Community Development Committee

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2025 The Community Development Committee will conduct a meeting on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at City Hall (Mayor's Conference Room), 1737 Main Street, Second Floor, Columbia, SC 29201. Members of the public may view the meeting online at www.columbiasc.gov. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (803)545-3045 or cityclerk@columbiasc.gov if you have questions regarding this meeting. The Honorable Tina N. Herbert, District I The Honorable William Brennan, District III ▪ The Honorable Tyler D. Bailey, At-Large CALL TO ORDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. September 23, 2025 Community Development Committee Meeting Minutes COMMITTEE DISCUSSION 2. Mobile Market Update - Ms. Ayesha Driggers, Director / Office of Business Opportunities 3. Grocery Store Rebate Update - Ms. Ayesha Driggers, Director / Office of Business Opportunities 4. Discussion of Design and Materials Used in Housing Developments - Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director / Community Development and Mr. Harrison C. Joseph, Executive Director / TN Development Corporation ADJOURNMENT Page 1 of 1  1 MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025 DEPARTMENT: City Clerk FROM: Erika Hammond, City Clerk SUBJECT: September 23, 2025 Community Development Committee Meeting Minutes FUNDING SOURCE & ORIGINAL BUDGET: ATTACHMENTS: • #a: CD_MN_09232025 (DOCX) Updated: 10/16/2025 2:48 PM Page 1 Packet Pg. 2  1.a COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 CALL TO ORDER The Community Development Committee conducted a meeting on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at City Hall (Mayor’s Conference Room), 1737 Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina 229201. The Honorable Tina N. Herbert, Chair called the meeting to order at 11:01 a.m. and the following members were present: Attendee Name Title Status Tina N. Herbert Chair Present Will Brennan Member Present Tyler D. Bailey Member Present APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. June 3, 2025 and August 19, 2025 Community Development Committee Meeting Minutes – Approved Upon a motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mr. Brennan, the Committee voted unanimously to approve the June 3, 2025 and August 19, 2025 Community Development Committee Meeting Minutes. COMMITTEE DISCUSSION 2. Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Fiscal Year 2024-2025- Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director of Community Development – Received as information Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director of Community Development presented the department’s annual HUD (Department of Urban Housing and Development) report for the final year of the 2024–2025 Consolidated Plan. She reported receiving over $3 million in CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) funds, $700,000 in HOME (Investment Partnership Program funds, and $1.8 million in HOPWA (Housing Opportunity For Persons with Aids) funds, along with $18.5 million in congressional mitigation grants supporting the Olympia Fire Station and canal head gate projects. The department leveraged $5.8 million in federal funds to generate $11.9 million in additional investment for housing, economic development, and community services. Programs such as Love Your Block, neighborhood sweeps, and housing loans benefited hundreds of residents and 878 citizens received utility assistance through the Customer Assistance Program (CAP) program. She noted the disaster recovery program has been closed out and the annual report will be submitted to HUD by September 29, 2025. Page 1 of 3 Packet Pg. 3  1.a COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 There was discussion about public notice requirements; funding for the Olympia Fire Station and use of capital improvement dollars; eligibility and use of HOME American Rescue Plan ACT funds for homelessness prevention; and park restroom upgrades. Upon a motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mr. Brennan, the Committee voted unanimously to approve the submission of the CAPER report. There was consensus of the committee to present the report to City Council at a Work Session. 3. Update on City-owned, Vacant Residential Lots - Mr. Jeff Palen, Assistant City Manager/Chief Financial Officer and Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director of Community Development – Received as information. Mr. Jeff Palen, Assistant City Manager/Chief Financial Officer provided an update on city-owned residential properties and development activity. A total of 68 residential lots are being tracked through the GIS Department, with maps showing properties across areas such as Five Points, North Main, and Two Notch Road. Several parcels are being used through the City’s housing programs in partnership with the TN Development Corporation. There are nine homes nearing completion as part of phase one and plans for additional lots in phase two. There was discussion about whether any listed parcels were located outside city limits; the status of Ridgewood properties and their ownership history; adding TN Development’s phase-one lots to future reports; tracking property activation and development progress through the GIS system; and creating a five-year real estate strategy to guide the use of vacant residential parcels. 4. Establishing a Process to Support State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Projects - Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director of Community Development – Received as information. Mr. Jeff Palen, Assistant City Manager/Chief Financial Officer provided an overview of the City’s process for reviewing and supporting affordable and workforce housing developments seeking municipal assistance or letters of support. Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director of Community Development explained how developers request City backing for State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit applications and other funding sources. Page 2 of 3 Packet Pg. 4  1.a COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 There was discussion about creating a clear review process for housing development requests; ensuring City Council’s awareness before letters of support are issued; coordinating with state housing deadlines; involving neighborhood associations; addressing low income housing on Bull Street; integrating the process with the loan committee; and setting a funding threshold for Committee notification. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 12:08 p.m. Respectfully submitted: Erika D. Moore Hammond, MMC, CPM City Clerk Page 3 of 3 Packet Pg. 5  2 MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025 DEPARTMENT: City Clerk FROM: Erika Hammond, City Clerk SUBJECT: Mobile Market Update - Ms. Ayesha Driggers, Director / Office of Business Opportunities FUNDING SOURCE & ORIGINAL BUDGET: Updated: 10/16/2025 3:21 PM Page 1 Packet Pg. 6  3 MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025 DEPARTMENT: City Clerk FROM: Erika Hammond, City Clerk SUBJECT: Grocery Store Rebate Update - Ms. Ayesha Driggers, Director / Office of Business Opportunities FUNDING SOURCE & ORIGINAL BUDGET: Updated: 10/16/2025 3:22 PM Page 1 Packet Pg. 7  4 MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025 DEPARTMENT: City Clerk FROM: Erika Hammond, City Clerk SUBJECT: Discussion of Design and Materials Used in Housing Developments - Ms. Felicia Kilgore, Director / Community Development and Mr. Harrison C. Joseph, Executive Director / TNDC FUNDING SOURCE & ORIGINAL BUDGET: ATTACHMENTS: • #a: Housing Standard Guide for Community Development (PPTX) • #a: Housing Standard Guide for Community Development (PPTX) • #c: City of Columbia - HUD Cost Reasonableness Guide (PDF) • #c: City of Columbia - HUD Cost Reasonableness Guide (PDF) Updated: 10/17/2025 3:50 PM Page 1 Packet Pg. 8  4.a Housing Standard Guide The City of Columbia Housing Division “Housing Standards Guide” City of Columbia Community Development Department Felicia Kilgore, Director 1401 Main St, 4th Floor Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: (803) 545-3766 Packet Pg. 9  4.a Housing Standard Guide This information is intended for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs), sub-recipients, developers, contractors, homeowners and any other agents who are receiving HUD federal funds invested in their property. It aims to provide a clearer understanding of the guidelines that must be followed to secure HOME funding from the City of Columbia Community Development Department (City). The document outlines the minimum construction and rehabilitation requirements for HOME-funded programs in the City. Please note that certain non-essential items may not qualify for funding under this program. The City reserves the right to determine which items are considered non-essential and may deny funding for them. Packet Pg. 10  4.a Housing Standard Guide The purpose of the HOME Housing Standard Guidelines is to establish uniform property standards for all housing units assisted under the HOME Program. These guidelines ensure that funded properties meet quality, safety, and long-term sustainability requirements as defined by HUD and local codes. Packet Pg. 11  4.a Housing Standard Guide All construction activities must follow local, state, and federal laws and regulations, including zoning rules. Federal requirements include: • Property standards in 24 CFR Part 92 • Lead-based paint regulations in 24 CFR Part 35 and 40 CFR Part 745 • Accessibility standards in 24 CFR Part 8 and 28 CFR Parts 35 & 36, when applicable • International Residential Code (IRC) or International Building Code (IBC) – Where applicable HOME-funded projects must meet the Uniform Physical Condition Standards (UPCS) as stated in 24 CFR 5.705. Housing projects with more than four rental units must install broadband infrastructure per 24 CFR 5.100 unless the City grants an exception under §92.508(a)(3)(iv). Packet Pg. 12  4.a Housing Standard Guide Core Principle — Long-Term Affordability and Quality HUD’s central goal for affordable homeownership housing is to ensure that low-income families can purchase safe, decent, and sustainable homes that will remain affordable for the long term. This means: Durable construction and quality materials to minimize maintenance costs. Energy-efficient design to reduce utility expenses for the homeowner. Compliance with affordability periods and resale/recapture provisions. General Housing Quality Standards all HOME assist housing units: • Be decent, safe, sanitary and in good repair • Provide adequate heating, plumbing, and electrical systems in working order. • Have no evidence of structural failure, roof leaks, or foundation issues. • Be free from health and safety hazards, including mold, asbestos, or lead-based paint. • Meet local occupancy and zoning requirements. Packet Pg. 13  4.a Housing Standard Guide Rehabilitation Standards For rehabilitation projects, the participating jurisdiction (PJ) must: • Establish written rehabilitation standards describing materials, methods, and performance requirements for all major systems (roofing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, foundation, etc.). • Ensure that all deficiencies are corrected before project completion. • Require energy efficiency improvements consistent with HUD or local energy codes. • Confirm that all work is performed by licensed and insured contractors. • Maintain work write-ups, cost estimates, and final inspections in the project file. New Construction Standards All newly constructed housing assisted with HOME funds must: • Meet state and local building codes and HUD’s Model Energy Code or equivalent. • Include modern and durable construction materials, energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and effective insulation. • Be designed for sustainability and long-term affordability. • Comply with Accessibility Standards under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Fair Housing Act Design and Construction Requirements, and ADA where applicable. Packet Pg. 14  4.a Housing Standard Guide Energy Efficiency and Sustainability HOME-assisted properties should: •Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® standards or the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). •Incorporate water-saving fixtures and appliances. •Use low-VOC paints, sealants, and flooring materials. •Encourage solar or green infrastructure where feasible. Lead-Based Paint and Environmental Review • Units built before 1978 must comply with Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act and 24 CFR Part 35. • Environmental reviews must be conducted per 24 CFR Part 58 prior to commitment of HOME funds. • No project may proceed until HUD’s environmental clearance is complete. Packet Pg. 15  4.a Housing Standard Guide HUD does not support or reimburse the use of luxury materials or finishes in the construction or rehabilitation of affordable housing for homeownership when funded with HUD programs such as HOME, CDBG, or HOME-ARP. HUD’s guidance and regulations require cost reasonableness and appropriate quality, not luxury or premium-grade products. HUD’s Expectation: “Quality, Not Luxury” HUD expects materials to be: • Durable and energy-efficient (for long-term affordability). • Low-maintenance (to reduce homeowner cost burden). • Consistent with neighborhood standards (not excessive compared to surrounding housing). Examples of acceptable materials: • Solid-surface or laminate countertops (not quartz or granite) • Mid-grade cabinetry (not custom-built)Energy Star-rated standard appliances (not premium or professional series) • Vinyl plank or tile flooring (not hardwood or marble) HUD encourages “value engineering” — selecting materials that maximize durability and energy efficiency without elevating the home above affordable market norms. Packet Pg. 16  4.a Questions? FELICIA KILGORE, DIRECTOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT 1401 MAIN STREET, 4TH FLOOR COLUMBIA, SC 29201 PHONE: 803.545.3373 COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT@COLUMBIASC.GOV Packet Pg. 17  4.c City of Columbia – Community Development Department HUD Cost Reasonableness Guide For Affordable Housing Development (HOME, CDBG, HOME-ARP Programs) Purpose: To ensure that all construction and rehabilitation costs charged to HUD-funded housing projects are reasonable, necessary, and consistent with the intent to provide affordable, durable, and sustainable housing—not luxury or excessive upgrades. HUD Core Principle “All costs must be necessary and reasonable for the proper and efficient performance and administration of the federal award.” — 2 CFR §200.404 & 24 CFR §92.251 HUD defines reasonable costs as those that: • Reflect what a prudent person would pay in the local market. • Are consistent with modest housing in the same community. • Support long-term affordability and energy efficiency. • Avoid unnecessary luxury or excessive expenditures. ✅ Allowed / Recommended Materials & Features Category Allowed / Recommended HUD Rationale Affordable, durable, and easy to Countertops Laminate, solid-surface (Formica, Corian) maintain Factory-built stock or semi-custom Cabinetry Cost-effective and repairable cabinets Vinyl plank, sheet vinyl, tile, standard Flooring Long-lasting, easy to clean carpet Standard Energy Star refrigerator, stove, Appliances Energy efficient, modest cost dishwasher Windows Double-pane vinyl, Low-E glass Meets energy efficiency standards Fixtures Mid-grade plumbing and lighting fixtures Affordable and functional Roofing Architectural shingles, standard asphalt Cost-effective, long lifespan Exterior Vinyl, fiber cement siding Low maintenance, durable Finishes Supports affordability through HVAC/Systems Energy-efficient systems (SEER ≥14) lower utilities Packet Pg. 18  4.c ❌ Not Allowed / Not Recommended (Luxury or Excessive) Category Luxury / Disallowed Examples HUD Concern Countertops Granite, quartz, marble Inflates cost; not essential Exceeds modest housing Cabinetry Custom hardwood cabinetry standard Flooring Hardwood, travertine, imported tile High cost, high maintenance Professional-grade (Viking, Sub-Zero, Not reasonable for affordable Appliances Bosch) housing Fixtures Designer plumbing or light fixtures Aesthetic luxury, not necessity Premium materials, high Roofing Metal, slate, tile roofs replacement cost Increases cost beyond Exterior Finishes Brick on all elevations affordability range Technology / Smart Smart home systems, luxury Non-essential upgrades Features security, in-wall sound ⚙ Key Cost Controls • Value Engineer: Choose durable but modest materials that ensure longevity. • Compare Local Standards: Align with typical finishes of new affordable homes in the same market. • Document Cost Reasonableness: Maintain bids, market comparisons, and justification for materials chosen. • Energy Efficiency Emphasis: Focus on lowering long-term operating costs for homeowners, not luxury appeal. 🏗🏗 HUD’s Expectation HUD expects affordable housing construction to: • Reflect quality and pride, not luxury. • Promote sustainability and durability. • Maximize the use of federal funds to serve more families. Key Reminder: “Build homes people are proud to live in—without pricing out the family.” Packet Pg. 19