Jo Ann Ruark

This document details Substantial Amendment #1 to the City of Chester's HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, which outlines the reprogramming of HOME-ARP funds. The amendment reallocates unused funds from Supportive Services and Non-profit Operating primarily to the Development of Affordable Rental Housing. It also updates preferences for assisted rental housing, prioritizing disabled individuals at risk of homelessness and seniors (62+) who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The plan emphasizes addressing the significant need for affordable housing and supportive services for various qualifying populations within the City of Chester.

Key discussions and actions included the unanimous approval of the Financial Reports for the period ending December 12, 2025. The Board approved Change Order No. 2 to CDBG Demolition Contract No. 53 with Victory Gardens, Inc., resulting in a reduction of $10,005.00 to the contract amount. Change Order No. 3 to the Crozer Park Trail Construction Contract with JMC Contractors, Inc. was also approved, resulting in a net increase of $10,607.00 to that contract. The Executive Director provided updates on the Chester Creek Trail Connector Design Project, the graduation of the first Jumpstart Chester Program class, the Grace Manor Groundbreaking, and the status of CDBG/HOME Applications for Fiscal Year 2026 funding. Board members discussed facility matters, including the Sun Village Pavilion Roof Project and the rehabilitation status of Chester Park bathrooms. Additionally, the board received information regarding the Immaculate Heart of Mary property status, housing initiatives for the disabled via Liberty Housing Development Corporation, and the Chester Ministerium's Kingdom Connect Initiative.

Key discussions included the approval of the 2026 Board Meeting Schedule, which sets meetings for the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in Chester City Hall. The Board also approved a resolution to update authorized check signers for WSFS Bank accounts. Additionally, the Board ratified Change Order No. 2 to the 2024 Road Program -- Resurfacing Contract with A. F. Damon, Inc., adjusting quantities and adding supplemental work for manhole and inlet repairs at Remington and Johnson Streets, resulting in a net increase to the contract. The Board approved accepting a proposal and executing an engineering contract with MG Engineering Associates, LLC for oversight of Demolition Contract No. 54 and another proposal and contract for oversight of the 2025 Road Program project, both through the CDBG Program. The Executive Director reported on the successful groundbreaking for the Grace Manor Affordable Housing Project, a recent tree planting initiative involving the 9th Street YCC, and the graduation of the first cohort from the Jumpstart Chester Program.

The Board addressed several action items during the meeting. Approvals included the Financial Reports for the period ending October 20, 2025. The Board unanimously approved the transfer of ownership for the Birchwood at Pentecostal Square project to MRK Partners, contingent upon required documentation and recordation. The Board also approved accepting a proposal from MG Engineering Associates, LLC for the Chester Park Bandshell Improvements Project, contingent upon environmental review and necessary CDBG Action Plan amendments. Authorization was granted to transfer the properties at 1317 and 1319 Honan Street to the Chester Redevelopment Authority to facilitate their redevelopment. Furthermore, the Board approved Amendment No. 3 to the Professional Services Contract with David M. Collins concerning CDBG, HOME, and HOME-ARP Program technical assistance, increasing the rate and total compensation. Change Order No. 1 for CDBG Demolition Contract No. 53 with Victory Gardens, Inc. was approved to add the construction of an exterior party wall at 221 Jeffrey Street. Change Order No. 2 for the Crozer Park Trail Project was approved to add tree removal, site clean-up, fence substitution, and new tree installations. Finally, Amendment No. 1 to the Engineering Services Agreement with MG Engineering Associates, LLC was approved to cover inspection services previously anticipated from the City for the Crozer Park Trail Project. The Executive Director also provided updates on the upcoming groundbreaking for the Grace Manor Affordable Housing Project, a tree planting event, the availability of technical assistance for public lands, and the progress of the Jumpstart Chester Program.

The Chester Economic Development Authority Board of Directors convened to discuss several key items. The board approved the F.Y. 2025 CEDA/CRA Combined Administrative Budget. They authorized the Executive Director to bind the insurance coverages as quoted for the period July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. The board approved the Cooperation Agreement with the City contingent upon City Council's approval and the HOME Agreement with Chester Community Improvement Project for the Grace Manor Affordable Housing Development Project. The Executive Director reported on the Homebuyer and Homeowner Fair, the Workshop conducted by the Widener Small Business Development Center, and a meeting with the new HUD Community Planning and Development Director. There was also a discussion about the development of a micro hospital in Chester and funding opportunities.