COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION

FROM CONCEPT TO LIFE-PIONEER PARK SUBDIVISION

The Pioneer Park Subdivision project is now a "Reality" after maintaining homeownership worthiness during a five-year process. FRom years of visual concepts to actual homes being constructed by Sunrise City CHDO, homeowners have excitedly moved in. Angelina Rolle, a first-time homeowner, with a huge smile, stated: "it was worth the wait". To date 16 homes have been constructed, two are tentatively scheduled to close August 29, 2008, and the remaining two will close the end of September. All homeowners received down payment and closing costs assistance through the City's SHIP and/or HHR programs. Pioneer Park Subdivision housing development was a joint project with Sunrise City C.H.D.O., the City of Fort Pierce Community Services and Public Works Departments, Ft. Pierce Redevelopment Agency and Ft. Pierce Utilities Authority.

DISASTER RECOVERY FUNDS

The City received $452,361.00 as its share of over $11.5 million in Federal CDBG Emergency Funds which were granted to the State for hurricane recovery. An additional supplemental funding of $1,366,479.56 was awarded to the City in May 2008 to meet added disaster recovery needs. Funds are projected to used to address community needs with following: Housing Repair/Rehabilitation - Replacement Housing - Asbestos/Lead-based paint removal - Down-payment Assistance - Demolition - Water/Sewer IMprovment for Avenue Q - Temporary Relocation.

HURRICANE HOUSING RECOVERY PROGRAM

In 2005 the Legislature approved $250 million worth of funding which was granted to eligible entities by county based on a disaster impact formula set by the Work Group. St. Lucie County was ranked as the third hardest hit County in Florida, in which the City of Fort Pierce received $7,296,658. Community Services Division expended $5,136,120 to assist city residents as follows: (23) housing rehabilitation, (49) down payment, (14) housing, (30) acquisition of building materials, (92) re-entry assistance, (26) hazard mitigation, (41) eviction prevention, (12) foreclosure prevention, and (15) land acquisition/new construction. The remaining $2 million has been allotted to assist with financing The Oaks at Moore's Creek Housing Development. This project will offer new affordable homes (three or four bedrooms) to Essential Services Personnel. Housing plans have been developed, the preliminary plat has been approved, and construction of the sub-division will begin soon. The site will support an exciting and affordable neighborhood of 12 homes. Due to the hard work and determination of The Oaks at Moore's Creek Task Team, the projected closing date for the first six homes will be no later than February 2009. Hats off to The Oaks at Moore's Creek Task Team.

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