Council ponders quality of home loan program
The April 7, 2008 Lakewood City Council meeting lasted 55 minutes. 9 people and 51 empty chairs were in attendance. Council had the third and final reading of a number of bond and finance-related ordinances. They also approved the liquor license applications for Sapells and Europe Mart.
Mayor Edward FitzGerald asked Council to approve a health services agreement with the county for nearly $204,000. Dottie Buckon, Director of Human Services, said there was some urgency to access the funds because she lost her last nurse on Friday. Council approved the request unanimously.
Director of Finance Jennifer Pae asked Council to suspend longevity payments to non-collective bargaining city employees due to current fiscal challenges. Council approved the request unanimously. It was not made clear how much money it will save the city.
Director of Planning and Development Nathan Kelly asked council to consider a resolution to renew Lakewood’s involvement with the county and HUD and continue funding the HOME Program. Councilperson Thomas Bullock wondered if the income requirements to participate in the program were set too low. Bullock’s concern was that families are able to buy a home which they can not afford to maintain. Kelly said that the income levels were federally mandated, and Lakewood had no say in the matter.
Councilperson Kevin Butler asked if there was an oversight function to the program to determine how many families maintained ownership for the required time period. Kelly said ownership maintenance was at about 98%. Kelly mentioned the fund had a balance because not enough families were participating. He said he would provide Council with a report outlining the activities and status of the HOME Program.
Acting Public Works Director Howard Strong asked Council to approve an emergency ordinance to accept a $3,390 grant from the county for a recycling awareness program aimed at middle schools. Council approved it unanimously.
Clifton apartment dweller Edward McCartney used the Public Comment period to compliment council for their acts of humility and candidness.