94-12565. Funding Availability for FY 1994; Invitation for Applications: Public Housing Development; Notice DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT  

  • [Federal Register Volume 59, Number 99 (Tuesday, May 24, 1994)]
    [Unknown Section]
    [Page 0]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 94-12565]
    
    
    [[Page Unknown]]
    
    [Federal Register: May 24, 1994]
    
    
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    Part V
    
    
    
    
    
    Department of Housing and Urban Development
    
    
    
    
    
    _______________________________________________________________________
    
    
    
    Office of Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing
    
    
    
    _______________________________________________________________________
    
    
    
    
    Funding Availability for FY 1994; Invitation for Applications: Public 
    Housing Development; Notice
    DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
    
    Office of Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing
    [Docket No. N-94-3763; FR-3676-N-01]
    
     
    Funding Availability for FY 1994; Invitation for Applications: 
    Public Housing Development
    
    AGENCY: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian 
    Housing, HUD.
    
    ACTION: Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 1994 
    for public housing development; invitation for applications.
    
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    SUMMARY: This NOFA announces the availability of FY 1994 funding, and 
    invites eligible public housing agencies (PHAs) to submit applications 
    for public housing development. Applications are limited to:
        (1) Replacements for demolition/disposition subject to section 18 
    of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (USHA);
        (2) Replacements for homeownership transfers under the HOPE I 
    Program, and homeownership sales under section 5(h) of the USHA;
        (3) Unforeseen housing needs resulting from natural and other 
    disasters; housing needs resulting from emergencies, as certified by 
    the Secretary, other than such disasters; housing needs resulting from 
    the settlement of litigation; and housing in support of desegregation 
    efforts; and
        (4) ``Other'' applications.
        All successful applicants will be required to participate in the 
    Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, unless granted an exception. 
    This NOFA also provides instructions regarding the preparation and 
    processing of applications. The Department is also encouraging 
    applicants to form ``partnerships'' consisting of cooperative 
    arrangements with community-based entities to provide housing, and is 
    encouraging PHAs to engage in ``mixed income'' development (wherein 
    public housing units are integrated within market-rate developments). 
    This is being done by providing additional points for such efforts (see 
    sections III.E.5 and IV.E. of this NOFA).
        This NOFA is not applicable to the Indian housing program.
    
    DATES: Applications are due at the HUD Field Office on or before 4 
    p.m., local time, on July 8, 1994. See Section III of this NOFA for 
    further information on application submission. If an application is 
    mailed to the Field Office, the PHA must clearly write ``PUBLIC HOUSING 
    DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION'' on the outside of the envelope and obtain a 
    return receipt indicating the date and time of delivery. Hand delivered 
    applications shall be date/time stamped and initialed by the employee 
    receiving the application upon delivery.
        The application deadline is firm as to date and hour. In the 
    interest of fairness to all applicants, HUD will not consider any 
    application that is received after the deadline. PHAs should take this 
    into account and submit applications as early as possible to avoid risk 
    brought about by unanticipated delays or delivery-related problems. In 
    particular, PHAs intending to mail applications must provide sufficient 
    time to permit delivery on or before the deadline date. Acceptance by a 
    Post Office or private mailer does not constitute delivery. Facsimile 
    (Fax), COD, and postage due applications will not be accepted.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Janice Rattley, Office of 
    Construction, Rehabilitation and Maintenance, Department of Housing and 
    Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, SW., room 4136, Washington, DC 
    20410. Telephone (202) 708-1800 (voice) or (202) 708-4594 (TDD). (These 
    are not toll-free numbers.)
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
    
    Paperwork Reduction Act Statement
    
        The information collection requirements contained in this NOFA have 
    been approved by the OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 and 
    have been assigned OMB control numbers 2577-0033, 2577-0036, and 2577-
    0044.
    
    I. Introduction
    
    A. Authority
    
        Sections 5 and 23 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (USHA) 
    (42 U.S.C. 1437c and 1437u); and section 7(d) of the Department of 
    Housing and Urban Development Act (42 U.S.C. 3535(d)).
        Public housing development regulations are published at 24 CFR part 
    941; demolition/disposition regulations are published at 24 CFR part 
    970; section 5(h) regulations are published at 24 CFR part 906.
        The interim and final regulations for the public housing FSS 
    program were published on May 27, 1993, at 58 FR 30858, and 58 FR 
    30906, respectively, and will be codified at 24 CFR part 962. (The FSS 
    final rule simply adopts the FSS interim rule as the FSS final 
    regulations.)
        The Notice of Program Guidelines for the HOPE-1 program was 
    published on January 14, 1992 at 57 FR 1522. The Catalog of Federal 
    Domestic Assistance Program number is 14.850.
    
    B. Fund Availability
    
        The Department of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban 
    Development and Independent Agencies Appropriation Act of 1994 (Pub. L. 
    103-124, approved October 28, 1993) (1994 Appropriations Act) makes 
    available up to $598 million of budget authority (grants) for public 
    housing development/Major Reconstruction of Obsolete Public Housing 
    (MROP) under section 5(a)(2) of the USHA. Since some of the 
    appropriated funds are to be derived from the recapture of prior year 
    obligations, the actual amount available may be less. At the beginning 
    of Fiscal Year (FY) 1994, the available amount was $542,796,616, which 
    included $149,534 in available carryover funds. As recaptures of funds 
    within the Annual Contributions account occur during the fiscal year, 
    these amounts will be made available for allocation to public housing 
    development up to the fully appropriated amount, plus carryover.
        In accordance with section 624 of the Housing and Community 
    Development Act of 1992 (Pub. L. 102-550, approved October 28, 1992) 
    (HCD Act of 1992), HUD has established a set-aside of five percent of 
    appropriated funds (up to $29,900,000 depending on recaptures) for the 
    development of housing designated for disabled families, and up to 
    $119,200,000 (depending on recaptures) for activities involving MROP 
    activities. Applications for designated housing for disabled families 
    and for MROP activities will be the subject of separate NOFAs to be 
    published by the Department.
        The use of funds for replacement housing subject to section 18 of 
    the USHA is limited to the lesser of 30 percent of the amount 
    appropriated for development or $150 million. One half of one percent 
    of the appropriated amount (up to $2,990,000) has been set aside for 
    technical assistance and inspections. Units transferred or sold to 
    residents under HOPE I or section 5(h) are subject to replacement in 
    accordance with section 304(g) of the USHA. Based on experience, the 
    Department will provide up to $76,059,534 for such replacements. The 
    balance of funds will be fair shared.
        The following table illustrates the distribution of grant 
    authority. 
    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Amount            
                    Purpose                  -------------------------------
                                                (Maximum)       (Minimum)   
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Housing for Disabled....................     $29,900,000     $26,635,460
    MROP Activities.........................     119,200,000     116,139,686
    Sec 18 Replacement Units................     150,000,000     150,000,000
    Technical Assistance/Inspections........       2,990,000       2,663,547
    HOPE I and Sec 5(h) Replacement.........      76,059,534      63,546,250
    Fair-Share..............................     220,000,000    183,811,673 
                                             -------------------------------
                                                 598,149,534   $542,796,616 
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    C. Fund Assignments
    
        Section 213(d) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 
    (HCD Act of 1974) requires that funds be allocated on a fair share 
    basis, except for (a) amounts identified as Headquarters Reserve and 
    (b) amounts determined incapable of geographic allocation. The amounts 
    identified by category below are maximums.
    1. Headquarters Reserve
        Threshold-approvable applications for housing resulting from 
    unforeseen housing needs resulting from natural and other disasters; 
    housing needs resulting from emergencies, as certified by the 
    Secretary, other than such disasters; housing needs resulting from the 
    settlement of litigation; and housing in support of desegregation 
    efforts shall be assigned Headquarters Reserve funding. (Headquarters 
    Reserve amounts are limited in accordance with section 104 of the 
    Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989 (Pub. L. 
    101-235, approved December 15, 1989), to five percent of the financial 
    assistance that becomes available under the USHA and section 101 of the 
    HUD Act of 1965. Thus, Headquarters Reserve funding decisions will be 
    made by Headquarters and may affect the distribution of grant authority 
    shown above.)
    2. Fair Share
        Depending on recaptures, up to $220 million will be fair shared to 
    approve category 4 (``other'') applications. These fair share funds 
    will be distributed to Areas (formerly Regions) on the basis of the 
    following fair share factors, which reflect the most recent decennial 
    census data as to population, poverty, housing overcrowding, housing 
    vacancies, amount of substandard housing, and other measurable 
    conditions.
        Because of errors in FY 1993 in calculating category 4 scores under 
    the June 28, 1993, NOFA (58 FR 34670) for the Laconia Housing and 
    Redevelopment Authority (LHRA) in New Hampshire and the Nahunta Housing 
    Authority (NHA) in Georgia, fair share funds in the amounts of $753,400 
    and $759,400, respectively, will be awarded from the fair share amounts 
    provided to the New England and Southeast Area before making FY 1994 
    selections, and assigned to the LHRA and NHA applications. The 
    correction of these errors shall not adversely affect their 
    participation in the FY 1994 rating and ranking process. If a new 
    application is filed by the LHRA or NHA under this NOFA, they will be 
    rated and ranked on the same basis as other applications, as if no 
    error had been made. Any unused assignments will be redistributed, 
    proportional to need, among remaining Areas with approvable unfunded 
    ``other'' applications.
        Fair share and Headquarters Reserve funds are also subject to the 
    requirement of section 213 of the HCD Act of 1974 that not less than 20 
    percent nor more than 25 percent of the HUD aggregate program funds 
    covered by the statute be allocated for use in nonmetropolitan areas. 
    Therefore, public housing development fund allocations to select 
    ``other'' applications may be modified before assignment in order to 
    ensure Departmental compliance with this statutory and regulatory 
    requirement (see 24 CFR 791.403(a)).
    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     Fair-  
                                                                     share  
                                 Area                               factors 
                                                                      (%)   
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    New England..................................................        7.2
    New York/New Jersey..........................................       18.3
    Mid-Atlantic.................................................        9.4
    Southeast....................................................       13.8
    Midwest......................................................       15.1
    Southwest....................................................        7.7
    Great Plains.................................................        3.6
    Rocky Mountain...............................................        2.5
    Pacific/Hawaii...............................................       18.7
    Northwest/Alaska.............................................       3.7 
                                                                  ----------
          Total..................................................     100.0 
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    3. Non-Fair Share
        Thirty percent of the appropriated amount, up to $150 million, will 
    be made available for applications for replacement housing subject to 
    section 18 of the USHA. Up to $76,059,534 will be made available for 
    approvable applications for replacement units for HOPE 1 or section 
    5(h) homeownership transfers or sales.
    4. Remaining Balances
        Any residual funds not reserved under categories 1, 2, and 3 will 
    be added to the funds to be fair shared for ``other'' approvable 
    applications.
    
    D. Conformity to Regulations and NOFA Requirements
    
        While conformity with 24 CFR part 941 is required, this funding 
    effort is also subject to the additional specific requirements, 
    consistent with the regulations, that are set forth in this NOFA. 
    Applicants also should consult Handbook 7417.1 REV-1, the FY 1994 
    detailed Processing Notice, and the FSS interim and final regulations 
    published on May 27, 1993 at 58 FR 30858 and 58 FR 30906, respectively, 
    which will be codified at 24 CFR part 962. The selection criteria 
    specified in this NOFA may not be added to or modified.
    
    II. Application Process Overview
    
    A. General
    
        All applications shall be submitted to the appropriate Field Office 
    by the application deadline date. The Field Office shall screen each 
    application for completeness and will provide the PHA a 14-day 
    opportunity to furnish missing technical information or exhibits, or to 
    correct technical mistakes. Each application will then be subjected to 
    a ``pass/fail'' threshold examination. Approvable category 1, 2, and 3 
    applications will be reported to Headquarters for further action.
        Category 4 passing applications will be forwarded for rating to 
    Rating Panel(s). One or more Rating Panels, comprised of HUD Field 
    representatives appointed by Headquarters, shall be convened for the 
    purpose. Category 4 applications will be rated by the Rating Panel(s) 
    based on Field Office analyses. Headquarters will determine the funds 
    required to approve category 1, 2, and 3 applications and select 
    category 4 applications based on Rating Panel ratings and 
    recommendations.
    
    B. Categories of Applications
    
        Each application must be for one of the following categories:
        1. Replacement units for demolition/disposition approvals, subject 
    to section 18 of the USHA (Category 1)
        2. Replacement units for HOPE I or section 5(h) home-ownership 
    transfers or sales (Category 2);
        3. Public housing to be funded from Headquarters Reserve (Category 
    3); or
        4. ``Other'' development applications intended to increase the 
    public housing stock (Category 4). Category 4 applicants are limited to 
    no more than one application per locality.
    
    C. Application Approval
    
        1. Up to the available amount for category 1 applications (see 
    section I.B. of this NOFA) and all category 3 approvable applications 
    will be funded.
        2. Up to $76,059,534 will be made available for approvable category 
    2 applications.
        3. Category 4 (other) applications will be funded up to the fair 
    share amounts for each Area.
        4. Funds not required for categories 1, 2, or 3 will be added to 
    the funds to be fair shared for ``other'' approvable applications.
    
    D. Disclosure of Information
    
        The Department of Housing and Urban Development Reform Act of 1989 
    (HUD Reform Act) prohibits advance disclosure of funding decisions (see 
    24 CFR part 4); civil penalties related to advance disclosure are set 
    out in 24 CFR part 30. Application approval/non-approval notifications 
    shall not occur until the Congressional notification process is 
    completed.
    
    E. Records Retention
    
        Applications and materials related to applications (e.g., Field 
    Office analyses, application scoring sheets, and notifications of 
    selection/non-selection) will be retained in the appropriate Field 
    Office for five years, and be available for public inspection in 
    accordance with 24 CFR part 12.
    
    III. Application Requirements
    
    A. All Applicants
    
        Each application must specify the housing type (new construction, 
    rehabilitation, or acquisition), development method (conventional, 
    turnkey, or acquisition), and community for which the project is 
    proposed. No more than one housing type, development method, and 
    locality may be proposed for an application. Each application shall 
    consist of an original and two copies, and must include the following:
    1. Cover Letter
         The cover letter must identify the category of application (see 
    section II.B. of this NOFA for a description of the categories; see 
    also subparagraph 6 of section III.A of this NOFA).
    2. Application-Form HUD 52470
        The application must be signed by the person authorized and dated 
    and include the information as specified in the form.
    3. Evidence of Legal Eligibility
        If it has not previously done so, the PHA must document that it is 
    legally organized. A current General Certificate (Form HUD 9009) must 
    be submitted.
    4. Cooperation Agreement (Form HUD 52481)
        The PHA must document that the number of units requested, along 
    with units in management and other units in development, are covered by 
    Cooperation Agreements.
    5. PHA Resolution In Support of the Application (Form HUD-52471)
        Under this resolution, the PHA agrees to comply with all 
    requirements of 24 CFR part 941 (see also paragraph 6 of this section 
    III.A). By executing the PHA Resolution, the PHA also certifies that it 
    will comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 
    U.S.C. 12131) and the implementing regulations at 28 CFR part 35.
    6. Front-End Funds
        If front-end funds are being requested, the PHA must so state in 
    its cover letter; should the PHA desire the project only if front-end 
    funds can be approved, the PHA must so state. The Form HUD-52471 (PHA 
    Resolution) must refer to the request, and include Form HUD-52472 
    (Local Governing Body Resolution/Transcript of Proceedings) approving 
    the request.
    7. Drug-Free Workplace
        The PHA must submit the Certification for a Drug-Free Workplace 
    (Form HUD-50070) in accordance with 24 CFR 24.630.
    8. Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans and Cooperative Agreement 
    (Form HUD-50071)
        In accordance with section 319 of the Department of Interior and 
    Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 1990 (31 U.S.C. 
    1352) (the ``Byrd Amendment'') and the implementing regulations at 24 
    CFR part 87, the PHA must certify that no federally appropriated funds 
    have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the PHA for 
    influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any 
    agency, or a member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any 
    Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant or loan, the entering 
    into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, 
    renewal, amendment, or modifications of any Federal contract, grant, 
    loan, or cooperative agreement.
    9. Form SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
        Also in accordance with the Byrd Amendment and the regulations at 
    24 CFR part 87, the PHA must complete and submit Form SF-LLL if funds 
    other than federally appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid 
    by or on behalf of the PHA for influencing or attempting to influence 
    an officer or employee of any agency, or a member of Congress in 
    connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any 
    Federal grant or loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, 
    and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modifications 
    of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.
    10. Disclosure of Government Assistance and Identity of Interested 
    Parties (Form HUD 2880)
        The PHA must submit the Applicant/Recipient Disclosure/Update 
    Report (Form HUD-2880) in accordance with the requirements of 24 CFR 
    part 12, subpart C.
    11. Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS)
        Section 23 of the USHA requires PHAs that are awarded new public 
    housing units to implement an FSS program. Applicants must certify that 
    they will comply with 24 CFR part 962, which requires successful 
    applicants to initiate or expand an FSS program for the number of 
    families that equals the total number of units they have been awarded 
    (unless otherwise excepted).
    
    B. Applications for New Construction
    
        In accordance with section 6(h) of the USHA, new construction may 
    be engaged in only if the PHA demonstrates to the satisfaction of the 
    Secretary that the cost of new construction in the neighborhood where 
    the PHA determines the housing is needed is less than the cost of 
    acquisition or acquisition and rehabilitation in such neighborhood. 
    Therefore, every application for a new construction project 
    (conventional or turnkey) must be accompanied by either the information 
    described in paragraphs B.1 and B.3 of this section, or, at the 
    applicant's option, the information described in paragraphs B.2 and B.3 
    of this section:
        1. A PHA comparison of the costs of new construction (in the 
    neighborhood where the PHA proposes to construct the housing) and the 
    costs of acquisition of existing housing or rehabilitation in the same 
    neighborhood (including estimated costs of lead-based paint testing and 
    abatement); or
        2. A PHA certification, accompanied by supporting documentation, 
    that there is insufficient existing housing in the neighborhood to 
    develop housing through acquisition of existing housing or 
    rehabilitation; and
        3. A statement that:
        (a) Although the application is for new construction, the PHA will 
    accept acquisition of existing housing or rehabilitation, if HUD 
    determines the PHA cost comparison or certification of insufficient 
    housing does not support approval of new construction; or
        (b) The application is for new construction only. (In any such 
    case, if HUD cannot approve new construction under section 6(h) of the 
    USHA, the application will be rejected.)
    
    C. Replacement Housing Applications
    
    1. Cover Letter
        For both category 1 and category 2 applications, the cover letter 
    must state whether the demo/dispo or transfer/sale application (to 
    demolish/dispose of units, or to transfer/sell units) (hereinafter 
    referred to as the ``underlying application'') has been approved; the 
    date of approval; the project number and the name of the project being 
    replaced; and whether it is being replaced in whole or in part. If the 
    underlying application was not approved at the time the replacement 
    housing application is filed, the cover letter must state the date the 
    underlying application was submitted for consideration. Category 1 or 2 
    applications will not be funded unless the underlying application is 
    approved by the time funding selections are made.
    2. Section 5(j) Certification
        The PHA must certify that the units requested are specifically 
    required in FY 1994 either to meet the one-for-one replacement 
    requirement of section 18 of the USHA to replace public housing 
    demolition/disposition; or to meet the requirements of section 304(g) 
    of the USHA to replace existing public housing approved in FY 1994 or 
    earlier for homeownership transfer under HOPE 1, or for sale under 
    section 5(h) of the USHA.
    3. Replacement Application Under Section 18
        A PHA submitting a replacement housing application under section 18 
    (category 1) must demonstrate that the replacement units, alone or 
    together with other identified replacement units:
        a. Will implement the PHA's Replacement Housing Plan submitted and 
    approved under 24 CFR 970.11;
        b. Are for no fewer units (or portion thereof approved by HUD) than 
    the number of units to be demolished or disposed of; and
        c. Will house at least the same number of individuals and families 
    that could be served by the housing to be demolished or disposed.
    
    D. Applications for Units To Be Funded From Headquarters Reserve
    
    1. Cover Letter
        A PHA submitting a category 3 application shall identify the 
    purpose of the application (see section I.C.1 of this NOFA).
    2. Section 5(j) Certification
        The PHA must certify that the units requested are required to 
    comply with court orders or directions of the Secretary. Court orders 
    must be identified.
    
    E. ``Other'' Applications
    
        Applicants are encouraged to review the rating criteria (IV.E.) to 
    ensure rating factors have been addressed in the application. ``Curable 
    technical deficiencies'' (section IV.B. of this NOFA) relate only to 
    items that would not improve the substantive quality of applications 
    relative to rating factors. A PHA may file only one application per 
    locality under this category.
    1. Cover Letter
        Applicants for ``other'' public housing development units (category 
    4), must state whether they will accept fewer units than applied for. 
    Refusal to accept fewer units may result in an application not being 
    selected if funds are not sufficient for the full number of units.
    2. Section 5(j) Certification
        The PHA must certify to one of the following, pursuant to section 
    5(j) of the USHA (select E.2.a or E.2.b.):
        a. The units requested (limited to 100 or fewer) are needed for 
    family housing to satisfy demands not being met by the section 8 
    existing or voucher rental assistance programs; or
        b. 85 percent of the PHA's dwelling units (select (1), (2), or 
    (3)):
        (1) Are maintained in substantial compliance with the section 8 
    housing quality standards (24 CFR 882.109); or
        (2) Will be so maintained upon completion of modernization for 
    which funding has been awarded; or
        (3) Will be so maintained upon completion of modernization for 
    which applications are pending that have been submitted in good faith 
    under section 14 of the USHA (or a comparable State or local government 
    program), and that there is a reasonable expectation, as determined in 
    writing by HUD, that such application would be approvable; or will be 
    so maintained upon completion of modernization under the Comprehensive 
    Grant program.
    3. Funding Preference in Accordance With Section 6(p)
        Section 6(p) of the USHA requires HUD to provide a funding 
    preference for applications in areas with an inadequate supply of 
    housing for use by low-income families (i.e., a ``tight'' housing 
    rental market). The implementation of this preference shall be in 
    accordance with the process described in section V.A.2 of this NOFA.
        a. The PHA must furnish data relative to rental vacancy rates in 
    the market area where the project is proposed. This data should include 
    a description of the data sources and methods used to obtain survey 
    information. (It is recommended that PHAs consult with local community 
    development agencies relative to their housing needs before submitting 
    applications under this NOFA, since most of these agencies will have 
    participated in the development of a Comprehensive Housing 
    Affordability Strategy (CHAS).)
        b. Factors such as the following will provide evidence of 
    conditions which, when taken together, will demonstrate a pattern of 
    inadequate supply (generally, no one factor, taken alone, is 
    conclusive);
        (1) The current rental housing vacancy rate is at a low level 
    (typically six percent or lower) which results in housing not being 
    available for families seeking rental units (unless the housing market 
    area is not growing and, as a result, is experiencing low levels of 
    demand);
        (2) The annual production of rental housing units is insufficient 
    to meet the demand arising from the increase in households, or, where 
    there is little or no growth, is insufficient to meet the demand 
    arising from net losses to the available inventory;
        (3) The shortage of housing is resulting in rent increases 
    exceeding those increases commensurate with rental housing operating 
    costs; and
        (4) A significant number or proportion of section 8 certificate/
    voucher holders are unable to find adequate housing because of the 
    shortage of rental housing, as evidenced by PHA data showing a lower-
    than-average percentage of units under lease and a longer-than-average 
    time required to find units (typically, less than 85 percent lease up 
    within 60 days).
    4. Documentation to Demonstrate Need
        The PHA must submit documentation, such as waiting list description 
    or PHA vacancy rate data, to demonstrate need for the proposed public 
    housing, to assist the HUD Field Office in its determination of need 
    and market in accordance with section IV.C.8.b of this NOFA.
    5. Additional Rating Points
        Category 4 (other) applications may obtain additional rating points 
    (see section IV.E.8 of this NOFA) if the PHA furnishes additional data 
    regarding any of the following:
        a. ``Partnerships.'' PHAs are encouraged to form ``partnerships'' 
    consisting of cooperative or contractual arrangements with community-
    based entities for the purpose of developing housing so that the 
    housing fits into the community and is seen as an integral part of it. 
    ``Community-based entities'' include private non-profit or for-profit 
    entities with experience in the development of low and moderate income 
    housing, or that are skilled in the delivery of services to families 
    who are residents of public housing. ``Cooperative or contractual 
    arrangements'' include those that will facilitate development 
    (including management of the units) that will enhance the long-term 
    viability of the development; and those arrangements that the PHA has 
    for the delivery of services (such as child care, education, and 
    economic opportunities) made available to residents of public housing. 
    The PHA should indicate who the entity (or entities) are, the 
    qualifications of the entity and its principals, and the role they play 
    or will play in the development, management, or service delivery 
    process which will lead to better acceptance of public housing in the 
    community. Such cooperative arrangements require substantive 
    involvement by the non-PHA partner in at least one of the following 
    areas: Design, management, site selection, representation to the 
    community, or service delivery. If the PHA proposes to use public 
    housing development funds to pay an entity for its role in the 
    arrangement, a justification for sole-source contracting in accordance 
    with 24 CFR 85.36(d)(4) must be provided for consideration by HUD. With 
    respect to the delivery of services, costs for such services are not 
    eligible to be paid from public housing development funds. The PHA must 
    also certify that its selection of the cooperative entity (or entities) 
    was in compliance with State and local law.
    
        [Note: If State/local procurement requirements cannot be 
    complied with before the application deadline date, the PHA may 
    submit a statement with its application indicating that it is in the 
    process of arranging such a cooperative relationship and certifying 
    that such a relationship will comply with State and local law. In 
    such case, within 60 days of the date of publication of this NOFA, 
    the PHA must: (1) Identify the entity(ies) proposed to be part of 
    the cooperative relationship; (2) describe the qualifications of the 
    entity(ies) and of its principals, and the role they will play in 
    the development, management, or service delivery process that will 
    lead to better acceptance of public housing in the community; (3) 
    submit a justification for sole source contracting in accordance 
    with 24 CFR 85.36(d)(4) (if the PHA proposes to use public housing 
    development funds to pay the entity for its role in the cooperative 
    arrangement), and a certification that the selection of the 
    entity(ies) was in compliance with State and local law.]
    
        b. Mixed income development. In order to encourage the development 
    of public housing in metropolitan areas that will be less identifiable 
    as public housing, PHAs are encouraged to develop units whereby public 
    housing would be mixed with market-rate dwellings so that they are 
    indistinguishable. Specifically, in order to receive points for this 
    factor, a PHA must propose to acquire units in developments where the 
    units require incomes that, on average, are at or above 80 percent of 
    median, or to acquire sites in developments where the units require 
    incomes that, on average, are at or above 80 percent of median.
        c. Past compliance with section 3. The PHA may submit evidence that 
    over the past five years it has met any commitments made under the 
    provisions of section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 
    1968 (12 U.S.C., 1701u), as amended from time to time, and the 
    implementing regulations for section 3 at 24 CFR part 135. If the PHA 
    does not have development experience, it may instead submit evidence 
    related to such experience with the modernization program.
        d. Proposed compliance with section 3. The PHA may submit its goals 
    for complying with section 3 employment and training with regards to 
    the public housing development application.
        e. Support for local initiatives. If the application proposes a 
    project which, as evidenced by a letter from local officials, actively 
    supports an area of local initiative such as a Community Development 
    Block Grant, urban revitalization, Empowerment Zone/Enterprise 
    Community, or other similar local activity, or includes a commitment 
    for a donation to the project in the event it is selected for funding, 
    the PHA should describe the activity.
        f. Resident initiatives. If the PHA is working with residents to 
    establish and/or foster resident empowerment activities (such as 
    establishing Resident Corporations or Resident Management 
    Corporations), the activities should be described.
    
    F. Ineligible Applications
    
        Applications for intermediate care facilities and nursing homes may 
    not be approved under this NOFA. Applications for housing designated 
    for the disabled and for MROP activities will be the subject of 
    separate NOFAs and may not be applied for under this NOFA.
    
    IV. Field Office Processing of Applications
    
    A. Submission of Applications
    
        The cover letter of all applications must be marked with the date 
    and time of receipt, along with the initials of the Field Office 
    employee accepting the application. Applications received after the 
    date and time specified at the beginning of this NOFA will be returned 
    to the applicant. The PHA should obtain a ``Return receipt'' or similar 
    evidence of delivery when applications are delivered via other means 
    (U.S. Mail, private mailing firms, etc.).
    
    B. Initial Screening
    
        1. Immediately after the deadline for receipt of applications, the 
    Field Office will screen each application to determine whether all 
    information and exhibits have been submitted.
        a. If any application lacks any technical information or exhibit, 
    or contains a technical mistake, the PHA will be advised in writing and 
    will have 14 calendar days from the date of the issuance of HUD's 
    notification to deliver the missing or corrected information or 
    documentation to the Field Office.
        b. Curable technical deficiencies relate only to items that would 
    not improve the substantive quality of a category 4 application, 
    relative to the ranking factors.
        c. If Form HUD 52470 (Application) is missing, the PHA's 
    application will be considered substantively incomplete, and therefore 
    ineligible for further processing. If other forms are missing, such as 
    Form HUD 50070 (Drug Free Workplace Certification) or if there is a 
    technical mistake, such as no signature, or an unauthorized signatory 
    on a submitted form, the PHA will be given an opportunity to correct 
    the deficiency.
        2. An application that does not meet the applicable threshold and 
    NOFA requirements after the 14-day technical deficiency period will be 
    rejected from processing and determined to be unapprovable.
        3. Applications proposing housing in areas also served by the 
    Farmers Home Administration (FmHA) are subject to coordination with 
    FmHA to assure that assisted housing resources to be provided are not 
    duplicative. The State FmHA office shall be advised that an application 
    for public housing has been received and is being considered for 
    funding, and be provided an opportunity to comment on the application.
        4. The responsibility for submitting a complete application rests 
    with the PHA. The failure of the Field Office to identify and provide a 
    notice of deficiency to the PHA shall not relieve the PHA of the 
    consequences of failure to submit a complete application.
    
    C. Application Threshold Approvability
    
        After initial screening and upon expiration of the deficiency 
    ``cure'' period, complete applications will be examined for threshold 
    approvability. Applications that fail one or more of the threshold 
    criteria will be rejected from processing and determined to be 
    unapprovable. All applications for public housing development funds 
    must meet the following thresholds to be determined approvable:
        1. The PHA may not have any litigation pending which would preclude 
    approval of the application. The PHA must be legally eligible to 
    develop, own, and operate public housing under the USHA and have:
        a. Approved and current PHA organization documents;
        b. Local cooperation agreements to cover units under management, in 
    development, and the units requested (Form HUD 52481), and any other 
    required local authority;
        c. A properly executed and complete PHA Resolution (Form HUD 
    52471), referring to the need for front-end funding, if requested, and 
    a Local Governing Body Resolution (HUD 52472) which approves the 
    request for front-end funds, if front-end funds are requested.
    
        (Note: By executing the PHA Resolution, the PHA certifies that 
    it will comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act 
    (42 U.S.C. 12131) and the implementing regulation at 28 CFR part 35. 
    The PHA Resolution also certifies to the PHA's intent to comply with 
    all requirements of 24 CFR part 941. These requirements include: 
    Nondiscrimination under the applicable civil rights laws; the 
    requirements imposed by the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real 
    Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (URA) (42 U.S.C. 4601-
    4655); the accessibility requirements of section 504 of the 
    Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) and HUD's implementing 
    regulations at 24 CFR part 8; and section 3 of the Housing and Urban 
    Development Act of 1968, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701u), and HUD's 
    implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 135.)
    
        2. The category of application is eligible under this NOFA (see 
    section II.B of this NOFA).
        3. If new construction (conventional or turnkey) has been applied 
    for, the PHA has provided a cost comparison or a certification with 
    documentation (see section III.B. of this NOFA), and has stated what is 
    to be done with the application if new construction is not approvable.
        4. No application shall be determined to be approvable if the PHA 
    has failed to return excess advances received during development or 
    modernization, or amounts determined by HUD to constitute excess 
    financing based on a HUD-approved Actual Development Cost Certificate 
    (ADCC) or Actual Modernization Cost Certificate (AMCC), unless HUD has 
    approved a pay-back plan.
        5. There are no environmental factors, such as sewer moratoriums, 
    precluding development in the requested locality.
        6. The following certifications are included in the application and 
    have been executed by the appropriate person(s):
        a. Form HUD-50070, Drug-Free Workplace;
        b. Form HUD-50071, Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans and 
    Cooperative Agreements;
        c. Form SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities, if applicable;
        d. Form HUD-2880, Applicant/Recipient Disclosure/Update Report;
        e. FSS certification;
        f. Section 5(j) certification appropriate to the category of 
    application.
        7. The PHA must be in compliance with civil rights laws and equal 
    opportunity requirements. A PHA will be considered to be in compliance 
    if:
        a. As a result of formal administrative proceedings, there are no 
    outstanding findings of noncompliance with civil rights laws unless the 
    PHA is operating in compliance with a HUD-approved compliance agreement 
    designed to correct the areas(s) of noncompliance;
        b. There is no adjudication of a civil rights violation in a civil 
    action brought against it by a private individual, unless the applicant 
    demonstrates that it is operating in compliance with a court order 
    designed to correct the area(s) of noncompliance;
        c. There is no deferral of Federal funding based upon civil rights 
    violations;
        d. There is no pending civil rights suit brought against the PHA by 
    the Department of Justice; or
        e. There is no unresolved charge of discrimination against the PHA 
    issued by the Secretary under section 810(g) of the Fair Housing Act, 
    as implemented by 24 CFR 103.400.
        8. For ``other'' applications only:
        a. The Field Office must determine that the PHA has or will have 
    the capability to develop and manage the proposed housing. The Field 
    Office shall determine capability based upon the PHA's overall score 
    under the Public Housing Management Assessment Program (PHMAP) (see 24 
    CFR part 901), the PHA's most recent fiscal audit, and outstanding HUD 
    monitoring findings. A PHA shall not be determined to lack 
    administrative or development capability simply because it has no 
    recent experience in developing or managing public/assisted housing.
        b. The Field Office must determine that there is a need and a 
    market for the proposed household type and bedroom sizes, taking into 
    consideration the documentation submitted by the PHA on housing supply 
    and demonstration of need, any local plans, and other assisted housing 
    (e.g., HUD or FmHA) existing and proposed (including housing funded but 
    not completed).
    
    D. Threshold Approvable Applications
    
        Applications in categories 1, 2, and 3 will be determined 
    approvable if they successfully pass the threshold review. Threshold-
    approvable applications in category 4 (``other'') will be reviewed and 
    analyzed by the Field Office.
    
    E. ``Other'' Development Applications
    
        Threshold approvable ``Other'' applications will have points 
    assigned by a Rating Panel(s) on the basis of Field Office analysis and 
    PHA documentation relating to the following criteria. 
    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              Criteria                               Points 
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    1. Relative need. The application proposes a project for a              
     locality which has been previously under-funded for the                
     household type (family or elderly) requested, relative to              
     the need for housing for the same household type in the                
     respective metropolitan or non-metropolitan portion of the             
     Field Office's jurisdiction. [Select (a), (b) or (c)]:                 
        (a) Housing need in the locality specified in the                   
         application has been severely under-funded. (A locality            
         with a percentage of need served that is equal to or               
         less than one-half the Field Office percentage will be             
         determined to be severely under-funded.) or.............         20
        (b) Housing need in the locality specified in the                   
         application has received a proportionate share of                  
         funding or has been moderately under-funded. (A locality           
         with a percentage of need served that is equal to or               
         less than the Field Office percentage, but greater than            
         one-half that percentage will be determined to be                  
         moderately under-funded.) or............................         10
        (c) Housing need in the locality specified in the                   
         application has been over-funded. (A locality with a               
         percentage that is greater than the Field Office                   
         percentage will be determined to have been over-funded.)          0
    2. Vacancy rate. Select (a) or (b):                                     
        (a) The vacancy rate in public housing projects under               
         management is not greater than 5 percent, indicating               
         that the PHA will and can fully utilize the units for              
         which it applied; or....................................         20
        (b) The vacancy rate in public housing projects under               
         management is greater than 5 percent but less than 6               
         percent (or two units if that is greater)...............         10
    3. Large-family housing. The application is for a project               
     comprising 51 percent or more three bedroom or larger units.         20
    4. Relocation. The proposed project would primarily assist              
     households displaced or to be displaced by Federal action or           
     a natural disaster in a federally declared disaster area....         10
    5. Low density family housing. The application proposes                 
     scattered site development to expand housing opportunities..         10
    6. PHA development experience.\1\ [Select (a), (b), or (c)]:            
        (a) The PHA scored at least 90 percent (``A'') in                   
         Indicator 12 (Development) of PHMAP or..................         20
        (b) The PHA's latest PHMAP score for Indicator 12                   
         (Development) is between 80 and 89 percent; or the Field           
         Office has no information on the PHA's previous                    
         development experience to rate the PHA under paragraph             
         (a) above; however, the application demonstrates the               
         capability for, and the expectation of, expeditious                
         quality or other development experience, or submitted a            
         development management contract with an experienced PHA)           
         or......................................................         15
        (c) The PHA's latest PHMAP score for Indicator 12                   
         (Development) is between 60 and 79 percent; or the PHA             
         has no development experience under either paragraph (1)           
         or (2) above, but the PHA has evidenced staff capability           
         and organization that demonstrates the PHA has the                 
         capability for, and the expectation of, expeditious                
         quality development or has submitted a proposed                    
         development management contract.........................          5
    7. PHA management experience.\2\ (Select (a), (b), or (c)):             
        (a) The PHA's latest PHMAP score (excluding development)            
         is 90 percent or better; and there were no Inspector               
         General audit findings during the PHA's last fiscal                
         audit; and there are no outstanding HUD monitoring                 
         findings or.............................................         20
        (b) The PHA's latest PHMAP score (excluding development)            
         is between 80 and 89; and Inspector General audit                  
         findings (if any) have been addressed; and outstanding             
         HUD monitoring findings have been resolved or...........         10
        (c) Choose (1) or (2):                                              
            (1) The PHA's latest PHMAP score (excluding                     
             development) is between 60 and 79; and Inspector               
             General audit findings (if any) have been addressed;           
             and outstanding HUD monitoring findings have been              
             resolved or.........................................          5
            (2) The PHA has no public housing in management, but            
             has management experience in the section 8 program             
             and management reviews or inspector General audit              
             findings (if any) are being addressed satisfactorily          5
    8. Other criteria. (Select any that apply.):                            
        (a) The PHA indicated that it has formed a                          
         ``partnership'' (i.e., a cooperative relationship) with            
         an entity that will play a substantive role in design,             
         management, selection, or representation to the                    
         community; or the PHA has submitted evidence that it has           
         formed a ``partnership'' with an entity that plays a               
         substantive role in the delivery of services and that              
         these services will be available to residents of the               
         project under development...............................          5
        (b) The PHA has certified that it will acquire units in             
         developments where the non-public housing units require            
         incomes that, on average, are at or above 80 percent of            
         median, or that it will acquire sites in developments              
         where the units require incomes that, on average, are at           
         or above 80 percent of median...........................          5
        (c) The PHA has submitted evidence that over the past               
         five years it has met any commitments made under the               
         provisions of section 3 of the Housing and Urban                   
         Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C., 1701u), as amended             
         from time to time, and the implementing regulations for            
         section 3 at 24 CFR part 135. If the PHA does not have             
         development experience, it may instead submit evidence             
         related to its experience with the modernization program          5
        (d) The PHA has submitted its goals for complying with              
         section 3 employment and training with regards to this             
         application.............................................          5
        (e) The application proposes a project which, as                    
         evidenced by a letter from local officials, actively               
         supports an area of local initiative such as a Community           
         Development Block Grant, urban revitalization,                     
         Enterprise Zone, or other similar local activity, or               
         includes a commitment for a donation to the project in             
         the event it is selected for funding....................         15
        (f) The Field Office, based on documentation submitted by           
         the PHA, has determined that the PHA is working with               
         residents to establish and/or foster resident                      
         empowerment activities (such as establishing Resident              
         Corporations or Resident Management Corporations).......          5
                                                                  ----------
            Total Possible Points................................        160
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\The Department reserves the right to require contracted oversight of 
      the administration of the project's development where it deems        
      necessary.                                                            
    \2\The Department reserves the right to require contracted oversight of 
      the administration of the project implementation where it deems       
      necessary.                                                            
    
    F. Field Office Reports
    
    1. Category 1, 2, and 3 Applications
        Each Field Office shall forward its lists (by category) of fair-
    share exempt threshold-approvable applications to Headquarters within 
    two weeks of the deficiency ``cure'' period. The lists shall include 
    the project number, total number of units and units by bedroom size, 
    structure type(s), cost areas, funding required and the metropolitan/
    non-metropolitan designations for each application. Category 1 and 2 
    applications shall also identify the underlying project and its current 
    status (e.g., approved (date), under review in Field Office, etc.).
    2. Category 4
        All Field Office reports to Rating Panels on threshold-approvable 
    ``other'' applications shall be submitted within four weeks of the 
    deficiency ``cure'' period and include the information described in 
    F.1., above, the analysis of each application, and Field Office 
    recommendations for funding.
    
    V. Rating Panels
    
    A. Rating Panels
    
    1. General
        The Rating Panel(s) shall ensure that all category 4 applications 
    have been properly determined to be threshold-approvable. The Rating 
    Panel(s) shall compile data furnished by Field Offices for category 4 
    (other) applications, and rate each application based on Field Office 
    analyses, comments, and recommendations.
        A list of rated applications shall be forwarded to Headquarters, 
    with copies of Field Office reviews and recommendations, and 
    justifications for Rating Panel rankings. Headquarters shall not modify 
    ratings of category 4 (``other'') applications unless a gross error has 
    occurred.
        Examples of ``gross errors'' include, but are not limited to, 
    errors in calculating the vacancy rate in the proposed community, or 
    assigning points for development/management experience based on a PHMAP 
    score that was successfully appealed, or simple errors of arithmetic.
        Changes in ratings shall be fully documented, and a copy of the 
    memorandum authorizing the change (and the basis thereof) shall be sent 
    to the Rating Panel and to the Field Office for inclusion in the file 
    and be made available for public inspection. Category 4 applications 
    shall be approved within Areas, to the extent fair share funds are 
    assigned, as follows:
    2. ``Tight Market'' Determination
        Headquarters will separate ``other'' applications (category 4) on 
    the basis of ``tight rental housing market'' and Rating Panel ratings 
    and Headquarters rankings, and approve them (in the following order) to 
    the extent fair share funds are assigned to their respective Area:
        a. Applications within the same Area in tight rental housing 
    markets which receive 80 or more rating points;
        b. All other applications in the same Area, in rank order, 
    depending on ``metropolitan'' or ``non-metropolitan'' funding 
    available.
    
    B. Reservation of Funds
    
        Funds will be reserved in an amount equal to the total development 
    cost limit for the number, structure type, and size of units being 
    approved, ``trended'' to take into consideration the anticipated cost 
    of construction at the time the construction/rehabilitation contract is 
    expected to be executed; acquisition reservations will be trended to 
    take into account anticipated cost variations between fund reservation 
    and Date of Full Availability (DOFA). The trend shall be calculated by 
    multiplying the project total development cost limit by 6 percent 
    (1.06), rounded to the nearest $50. No amendment funds will be 
    available for these projects in the future.
    
    C. Partial Funding
    
        Partial funding of highly ranked ``other'' applications within an 
    Area may occur (so long as such projects are determined viable and the 
    PHA has indicated willingness to accept fewer units) to facilitate the 
    funding in rank order of additional applications for highly ranked 
    projects.
    
    VI. Checklist of Application Submission Requirements--All Programs
    
    A. Submission Requirements
    
        PHAs may use the following application checklist, which enumerates 
    the submission requirements of section III of this NOFA.
        1. Cover letter.
        2. Form HUD 52470, Application for Public Housing Development;
        3. Evidence of legal eligibility (if not previously evidenced) with 
    a current General Certificate (HUD 9009);
        4. Evidence that the number of units in management, in development, 
    and being requested in this application are covered by Cooperation 
    Agreements (HUD 52481) and any other State/local requirements have been 
    met;
        5. HUD 52471, PHA Resolution in Support of Public Housing;
        6. HUD 52472, Local Governing Body Resolution, if front-end funds 
    are being requested by the PHA. (Note: If front-end funds are 
    requested, the HUD 52471 must be appropriately modified. See section 
    III.A.6. of this NOFA);
        7. PHA statement identifying its funding preferences if more than 
    one application is being submitted for category 4 (see section II.B of 
    NOFA).
    
        (Note, however, that no more than one application per locality 
    may be filed under category 4.);
    
        8. PHA statement whether it will accept fewer ``other'' units than 
    applied for (category 4);
        9. HUD 50070, PHA Certification for a Drug-Free Workplace;
        10. HUD-50071, Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans and 
    Cooperative Agreements;
        11. Form SF-LLL, Byrd Amendment Disclosure and Certification 
    Regarding Lobbying, only if the applicant determines it is applicable;
        12. Form HUD 2880, Disclosure of Government Assistance and Identity 
    of Interested Parties;
        13. Section 5(j) certification appropriate to the category of 
    application;
        14. Evidence of inadequate housing supply (i.e., a ``tight'' rental 
    housing market), for category 4 (``Other'') units;
        15. Evidence (such as waiting list information or PHA vacancy rate 
    data) of need and market for the units requested for category 4 
    applications;
        16. Section 6(h) cost comparison justification, if new construction 
    is requested;
        17. FSS program certification;
        18. Replacement housing exhibits, if applicable (see section 
    III.C).
        19. (Optional) For ``other'' applications, documentation to address 
    the rating factors (see section IV.E.).
    
    B. Application Packets
    
        Forms comprising the application package may be obtained from the 
    HUD Field Office.
    
    VII. Other Matters
    
    A. Environmental Impact
    
        A Finding of No Significant Impact with respect to the environment 
    has been made in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 50, 
    implementing section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act 
    of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332). The Finding of No Significant Impact is 
    available for public inspection and copying between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 
    p.m. weekdays at the Office of the Rules Docket Clerk, 451 Seventh 
    Street SW., room 10276, Washington, DC 20410.
    
    B. Federalism
    
        The General Counsel, as the Designated Official under section 6(a) 
    of Executive Order 12612, Federalism, has determined that this NOFA 
    will not have substantial, direct effects on States, on their political 
    subdivisions, or on their relationship with the Federal government, or 
    on the distribution of power and responsibilities between them and 
    other levels of government. The NOFA will provide PHAs with funding for 
    public housing development.
    
    C. Family Impact
    
        The General Counsel, as the Designated Official for Executive Order 
    12606, the Family, has determined that the provisions of this NOFA do 
    not have the potential for significant impact on family formation, 
    maintenance and general well-being within the meaning of the Order. To 
    the extent that the funding provided through this NOFA results in 
    additional or improved housing, the effects on the family will be 
    beneficial.
    
    D. Prohibition Against Lobbying Activities: The Byrd Amendment
    
        The use of funds awarded under this NOFA is subject to the 
    disclosure requirements and prohibitions of section 319 of the 
    Department of Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 
    Fiscal Year 1990 (31 U.S.C. 1352) and the implementing regulations at 
    24 CFR part 87. (See section II of this NOFA.) These authorities 
    prohibit recipients of Federal contracts, grants, or loans from using 
    appropriated funds for lobbying the Executive or Legislative Branches 
    of the Federal Government in connection with a specific contract, 
    grant, or loan. The prohibition also covers the awarding of contracts, 
    grants, cooperative agreements, or loans unless the recipient has made 
    an acceptable certification regarding lobbying. Under 24 CFR part 87, 
    applicants, recipients, and sub-recipients of assistance exceeding 
    $100,000 must certify that no Federal funds have been or will be spent 
    on lobbying activities in connection with the assistance.
    
    E. Prohibition Against Lobbying of HUD Personnel
    
        Section 13 of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act 
    (42 U.S.C. 3537b) contains two provisions dealing with efforts to 
    influence HUD's decisions with respect to financial assistance. The 
    first imposes disclosure requirements on those who are typically 
    involved in these efforts--those who pay others to influence the award 
    of assistance or the taking of a management action by the Department 
    and those who are paid to provide the influence. The second restricts 
    the payment of fees to those who are paid to influence the award of HUD 
    assistance, if the fees are tied to the number of housing units 
    received or are based on the amount of assistance received, or if they 
    are contingent upon the receipt of assistance.
        HUD's regulation implementing section 13 is codified at 24 CFR part 
    86. If readers are involved in any efforts to influence the Department 
    in these ways, they are urged to read the final rule, particularly the 
    examples contained in appendix A of the rule. Appendix A of this rule 
    contains examples of activities covered by this rule.
    
    F. Section 112 of the HUD Reform Act of 1989
    
        A final rule published in the Federal Register on September 7, 
    1993, amended the definition of ``person'' to exclude from coverage a 
    State or local government, or the officer or employee of a State or 
    local government or housing finance agency thereof who is engaged in 
    the official business of the State or local government.
        Any questions concerning the rule should be directed to the Office 
    of Ethics, room 2158, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 
    Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC 20410. Telephone: (202) 708-3815 
    (voice/TDD). This is not a toll-free number. Forms necessary for 
    compliance with the rule may be obtained from the local HUD office.
    
    G. Prohibition Against Advance Disclosure of Funding Decisions
    
        Section 103 of the HUD Reform Act proscribes the communication of 
    certain information by HUD employees to persons not authorized to 
    receive that information during the selection process for the award of 
    assistance. HUD's regulation implementing section 103 is codified at 24 
    CFR part 4. HUD employees involved in the review of applications and in 
    the making of funding decisions are restrained by 24 CFR part 4 from 
    providing advance information to any person (other than an authorized 
    employee of HUD) concerning funding decisions, or from otherwise giving 
    any applicant an unfair competitive advantage. Persons who apply for 
    assistance in this competition should confine their inquiries to the 
    subject areas permitted by 24 CFR part 4. Applicants who have questions 
    should contact the HUD Office of Ethics (202) 708-3815 (voice/TDD). 
    (This is not a toll-free number.)
    
    H. Accountability in the Provision of HUD Assistance
    
        HUD's regulations at 24 CFR part 12 implement section 102 of the 
    HUD Reform Act. Section 102 contains a number of provisions designed to 
    ensure greater accountability and integrity in the provision of certain 
    types of assistance administered by HUD. The following requirements 
    concerning documentation and public access disclosures are applicable 
    to assistance awarded under this NOFA.
    1. Documentation and Public Access
        HUD will ensure that documentation and other information regarding 
    each application submitted pursuant to this NOFA are sufficient to 
    indicate the basis upon which assistance was provided or denied. This 
    material, including any letters of support, will be made available for 
    public inspection for a five-year period beginning not less than 30 
    days after the award of the assistance. Material will be made available 
    in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) and 
    HUD's implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 15. In addition, HUD will 
    include the recipients of assistance pursuant to this NOFA in its 
    quarterly Federal Register notice of all recipients of HUD assistance 
    awarded on a competitive basis. (See 24 CFR 12.14(a) and 12.16(b), and 
    the notice published in the Federal Register on January 16, 1992 (57 FR 
    1942), for further information on these requirements.)
    2. Disclosures
        HUD will make available to the public for five years all applicant 
    disclosure reports (HUD Form 2880) submitted in connection with this 
    NOFA. Update reports (also Form 2880) will be made available along with 
    the applicant disclosure reports, but in no case for a period of less 
    than three years. All reports, both applicant disclosures and updates, 
    will be made available in accordance with the Freedom of Information 
    Act (5 U.S.C. 552) and HUD's implementing regulations at 24 CFR part 
    15. (See 24 CFR subpart C, and the notice published in the Federal 
    Register on January 16, 1992 (52 FR 1942), for further information on 
    these disclosure requirements.)
    
        Dated: May 17, 1994.
    Joseph Shuldiner,
    Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing.
    [FR Doc. 94-12565 Filed 5-23-94; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 4210-33-P