HomeMy WebLinkAbout(0040) M&C 19-0346City of Fort Worth, Texas
Mayor and Council Communication
DATE: 12/03/19 M&C FILE NUMBER: M&C 19-0346
LOG NAME: 19NSTDHCA-LIHEAP2020
SUBJECT
Authorize Acceptance of a Grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for the 2020 Low -Income Housing Energy
Assistance Program, a Federally Funded Program Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Designed to Provide
Assistance for Low to Moderate Income Residents to Lower Home Energy Costs, in an Amount Up to $1,500,000.00, Authorize Related
Contracts, Adopt Appropriation Ordinance, and Waive Indirect Costs (ALL COUNCIL DISTRICTS)
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Authorize the acceptance of a grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs in an amount up to $1,500,000.00 for the
2020 Low -Income Housing Energy Assistance Program;
2. Authorize the execution of related contracts, including any amendments, extensions and renewals, in accordance with City policies and
regulations, with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for the grant funds for program year January 1, 2020 through December
31, 2020;
3. Adopt the attached appropriation ordinance increasing estimated receipts and appropriations in the Grants Operating Federal Fund in the
amount of $1,500,000.00, subject to receipt of the grant; and
4. Waive indirect costs in the estimated amount of $49,500.00.
DISCUSSION:
Since 1982, the City has operated the Low -Income Housing Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through grants from the Texas Department of
Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). This program serves low-income residents in Tarrant County by weatherizing their homes, making them
more energy efficient. Weatherization measures include attic insulation, weather-stripping, caulking, repair and/or replacement of windows and
doors and other minor repairs. Administrative costs are restricted to seven percent of the LIHEAP grant based on the total allowable expenditures
for the Low -Income Housing Energy Assistance Program.
The City has weatherized approximately 55 houses with funding from this grant between January and September 2019 and projects completing
175 houses in 2020. All Weatherization Assistance Program funding will allow for up to 200 homes to be weatherized.
A waiver by the City of indirect costs will maximize benefits. LIHEAP provides for 2.50 full time positions with estimated direct salaries of
$135,000.00. The addition of indirect costs would result in the reduction of services and staff. The estimated indirect costs to be waived are
$49,500.00.
This program services ALL COUNCIL DISTRICTS.
A Form 1295 is not required because: This contract will be with a governmental entity, state agency or public institution of higher education: Texas
Department of Housing and Community Affairs
FISCAL INFORMATION / CERTIFICATION:
The Director of Finance certifies that, upon approval of the above recommendations, receipt of the grant, and adoption of the attached
appropriation ordinance, funds will be available in the current operating budget, as appropriated, of the Grants Operating Federal Fund.
Neighborhood Services will be responsible for the collection and deposit of funds due to the City. Prior to expenditures being incurred,
Neighborhood Services has the responsibility to validate the availability of funds. This is a reimbursement grant.
Submitted for City Manager's Office by. Fernando Costa 6122
Originating Business Unit Head: Sonia Singleton 5774
Additional Information Contact: Monique Hill 5775