Pasco staff reviews Tri-Cities HOME Consortium renewal; Pasco’s annual allocation ~ $165,000

Deputy Director Craig Raymond reviewed a proposed renewal of the interlocal cooperative agreement that governs the Tri-Cities HOME Consortium (Pasco, Richland and Kennewick). Raymond explained HOME is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program that provides grants to support affordable housing activities such as down-payment assistance, rehabilitation, and CHDO (Community Housing Development Organization) activities. Raymond said the consortium structure maximizes the federal allocation to member cities while sharing administrative duties and that Richland will remain the lead agency under the proposed agreement. He told council Pasco’s typical allocation is about $165,000 per year (roughly $500,000 across three years) but that federal formula and congressional appropriations can change year to year. Council members asked about typical uses of the funds; staff said prior uses include down-payment assistance, home rehabilitation (windows, sewer/water line work) and that about 15% is set aside for CHDO activity (staff identified Habitat for Humanity as the current CHDO recipient); Richland as lead receives a 10% administrative set-aside. Raymond said the draft agreement incorporates HUD-driven language and added transparency and clarifications; staff will return for a final action item for council approval.