Over the past decade, many communities in Westchester have shown that partnerships between local government, non-profit and for-profit housing developers, community leaders and private financial institutions can create attractive, successful developments that serve residents and are an asset to the broader community. STEP 1: The local community sets the framework for meeting its affordable housing obligation It is the local community that determines how affordable housing is developed within its boundaries. The needs of the community, available funding, potential sites and the local housing and development policies set the framework in which any housing proposal is considered. Housing needs assessment: As part of ensuring the continued vitality of its community, each locality should regularly review whether people of all income levels can meet their housing needs in its jurisdictions. Often community housing boards or local non-profit or faith based housing organizations are helpful in determining a local community’s housing needs. Land use and requirements: Each community establishes its own general master plan, zoning ordinances, codes, housing policies, requirements and standards. These policies reflect anticipated community concerns about new developments, set guidelines for appearance, traffic, parking, the size and density of a building, and the materials used in construction and should provide incentives for developers of affordable housing. Available Assistance: Westchester County provides planning, technical and financial assistance to local governments and private agencies willing to develop affordable housing within their communities using unique models tailored to their needs. County-wide not-for-profit organizations are also available to provide technical assistance in locating available funding, in building a quality development team and in developing appropriate site plans STEP 2: The community and a developer partner in defining, reviewing and approving a concept and locating an appropriate site. Process: Often, local government invites proposals from experienced developers to meet an identified need. Sometimes, a local community-based developer formulates a project with the local government. In most cases, the developer will perform some early design work, financial feasibility calculations, and other analysis to make sure the concept is sound before publicizing the idea broadly. Review: The local government reviews the proposal to ensure that it meets the community’s requirements and policies. At this stage, planning, zoning and environmental review boards provide input and may recommend revisions to meet local requirements. Community Input: The development team often meets with community leaders and neighbors to receive input during the planning process. Generally, a single development will be presented at two or three separate public hearings where community residents have an opportunity to provide input. Revision: Input from concerned individuals, local property owners, and community groups who participated in public review processes and from local review boards are considered by the development team. Revisions are made to respond to valid concerns, improve the proposal and satisfy all legal requirements.
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