DRAFT VERSION-PUBLISHED March 27, 2023 Comment Accepted through April 28, 2023 - Office of Community Development 3/27/23
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2023 CITY OF WESTFIELD
CDBG ACTION PLAN
DRAFT VERSION- PUBLISHED March 27, 2023
Comment Accepted through April 28, 2023
Office of Community
3/27/23 (413) 572-6246
DevelopmentExecutive Summary
AP-05 Executive Summary - 91.200(c), 91.220(b)
1. Introduction
The City of Westfield, through its Office of Community Development, is charged with ensuring an
environment where residents and businesses can thrive, balancing neighborhood vitality and
stabilization, economic opportunity, a range of housing options, and support for public services to the
City’s low-to-moderate income households.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investments Partnership Program are two
federally funded programs administered by the Department in order to provide economic opportunity
to Westfield families and residents. Eight of the City’s 26 census block groups meet HUD’s threshold for
qualification as low-moderate income neighborhoods. Citywide, 42% of Westfield residents are
classified as low-moderate income according to the American Community Survey. In our downtown
census tract (8127.02), more than 63% of families are classified as low-or-moderate income.
A primary challenge for Westfield centers on income disparities between the City’s older neighborhoods
in the City’s historic center area and its outlying neighborhoods. The City’s central neighborhoods
contain a much older stock of housing and many more non-English speaking households. The one outlier
to this statement is Census Tract 8125, Block Group 4, which is in the Hampton Ponds neighborhood on
the City’s northeast corner, abutting Holyoke and Southampton. This neighborhood has an aging
housing stock and is made up of many formerly seasonal homes that have been converted to year-round
residences.
Westfield is an entitlement community, which means that it receives an annual allocation of CDBG
federal funds to carry out economic development, housing, and neighborhood stabilization activities.
The City anticipates approximately $382,863 in CDBG funds in 2023, based upon a March
communication from the US Department of Housing & Urban Development. This represents a 4.07%
increase in funding as compared to the 2022 Program Year.
Westfield is a member of the Holyoke-Chicopee-Westfield HOME Consortium, and the City expects a
suballocation of $153,877.15 in 2023 for HOME program activities. The HOME Program is detailed in the
Action Plan for the City of Holyoke, which serves as Consortium lead. Westfield plans to issue a Request
for Proposals to develop affordable rental housing in Summer 2023.
The 2023 Action Plan represents the fourth year of our five-year Consolidated Plan, which was drafted
following an extensive public outreach program and approved by HUD, in 2020.
Annual Action Plan 1
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)2. Summarize the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan
This could be a restatement of items or a table listed elsewhere in the plan or a reference to
another location. It may also contain any essential items from the housing and homeless needs
assessment, the housing market analysis or the strategic plan.
The Citizen Participation process informed this plan by identifying the following objectives and desired
outcomes from CDBG-eligible activities:
Providing funding assistance to non-profit agencies that provide services and nutritional
programs to aid in alleviating food insecurity to eligible Westfield residents
Housing Affordability
Utilize Public Service funding supports the most vulnerable populations including frail elders,
youth living in poverty, and homeless and at-risk households, and disabled individuals.
Substance Abuse/ Mental Health Services
Support for activities to increase educational levels and job readiness that improve access to
employment for lower income persons and persons with special needs
Transportation needs
Offer technical assistance and funding for entrepreneurs seeking to establish a new
microenterprise or business, and for owners who seek to strengthen or expand upon their
existing small business
Improving neighborhoods by investing in public infrastructure, including parks and playground
improvements
Providing economic opportunity for low-and-moderate income families through support of job
creation and retention programs and assistance to income-qualified microenterprises
Addressing issues of blight in the Westfield community
3. Evaluation of past performance
This is an evaluation of past performance that helped lead the grantee to choose its goals or
projects.
This plan remains consistent with the goals of the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan, as amended in August
2022, and the priorities were identified based upon the progress made toward meeting the goals of the
Consolidated Plan.
In 2022, Westfield has worked to advance larger projects to address its challenge to expend CDBG
resources in a timely manner. Following the COVID pandemic and extensive efforts to expend one-time
funding received through the CDBG-CARES Act allocation in 2020, the City lacked capacity to advance
other CDBG projects. The City is working to commit resources to eligible activities and move them
toward completion. Those projects, which were included in previous action plans, include the
Annual Action Plan 2
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)rehabilitation of Hampton Ponds Playground, replacement of sidewalks on Belmont Street and Sibley
Avenue, and the replacement of doors at the Greater Westfield Boys & Girls Club to make them
handicapped-accessible.
The City is proposing to reprogram certain resources from prior years as well through an amendment to
the 2022 Action Plan that was published concurrently with the 2023 Action Plan. The reallocation is
summarized below, and these resources can be found in the CARRYOVER FROM PRIOR YEAR.
4. Summary of Citizen Participation Process and consultation process
Summary from citizen participation section of plan.
The City of Westfield, through its Department of Community Development, works with municipal
agencies as well as local non-profit and service organizations to obtain citizen input into its annual
planning process. Specifically, the team works with the Department of Public Works, the Office of the
City Engineer, the Council on Aging, the Planning Department, and the Police Department in identifying
eligible projects that would benefit from federal assistance.
In accordance with 24CFR Part 91 Subpart B, the City of Westfield conducted two public hearings during
the development of the Action Plan. The first public hearing was held on Tuesday, January 24th at 11:00
am and the second one on the same day at 6:00 pm. These public hearings summarized the CDBG
program, explaining the concepts of National Objective and Eligible Activities as well as a summary of
the City’s Five-Year Consolidated Plan to determine if any changes needed to be made. It was
determined that no changes would be made to the Consolidated Plan.
A Notice of Availability of Funding was published on December 19th, 2022 in The Westfield News.
Proposals were due to the City on Friday, March 3, 2023. Proposals were reviewed for eligibility,
organizational capacity, and response to community need. Most proposals met those threshold criteria.
A secondary review consisted of an evaluation of prior year contract compliance, prior year
performance, and availability of funds.
A notice was published in the The Westfield News on Friday, March 24, 2023 and posted with the Office
of the City Clerk and on the City website on the same date announcing the draft action plan. The notice
was posted in English, Spanish, and Russian with the City Clerk.
Further, the translated notice was mailed to the Westfield Spanish-American Association, the Full
Gospel Church, the New Life Christian Center, and the Russian Evangelical Baptist Church in an effort to
reach out to non-English speaking communities.
Annual Action Plan 3
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Lastly, the translated notice was posted in the City’s public street kiosk at 84 Main Street and the
Westfield Athenaeum.
The community was invited to attend a public hearing scheduled for Wednesday, April 26, 2023 to
provide feedback. The Action Plan was made available at the Office of Planning and Community
Development and posted on the web at www.cityofwestfield.org. The draft plan was made a public
document on April 25, 2023. This publication began the 30-day public hearing process. This public
hearing provided additional opportunity for public input and comment and was held following the
confirmed allocations from HUD.
5. Summary of public comments
This could be a brief narrative summary or reference an attached document from the Citizen
Participation section of the Con Plan.
To be inserted upon completion of public comment period.
6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them
To be inserted upon completion of public comment period.
7. Summary
The 2023 Annual Action Plan was developed with information received from the Westfield community
through citizen outreach efforts, engaged participation in the City’s general strategy in serving low-and-
moderate income populations, and collaboration with local service providers. This plan represents the
City’s best efforts to leverage current opportunities to address those needs identified in the 2020-2024
Consolidated Plan.
Annual Action Plan 4
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies - 91.200(b)
1. Agency/entity responsible for preparing/administering the Consolidated Plan
The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and
those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source.
Agency Role Name Department/Agency
CDBG Administrator WESTFIELD Office of Community
Development
HOME Administrator WESTFIELD Office of Community
Development
Table 1 – Responsible Agencies
Narrative
The Office of Community Development & Planning is the lead agency responsible for administering the
programs covered by the Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan, as well as any other HUD-
required reporting relating to these programs. The Department participates in a wide variety of activities
including, but not limited to, the following:
Administration of the City’s Community Development Block Grant Program.
Provision of staff services to the Westfield Planning Board.
Economic Development Planning assistance
Industrial park planning and land assembly and marketing.
Open space preservation and planning.
Agricultural preservation and planning.
Downtown revitalization planning.
Administration of the City’s Off-Street parking facilities.
Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information
Peter J. Miller, Community Development Director
City of Westfield, 59 Court Street, Westfield, MA 01085
Phone: (413) 572-6246 E-Mail: p.miller@cityofwestfield.org
Annual Action Plan 5
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l)
1. Introduction
The 2023 Action Plan represents the Fourth Year Plan under the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan crafted
and approved by HUD in 2020. The Consolidated Plan involved significant consultation with
stakeholders, public service providers, and citizen groups.
Meetings with advocates for the elderly and the homeless were held regularly throughout the year with
Community Development receiving views on neighborhood, housing and community needs from the
public.
From January through March 2023, the City consulted with a number of agencies, groups and
organizations. They were asked for data and for input on needs, priorities and other issues. Those
groups and organizations included representatives of public and private agencies who serve elderly,
people with disabilities, and homeless and low-income residents. In addition, multiple housing agencies,
mental health service agencies and regional and state government agencies were consulted.
Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between
public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health
and service agencies (91.215(l)).
The City works with numerous public and private organizations to coordinate community development
and housing services. Coordination between entities includes: serving on joint committees, on-going
communication, and long term strategic planning. Organizations include public institutions on the local,
regional, and state levels, local nonprofits, faith-based organizations and the private sector.
Agencies and committees on which Community Development staff serves includes the Pioneer Valley
Transit Authority, the Western Massachusetts Leadership Council of the Committee to End
Homelessness, the Hampden County Continuum of Care, the Western Massachusetts Economic
Development Council, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission’s Regional Housing Committee, the
Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce Downtown Merchants Working Group, and others.
Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of
homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with
children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness.
The City of Westfield is an active member of the Hampden County Continuum of Care, led by the City of
Springfield’s Division of Housing. The CoC Board holds meetings quarterly.
Annual Action Plan 6
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)The Hampden County CoC has been a leader in identifying innovative strategies to address the needs of
homeless and at risk individuals. The CoC Annual Meeting, held on January 20th called significant
attention to the tightening housing market, where families struggle with increased rents and with a lack
of available safe units and lack of a sufficient supply of shelter beds in Hampden County. The CoC’s
efforts, however, have resulted in a pipeline of 126 additional Permanent Supportive Housing units, a
new initiative and resources to house victims of domestic violence. A host of agencies, including public
and assisted housing providers, governmental, hospital, health, mental health and additional service
agencies participate in CoC meetings.
The City of Westfield continues to fund, through Public Services projects, the Day Program at the
Samaritan Inn, a 30-bed homeless shelter in Westfield as well as the Mental Health Association’s Safe
Haven transitional housing program on Broad Street. The Westfield Police Department is the primary
local agency assisting the CoC’s annual Point-in-Time count, which establishes a census of unsheltered
individuals in Westfield.
Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction’s area in
determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards for and evaluate
outcomes of projects and activities assisted by ESG funds, and develop funding, policies and
procedures for the operation and administration of HMIS
The Community Development Director serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Hampden
County Continuum of Care. Led by the City of Springfield, the Board reviews and approves applications
for ESG funds and votes on Policies & Procedures for the CoC. The HMIS (Homelessness Management
Information System) is administered by the City of Springfield’s Office of Housing.
2. Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and
consultations
Annual Action Plan 7
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated
1 Agency/Group/Organization BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF GREATER WESTFIELD
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children
What section of the Plan was addressed Anti-poverty Strategy
by Consultation?
Briefly describe how the Community Development staff consulted with CEO
Agency/Group/Organization was and program staff at the Boys & Girls Club on
consulted. What are the anticipated 2/14/23 to discuss matters relative to youth
outcomes of the consultation or areas for services offered at the club, including summer
improved coordination? camp, pre-school, after school programming, and
food security. Through CDBG and other sources of
funding, the Boys and Girls Club is able to offer
tuition at a reduced or free rate for children from
low-and-moderate income households to attend
summer camp. Over 300 children attend summer
camp at the Boys & Girls Club each year, with the
majority of them being from low-and-moderate
income households.
2 Agency/Group/Organization DOMUS, INC.
Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-Education
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation? Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth
Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the Community Development staff met with Domus
Agency/Group/Organization was Inc. staff on 2/15/23 to discuss housing needs,
consulted. What are the anticipated supportive services, and community education
outcomes of the consultation or areas for programming. Through CDBG and other sources of
improved coordination? funding, Domus, Inc. is able to offer GED and
English Language Learners courses. The English
Language Learners course has been beneficial to
our large population of non-English speaking
community members in Westfield. In addition to
these community education programs, Domus Inc.
owns and operates six multi-unit housing
properties, including family housing, single-room
occupancy, and permanent supportive housing.
Annual Action Plan 8
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)3 Agency/Group/Organization MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
Services-Persons with Disabilities
Services-homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy
Briefly describe how the Community Development staff met with MHA CEO
Agency/Group/Organization was and Vice President of Housing and Recovery on
consulted. What are the anticipated 2/2/23. Through CDBG and other sources of
outcomes of the consultation or areas for funding, MHA offers the Safe Havens Program for
improved coordination? chronically homeless individuals who would be
unable to live in a standard homeless shelter due to
other co-existing disorders. In addition to the Safe
Havens program, MHA facilitates a supportive
housing program and recovery coaching program in
Westfield. MHA staff indicated there is a lack of
affordable housing in Westfield as well as
supportive services for homeless individuals. The
January 25, 2023 Point in Time Count indicates
there are 2,687 homeless individuals in Hampden
County.
4 Agency/Group/Organization Westfield Council on Aging
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Elderly Persons
What section of the Plan was addressed Anti-poverty Strategy
by Consultation?
Annual Action Plan 9
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Briefly describe how the The Executive Director of the COA, with the
Agency/Group/Organization was Director of Community Development, participates
consulted. What are the anticipated in the Mayor's regular department head meetings.
outcomes of the consultation or areas for On 2/6/23 COA director expressed concerns over a
improved coordination? growing number of homeless elderly individuals
and a large number of elderly individuals at risk of
homelessness due to the inability to afford
necessary home improvements. The waiting list for
affordable housing is lengthy, and the system is
hard to navigate. The COA operates several
programs to allow elderly individuals to age in
place. One of these programs partially funded by
CDBG, provides elders with transportation to
essential appointments and well-being checks to
individuals who would otherwise have no one to
check in on them.
5 Agency/Group/Organization YWCA OF WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Victims of Domestic Violence
What section of the Plan was addressed Non-Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation?
Briefly describe how the Community Development staff met with YWCA CEO
Agency/Group/Organization was and staff on 2/21/23 to discuss domestic violence
consulted. What are the anticipated survivor services in Westfield. The YWCA operates
outcomes of the consultation or areas for the SafePlan program at Westfield District Court
improved coordination? and has an MOU with Westfield State University
students who are survivors of sexual assault and
domestic violence. YWCA staff discussed the
possibility of renting spaces in a non-profit agency's
building in Westfield to have a larger footprint in
Westfield and offer services to address gaps in
service.
6 Agency/Group/Organization Westfield Engineering Department
Agency/Group/Organization Type Agency - Managing Flood Prone Areas
Agency - Management of Public Land or Water
Resources
What section of the Plan was addressed Non-Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation? Vulnerability Preparedness
Annual Action Plan 10
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Briefly describe how the The City's Engineering Department is consulted
Agency/Group/Organization was with regularly throughout the year relative to
consulted. What are the anticipated issues such as neighborhood revitalization, public
outcomes of the consultation or areas for infrastructure, and vulnerability preparedness. On
improved coordination? Community Development staff and Engineering
staff met on 2/23/23 to determine which
neighborhoods have the greatest need for
neighborhood revitalization efforts, including
sidewalk replacement, repaving, and infrastructure
repair.
7 Agency/Group/Organization Westfield Food Pantry
Agency/Group/Organization Type Non-profit
What section of the Plan was addressed Non-Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the The Westfield Emergency Food Pantry provides
Agency/Group/Organization was groceries and hot meals to Westfield community
consulted. What are the anticipated members through their food pantry and mobile
outcomes of the consultation or areas for food truck. Community members are able to
improved coordination? register through an online system to verify they are
of low-and-moderate level income. Individuals are
allowed 13 visits per year. The Westfield Food
Pantry has been filling in gaps for when the Soup
Kitchen is unable to be open. The Food Pantry
Executive Director expressed concerns during a
consultation on 3/7/23 over grocery prices, and
how many working middle class families now need
to visit the food pantry.
8 Agency/Group/Organization VALLEY OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing
What section of the Plan was addressed Housing Need Assessment
by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
Homelessness Needs - Veterans
Homelessness Strategy
Anti-poverty Strategy
Annual Action Plan 11
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Briefly describe how the Community Development Director consulted with
Agency/Group/Organization was VOC, the region's Community Action Agency, on
consulted. What are the anticipated 1/10/23. The City has worked closely with VOC to
outcomes of the consultation or areas for develop an emergency rental assistance program
improved coordination? for families impacted by job loss due to COVID, as
well as a fuel assistance program specifically for
moderate-income households. VOC also serves
Westfield's WIC Program, and other wrap-around
services.
9 Agency/Group/Organization Westfield Building Department
Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government - Local
What section of the Plan was addressed Non-Homeless Special Needs
by Consultation?
Briefly describe how the The Community Development Office participates in
Agency/Group/Organization was monthly meetings of the Code Enforcement group,
consulted. What are the anticipated headed up by the Building Department. The Code
outcomes of the consultation or areas for Enforcement group consists of several municipal
improved coordination? departments and focuses on addressing problem
properties, building, health, and conservation code
violations and quality-of-life issues. The Action Plan
reflects concerns presented by the group to make
our low-and-moderate income neighborhoods
safer and more livable.
10 Agency/Group/Organization SCORE Western Massachusetts
Agency/Group/Organization Type Business and Civic Leaders
What section of the Plan was addressed Economic Development
by Consultation?
Briefly describe how the The Western Massachusetts representative of
Agency/Group/Organization was SCORE met with Community Development staff on
consulted. What are the anticipated 2/16/23 to discuss counseling services for small
outcomes of the consultation or areas for businesses in Western Massachusetts. The
improved coordination? volunteer-based agency provides business
mentoring services to small businesses in Westfield
and across Hampden and Hampshire Counties. This
consultation contributed to the Action Plan by
identifying the need for technical assistance for
small businesses.
Annual Action Plan 12
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)11 Agency/Group/Organization The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce
Agency/Group/Organization Type Business and Civic Leaders
What section of the Plan was addressed Economic Development
by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy
Briefly describe how the The Community Development Director held a
Agency/Group/Organization was phone consultation with leadership at the
consulted. What are the anticipated Westfield Chamber of Commerce on 1/5/23 and
outcomes of the consultation or areas for discussed economic development initiatives,
improved coordination? including state economic development legislation
and ARPA fund programming. The Chamber
Director advocated for economic development
assistance, particularly for small businesses in
downtown from both CDBG funds and ARPA funds.
12 Agency/Group/Organization Greater Westfield Committee for the Homeless,
Inc.
Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless
What section of the Plan was addressed Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless
by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy
Briefly describe how the The Executive Director of the Samaritan Inn visited
Agency/Group/Organization was Westfield City Hall on 2/3/23 to discuss ongoing
consulted. What are the anticipated operations of the Westfield homeless shelter,
outcomes of the consultation or areas for which has 30 shelter beds and 7 transitional
improved coordination? housing units. The agency shared that they are
transitioning away from DHCD state contracting for
shelter beds and working to develop a strategic
plan for sustainability. The agency receives CDBG
funding from the City for its Day Shelter operations.
Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting
The City consulted with agencies in all required disciplines.
Annual Action Plan 13
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan
Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the
goals of each plan?
Westfield serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the
Greater Springfield Continuum of Care. The CoC is tasked with
Continuum of City of Springfield- a "Built for Zero" mission to end homelessness by working to
Care Office of Housing re-house homeless individuals and families. Westfield seeks to
provide programs that contribute to stabilizing living
environments for all residents.
Pioneer Valley
Our Next This plan takes a comprehensive look at our region and its
Planning
Future opportunities in economic development, and other sectors.
Commission
Rethinking
City of Westfield Our local Economic Development strategy, written in 2009.
Downtown
This plan was constructed in 2013 and is guiding a major
Elm Street
Westfield development effort in the City's downtown. Its findings align
Urban
Redevelopment with the City's goals to redevelop a vacant city block to provide
Renewal Plan
Authority transit, employment, and/or housing opportunities to the
(State)
downtown area.
Westfield In 2013, the City initiated a market analysis of the area
Riverfront surrounding the Westfield River riverfront area. This study
City of Westfield
Feasibility provides data and guidance in redeveloping a blighted area of
Study the City.
Table 3 - Other local / regional / federal planning efforts
Narrative
Aside from the plans and agencies listed above, the City of Westfield is fortunate to have an active and
collaborative non-profit and provider community. The City takes great consideration of their input in
preparing this plan.
Annual Action Plan 14
*DRAFT* 2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-12 Participation - 91.401, 91.105, 91.200(c)
1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation
Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting
Westfield followed its Citizen Participation Plan as required by HUD. The City relied on faith-based
communities and ethnic/civic organizations to communicate its plans with non-English speaking
populations. Copies of translated notices were sent to two faith-based organizations to reach the City’s
sizable Russian and Ukranian immigrant populations as well as to the Westfield Spanish-American
Association to communicate with the City's Spanish-speaking populations. Additionally, copies of the
notices were posted on the City’s meeting notice board and at the Westfield Athenaeum (the City’s
public library) in three languages (English, Russian, Spanish).
The City also used its social media to communicate throughout the planning process.
Citizen Participation Outreach
Sort Or Mode of Ou Target of Ou Summary of Summary of Summary of co URL (If
der treach treach response/atte comments re mments not applica
ndance ceived accepted ble)
and reasons
Comments
were offered
in support of
public service
The City held
Non- programs,
two public
Public targeted/ economic All comments
1 hearings on
Meeting broad development were accepted.
January 24,
community , and public
2023.
infrastructur
e
improvement
s.
A public
hearing was
Non- held on April
Public targeted/ 26, 2023 to
2 TBD TBD
Meeting broad accept
community comment on
the 2023
Action Plan
Annual Action Plan 15
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Sort Or Mode of Ou Target of Ou Summary of Summary of Summary of co URL (If
der treach treach response/atte comments re mments not applica
ndance ceived accepted ble)
and reasons
Comments
and
The City held a
questions
meeting on
were
February 8th
received
at City Hall for
relative to
agencies
private
CDBG interested in
Non- infrastructur
Application understanding
targeted/ e All comments
3 Technical more about
broad improvement were accepted.
Assistance the CDBG
community projects and
Meeting application
public
and
services
regulations.
primarily
Four people
focused on
attended this
child
meeting.
enrichment
programs.
Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach
Annual Action Plan 16
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Expected Resources
AP-15 Expected Resources - 91.420(b), 91.220(c)(1,2)
Introduction
HUD NOTICE CPD-23-05 was issued on February 27, 2023 This notice provides instructions to HUD
grantees relative to submission of FY 23 Action Plans and publishing draft Action Plans prior to official
communication of annual allocations.
HUD allows for an Action Plan to be published with estimated allocation numbers with the caveat that
grantees must include in their Draft Action Plan how they would either increase or reduce funding if the
allocation exceeds or comes in lower than the estimated allocation.
Westfield anticipates receiving $382,863 for the FY 23 Action Plan. If the official allocation amount
exceeds this number, all additional funding would be programmed to Community Facilities and the
Municipal Playground renovation project.
Anticipated Resources
Program Source Uses of Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Narrative
of Funds Annual Program Prior Year Total: Amount Description
Funds Allocation: Income: Resources: $ Available
$ $ $ Remainder
of ConPlan
$
CDBG public - Acquisition HUD released
federal Admin and Entitlement
Planning allocations on
Economic February 27,
Development 2023. Prior
Housing Year
Public Resources
Improvements were
Public accumulated
Services and re-
programmed
following a
Substantial
Amendment
to the 2022
382,863 8,400 61,855 453,118 383,000 Action Plan.
Table 5 - Expected Resources – Priority Table
Annual Action Plan 17
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local
funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied
The CDBG program provides vital resources for locally-driven initiatives aimed at providing economic
opportunity and suitable living environments for Westfield residents of low-to-moderate income. CDBG
program funds, because they are limited, are meant to supplement local and state initiatives aimed at
providing economic opportunity for underserved populations and to improve the living environment in
the City of Westfield.
Some programs CDBG funds allow the City to leverage are:
Community Preservation Act (CPA): The City of Westfield has adopted the CPA, a Massachusetts law
adopted locally that institutes a 1% surcharge on property tax bills for all property with a value of
greater than $100,000. The program requires 10% of program receipts be dedicated to affordable
housing initiatives.
Westfield General Fund: The City provides a portion of funding for the Office of Community
Development, as well as resources for parks improvement, street and sidewalk investment, and public
health programming, among other things.
Massachusetts Chapter 90 Road Assistance Funds: For neighborhood infrastructure improvements, the
City receives $1.2 million in state assistance to make improvements to local roads and sidewalks. The
City plans to leverage Chapter 90 investment in neighborhoods to more effectively improve low-and-
moderate income neighborhoods.
Private fund raising: Public services are funded primarily through other government contracts and
private giving.
Section 8 & MRVP: The Westfield Housing Authority is the local housing authority. Its staff administers
Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program and Section 8 vouchers.
HOME program fund requirements are met in a variety of ways. Records on matching fund requirements
are monitored by the City of Holyoke as the Holyoke-Chicopee-Westfield Consortium lead agency.
If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that
may be used to address the needs identified in the plan
The City of Westfield has identified the following publicly-owned properties as locations where
Annual Action Plan 18
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)improvement or development might assist in addressing the needs identified in this plan:
Fort Meadow School: Currently operating as a public preschool, Fort Meadow School on School Street
has been eyed as a potential location for consolidated social services should it become available. This is
identified as a medium-term prospect.
Elm Street Urban Renewal Parcel: The Westfield Redevelopment Authority owns a 1.6-acre parcel in the
center of Downtown Westfield. The WRA has authorized the City to make certain improvements to the
site to create a public plaza for civic activities, including festivals, concerts, and economic activity. The
project was bid for construction in February 2023 and it is anticipated to be completed in Summer 2023.
Westfield Riverfront South: The southern bank of the Westfield River, just west of Elm Street, is owned
by the City of Westfield and has been identified as a potential location for housing and commercial
redevelopment. The City currently owns approximately 2.3 acres of property in the area. The property
directly abuts the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail, which is slated to open in Fall 2023. The City continues
to plan additional expansion of the Columbia Greenway to connect our downtown neighborhoods with
shopping areas to the east and Westfield State University to the west.
Abner Gibbs School: Abner Gibbs Elementary School is located in close proximity to the City’s
Downtown West neighborhood. Abner Gibbs is slated for closure in 2025-2026 as an expanded
elementary school will be constructed on Franklin Street. Abner Gibbs School is being eyed for potential
adaptive reuse as affordable housing upon the conclusion of its 100-year life as an elementary school.
Discussion
Annual Action Plan 19
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Annual Goals and Objectives
AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives - 91.420, 91.220(c)(3)&(e)
Goals Summary Information
Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Funding Goal Outcome
Order Year Year Area Addressed Indicator
1 Create 2020 2024 Non-Housing City-wide Economic CDBG: Businesses
Economic Community Development $72,000 assisted: 13
Opportunities Development Businesses
Assisted
2 Neighborhood 2020 2024 Non-Housing Downtown Neighborhood CDBG: Public Facility
Revitalization Community West Revitalization $196,000 or
Development & Infrastructure
Infrastructure Activities for
Low/Moderate
Income
Housing
Benefit: 76
Households
Assisted
3 Public Services 2020 2024 Homeless City-wide Public Service CDBG: Public service
Non-Homeless $57,225 activities other
Special Needs than
Non-Housing Low/Moderate
Community Income
Development Housing
Benefit: 1034
Persons
Assisted
4 Community 2020 2024 Non-Housing City-wide Community CDBG: Public Facility
Facilities Community Facilities $51,000 or
Development Infrastructure
Activities
other than
Low/Moderate
Income
Housing
Benefit: 3630
Persons
Assisted
Annual Action Plan 20
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Sort Goal Name Start End Category Geographic Needs Funding Goal Outcome
Order Year Year Area Addressed Indicator
5 Planning & 2020 2024 Planning & City-wide Planning & CDBG: Other: 1 Other
Administration Administration Administration $76,573
Table 6 – Goals Summary
Goal Descriptions
1 Goal Name Create Economic Opportunities
Goal The City aims to assist existing small businesses and microenterprises to retain
Description and create jobs for low-and-moderate income families by offering a Business
Blueprint Program, which provides business coaching and counseling services to
10 microenterprises. The Community Development Department will also operate
its Microenterprise Assistance program, which provides direct assistance to
qualified microenterprises for expansion, capacity-building, and operational
needs.
2 Goal Name Neighborhood Revitalization
Goal The City proposes to fund replacement of sidewalks on Orange Street in Westfield
Description during the 2023 CDBG program year. Orange Street has been qualified as a low-
moderate income neighborhood through household surveys conducted in Winter
2022. The project service area is made up of 76 households. Orange Street is
located just north of the Franklin Avenue School, which will be reconstructed and
expanded beginning in Summer 2023. Replacement of sidewalks will allow for a
safer route to the School, where a majority of students walk to school.
3 Goal Name Public Services
Goal The City of Westfield allocates no greater than 15% of CDBG funds to provide
Description public services for new services to our community or to assist with managing the
increase in demand of existing services. Proposed activities in the 2023 program
year include the Greater Westfield Boys & Girls Club Kidscape Summer Program,
the Kamp for Kids summer program, Hi-SET/GED preparation classes offered
through Domus, Inc., the Day Program at Samaritan Inn Homeless Shelter,
Westfield Food Pantry, the Meals on Wheels home-delivered meals program by
Highland Valley Elder Services, a Senior Companionship Program through the
Westfield Council on Aging, and the Safe Haven Transitional Housing Program
operated by the Mental Health Association, Inc.
Annual Action Plan 21
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)4 Goal Name Community Facilities
Goal The 2023 program proposes the expenditure of $51,000 to renovate the Spray
Description Park at Municipal Playground on Greylock Avenue. The Spray Park, now 16 years
old, requires a renovation to rehabilitate the spray park concrete pad and
replacement of fixtures at the facility.
5 Goal Name Planning & Administration
Goal To properly administer the functions of the CDBG program and develop planning
Description projects to assess community needs and identify strategies for addressing those
needs.
Annual Action Plan 22
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-35 Projects - 91.420, 91.220(d)
Introduction
The projects proposed are consistent with the Goals and Outcomes set forth in this Action Plan and with
the 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan as amended last in July 2022.
# Project Name
1 Planning & Administration
2 Public Services
3 Economic Development
4 Neighborhood Revitalization- Public Infrastructure
5 Community Facilities
Table 7 – Project Information
Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved
needs
The 2023 plan represents the fourth year of the Consolidated Plan. Part of the review process
for formulation of this Plan was to review the progress the City has made toward the goals and
objectives set forth in the Consolidated Plan. The projects, allocation priorities, and outcomes
proposed in this plan were set based upon analysis of data collected throughout the first three
years of this Consolidated Plan.
Annual Action Plan 23
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-38 Project Summary
Project Summary Information
1 Project Name Planning & Administration
Target Area City-wide
Goals Supported Planning & Administration
Needs Addressed Planning & Administration
Funding CDBG: $76,572
Description To properly administer the functions of the CDBG
program and develop planning projects to assess
community needs and identify strategies for addressing
those needs.
Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and type of Not Applicable
families that will benefit from the
proposed activities
Location Description Not Applicable
Planned Activities Provide resources for administration and planning needs
for effective management of CDBG activities.
2 Project Name Public Services
Target Area City-wide
Goals Supported Public Services
Needs Addressed Public Service
Funding CDBG: $52,450
Description The City of Westfield allocates 15% of CDBG funds to
provide public services for new services to our
community or to assist with managing the increase in
demand of existing services.
Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and type of 1034 households, at least 51% of whom low-to-
families that will benefit from the moderate income, are anticipated to benefit from
proposed activities services funded partly by the CDBG Program.
Location Description Citywide
Annual Action Plan 24
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Planned Activities The City of Westfield allocates 15% of CDBG funds to
provide public services for new services to our
community or to assist with managing the increase in
demand of existing services.
Kidscape Summer Learning Camp, Kamp for Kids™ at
Camp Togowauk, Volunteer Companionship Program,
Westfield Food Pantry, Highland Valley Home Delivered
Meals for Elders, Westfield Community Education,
Samaritan Inn Day Center, and Mental Health
Association Homelessness Assistance
3 Project Name Economic Development
Target Area City-wide
Goals Supported Create Economic Opportunities
Needs Addressed Economic Development
Funding CDBG: $72,000
Description The City aims to assist qualified small businesses and
microenterprises with business coaching and
operational assistance.
Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and type of It is anticipated 13 qualified businesses will be assisted
families that will benefit from the with CDBG funds in Program Year 2023.
proposed activities
Location Description Business locations will be determined based upon
applications that will be received to specific programs.
Planned Activities The City plans to fund the following activities under this
project.
1. A Business Blueprint Program, which provides
business coaching, counseling, and assistance to
qualified microenterprises. These services will be
provided through a new Subrecipient, the Franklin
County Community Development Corporation.
2. Microenterprise Assistance Program: The City plans
to operate its existing Microenterprise Assistance
Program for qualified microenterprises. The program
will provide operational support to promote growth.
Annual Action Plan 25
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)4 Project Name Neighborhood Revitalization- Public Infrastructure
Target Area Riverfront South
Goals Supported Neighborhood Revitalization
Needs Addressed Neighborhood Revitalization & Infrastructure
Funding CDBG: $196,000
Description The City proposes the replacement of sidewalks on
Orange Street in Program Year 2023.
Target Date 12/1/2023
Estimate the number and type of The Orange Street neighborhood contains 77 residents
families that will benefit from the based upon the City's annual census.
proposed activities
Location Description Orange Street- From Shepard Street to Maple Street.
Planned Activities The project includes replacement of sidewalks along the
length of Orange Street, from Shepard Street to Maple
Street.
5 Project Name Community Facilities
Target Area Downtown West
Goals Supported Community Facilities
Needs Addressed Community Facilities
Funding CDBG: $51,000
Description This project includes capital improvements to
playgrounds and public facilities, including certain non-
profit facilities open to the public serving primarily low
and moderate income populations.
Target Date 6/30/2024
Estimate the number and type of 3,630 individuals; Census Tract 8127.01 Block Group 2,
families that will benefit from the 8127.01 Block Group 3, and 8129.01 Block Group 3. Of
proposed activities these individuals, 52.62% are of low-and-moderate
income.
Location Description City of Westfield- Municipal Playground, 7 Greylock
Street, Westfield
Planned Activities The City intends to expend these funds on replacement
and renovation of playground equipment at Municipal
Playground.
Annual Action Plan 26
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-50 Geographic Distribution - 91.420, 91.220(f)
Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and
minority concentration) where assistance will be directed
The City of Westfield encompasses 47 square miles of land in Western Hampden County. The City is
diverse in ecology, land use, population, economic drivers, business make-up, and housing options.
Westfield is bisected by the Westfield River, and like many communities, it was developed from its
Center outwards.
Downtown Westfield contains the City's most dense neighborhoods, its oldest housing stock, and the
largest population of low-and-moderate income families and individuals. In the City's Consolidated Plan,
the Downtown was split into Downtown East and Downtown West.
Downtown East extends from Noble Street in the east to Elm Street in the west, East Silver Street in the
north and Bartlett Street in the south.
Downtown West extends from Elm Street in the east to Hubbard Street in the west, Court Street in the
north and Orange Street in the south.
Riverfront North extends from the Westfield River in the south to Notre Dame Street in the north along
North Elm Street.
Riverfront South extends from Orange Street in the south to the Westfield River in the north, and from
Shepard Street in the west and along Meadow Street in the east.
Hampton Ponds is defined as the northeast corner of the City from Old Stage Road in the west to the
Holyoke border in the east, and from North Road on the south and the Southampton border on the
north.
Geographic Distribution
Target Area Percentage of Funds
Downtown East 0
Riverfront North 0
Riverfront South 44
City-wide 29
Downtown West 27
Hampton Ponds 0
Table 8 - Geographic Distribution
Annual Action Plan 27
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically
For Program Year 2023, competitive applications were received for the target areas as indicated on the
chart above.
The Downtown West neighborhood generally contains the City’s central business district. It is
anticipated that several small businesses will require economic development assistance to maintain
operations.
The Citywide allocation contains the City’s public service activities, community facilities playground
improvements, and CDBG Administration costs.
The Riverfront South allocation includes the replacement of sidewalks on Orange Street.
While Riverfront North, Downtown East, and Hampton Ponds had no applications filed this year, they
remain vital target areas as the City forecasts through the Five-Year Consolidated Plan.
Discussion
Annual Action Plan 28
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing -91.420, 91.220(j)
Introduction
The City of Westfield has adopted policies consistent with the goal to create affordable housing
opportunities. The City has a prompt and predictable permitting process, zoning permissive of varying
styles of housing development, and regular communication among departments concerned with quality
housing, including Community Development, the Westfield Housing Authority, the Department of Public
Health, the Office of the Treasurer, and the Office of the City Solicitor, among others. The primary
barriers to affordable housing in Westfield include:
General cost of construction and compliance with Massachusetts Building Code;
Rising interest rates cause an increase in cost to develop or own housing;
Difficulty of gaining site control and land assembly for larger projects;
A lack of developers with enough sophistication to navigate the challenge of accessing state and
federal housing programs in Western Massachusetts, but particularly acute in Westfield;
Low vacancy rates and competition for unsubsidized units from local University students; and
Significant gaps between development costs and affordable ownership or rent levels
The City serves as a member of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission's Regional Housing Roundtable,
where broader policy discussions impacting the Greater Springfield area's regional affordability are
regularly held. Additionally, the City participates in the Western Massachusetts Housing Task Force,
which meets monthly to collaborate to address issues impacting affordable housing and homelessness.
Actions it planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve
as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning
ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the
return on residential investment
The City of Westfield, under the direction of its Planning Department, is actively working to update the
City's Comprehensive Master Plan, an effort that has not been undertaken since 1962. The initiative
includes significant public outreach, and housing affordability and development sustainability are among
the primary topics of interest. It is anticipated the Plan will be completed in Fall 2023.
Westfield, as a member of the Holyoke-Chicopee-Westfield HOME Consortium, has entitlement access
to resources from the federal HOME program, and the City anticipates issuing a Request for Proposals in
Spring 2023 to identify developers for affordable rental housing in the City. Community Development
staff maintains a database of properties, both public and private, that could accomodate multifamily
development. These properties include undeveloped land, properties identified as either underutilized,
vacant, or appropriate for adaptive reuse and redevelopment into housing. Over the past decade, the
City has surplused former school buildings for conversion to housing, and it is anticipated there will be
Annual Action Plan 29
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)additional opportunities for similar development when the new Franklin Street School is completed in
Fall 2025. The City will continue to actively seek opportunities for housing development in all forms.
The City has also created a Chapter 40R zoning overlay district through a state incentive program
offered by Massachusetts Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) where
developers are given a by-right increase in density that would not be achievable in the underlying zoning
district. The City created this overlay district off Southwick Road in the City's southern reaches.
Lastly, through the Community Preservation Program, the City has funded a down payment assistance
program for income-eligible homebuyers to allow for greater access to homeownership. The program
has funded six purchases since 2020, but has slowed down in the past year as interest rates have risen
and housing prices remain high.
Discussion
Annual Action Plan 30
2023
OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 09/30/2021)AP-85 Other Actions - 91.420, 91.220(k)
Introduction
Westfield, population 41,000, is a diverse community, culturally, in topography, in income
demographics, and in land-use. Citywide, Westfield is committed to responsible development and
redevelopment of existing facilities to accommodate employment expansion, economic opportunity,
and housing opportunity.
As a certified Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) community, Westfield additionally pays
particular attention to opportunities to more effectively protect environmentally sensitive areas and
properties in and around the flood zones near rivers and streams. Westfield was originally named
Streamfield due to the importance of the Westfield River and Little River, which are both part of the
Connecticut River basin.
Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs
Westfield maintains regular contact with a diverse set of public service providers in the areas of senior
services, youth services, food security, public transportation, housing services, subsistence services (fuel
assistance, etc), and affordable housing program managers operating in the City. Westfield aims to
continue those collaborations to identify new methods to provide those services that required by low-
and- moderate income populations. Additionally, the City has accessed state and local funds to develop
recreational opportunities and renovate parks, sidewalks, and streetscapes in the near downtown
neighborhoods.
In Winter 2022, the City has contracted using ARPA funds with the Valley Opportunity Council (VOC) to
provide supplemental assistance to families struggling with the cost of heating their homes. VOC
operates the Low-Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for Westfield, and has identified certain
populations that will benefit from additional assistance.
Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing
The City of Westfield will work with local housing counseling organizations and spread awareness of
local programs to assist first time homebuyers.
As has been referenced in other sections, Westfield intends to make use of additional state and federal
resources dedicated to affordable housing development by issuing a Request for Proposal in Spring 2023
to identify potential development projects through the federal HOME Program and the HOME-ARP
program, both administered primarily by the City of Holyoke as the Lead Community for the Holyoke-
Annual Action Plan 31
2023
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