TR-2011-54 MASS COMM DEV BLOCK GRANT PF
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-
0 Oct
TR-201 I,
,�4
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF A
MASSACHUSETTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
(Sponsored By- Mayor Richard A. Cohen)
WHEREAS, the objective of the CDBG program is to support communities in their effort
to provide decent housing and suitable living environments, and expand economic
opportunities; and
WHEREAS, the last time the Town of Agawam received a Community Development
Block Grant was 1983; and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of funds received under the grant could be expended to
address sidewalk and roadway improvements along the Springfield Street corridor
thereby improving the pedestrian experience and the roadway;
WHEREAS, the proposed use of funds received under the grant could be expended to
prepare an ADA-Compliant Self Evaluation & Transition Plan to identify locations in
need of accessibility improvements; and C
I
r-_4
WHEREAS, the proposed funds received under the grant could be expended to und�FftakS*4:*;7%i
a Housing Rehabilitation program to assist low and moderate income households, a9%
'PIC
WHEREAS, the proposed use of funds received under the grant could be expended fa :V=7'
code improvements at Colonial Haven and Brady Village; and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the Town of Agawam to apply for and accept C_
funds under the Community Development Block Grant program. CD r
NOW THEREFORE, the Agawam Town Council hereby resolves; that the Mayor apply
for said grant and that he execute all documents necessary to secure the award of the
grant,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the Town of Agawam is awarded said grant that it
accept the grant pursuant to M.G.L. 44§ 53A and to expend funds pursuant to the Town
of Agawam FYI 2 Community Development Strategy and that the Mayor execute any
necessary documents to that end.
Dated thisLp day of 201-1,
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM TOWN COUNCIL
DonaVM. Rheault, President
0 rAP OVE2DA. S TO FORM AND LEGALITY kcutn 01
lj�
�Iincent'F Gioscia, Solicitor
MAYORAL ACTION
Received this —day of _�Jb�m it r , 2011 from Council Clerk.
Signed by Council President this day of 2011.
APPROVAL OF LEGISLATION
By the powers vested in me pursuant to Article 3, Section 3-6 of the Agaw Chafter,,as
ainjended I h eby approve the passage of the above legislation on tt �ay f
2011.
Richard A. Coben, Mayor
DISAPPROVAL OF LEGISLATION
By the powers vested in me pursuant to Article 3, Section 3-6 of the Agawam Charter, as
amended, I hereby veto the passage of the above legislation on this day of
2011 for the following reason(s):
Richard A. Cohen, Mayor
RETURN OF LEGISLATION TO COUNCIL CLERK
Returned to Council Clerk this day of- �Jwmdm V' 2011.
A��_�_ ,� 4,1,6W,
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Item 9. Public HearinXs
I. PH-2011-6 (TR-2011-54)A Resolution Authorizing the Application and
Acceptance of a Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant
(Referred to Finance Committee) (Mayor)
President Rheault — Public hearing is now open again. State your name and addr'ess for
the record if you would please. There's a button on there to turn it on. Thank you,
Andrew Loew — I'm Andrew Loew. I'm from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.
I live 'In West Springfield. The purpose of the hearing tonight-is.to have some public
discussion of the town's application for a Community Develp
,pment Block Funding. We
also, as your Agenda indicates, we're seeking the Coun'cll's 'vote to support the Grant
Application through passing the proposed resolution auihorizing:-.the application by the
Mayor's office, So I'll try to go quickly through this.;because I wa�,here last year in the
same capacity so I think you're all familiar with the program. I also met with the Finance
Sub-Committee about a week ago so I think many of you are up to speed P.P.this already
but for folks who may not be up to speed, 111'juiust give a,yery brief backgrouind on the
program itself. This is again the Community Deve"16pinenit Block Grant. It's funded by
the Federal Housing and Development Department f6rcommunities of Agawam's size.
It's administered by the MassachLisetts Departmci*."' of Housing & Community
Development. It is a competitive granf,'Pr9gram so what.. we're seeking here is the
Council's authorization so that the Mayor cawsign off on o.dr application to seek this
funding. There's no guarantee that the fundini.mill happen. The basics of the
he -ne
application — it's a region.al,.-.4pplication s6y re may kill be soi folks here from East
Longmeadow. We're.'p'roposifig. that Agawa�,n partner with East Longmeadow because
under this particu*lar"grant progriarn there are-actually bonuses that the state had been
regionalizing or has been,,qmpliasizing regliondli:�_ation for the last several years and to
make that goal,happen, the'y,,'an� aw' ardihg-qNt.ra points in the grant program to regionalize
so by town��`coi-hbihing, the'gfant is more'likely to happen and at the same time, the two
towns we're lookin'g`-,'a'*t'-a.re very,.simil.ar projects so we think it's a very good fit for
Agawaffi.Jo team with 'East Longm'e.adow. We're seeking about $900,000.00 in grant
funding.' '-,T..bat's gonna be: about- a 50/50 split between the two communities. The
appl i cat]on'is-Oue in the middle of December with a potential award date of June or July
of next year. "the, projects�.we're seeking, for the most part, are the same as what we
sought last year. --There.s�a regional housing rehabilitation loan prograrn, about 14 to 16
homes that'll be split. more or less evenly possibly with a few more units in Agawam,
regional housing authority improvernent projects, so for that one we'll be seeking funding
to do improvements at the Colonial Haven facility on Main Street as well as another
facility in East Longmeadow. We'll be seeking to do a Regional Americans with
Disabilities Act planning project so that'll look how the two towns can plan to try to
make their facilities and services more accessible for people with disabilities. One
project that's just in Agawam will be to design sorne sidewalk improvernents on
Springfield Street between Mill Street and Franklin Street and another project that's just
in East Longmeadow, that one will be to build an emergency generator at the Senior
Center in East Longmeadow. This process hasn't just sort of arrived here without any
support. We've.. with the assistance of the Mayor's Office, put together a Community
Development Advisory Committee which is chaired by Mark from the Planning Board.
We've had meetings basically since about Labor Day. They've helped us put together
the projects through the public involvement piece. We've had a Community
Development strategy meeting at the Planning Board where the Planning Board endorsed
the strategy that we're taking. We've had project-speclific public meetings and outreach
for the last several months. There were quite a few media articles about this which you
may have seen and finally we're here tonight requesting your resolution for the Mayor's
Office to make the application.
President Rheault — Thank you. Any questions from the CouncJI for Mr. Loew? You
handled it well. Anyone else who'd like tO Come Lip in favor to.-spe'ak? Yes, come to the
mic thank you.
Christopher Dunphy — Good evening. I'm Chr'istopher Dunphy representing the
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, 60 Congress:*Street, Springfield. I'd just like to
say we had sorne friends from East Longmeadow�'oin us this eveniiig'�q.provide some
. J
support for this proposed grant. One of the iridi-v'iduals had to leave, Carolyp-Brennan,
I'd like her name introduced into record as supp'q'fti`ng this grant, specifically she's the
Senior Center Director in East Longmeadow and t1i6y',re" proposing they'd like to get a
generator to provide back up energy. in cases of emerg ency at that Senior Center. So
Carolyn was here to voice her suppor'(.�'far that and we also have two other gentlemen
from East Longmeadow that would like'to- -saya,couple quick'wbrds. Thank you.
X,
President Rheault — Thank you. Anyone.else who w6uld-like to come up alid speak in
favor? They'll have an.oppqrt�uiity—
Christopher Dun-phy Mr. Dan Hellier, he was on our Community Development
Advisory Committee —
President:--Rhefiult-�_':Excuse 'me, We will provide an opportunity for them to just record
theirridrhe.
Christopf��r,:Dunphy —All:'riight. 'Dan Hellier, Community Develop-
President Rhea`u.1t.--No, after I left the opponents have an opportunity if there are any.
Christopher Dunphym-All right.
President Rheault Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition to it? If not,
anyone who would like to just in name only corrie forward in support of the project? You
can mention their names now if you'd like. If they want to corne up -
Christopher Dunphy — Again, the individuals joining us this evening are Dan Hellier,
he's the Community Development Advisory Committee Chairman and Mr. Robert
Adams, resident of East Longmeadow. Thank you.
President Rheault — Okay, thank you. Anyone who would like to be recorded in name
only against? If not, we711 close the public hearing and I do want to thank you for being
patient with us at this time of the evening. COUnCIIIS pleasure? Anyone want to speak?
No? All right. As the motion is in front of us as attached, if you are in favor of it, please
vote yes. I'm sorry?
Councilor Perry— Make a motion to move the question.
President Rheault —Moved by Councilor Perry. seconded by Councilor Rossi. Barbara,
please call the roli?
ROLL CALL — 10 YES, 0 NO, I ABSENT (Councilor Letellier)
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THF APPLICAT70NIAND ACCEPTANCE OF A
MASSA CIfUSETTS COMMUNETY DEVELOPMFNT BLOCK GRANT
(Sponsored By:Mayor ltichw4 A.Colien)
ell-CAS,the objective of the CDBG program is to support communities in their effort
to provide decent housing and suitable living envjrGwrLcnts,and exp3nd economic
opportunities:and
WHEREAS,the Iasi time the 7o%%m o rAgm%-arn received a Counmunity Development
Blod-Grant was 1983,and
WHEREAS.the proposed use offands received under the gTant could be expended to
address sidew alk and roadway improvements along the Spiingfield Streci carridor
thereby improving the pedestrian experience and(he roadway;
WHEREAS,the proposed Use Of funds received under the grant could be expended to
prepare an ADA-Compliani Self l7valuation&Transition Plan to identify imaiionj in
need Gfacccssibility improvements;and
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WHEREAS.the PrOPO5Cd funds received Linder the grant could be expended to LLJcrtak
a Housing Rehabilitation program to assist low and moderate income households,.4
gi
I-VIIIEREAS.the proposed=of fumds received under the gran:could he expended ?�;c
code improvements at Colonial Haven and Bmdy Village;and 1> 7.
WHEFEAS,it is in the best i.1crest ofthe Town ofAgawam to apply for and aecept
finids under the Community Developrocht Block G=r progmm. CD
NOW TMEREFORLE.the Agawarn Town Council hereby resolves;that the Mayor apply
for said grant and that he execute all documents necessary to secure the award of the
grant,
Br-rr FURTHFR RESOLVED.that if the Town nfAgawarn is awaided said grani i)iat it
accept (he Crant pursuant to M.G.L.44§51A and to expend funds pursuani to the Tozi
vfAgawwn FYJ2 Community Development Strategy and that the Mayorexecutc any
necessayy documents to that"d.
President Rheault —Ten yes., one absent, you have approved the resolution as attached.
Thank you, Mr. Loew.
FY2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDF 11 Program- PreliminaEY Budget 11-9-2011
Activity Description Agawam E. Longmeadow TOTAL
Housing Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation Loans/Grants #of Units Housing rehab,project delivery,relocation&misc.expenses
Agawam 9 211,500 0 211,500
East Longmeadow 7 0 164,500 164,500
Total Units 16 at approximately$23,500 per unit
Project Delivery 1 40,5001 31,5001 -72-'000
Total project cost&deliveryl 252,0001 196,0001 448,1000
Housing Authority Improvements
Agawam Safety and Security Program:Electrical&Windows* 38,000 0 38,000
East Longmeadow Safety and Security Program: Lights,Locks&Entry Ramp* 0 72,000 -72-,000
Project Delivery 3,040 5,760
Total project cost&delivery, 41,040, 77,760, -:--118,800
ADA Transition Plans Consultant hired, prepares ADA transition plans for both towns
Agawam& East Longmeadow 45,000 45jOOO
Project Delivery 3,600 3,600 9,000
Total project cost&delivery 48,600 48,600 97,2GO
Infrastructure Design Springfield Street sidewalks design project 57,500 0
Agawam Project Delivery 3,450 0 3,450
Total project cost&delivery 60,950 60,950
Public Facilities Purchase and install generator for Senior Center* 0 75,000
East Longmeadow Project Delivery 0 4,500 4,500
Total project cost&delivery 79,500 79,500
---I- ----F-
JGeneral Administration 45,000 45,0001 90,000]
Total Program Costsi 44ff7,5901 446,8601 894,4SOI
preliminary estimate only X. - 4
C'
FY2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDF 11 Program - Preliminant Budget 11-9-2011
Activity Description Agawam E. Longmeadow TOTAL
Housing Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation Loans/Grants #of Units Housing rehab,project delivery,relocation&misc.expenses
Agawam 9 211,500 0
East Longmeadow 7 0 164,500 �:�4464*W
Total Units 16 at approximately$23,500 per unit
Project Delivery 40,5001 31,500 .h,-!A*72�,000
Total project cost&delivery 252,ODOI 196,00011
Housing Authority Improvements
Agawam Safety and Security Program:Electrical&Windows* 38,000 0-,�4�-;V391,006
1 12,,
East Longmeadow Safety and Security Program: Lights, Locks&Entry Rarnp* 0 72,000 1" 1000
Project Delivery 3,040 5,760 09V'0'8�Y800
Total project cost&delivery, 41,040, 7 7,7 60, 18,'90 0
ADA Transition Plans Consultant hired,prepares ADA transition plans for both towns �M
Agawam&East Longmeadow 45,000 45,000 M—"90 00
1002'
Project Delivery 3,600 3,600 0",0001
Total project cost&delivery 48,600 48,600 tw-6-00-�-,M
0
Infrastructure Design Springfield Street sidewalks design project 57,500
Agawam Project Delivery 3,450 0 %*&3j'450
Total project cost&delivery 60,9501 '-��A,260;950
Public Facilities Purchase and install generator for Senior Center* 01 75,0001,�--�'�r- -t
East Longmeadow Project Delivery 01 4,500 A�-41500
. , 0
Total project cost&delivery 79,5001-:-�,�'.079,50ni
fGeneral Administration I 4S,0001 45,0001 1�4�-A,§k90;0MI
Total Program Costsl 447,5901 446,8601 8941,450
preliminary estimate only
FY2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDF 11 Program - Preliminary Budget 11-9-2011
Activity Description Agawam E. Longmeadow TOTAL
Housing Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation Loans/Grants #of Units Housing rehab, project delivery, relocation&misc.expenses
Agawam 9 211,500 0 211,500
East Longmeadow 7 0 164,500 164,500
Total Units 16 at approximately$23,500 per unit Project Delivery 40,5001 31,S00i' .72,.0001
Total project cost&delivery 1 252,0001 196,0001 448,0001
Housing Authority Improvements
Agawam Safety and Security Program:Electrical&Windows* 38,000 0 , 38,000
East Longmeadow Safety and Security Program: Lights, Locks&Entry Ramp* 0 72,000 72,000
Project Delivery 3,040 5,760 .,, 8,800
Total project cost&delivery, 41,040, 77,760,, 118,800,
ADA Transition Plans Consultant hired,prepares ADA transition plans for both towns
Agawam &East Longmeadow 45,000 45,000 .90,000
Project Delivery 3,600 3,600 .9,000
Total project cost&delivery 48,600 48,600 97,200
Infrastructure Design Springfield Street sidewalks design project 57,500 0
Agawam Project Delivery 3,450� 0 .3,4SO
Total project cost&deliverV 60,950, -1 60,950
Public Facilities Purchase and install generator for Senior Center* 01 75,0001 1
East Longmeadow Project Delivery 01 4,5001 . 4,500
Total project cost&delivery 1 79,5001 - "-. 11
JGeneral Administration 1 45,0001 45,0001 90,0001
Total Program Costsl 447,5901 446,8601 894,450]
preliminary estimate only
FY2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDF 11 Program - Prelimingy Budget 11-9-2011
Activity Description Agawam E. Longmeadow TOTAL
Housing Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation Loans/Grants #of Units Housing rehab,project delivery, relocation&misc.expenses
Agawam 9 211,500 0 -ft.--'i211-;500
East Longmeadow 7 0 164,500 .4-�;464,500
Total Units 16 at approximately$23,500 per unit
Project Delivery 1 40,5001 31,500 �ie4,&,,71,000
Total project cost&delivery 1 252,0001 196,000 --,'4481000
0100
Housing Authority Improvements
Agawam Safety and Security Program: Electrical&windows* 38,000 0
East Longmeadow Safety and Security Program: Lights, Locks&Entry Ramp* 0 72,000 �` V-','�',7?1��000
Project Delivery 3,040 5,760 '�,�A71800
Total project cost&delivery, 41,040, 77,7601,:�!,z��'1:6118,800
ADA Transition Pla n5 Consultant hired,prepares ADA transition plans for both towns
Agawam&East Longmeadow 45,000 45,000 4c;90;000
Project Delivery 3,600 3,600 9;000
Total project cost&delivery 48,600 48,600 .97,200
Infrastructure Design Springfield Street sidewalks design project 57,500 0 W-*1XV.-ij;-
Agawam Project Delivery 3,450 0
Total project cost&delivery 60,950 :"17'-"60,9501
Public Facilities Purchase and install generator for Senior Center* 01 75,0001_F. ;�-�-, I
East Longmeadow Project Delivery 0 4,5001.-��--z-L�4;5001
Total project cost&deliveryl 79,5001-'�i� -".�79,50nl
JGeneral Administration 1 45,0001 45,0001,-,,,-�-90,000
Total Program Costsi 447,5901 4461860[;z .894,-450
preliminary estimate only
FY2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDF 11 Program - Preliminary Budget 11-9-2011
Activity Description Agawam E. Longmeadow TOTAL
Housing Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation Loans/Grants #of Units Housing rehab,project delivery,relocation&misc.expenses
Agawam 9 211,500 0 M221TI450'0
East Longmeadow 7 0 164,500 PJ91—R500
Total Units 16 at approximately$23,500 per unit
Project Delivery 40,5001 31,500 %M7j2!000
Total project cost&delivery 252,0001 196,000 4MU4.8,b00J
Housing Authority Improvements ft*#0J*6"-
Agawam Safety and Security Program: Electrical&Windows* 38,000 0#M3$1000
East Longmeadow Safety and Security Program: Lights,Locks&Entry Ramp* 0 72,000 0aft
.Z2rOOO
Project Delivery 3,040 5,760%,MK$!900
Total project cost&delivery, 41,040, 77,760,
ADA Transition Plans Consultant hired,prepares ADA transition plans for both towns 4401010-e-
Agawam&East Longmeadow 45,000 45,000 OM9_7Q,000
Project Delivery 3,600 3,600 MJffA[9T,000
Total project cost&delivery 48,600 48,600 OWT77,00
Infrastructure Design Springfield Street sidewalks design project 57,500 0
Agawam Project Delivery 3,450 0 JM3Y450
Total project cost&delivery 60,950 u06b,,950
Public Facilities Purchase and install generator for Senior Center* 0 75,000 004010W-
East Longmeadow Project Delivery 0 4,500 WJW
,41500
Total project cost&delivery 79,5001P-V*111�00
(General Administration 1 45,0001 45,0001W-W507000
Total Program Costsl 447,5901 446,860 loww9a5sol
preliminary estimate only
LEGAL NOTICE
TOWNOFAGAWAM
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
November 21, 2011
7:00 PM Doering Middle School
68 Main Street, Agawam
FY 2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDBG Application
The Agawam City Council, in conjunction with the Town of East Longmeadow, will
conduct a Public Hearing on November 21, 2011 at 7:00 PM at the Doering Middle
School, 68 Main Street, Agawam regarding a resolution on the FY2012 Agawam & East
Longmeadow Community Assistance application to the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Program of the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community
Development. The two towns are considering applying jointly for$900,000 in grant
funds for the following projects:
• Housing Rehabilitation Program (Agawam and East Longmeadow)
• Housing Authority Improvements (Agawam and East Longmeadow)
• ADA Self-Eyaluation and Transition Plans (Agawam and East Longmeadow)
• Sidewalk Improvements (Springfield Street, Agawam)
• Emergency Power Generator(Senior Center, East Longmeadow)
If awarded, the Town of Agawam, through the Office of the Mayor, will be responsible
for the grant. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) will assist the Mayor's
office and will oversee grant administration and project implementation in both
communities. I
Any persons or organizations having questions or comments concerning the FY2012
application will have an opportunity to be heard. Written comments may be submitted to
the Agawam Planning & Community Development Department, 36 Main Street,
Agawam, MA 0 100 1, Attn: Debbie Dachos.
The Doering School is handicapped accessible. Persons who require special
accommodations for the public hearing should contact the town at least one week prior to
the hearing date at (413) 786-0400 ext. 283. For farther infori-nation, contact Andrew
Loew or Christopher Dunphy at PVPC at(413) 781-6045.
Richard A. Cohen, Mayor, Town of Agawam
TOWNOFAGAWAM
Public Hearing — Monday, November 15, 2010
7:00 PM Doering School
68 Main Street, Agawam
FY 2011 Town ofAgawam CDBG Application
The Agawam City Council will conduct a Public Hearing on November 15, 2010 at 7:00
PM at the Roberta Doering School, 68 Main Street. The public is encouraged to attend
this hearing to discuss the Town's FY2011 application to the Massachusetts Department
of Housing and Community Development for up to $1 million in Community
Development Block Grant funds, which is being assisted by the Pioneer Valley Planning
Commission (PVPC). All persons with questions or comments regarding the grant
application will have an opportunity to be heard. Those unable to attend may send
written comments to the Agawam Planning& Community Development Department, 36
Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001, Attn: Deborah Dachos.
The Town of Agawam is seeking public comment on potential grant-funded projects.
Projects currently being explored for a target area including much of north-central
Agawam include: infrastructure improvements along the Springfield Street corridor, a
housing rehabilitation loan program for eligible properties in the target area, and planning
for enhanced accessibility to public facilities for disabled residents. -
The Doering School is handicapped accessible. Persons who require special
accommodations for the public meeting should contact the Town at (413) 786-0400. For
further information, contact Andrew Loew at PVPC at(413) 781-6045 or
aloew@pvpc.org.
jecd 5
il C_
. FA
5 AGAWAM CITY CO.UNCIL , .
36 MAIN STREET
AGAWAM, MAS SAC14USETTS 0 100 1
LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL
PRESIDENT
Donald M Rheault
The Agawam City.Counci'I will hold a public hearing on Monday,
VICE PRESIDENT November 21, 2011 at 7:00 P.M. at the Roberta G. Doering School,
Robert F. Rossi 68 Main Street, Agawam, MA. The purpose of this'hearing will be to
COUNCILORS hear the Resolution Authorizingthe Application and Acceptance and
George Bilzas Expenditure of a Massachusetts Community Development Block
James P. Cicheld Grant, which is- being assisted by the Fioneer 'Valley Planning
Gina M. Letellier Commission. A copy of the proposed Resolution can be obtained from
Robert A. Magovern the Agawam City Clerk's Office between the hours of 8,30 A.M. and
Jill S, Messick . 4:30 P.M. in the Agawam City Hall, 36 Main Street, Agawam, MA.
Joseph Mineo For ftirther infonnation, contact Andrew Loew at PVPC at (41 '
Dennis J Perry 3) 781-
Jill P, Simpson 6045 or aioew@pvpc.org
John F Walsh
ADMINISTRATIVE
ASSISTANT
Barbara A. Bard BY ORDER OF: .
Donald M. Rheault co
City Council President
C)
TO BE ADVERTISED ON 11/3/11 k4*
TELEPHONE
(413) 786-0400 Ext, 233
FAX
(413).786-9927
EMAIL
bbard@agawam.ma us
Page I of I
barbara bard
From: Loew, Andrew [Aloew@PVPC.ORG)
Sent: Tuesday, October 04, 2011 5:18 PM
To: barbara bard
Cc: Deborah Dachos
Subject: RE:
H! Barbara,
I'm working with Debbie Dachos on a grant application this fail. As part of the application, we need to
conduct a formal hearing at the Council's November 21 meeting. The hearing should be called 'CDBG
Grant Hearing' or very similar. Can you please add us to the agenda? Is there any other information you
need?
Thanks for your help,
Andrew
Andrew Loew,AICP
Community Development&Brownfields
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
60 Congress Street
Springfield,MA 01104
Ph:(413)781 -6045 x337
Fx:(413)732-2593
aloew0poc.Ur
WWW.PvPC.0r-q
10/13/2011
LEGAL NOTICE
TOWN OF AGAWAM
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
November 21, 2011
-7:00 PM Doering Middle School
68 Main Street, Agawam
FY 2012 Agawam & East Longmeadow Regional CDBG Application
The Agawam City Council, in conjunction with the Town of East Longmeadow, will
conduct a Public Hearing on November 21, 2011 at 7.00 PM at the Doering Middle
School, 68 Main Street, Agawam regarding a resolution on the FY2012 Agawam & East
Longmeadow Community Assistance application to the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Program of the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community
Development. The two towns are considering applying jointly for$900,000 in grant
funds for the following projects:
Housing Rehabilitation Program (Agawam and East Longmeadow)
Housing Authority Improvements (Agawam and East Longmeadow)
ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plans (Agawam and East Longmeadow)
Sidewalk 1mprovements (Springfield Street, Agawam)
Emergency Power Generator(Senior Center, East Longmeadow)
If awarded, the Town of Agawam, through the Office of the Mayor, will be responsible
for the grant. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) will assist the Mayor's
office and will oversee grant administration and project implementation in both
communities.
Any persons or organizations having questions or comments concerning the FY2012
application will have an opportunity to be heard. Written comments may be submitted to
the Agawam Planning & Community Development Department, 36 Main Street,
Agawam, MA 01001, Attn: Debbie Dachos.
The Doering School is handicapped accessible. Persons who require special
accommodations for the public hearing should contact the town at least one week prior to
the hearing date at (413) 786-0400 ext. 283. For further information, contact Andrew
Loew or Christopher Dunphy at PVPC at(413) 781-6045.
Richard A. Cohen, Mayor, Town of Agawam
TR-201 I,
,�L4
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF A
MASSACHUSETTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
(Sponsored By: Mayor Richard A. Cohen)
WHEREAS, the objective of the CDBG program is to support communities in their effort
to provide decent housing and suitable living environments, and expand economic
opportunities; and
WHEREAS, the last time the Town of Agawam received a Community Development
Block Grant was 1983; and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of funds received under the grant could be expended to
address sidewalk and roadway improvements along the Springfield Stieet corridor
thereby improving the pedestrian experience and the roadway;
WHEREAS, the proposed use of funds received under the grant could be expended to
prepare an ADA-Compliant Self Evaluation & Transition Plan to identify locations in
need of accessibility improvements; and
WHEREAS,the proposed funds received under the grant could be expended to undertake
a Housing Rehabilitation program to assist low and moderate income households; and
WHEREAS, the proposed use of fiands received under the grant could be expended for
code improvements at Colonial Haven and Brady Village; and
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the Town of Agawam to apply for and accept
ftinds under the Community Development Block Grant program.
NOW THEREFORE, the Agawam Town Council hereby resolves; that the Mayor apply
for said grant and that he execute all documents necessary to secure the award of the
grant,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the Town of Agawam is awarded said grant that it
accept the grant pursuant to M.G.L. 44§ 53A and to expend funds pursuant to the Town
of Agawam FY12 Community Development Strategy and that the Mayor execute any
necessary documents to that end.
VW
1�14420 R831-0
Dated this day of 2011,
PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM TOWN COUNCIL
Donald M. Rhcault, President
AP OVED S TO FORM AND LEGALITY
�Iinccnt'F. Gi—oscia, Solicitor
Town of Agawam
Interoffice Memorandum
To: Mayor Richard A. Cohen
CC: Agawam City Council
From: Deborah S. Dachos, Director of Planning and Community Development
Date: 10/13/11
Subject- Council Resolution Regarding Community Development Block Grant
I Program
As you are aware, Agawam's Community Development Block Grant application was
unsuccessful last year. Agawam missed receiving funding by two (2) points. Given
how close we were to receiving funding, we have decided to submit an application
again this year. Our application will be very similar to last year's application with some
minor changes. Also, we propose to partner with East Longmeadow, thus ensuring us
of some bonus points since the application will be considered regional in nature.
The proposed projects to be funded through the 2012 CDBG Program will include:
• Design of sidewalk improvements along portions of Springfield Street-,
• Preparation of an ADA Compliant Self Evaluation and Transition Plan;
• Rehabilitation of income eligible housing located in the target area;
• Code improvements at Colonial Haven and/or Brady Village
The amount of funding will range from $400,000 to $500,000. Pioneer Valley Planning
Commission is in the process of pr�paring the grant application free of charge. The
application is due at the beginning of December.
Also a requirement of the application process, the attached Community Development
Strategy has been prepared and approved by the Planning Board at its October 6, 2011
meeting.
FRom THE DESK OF—
DEBORAH S.DACHOS
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
TOWN OF AGAWAM
36 MAIN ST
AGAWAM,MA 0100 1
Email address planning @ag awam.ma.us
413-786-0400 X 283
Fax:413-786-9927
Town of Agawam
FY2012 Community Development Strategy WDS)
This Community Development Strategy summarizes the Town of Agawam's recent strategic
planning efforts,provides highlights of the Town's relevant planning documents and identifies the
Town's primary development goals and priority projects. These goals and projects will shape the
Town's future community development efforts including the investment of local and Community
Development Block Grant funds. The plans and activities summarized below were developed with
significant local input and are reflective of the desires of the community and its residents.
Plan Summairies
PVPC Westcm Subregional Housing Plan_JZQ2ZLAMMded 2QQ3.2004)
The Western Subregional Housing Plan was created to guide the implementation of regional
measures to increase the affordable housing supply. Twelve towns in the regionjoined to use the
most recent census data, information from build-out studies,and a needs assessment questionnaire to
identify affordable housing needs and to inventory the resources presently available to meet them.
The towns agreed to support a regional approach to efforts to develop affordable housing at the local
level. The plan recommends specific actions for each town. For Agawam,these include obtaining
information or technical assistance in seeking funding for housing rehabilitation, public housing for
the elderly, regional cooperation, first time homebuyer assistance, and other means to encourage
affordable housing development.
CoMMum nt Plan(2004)
�!y Developme
The Town of Agawam received funding pursuant to E0418 from the Massachusetts Department of
Housing and Community Development and the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs(now
EOEEA) to research and develop a Community Development Plan. The plan addresses short-term
and long-term recommendations in the areas of housing,economic development, open space,
recreation and transportation. Some of the goals and objectives include the desire foTsafe and
friendly neighborhoods, educational initiatives that enforce community pride, enforcement of
cooperation amongst businesses,residents,and Town Hall communities,and the desire for sidewalks
and trails that link homes to schools,play lots,parks, and other recreation facilities.
Qpen Space and Re-greation Plan(2006)
In September 2006, the Town updated its 2001 comprehensive Open Space and Recreation Plan;
which spells out an extensive list of goals and objectives over a range of focus arm including growth
management,water resources, forest and vegetation, agriculture,recreational activities, and general
enviromnental protection. This Plan provides specific action steps that achieve each of these goals
through a five-year action agenda designed to move the process forward. The action plan was
updated and extended in 2009.
Natural Hazards Mitigadon Plan(2008)
The Town's hazard mitigation plan identifies floods,winter storms,hurricanes,tornadoes,wild fires,
earthquakes,drought and man-made threats(dam failure, industrial accidents) as risks to people and
property. With respect to community development,the plan's goals include assessment of and
improvement to drainage systems town-wide, preservation of undeveloped flood-pronc land to
prevent inappropriate development and to protect flood storage capacity, and burial of utility lines in
areas of repetitive outage.
Egonomic DevelgRMent Plan L201 0)
The Town of Agawam's Comprehensive Economic Development Plan can be summed up in the
following five broad goals:
a Expand the quantity and quality of employment opportunities through the development of a
balanced and diverse economy.
9 Expand and enhance shopping opportunities in appropriate areas.
e Maintain a skilled and educated workforce that will meet the needs of existing businesses and
industries in Agawam.
* Improve the quality of life in Agawam by upgrading and expanding community services,
facilities, and amenities.
* Continue to invest in infrastructure improvements to address the present and future needs of
commercial and industrial properties.
Each goal is provided with detailed implementation strategies. Some strategies include the continued
support of entrepreneurship and small business growth(through tax inceniives or assistance like a
fagade improvement program), emphasize the reuse of vacant or underutilized buildings,support
public and private partnerships to provide specific workforce training opportunities,ensure that new
development is designed to meet the existing community character, and provide prompt and
predictable permitting to prospective businesses.
More specifically,the plan calls for the creation of new neighborhood centers that combine retail,
civic and residential uses with pedestrian-oriented,medium-density design. Along the Walnut Street
Extension corridor,the plan envisions a"new town center"in an area that currently contains
brownfields.and other underutilized properties. In less-d6eloped parts of town,the plan recommends
exploring the possibility of mixed-use development through a planned-used development(PUD)by-
law. The plan designates several priority areas that are suitable for mixed-use,walking-friendly
development or redevelopment.
Sidewalk Improvement SWdy(2010
The Agawam Department of Public Works conducted a study of sidewalk conditions and related
infrastructure(crosswalks, curb cuts, etc... to determine priority areas for improvements. Results
indicate that the Springfield Street corridor is a high-need area,with aging and incomplete sidewalks
and crossings.
Community Develorlment Goals
In the next few years,the Town expects to address the challenges and opportunities defined in the
plans described above through a variety of community development activities and through a
combination of private, local,state,and federal funding:
Housft
9 Rehabilitate and improve existing Agawam Housing Authority facilities that serve low-to-
moderate income residents, veterans,the disabled and the elderly.
9 Create policies and bylaws that assist the implementation of the defined housing strategies
such as inclusionary,mixed-use and incentive zoning and accessory apartment ordinances.
9 Rehabilitate existing housing to preserve neighborhoods,historic structure and affordability.
2
Create alternative housing choices and increase housing diversity to meet the economic needs
of all Agawam residents within the Town.
Economic Development
* Emphasize the reuse of vacant or underutilized building for new commercial and industrial
development
0 Continue to support entrepreneurship and small business growth through various means,
possibly including tax incentives and fa�ade improvement.
* Ensure that new commercial and industrial development is designed to be attractive, well
plarmed and does not adversely impact Agawam's community character.
0 pen S
Race and Recreap�Qn
* Create an open space system that provides benefits throughout the Town for all age groups
and through all four season of the year.
* Continue to address and update an ADA Self-Evaluation that was previously undertaken by
the Town of Agawam to reflect the accessibility and use of recreation and open space land to
those with disabilities.
* Preserve natural resources,habitat systems and farmland by encouraging the donation of land,
pursue the purchasing of land and conduct education community outreach about land
management techniques.
Land Use
* Continue to modify, as necessary and appropriate, zoning and land development bylaws so as
to preserve and protect the character of the Town and still allow for constructive and
productive growth consistent with the Town's plans and policies.
e Encourage new,pedestrian-friendly village centers in both redevelopment and new
development areas.
Historic and Cultural Resj2yrXes
e Continue to support Town cultural and historic activities.
e Continue to seek and support appropriate properties for National ffistoric Site Registry listing.
OrgWa
Agn and TMMa
Qrtation
* Provide a safe, efficient, dependable transportation system for the movement of people and
goods with a focus on pedestrian friendly design and expanded transit system.
e Continue to'Promote bicycle connections and bike lanes to be included in all roadway design
projects throughout the Town.
@ Continue to improve traffic operations, safety and planning through traffic signal studies,the
development of corridor plans, signage improvements and implement taffic calming
measures.
Conduct and implement Corridor Improvement Plans to improve safety and reduce congestion
for sections of Agawam to include Springfield Street and Main Street.
ServicgL gUtfactlitles
Continue planning for and implementing accessibility measures for the disabled at public
facilities
3
Continue reviewing existing surface(roads, sidewalks)and subsurface (water, sewer,
drainage)infrastructure and prioritizing improvements
Natural Resources
* Develop various educational programs and materials for landowners.
e Work with supporting organizations to develop wildlife management plans and other issues.
9 Work with state and federal agencies, local landscapers and builder to control invasive
species.
Consistency with the Commonwealth's Sustainable Development Principles
The Town of Agawam's Community Development Strategy is,to varying degrees, consistent with
each of the Commonwealth's Sustainable Development Principles:
1. Concentrate Development and Mix Uses—Many of Agawam's planning efforts are directed to
redeveloping existing mixed-use neighborhoods and their infrastructure,utilities,and buildings, As
noted in the Economic Development Plan, recommendations include creating a housing overlay
district in appropriate village center areas, in order to promote alternative housing choices.
2. Advance Eguity—Many of the Town's strategic and community planning efforts have involved
exhaustive community support. This is especially evident through the extensive public outreach
efforts by the designated committees and the widely distributed surveys in 2006 and 2009 for both
the Open Space and Recreation Plan and its amended community action plan,respectively. Plans to
enhance housing affordability and provide access to rehabilitation funds for low and moderate
income households also advance equity by increasing housing choice for eligible families.
3. Make Effici=Decisions—One of the main goals in the Economic Development Plan is to
facilitate infrastructure improvement to address present and future needs by providing prompt and
predictable permitting for perspective businesses. The Town realizes the importance of smart growth
and development and has not imposed onerous and unnecessary development or permitting
requirements on such projects.
4. RMtect Land and Ecoaystern—The Town's Open Space and Recreation Plan supports overaffl
preservation and conservation practices that promotes acquisition of land with an intent to restore
environmentally sensitive areas and also with an intent to increase the quantity,quality and
accessibility of open spaces and recreational areas. The Hazard Mitigation Plan supports acquisition
of high-risk properties to protect them from inappropriate development.
S. Use NAtural ResoMg Wisel —The Town works frequently with regional, state and federal
agencies to protect sensitive and important land and water natural resources within the conununity.
Planning efforts by the Town identify strategies that both use, and monitor, natural resources wisely.
Agawam recently established an energy commission to reduce energy costs for Town-owned
facilities through conservation and efficiency, and to engage in long-term energy planning.
6. Expand Housing Opportunities—The Town's Community Development Plan details short-term
and long-tem recommendations on how to provide homes that meet the needs of people of all
abilities, income levels,and household types. This includes the potential to build affordable housing
on Town-owned land, researching appropriations for housing rehabilitation and amending and
adopting zoning bylaws and ordinances that promote the construction of diverse housing options.
4
7. Provide Transvortation Choice—The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority provides-bus service to the
Town, connecting passengers to other communities in the area through connections in West
Springfield and Springfield. Limited bus transit services also provide connections to the Agawam
Regional Industrial Park,the Pheasant Hill Apartments and the Heritage Nursing Home.
8. Increase Job and Business OpRortunities—As noted,the Economic Development Plan focuses on
goals and strategies that attract businesses and jobs to priority locations where there is existing
infiwtructure and multi-mode transportation. Strategies also provided in the Plan include the
adoption of regulations and policies, such as green bifilding incentives,to encourage energy
efficiency and promote sustainable development.
9. Promote-Clean Energy—In September of 2009, Agawam established an energy commission to
reduce energy costs for Town-owned facilities through conservation and efficiency,and to engage in
long-term energy planning.
10.Plan&eeignally—The Town has been an active participant in numerous regional or subregional
planning efforts including the Western Pioneer Valley Subregional Housing Plan. Agawam has
worked closely with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and the regional MPO to address
transportation issues.The Town also collaborates fi-equently with the regional bus service provider,
the Pioneer VaJley Transit Authority.
Communft DeveloRment Target Area
Composed almost entirely of five contiguous US Census block groups within three tracts(8132.06,
8132-07 and 8 132.03),the target area occupies the north-central portion of town. The area includes
Agawam's most densely-built neighborhoods,North and West Agawam,as well as three of the
town's older mixed-use corridors. Inclusive of properties on both sides of its boundary roadways,the
target area is bounded on the north by the Westfield River,on the northeast arid east by Main Stree�
on the south by Wright Street, Birch Hill Road,Mill Street and Elm/Silver Street,and on the west by
James Street and a line 150 yards west of Colemore Street that connects Springfield Street(at Mill
Street)to North Street This area contains a high concentration of the town's low-and moderate-
income (LNU)population and older housing units. According to FYI I HUD statistics(the most
recent available),the target area's population is 46.0%LMI,with one block group reaching as high as
56.3%. Outside the target area,about 30.7% of Agawam residents qualify as LNE, More than 50%of
homes in the target area were built in 1959 or before, as compared to 39%for the town as a whole.
Frioritintion of Prolects
Based on the planning programs described above, the following items represent priorities(in no
particular order) for the Town's near-term future community development efforts:
Fmnomic Development
0 Encourage and support expansion of existing retail and commercial businesses in priority
areas (including Walnut Street Extension)through infrastructure investments and/or direct
support program such as fh�ade improvement
* Continue to conduct studies to identify infrastructure needs, and to seek or allocate sufficient
funds to make improvements needed to support economic development
5
J
Continue to promote community preservation through implementation of appropriate design
controls for existing and future development, in order to prevent development that goes
against Agawam's community character
Promote the creation of pedestrian-friendly mixed-use development(and redevelopment) in
designated priority areas (including the Walnut Street Extension,Main Street and Springfield
Street)through appropriate infrastructure investments and land use controls
e Promote the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites at key locations,including the
former Games& Lanes property on Walnut Street Extension,by obtaining grant funding and
accessing other state and federal incentive programs
Circulation and Transportafion
* Promote pedestrian friendly roadways along key mixed-use corridors(such as Springfield
Street,Maple Street, Main Street,and Suffield Street)by adding crossings, eliminating
discontinuities in the sidewalk network, and reducing unnecessary curb cuts
* Continue to review existing vehicular traffic signals to ensure operation, optimal signal timing
and phasing, and upgrade equipment if necessary
a Continue to upgrade existing sidewalk ramps to be ADA compliant
9 Continue to review existing sidewalk and bicycle network conditions
Open Space Lind Recreation
• Continue efforts to seek funding to develop a re&eational and cultural center that will benefit
of all of the Town's residents
• Evaluate and determine compliance with ADA and other appropriate laws governing
accessibility of recreational facilities(complete an ADA Plan)
• Continue to seek funding for publicly-owned recreational facilities that are in need of repairs
and modernization,through both grant's and local Community Preservation Act funds
• Continue to seek ftinding for new open and recreational spare as specified in existing plans
Facilities and Services
• Evaluate and determine compliance with ADA and other appropriate laws governing
accessibility of public facilities, including municipal buildings and public schools (complete
an ADA Plan)
• Continue to seek flinding for publicly-owned facilities that are in need of repairs and
modernization
• Continue to evaluate public infrastructure and seek fitriding to make needed improvements
Ho
• Implernent planning and programs to support the provision of housing across a broad range of
incomes, age groups and demographics—programs should include housing rehabilitation
(including septic system repair), and/or construction or conversion of designated affordable
units for low and moderate income persons
• Maintain and improve existing low-to moderate-income,veteran, elderly, and disabled
housing stock under the control of the Agawam Housing Authority
• Coordinate future housing rehabilitation efforts with arty related funds made available through
the local Community Preservation Act(CPA)
6
Reviewed, discussed and recommended for Planning Boaid approval by the Agawam Community
Development Advisory Committee at Its October 3,2011 public meeting.
By:
Name and Title(print) Signatu
Discussed and approved on OctoberA,2011 by the Agawam Planning Board at its public meeting.
By:
YA)
Name and Title(print) Signature