The Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD) recommends approval of a Mutual Aid Agreement between the City of Houston and the Houston Housing Authority (HHA). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide partial funding for the operation of the Rapid Rehousing Financial Assistance Intermediary (FAI). The FAI assisted those households affected by Hurricane Harvey by providing rental assistance, rental and utility deposits, and utility payments to those living in non-congregant shelter from September 2017 through May 2018.
Hurricane Harvey made landfall on Friday, August 25, 2017, between Port Aransas and Port O'Connor, Texas as a category 4 hurricane. Its devastating effects soon began to impact Houston. Hurricane Harvey caused catastrophic flooding, other severe weather, and hazardous conditions. Hurricane Harvey also presented an imminent threat to public health and safety and resulted in the displacement of numerous individuals and families who were placed at emergency shelters established in various locations across the City, including the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Toyota Center.
HHA delivered the following program services: (1) management of the Houston/Harris County Continuum of Care Rapid Rehousing Collaborative financial assistance funds, and (2) operation of direct rental and utility assistance to 334 families affected by Hurricane Harvey.
The services associated with this Inter-Jurisdictional Agreement were provided September 1, 2017 through May 25, 2018. FEMA funding under this agreement will be from September 1, 2017 through May 25, 2018. City Council is requested to authorize and approve this Mutual Aid Agreement through the Inter-Jurisdictional Agreement.
No fiscal note is required on grant items.
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Tom McCasland, Director