilities 225 113 52 8 12 10 420
After-school programs 223 140 37 5 14 5 424
(including school-out and
summer programs)
Support to diverse groups 126 162 89 18 21 6 422
(cultural , minorities, sub-
populations)
Physical health care 182 156 57 12 10 4 421
Mental health care 298 88 23 7 7 4 427
Substance abuse care 229 130 44 3 11 3 420
treatment and recovery)
Crime prevention (such as 160 163 75 9 9 4 420
better street lighting , prevention
programs
Other (please specify) 20
Source: CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 163
OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
Figure 7 : Supportive Services Priority Activities — Number of Highest (1 ) Rankings
Crime prevention (such as better street lighting, prevention
programs )
Substance abuse care (treatment and recovery)
Mental health care
Physical health care
Support to diverse groups (cultural, minorities, sub-
populations)
After-school programs ( including school-out and summer
programs )
Childcare facilities
Childcare services
Services for persons with disabilities
Seniors recreation and enrichment
Services for seniors
Youth recreation and enrichment
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 164
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Table 15 : "Other" Supportive Service Priority Activities Provided by Respondents
Neighborhood organizations and communication networks
Increase minimum wage .
Early programs for youth would help immensely in helping to eliminate later substance use issues . HELP with the
addictions admit there is a problem and build a detox/rehab center!
Lower police budget and use that money for healthcare .
Supportive services for individuals
Childcare facilities that are high quality and developmentally correct
Detox is a priority
There are already great programs in place , but they need to be kept affordable !
If this is specific to homeless and under privilege than health care and mental health support services are high .
Food assistance through sponsorship of programs like The Growing Project and local Community Supported
Agriculture projects
Crime Prevention : Address Poverty and Institutional Violence (criminalization of minorities , police violence , support for
houseless ) . Don'ts end money on street lights andpolice !
What is the role of Health District?
priority on mental health of youth who are the victims of BAD parenting ; parenting TRAINING , support, and
counseling
there are numerous services such as the Senior Center, Aspen Club and others that already meet these needs .
financial programs to understand credit- interest rates, savings , stocks--how it all works . Teach them how to buy
house , etc.
Seems like the City offers a lot of programs, but they continue to serve (for the most part) the same segment. Instead
of increased programming , maybe it's worth increased outreach to recruit more individuals into existing ro rammin .
childcare services need to be affordable to encourage low-income wage earners to get jobs and not pay all their
earnings for daycare !
Specifically Childcare subsidies or sliding scale daycare . The cost of daycare is completely out of control , not to
mention trying to find a facility for an infant so that a mother can return to work if she chooses .
Street lighting is absolutely horrible in Fort Collins ! There should not be complete darkness between streetlamps on
the same residential street!
transportation and places to go when shelters lock their doors
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 165
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Homeless Assistance
Respondents were asked to rank seven activities to meet the needs of individuals and families
experiencing homelessness in Fort Collins . The highest ranked priority was to increase
employment/education support for individuals experiencing homelessness . Increasing healthcare
services ( physical , mental health , dental, substance abuse treatment and recovery for homeless
individuals and households was the second highest ranked activity. Increasing the connection to existing
supportive services for individuals and households experiencing homelessness was the lowest ranked
homeless assistance activity.
Table 16 : Homeless Assistance Priority Activities
Answer Options Highest Medium Low (3) No Need Don't No Response
( 1 ) (2) (4) Know Opinion Count
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE 216 135 37 9 17 4 418
SERVICES (food , clothes,
transportation ) for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Increase HEALTHCARE 247 103 38 10 17 3 418
SERVICES (physical , mental
health , dental , substance
abuse treatment and recovery)
for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Increase 229 137 31 2 16 3 418
EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION
support for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Increase SERVICES 178 155 44 7 29 4 417
CONNECTION support for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of 224 123 40 8 20 3 418
EMERGENCY SHELTERS for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of 247 105 32 10 21 4 419
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (6
mos-2 yrs) for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Increase PERMANENT 209 106 60 20 17 5 417
HOUSING ASSISTANCE for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 166
OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
Figure 7 : Homeless Assistance Priority Activities — Number of Highest (1 ) Rankings
Increase PERMANENT HOUSING ASSISTANCE for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (6 mos-
t yrs) for INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS experiencing
homelessness
Increase the supply of EMERGENCY SHELTERS for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS experiencing homelessness
Increase SERVICES CONNECTION support for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS experiencing homelessness
Increase EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION support for
INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS experiencing homelessness
Increase HEALTHCARE SERVICES ( physical, mental
health, dental, substance abuse treatment and
recovery) for INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS . . .
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (food, clothes,
transportation ) for INDIVIDUALS/HOUSEHOLDS
experiencing homelessness
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 167
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Domestic Violence and Homelessness
Respondents were asked to prioritize activities which address the needs of victims of domestic violence
who are also experiencing homelessness . Seven activities were listed . Increasing the supply of
transitional housing ( 6 months- 2 years ) was ranked as the top needed activity in this area . The second
highest ranked activity was increasing basic supportive services for victims of domestic violence . The
third top priority was increasing healthcare services ( physical , mental health, dental , substance abuse
treatment and recovery) .
Table 17 : Domestic Violence Housing and Services Priority Activities
Answer Options Highest Medium Low No Don't No Response
( 1 ) (2) (3) Need Know Opinion Count
4
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE 216 145 24 4 23 6 418
SERVICES (food , clothes,
transportation ) for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing
homelessness
Increase HEALTHCARE SERVICES 227 117 36 5 28 4 417
(physical , mental health , dental ,
substance abuse treatment and
recovery) for VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC
VIOLENCE experiencing
homelessness
Increase EMPLOYMENT/ 226 119 33 5 28 5 416
EDUCATION support for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing
homelessness
Increase SERVICES CONNECTION 199 142 30 6 31 6 414
SUPPORT for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing
homelessness
Increase the supply of TRANSITIONAL 246 104 28 5 27 5 415
HOUSING (6 mos-2 yrs ) for VICTIMS
OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of EMERGENCY 237 95 37 6 33 5 413
SHELTERS for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing
homelessness
Increase the supply of PERMANENT 198 117 49 15 30 4 413
HOUSING ASSISTANCE for VICTIMS
OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
experiencing homelessness
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 168
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Figure 8 : Domestic Violence Housing and Services Priority Activities— Number of Highest ( 1 ) Rankings
Increase the supply of PERMANENT HOUSING ASSISTANCE for
VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of EMERGENCY SHELTERS for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (6 mos-2 yrs)
for VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing
homelessness
Increase SERVICES CONNECTION SUPPORT for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing homelessness
Increase EMPLOYMENT/ EDUCATION support for VICTIMS OF
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing homelessness
Increase HEALTHCARE SERVICES ( physical, mental health,
dental, substance abuse treatment and recovery) for VICTIMS
OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE experiencing homelessness
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (food, clothes,
transportation ) for VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
experiencing homelessness
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Source : CSI
Table 18 : "Other" Domestic Violence Housing and Services Priorities Identified by Respondents
Increase minimum wage , provide jobs , less stress .
There are already many domestic violence programs compared to the immediate need to treat for substance abuse
Date nice guys instead . . .
FC desperately needs opportunity to purchase affordable homes
It's surprisingly easy to fall through the cracks here , because if married they' ll count your abuser's income against you , and it is that muc
harder dealing with custody issues when your abuser keeps winning power after keeping you from resources for so long . This part of the
judicial system is a wreck and there are few places to turn for genuine help when you don't have much proof of the abuse .
Homelessness is of increasing concern in FC and can't be fixed by turning green spaces where they congregate into parking lots . We m
provide support services aimed to address the underlying reason/cause of homelessness .
Parenting education and support for victims of domestic of domestic violence who are also parents.
LGBT people are HIGHLY vulnerable to domestic violence . Transgender Women MUST have access to these services if they are for otl
women .
What is the role of Crossroads?
There was no "Other" for Homeless - we don't need more services for homeless - that is why they come here because we have the best
food , shelter, clothing , and parks - we are enabling homelessness !
I believe there are numerous non-profits in the community who provide shelters for victims of domestic violence .
I trust that Crossroads Safehouse knows and understands what's needed for this population . I 'm sure they could put a grant to good use
toward addressing the greatest needs, and would benefit from the City's cooperation in making it happen . As far as whether the City woi
be benefiting victims of domestic violence by duplicating services? My opinion is no—that just divides resources and creates confusion .
if DV victims need all the above then they have more prior problems than DV
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 169
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Veterans Experiencing Homelessness
Seven activities to meet the needs of veterans experiencing homelessness were listed . Respondents
identified the highest need as "increasing healthcare services ( physical , mental health, dental , substance
abuse treatment and recovery)" . " Increasing the supply of transitional housing ( 6 mos — 2 yrs )" was the
second highest ranked activity.
Table 19 : Veterans Ex eriencing Homelessness Priority Activities
Answer Options Highest Medium Low (3) No Need Don't No Response
( 1 ) (2) (4) Know Opinion Count
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE 234 114 21 8 34 6 417
SERVICES (food , clothes,
transportation ) for VETERANS
experiencing homelessness
Increase HEALTHCARE 270 74 27 6 29 7 413
SERVICES (physical , mental
health , dental , substance
abuse treatment and recovery)
for VETERANS experiencing
homelessness
Increase EMPLOYMENT/ 234 116 23 7 32 7 419
EDUCATION support for
VETERANS experiencing
homelessness
Increase SERVICES 211 120 32 8 33 8 412
CONNECTION support for
VETERANS experiencing
homelessness
Increase the supply of 230 105 33 6 34 6 414
EMERGENCY SHELTERS for
VETERANS experiencing
homelessness
Increase the supply of 244 95 26 8 33 6 412
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (6
mos-2 yrs) for VETERANS
experiencing homelessness
Increase PERMANENT 222 94 43 12 35 7 413
HOUSING ASSISTANCE for
VETERANS experiencing
homelessness
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 170
OMB Control No : 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015)
Figure 9 : Veterans Experiencing Homelessness Priority Activities— Number of Highest ( 1 ) Rankings
Increase PERMANENT HOUSING ASSISTANCE for VETERANS...
Increase the supply of TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (6 mos-2 .. .
Increase the supply of EMERGENCY SHELTERS for VETERANS .. .
Increase SERVICES CONNECTION support for VETERANS...
Increase EMPLOYMENT/ EDUCATION support for VETERANS ...
Increase HEALTHCARE SERVICES ( physical, mental health, ...
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (food, clothes, ...
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Source : CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 171
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Homeless Youth Under Age 25 Experiencing Homelessness
Responses indicated that the two most needed activities serving homeless youth are
employment/education support ( 1 ), and , health care services ( 2 ) including physical , mental health,
dental , substance abuse treatment and recovery . Permanent housing assistance for youth under 25
was the lowest ranked activity according to respondents .
Table 20 : Homeless Youth under 25 — Housing and Services Priority Activities
Answer Options Highest Medium Low (3) No Need Don't No Response
(1 ) (2) (4) Know Opinion Count
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE 206 131 38 16 24 2 417
SERVICES (food , clothes,
transportation) for YOUTH
UNDER AGE 25 experiencing
homelessness
Increase HEALTH CARE 231 111 37 13 24 1 417
SERVICES (physical , mental
health , dental , substance
abuse treatment and recovery)
for YOUTH UNDER AGE 25
experiencing homelessness
Increase 269 92 22 11 23 1 418
EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION
support for YOUTH UNDER
AGE 25 experiencing
homelessness
Increase SERVICES 201 132 40 14 25 3 415
CONNECTION support for
YOUTH UNDERAGE 25
experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of 215 117 38 15 29 2 416
EMERGENCY SHELTERS for
YOUTH UNDERAGE 25
experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of 214 116 35 16 29 4 414
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (6
mos-2 yrs) for YOUTH UNDER
AGE 25 experiencing
homelessness
Increase PERMANENT 168 120 66 28 28 4 414
HOUSING ASSISTANCE for
YOUTH UNDER 25
experiencing homelessness
Source: CSI
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 172
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Figure 10 : Homeless Youth under 25 - Housing and Services Priority Activities- Number of Highest ( 1 )
Rankings
Increase PERMANENT HOUSING ASSISTANCE for YOUTH
UNDER 25 experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of TRANSITIONAL HOUSING ( 6 mos-2 yrs)
for YOUTH UNDER AGE 25 experiencing homelessness
Increase the supply of EMERGENCY SHELTERS for YOUTH
UNDER AGE 25 experiencing homelessness
Increase SERVICES CONNECTION support for YOUTH UNDER
AGE 25 experiencing homelessness
Increase EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION support for YOUTH
UNDER AGE 25 experiencing homelessness
Increase HEALTH CARE SERVICES ( physical, mental health,
dental, substance abuse treatment and recovery) for YOUTH
UNDER AGE 25 experiencing homelessness
Increase BASIC SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (food, clothes,
transportation ) for YOUTH UNDER AGE 25 experiencing
homelessness
0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Source: CSI
Table 21 : "other" Homeless Youth under 25 - Housing and Services Priority Activities from
Respondents
Get police out of schools , use money to provide jobs training .
Kids are far more likely to have support from friends than adults .
Affordable housing options should be there highest priority
I kind of feel they youngest are just stuck for not having the ability to stick with healthy routines and
education , but that most can be pretty resourceful . I hope to discourage freeloading otherwise
though , and can say this based off of my own encounters with at-risk youth , when I was one .
Please support more housing options like Redtail Ponds . Permanent supportive housing is proven
to work.
Veterans liaisons to help veterans navigate through VA benefits - many don't follow up due to the
red tape and stalling
teach them financial education so there not back on the street
Foster care is NOT the answer. LCDHS fails families .
Other information about the questionnaire
There were 426 people who answered the question which asked what means they used to respond to
the questionnaire . The majority of respondents completed the questionnaire online using a computer.
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 173
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Forty two respondents reported using a smart phone . 8 respondents completed paper copies of the
questionnaire .
The majority of respondents reported learning about the questionnaire on The City of Fort Collins
website and through the City' s many non - profit provider partners .
Table 22 : Method for Completing Questionnaire
Answer Options Response Response
Percent Count
On-line using a computer 75 . 1 % 320
On-line using a tablet 5 .2% 22
On a paper copy 8 . 7% 37
Electronically through a Smart Phone App 9 .9% 42
Other leasespecify) 1 .2% 5
Answered question 426
Source : CSI
Table 23 : How Respondents Learned About Questionnaire
Answer Options Response Response
Percent Count
Newspaper 6 . 3% 27
Radio 0 .2% 1
City of Fort Collins website 18 . 3% 79
City of Fort Collins Social Media 9. 5% 41
Facebook, Twitter
General Social Media 12 . 8% 55
General word-of-mouth 7 . 0% 30
Non-profit agency staff 24 .4% 105
Housing provider staff 5. 1 % 22
Faith community 1 . 6% 7
Other leasespecify) 14 . 8% 64
Answered question 431
Source : CSI
Comments provided by respondents
The questionnaire offered respondents an opportunity to comment and/or provide their ideas about
housing, community development, economic development, supportive services and homelessness
needs in Fort Collins . Submitted comments were wide- ranging . Several respondents stated they believe
there is a need for increasing affordable housing options and improving the existing public
transportation system to better line up with employment schedules of residents . Increasing child care
assistance for parents in school and increasing support for small businesses were suggested . In addition
to affordable housing, respondents stated a need for coordinating supportive services and affordable
housing at a higher level .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 174
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Lack of affordable after-school options for working parents was a gap noted by one respondent .
Affordable housing for elderly people, families and people with disabilities is lacking according to one
comment . Increasing traffic congestion , and aggressive driving were noted concerns .
Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 175
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Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 176
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Appendix 6
2015 = 2019 Consolidated Plan
Community Questionnaire :
Individual Respondent Comments
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Consolidated Plan FORT COLLINS 178
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If you would like to add any comments or idead about HOUSING, COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SUPPORTIVE SERVICES and
HOMELESSNESS needs in Fort Collins, please include them here .
Individual respondent comments :
There is no reason why anyone should be housed in their vehicle, out in the environment, at a shelter, or at
a church . Housing is a Human Right ! Everyone must have a decent home to reside . Once a person has a
stable home, they, they can deal with everything else in their lives . For example, finding employment, taking
care of their health and whatever other challenges they have . I have contacted our Mayor and City Council
suggesting that the City of FC adopt the Housing First approach principles which many cities and towns
through the US have done . Everyone — adults, children and youth — need a permanent — stable home first,
and then they can take care of other aspects of their lives . Not all Affordable Housing is actually affordable
to the population who desperately need housing . This must change . Housing For All ! Rents continue to
increase in leaps and bounds . When the rent amount, for example, allocated for Section 8 housing hasn't
increased . I realize that our Congress and Senators are able to increase these amounts but we can 't wait for
this to happen . We must act now. One example, for instance, in regards to the Section 8 program — there
are not enough One Bedroom units for one person that are up to rental amounts in the area . Can the City of
FC institute a policy or law where all rentals — the amount of rent on any unit, cannot increase more than
1%? And, in addition , as with other cities throughout the US. A person always has a security deposit on a
rental unit . Can FC institute a law where landlords/owners reimburses the tenant 1% of their security
deposit for each year of their tenancy when they eventually move . I know that San Francisco has such a
policy in their Tenant Law . I feel deeply that the Priority is HOUSING FOR ALL. Then, the next priority for
people in our community is Health Care . — all aspects of Health Care . And again, Healthcare is a human right
for all . No matter what one' s financial ability, age, etc . Can the City house people in buildings that are
empty? To refurbish them temporarily until permanent housing is established ? Can the City work or
coordinate with other agencies and organizations, i . e . university, to find out what building can be used to
house people in our community? The City needs to have more permanent low cost decent housing for
everyone . How about creating a Fort Collins Health Cooperative ? Health Care for All ? The Coop would cover
many areas and aspects of health . For example, Western Medicine, alternative medicine, naturopath ,
homeopath , dental, etc . The City of FC can adopt and implement "The Precautionary Principle" . Do no harm
to the residents and our environment . The City of San Francisco has implemented this principal
as other communities throughout the US have — FC needs to be with this . For everyone's sake and our
children . An official composting program for businesses — City can offer business incentives . If CSU can have
a composting program in its cafeterias — we can be with this City-wide . Many people in our community are
trapped in "food prisons", addicted to unhealthy foods, unable to access whole food, or unaware of how to
eat healthily because they never learned how. I know that much of the food donated to the Food Bank isn't
organic . It is commercial food, processed food with artificial ingredients, and GMOs . Of course, you can 't
force someone to be with anything — but how can the City help individuals understand and gain knowledge
about "healthy foods" ? About nutrition, food preparation , etc? People don 't have money or the financial
means to pay for classes and many people might be "turned off" by attending a class . So, how to make
this fun ? Maybe connect with the Extension Service ? Or another organization ? Community gardens all over
FC — keep it local — support local business — fix and repair infrastructure and hire local - Stop subsidizing Big
Business and corporations . Extend Max and Bus Service to Sundays and later in evenings and more
frequent service . Also — have a minimum wage of $ 15/hour for everyone in Fort Collins . I ' d be more than
happy to meet with folks with the City regarding these matters . [ phone number not published ]
Rent needs to decrease citywide .
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Housing is ridiculously expensive here . I don 't know if we can even purchase home ever while living here
and we would really like to stay. I would like to see more assistance for home purchase for low to medium
income households .
Develop a program to help first time homebuyers . Maybe getting them connected with older people who
don 't want a big house anymore .
My aunt is a single woman who survived a double mastectomy from cancer 2 years ago . She is still on wait
list for housing. She ' s not a senior yet . She has been deemed disabled due to pain and nerve damage etc
from chemo . She needs a place to live . She is threatened daily she will be kicked out of her current
situation . But since it ' s not a partner she can 't really get help .
We are a middle class family of 2 and want to buy a home in the old town area . We have been outbid 4
times by people paying cash and flipping homes for rentals . I ' d love to see better assistance programs for
families like ours that are struggling to make this our permanent home .
Consider small , tumbleweed -style housing solutions PLEASE . Small upfront costs, small maintenance costs,
small bills, small footprint, big autonomy for inhabitants .
Businesses need to pay living wages . $ 7- 10/hour with no health benefits is not enough for someone to live
on in this community.
Talk to Denver Rescue Mission about moving to a larger vacant facility, such as the old Fort Ram building
which has been vacant for years or the old Albertsons on North College . The City could also work with the
owners of the old Albertsons to find a new tenant for that building that would provide more shopping and
employment opportunities on the North end . It seems like a good location for a Target, Kmart, Sears or
Menards . I ' m not aware of a Menards in Fort Collins but we get their advertising in the Coloradoan .
Bring jobs home (tariffs ) . Employment like CCC, cut down diseased trees, make other products . Stop
rewarding companies for efficiency firing.
I would like to see more projects modeled after Redtail Ponds . I have been a housing coordinator for the
disabled population in Larimer County for 30 years and I would encourage the City of Fort Collins to partner
more directly with non- profit, religious and others providing many of these same services .
I believe that as a " College Town " we need to adopt the philosophy that Greeley has with UNC . The
Students must live within a pre-determined radius of the College . Then that would open up specific areas of
town for rental to year round residents . Property Management Companies and independent landlords,
should be governed by specific laws that are equally fair to both Leaser and Lessee . They need to be laws
that can and will be enforced by the Housing Authority, Health Department as well as the Judicial System,
There needs to be a cap on residential rentals making them affordable to the year round residents of Fort
Collins, based on minimum wage and a 30% of monthly income ratio . This will assist in helping families
prevent the possibility of homelessness and assist the homeless population in obtaining permanent housing .
# 12 leaves no room for comment but we pay taxes for the VA to care for these people, fix the VA for these
veterens
One room / shared shower should be no more than $400 / month . Crack down on greedy landloards and
developers .
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remember when you increase services and education for homelessness you have to create housing options
i . e . affordable or subsidized housing ( places to be) to accommodate the services and education provided .
more w/c accessible rentals would help . . . accessible homes aren 't just easier for people in a wheelchair,
they make it easier for anyone
I understand the dilema of people facing homelessness . I also recognize that there is a difference between
the homeless population and the transient " population " - with the quotes signifying that they choose to be
transients and are not part of the truely permanent population of any given area . I believe that when
people complain about the behavior/presence/problem of the homeless, the real problems stem from the
transient population . I understand that some transients may have mental health issues, but there are very
many who will not or cannot make any changes to their behaviors or conditions outside of being locked up,
which is not a true solution to their issues . I have known some people who live the transient lifestyle . They
have a strong network with which to keep in touch with others and to find out where it is ok / not ok to go
and spend time . Many do not really and truly CARE about themselves or others, they only want to hang out
and indulge whatever pleases them in the moment. It is a sad place to be, from our perspectives, but it is
quite often a place that they have chosen , and whereby they can avoid any sense of responsibility . I realize
that this probably sounds judgemental to you , but I am speaking from a reality perspective rather than an
idealistic one . If you google " housing first" you will find connections to a type of program that has proven
quite successful in other cities and states to help people overcome obstacles to their stability. I hope that
we can implement this type of program here .
Fort Collins has evolved into an elitist community as all of the option for the purchase of single family
homes are only available to the rich . Fort Collins needs actively encourage, support and provide incentive ' s
for the development of affordable single family neighborhoods so that Fort Collins can be a balanced
community.
More affordable housing for Families and individuals . . increase number of 1 bedroom apartments designed
for low income and individuals with disabilities
That three unrelated ordinance poses a threat to individuals who cannot afford housing without sharing
with several other roommates or to multiple families cohabitating . Also, the zoning codes for occupancy
should have more allotments for duplex construction/ addition to current homes, to provide for home type
living ( not apartment living) for more members of the community, at lower costs in existing neighborhoods .
Sometimes I feel we aren 't lacking support we are lacking " buy in " of those that need it . And , you can lead a
horse to water but you can 't make him drink. Having Rules (which I believe in ) keeps many from using the
services . Drug use and mental illness topping the list of reasons folks are making poor choices
I would like to see programs that are developed that " help " people achieve independence rather that
designing programs that are handouts . Those that are able to work ( even minimally) need to contribute
something for the tax dollar support they receive . I totally support providing financial assistance and
community services to assist people during challenging times so they can get back on their feet . Let ' s be
leaders in designing productive programs that are more than free handouts .
I downgraded all permanent housing options because I feel the situation needs to be reconsidered after
stabilization . Maybe a person wants to move for a job, or family would have them at home if they were
sober. With education, they may afford regular rent. One step at a time . Plus, home ownership is a deep
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obligation that may never be appropriate — it involves more risk of unexpected troubles that could ruin a
shaky financial boat .
Number one priority is affordable rental housing for low income families with children .
Developing additional affordable housing should be a HIGH PRIORITY for the City of Fort Collins . Families
with low wage/minimum wage jobs cannot afford the current rents . We are becoming elitist, & it is
shameful !
I think it is important to provide support and care for people seeking to improve their situation .
Unfortunately I have also seen situations where the City of Fort Collins policies are much too lax with regard
to people with substance abuse problems and who do not want to improve their situation, and this then
creates safety problems . For example, there are homeless people who use the downtown library as a place
to hang out and smoke and surf the internet. I used to like to spend time relaxing at the library. Now I run in
and get my books, and leave . I am tired of the smoke, and seeing arguments between the men who hang
out there . I fully support homeless people who want to read and get information from the library. But the
City of Fort Collins policies aren 't strong enough to police the people who hang out and smoke and argue
and create problems . So I have lost the library as a place to sit outside and relax and read a book . Or
Martinez Park and the Poudre River trails . I used to like to walk there, but this summer homeless people
were hanging out in the Martinez Park picnic shelter, and also camp in the woods . It isn 't relaxing to go
walking alone there anymore, so I get less walking and exercise . Another sad example is the Aztlan Rec
Center. I used to go there almost weekly . Unfortunately it has become a hang out for homeless men . I have
been repeatedly followed and harassed by men there . When I complained to Aztlan management, they
agreed that there were some men who regularly created problems, but that the City law required that ( after
a brief time of having to leave ) the disruptive men had to be allowed back in . Because of this I now go to a
private gym, but not everyone can afford that . I would rather be able to go to the community center.
Because of my experience losing the downtown library, and Martinez Park and walking trails, and the Aztlan
center as safe " community" places, I feel that it is very important for the City of Fort Collins to reclaim them
as safe spaces for low income people (and for everyone else, too ) .
Again help those who really want the help and will stay in the programs, not the career homeless transients
There are clearly a lot of displaced people who need places to be, and a diminishing number of places for
them to go .
There are two basic things we as a community can work on to improve the lives of low income and
homeless Fort Collins citizens . 1 ) We can increase the amount of
The better we make Fort Collins to live for the less fortunate, the better it will be for the whole community.
Creating partnership with landlords and agencies for housing at- rick individuals, or people who might not
have a great rental history, etc . would be wonderful . Also, affordable 1 bedroom apartments or studios
would be fantastic !
I feel like incentivizing businesses and developers to continue elitist habits is detrimental to the very fiber of
our city, and that the face of this town has changed drastically from these efforts enough that it can sustain
it' s own growth just fine . It ' s just that the people that were here already are being pushed out and unable to
maintain even close to this new quality. Mind you, I ' ll never say I don 't appreciate the neat improvements,
but that it is leaving too many people behind . Thank you for the opportunity to do the survey . PS . I just
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finally got housing again myself, thanks in no small part to the dedication of everyone at Murphy Center,
Neighbor to Neighbor, Catholic Charities, the Mission, Salvation Army and the Food Bank . Now I hope to be
able to maintain health and affordability to not only keep it going, but to have enough remaining resource
and energy to give back to those still stuck in the vicious and demoralizing, and seemingly endless cycle of
fear of scarcity, and for all those remarkable people I 've been so privileged to meet who are still out there
keeping hope alive, even as they are relegated to the cold .
The city would benefit from a direct program aimed at preventing homelessness . This is done in a number
of ways : 1 . General services such as education, job training/placement, etc. 2 . Short term housing and utility
assistance for individuals at- risk for homelessness or loss of basic needs (food, water, electricity, gas, etc . ) 3 .
Long-term housing assistance . Large scale communities that supply housing for chronic homeless
individuals . To go along with these services, the city should consider investing in mental health/substance
abuse treatment and prevention . A disproportionate number of homeless individuals suffer from these
diagnoses and as long as these conditions are untreated or undertreated, sustaining housing and
employment is a virtual impossibility . Two direct interventions should be investigated by the city. First :
Housing First projects . These have been shown to work in numerous communities and have the potential to
save money long term through reductions in arrest, ER visits, etc. Second : create a social services task force
that brings all social service providers together and facilitates collaboration . This will amplify services
provided and increase efficiency. I would be happy to assist further, if needed . My personal email is : [ not
published ] .
Housing is definitely the number on issue for people who are suffering from homelessness or at severe risk
of being homeless . Even when a section 8 voucher is issued, there are not enough options for housing and
often a security deposit is required to get in which most cannot come up with .
I feel the community would really benefit in more preventative actions against homelessness . Specifically
with rent assistance . There are only 2 established rent assistance agencies here in Fort Collins . If you do not
qualify for them or if you need more than they offer, you are still out of housing and fast . Keeping people
and families in their homes will help a lot . Keeping someone in their home requires a lot less money and
resources than try to help someone who has fallen into homelessness get out .
I hate . Being Homeless
Get rid of U +2 in fort Collins . That would make housing for college students more affordable .
The housing first model seems to be working for many communities . It ' s difficult to address issues such as
physical health, mental health , and substance abuse when you don 't know where you ' ll be sleeping . The
shelters ' residence programs last month ' s while the housing wait lists are years . Some people have to turn
down jobs because the jobs are for the night shift and they have no where to sleep during the day. Others
put off medical treatment for the same reason, no where to sleep or at during the day while they are
supposed to be recovering. Many could address other issues if they had safe housing first . It' s Maslow' s
hierarchy of
needs .
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input.
Thankfully there are organizations like Christ Church who are taking in women and children this winter. We
need a more permanent shelter and more support for children especially. I am a teacher in Poudre School
District and more than 1,000 of our students are experiencing homelessness . We just voted on a
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$ 17,000, 000 shelter for domestic animals, which aren 't even a part of our ecosystem or community. We
should be able to do even more for our people . Many members of our community are concerned that we
are going to " attract" more homeless people if we provide more services . Fort Collins is a good community
with an abundance of resources and if we can be a beacon of hope and help for those who need it and
decrease the level of need in our state and country, than that is not a negative thing at all - that is what the
rest of the world ought to be doing. My family earns quite a bit below the mean income in Fort Collins
(according to the information presented at the beginning of this survey), and we are willing to be a part of a
combined effort to make our community a better place for everyone, the homeless included . I want all of
my students to have all the resources they can get . Thank you very much .
Affordable housing needs are urgent .
This town needs a Tiny Home Community ! They are affordable & attractive !
I believe we need to be showing people the economic and health benefits of living a less materialistic
lifestyle . And the drastic lifestyle improvements that couldcome, most critically for low income individuals
and households, from buying from and supporting local businesses .
Sending people to jail/prison for things like drugs, sleeping in public, loitering, and petty theft CREATES
more of these problems . More police means more people being criminalized , means MORE homeless and
impoverished people . Gentrifying neighborhoods creates poverty and houseless people . Spend less money
on institutions that create poverty and thus crime and houselessness . Spend more money on giving people
safe spaces to sleep and be during the day, and permanent housing ( like funding a tiny homes project) .
Thank you .
All services should be monitored closely to best support those whom are willing to help themselves, to put
restrictions on anyone abusing or over utilizing the
systems in place after a specific amount of time .
I think more needs to be done to help the almost homeless . I 've called 411, and they were not able to help
me and the two organizations that they said might be able to help had so many hoops to jump through that
I could not get help in a timely fashion . There are many many many people struggling that are not homeless
YET, we should be proactive and keep these people in their homes vs . just trying to help them once they get
there . I was lucky to have a kind landlord, otherwise I and my family would have been homeless because
there were no services to help ( I realize that there is some rental assistance, but the amount offered for
what you have to do to get it does not make it worth it. I was told to call a certain number, during a 3 hour
window offered one day a month . If I was lucky enough to have someone answer, I might be booked for an
interview . If I got an interview, I might be lucky enough to get $300 towards rent. Considering my rent was
$950 at the time, I thought the program was a joke . Since this was my only viable option when I called 411,
it tells me that there is much more work to do in helping the almost homeless . )
Thanks for letting me take part in the survey. This is a huge undertaking . I ' m glad to see the City taking steps
in the right direction .
Affordable housing has been an issue for decades . We need integrated SES neighborhoods to provide for
better opportunities for single parent households .
Affordable housing for low to mid income earners is a need .
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Repeal U +2 ordinance .
As a non - profit director we so appreciate the funding we receive for our families who cannot afford mental
health and substance abuse services . The need for education and early intervention with mental health and
substance abuse issues is critical . We can provide services for affordable housing which is critical, however
mental health substance abuse issues are a priority as well . If these issues are not addressed it would seem
that the families ' will continue to struggle with homelessness .
Let the homelessness with cars sleep at the rest area and let the state troops know it ' s ok to do so cause
they ran me and a few others off
Our community needs a lot more shelter space for homeless families, and more transitional housing for
homeless families and victims of domestic violence .
I am appalled that the city is relying on the non profit organizations to fill a need that is the city' s
responsibility. The religious non profits push their agenda and they are allowed to discriminate against
people under the guises of religious freedom . This must STOP .
I believe that we as a community can bring an end to the diverse homeless populations in Ft Collins . No one
should, absolutely no one should be without decent shelter to live in, where once was named , and still is
"the choice city" for a reason . . I love FOCO ! I 've lived here my whole life . I know we can and will end the
homeless population in and around the Fort . It should be of the " highest need " as a community to do
whatsoever with all our resources to end homelessness and
become a role model if you will, to all other cities across this region and state . IT' S a huge task and by the
grace of God we all can and will meet their desperate need for help . Thank you
I ' d like to see more readily available information about what we are doing for homeless families/individuals.
Doing this survey was revealing as far as understanding my lack of understanding about what services are
available and to whom . Transparency. Better reporting by the Coloradoan . We see people in Jefferson Park.
We read very limited and frankly, sub- par reporting in the Coloradoan . Help us be better informed citizens .
Tiny homes are being considered and used in numerous towns around the country : Portland , OR; Austin , TX;
Madison , WI , to name a few. This would be a great way to quickly help our homeless population .
While all types of services are important, affordable housing is probably one of the biggest problems in our
community. Emergency and Transitional Housing for all populations should be the top priority across the
board , and permanent housing next.
We really need to provide more comprehensive support to the houeless and disadvantaged citizens of Fort
Collins . Emergency shelters for cold nights are critical ,
but a more important thing is getting them into transitional housing so that they can receive mental and
physical care and get back on their feet . Hopefully a comprehensive rehabilitation clinic would allow them
to get to the point where they can afford housing, but affordable housing is critical .
I would like to see the You plus Two Housing Occupancy Law reformed or revoked, allowing landlords and
homeowners to choose whether or not they are comfortable with more than 3 unrelated individuals to live
with each other. This is something that could be implemented right rather quickly, would make affordable
housing more available with more people paying rent on a single home, and I personally do not see a
positive function to this law . There are plenty of houses that have more than 3 bedrooms in this city that
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could easily accommodate more individuals, and I have seen many functional houses in and out of fort
collins that have more than three tenants living in them . I would also like to see fewer condos catering to
middle- upper class implants going up and more low income housing and shelter facilities for the homeless
population and low income families/individuals already living in Fort Collins .
I support a Housing First approach toward homeless services in Fort Collins . I also think that temporary
shelter options need to be expanded so that we can getmore families, couples, children , LGBT individuals,
and other under-served persons out of the cold .
We need lockers for people who are homeless .
It would be wonderful to have affordable housing in nice areas for people who needs it or programs to
gradually move into nicer housing after starting at a not as
nice location .
City needs to allocate more money to address homelessness -- more emergency, temporary and transitional
housing . Simply harassing homeless people by police sweeps of homeless camps is offensive and must stop .
Bridges is a great program, but meets on Thurs evenings, when no day care is available and/or many are
working service jobs . Need emergency services and then managers to help all these people in crisis to
navigate the systems available to them . Guidance, direction and support for the person, other things will be
able to fall in to place, like getting a job . When people are " broken " they don 't keep jobs or housing, need to
help that first and have the transitional short term services during that time .
Housing and childcare are two needs that are extremely expensive, especially for lower income people . It
seems so simple : either they need to make more money or be able to find less expensive housing and
childcare to make ends meet . Go ask the people that are in need of these services where the gaps are . I ' m
sure they would have more meaningful feedback for you .
Our community is becoming a place where it is nearly unlivable even for persons with two parent
households who are employed ( myself) let alone housing/employment availability for people who have any
employment barriers . I think our community needs diversity and that comes hand in hand with employment
and housing opportunities . There is a huge divide between the poor and the rich and unless we make
significant changes to address these issues it will become a predominately white, elitist community and
therefore one that I do not want to be a part of. There needs to be more housing available that is not
obscenely priced and employment opportunities to assist families in supporting a basic lifestyle .
I think we need to support local homelessness issues, and not cater to transients . They are draining our
resources .
I believe the best solutions come from partnerships, so the City alone should not try to be a safety net for
every person experiencing homelessness . There is synergy when the faith community and non -profits work
with the government to achieve long-lasting solutions and not just handouts of money/assistance . I believe
assistance should be short term with the goal in mind of self-sufficiency .
Increase awareness of all of the above in this community.
We have plenty of these services now, most homeless people are already taking the assistance . Those who
are not using these services, don 't want to ! !
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Great lists . All are needed !
There should be an emphasis to make " affordable housing" truly affordable .
Transitional housing is not a best practice . Time limited housing rarely is enough . Permanent supportive
housing is a best practice
I don 't think homeless support should depend on your circumstances . Were you in the military? Were you a
voctim of domestic violence ? Are you under 25 ? These things may drive the type of support but anyone
who is homeless is needing some support . As a world class community we need to be providing that support
in a world class way. Differentiating between homeless populations implies some are more deserving of
support than others . While I can agree that some have made bad decisions along the way and others have
been more of a victim of circumstance, when it is -4 degrees outside the immediate issue is that we need to
get all of the homeless inside and then we can begin to assess how best to address the issue for the future
based on individual circumstances .
all question need Other ( please specify) box. felt one sided . happy to see your asking for citizen input. Most
of the homeless are a bunch of young kids working
the system . The kids call themselves " Crunchy"
Transportation challenges exist for all populations of homeless and near homeless . Fort Collins and
surrounding communities need a coordinated endeavor to help people to move from less expensive housing
outside of Fort Collins to services that exist in Fort Collins . Also transportation challenges within Fort Collins .
Our community will only be as strong as our weakest members . To continue on the road of making Fort
Collins one of most valuable communities in Colorado I believe we must begin at the bottom and work our
way up . I moved to Fort Collins in 2009 and have to say I ' m proud to live in this city ! Unfortunately, rent in
Fort Collins is out of control . How will homelessness in Larimer County end if rents continue to soar? I would
like to live out the rest of my life in Larimer County but am fearful I will not be able as rent takes over half of
my income and I work for Larimer County !
As someone who falls in approximately the 60% AMI category in Fort Collins, I ' m often frustrated by the
affordable housing discussion — and what is left out of it . I own a modest home, and was shocked at the
amount of its cost that came as a result of water tap, city permits, taxes and fees . Sure, the cost of living in
Fort Collins is increased by high wage-earners from major employers here, and high prices paid by wealthy
college kids ' out-of-state parents . . . but for those of us just getting by, bearing the burden of artificially
created " affordability" in the housing market makes it that much more difficult for us to stay out of the
system . I ' m sure there are needs for people who have fallen on hard times — but that money has to come
from somewhere, and many of us aren 't doing so great ourselves . If funding more services is going to result
in people in situations like mine needing to begin receiving aid instead of giving it, then it' s not helpful to
anyone . As such , I ' m more receptive of services — emergency shelter, transitional housing, job training and
counseling— designed to help people who are receiving aid into people who can then give back sooner.
We need to keep in mind that those who are in need of help are human beings and that they need to be
treated with respect . They deserve every right that those with resourses to live . When people are treated
with respect they deliver respect . It is hard to live a positive productive life when the living conditions that
you are in are unsafe and cold . If you are lucky enough to have a place out of the elements, then you should
not be forced to pay more for the heat bill than for your monthly grocery bill .
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Transportation for kids to their school when they are in temp housing is important . There ' s a huge need for
affordable housing that I see daily at my work as a social worker. There are some great agencies doing great
work and they would do more with more support .
Some of the services to low-income households needs to include education about basic finances, budgeting,
and nutrition education so they can make healthy meals on a limited budget. Teach them how to avoid the
convenience food trap for health and financial reasons .
For single parents going to school in Larimer County they should allow CCAP to cover daycare expenses for
time going to class
Work closely with non - profits and faith based organizations whenever possible .
I don 't know enough about the needs of veterans and youth who are homeless nor what percent of the
homeless population they represent . Some answers are based on the fact there are currently agencies
serving these groups' needs .
I think that Fort Collins needs more affordable housing and housing assistance for Homeless Youth .
What about seniors experiencing homelessness?
Mental Health services are greatly needed .
Providing services for all these groups helps to build a stronger community all together. Often times these
groups overlap, so adding prevention and helping services in turn will serve all of these populations in a
better way
Early childhood education and school readiness - not just childcare
The thing is there ' s so many unfilled jobs right now because nobody can afford to live here, and homeless
people get in a cycle and they need services to break it . We need affordable housing and more services .
Showers, washing machines, lockers, permitted camping/sleeping for homeless .
Homelessness support should not extend to those who are merely freeloaders . You (those in the
community and government who administer and support these programs ) are doing a great dis-service to
those who are truly in need of help, by packaging them with those who want a subsidy for there chosen
transient lifestyle . When transient " homeless " have dogs, bicycle trailers, cell phones and laptops, if makes
most people who would like to aid or support programs for the homeless to turn their attention to other
community needs .
This is a huge problem effecting our community and our world . I was recently homeless with a section 8
because there were no low income apts available . Increase in the price of rentals has skyrocketed while my
SSDI check stays the same . I was given a list of 2 pages of landlords that take section 8 80% were above my
allowed payment, 20% were full . I am living in a low income housing community where parents let their
children run around uncared for and disrespecting other peoples needs and property. I would almost rather
be homeless than to live here . I feel that properties are built to house people but if the community doesn 't
take care of the needs of the people living in them and have rules that help keep that community clean and
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renters property respected . There are playgrounds here a park near by, but parent let there children play in
the parking lot and scratch cars climb on other peoples bikes, play on your patio . scream ride bikes in the
parking area . They have been hit by cars, it is like a free for all .They do not spend time with their, children
they only come out to smoke . We do not need more parks and playgrounds for parents who dont take time
to play with their children . We need education and rules . We need more housing so people have a choice to
live even if they are low income they need choices . I am single I raised my child and I am going crazy living in
a place where children are not taught right from wrong. Where they reach out for anyone who will give
them them eye contact . Where they run around shooting guns at each other as a daily play. (yes boys did
that when we were young) does that make it right . I wish I had options, but even if i could get out of my
lease and find a place with respect, I dont have moving expense money or money for deposits . I am STUCK
and that is a one of the problems of the system . I cant get out. We need ways to get out of the system . I
went to Voc. Rehab, got a degree, but the system wont let me out . We want people out of the system give
them an OUT. Sorry for my rant, but I am passionate about how I have gotten stuck in this system and I
want out of it . Thank you for your time .
Housing for moderate income earners is way too expensive
It sounds awful - but I believe that the homeless population that is so prevalent all over Old Town and at
times, frightening encounters with these people is very bad for security, and economic growth - the mission
should be ANYWHERE but in the heart of Old Town !
Increase quality low-income housing for all . Fort Collins needs more units Norris' s ( ? ) . The vacancy rate is
too low and waiting lists for vouchers and low income units is too long
It seems this survey really only wants to cover certain groups of people . It does not address the need for
more affortable housing for college students, faculty, young professionals and their families in Fort Collins .
Housing is TOO expensive for what the local wages support in the area .
LCDHS creates problems for parents when they remove children instead of help solve the stable housing
problem . Then parents don 't qualify for housing OR lose their housing without their kids . I think its so wrong
that CPS won 't help parents but will take their kids . Then taxpayers pay for foster care while the parents
struggle to meet unreasonable demands of CPS. They are part of the problem and have no oversight . Or
complaint process
Accessible transportation
In some places, train tracks need to be fixed . On Hickory Street, the train tracks are in very bad condition -
fixing them is very necessary . It is urgent that we fix at least this part, because a lot of vehicles have to cross
here .
I live in the [ mobile home] park at Harmony and Timberlone and it needs more lighting. There are parts
where there is not much light and it does not seem safe at night . Thank you - we need a park close that has
shops, not just for recreation .
We need a better center in the outskirts of the City where we could help more people who do not have a
place to live, where they don 't have to struggle to getdowntown for services, and they don 't have to worry
to find a place to park and get to services downtown - somewhere easier to access .
( paraphrasing translation,which is hard to read and understand in Spanish ) . . .there are people who don 't
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have food , a place to stay, they don ' t have clothes, or a house . Need more help for kids, single mothers that
can 't provide for their kids, more food, clothing, housing for poor people .
more safety for our children ( less violence )
More help (JOBS) for Hispanics
Dental health, safety (gangs, theft )
If you have any other GENERAL comments about COMMUNITY NEEDS you ' d like
to share with us, please include them below . Questionnaire reulst will be
shared on the City' s website and at an Open House scheduled for January 12,
2015 . Check www . fcgov . com /socialsutainability for updates and information .
Thanks for your help and time !
Individual respondent comments :
thank you for the continued help of the fool bank and churches
Thank god for you guys
Our city used to be affordable for middle class families . Now we are being pushed out due to increasing rent
costs . We are a single- income family, trying to raise responsible children in a fashion similar to how we were
raised . We love Fort Collins and have spent almost ten years here . It ' s sad to watch my friends struggle to
maintain the low key lifestyle that used to come easily to us all . Please find ways to decrease rent and food
costs .
Please ask members of specific groups what they need - I have never been homeless, a victim of domestic
abuse, or a veteran so I can 't make a judgment on their most important needs .
I believe the community would benefit from more access to purchasing a home but also fiber optic internet
service like they are implementing in Longmont .
Ft collins is increasingly expensive to live in . We had to move out due to cost of living. We moved to
loveland which was cheaper when we did so . There needs to be more housing for elderly, disabled and
families . Quality housing . I have a friend who has been moved 3 times in an apartment complex that had
water in the light fixtures and black mold . Ridiculous that some one had to call before this was taken care
of. As previously stated my aunt is a single woman who is not yet a senior. And has been waiting on housing
for 2 + years .
lighting in the streets
I appreciate the effort put into bettering the community, however, this survey is too long and frustrating.
Help with Job or Working
Raise minimum wage, provide jobs (CCC) . Vote for party of the 99% ( Democrats) then communicate with
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your Senator/Representative (State and Fed . ) of needs to get you vote next election . Rid of Citizens United
so individuals have a chance at financing their candidates .
affordable housing
Do not allow police or anybody else to issue tickets for camping. This serves no constructive purpose
whatsoever.
One community need that is not addressed here is that of streets and traffic and rudeness . . . I think more
traffic cameras would help to slow down the speeding traffic in general . If it were within any budgeting,
more police on the streets would help as well . Every time that I am out driving within Fort Collins and
towards Loveland I see aggressive and stupid driving almost continuously, including speeding ( 10+ over
limit ), tailgating, looking at phones/texting, harassment, etc. . .
I believe Fort Collins must make affordable housing a top priority. We absolutely must provide affordable
options for people living in Fort Collins . The opportunity to purchase affordable single family homes is at
critical juncture . Land north of Old Town would be a great location for affordable single family housing as it
is close to Old Town and employers and is easily accessible by bus or bicycle . Fort Collins should provide
financial support and incentives in order to increase the stock of affordable homes .
This questionnaire is written as if Government is the only source for addressing these issues . There is a role
for the private sector and faith based agencies . One question is particular asked if the creation of office
space should be encouraged, along with affordable housing; I don 't feel it is the governments role to
provide office space - that should be dictated by market factors .
I help folks find housing after they lose their place to fire . Single people have the hardest time (even older
adults ) finding temp housing. Not much out there for them
As I volunteer for HPI doing monthly interviews with clients I feel the two greatest needs in Fort Collins are
affordable housing and adequatewages . Low income families pay amazingly high rents in this town .
I think affordable health care is the first and most important need that would lift us all into a more secure
financial future . Health catastrophes make homeless and attention to health ( perhaps with education ) can
mitigate it .
Kudos to the Social Sustainability Dept. for their effort in soliciting input re : the 5 year HUD plan . They have
been working hard to collect ideas & prioritize plans . It is critical that we ACT to improve affordable housing .
Thanks for your efforts !
I feel hesitant to support funds for the homeless, because I have seen the existing Fort Collins programs
make things worse, not better. I want to help people, but I am afraid that without rules and laws (that get
enforced ), the disruptive homeless people and those with substance abuse problems take away our safety
and our ability to enjoy community places . Helping the homeless with free Internet and computers at the
library, and allowing them to hang out in the Martinez Park shelter and woods, and with free entrance and
showers at the Aztlan Rec center, have meant that I lost these as comfortable places to enjoy and relax and
get exercise . I worry that we are getting more homeless people coming here because of what they get for
free, and then low income and middle class people lose their community places because the public buildings
and outdoor spaces are no longer safe .
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The source insert is good but sending out emails to those who want is better. We moved over a year ago
and like the city and the emphasis on
city facilities like parks and pools, and want more respect for racial diversity.
Many of the matters addressed by this survey are best served by supporting specialized / mission specific
non - profit organizations oriented to these issues, including through public/private partnerships .
im divorced and living out of suitcases in ex husbands house who doesn 't want me here I barely make
enough to live on . I have a daughter who will be shared of custody once I move out . child support will kick in
30days removed from his house but I barely make enough to live on I pay for my own stuff, I don 't really eat
cuz I didn 't buy it, I just need a place to call home . were can u get a place to call home with a situation
like this?
It ' s hard to maintain employment without housing . Hygeine and nutrition fall to the wayside . Short term
assistance can make a world of differece, but long term solutions are needed too . Let' s look not at
economy, but at what those ezperiencing success in slow economy have that the rest of us don 't. It' s called
exploitation of the under-class, and it ' s a big nut to crack. Requirements for general rentals are ridiculous
and ostracizing, not to mention outrageously unaffordable, even for the most saavy amongst us . Those
needing aide from our awesome local programs often fall through the requirement cracks those programs
must follow . I 've got far too many examples of this to list here : ( Frankly, I ' m so wiped out from my own
battle for viabilty that I just don 't have the energy to self-advocate sometimes, let alone come up with ideas
for others in more difficult situations . I suggest talking to people who work at the Murphy Center especially,
because they get to hear our conundrums firsthand . Try as they do, and successfully I might add ! , they really
shouldn 't have to be the educators too because they' re plenty busy being one of the few places around to
offer services . I can 't say enough for their efforts and I ' m proud we have this great network hub right here . I
think I ' m just saying I wish that more high money community planners would get involved and also please
stop putting up morratoriums and delays and other obstacles to improvements . No one WANTS to be
houseless or working- poor, just so they can mooch, and for anyone to claim this and then use politics to get
in the way of good programming is heartless and harmful .
Need to leave people sleeping in there cars alone
Thank you for seeking my input .
Alternative transportation for this population is critical : Transfort, bicycling, etc . The City should support the
Bike Co-op for the good work it does with this group .
In addition to the urgent need for affordable housing, the population needs support for affordable
transportation/transit and other aspects to lower the cost of living in Fort Collins- utilities and sales taxes .
All of these services need to be closely tied to the school district as well, especially for families with children,
or teens in need .
Tiny Home Community ! Make Affordable Attractive !
In general I believe people should be consuming less energy and materials, developing more practical skills,
and buying as locally as possible, because buying local stays local . So let ' s educate for that, train for that,
and support that .
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THE HOMES IN FTC ARE WAY TOO EXPENSIVE 1200 . 00 FOR A 2 BED WHEN I CAN BARELY MAKE THAT IN
RENT AND DAYCARE . DAYCARE FT IS
1000 . 00 A MONTH !
Keep up the good work !
Clearly a need for more services for homeless families with children
Improvement of Transfort and sidewalks and safety for peds and cyclists
For single parents the eligibility for rent assistance (earnings) should be increased . Rents have sky rocketed
in the past several years while salaries remain flat .
Two people live in my household; one has much lower income than the other.
In general housing costs are very high . This should not be a community where people that are working here
cannot afford to live here .
Need more afford housing for white single men like me I don 't make enough to rent anything in fort Collins
also I was born at pvh and grow up here I don ' t want to leave my home town I have been living in my car for
about a year now I just want a home to go to but can 't cause rent is high and wAges are low . I am getting
sick of the cops trying to give me camping tickets . When I work and pay my taxes was just ran out of the rest
area and was told if I am seen there again I will be going to jail so do something to help me with housing
Thanks for bringing more awareness and information to our community concerning these needs !
The city could use many more small (one bedroom or studio apartments not built for affluent students .
Please stop building homeless shelters.
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, Health needs in our community are being met better than ever before .
One thing that our community could really use is more mental health care for low income people . While
Touchstone offers many valuable programs and services, it has a virtual monopoly on low-income mental
health, which leaves some of the people who most need treatment with no choice about where to go . The
same situation is true for some other types of health care . When LIC bought the PVH system, I had concerns,
but now that they've gone around buying up or running many other practices out of business, it has become
a problem for some people in our community. For example, women on Medicaid who need specialty
gynecology care or even OB care while pregnant have nowhere to receive services . The Women 's Clinic has
a near monopoly on OB/GYN and will not accept Medicaid patients who don 't have other primary insurance,
and will not consistently see anyone on Medicaid . Family practitioners provide virtually all of the care for
women on Medicaid in Fort Collins, even when those women desperately need specialty care .
In addition to better housing and services, Fort Collins needs to end attempts to criminalize poverty and
homelessness .
We need jobs that pay a living wage, affordable housing, lockers for people who are homeless. We must
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stop criminalizing homelessness; stop ticketing people for sleeping outside . We need more emergency
shelter space for couples and people with companion pets . People in Fort Collins should not have to sleep
outside in sub-zero temperatures . Thanks .
Thank you for asking the overall community for their input ! And thanks for helping Elderhaus, they are
amazing people and services !
I just wish the arc of development would slow ! We are developing way too fast for long-term sustainability.
We ' re building up AND out which is SO disheartening. Will there ever be enough ?
I hope that someone smart connects this back to the gaps analysis that was already conducted for the social
sustainability department.
Need more landlords that are educated on and accept Section 8 vouchers
We need much more low to medium cost housing so we don 't turn into Aspen and Boulder, where people
who work there cannot afford to live there .
Affordable housing. I fear that we may become like so many communities in the U .S. (e .g. Boulder) where
only the wealthy can afford to live or buy a home . Cultural diversity is another huge issue--we lack it as a
community !
Affordable housing is a major issue in Fort Collins. The " no more than 3 unrelated adults" rule has
exacerbated this issue . If it is the intent of the City to become a destination city rather than a working city
then we are on the right path . If, on the other hand, it is the intent of the community to be a diverse
community that appreciates the intangible benefits of such diversity then we can 't have a " don 't feed the
bears" attitude toward homelessness and we can 't continue to ignore the substantial social issues we have
within our community.
I believe community transportation for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities should be
improved . It is difficult to use the bus system and hours don 't always line up with employment schedules .
Also parts of the city are difficult to access .
Offended by question 20, add it to 21 . Why not, non - Irish/white etc . . The Hispanic/ Latino' s are the people
of the time for prejudice . It was the Irish, Chinese, Blacks, now we need . .. . . . . .sorry you pushed a button .
Affordable after school programs provided in elementary and middle schools for working parents/single
parents . When I lived in Georgia this was a regular service provided . This is far more important than dances
and cheer leading !
We need to ensure we have not only afforable housing for everyone but also continued opportunities
available where people can improve their lives . We need to have supportie services available in conjunction
with affordable housing solutions to ensure we are not just putting a band -aid on the issue but making real ,
permanent change .
Larimer County should allow CCAP to cover daycare expenses for parents who are going to school . This is
the main reason for me not fulfilling my educational goals and essentially is whats keeping me on assistance
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struggling with the fiscal cliff dilemma
You are doing a great job supporting the many organizations you already support ! Thanks !
I think you need to look heavily at investing in the future generations to break the cycle of poverty. That will
give you the most bang for your buck in keeping Fort Collins great for decades to come .
I think the greatest challenges facing low to middle income residents are the cost of housing/ rent and
childcare costs . High costs in these areas contribute to secondary issues such as hunger, which is significant
in our county.
Access to affordable housing continues to be one of the key factors we hear on a regular basis that is
limiting people ' s ability to remain stable and continue toward self-sufficiency for themselves and their
families.
* Mitigate climate disruption- efficiency, transit * work to lower the cost of living in FC - lower utilities,
government costs, transit, no TIFs/incentives to large companies ; reconsider demands on small businesses
i . e . landscaping, etc.
Enforce tough but realistic accountability standards for expenditures . A dollar wasted cannot be used to
help . Traffic can be a mess. Getting worse . Detracts from quality of life .
Thank you for doing this survey !
Good luck, you need it.
Our community has many resources, churches, organizations, just good people who share their wealth and
talents to help others . What needsimprovement are the family courts and child welfare systems . They are
too big and disregard rights of parents and children to be together.
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