Sacramento, California. A North Highlands couple and their young daughter have received the keys to their brand new home in Oak Park that was built by James Hanks Construction of Walnut Creek under the Vacant Lot Development Program offered by the Sacramento Housing Oak Park residence built under the Vacant Lot program and Redevelopment Agency (www.shra.org).

The goal of the program is to fill vacant lots with new single-family homes that are restricted with affordability covenants that will infuse these neighborhoods with new life and vitality. SHRA Oak Park Development Services Coordinator Jamie McLeod says empty lots can have a debilitating impact on a neighborhood and the quality of life for the people who live there.

"In Oak Park there are approximately 350 vacant lots," McLeod explained to a KXTV reporter. "You get trash on there, you get people dumping and what we're doing is taking that blighting aspect out of the neighborhood and replacing it with a new home."

"We develop pockets of owner-occupied homes to improve a troubled community," says Barbara Fields of KES Management Company, a partner with Hanks Construction.

The City Council and the Board of Supervisors approved the Agency's Pilot Vacant Lot Development Program in July and August 2002 for the redevelopment areas in North Sacramento, Oak Park and Walnut Grove. All three of these areas have vacant lots in their residential neighborhoods that affect the perception and values of the existing homes surrounding these parcels, and create blighted conditions in the neighborhoods.

Under the Pilot Vacant Lot Development Program, qualified developers must fund the predevelopment, lot acquisition, construction, and sale of each home without any SHRA development financing. Upon completion and sale of the home to an income-qualified owner-occupant at an affordable price, the developer will be paid for the recording of the affordability covenants based on the bedroom count of the home built. For a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, the developer receives a fee of $7,500; for a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, the fee is $20,000; and for a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, the fee is $25,000.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority created in 1973 by the City and County of Sacramento to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2003 budget of $166 million and approximately 325 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public and also administers about 11,000 rental assistance vouchers per month.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, 916. 440.1355 or 916.919.3090 cell
Barbara Frick, James Hanks Construction, 925.408.4702

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December 11, 2003

SACRAMENTO DEVELOPER TRANSFORMS BLIGHTED MOTEL INTO ATTRACTIVE APARTMENTS FOR LOW INCOME SENIORS

Ladi Senior Apartments renovated with $1.7 million in Redevelopment Agency financing

Sacramento, California. Sacramento developer Cyrus Youssefi of CFY Development, Inc., had all the right ingredients to change the former Dodge City Inn at 2300 Auburn Boulevard from a crime-infested motel into a clean, secure and attractive apartment complex for low income seniors which he renamed the Ladi Senior Apartments.

"The recipe for successful affordable housing is to have a local agency that is proactive, a visionary local government, and a willing financial institution," said Youssefi. "And then," he added with a laugh, "you have to have a rich partner. Youssefi said, "This project was truly blessed to have all those elements together that made the project possible."

Neighbors, code inspectors and law enforcement fought a losing battle against crime, drugs and prostitution for years at the Dodge City Inn. The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (www.shra.org) partnered with Youssefi to provide $1.7 million in financing to renovate the complex. "Those of us from the public sector have been struggling for quite a long time with the disinvestment and the disarray and the chaos that was here on the boulevard," said SHRA Executive Director Anne Moore. "And so we committed to work together to turn this area around." WNC & Associates and First Bank and Trust provided additional financing through low income housing tax credits.

The Ladi Senior Apartments is Youssefi's second motel conversion project on Auburn Boulevard. Sacramento County Supervisor Muriel Johnson represents District 3 where the complex is located. "This is really one of the jewels in our crown on Auburn Boulevard," said Supervisor Johnson. "And when you can see this kind of thing happen, doesn’t it just give you faith that great things are yet going to happen, not only on Auburn Boulevard, but in other communities in the Sacramento region?"

The Ladi Senior Apartments complex features 147 one and two bedroom units, including 8 handicapped accessible apartments, renting for $390 to $495 per month. Amenities include a community building with an activity room, library, exercise room, classroom, swimming pool, gated entrance and video surveillance system, and a convenience store that will sell no alcoholic beverages.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority representing the City and County of Sacramento for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2004 budget of $196 million and approximately 328 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public housing and is one of the largest landlords in Sacramento. SHRA also administers about 11,700 rental assistance vouchers per month.

Media Contacts:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, 916.440.1355 or 916.919.3090
Ladi Senior Apartments, CFY Developers, Inc., 916.446.4040.

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December 10, 2003

USA PROPERTIES FUND OPENS FIRST AFFORDABLE RENTAL APARTMENTS UNDER SACRAMENTO'S MIXED INCOME HOUSING ORDINANCE

Redevelopment Agency provided $1 million loan to finance the Terracina Meadows Apartments in North Natomas

Sacramento, California. Terracina Meadows is now open in North Natomas. The 156-unit apartment complex at 4500 Tynebourne Street was developed by USA Properties Fund. The complex represents the first affordable rental housing community constructed under the City of Sacramento's Inclusionary Housing Ordinance adopted in October 2000 which requires that 15 percent of all new residential development in new growth areas be affordable to households with low or very low incomes.

"USA is very grateful that they can play a role and have the opportunity as a result of that legislation," said Geoff Brown, President of USA Properties.

Terracina Meadows Grand Opening The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (www.shra.org) shares the goal of USA Properties to provide more affordable housing to low and very low income households. SHRA participated in the project by providing a $1 million loan to USA Properties Fund. Additional financing was provided through tax credits.

"The mixed income housing ordinance, as this project demonstrates, is an affirmation of how communities ought to grow and sustain themselves," said Beverly Fretz-Brown, SHRA Director of Development Services. "It exemplifies communities where people of all incomes can have housing choice, working people can live near their jobs, play in the new parks, send their children to the new schools, use the new libraries--that there are these kinds of choices provided for all members of our community regardless of their income."

Terracina Meadows has one, two and three bedroom apartments. 77 percent of the units are affordable to very low and low-income tenants with rents offered at 50 percent and 60 percent of the area median income. The remaining 23 percent of the units are offered at market rates.

The complex features a furnished clubhouse, exercise room, swimming pool and spa, and a variety of activities and events.

"We understand that housing for the workforce population of our community would not exist in the kinds of locations and at the level of quality that we're able to offer if it weren't for the commitment on the part of the community to make it happen," said Steve Gall, Executive Vice President of Development at USA Properties. "And the inclusionary zoning ordinance has been a key step."

Sacramento City Council Member Ray Tretheway represents District 1 in which Terracina Meadows is located. He said inclusionary housing in Natomas is a very large priority on the Council's agenda. "I think you are all aware that we are expecting 60 thousand-plus jobs and we need to have residential opportunities for people that are going to work here," said Council Member Tretheway. "And I think this is one of the best examples that we have today."

Media Contact:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, 916.440.1355 or 916.919.3090
Steve Gall, USA Properties Fund, 916.773.6060

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 8, 2003

SACRAMENTO FOOD BANK WOMEN'S WISDOM PROJECT DISPLAYS ORIGINAL ARTWORK FOR SHOW AND SALE

Women in crisis, recovery and transition find healing power in creating works of art

Sacramento, California. The Women's Wisdom Project of the Sacramento Food Bank invites the public to the second annual show and sale of original works of art created by program participants as an expression of their transition from poverty, mental illness, abuse and trauma. Art works include painting, sculpture, poetry and dolls.

The event takes place at the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency Agora Room, 600 I Street, First Floor, on Friday, December 12, 2003, from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, December 13, 2003, from noon to 8 p.m.

100 percent of the proceeds from the sale benefit the original artists. Admission is free. Refreshments will be served on Friday from 5 to 6 p.m.

The event is presented with support from the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA).

"Art is emotion or feelings made physical with paint, paper, clay or pen," says Rick Reid of the Sacramento Food Bank, which sponsors the Women's Wisdom Project. "Women suffering from crisis in their lives find relief, help and friends as they use art as therapy with the Women's Wisdom Project. They use the healing power of art to recover and create stable productive lives for themselves and their families."

More than 250 women typically attend the free classes each month. According to organizers of the event, the art that results from the efforts of these women contains a rainbow of emotions illustrating their problems and their pain. The art works also bring alive a positive profound feeling of hope, charity and renewal.

Media Contacts:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355 or (916) 919-3090
Luisa Williams, WWP Program Director, Sacramento Food Bank Services, (916) 456-1980

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2003

SHRA SEEKS LOW-INCOME HOMEOWNERS TO APPLY FOR ZERO INTEREST HOME IMPROVEMENT LOANS

Owners who occupy their homes in North Highlands Target Area may be eligible for deferred payment loans up to $50,000

Sacramento, California. Homeowners in the North Highlands area of Sacramento County are being encouraged to apply for no-interest 20-year deferred payment home rehabilitation loans offered by the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency.

The Target Area Create A Loan Home Rehabilitation Program offers special financing incentives for low-income households in owner-occupied single family homes. The North Highlands Single Family Rehabilitation Program Target Area encompasses Watt Avenue, A Street, and Roseville Road.

Homeowners can receive loan funds up to $50,000 to finance real property improvements that substantially protect or improve the basic livability or utility of the property. Up to $10,000 in grant funding for exterior beautification is also available in conjunction with the loan. Smaller loans up to $10,000 are available to pay for single or dual purpose repairs such as painting or a new roof.

Applicants must meet certain Agency eligibility requirements, including qualifying as a low-income household with income less than or equal to 80 percent of the area median income. For example, the current maximum limit for a 4-person household is $47,850. The Agency will also assist applicants in preparing bid packages for contractors to bid on projects as well as selecting a contractor.

For more information about the Target Area Create A Loan Home Rehabilitation Program, visit our website at www.shra.org and click on Affordable Housing/Homeownership and then click on Home Repair Programs. To request a loan application, please call (916) 264-1500.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority created in 1973 by the City and County of Sacramento to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2003 budget of $166 million and approximately 325 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public housing and is one of the largest landlords in Sacramento. SHRA also administers about 11,000 rental assistance vouchers per month.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355, or (916) 919-3090 cell

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, 2003

AGENCY APPLIES FOR STATE FUNDS TO PROVIDE GRANTS FOR IMPROVING EXTERIOR ACCESSIBILITY FOR LOW INCOME DISABLED TENANTS

Program would complement Agency's existing Retrofit Grant Program

Sacramento, California. The Sacramento City Council and the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors today authorized the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency to apply for State funds that can be used to provide grants for exterior modifications to rental properties in the City and County to make them accessible to low-income disabled tenants. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) recently announced the funding availability under the Exterior Accessibility Grants for Renters Program.

The Council and Board authorizations allow the Agency to apply for and receive maximum grants of $500,000 each to operate the Exterior Accessibility Grants for Renters Program (EAGR) over a two-year period. The EAGR program is limited to exterior modifications for renters. If approved by (HCD), the award would supplement the existing Agency funding that is used to administer the Retrofit Grant Program, which the Agency has been operating for twenty years with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. The Retrofit Grant Program provides assistance to disabled residents to increase the accessibility of their homes or rental units. This program is available to both owners and renters and includes interior as well as exterior modifications. According to the Agency, 216 residential units have been made accessible through the Retrofit Grant Program in Sacramento since 1999.

The Agency hopes to hear the outcome of the EAGR application before the end of this year. If approved, funds for the program would be made available in early 2004.

For more information on home repair programs offered by the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, please call (916) 264-1500, or visit our website at www.shra.org.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority created in 1973 by the City and County of Sacramento to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2003 budget of $166 million and approximately 325 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public housing and is one of the largest landlords in Sacramento. SHRA also administers about 11,000 rental assistance vouchers per month.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355, or (916) 919-3090 cell

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, 2003

SHRA RE-OPENS PROGRAM TO HELP BUSINESS OWNERS MAKE EXTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THEIR PROPERTY

Commercial revitalization program will offer zero interest loans

Sacramento, California. The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency today received approval from the City Council and Board of Supervisors to re-open the Commercial Revitalization Program. The Program offers loans and grants to property owners who follow the Agency’s guidelines in making improvements to commercial buildings in designated neighborhood business districts.

"This is a terrific program," says Sacramento County Supervisor Roger Dickinson who represents District 1. "It makes a very visible difference. There's no doubt about it."

The Program has helped improve more than 700 properties in the City and County through loans or grants since it began in 1985. It was closed in 2002 after the Agency was inundated with more applications than the budget could sustain.

Under the re-opened program the Agency plans to offer loans in some areas and grants in other areas, depending on the funding source and budgetary constraints. Where loans are offered they will be at zero interest up to $50,000 and will require a 10 percent owner equity match. Where grants are offered, they will also be up to $50,000, but will require a 50 percent private match.

"My sense of the current market for commercial real estate and the current economics in our City and County tells me that this program is really going to be taken advantage of," says Commercial Revitalization Program Manager Jim Hare. "The values have increased for commercial property and that means that people are more willing to reinvest in those properties."

The Agency will continue its partnership with Farmer's and Merchants Bank, River City Bank and California Bank and Trust which have been offering special commercial rehabilitation loans to the Agency's clients since 2000.

Applications are available through the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency Development Services Department at (916) 440-1328. For more information about Agency programs and services, visit our website at www.shra.org.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority created in 1973 by the City and County of Sacramento to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2003 budget of $166 million and approximately 325 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public housing and is one of the largest landlords in Sacramento. SHRA also administers about 11,000 rental assistance vouchers per month.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355, or (916) 919-3090 cell

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2003

CITY AND COUNTY REDEVELOPMENT PROJECTS NOMINATED FOR AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Oak Park neighborhood and former Mather Air Force Base chosen as successful examples of business and affordable housing revitalization

Sacramento, California. Two projects by the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency have been nominated for the California Redevelopment Agency Awards of Excellence. The 40 Acres Complex and Guild Theatre commercial redevelopment project in the city's Oak Park neighborhood and the county's Independence at Mather single-family redevelopment project are being considered for the 2004 competition. The Awards of Excellence program brings statewide public and professional recognition to those projects and programs which have made exemplary contributions to the redevelopment process and resulted in the betterment of communities.

40 Acres Complex in Oak Park The 40 Acres Complex and Guild Theater has been a catalyst for community revitalization and bringing a variety of unique retail, residential, and cultural uses to the Oak Park neighborhood. The project has also had a lasting impact on Oak Park residents and has created and strengthened partnerships with community institutions. Many church and community groups meet at Starbucks to conduct business. The Guild Theater is partnering with the University of California at Davis’ Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts and the Sacramento Philharmonic to provide quality and educational programming. McGeorge Law School’s students have a local place to study and prepare for classes within walking distance of campus.

As one of the few remaining commercial buildings in a transit and pedestrian friendly neighborhood, the project has reinforced the existing urban development pattern by restoring lost pedestrian activity patterns. The installation of new pedestrian-style historic streetlights in the 35^th Street District has resulted in residents and students walking to the 40 Acres Complex and Guild Theater. Most importantly, the project has begun to generate a renewed interest in the area around the site, demonstrating a true catalyst project.

The Agency provided $2.8 million in loan funds towards the project, which includes a condition that the housing rental units are made available to families earning 110% of the median income for a minimum of 15 years.

Mather Air Force Base closed in 1991 after 50 years of operation, resulting in the loss of more than 7,000 jobs and $150 million annually injected into the Sacramento economy. It also left the former military housing complex completely vacant.

Independence at Mather residential area Independence at Mather was developed as part of a larger strategy to turn the outdated, dilapidated, and deteriorated former military base into a thriving community that combines residential, commercial, and recreational opportunities. The overwhelming success of the single-family residential site developed by KB Homes contributed to Mather being recognized as a national model on how to convert former military bases into thriving communities.

In addition to the 1,271 residential structures left on site by the military, there were also two schools, several parks, mature vegetation, and plenty of open space. Independence at Mather is surrounded on all four sides by open space. Mature vegetation is embedded within the development and provides for an upgraded and secluded ambience. Both schools left by the military are now under operation by the Folsom Cordova Unified School District and serve the residents of Independence at Mather. Several parks are weaved into the community to provide for extra curricular recreation activities. In addition, residents at Independence at Mather need only drive only a few minutes to meet all of their other commercial and recreational desires.

Independence at Mather is located near the Mather Regional Park, which operates the Mather Golf Course, Mather Lake, and other recreational areas that were all left by the military. Mather Commerce Center, a thriving 250-acre commercial office complex, is minutes away from the residential housing site and provides opportunities for employment within a short distance from the homes. Independence at Mather is also located within a short distance of Mather Airport, one of the region’s largest commercial cargo airports.

The Agency committed over $9 million dollars from various sources to make the Independence at Mather project economically feasible and financially stable. Due to the strong demand for housing at Independence at Mather and a thirty percent ratio of affordable homes within the community, the project is considered a rousing success and one of the few affordable, for-sale, single family subdivisions of its size in all of California.

A joint powers authority of the City and County of Sacramento, SHRA administers ten redevelopment project areas within and, in some cases, across, the two jurisdictions SHRA generates tax increment of $5.2 million annually from these project areas. The Agency was created in 1973, and serves as the Redevelopment Agency and Housing Authority for both jurisdictions. Agency staff also reports to the Housing and Redevelopment Commission, a 10-member advisory board appointed by the governing boards. The Agency’s current annual budget is approximately $130 million and has an experienced staff of 316 people.

Media Contact:

Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355, or (916) 919-3090 cell

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 20, 2003

FOLSOM CORDOVA PLANS RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY FOR NEW STUDENT UNION

Facility addresses community need for safe, constructive, fun place for Rancho Cordova teens

The Folsom Cordova Unified School District will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly constructed Cordova Student Union on Tuesday, October 28, 2003, at 4:00 p.m., at Cordova High School, 2239 Chase Drive in Rancho Cordova. School district officials and other noted supporters will speak at the event, which will include a flag ceremony by Academy of Justice students, and music by the Cordova High School Jazz Band. The facility will be open for tours after the ribbon cutting ceremony and refreshments will be served.

The Cordova Student Union will serve as a hub for middle school and high school teens seeking access and referrals to a wide range of learning support services and activities. Through the generous support of GenCorp/Aerojet, the Student Union will open to students with furnishings and staffed with a part-time coordinator. Assignment of other school district personnel from District Title 1 resources allows for the Student Union to be open Monday through Friday during the day and after school until 6 p.m., excluding school holidays. Services such as tutoring and enrichment activities will be offered by partner organizations including the Jewish Family Service of Sacramento, Rancho Cordova Neighborhood Center, Another Choice/Another Chance, and others.

Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency awarded $172,500 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to the District for the construction and installation of the facility. The grant award for the student union project resulted from the successful initiative of the Cordova High School Collaborative established in 1999 as part of a Healthy Start Planning Grant. During the two year planning grant, the Collaborative partners gathered input from students, parents, and community members to identify programs and services to effectively improve academics, student attendance, and conduct. Consistently, each interest group identified a need for a safe, constructive, and fun place for teenagers in Rancho Cordova to go after school.

The Cordova High School Collaborative is seeking additional donations to fully equip the Student Union and to provide non-categorical staff support, including recreational and enrichment programming. For more information about the Cordova High School Collaborative and the Cordova Student Union, please contact Family Support Services Coordinator Linda Burkholder at 861-0611.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355, or (916) 919-3090 cell
Rebecca Sloan, Public Relations/Government Affairs, FCUSD, (916) 355-1100

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 3, 2003

GRADUATION SET FOR UNEMPLOYED TRAINEES READY TO START NEW JOBS IN APPRENTICESHIP CONSTRUCTION TRADES

Class project involved building affordable homes for low-income families

One student plans to live in one of the homes she helped build

Sacramento, California. Nearly 40 under- and unemployed Sacramento residents will receive certificates of completion while family members and friends witness their emotionally memorable graduation ceremony for the 2003 class of Sacramento's Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training Program on Saturday, October 18, 2003, at 10:00 a.m., at the Depot Conference Center, Sacramento Room, 8215 Ferguson Avenue at the former Sacramento Army Depot. The students have completed a six-month classroom and construction training program to build three homes in the Oak Park area of Sacramento. The houses will be sold to low-income first time homebuyers. A tour of one of the new homes will be offered immediately following the ceremony.

Special guests and speakers invited to the ceremony include Assemblyman Darrell Steinberg (D) Sacramento, 9th District; Sacramento County Supervisor Roger Dickinson, District 1; Sacramento City Councilmember Lauren Hammond, District 5; Sandra Waterhouse, U.S. Department of Labor; Nathan Dietrich, Aide to Congressman Robert Matsui (D), 5th District; and Anne Moore, Executive Director, Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency. Several students will also give remarks about their experience in the six-month program.

With sponsorship by Congressman Robert Matsui, the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA) secured a $800,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to operate the Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Training Program. SHRA also provided the lots on which the houses were constructed. Northern California Construction Training, Inc., (NCCT) provides the training. The program provides two benefits to the Sacramento community by training low-income and under-employed individuals with skills in a profession that pays above average wages, and adds three single-family homes to the affordable housing stock in Oak Park.

The NCCT program provided master carpenters who trained the students in the classroom as well as on the job site to build the houses with their own hands using their newly acquired practical knowledge. The students are paid $280 per work week and rotate their training during the program in a variety of homebuilding construction trades, including plumbing, carpentry, plastering, electrical, and sheet metal. The educational curriculum includes basic math and reading skills enhancement and GED preparation.

NCCT also works to place the students in apprenticeship positions in one of 16 trades. Several of the students already have jobs lined up after graduation. Over the past 10 years in partnership with SHRA, NCCT has graduated more than 300 students and built more than 30 affordable homes in the Oak Park, Del Paso Heights, Avondale/Glen Elder and Meadowview areas of Sacramento. NCCT is the only program of its kind in California.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority created in 1973 by the City and County of Sacramento to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2003 budget of $166 million and approximately 325 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public housing and is one of the largest landlords in Sacramento. SHRA also administers about 11,000 rental assistance vouchers per month.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355, (916) 919-3090 cell
Bill Meehan, President, NCCT, (916) 387-1564
Jake Meehan, NCCT, (916) 869-5042
Ted Niles, NCCT, (916) 870-9216

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RELEASE IMMEDIATELY
September 29, 2003

REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AWARDED $29 MILLION IN TAX CREDIT RESERVATION FOR PHOENIX PARK PROJECT

Construction to develop 360 affordable apartments slated to begin in February 2004

Sacramento, California. The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA) today received a reservation of $29 million in federal and state low income housing tax credits from the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) for the Phoenix Park I revitalization project. Tax credits are used to encourage private investment in projects to acquire, rehabilitate and build low income rental housing.

The three-member TCAC chaired by California State Treasurer Phil Angelides approved the Agency's tax credit award based on a highly competitive review process in which 97 applicants were considered.

City Councilmember Bonnie Pannell, whose District 8 representation includes Phoenix Park, says this tax credit award is a major accomplishment for the Phoenix Park I project.

"I am so pleased that TCAC understood how difficult it was to bring together all the elements needed to make this project possible," said Councilmember Pannell. "This is the largest tax credit reservation the Agency has ever received, and the award underscores the overall importance of Phoenix Park and the need to create safe, decent housing for our residents who can least afford it."`

Agency Executive Director Anne Moore says the tax credit award exemplifies the Agency's goal of revitalizing Phoenix Park as a way to create more mixed-income housing units throughout Sacramento, particularly for people in the lower household income ranges.

"Fully 100 percent of the housing in Phoenix Park I will be available to families who earn between 30 and 60 percent of the area average median income," says Executive Director Anne Moore. "These are families and seniors in the extremely low, very low, and low income categories, and they are the ones who find it most difficult to get access to life's most basic necessity, a safe place to live. Phoenix Park I will help fulfill this critically unmet need."

The $80 million Phoenix Park project includes the Agency's acquisition and rehabilitation of 464 units contained in 116 fourplex buildings at Franklin Boulevard and G Parkway. The community of mostly privately owned properties has historically suffered from criminal activity and maintenance neglect. The current 2-bedroom units will be reconstructed into 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom apartments for families and seniors. The renovation includes creation of open space, and increasing safety by converting alleyways to private backyards and secured maintenance access. The project also calls for the construction of a resident community center with meeting rooms and learning space, a swimming pool, laundry rooms, and age-appropriate play areas, as well as a Head Start program facility for toddlers and pre-school age children. A professional property management company has already opened its office onsite.

As a condition of the tax credit reservation, construction on Phoenix Park I is slated to begin in February 2004. For more information on the project, log on to www.shra.org.

SHRA is a Joint Powers Authority created in 1973 by the City and County of Sacramento to represent both jurisdictions for affordable housing and community redevelopment needs. SHRA owns 3,600 units of public housing and is one of the largest landlords in Sacramento. SHRA also administers about 11,000 rental assistance vouchers per month. SHRA oversees residential and commercial revitalization activities in 10 redevelopment areas throughout the city and county, and is the region's leading public developer of affordable housing. The Agency provides a variety of programs for first-time homebuyers and offers several loan programs and other assistance to the business community. SHRA has a FY 2003 budget of $166 million and approximately 325 employees who work in the Agency's Housing Authority, City and County Community Development, Program Operations, Development Services and Administration Departments.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355
Aileen Foley, District Director for Councilmember Bonnie Pannell, (916) 808-7337

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 2003

PUBLIC INVITED TO WORKSHOPS AND PUBLIC HEARING ON REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY PROPOSED 2004 BUDGET

Sacramento, California. The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Commission (SHRC) will hold two workshops and one public hearing to discuss the proposed 2004 Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA) budget. The meetings will be held according to the following schedule:

Wednesday, October 1, 2003, 6 p.m.
SHRC Commission Room
600 I Street, First Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814

Wednesday, October 15, 2003, 7 p.m.
SHRC Commission Room
600 I Street, First Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814

Wednesday, November 5, 2003, 6 p.m.
SHRC Commission Room
600 I Street, First Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814

The October 1 workshop presentations will include an overview of the Agency financial data, and presentations on administrative plans and Housing Authority activities for the 2004 budget year. On October 15, the workshop will cover Redevelopment Agency activities, including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME, for the 2004 budget year. Budget documents will not be available for these workshops. The public hearing on November 5 will be a summarization of the two previous workshops and recommended approval of the proposed budget.

Citizens may comment on the proposed budget at the workshops and public hearing. All comments received will be considered during the approval process for the 2004 Agency Budget.

Copies of the Proposed 2004 Agency Budget will be available at no charge after 2:00 p.m., on Friday, October 31, 2003, and thereafter during regular office hours at the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, Finance Department Office, 630 I Street, Third Floor, Sacramento, California, 95814. For telephone inquiries, please call (916) 440-1340.

Public hearings to consider approval of the 2004 Agency budget will be held according to the following schedule:

Tuesday, December 2, 2003 , 10:15 a.m.	Tuesday, December 2, 2003, 2 p.m.
Sacramento County Board of Supervisors	City of Sacramento City Council
Sacramento County Housing Authority	Sacramento Housing Authority
Sacramento County Redevelopment Agency	Sacramento Redevelopment Agency
Sacramento Housing Development Corporation	Interim City Hall, Council Chambers
Board Room	730 I Street, First Floor
700 H Street, Sacramento CA 95814	Sacramento, CA 95814

Questions regarding the workshops or the proposed budget should be directed to Richard Slaymaker, Budget Officer, Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, 630 I Street, Sacramento, California, 95814, or by telephone at (916) 440-1373.

MEDIA CONTACT: Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2003

SACRAMENTO TEACHERS INVITED TO LEARN ABOUT AGENCY FUNDING ASSISTANCE FOR FIRST HOME PURCHASE

Program offers up to $7,500 down payment and tax credits for teachers in eligible schools

Sacramento, California. The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, in partnership with the Home Loan Counseling Center will hold orientations for its Expanded Teacher Home Purchase Program. The sessions will take place on Tuesday, September 30th and Monday, October 20, 2003, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Sacramento Association of Realtors Auditorium, 2003 Howe Avenue in Sacramento. Participants may attend either of the sessions free of charge and may register by calling (916) 642-2005.

The orientation will inform participants about the Agency's Expanded Teacher Home Purchase Program which offers down payment assistance for teachers and other credentialed school district staff to buy their first home anywhere in Sacramento County. Eligible teachers may receive up to $7,500 in down payment assistance, plus a mortgage credit certificate--tax credit.

Applicants may live anywhere in Sacramento County and must be a first time buyer, meaning not owning a principal residence in the last 3 years. Certain exceptions apply. Applicants must also be a fully credentialed staff member and teaching or working at a low performing school or low performing school district.

Maximum total household annual gross income must be not more than $60,300 for a 1 or 2 person household; $69,345 for a 3 or more person household. The purchase price limits for new homes is $278,830; for resale homes $214,405. Limits may be higher in certain areas.

For more information, please contact the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency Expanded Teacher Home Purchase Program Administrator at (916) 264-1524. To learn more about the Agency's homebuyer assistance programs, log on to our website at www.shra.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2003

BANK OF AMERICA PARTNERS WITH SACRAMENTO HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO PROVIDE $6 MILLION INVESTMENT IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING

BofA financing keeps Phoenix Park redevelopment project on track

Sacramento, California. The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency has received a $6 million secured line of credit from Bank of America to finance predevelopment activity at the Phoenix Park redevelopment project, formerly known as Franklin Villa.

"Bank of America worked tirelessly with the Agency to assemble this financing package and the timing couldn't be better," says City Councilmember Bonnie Pannell who represents District 8 where Phoenix Park is located. This major housing improvement project has been progressing as planned and the BofA loan will ensure that we keep the momentum on track."

BofA officials say the financing is an example of the company's longstanding commitment to the community, particularly in terms of providing affordable housing.

"This funding is one of many ways that Bank of America supports important needs in communities throughout California and the nation," says Harvey Radin, BofA spokesperson. "In the last year alone, the bank has provided financing for more than 6,000 affordable housing units in California."

The financing from BofA will enable the Phoenix Park redevelopment project to stay on schedule to start construction in the first quarter of 2004. Formerly known as Franklin Villa, the community consists of privately owned 2-bedroom four-plexes and has historically been challenged by public safety issues and a diminishing lack of pride in ownership. The Phoenix Park redevelopment project will create affordable one-, two- three-, and four-bedroom rental units under consolidated ownership. A professional property management company has been hired to manage the site and is now in place at Phoenix Park and a variety of resource services and programs are provided to residents.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355
Aileen Foley, District Director for Councilmember Pannell, (916) 808-7337

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2003

SACRAMENTO HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY LAUNCHES SEARCH FOR GLOBE MILLS SITE DEVELOPER

SHRA seeks to redevelop historic site as a jumpstart to revitalize downtown gateway

The Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency is pleased to offer an exciting development opportunity in Sacramento’s Central City by seeking qualified development teams to acquire and develop the historic Globe Mills property. Globe Mills represents an outstanding chance to invest in one of the country’s fastest growing and diverse communities.

Globe Mills is located at the intersection of 12th and C streets in the Alkali Flat neighborhood, a major gateway to the Central City and downtown. The property serves as the only remaining visual reminder in the central city of the industry that for many years was a strong part of Sacramento’s economy. The site consists of four parcels containing approximately 50,625 square feet. The main building rises five floors and encompasses approximately 22,500 square feet.

"I am excited about the development potential for this gateway landmark to our city," says City Councilmember Ray Tretheway who represents District 1 where the 90-year-old building is located. "Globe Mills played an integral role in the industrial development of Sacramento. Today it represents a unique opportunity to revive the economic vitality that once thrived in this community."

Numerous national examples exist of adaptive reuse of older industrial buildings. Stories of successful conversions into offices, museums, art space, and loft living are featured regularly in the development news. The Flour Mills project in Denver and the American Beauty Mill in Dallas provide striking examples of adaptation of former mills into vibrant loft living. These commercially successful projects have capitalized on the growing demand for downtown living and created projects of unique appeal.

Submissions from qualified development teams are due at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 21, 2003. Potential applicants are encouraged to attend a pre-proposal meeting will be held on September 30, 2003, at 9:00 a.m., in the Commission Room, 600 I Street, Sacramento.

To learn more about this challenging opportunity or to request a copy of the Request for Qualifications/Proposals, contact SHRA’s Procurement Services Division by mail at 320 Commerce Circle, Sacramento, California, 95815. You may also contact us by telephone at (916) 566-1200, or by email at ctrice@shra.org). Visit our website at http://www.shra.org/Content/DoingBusinessWithSHRA/Bidding/Notice/2003087.htm.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Angela Jones, Public Information Officer, SHRA, (916) 440-1355
Karen Pardieck, District Director for Councilmember Ray Tretheway, (916) 808-7001

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