The Community Development Division is requesting approval to accept donations from the following organizations to sponsor the 2012 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice:
• Housing Authority of Billings - $10,000
• HRDC District 7 - $5,000, including assistance with survey mailing
• Billings Association of Realtors - $1,000, an additional $1,000 is pending
• First Interstate Bank - $1,000

Alternatives analyzed include either accepting the donations or not accepting the donations. If unable to accept the donations, the City of Billings will become non-compliant with HUD regulations and will not be able to receive federal grant funding, such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership program.

As a recipient of federal funds, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires the City to complete this study every five years to serve as the basis for fair housing planning for the next five years.

The City has reserved approximately $15,000 to support the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. This funding has been reserved in advance through CDBG Administration costs. The donations would greatly assist in meeting this obligation to receive federal funds and will enhance the quality of the study performed to identify barriers to fair housing choice in Billings.

Staff recommends the City Council accept identified donations to support the 2012 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice.