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Ballot Measure Submitted Checklist == Attach to front of folder
Proposition No. I City of Bham
Low -Income Housing Levy ack,
Ballot Measure Submitted:
Date
Initial
Notes
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submitted b mail
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Checks signed by Commissioners orig signatures or certified copy
Date Stamps Submittal, Makes copy for filer
If Document Calling for an election is included in the submittal, have
Auditor or Deputy Auditor sign
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Fills out receipt & gives original to the filer; if submitted by mail returns
original to submitter. Makes a copy for the Auditor File
With another staff member, confirms everything complete
Creates folder (See Steps 6-9 in PROC)
Election Clerk prepares letter to the Pros Atty with copy of measure and
recei (county & districts only); gives folder to CDA for review.
Gives copies of proposed measure to Auditor & Election Supervisor
CDA routes folder to Auditor after review
Auditor signs letter and hand delivers packet to the Prosecuting
Attorney
Date stamps returned letter of approval from Pros Atty
Reviewed by Auditor; as ' number "--J
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Imo submitter after Ballot approval using receipt capability i to it;
mails copies to any other re uestors. Completes Certificate of MailingUTQ
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Set -Up in EIMS
Ballot Layout Created / Completed
After Election
Copy of Canvass Report sent to submitter of ballot issue
Obtain Receipt from Treasurer & Assessor of results
If school issue, send copy of canvass report to Supt of Public Instruction
(form SPI M-466)
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Date
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Notes
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Contact Phone #:
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Election Clerk prepares letter to the Pros Atty with copy of
measure and receipt (county & districts only); gives folder to CDA
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Letter sent (certified mail) to submitter after Ballot approval; mails.
copies to any other re uestors. Completes Certificate of Mailing
Set -Up in EIMS
Ballot Layout Created / Completed
After Election
Copy of Canvass Report sent to submitter of ballot issue
Obtain Receipt from Treasurer & Assessor of results
If school issue, send copy of canvass report to Supt of Public
Instruction (form SPI M-466)
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Whatcom County
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Auditor's Office
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Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
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Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
Phone: (360) 676-6740
Fax: (360) 738-4556
Email: auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us
Internet: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor
Hand -Delivered to John R. Carter, Finance Director, on July 6, 2012
July 6, 2012
John R. Carter, Finance Director
City of Bellingham
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
RE: Ballot Title: City of Bellingham
Proposition No. 1
Low-income Housing Levy
Dear Mr. Carter:
Debbie Adelstein
County Auditor
CITY OF BELLINGHAM
JUL - 6 2012
F DtPl1�Tj�1�
The following is a true copy of the approved ballot title and headings as it will appear on the ballot for the
November 6, 2012 General Election:
City of Bellingham
Proposition No. 1
Low -Income Housing Levy
The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012-06-033 concerning property taxes for
low-income housing assistance.
This proposition would fund housing and housing services for people with low or very low
incomes, including those with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and families with children by (a)
authorizing an increase in the City's regular property tax levy by up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000
of assessed value as allowed by RCW 84.55; and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of up
to $0.24/$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105, each for seven years, generating
approximately $3,000,000 annually.
Should this proposition be approved?
YES? ..........
NO? ..........
This notice of the exact language of the ballot title is being provided pursuant to RCW 29A.36.080.
Sincer ly,
Debbie Adelstein
Whatcom County Auditor
Licensing Recording Elections Administrationlinternal Audit
Licensing@co.whatcomma.us Recording@co.whatcomma.us Elections@comhatcornma.us Auditor@comhatcomma.us
360-676-6740 360-676-6740 360-676-6742 360-676-6740
TTY
360-738-4555
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Official Canvass of the General and Special Election for
The City of Bellingham
Whatcom County, Washington
�s►nG�° Held Tuesday, November 6, 2012
State of Washington
County of Whatcom
The undersigned, being the officers designated by law as constituting the Whatcom County
Canvassing Board, have completed the canvass of votes as it pertains to the General and Special
Election held November 6, 2012, in the precincts within the boundaries of the City of Bellingham,
Whatcom County, State of Washington.
The proposition concerned an increase in city property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
A simple majority was needed for passage. The vote count for the City of Bellingham, Proposition
No. 1, Low -Income Housing Levy was:
Yes — 20,498 56.59%
No — 15,724 43.41 %
Total votes — 36,222
The proposition received the majority required and therefore PASSED.
WITNESS our hand and seal this 27th day of November, 2012.
WHATCOM COUNTY CANVASSING BOARD
C �
Kathy Kershner, County Council Chair
Royce ek n ,Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Debbie Adelstein, County Auditor
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Whatcom County
Auditor's Office
Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
Phone: (360) 676-6740
Fax: (360) 738-4556
Email: auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us
Internet: www.whatcomcounty.us/auditor
ELECTION RESULTS RECEIPT
R�oM �QG
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Debbie Adelstein
County Auditor
Diana Bradrick
Chief Deputy Auditor
Copies of the City of Bellingham, Proposition No. 1, Low -Income Housing Levy, election
results from the November 6, 2012 General and Special Election, have been delivered
to the Assessor's and Treasurer's Office.
Receipt Acknowledged:
ASSESSOR'S OFFICE:
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TREASURER'S OFFICE:
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Date
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Date
Licensing Recording Elections Administration/internal Audit
Licensing@co.whatcornma.us Recording@comhatcom.wa.us Elections@comhatcom.wa.us Auditor@comhatcomma.us
360-676-6740 360-676-6740 360-676-6742 360-676-6740
TTY
360-738-4555
Whatcom County
Auditor's Office
Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225- 4038
Phone: (360) 676-6740
Fax: (360)738-4556
Email: auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us
Internet: www,whatcomcounty.us/auditor
ELECTION RESULTS RECEIPT
Debbie Adelstein
County Auditor
Diana Bradrick
Chief Deputy Auditor
A copy of the City of Bellingham, Proposition No. 1, Low-income Housing Levy,
Whatcom County, election results from the General and Special Election held on
November 6, 2012, has been delivered to the City of Bellingham.
Receipt Acknowledged:
City of Bellingham
Ngme Date
Licensing Recording Elections Administrationlinternal Audit
Licensing@comhatcomma.us Recording@co.whatcornma.us Elections@co.whatcomma.us Auditor@comhatcornma.us
360-676-6740 360-676-6740 360-676-6742 360-676-6740
TTY
360-738-4555
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Voted Regular
Affordable Housing
RCW:
84.52.105 (Regular)
Maximum Statutory Levy Rate:
$0.50/$1,000 Assessed Value
Type of Levy:
Regular, Voted
Affecting Levy Limits:
Levy Limit Statutory Rate District budget
1 % Ballot
Excess Levies Authorized:
None
Governing Body:
Various
Purpose:
A county, city, or town may impose this levy for each year
up to 10 consecutive years to fmance affordable housing for
very low-income households.
Notes:
Voter authorization is required and the length of the levy is
up to 10 years. If both a county and a city or town within the
county impose this levy, the levy of the last jurisdiction to
receive voter approval must be reduced so that the combined
total does not exceed $.50/$1,000 assessed value.
RCW 84.52.105
Affordable housing levies authorized —
Declaration of emergency
and plan required.
(1) A county, city, or town may impose additional regular property tax levies of up to fifty cents per thousand dollars of
assessed value of property in each year for up to ten consecutive years to finance affordable housing for very low-
income households when specifically authorized to do so by a majority of the voters of the taxing district voting on a
ballot proposition authorizing the levies. If both a county, and a city or town within the county, impose levies
authorized under this section, the levies of the last jurisdiction to receive voter approval for the levies shall be reduced
or eliminated so that the combined rates of these levies may not exceed fifty cents per thousand dollars of assessed
valuation in any area within the county. A ballot proposition authorizing a levy under this section must conform with
RCW 84.52.054.
(2) The additional property tax levies may not be imposed until:
(a) The governing body of the county, city, or town declares the existence of an emergency with respect to the
availability of housing that is affordable to very low-income households in the taxing district; and
(b) The governing body of the county, city, or town adopts an affordable housing financing plan to serve as the
plan for expenditure of funds raised by a levy authorized under this section, and the governing body determines that
the affordable housing financing plan is consistent with either the locally adopted or state -adopted comprehensive
housing affordability strategy, required under the Cranston -Gonzalez national affordable housing act (42 U.S.C. Sec.
12701, et seq.), as amended.
(3) For purposes of this section, the term "very low-income household" means a single person, family, or unrelated
persons living together whose income is at or below fifty percent of the median income, as determined by the United
States department of housing and urban development, with adjustments for household size, for the county where the
taxing district is located.
(4) The limitations in RCW 84.52.043 shall not apply to the tax levy authorized in this section. rL4_�— 0—
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
210 Lottie Street, Bellingham,WA 98225
Telephone: (360) 778-8270
Fax: (360) 778-8271
August 8, 2012
Debbie Adelstein
Office of the Whatcom County Auditor
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225
RE: Proposition No. 1 - Low Income Housing Levy
Dear Ms. Adelstein
RECEIVED
AUG _ 8 2012
DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
"ATCO M CD U NTY AUDITOR
Enclosed please find the explanatory statement for the voter's pamphlet regarding Proposition
No. 1 - Low Income Housing Levy.
Y o ui-s very truly,
r
eter u a
City Attorney
Enc.
Explanatory Statement for City of Bellingham Proposition No. I - Low Income Housing Levy
Approved by Bellingham City Attorne 's Office
This levy would fund production and preservation of homes, rental assistance, support services, and
down payment assistance for low-income households. Two-thirds of the funding would assist very low-
income households, and the remaining third would assist low-income households. A family of two
earning less than $27,150 annually is very low-income, and a family of two earning less than $43,400 is
low-income. Funding priorities would be set forth in an Administrative and Financing Plan adopted by
the City Council following recommendations by a citizen advisory committee to the Mayor and Council.
The plan will be coordinated with existing City housing programs.
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Whatcom County Courthouse
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103�`tlm rO�y
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
360-676-6740�.
360-738-4556 FAX V\. __�, r
360-738-4555 TTY
E-mail: auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us
www.co.whatcom.wa.us/auditor
Whatcom County
Auditor's Office
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BALLOT MEASURE RECEIPT
Election Division
Date Received: I la 11 Z—
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Received From: ,
Name of Presenter
oF T-)Comhbyn
Name of Organs anon
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Address
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Ballot Issue Name: G D I 5YD b51 fiCr)
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The Auditor's Office, Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above -
named Proposition for inclusion in the ���'� I Election.
Deputy Auditor
IAPolicies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\02_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.DOCAdopted 7/27/06
F
' FINANCE DEPARTMENT, City Hall, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
Telephone: (360) 778-8000 ♦ Fax: (360) 778-8001
John R. Carter, Finance Director
�Sh+l N G�°
July 6,2012������
JUL 6 2012
Debbie Adelstein DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
Office of the Whatcom County Auditor WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225
RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1, Low -Income Housing Ballot
Dear Ms. Adelstein:
As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit a certified copy of
Bellingham Ordinance #2012-06-033 authorizing that Proposition No. 1 as described, be
submitted to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on November
6, 2012:
CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO.1
Ballot Title: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1, Low -Income Housing Levy
The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012-06-033
concerning property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
This proposition would fund housing and housing services for people with low
or very low incomes, including those with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and
families with children by (a) authorizing an increase in the City's regular
property tax levy by up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000 of assessed value as
allowed by RCW 84.55; and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of up
to $0.24/$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105, each for seven years,
generating approximately $3,000,000 annually.
Should this proposition be approved?
Yes? ..............
No? ...............
Ms. Adelstein
July 6, 2012
Page 2.
Ordinance No. 2012-06-033 was unanimously approved by the Bellingham City Council
on Monday, June 18, 2012 and authorizes the County Auditor's Office to submit
Proposition No. 1 to the qualified electors for approval or rejection at the General Election
scheduled for November 6, 2012.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not
hesitate to contact me.
Yours very truly,
J hn R. Carter
Finance Director
JRC/Ida
cc Peter Ruffatto, City Attorney
Enclosures: Certified Copy, Ordinance #2012-06-033
RECEIVED
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JUL 6 2012
ORDINANCE NO. 2012-06-033
DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM RELATING TO LOW-INCOME
HOUSING; REQUESTING THAT A SPECIAL ELECTION BE HELD CONCURRENT
WITH THE NOVEMBER 6, 2012 GENERAL ELECTION FOR SUBMISSION TO THE
QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF A PROPOSITION TO LIFT THE LIMIT ON
REGULAR PROPERTY TAXES UNDER CHAPTER 84.65 RCW FOR LOW-INCOME
HOUSING; DECLARING THE EXISTENCE OF AN EMERGENCY UNDER CHAPTER
84.52.105 AND REQUESTING VOTER APPROVAL OF AN ADDITIONAL PROPERTY
TAX FOR VERY LOW-INCOME HOUSING; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPIRATION OF
THE ADDITIONAL LEVIES AT THE END OF SEVEN YEARS; SETTING FORTH THE
BALLOT PROPOSITION; DESIGNATING A CITIZEN LEVY ADVISORY COMMITTEE;
AND PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMS WITH FUNDS DERIVED
FROM THE TAXES AUTHORIZED.
WHEREAS, Equity and Social Justice is a legacy that the City Council has adopted
for the City of Bellingham;
WHEREAS, Supporting safe,affordable housing, supporting services for lower -
income residents, and providing access to problem -solving resources are the strategic
commitments the City Council has made to ensure Equity and Social Justice;
WHEREAS, a healthy community is one in which all members have access to basic
needs such as safe, secure and affordable homes and, despite the recent decline in home
purchase prices, homes remain unaffordable for a significant percentage of Bellingham
residents;
WHEREAS, households face a severe burden when housing costs (including
utilities) exceed 50 percent of household income;
WHEREAS, U.S. Census data has estimated that there are 7,400 low-income
households in Bellingham that face a severe housing cost burden by paying more than 50
percent of their income on housing costs;
WHEREAS, over 1,000 low-income elderly households in Bellingham pay more than
50 percent of their income on housing costs and face challenges in repairing their homes
without financial assistance;
WHEREAS, at any point in time, 500 people are homeless in Whatcom County,
according to the annual Point -in -Time Count, and 20 percent of all people experiencing
homelessness in Bellingham are children under 10 years of age, with adverse childhood
experiences that have profound and long-lasting negative consequences;
WHEREAS, local housing affordability efforts save public money by reducing
expenses for social services, emergency room medical care, triage, law enforcement and
I HOME FUND ORDINANCE
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
�1� 360-778-8270
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other costs associated with temporary and chronic homelessness, with two local programs
recently documenting that housing services resulted in increased access to mental health
services and a 90 percent reduction in criminal justice costs;
WHEREAS, recent investments of new, but very limited, grant funds resulted in
significant reductions in local homelessness, with 37 percent fewer homeless persons with
disabilities, 65 percent fewer homeless veterans, and 41 percent fewer homeless persons
overall;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 1,608 families on the waiting list
for public housing, 72 percent of which earn less than 30% of the Area Median Income and
44 percent are families with disabilities;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 400 households on the waiting
list for rental assistance vouchers, with an average waiting time to receive assistance of
more than four years;
WHEREAS, nearly one-third of Bellingham's housing stock is over 50 years old,
requiring repair, maintenance and weatherization that is often not affordable to low-income
households;
WHEREAS, local wages are not keeping pace with Bellingham's housing costs, with
average apartment rent increasing 17 percent while average wages increased only 5
percent since 2004;
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census, the median value of homes increased 96
percent from 2000 to 2010, while median family income increased just 23 percent;
WHEREAS, more affordable housing options near employment centers are good for
the environment, preventing long commutes with associated pollution, commuting
expenses, traffic congestion and road widening costs;
WHEREAS, the Countywide Housing Affordability Taskforce (CHAT) concluded its
18 month study and deliberation about housing affordability with a set of conclusions that
included among its top six recommendations the creation of additional local revenue
sources that assist in the delivery of homes affordable to low-income households;
WHEREAS, the proposed Bellingham Home Fund will result in $21,000,000 in local
funding that will be used as matching money to leverage other private and public funding
for housing affordability, serving an estimated 8,500 families over the useful life of the
properties that will be assisted with the Bellingham Home Fund;
WHEREAS, as a condition of receiving federal funding for low-income housing, the
City of Bellingham administers an affordable housing program with citizen oversight,
including preparation of five-year strategic plans, performance measures and outcomes,
and annual action plans;
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (2) 360-778-8270
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WHEREAS, the City of Bellingham can efficiently administer the proposed
Bellingham Home Fund in conjunction with its existing programs that manage federal
funding for housing affordability;
WHEREAS, Chapter 84.55 RCW generally limits the dollar amount of regular
property taxes that a city may levy in any year, but RCW 84.55,050 allows a city to levy
taxes exceeding such limit by majority approval of the voters and allows a city to include in
the ballot proposition a limit on the purpose for which the additional taxes levied will be
used and to provide for the expiration of the additional taxing authority;
WHEREAS, the proposed additional levy is within the limitations imposed by RCW
84.52.043;
WHEREAS, RCW 84.52.105 authorizes a city to impose additional regular property
tax levies to finance affordable housing for very low-income households when specifically
authorized to do so by a majority of the voters of the taxing district voting on a ballot
proposition authorizing the levy; and
WHEREAS, RCW 35,21.685 authorizes a city to assist in the development or
preservation of publicly or privately owned housing for persons of low income by providing
loans or grants of general municipal funds to the owners or developers of the housing,
including loans or grants to finance the acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of low-
income housing, and to provide rental assistance and other supportive services, to low-
income persons;
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. Findings. The City Council makes the following findings and declares as
follows:
A. The City's Consolidated Plan and Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan identify
insufficient safe, sanitary, and decent housing affordable to low- and very low-income
households to meet the present and anticipated needs of such households, including
homes affordable for local working people, U.S. military veterans, families with children,
people with limited or fixed incomes including senior citizens and people having a
disability.
B. Affordable rental housing for low-income households, including the homeless, other
persons with special needs, families and seniors, often requires a commitment of City
funds for development or preservation, or other forms of assistance.
C. Promoting and preserving home ownership for low-income households contributes to
the stability of families and neighborhoods; helps preserve the physical condition of
residential properties; and addresses the shortage of safe, sanitary, affordable housing
both by maintaining and enhancing the supply of owner -occupied housing and by
limiting the demand for scarce low-income rental housing that otherwise would exist
from households unable to afford to purchase homes or to maintain existing homes.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (3) 360-778-8270
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D. The additional taxes to be levied under this ordinance will enable the City to provide for
the housing needs of low- and very low-income households and thereby work to fulfill
the purposes of federal, state and City laws and policies, including, without limitation,
the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Act, federal Community Development Block
Grant, the State Growth Management Act and the City's Comprehensive Plan.
E. An emergency exists with respect to the availability of housing that is affordable to very
low-income households in the City of Bellingham.
Section 2. Definitions. The following terms used in this ordinance shall have the
definitions stated below, unless the context otherwise clearly requires:
A. "Affordable housing" means residential housing for rental or private individual
ownership which, as long as the same is occupied by low-income households, requires
payment of monthly housing costs, including utilities, other than telephone, of no more
than 30 percent of the household's income.
B. "Low-income housing" means housing that will serve "low-income households."
C. "Household" means a single person, family or unrelated persons living together.
D. "Low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to eighty
percent (80%) of median income.
E. "Median income" means annual median family income for the statistical area or division
thereof including Bellingham for which median family income is published from time to
time by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or successor
agency, with adjustments according to household size.
F. "Very low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to 50
percent of median income.
To the extent permitted by applicable State law, income determinations may take into
account such exclusions, adjustments and rules of computation as may be prescribed or
used under federal housing laws, regulations or policies for purposes of establishing
income limits, or as may be established in City housing and community development plan
documents consistent with federal laws, regulations or policies.
Section 3. Proposition to Authorize Levy -of Additional Reaular Property Taxes;
Affordable Housing Plan.
The City submits to the qualified electors of the City a proposition as authorized by RCW
84.55.050(1), to exceed the levy limitation on regular property taxes contained in Chapter
84.55 RCW for property taxes levied in 2012 through 2018 for collection in 2013 through
2019, respectively. The proposition would also authorize an additional property tax levy for
very low-income housing under RCW 84.52.105. The proposition would raise
approximately $3,000,000 per year totaling an estimated $21,000,000 in aggregate over a
period of up to seven years.
A. The proposition would permit the City to increase its regular property tax levy by up
to $0.12 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, resulting in a regular property tax levy of
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (4) 360-778-8270
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$2.62 per $1,000 for collection in 2013. All the levy proceeds shall be used for the
purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance.
B. The proposition would also authorize the City to impose an additional regular
property tax levy of up to $0.24 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for very low-
income housing pursuant to RCW 84.52.105. The limitations in RCW 84.52.043
shall not apply to the tax levy authorized by this part. All the levy proceeds shall be
used for the purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance and may not be imposed
by the City Council until the City adopts an affordable housing financing plan as set
forth in Section 6 of this ordinance.
C. The taxes authorized by this proposition will be in addition to the maximum amount of
regular property taxes the City would have been limited to by RCW 84.55.010 in the
absence of voter approval under this ordinance, plus other authorized lid lifts.
Thereafter, such levy amount would be used to compute limitations for subsequent
years as allowed by chapter 84.55 RCW. Pursuant to RCW 84.55.050(5), the maximum
regular property taxes that may be levied in 2019 for collection in 2020 and in later
years shall be computed as if the limit on regular property taxes had not been
increased under this ordinance.
Section 4. Levy Revenues.
A. Unless otherwise directed by ordinance, all revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be deposited initially in the Low -
Income Housing Fund to be used as set forth in Section 5 and as described in the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plans, as may be adopted by the City
Council under Sections 5 and 6 of this ordinance. The Finance Director is authorized to
create other subfunds or accounts within the Low -Income Housing Fund as may be
needed or appropriate to implement the purposes of this ordinance.
B. Pending expenditure for the purposes authorized in this ordinance, amounts deposited
in the Low -Income Housing Fund pursuant to this ordinance may be invested in any
investments permitted by applicable law. All investment earnings on the balances shall
be deposited into the Low -Income Housing Fund. Amounts received by the City from
payments with respect to loans, recovery of grants, insurance proceeds or proceeds of
sale or disposition of property ("program income") shall be deposited into the Low -
Income Housing Fund unless otherwise specified by ordinance. Any investment
earnings and program income derived from revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be used for the purposes set forth in
this ordinance and as authorized by the City Council.
Section 5. Administration:.Use of Proceeds.
A. The levy funds shall be used to pay for affordable housing for low and very low-income
households, pay for affordable housing programs, and otherwise to provide for the
housing needs of low and very low-income households; provided that all funds raised
from the levy authorized by RCW 84,52,105 shall be dedicated to affordable housing
for very low-income households.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (5) 360-778-8270
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B.
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The Planning and Community Development Department, or such other department as
may be designated by ordinance, shall administer programs funded with the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance. Any programs adopted by the City Council
for use of the funds derived under this ordinance shall be referred to as "Housing Levy
Programs." Housing Levy Programs shall be implemented consistent with the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan, as may be adopted by the City
Council and as may thereafter be amended from time to time.
Anticipated Housing Levy Programs are shown in Exhibit 1, attached hereto. The City
Council, upon recommendation of the Citizen Advisory Committee described in Section
7 of this ordinance, or upon recommendation of the Mayor or on its own motion, may
review the allocations to particular Housing Levy Programs and make changes to the
programs, including additions and deletions of programs and/or in the timing of or
amount of funds allocated to any program, consistent with the purposes of this
ordinance and applicable law. Administration funding shown on Exhibit 1 is intended to
be used for administration of the use of levy proceeds for all programs, including but
not limited to developing the Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan,
preparing and reviewing loan and grant applications, monitoring and auditing
performance and compliance with loan, grant and program requirements, and paying
for financial accounting, legal, and other administrative services necessary to
implement the Housing Levy Programs.
Section 6. Low Income Housina Administrative and Financing Plan.
A. The Director of Planning and Community Development, or other such person as may
be designated by the Director or the Mayor, shall prepare a Low Income Housing
Administrative and Financing Plan ("Plan") covering all of the Housing Levy Programs.
The Plan shall cover the period commencing in 2013 and continue through 2019; shall
specify the plan for use of funds raised by the levy authorized by RCW 84.52.105; shall
be consistent with either the locally adopted or state -adopted comprehensive housing
affordability strategy, required under the Cranston -Gonzalez national affordable
housing act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12701, et seq.), as amended; and shall be approved by
City Council prior to the additional property tax levy being imposed pursuant to RCW
84.52.105.
B. The expenditure of all funds raised pursuant to this ordinance shall be as set forth in
the Plan adopted by City Council. The City Council reserves the right to amend the
Plan as it may in the future be determined as necessary or appropriate. The Plan
should be done in coordination with the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans
required by HUD for expenditure of HOME and CDBG funds for the benefit of low
income housing and community development needs in the City.
C. The City Council shall appropriate from the Low -Income Housing Fund, as part of the
City budget or supplementally, such monies derived from the levies authorized in this
ordinance as it deems necessary to carry out the Housing Levy Programs.
D. The Mayor, or other such person as may be designated by the Mayor, is authorized, for
and on behalf of the City, to select projects for funding and to approve, make and modify
loans, grants or other expenditures to carry out the Housing Levy Programs, provided
that such authority is subject to the appropriation of sufficient funds and consistent with
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (6) 360-778-8270
1 the Plan approved by City Council pursuant to Sections 5 and 6. The Mayor and his or
2 her designees are further authorized, for and on behalf of the City, to execute and
3 deliver such documents and instruments as he or she may determine to be necessary or
4 appropriate to implement the financing of specific projects or to otherwise carry out the
5 Housing Levy Programs.
6
7 Section 7. Citizen Advisory Committee.
8 The Community Development Advisory Board ("CDAB"), established pursuant to BMC
9 2.46.010, shall advise the City Council, Mayor and the Director of Planning and Community
10 Development regarding the Housing Levy Programs authorized by this ordinance. CDAB
11 shall advise the Mayor and City Council on the Low Income Housing Administrative and
12 Financial Plan prepared pursuant to Section 6 of this ordinance. CDAB shall also assist in
13 monitoring the progress, performance and accomplishment of Housing Levy Programs, and
14 report such findings to the Mayor and City Council, including any problems and
15 recommendations on actions to be taken so that the Housing Levy Programs are
16 conducted in a timely and efficient manner for the benefit of low-income households.
17
18 Section 8. Election - Ballot Title.
19 The City Council hereby requests that the Whatcom County Auditor, as ex officio
20 supervisor of elections, submit to the qualified electorate of the City for a vote, at the
21 November 6, 2012 general election, a proposition substantially in the form set forth in this
22 ordinance. The City Clerk is directed to certify to the Whatcom County Auditor the ballot
23 proposition to the electorate of the City in the form substantially as follows:
24
25 PROPOSITION NO. 1
26 Low -Income Housing Levy
27
28 The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012- 06-033
29 concerning property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
30
31 This proposition would fund housing and housing services for
32 people with low or very low incomes, including those with
33 disabilities, veterans, seniors, and families with children by (a)
34 authorizing an increase in the City's regular property tax levy by
35 up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000 of assessed value as allowed
36 by RCW 84.55; and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of
37 up to $0.24/$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105,
38 each for seven years, generating approximately $3,000,000
39 annually. Should this proposition be approved?
40
Yes?.. ............................
F�
41
No?..... ..................... .... ❑
42
43
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (7) 360-778-8270
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Section 9. Corrections.
The Bellingham City Attorney's Office or the Auditor or her designee is authorized to make
necessary clerical corrections to this ordinance including, but not limited to, the correction of
scrivener's or clerical errors, references, ordinance numbering, section/subsection numbers
and any references thereto.
Section 10. Severability.
If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this resolution should be held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality
shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or
phrase of this resolution.
PASSED by the Council this 18th day of June 2012,
Council P711dent
APPROVED by me this � day of , 2012.
Mayor
APP OVE A ❑ F M:
Office of the City Attorney
State of Washington ? C/a
County of Whatcom
(Date)
I certify
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Published:
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June 22, 2012
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HOME FUND ORDINANCE
(8)
this is a true and corre
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City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
360-778-8270
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EXHIBIT 1
2013 HOUSING LEVY PROGRAMS
Program
Total Funding
7 Years)
Estimated Housing
ProducedlHouseholds
Assisted
Program Description/Affordability Levels
• Homes for people working at minimum wage, veterans,
seniors on fixed incomes, and people exiting homelessness
(households at or below 30% of median income)
Production and
429 homes (serving 8,500
0 Homes for local workers, working families up to 60% of
Preservation of Homes
$15,980,000
families over the useful life
median income
of these properties).
0 Affordable and specialized homes for veterans, people with
disabilities, and seniors.
Rehabilitation and weatherization to increase affordability and
preserve existing affordable homes
Supportive services matched to specialized homes for
disabled veterans and chronically homeless individuals to
l help them retain their homes and reduce costly care in
Rental Assistance and hospital emergency department and other inappropriate
Support Services $1,880.000 800 homes systems of care
• Temporary and long-term assistance to families and
individuals to help preserve their housing, prevent eviction
and homelessness (targeted households at or below 50% of
Low-income homebuyer Assistance to low-income homebuyers, including programs
$940,000 50 homes that promote long-term affordability of ownership housing
assistance (targeted to households at or below 80% of median income)
Acquisition and Short-term loans for strategic purchases of buildings or land
Opportunity Loans $940,000 50 homes for rental or homeownership housing development that will
serve low-income households
Administration $1,260,000 n/a
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Loltie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (9) 360-778-8270
July 6, 2012
E (-r)) P U
CU
FINANCE DEPARTMENT, City Hall, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
Telephone: (360) 778-8000 * Fax: (360) 778-8001
John R. Carter, Finance Director
RECEIVED
JUL 6 2012
Debbie Adelstein DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
Office of the Whatcom County Auditor WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225
RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1, Low -Income Housing Ballot
Dear Ms. Adelstein:
As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit a certified copy of
Bellingham Ordinance #2012-06-033 authorizing that Proposition No. 1 as described, be
submitted to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on November
6, 2012:
CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO.1
Ballot Title: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1, Low -Income Housing Levy
The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012-06-033
concerning property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
This proposition would fund housing and housing services for people with low
or very low incomes, including those with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and
families with children by (a) authorizing an increase in the City's regular
property tax levy by up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000 of assessed value as
allowed by RCW 84.55; and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of up
to $0.24/$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105, each for seven years,
generating approximately $3,000,000 annually.
Should this proposition be approved?
Yes? ..............
No? ...............
Ms. Adelstein
July 6, 2012
Page 2.
Ordinance No. 2012-06-033 was unanimously approved by the Bellingham City Council
on Monday, June 18, 2012 and authorizes the County Auditor's Office to submit
Proposition No. 1 to the qualified electors for approval or rejection at the General Election
scheduled for November 6, 2012.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not
hesitate to contact me.
Yours very truly,
hn R. Carter
Finance Director
JRC/Ida
cc Peter Ruffatto, City Attorney
Enclosures: Certified Copy, Ordinance #2012-06-033
RECEIVED
JUL 6 2012
1 ORDINANCE NO. 2012-06-033
2 DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
3 WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
4 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM RELATING TO LOW-INCOME
5 HOUSING; REQUESTING THAT A SPECIAL ELECTION BE HELD CONCURRENT
6 WITH THE NOVEMBER 6, 2012 GENERAL ELECTION FOR SUBMISSION TO THE
7 QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF A PROPOSITION TO LIFT THE LIMIT ON
8 q REGULAR PROPERTY TAXES UNDER CHAPTER 84.66 RCW FOR LOW-INCOME
9 ' HOUSING; DECLARING THE EXISTENCE OF AN EMERGENCY UNDER CHAPTER
10 84.62.105 AND REQUESTING VOTER APPROVAL OF AN ADDITIONAL PROPERTY
11 TAX FOR VERY LOW-INCOME HOUSING; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPIRATION OF
12 THE ADDITIONAL LEVIES AT THE END OF SEVEN YEARS; SETTING FORTH THE
13 BALLOT PROPOSITION; DESIGNATING A CITIZEN LEVY ADVISORY COMMITTEE;
14 AND PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMS WITH FUNDS DERIVED
15 FROM THE TAXES AUTHORIZED.
16
17 WHEREAS, Equity and Social Justice is a legacy that the City Council has adopted
18 for the City of Bellingham;
19
20 WHEREAS, Supporting safe,affordable housing, supporting services for lower-
21 income residents, and providing access to problem -solving resources are the strategic
22 commitments the City Council has made to ensure Equity and Social Justice;
23
24 WHEREAS, a healthy community is one in which all members have access to basic
25 needs such as safe, secure and affordable homes and, despite the recent decline in home
26 purchase prices, homes remain unaffordable for a significant percentage of Bellingham
27 residents;
28
29 WHEREAS, households face a severe burden when housing costs (including
30 utilities) exceed 50 percent of household income;
31
32 WHEREAS, U.S. Census data has estimated that there are 7,400 low-income
33 households in Bellingham that face a severe housing cost burden by paying more than 50
34 percent of their income on housing costs;
35
36 WHEREAS, over 1,000 low-income elderly households in Bellingham pay more than
37 50 percent of their income on housing costs and face challenges in repairing their homes
38 without financial assistance;
39
40 WHEREAS, at any point in time, 500 people are homeless in Whatcom County,
41 according to the annual Point -in -Time Count, and 20 percent of all people experiencing
42 homelessness in Bellingham are children under 10 years of age, with adverse childhood
43 experiences that have profound and long-lasting negative consequences;
44
45 WHEREAS, local housing affordability efforts save public money by reducing
46 expenses for social services, emergency room medical care, triage, law enforcement and
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (1) 360-778-8270
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other costs associated with temporary and chronic homelessness, with two local programs
recently documenting that housing services resulted in increased access to mental health
services and a 90 percent reduction in criminal justice costs;
WHEREAS, recent investments of new, but very limited, grant funds resulted in
significant reductions in local homelessness, with 37 percent fewer homeless persons with
disabilities, 65 percent fewer homeless veterans, and 41 percent fewer homeless persons
overall;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 1,608 families on the waiting list
for public housing, 72 percent of which earn less than 30% of the Area Median Income and
44 percent are families with disabilities;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 400 households on the waiting
list for rental assistance vouchers, with an average waiting time to receive assistance of
more than four years;
WHEREAS, nearly one-third of Bellingham's housing stock is over 50 years old,
requiring repair, maintenance and weatherization that is often not affordable to low-income
households;
WHEREAS, local wages are not keeping pace with Bellingham's housing costs, with
average apartment rent increasing 17 percent while average wages increased only 5
percent since 2004;
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census, the median value of homes increased 96
percent from 2000 to 2010, while median family income increased just 23 percent;
WHEREAS, more affordable housing options near employment centers are good for
the environment, preventing long commutes with associated pollution, commuting
expenses, traffic congestion and road widening costs;
WHEREAS, the Countywide Housing Affordability Taskforce (CHAT) concluded its
18 month study and deliberation about housing affordability with a set of conclusions that
included among its top six recommendations the creation of additional local revenue
sources that assist in the delivery of homes affordable to low-income households;
WHEREAS, the proposed Bellingham Home Fund will result in $21,000,000 in local
funding that will be used as matching money to leverage other private and public funding
for housing affordability, serving an estimated 8,500 families over the useful life of the
properties that will be assisted with the Bellingham Home Fund;
WHEREAS, as a condition of receiving federal funding for low-income housing, the
City of Bellingham administers an affordable housing program with citizen oversight,
including preparation of five-year strategic plans, performance measures and outcomes,
and annual action plans;
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (2) 360-778-8270
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WHEREAS, the City of Bellingham can efficiently administer the proposed
Bellingham Home Fund in conjunction with its existing programs that manage federal
funding for housing affordability;
WHEREAS, Chapter 84.55 RCW generally limits the dollar amount of regular
property taxes that a city may levy in any year, but RCW 84.55,050 allows a city to levy
taxes exceeding such limit by majority approval of the voters and allows a city to include in
the ballot proposition a limit on the purpose for which the additional taxes levied will be
used and to provide for the expiration of the additional taxing authority;
WHEREAS, the proposed additional levy is within the limitations imposed by RCW
84.52.043;
WHEREAS, RCW 84.52.105 authorizes a city to impose additional regular property
tax levies to finance affordable housing for very low-income households when specifically
authorized to do so by a majority of the voters of the taxing district voting on a ballot
proposition authorizing the levy; and
WHEREAS, RCW 35.21.685 authorizes a city to assist in the development or
preservation of publicly or privately owned housing for persons of low income by providing
loans or grants of general municipal funds to the owners or developers of the housing,
including loans or grants to finance the acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of low-
income housing, and to provide rental assistance and other supportive services, to low-
income persons;
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. Findings. The City Council makes the following findings and declares as
follows:
A. The City's Consolidated Plan and Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan identify
insufficient safe, sanitary, and decent housing affordable to low- and very low-income
households to meet the present and anticipated needs of such households, including
homes affordable for local working people, U.S. military veterans, families with children,
people with limited or fixed incomes including senior citizens and people having a
disability.
B. Affordable rental housing for low-income households, including the homeless, other
persons with special needs, families and seniors, often requires a commitment of City
funds for development or preservation, or other forms of assistance.
C. Promoting and preserving home ownership for low-income households contributes to
the stability of families and neighborhoods; helps preserve the physical condition of
residential properties; and addresses the shortage of safe, sanitary, affordable housing
both by maintaining and enhancing the supply of owner -occupied housing and by
limiting the demand for scarce low-income rental housing that otherwise would exist
from households unable to afford to purchase homes or to maintain existing homes.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (3) 360-778-8270
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D. The additional taxes to be levied under this ordinance will enable the City to provide for
the housing needs of low- and very low-income households and thereby work to fulfill
the purposes. of federal, state and City laws and policies, including, without limitation,
the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Act, federal Community Development Block
Grant, the State Growth Management Act and the City's Comprehensive Plan.
E. An emergency exists with respect to the availability of housing that is affordable to very
low-income households in the City of Bellingham.
Section 2. Definitions. The following terms used in this ordinance shall have the
definitions stated below, unless the context otherwise clearly requires:
A. "Affordable housing" means residential housing for rental or private individual
ownership which, as long as the same is occupied by low-income households, requires
payment of monthly housing costs, including utilities, other than telephone, of no more
than 30 percent of the household's income.
B. "Low-income housing" means housing that will serve "low-income households."
C. "Household" means a single person, family or unrelated persons living together.
D. "Low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to eighty
percent (80%) of median income.
E. "Median income" means annual median family income for the statistical area or division
thereof including Bellingham for which median family income is published from time to
time by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or successor
agency, with adjustments according to household size.
F. "Very low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to 50
percent of median income.
To the extent permitted by applicable State law, income determinations may take into
account such exclusions, adjustments and rules of computation as may be prescribed or
used under federal housing laws, regulations or policies for purposes of establishing
income limits, or as may be established in City housing and community development plan
documents consistent with federal laws, regulations or policies.
Section 3. Proposition to Authorize Levy of Additional Regular Property Taxes;
Affordable Housing Plan.
The City submits to the qualified electors of the City a proposition as authorized by RCW
84.55.050(1), to exceed the levy limitation on regular property taxes contained in Chapter
84.55 RCW for property taxes levied in 2012 through 2018 for collection in 2013 through
2019, respectively. The proposition would also authorize an additional property tax levy for
very low-income housing under RCW 84.52.105. The proposition would raise
approximately $3,000,000 per year totaling an estimated $21,000,000 in aggregate over a
period of up to seven years.
A. The proposition would permit the City to increase its regular property tax levy by up
to $0.12 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, resulting in a regular property tax levy of
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (4) 360-778-8270
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$2.62 per $1,000 for collection in 2013. All the levy proceeds shall be used for the
purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance.
B. The proposition would also authorize the City to impose an additional regular
property tax levy of up to $0.24 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for very low-
income housing pursuant to RCW 84.52.105. The limitations in RCW 84.52.043
shall not apply to the tax levy authorized by this part. All the levy proceeds shall be
used for the purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance and may not be imposed
by the City Council until the City adopts an affordable housing financing plan as set
forth in Section 6 of this ordinance.
C. The taxes authorized by this proposition will be in addition to the maximum amount of
regular property taxes the City would have been limited to by RCW 84.55.010 in the
absence of voter approval under this ordinance, plus other authorized lid lifts.
Thereafter, such levy amount would be used to compute limitations for subsequent
years as allowed by chapter 84.55 RCW. Pursuant to RCW 84.55.050(5), the maximum
regular property taxes that may be levied in 2019 for collection in 2020 and'in later
years shall be computed as if the limit on regular property taxes had not been
increased under this ordinance.
Section 4. Levy Revenues.
A
Unless otherwise directed by ordinance, all revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be deposited initially in the Low -
Income Housing Fund to be used as set forth in Section 5 and as described in the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plans, as may be adopted by the City
Council under Sections 5 and 6 of this ordinance. The Finance Director is authorized to
create other subfunds or accounts within the Low -Income Housing Fund as may be
needed or appropriate to implement the purposes of this ordinance.
Pending expenditure for the purposes authorized in this ordinance, amounts deposited
in the Low -Income Housing Fund pursuant to this ordinance may be invested in any
investments permitted by applicable law. All investment earnings on the balances shall
be deposited into the Low -Income Housing Fund. Amounts received by the City from
payments with respect to loans, recovery of grants, insurance proceeds or proceeds of
sale or disposition of property ("program income") shall be deposited into the Low -
Income Housing Fund unless otherwise specified by ordinance. Any investment
earnings and program income derived from revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be used for the purposes set forth in
this ordinance and as authorized by the City Council.
Section 5. Administration: Use of Proceeds.
A. The levy funds shall be used to pay for affordable housing for low and very low-income
households, pay for affordable housing programs, and otherwise to provide for the
housing needs of low and very low-income households; provided that all funds raised
from the levy authorized by RCW 84.52.105 shall be dedicated to affordable housing
for very low-income households.
City of Bellingham
City Attomey
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (5) 360-778-8270
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B. The Planning and Community Development Department, or such other department as
may be designated by ordinance, shall administer programs funded with the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance. Any programs adopted by the City Council
for use of the funds derived under this ordinance shall be referred to as "Housing Levy
Programs." Housing Levy Programs shall be implemented consistent with the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan, as may be adopted by the City
Council and as may thereafter be amended from time to time.
C. Anticipated Housing Levy Programs are shown in Exhibit 1, attached hereto. The City
Council, upon recommendation of the Citizen Advisory Committee described in Section
7 of this ordinance, or upon recommendation of the Mayor or on its own motion, may
review the allocations to particular Housing Levy Programs and make changes to the
programs, including additions and deletions of programs and/or in the timing of or
amount of funds allocated to any program, consistent with the purposes of this
ordinance and applicable law. Administration funding shown on Exhibit 1 is intended to
be used for administration of the use of levy proceeds for all programs, including but
not limited to developing the Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan,
preparing and reviewing loan and grant applications, monitoring and auditing
performance and compliance with loan, grant and program requirements, and paying
for financial accounting, legal, and other administrative services necessary to
implement the Housing Levy Programs.
Section 6. Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan.
A. The Director of Planning and Community Development, or other such person as may
be designated by the Director or the Mayor, shall prepare a Low Income Housing
Administrative and Financing Plan ("Plan") covering all of the Housing Levy Programs,
The Plan shall cover the period commencing in 2013 and continue through 2019; shall
specify the plan for use of funds raised by the levy authorized by RCW 84.52.105; shall
be consistent with either the locally adopted or state -adopted comprehensive housing
affordability strategy, required under the Cranston -Gonzalez national affordable
housing act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12701, et seq.), as amended; and shall be approved by
City Council prior to the additional property tax levy being imposed pursuant to RCW
84.52.105.
B. The expenditure of all funds raised pursuant to this ordinance shall be as set forth in
the Plan adopted by City Council. The City Council reserves the right to amend the
Plan as it may in the future be determined as necessary or appropriate. The Plan
should be done in coordination with the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans
required by HUD for expenditure of HOME and CDBG funds for the benefit of low
income housing and community development needs in the City.
C. The City Council shall appropriate from the Low -Income Housing Fund, as part of the
City budget or supplementally, such monies derived from the levies authorized in this
ordinance as it deems necessary to carry out the Housing Levy Programs.
D. The Mayor, or other such person as may be designated by the Mayor, is authorized, for
and on behalf of the City, to select projects for funding and to approve, make and modify
loans, grants or other expenditures to carry out the Housing Levy Programs, provided
that such authority is subject to the appropriation of sufficient funds and consistent with
i
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HOME FUND ORDINANCE
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
(6) 360-778-8270
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the Plan approved by City Council pursuant to Sections 5 and 6. The Mayor and his or
her designees are further authorized, for and on behalf of the City, to execute and
deliver such documents and instruments as he or she may determine to be necessary or
appropriate to implement the financing of specific projects or to otherwise carry out the
Housing Levy Programs.
Section 7. Citizen Advisory Committee.
The Community Development Advisory Board ("CDAB"), established pursuant to BMC
2.46.010, shall advise the City Council, Mayor and the Director of Planning and Community
Development regarding the Housing Levy Programs authorized by this ordinance. CDAB
shall advise the Mayor and City Council on the Low Income Housing Administrative and
Financial Plan prepared pursuant to Section 6 of this ordinance. CDAB shall also assist in
monitoring the progress, performance and accomplishment of Housing Levy Programs, and
report such findings to the Mayor and City Council, including any problems and
recommendations on actions to be taken so that the Housing Levy Programs are
conducted in a timely and efficient manner for the benefit of low-income households.
Section 8. Election - BaIlot Title.
The City Council hereby requests that the Whatcom County Auditor, as ex officio
supervisor of elections, submit to the qualified electorate of the City for a vote, at the
November 6, 2012 general election, a proposition substantially in the form set forth in this
ordinance. The City Clerk is directed to certify to the Whatcom County Auditor the ballot
proposition to the electorate of the City in the form substantially as follows:
PROPOSITION NO. 1
Low -Income Housing Levy
The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012- 06-033
concerning property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
This proposition would fund housing and housing services for
people with low or very low incomes, including those with
disabilities, veterans, seniors, and families with children by (a)
authorizing an increase in the City's regular property tax levy by
up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000 of assessed value as allowed
by RCW 84.55; and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of
up to $0.24/$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105,
each for seven years, generating approximately $3,000,000
annually. Should this proposition be approved?
Yes?............. .................
71
No? ...............................
1-1
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (7) 360-778-8270
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Section 9. Corrections.
The Bellingham City Attorney's Office or the Auditor or her designee is authorized to make
necessary clerical corrections to this ordinance including, but not limited to, the correction of
scrivener's or clerical errors, references, ordinance numbering, section/subsection numbers
and any references thereto.
Section 10. Seyerability.
If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this resolution should be held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality
shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or
phrase of this resolution.
PASSED by the Council this 18th day of June
Council Pr Ident
APPROVED by me this OQ day of , 2012.
Mayor
now, nce it -
APP OWE A O1= M. Lb
Office of the City Attorney
Published:
June 22, 2012
HOME FUND ORDINANCE
2012,
State of Washington ;71to ola
County of Whatcom
(Date]
I certify that this is a true and corre copy of the
on na #cument co sicaing of pages.
(Si ure)
i &PA -b• " A4i,oE-x4,-0
Notary Public Y
My appointment expires: T
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
(8) 360-778-8270
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EXHIBIT 1
2013 HOUSING LEVY PROGRAMS
Estimated Housing
-
Total Funding
Produced/Households
Program
7 Years)
Assisted
Program Description/Affordability Levels
• Homes for people working at minimum wage, veterans,
seniors on fixed incomes, and people exiting homelessness
(households at or below 30% of median income)
Production and
429 homes (serving 8,500
0 Homes for local workers, working families up to 60% of
Preservation of Homes
$15,980,000
families over the useful life
median income
of these properties).
a Affordable and specialized homes for veterans, people with
disabilities, and seniors.
Rehabilitation and weatherization to increase affordability and
preserve existing affordable homes
Supportive services matched to specialized homes for
disabled veterans and chronically homeless individuals to
help them retain their homes and reduce costly care in
Rental Assistance and
hospital emergency department and other inappropriate
Support Services
$1,880.000
800 homes
systems of care
Temporary and long-term assistance to families and
individuals to help preserve their housing, prevent eviction
and homelessness (targeted households at or below 50% of
median income
Low-income homebuyer
Assistance to low-income homebuyers, including programs
$940,000
50 homes
that promote long -tens affordability of ownership housing
assistance
(targeted to households at or below 80% of median income
Acquisition and
• Short -tens loans for strategic purchases of buildings or land
$940,000
50 homes
for rental or homeownership housing development that will
Opportunity Loans
serve low-income households
Administration $1.260.000 n/a _
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (9) 360-778-8270
i i, i„i„i,,, i, i„i, i, 1, i„i„l I
Peter Ruffatto, City Attorney
City of Bellingham
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham WA 98225
Whatcom County Courthouse PRE°rn �oG 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
360-676-6740
360-738-4556 FAX
360-738-4555 TTY vs+r�nGsv�
E-mail: auditor&o.whatcom.wams
www.co.whatcom.wa.us/auditor
BALLOT MEASURE RECEIPT
Date Received -:�+2 1 ili Z,
Received From:
Whatcom County
Auditor's Office
Election Division
Name of Presenter
C I
Name of Orga 'anon
CA� l0 ` h
Address ��ll
L
Phone Email
Ballot Issue Name: �� D�i�L�Y1 r\b• I l�i p �I1 �lc�l'►'\
. �vJ- Incomes si� Iry
The Auditor's Office, Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above -
named Proposition for inclusion in the Election.
Deputy Auditor
I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\02_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.DOCAdopted 7/27/06
DF gELLIZ-V
J y
U
rvG�0
June 29, 2012
Debbie Adelstein
Whatcom County Auditor
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
210 Lottie Street, Bellingham,WA 98'PECEIVED
Telephone: (360) 778-8270
Fax: (360) 778-8271
Re: City of Bellingham — Low Income Housing Ballot .Proposition
Dear Ms. Adelstein:
JUL 2 2012
DEBBIE ADEIS7EIN
WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR
In accordance with the City Charter, the Bellingham Municipal Code, and the attached
ordinance, this letter shall serve as City of Bellingham formal action, pursuant to RCW
29A.04.330, to place this measure on the November 6, 2012 ballot. The ballot title is stated in
Section 8 of the ordinance.
Please call if you have any questions.
Y s v ry ly,
A�7-
Peter . Ru atto
City Attorney
Enc: Ordinance
cc: Kelli Linville, Mayor
Terry Bornemann, Council President
John Carter, Finance Director
David Stalheim, Block Grant Programs Manager
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
210 Lottie Street, Bellingham,WA 98
Telephone: (360) 778-8270 PECEIVED
Fax: (360) 778-8271
June 29, 2012
Debbie Adelstein
Whatcom County Auditor
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225
Re: City of Bellingham — Low Income Housing Ballot .Proposition
Dear Ms. Adelstein:
JUL 2 2012
DEBBIE ADELSTEIN
WHAT'CC€ M COUNTY AUDITOR
In accordance with the City Charter, the Bellingham Municipal Code, and the attached
ordinance, this letter shall serve as City of Bellingham formal action, pursuant to RCW
29A.04.330, to place this measure on the November 6, 2012 ballot. The ballot title is stated in
Section 8 of the ordinance.
Please call if you have any questions.
r ,
/'
Petero
City Attorney
Enc: Ordinance
cc: Kelli Linville, Mayor
Terry Bornemann, Council President
John Carter, Finance Director
David Stalheim, Block Grant Programs Manager
Whatcom County Courthouse Whatcom County
M �
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 3 z� Auditor's Office
360 676-6740 l _V`
360-738-4556 FAX y Election Division
360-738-4555 TTY
E-mail: auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us
www.co.whatcom.wa.us/auditor
BALLOT MEASURE RECEIPT
Date Received: ii2 1I -z--
Received From:
Name of Presenter
Cli 1n�
Name of Orga atian
Jib L,�h (" �t
Address
Phone Email
Ballot Issue Name' 1 �D���b� �• I �61A of _rt-1 haxy
jYl Si
Le_u
The Auditors Office, Election Division, acknowledges receipt of the above -
named Proposition for inclusion in the C-
">'.Y Election.
Deputy Auditor
I:\Policies & Procedures\Elections\02_Pre-Election\02_Filing - Ballot Measures\FRM RECEIPT for ballot measure.DOCAdopted 7/27/06
�O� gELLIA�'
7
U .r - 3�
0
June 29, 2012
Debbie Adelstein
Whatcom County Auditor
311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103
Bellingham, WA 98225
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
210 Lottie Street, Bellingham,WA 98PECEIVED
Telephone: (360) 778-8270
Fax: (360) 778-8271
Re: City of Bellingham — Low Income Housing Ballot Proposition
Dear Ms. Adelstein:
JUL 2 2012
DE13131E ADELSTEIN
WHATCOM COUNTY AWTOR
In accordance with the City Charter, the Bellingham Municipal Code, and the attached
ordinance, this letter shall serve as City of Bellingham formal action, pursuant to RCW
29A.04.330, to place this measure on the November 6, 2012 ballot. The ballot title is stated in
Section 8 of the ordinance.
Please call if you have any questions.
Y rs v ry I y,
lAV
eter . Ru alto
City Attorney
Enc: Ordinance
cc: Kelli Linville, Mayor
Terry Bornemann, Council President
John Carter, Finance Director
David Stalheim, Block Grant Programs Manager
RECEIVED
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ORDINANCE NO.
2012-06-033
JUL 2 2012
DEBBIE ADELSTEI
WHATCOM COUNTY AU ITOR
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM RELATING TO LOW-INCOME
HOUSING; REQUESTING THAT A SPECIAL ELECTION BE HELD CONCURRENT
WITH THE NOVEMBER 6, 2012 GENERAL ELECTION FOR SUBMISSION TO THE
QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF A PROPOSITION TO LIFT THE LIMIT ON
REGULAR PROPERTY TAXES UNDER CHAPTER 84.56 RCW FOR LOW-INCOME
HOUSING; DECLARING THE EXISTENCE OF AN EMERGENCY UNDER CHAPTER
84.52.106 AND REQUESTING VOTER APPROVAL OF AN ADDITIONAL PROPERTY
TAX FOR VERY LOW-INCOME HOUSING; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPIRATION OF
THE ADDITIONAL LEVIES AT THE END OF SEVEN YEARS; SETTING FORTH THE
BALLOT PROPOSITION; DESIGNATING A CITIZEN LEVY ADVISORY COMMITTEE;
AND PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMS WITH FUNDS DERIVED
FROM THE TAXES AUTHORIZED.
WHEREAS, Equity and Social Justice is a legacy that the City Council has adopted
for the City of Bellingham;
WHEREAS, Supporting safe, .affordable housing, supporting services for lower -
income residents, and providing access to problem -solving resources are the strategic
commitments the City Council has made to ensure Equity and Social Justice;
WHEREAS, a healthy community is one in which all members have access to basic
needs such as safe, secure and affordable homes and, despite the recent decline in home
purchase prices, homes remain unaffordable for a significant percentage of Bellingham
residents;
WHEREAS, households face a severe burden when housing costs (including
utilities) exceed 50 percent of household income;
WHEREAS, U.S. Census data has estimated that there are 7,400 low-income
households in Bellingham that face a severe housing cost burden by paying more than 50
percent of their income on housing costs;
WHEREAS, over 1,000 low-income elderly households in Bellingham pay more than
50 percent of their income on housing costs and face challenges in repairing their homes
without financial assistance;
WHEREAS, at any point in time, 500 people are homeless in Whatcom County,
according to the annual Point -in -Time Count, and 20 percent of all people experiencing
homelessness in Bellingham are children under 10 years of age, with adverse childhood
experiences that have profound and long-lasting negative consequences;
WHEREAS, local housing affordability efforts save public money by reducing
expenses for social services, emergency room medical care, triage, law enforcement and
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (1) 360-778-8270
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other costs associated with temporary and chronic homelessness, with two local programs
recently documenting that housing services resulted in increased access to mental health
services and a 90 percent reduction in criminal justice costs;
WHEREAS, recent investments of new, but very limited, grant funds resulted in
significant reductions in local homelessness, with 37 percent fewer homeless persons with
disabilities, 65 percent fewer homeless veterans, and 41 percent fewer homeless persons
overall;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 1,608 families on the waiting list
for public housing, 72 percent of which earn less than 30% of the Area Median Income and
44 percent are families with disabilities;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 400 households on the waiting
list for rental assistance vouchers, with an average waiting time to receive assistance of
more than four years;
WHEREAS, nearly one-third of Bellingham's housing stock is over 50 years old,
requiring repair, maintenance and weatherization that is often not affordable to low-income
households;
WHEREAS, local wages are not keeping pace with Bellingham's housing costs, with
average apartment rent increasing 17 percent while average wages increased only 5
percent since 2004;
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census, the median value of homes increased 96
percent from 2000 to 2010, while median family income increased just 23 percent;
WHEREAS, more affordable housing options near employment centers are good for
the environment, preventing long commutes with associated pollution, commuting
expenses, traffic congestion and road widening costs;
WHEREAS, the Countywide Housing Affordability Taskforce (CHAT) concluded its
18 month study and deliberation about housing affordability with a set of conclusions that
included among its top six recommendations the creation of additional local revenue
sources that assist in the delivery of homes affordable to low-income households;
WHEREAS, the proposed Bellingham Home Fund will result in $21,000,000 in local
funding that will be used as matching money to leverage other private and public funding
for housing affordability, serving an estimated 8,500 families over the useful life of the
properties that will be assisted with the Bellingham Home Fund;
WHEREAS, as a condition of receiving federal funding for low-income housing, the
City of Bellingham administers an affordable housing program with citizen oversight,
including preparation of five-year strategic plans, performance measures and outcomes,
and annual action plans;
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (2) 360-778-8270
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WHEREAS, the City of Bellingham can efficiently administer the proposed
Bellingham Home Fund in conjunction with its existing programs that manage federal
funding for housing affordability;
WHEREAS, Chapter 84.55 RCW generally limits the dollar amount of regular
property taxes that a city may levy in any year, but RCW 84,55.050 allows a city to levy
taxes exceeding such limit by majority approval of the voters and allows a city to include in
the ballot proposition a limit on the purpose for which the additional taxes levied will be
used and to provide for the expiration of the additional taxing authority;
WHEREAS, the proposed additional levy is within the limitations imposed by RCW
84.52.043;
WHEREAS, RCW 84.52.105 authorizes a city to impose additional regular property
tax levies to finance affordable housing for very low-income households when specifically
authorized to do so by a majority of the voters of the taxing district voting on a ballot
proposition authorizing the levy; and
WHEREAS, RCW 35.21.685 authorizes a city to assist in the development or
preservation of publicly or privately owned housing for persons of low income by providing
loans or grants of general municipal funds to the owners or developers of the housing,
including loans or grants to finance the acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of low-
income housing, and to provide rental assistance and other supportive services, to low-
income persons;
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. Findings. The City Council makes the following findings and declares as
follows:
A. The City's Consolidated Plan and Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan identify
insufficient safe, sanitary, and decent housing affordable to low- and very low-income
households to meet the present and anticipated needs of such households, including
homes affordable for local working people, U.S. military veterans, families with children,
people with limited or fixed incomes including senior citizens and people having a
disability.
B. Affordable rental housing for low-income households, including the homeless, other
persons with special needs, families and seniors, often requires a commitment of City
funds for development or preservation, or other forms of assistance.
C. Promoting and preserving home ownership for low-income households contributes to
the stability of families and neighborhoods; helps preserve the physical condition of
residential properties; and addresses the shortage of safe, sanitary, affordable housing
both by maintaining and enhancing the supply of owner -occupied housing and by
limiting the demand for scarce low-income rental housing that otherwise would exist
from households unable to afford to purchase homes or to maintain existing homes.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (3) 360-778-8270
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D. The additional taxes to be levied under this ordinance will enable the City to provide for
the housing needs of low- and very low-income households and thereby work to fulfill
the purposes of federal, state and City laws and policies, including, without limitation,
the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Act, federal Community Development Block
Grant, the State Growth Management Act and the City's Comprehensive Plan.
E. An emergency exists with respect to the availability of housing that is affordable to very
low-income households in the City of Bellingham.
Section 2. Definitions. The following terms used in this ordinance shall have the
definitions stated below, unless the context otherwise clearly requires:
A. "Affordable housing" means residential housing for rental or private individual
ownership which, as long as the same is occupied by low-income households, requires
payment of monthly housing costs, including utilities, other than telephone, of no more
than 30 percent of the household's income.
B. "Low-income housing" means housing that will serve "low-income households."
C. "Household" means a single person, family or unrelated persons living together.
D. "Low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to eighty
percent (80%) of median income.
E. "Median income" means annual median family income for the statistical area or division
thereof including Bellingham for which median family income is published from time to
time by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or successor
agency, with adjustments according to household size.
F. "Very low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to 50
percent of median income.
To the extent permitted by applicable State law, income determinations may take into
account such exclusions, adjustments and rules of computation as may be prescribed or
used under federal housing laws, regulations or policies for purposes of establishing
income limits, or as may be established in City housing and community development plan
documents consistent with federal laws, regulations or policies.
Section 3. Proposition to Authorize Levy of Additional Regular Property Taxes;
Affordable Housing Plan.
The City submits to the qualified electors of the City a proposition as authorized by RCW
84.55.050(1), to exceed the levy limitation on regular property taxes contained in Chapter
84.55 RCW for property taxes levied in 2012 through 2018 for collection in 2013 through
2019, respectively. The proposition would also authorize an additional property tax levy for
very low-income housing under RCW 84.52.105. The proposition would raise
approximately $3,000,000 per year totaling an estimated $21,000,000 in aggregate over a
period of up to seven years.
A. The proposition would permit the City to increase its regular property tax levy by up
to $0.12 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, resulting in a regular property tax levy of
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (4) 360-778-8270
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$2.62 per $1,000 for collection in 2013. All the levy proceeds shall be used for the
purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance.
B. The proposition would also authorize the City to impose an additional regular
property tax levy of up to $0.24 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for very low-
income housing pursuant to RCW 84.52,105, The limitations in RCW 84.52.043
shall not apply to the tax levy authorized by this part. All the levy proceeds shall be
used for the purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance and may not be imposed
by the City Council until the City adopts an affordable housing financing plan as set
forth in Section 6 of this ordinance.
C. The taxes authorized by this proposition will be in addition to the maximum amount of
regular property taxes the City would have been limited to by RCW 84.55.010 in the
absence of voter approval under this ordinance, plus other authorized lid lifts.
Thereafter, such levy amount would be used to compute limitations for subsequent
years as allowed by chapter 84.55 RCW. Pursuant to RCW 84.55.050(5), the maximum
regular property taxes that may be levied in 2019 for collection in 2020 and in later
years shall be computed as if the limit on regular property taxes had not been
increased under this ordinance.
Section 4. LevyRevenues.
A. Unless otherwise directed by ordinance, all revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be deposited initially in the Low -
Income Housing Fund to be used as set forth in Section 5 and as described in the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plans, as may be adopted by the City
Council under Sections 5 and 6 of this ordinance. The Finance Director is authorized to
create other subfunds or accounts within the Low -Income Housing Fund as may be
needed or appropriate to implement the purposes of this ordinance.
B. Pending expenditure for the purposes authorized in this ordinance, amounts deposited
in the Low -Income Housing Fund pursuant to this ordinance may be invested in any
investments permitted by applicable law. All investment earnings on the balances shall
be deposited into the Low -Income Housing Fund. Amounts received by the City from
payments with respect to loans, recovery of grants, insurance proceeds or proceeds of
sale or disposition of property ("program income") shall be deposited into the Low -
Income Housing Fund unless otherwise specified by ordinance. Any investment
earnings and program income derived from revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be used for the purposes set forth in
this ordinance and as authorized by the City Council.
Section 5. Administration; Use of Proceeds.
A. The levy funds shall be used to pay for affordable housing for low and very low-income
households, pay for affordable housing programs, and otherwise to provide for the
housing needs of low and very low-income households; provided that all funds raised
from the levy authorized by RCW 84.52,105 shall be dedicated to affordable housing
for very low-income households.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
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C
The Planning and Community Development Department, or such other department as
may be designated by ordinance, shall administer programs funded with the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance. Any programs adopted by the City Council
for use of the funds derived under this ordinance shall be referred to as "Housing Levy
Programs." Housing Levy Programs shall be implemented consistent with the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan, as may be adopted by the City
Council and as may thereafter be amended from time to time.
Anticipated Housing Levy Programs are shown in Exhibit 1, attached hereto. The City
Council, upon recommendation of the Citizen Advisory Committee described in Section
7 of this ordinance, or upon recommendation of the Mayor or on its own motion, may
review the allocations to particular Housing Levy Programs and make changes to the
programs, including additions and deletions of programs and/or in the timing of or
amount of funds allocated to any program, consistent with the purposes of this
ordinance and applicable law. Administration funding shown on Exhibit 1 is intended to
be used for administration of the use of levy proceeds for all programs, including but
not limited to developing the Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan,
preparing and reviewing loan and grant applications, monitoring and auditing
performance and compliance with loan, grant and program requirements, and paying
for financial accounting, legal, and other administrative services necessary to
implement the Housing Levy Programs.
Section 6. Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan.
A. The Director of Planning and Community Development, or other such person as may
be designated by the Director or the Mayor, shall prepare a Low Income Housing
Administrative and Financing Plan ("Plan") covering all of the Housing Levy Programs,
The Plan shall cover the period commencing in 2013 and continue through 2019; shall
specify the plan for use of funds raised by the levy authorized by RCW 84.52.105; shall
be consistent with either the locally adopted or state -adopted comprehensive housing
affordability strategy, required under the Cranston -Gonzalez national affordable
housing act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12701, et seq.), as amended; and shall be approved by
City Council prior to the additional property tax levy being imposed pursuant to RCW
84.52.105.
B. The expenditure of all funds raised pursuant to this ordinance shall be as set forth in
the Plan adopted by City Council. The City Council reserves the right to amend the
Plan as it may in the future be determined as necessary or appropriate. The Plan
should be done in coordination with the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans
required by HUD for expenditure of HOME and CDBG funds for the benefit of low
income housing and community development needs in the City.
C. The City Council shall appropriate from the Low -Income Housing Fund, as part of the
City budget or supplementally, such monies derived from the levies authorized in this
ordinance as it deems necessary to carry out the Housing Levy Programs.
D. The Mayor, or other such person as may be designated by the Mayor, is authorized, for
and on behalf of the City, to select projects for funding and to approve, make and modify
loans, grants or other expenditures to carry out the Housing Levy Programs, provided
that such authority is subject to the appropriation of sufficient funds and consistent with
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
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the Plan approved by City Council pursuant to Sections 5 and 6. The Mayor and his or
her designees are further authorized, for and on behalf of the City, to execute and
deliver such documents and instruments as he or she may determine to be necessary or
appropriate to implement the financing of specific projects or to otherwise carry out the
Housing Levy Programs.
Section 7. Citizen Advisory Committee.
The Community Development Advisory Board ("CDAB"), established pursuant to BMC
2.46.010. shall advise the City Council, Mayor and the Director of Planning and Community
Development regarding the Housing Levy Programs authorized by this ordinance. CDAB
shall advise the Mayor and City Council on the Low Income Housing Administrative and
Financial Plan prepared pursuant to Section 6 of this ordinance. CDAB shall also assist in
monitoring the progress, performance and accomplishment of Housing Levy Programs, and
report such findings to the Mayor and City Council, including any problems and
recommendations on actions to be taken so that the Housing Levy Programs are
conducted in a timely and efficient manner for the benefit of low-income households.
Section 8. Election - Ballot Title.
The City Council hereby requests that the Whatcom County Auditor, as ex officio
supervisor of elections, submit to the qualified electorate of the City for a vote, at the
November 6, 2012 general election, a proposition substantially in the form set forth in this
ordinance. The City Clerk is directed to certify to the Whatcom County Auditor the ballot
proposition to the electorate of the City in the form substantially as follows:
PROPOSITION NO. 1
Low -Income Housing Levy
The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012-_
concerning property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
This proposition would fund housing and housing services for
people with low or very low incomes, including those with
disabilities, veterans, seniors, and families with children by (a)
authorizing an increase in the City's regular property tax levy by
up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000 of assessed value as allowed
by RCW 84.55; and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of
up to $0.24/$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105,
each for seven years, generating approximately $3,000,000
annually. Should this proposition be approved?
Yes? ..............................
No?.. .... .... ...................
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
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Section 9. Corrections.
The Bellingham City Attorney's Office or the Auditor or her designee is authorized to make
necessary clerical corrections to this ordinance including, but not limited to, the correction of
scrivener's or clerical errors, references, ordinance numbering, section/subsection numbers
and any references thereto.
Section 10. Severability.
If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this resolution should be held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality
shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or
phrase of this resolution.
PASSED by the Council this 18th day of June , 2012.
Council Pr ident
APPROVED by me this � day of IkAtl 2012.
0 A�1�
- Director
APP OVE A O F M:
Office of the City Attorney
Published:
June 22, 2012
HOME FUND ORDINANCE
Mayor
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
(8) 360-778-8270
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EXHIBIT 1
2013 HOUSING LEVY PROGRAMS
Estimated Housing
Total Funding Produced/Households
Pr ram (jYears) Assisted Program Description/Affordability Levels
a Homes for people working at minimum wage, veterans,
seniors on fixed incomes, and people exiting homelessness
(households at or below 30% of median income)
Production and 429 homes (serving 8,500 a Homes for local workers, working families up to 60% of
Preservation of Homes $15,980,000 families over the useful life median income
of these properties). a Affordable and specialized homes for veterans, people with
disabilities, and seniors.
a Rehabilitation and weatherization to increase affordability and
preserve existing affordable homes
a Supportive services matched to specialized homes for
disabled veterans and chronically homeless individuals to
help them retain their homes and reduce costly pre in
Rental Assistance and
hospital emergency department and other inappropriate
Support Services
$1,880.000
800 homes
systems of pre
a Temporary and long-term assistance to families and
individuals to help preserve their housing, prevent eviction
and homelessness (targeted households at or below 50% of
median income
Low-income homebuyer
a Assistance to low-income homebuyers, including programs
assistance
$940,000
50 homes
that promote long-term affordability of ownership housing
tar eted to households at or below 80% of median income)
Acquisition and
a Short-term loans for strategic purchases of buildings or land
Opportunity Loans
$940,000
50 homes
for rental or homeownership housing development that will
I $1.260.000
n/a
serve low-income households
Administration
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (9) 360-778-8270
RECEIVED
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ORDINANCE NO.
2012-06-033
JUL 2 2012
DEBBIE ADELSTEII
WHATCOM COUNTY AUI
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM RELATING TO LOW-INCOME
HOUSING; REQUESTING THAT A SPECIAL ELECTION BE HELD CONCURRENT
WITH THE NOVEMBER 6, 2012 GENERAL ELECTION FOR SUBMISSION TO THE
QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF A PROPOSITION TO LIFT THE LIMIT ON
REGULAR PROPERTY TAXES UNDER CHAPTER 84.56 RCW FOR LOW-INCOME
HOUSING; DECLARING THE EXISTENCE OF AN EMERGENCY UNDER CHAPTER
84.52.106 AND REQUESTING VOTER APPROVAL OF AN ADDITIONAL PROPERTY
TAX FOR VERY LOW-INCOME HOUSING; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPIRATION OF
THE ADDITIONAL LEVIES AT THE END OF SEVEN YEARS; SETTING FORTH THE
BALLOT PROPOSITION; DESIGNATING A CITIZEN LEVY ADVISORY COMMITTEE;
AND PROVIDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMS WITH FUNDS DERIVED
FROM THE TAXES AUTHORIZED.
WHEREAS, Equity and Social Justice is a legacy that the City Council has adopted
for the City of Bellingham;
WHEREAS, Supporting safe, .affordable housing, supporting services for lower -
income residents, and providing access to problem -solving resources are the strategic
commitments the City Council has made to ensure Equity and Social Justice;
WHEREAS, a healthy community is one in which all members have access to basic
needs such as safe, secure and affordable homes and, despite the recent decline in home
purchase prices, homes remain unaffordable for a significant percentage of Bellingham
residents;
WHEREAS, households face a severe burden when housing costs (including
utilities) exceed 50 percent of household income;
WHEREAS, U.S. Census data has estimated that there are 7,400 low-income
households in Bellingham that face a severe housing cost burden by paying more than 50
percent of their income on housing costs;
WHEREAS, over 1,000 low-income elderly households in Bellingham pay more than
50 percent of their income on housing costs and face challenges in repairing their homes
without financial assistance;
WHEREAS, at any point in time, 500 people are homeless in Whatcom County,
according to the annual Point -in -Time Count, and 20 percent of all people experiencing
homelessness in Bellingham are children under 10 years of age, with adverse childhood
experiences that have profound and long-lasting negative consequences;
WHEREAS, local housing affordability efforts save public money by reducing
expenses for social services, emergency room medical care, triage, law enforcement and
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
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other costs associated with temporary and chronic homelessness, with two local programs
recently documenting that housing services resulted in increased access to mental health
services and a 90 percent reduction in criminal justice costs; .
WHEREAS, recent investments of new, but very limited, grant funds resulted in
significant reductions in local homelessness, with 37 percent fewer homeless persons with
disabilities, 65 percent fewer homeless veterans, and 41 percent fewer homeless persons
overall;
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 1,608 families on the waiting list
for public housing, 72 percent of which earn less than 30% of the Area Median Income and
44 percent are families with disabilities, -
WHEREAS, the Bellingham Housing Authority has 400 households on the waiting
list for rental assistance vouchers, with an average waiting time to receive assistance of
more than four years;
WHEREAS, nearly one-third of Bellingham's housing stock is over 50 years old,
requiring repair, maintenance and weatherization that is often not affordable to low-income
households;
WHEREAS, local wages are not keeping pace with Bellingham's housing costs, with
average apartment rent increasing 17 percent while average wages increased only 5
percent since 2004;
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census, the median value of homes increased 96
percent from 2000 to 2010, while median family income increased just 23 percent;
WHEREAS, more affordable housing options near employment centers are good for
the environment, preventing long commutes with associated pollution, commuting
expenses, traffic congestion and road widening costs;
WHEREAS, the Countywide Housing Affordability Taskforce (CHAT) concluded its
18 month study and deliberation about housing affordability with a set of conclusions that
included among its top six recommendations the creation of additional local revenue
sources that assist in the delivery of homes affordable to low-income households;
WHEREAS, the proposed Bellingham Home Fund will result in $21,000,000 in local
funding that will be used as matching money to leverage other private and public funding
for housing affordability, serving an estimated 8,500 families over the useful life of the
properties that will be assisted with the Bellingham Home Fund;
WHEREAS, as a condition of receiving federal funding for low-income housing, the
City of Bellingham administers an affordable housing program with citizen oversight,
including preparation of five-year strategic plans, performance measures and outcomes,
and annual action plans;
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (2) 360-778-8270
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WHEREAS, the City of Bellingham can efficiently administer the proposed
Bellingham Home Fund in conjunction with its existing programs that manage federal
funding for housing affordability;
WHEREAS, Chapter 84.55 RCW generally limits the dollar amount of regular
property taxes that a city may levy in any year, but RCW 84.55.050 allows a city to levy
taxes exceeding such limit by majority approval of the voters and allows a city to include in
the ballot proposition a limit on the purpose for which the additional taxes levied will be
used and to provide for the expiration of the additional taxing authority;
WHEREAS, the proposed additional levy is within the limitations imposed by RCW
84.52.043;
WHEREAS, RCW 84.52.105 authorizes a city to impose additional regular property
tax levies to finance affordable housing for very low-income households when specifically
authorized to do so by a majority of the voters of the taxing district voting on a ballot
proposition authorizing the levy; and
WHEREAS, RCW 35,21.685 authorizes a city to assist in the development or
preservation of publicly or privately owned housing for persons of low income by providing
loans or grants of general municipal funds to the owners or developers of the housing,
including loans or grants to finance the acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of low-
income housing, and to provide rental assistance and other supportive services, to low-
income persons;
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. Finding§. The City Council makes the following findings and declares as
follows:
A. The City's Consolidated Plan and Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan identify
insufficient safe, sanitary, and decent housing affordable to low- and very low-income
households to meet the present and anticipated needs of such households, including
homes affordable for local working people, U.S. military veterans, families with children,
people with limited or fixed incomes including senior citizens and people having a
disability.
B. Affordable rental housing for low-income households, including the homeless, other
persons with special needs, families and seniors, often requires a commitment of City
funds for development or preservation, or other forms of assistance.
C. Promoting and preserving home ownership for low-income households contributes to
the stability of families and neighborhoods; helps preserve the physical condition of
residential properties; and addresses the shortage of safe, sanitary, affordable housing
both by maintaining and enhancing the supply of owner -occupied housing and by
limiting the demand for scarce low-income rental housing that otherwise would exist
from households unable to afford to purchase homes or to maintain existing homes.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (3) 360-778-8270
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D. The additional taxes to be levied under this ordinance will enable the City to provide for
the housing needs of low- and very low-income households and thereby work to fulfill
the purposes of federal, state and City laws and policies, including, without limitation,
the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Act, federal Community Development Block
Grant, the State Growth Management Act and the City's Comprehensive Plan.
E. An emergency exists with respect to the availability of housing that is affordable to very
low-income households in the City of Bellingham.
Section 2. Definitions. The following terms used in this ordinance shall have the
definitions stated below, unless the context otherwise clearly requires:
A. "Affordable housing" means residential housing for rental or private individual
ownership which, as long as the same is occupied by low-income households, requires
payment of monthly housing costs, including utilities, other than telephone, of no more
than 30 percent of the household's income.
B. "Low-income housing" means housing that will serve "low-income households."
C. "Household" means a single person, family or unrelated persons living together.
D. "Low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to eighty
percent (80%) of median income.
E. "Median income" means annual median family income for the statistical area or division
thereof including Bellingham for which median family income is published from time to
time by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or successor
agency, with adjustments according to household size.
F. "Very low-income household" means a household with income less than or equal to 50
percent of median income.
To the extent permitted by applicable State law, income determinations may take into
account such exclusions, adjustments and rules of computation as may be prescribed or
used under federal housing laws, regulations or policies for purposes of establishing
income limits, or as may be established in City housing and community development plan
documents consistent with federal laws, regulations or policies.
Section 3. Proposition to Authorize Levy of Additional Reaular Property Taxes
Affordable Housing Plan.
The City submits to the qualified electors of the City a proposition as authorized by RCW
84.55.050(1), to exceed the levy limitation on regular property taxes contained in Chapter
84.55 RCW for property taxes levied in 2012 through 2018 for collection in 2013 through
2019, respectively. The proposition would also authorize an additional property tax levy for
very low-income housing under RCW 84.52.105. The proposition would raise
approximately $3,000,000 per year totaling an estimated $21,000,000 in aggregate over a
period of up to seven years.
A. The proposition would permit the City to increase its regular property tax levy by up
to $0.12 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, resulting in a regular property tax levy of
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (4) 360-778-8270
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$2.62 per $1,000 for collection in 2013. All the levy proceeds shall be used for the
purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance.
B. The proposition would also authorize the City to impose an additional regular
property tax levy of up to $0.24 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for very low-
income housing pursuant to RCW 84.52.105. The limitations in RCW 84.52.043
shall not apply to the tax levy authorized by this part. All the levy proceeds shall be
used for the purposes specified in Section 5 of this ordinance and may not be imposed
by the City Council until the City adopts an affordable housing financing plan as set
forth in Section 6 of this ordinance.
C. The taxes authorized by this proposition will be in addition to the maximum amount of
regular property taxes the City would have been limited to by RCW 84.55.010 in the
absence of voter approval under this ordinance, plus other authorized lid lifts.
Thereafter, such levy amount would be used to compute limitations for subsequent
years as allowed by chapter 84.55 RCW. Pursuant to RCW 84.55.050(5), the maximum
regular property taxes that may be levied in 2019 for collection in 2020 and in later
years shall be computed as if the limit on regular property taxes had not been
increased under this ordinance.
Section 4. Levy Revenues.
A. Unless otherwise directed by ordinance, all revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be deposited initially in the Low -
Income Housing Fund to be used as set forth in Section 5 and as described in the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plans, as may be adopted by the City
Council under Sections 5 and 6 of this ordinance. The Finance Director is authorized to
create other subfunds or accounts within the Low -Income Housing Fund as may be
needed or appropriate to implement the purposes of this ordinance.
B. Pending expenditure for the purposes authorized in this ordinance, amounts deposited
in the Low -Income Housing Fund pursuant to this ordinance may be invested in any
investments permitted by applicable law. All investment earnings on the balances shall
be deposited into the Low -Income Housing Fund. Amounts received by the City from
payments with respect to loans, recovery of grants, insurance proceeds or proceeds of
sale or disposition of property ("program income") shall be deposited into the Low -
Income Housing Fund unless otherwise specified by ordinance. Any investment
earnings and program income derived from revenues collected from the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance shall be used for the purposes set forth in
this ordinance and as authorized by the City Council.
Section 5. Administration; Use of Proceeds.
A. The levy funds shall be used to pay for affordable housing for low and very low-income
households, pay for affordable housing programs, and otherwise to provide for the
housing needs of low and very low-income households; provided that all funds raised
from the levy authorized by RCW 84,52.105 shall be dedicated to affordable housing
for very low-income households.
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (5) 360-778-8270
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L
C
The Planning and Community Development Department, or such other department as
may be designated by ordinance, shall administer programs funded with the additional
taxes authorized pursuant to this ordinance. Any programs adopted by the City Council
for use of the funds derived under this ordinance shall be referred to as "Housing Levy
Programs." Housing Levy Programs shall be implemented consistent with the Low
Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan, as may be adopted by the City
Council and as may thereafter be amended from time to time.
Anticipated Housing Levy Programs are shown in Exhibit 1, attached hereto. The City
Council, upon recommendation of the Citizen Advisory Committee described in Section
7 of this ordinance, or upon recommendation of the Mayor or on its own motion, may
review the allocations to particular Housing Levy Programs and make changes to the
programs, including additions and deletions of programs and/or in the timing of or
amount of funds allocated to any program, consistent with the purposes of this
ordinance and applicable law. Administration funding shown on Exhibit 1 is intended to
be used for administration of the use of levy proceeds for all programs, including but
not limited to developing the Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan,
preparing and reviewing loan and grant applications, monitoring and auditing
performance and compliance with loan, grant and program requirements, and paying
for financial accounting, legal, and other administrative services necessary to
implement the Housing Levy Programs.
Section 6. Low Income Housing Administrative and Financing Plan.
A. The Director of Planning and Community Development, or other such person as may
be designated by the Director or the Mayor, shall prepare a Low Income Housing
Administrative and Financing Plan ("Plan") covering all of the Housing Levy Programs.
The Plan shall cover the period commencing in 2013 and continue through 2019; shall
specify the plan for use of funds raised by the levy authorized by RCW 84.52.105; shall
be consistent with either the locally adopted or state -adopted comprehensive housing
affordability strategy, required under the Cranston -Gonzalez national affordable
housing act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12701, et seq.), as amended; and shall be approved by
City Council prior to the additional property tax levy being imposed pursuant to RCW
84.52.105.
B. The expenditure of all funds raised pursuant to this ordinance shall be as set forth in
the Plan adopted by City Council. The City Council reserves the right to amend the
Plan as it may in the future be determined as necessary or appropriate. The Plan
should be done in coordination with the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans
required by HUD for expenditure of HOME; and CDBG funds for the benefit of low
income housing and community development needs in the City.
C. The City Council shall appropriate from the Low -Income Housing Fund, as part of the
City budget or supplementally, such monies derived from the levies authorized in this
ordinance as it deems necessary to carry out the Housing Levy Programs.
D. The Mayor, or other such person as may be designated by the Mayor, is authorized, for
and on behalf of the City, to select projects for funding and to approve, make and modify
loans, grants or other expenditures to carry out the Housing Levy Programs, provided
that such authority is subject to the appropriation of sufficient funds and consistent with
HOME FUND ORDINANCE
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
(6) 360-778-8270
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the Plan approved by City Council pursuant to Sections 5 and 6. The Mayor and his or
her designees are further authorized, for and on behalf of the City, to execute and
deliver such documents and instruments as he or she may determine to be necessary or
appropriate to implement the financing of specific projects or to otherwise carry out the
Housing Levy Programs.
Section 7. Citizen Advisory Committee.
The Community Development Advisory Board ("CDAB"), established pursuant to BMC
2.46.010, shall advise the City Council, Mayor and the Director of Planning and Community
Development regarding the Housing Levy Programs authorized by this ordinance. CDAB
shall advise the Mayor and City Council on the Low Income Housing Administrative and
Financial Plan prepared pursuant to Section 6 of this ordinance. CDAB shall also assist in
monitoring the progress, performance and accomplishment of Housing Levy Programs, and
report such findings to the Mayor and City Council, including any problems and
recommendations on actions to be taken so that the Housing Levy Programs are
conducted in a timely and efficient manner for the benefit of low-income households.
Section 8. Election - Ballot Title.
The City Council hereby requests that the Whatcom County Auditor, as ex ohficio
supervisor of elections, submit to the qualified electorate of the City for a vote, at the
November 6, 2012 general election, a proposition substantially in the form set forth in this
ordinance. The City Clerk is directed to certify to the Whatcom County Auditor the ballot
proposition to the electorate of the City in the form substantially as follows:
PROPOSITION NO. 1
Low -Income Housing Levy
The City of Bellingham Council adopted Ordinance No. 2012-_
concerning property taxes for low-income housing assistance.
This proposition would fund housing and housing services for
people with low or very low incomes, including those with
disabilities, veterans, seniors, and families with children by (a)
authorizing an increase in the City's regular property tax levy by
up to $0.12/$1,000 to $2.62/$1,000 of assessed value as allowed
by RCW 84.55, and (b) authorizing a regular property tax levy of
up to $0.241$1,000 of assessed value under RCW 84.52.105,
each for seven years, generating approximately $3,000,000
annually. Should this proposition be approved?
Yes?. . ............... ...........
El
No?.. ............................. F
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (7) 360-778-8270
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Section 9. Corrections.
The Bellingham City Attorney's Office or the Auditor or her designee is authorized to make
necessary clerical corrections to this ordinance including, but not limited to, the correction of
scrivener's or clerical errors, references, ordinance numbering, section/subsection numbers
and any references thereto.
Section 10. Severabilify.
If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this resolution should be held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality
shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or
phrase of this resolution.
PASSED by the Council this 18th day of June , 2012.
Council Pr tdent
APPROVED by me this I) q Ad
day of J, 2012,
Mayor
APP OVE A O7M-
F
Office of the City Aitorney
Published:
June 22, 2012
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
HOME FUND ORDINANCE (8) 360-778-8270
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EXHIBIT 1
2013 HOUSING LEVY PROGRAMS
Estimated Housing
Total Funding
Produced/Households
Program
7 Years
Assisted
Program Description/Affordability Levels
a Homes for people working at minimum wage, veterans,
seniors on fixed incomes, and people exiting homelessness
(households at or below 30% of median income)
Production and
429 homes (serving 8,500
a Homes for local workers, working families up to 60% of
Preservation of Homes
$15,980,000
families over the useful life
median income
of these properties).
a Affordable and specialized homes for veterans, people with
disabilities, and seniors.
a Rehabilitation and weatherization to increase affordability and
preserve e)asting affordable homes
• Supportive services matched to specialized homes for
disabled veterans and chronically homeless individuals to
help them retain their homes and reduce costly pre in
Rental Assistance and
hospital emergency department and other inappropriate
Support Services
$1,880.000
800 homes
systems of care
a Temporary and long-term assistance to families and
individuals to help preserve their housing, prevent eviction
and homelessness (targeted households at or below 50% of
median income) —
Low -income homebuyer
a Assistance to low-income homebuyers, including programs
assistance
$940•000
50 homes
that promote long-term affordability of ownership housing
(targeted to households at or below 80% of median income)
a Short-term loans for strategic purchases of buildings or land
Acquisition and
Opportunity Loans
$940,000
50 homes
for rental or homeownership housing development that will
serve low-income households
Administration
! $1,260,000
n/a
HOME FUND ORDINANCE
(9)
City of Bellingham
City Attorney
210 Lottie Street
Bellingham, Washington 98225
360-778-8270