Fiscal Note
The addition of a new staff person to address issues relating to Housing policies is included in the proposed 2012 operating budget of the CDA Redevelopment Agency. The estimated cost of the position is $85,500 ($60,000 in salary expense; $25,500 for benefits). The position is supported with CDA-related revenues; there is no net effect on the levy.
It is unclear whether an assessment of affordable and accessible housing needs can be completed utilizing existing staff resources, or whether a consultant may be required to undertake a study. A comprehensive study performed by a consultant may cost in the range of $50,000 to $150,000, depending on the scope of the study. Such funding is not currently included in the City budget.
Title
That housing be recognized as a human right, and that the City of Madison will work with Dane County, surrounding municipalities, and community partners to develop a Housing Plan and address housing issues in the region.
Body
WHEREAS, in 2009 in Dane County, 2,413 individuals in families were turned away from shelter, 92% of those were individuals with families, and 94% of turned-away families were rejected due to lack of shelter space or lack of funds to pay for motel vouchers; and
WHEREAS, these resource limitations mean families with children can only stay in shelter up to 90 days and have a 180-day lifetime limit; and
WHEREAS, in 2009, 29% of families and 30% of single women reported “the threat or fear of violence” as the reason they were seeking shelter; and
WHEREAS, in 2008, 776 children attending schools in Madison were homeless; and
WHEREAS, homelessness impacts a disproportionate number of people of color in Dane County, with 71% in shelter identifying as non-white, 83% of families, 64% of single women, 54% of single men and 48% of unaccompanied youth identified as non-white, and African Americans make up the largest minority group; and
WHEREAS, in the U.S., 20%-40% of homeless youth identify as l...
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