HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 12-10-2024; 8-m - Approval of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness (OCPEH) 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: December 10, 2024
Action Agenda
Item No. 8-m
SUBJECT: Approval of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) — Orange County
Partnership to End Homelessness (OCPEH)
DEPARTMENT: Housing
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Blake Rosser, Director, 919-245-2490
Danielle Butler, OCPEH Manager, 919-
245-2490
PURPOSE: To approve the one-year interlocal agreement by which Orange County and the
Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough agree to jointly fund the Orange County
Partnership to End Homelessness (OCPEH).
BACKGROUND: The Memorandum of Understanding must be approved and signed annually in
order to fund approximately 45% of the OCPEH budget, with the rest being funded by a
combination of federal and state grants and some county funds. Total budget for FY 2024-25 is
$1,989,472.
OCPEH was established in 2005 by the Board of Commissioners as a joint effort to address
homelessness in Orange County. In 2019 it was more formally linked to the county by association
with the Housing Department, which included some general fund allocation to support
programming and staffing. The proportion of jointly-funded expenses is based on population and
set at:
• 39.5% - Orange County
• 39.7% - Town of Chapel Hill
• 14.3% - Town of Carrboro
• 6.5% - Town of Hillsborough
FINANCIAL IMPACT: This expense was already budgeted for FY 2024-25 and will have no
additional impact on the Housing Department's budget.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GOAL 3: HOUSING FOR ALL
OBJECTIVE 2: Address need and any policy barriers to increase access to emergency
shelter beds and other low-barrier housing including eviction diversion.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve and authorize the
Chair to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
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Attachment 1
Memorandum of Understanding between Orange County and the
Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough:
Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness (OCPEH)
Whereas, in April 2008, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, Chapel Hill Town
Council, Carrboro Town Council, and Hillsborough Board of Commissioners endorsed
the Orange County 10-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness and entered into a
memorandum of understanding to fund and support the Plan's implementation by the
Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness (OCPEH), and
Whereas, the Partnership has made significant progress in ending and preventing
homelessness in Orange County over the past sixteen years, and
Whereas, the parties to this Memorandum came together and revised this Memorandum
of Understanding in 2015, and
Whereas, reflecting a combination of national best practices, national funding models,
and local experience,the Orange County 10-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness has
evolved to become an ongoing program, the Orange County Plan to End Homelessness,
and
Whereas, the role of the Partnership is to implement Orange County's Plan to End
Homelessness and serve as the Continuum of Care for Orange County, and
Whereas, the parties to this Memorandum understand the value of this work to each
jurisdiction and accordingly intend to continue to fund and support it, and
Whereas, the initial 10-Year Plan created a body called the Executive Team,now called
the Leadership Team, consisting of representatives appointed from each of the above
governmental partners and a cross-section of community representation, charged with
providing oversight and direction to the plan, and the parties to this Memorandum intend
for the Leadership Team to continue to perform this role, and
Whereas, the parties to this Memorandum intend to continue funding the Partnership's
Homeless Programs Manager and Housing Access Coordinator, and provide partial
funding for the Homeless Programs Coordinator, all of whom have job responsibilities
outlined in a Job Description(Attachment A), and
Whereas, in order to implement the Plan,the Partnership is providing direct service
programs via pass-through funding from other sources, and
Whereas, the four elected appointees continue to recommend and serve on the OCPEH
Executive Team, which shall consist of the four elected appointees, to ensure that the
interests of all four funding jurisdictions are consistently represented;
Whereas, the parties to this Memorandum have determined the amount of funding to be
provided by each partner by utilizing a population-based formula based on the latest
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Census data. Based upon the 2020 Census data, the percentage contributions, subject to
each jurisdiction's approval, are as follows:
• Orange County 39.5%
• Town of Chapel Hill 39.7%
• Town of Carrboro 14.3%
• Town of Hillsborough 6.5%
The parties to this Memorandum hereby clarify the roles and responsibilities of each
body as it relates to funding and oversight.
A. The Executive Team will:
1. Provide ongoing supervision of the Homeless Programs Manager(HPM)
through the County Manager by:
i. Conducting joint annual performance reviews of the HPM with the
County Manager, after gathering input from the Chair of the
Leadership Team and others, as appropriate;
ii. Approving an annual work plan for the HPM based on the goals of
the Plan, subject to final approval by the County Manager;
iii. Meeting with and reviewing the work plan with the HPM and the
County Manager quarterly;
iv. Participating in interviews for the hiring of the HPM;
v. Making recommendations to the County Manager regarding
performance concerns related to the HPM.
2. Operate its program on the same fiscal year as that operated by the Towns
and County.
3. Not have supervisory authority over any Town or County staff who may
be assigned to provide assistance to the Leadership Team or Executive
Team.
4. Meet quarterly, with staff support, to review progress under the annual
work plan.
B. Towns and the County will:
1. Provide office space and supplies for the use of the Partnership staff as
needed and available.
2. Provide staff assistance as needed to support the Executive Team and
Leadership Team subject to Town Manager and County Manager
direction.
3. Provide an annual appointment from the elected governing bodies to the
Leadership and Executive Teams.
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4. Assist with the annual implementation efforts of the Plan.
5. Continue to support the Partnership through the responsibilities and
activities outlined herein.
6. Receive an annual report and presentation from the HPM reflective of
system-level data and OCPEH programming data.
7. Not be required or expected to continue funding Partnership staff should
the funding not be available through any one or more of the other partners.
8. Not require or suggest the HPM perform work on goals that are not in
her/his work plan for the Partnership.
9. Work with the HPM to incorporate Homeless System Gaps Analysis into
County-wide housing planning and supporting data sources
C. The Plan is understood to be a living document that the Partnership will update
over time to reflect its accomplishments and the evolution of policies, evidence-
based practices, and funding.
D. This Memorandum supersedes the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding that
supported the Orange County 10-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. It will
remain in effect for one year from the date of its adoption by all Parties.
Memorandum will be renewed under one year terms until decisions regarding
OCPEH governance revisions are adopted and if agreed upon by all parties.
Revisions will be presented to the Executive Team for consideration no later than
the final quarterly meeting of the Executive Team prior to expiration of the one
year term. Any Party hereto may withdraw from the Memorandum by providing
written notice to every other Party at least 6 months prior to the start of the fiscal
year in which the Party wishes to withdraw.
[SIGNATURES TO FOLLOW]
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Wherefore the Parties hereto have set their hands and seals on the day and dates recorded
below.
ORANGE COUNTY
Jamezetta Bedford, Chair
ATTEST
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
ORANGE COUNTY
I, the undersigned Notary Public of the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that
personally came before me this day and acknowledged
that she is the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners for Orange County, North Carolina
and that by authority duly given and as the act of said County, the foregoing instrument
was signed in its name by the Chair of said Board of Commissioners and attested by her
as Clerk to said Board of Commissioners.
Witness my hand and official stamp or seal this day of , 20
Notary Public
(Notary Seal)
My commission expires:
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TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL
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Jes i a Anderson, Mayor
.ATTEST
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
ORANGE COUNTY
1, the undersigned Notary Public of the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that
SA%eiWw M. OLrytV— , personally came before me this day and acknowledged
that she is the Town Clerk for the Town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina and that by
authority duly given and as the act of said Town, the foregoing instrument was signed in
its name by the Mayor of the Town of Chapel Hill,NC and attested by her as Town Clerk
for the Town of Chapel Hill,NC.
Witness my hand and official stamp or seal this 22- day of Oc4-c Eta , 20 2 4
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Notary PublIQq,�T, �.}�,�,�
(Notary Seal) �ARV,6),�o�i
My commission expires: MQ , 16, QD 2S' ��� '�• ����
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TOWN OF CARRBORO
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Barbara Foushee , Mayor
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
ORANGE COUNTY
I, he undersign -i Notary Public of the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that
personally came before me this day and acknowledged
that Qs t own Clerk for the Town of Carrboro, North Carolina and that by
authority duly given and as the act of said Town, the foregoing instrument was signed in
its name by the Mayor of the Town of Carrboro, NC and attested by Jler'as Town Clerk
for the Town of Carrboro,NC. �A""^
Witness my hand and official stamp or seal this /2- day of v , 202V.
-Notary Public
(Notary Seal)
My commission expires:1 -5--- 2 C—
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TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH
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Mark Bell,Mayor
A EST
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
ORANGE COUNTY
I,the undersigned Notary Public of the County and State aforesaid,do hereby certify that
w t. lclmr!,qpersonally carne before me this day and acknowledged
that he/she is the own Clerk for the Town of Hillsborough, North Carolina and that by
authority duly given and as the act of said Town, the foregoing instrument was signed in
its name by the Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough, NC and attested by her as Town
Clerk for the Town of Hillsborough,NC.
&fid official stamp or seal this 2' ^day of �y{,v , 20 14.
_C�• —• — _ Notary Public Y(Ud n
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My�MviiissME expires: [L!7,3A
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HOMELESS PROGRAMS MANAGER
Job Class: 2307
FLSA Status: Exempt
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
An employee in this class is responsible for managing systems of service,
programs, and funding for people experiencing homelessness. An employee is
responsible for leading and coordinating the effort to develop a comprehensive
approach to ending homelessness in Orange County, collaborating with Orange
County, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough town staff on program initiatives
as well as managing the Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness
(OCPEH). These responsibilities include a wide range of activities related to
program performance, ensuring regulatory compliance with all applicable laws
and regulations, and program and staff management.
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Housing and Community
Development Director with leeway to exercise independent judgment within the
framework of applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures in the
performance of duties, both in terms of planning and accomplishing work, and in
making decisions regarding needs and requests. Supervision is a responsibility of
this class. Does related work as required.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Following are examples of typical work activities and responsibilities. The
incumbent may be responsible for performing other related duties and
responsibilities as required or assigned. A position may not include all the
work examples given, nor does the list include all that may be assigned.
Manages and provides leadership to the administration of various programs
addressing housing and services to those affected by homelessness, and
oversees quality control of various grant programs.
Serves as a primary contact on homelessness program initiatives for the County
and participating jurisdictions.
Supervises, coordinates, or assists in the coordination of partnerships and
collaborates with local and regional homelessness and housing resources
including the County's Street Outreach program, Rapid Rehousing, Coordinated
Entry, housing navigation and access, and other programs statewide.
Coordinates with the North Carolina Coalition to End Homelessness to support
homeless providers in their use of the Homeless Management Information
System (HMIS).
Participates in the North Carolina HMIS Governance Committee.
Utilizes and maintains the HMIS to provide local homeless data reports to track
data quality of local agencies, monitor program performance and outcomes.
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Performs all homeless data reporting required by federal, state, regional, and
local entities.
Works collaboratively with human services agencies across Orange County to
assist households at risk and currently experiencing homelessness in pursuing
services.
Coordinates updates to the Orange County Resources Guide for distribution to
local governments, providers and the public.
Provides staff and coordination support for the Orange County Partnership to
End 11onnelessness (OCPEH) Leadership Team and subourrir-iii[toes, which
includes posting meeting notices, drafting agendas, and recording and
distributing meeting notes.
Coordinates the process for, and completes and submits annual federal and
state grant applications by coordinating input from OCPEH grantees and other
stakeholders. Applies for other grants to support the goals of the County,
municipalities and OCPEH.
Coordinates the development and implementation of initiatives to achieve the
goals of the Plan to End Homelessness (Plan), including annual updates to the
Orange County Homeless System Gaps Analysis.
Coordinates updates of the OCPEH Plan in collaboration with the OCPEH
Leadership Team and subcommittees; works throughout the year to achieve the
goals and strategies contained in the Plan.
Works to fill system gaps as identified in the annual Orange County Homeless
System Gaps Analysis.
With the Homeless Programs Coordinator, administrates and supports eight
monthly standing meetings of the Continuum of Care (CoC) including the by-
name list review, veterans meeting, SOAR Collaborative, etc.
Coordinates the OCPEH annual reports including past year accomplishments
and current year goals.
Coordinates the planning and execution of the annual Project Connect services
event.
Manages data collection and reports to the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban
Development (HUD)events (i.e. Point-In-Time Count, Housing Inventory Count,
Longitudinal Statistical Analysis, System Performance Measures, etc.)
Maintains knowledge of current issues, trends, and strategies related to federal,
state, regional, and local homelessness policies, best practices, research,
statutory regulations and requirements; conveys this information to the County,
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municipalities, OCPEH committees and stakeholders.
Responds to inquiries from the County and municipal staff, the OCPEH, and the
public requesting information to connect at-risk individuals with available
resources.
Coordinates and maintains the OCPEH website and social media accounts
including Facebook and Twitter.
Provides overall supervision of homelessness division staff and direct
supervision to Housing Access Coordinator and the Homeless Programs
Coordinator, ensuring staff compliance with the OCPEH Plan, HUD regulations,
program requirements and standard operating procedures.
Supervises the Housing Access Coordinator to ensure that the program
establishes and maintains effective working relationships with tenants and
landlords to facilitate conflict resolution.
Supervises assigned staff to ensure homeless programs are in compliance with
HUD regulations, program requirements and standard operating procedures
monitors production, quality control and data integrity of transactions completed.
Holds regular staff/team meetings and provides continuous leadership and
communication with the Homeless division staff; assesses staff performance and
coordinates training and development opportunities as needed.
Works across the Housing and Community Development department on housing
initiatives and actively seeks collaboration from internal and external partners to
better serve the community; makes programming recommendations to the
Director based on knowledge of participant and community needs and
knowledge of evidence-based practices in the field.
Makes policy and program change recommendations to the Department Director.
Assists in the management and analysis of the program's budget and makes
recommendations to the Director regarding the OCPEH budget as needed.
Coordinates and monitors the OCPEH budget, provides annual fiscal information
to the County and Town Managers in the budget process.
Ensures excellent customer service is provided to all homeless clients, landlords,
and community partners,
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Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals such as County
staff, clients, service providers, community audiences and the general public.
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Embraces and supports all initiatives, policies and procedures within Orange
County Housing and Community Development Department and OCPEH, and
implements all new requirements in accordance with established guidelines.
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jUses computer applications and other systems such as spreadsheets, word
processing, calendar, email and database software in performing work
assignments.
Adheres to the County's safety rules and regulations.
Performs related duties as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Thorough knowledge of the local, state and federal laws, ordinances, standards,
and regulations pertaining to subsidized and affordable housing, homeless
pr ugrarns.
Thorough knowledge of the principles, theories, practices and methodologies of
homeless planning and development.
Thorough knowledge of evidence-based practices in HUD housing and
homelessness programs.
Thorough knowledge of HIPAA guidelines and the ability to maintain a high level
of confidentiality when working with various records and reports containing
personal and financial information.
Thorough knowledge of the functions and interrelationships of the County and
other governmental agencies.
Good knowledge of the social, economic, and environmental factors that
influence poverty and housing insecurity.
Good knowledge of County ordinances, department policies and procedures.
Good knowledge of Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) and Motivational Interviewing
(MI) methods.
Skill in management and supervision, and the ability to coordinate and/or
supervise the work of others.
Skill in being customer-focused, adept at problem solving and working
collaboratively with others.
Skill at prioritizing work activities and the ability to multi-task while under
pressure.
Skill in oral and written communication including developing and delivering
presentations, and preparing and maintaining accurate records and reports.
Skill in gathering and analyzing complex data.
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Skill in public and interpersonal relations.
Ability to demonstrate sound judgment, integrity, resourcefulness, accuracy, a
high degree of confidentiality, thoroughness, tact, dependability and courtesy
commensurate with the demands of the position, while maintaining an ethical
standard of care.
Ability to plan and implement detailed and complex programs and activities;
ability to manage programming, monitor and maintain compliance with complex
federal, state and local program requirements and regulations.
Ability to develop, explain, present, and implement operational and program
policies and procedures.
Ability to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures and
facilitate attainment of established departmental goals and objectives.
Ability to accurately interpret and timely apply regulations, evaluate program
activities, and recommend and implement related improvements.
Demonstrated ability to work with diverse, low income populations and homeless
individuals, and establish and maintain effective professional relationships with a
variety of constituents, i.e. tenants, landlords, County staff, outside agencies and
the general public.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with
diverse, low-income populations to express information and ideas clearly and
concisely.
Ability to read and interpret complex materials; ability to assimilate technical and
theoretical concepts from diverse disciplines and apply creatively and intuitively
to solve unique problems.
Ability to interact with all levels of staff exhibiting professional discretion,
confidentiality, and high ethical standards; ability to collaborate with others and
work as part as a team.
Ability to coordinate department activities with other County departments,
property/business owners, residents, developers, and community leaders in
order to accomplish goals and complete projects.
Ability to work in stressful conditions while balancing multiple projects within time
constraints, personnel capabilities, financial resources and political
considerations.
Ability to maintain effective relationships with County employees, professionals
and the general public through contact and cooperation.
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Ability to formulate reports, present findings and make recommendations based
on research and data; ability to prepare public reports and program documents.
Ability to offer training and assistance to co-workers and County employees, as
required.
Ability to complete the duties of the position with limited supervision.
Ability to effectively problem solve and handle difficult situations and complex
decision-making, and react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.
Ability to oversee and assist in development and maintenance of all record
keeping systems, as applicable.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and occasional weekends.
Ability to effectively use computer applications such as spreadsheets, word
processing, calendar, e-mail and database software to maintain records, prepare
reports, and conduct correspondence related to the work.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from a regionally accredited or recognized college or university with a
Master's Degree in Social and/or Political Science, Sociology, Urban Planning,
Business Administration, Community Development, Counseling, Social Work or
closely related field; AND five (5) years' experience including direct work
experience or graduate level coursework in housing or community development;
AND three (3) years of administrative or consultative experience in a human
service program with program planning, administration, and evaluation,
marketing, and grant management AND two (2) years of supervisory experience;
OR
Graduation from a regionally accredited or recognized college or university with a
Bachelor's Degree in Social and/or Political Science, Sociology, Urban Planning,
Business Administration, Community Development, Counseling, Social Work or
closely related field AND seven (7) years' direct work experience in housing or
community development AND three (3) years of administrative or consultative
experience in a human service program with program planning, administration,
and evaluation, marketing, and grant management AND two (2) years of
supervisory experience; OR
Graduation from a regionally accredited or recognized college or university with
an Associate's Degree in Social and/or Political Science, Sociology, Counseling,
Social Work, Urban Planning, Business Administration, Community Development
or closely related field AND nine (9) years' direct work experience in housing or
community development AND three (3) years of administrative or consultative
experience in a human service program with program planning, administration,
and evaluation, marketing, and grant management AND two (2) years of
supervisory experience; OR
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An equivalent combination of education training and experience.
Experience in the homelessness programs (work experience or living
experience) initiatives is strongly preferred.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the
State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
All offers of employment are conditional upon successful clearance of a
background check. Employment cannot commence until the employee has been
cleared.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND POSSIBLE HAZARDS
Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational support functions of
standing, sitting, walking, typing, bending, stooping, carrying, reaching, talking
and repetitive motions of the hands and wrists.
Ability to perform light work, exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally,
and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push,
pull or otherwise move objects.
Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, perform
bookkeeping, perform extensive reading and operate a computer terminal.
Ability to endure emotional stress related to the nature of interactions with
residents and/or family members who may be hostile, resistant or violent.
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HOMELESS PROGRAMS COORDINATOR
Job Class: 2045
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position: 1291
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
This is a time-limited, benefited position through 6/30/2022. The work involves the
responsibility for coordinating programs that assist persons who have experienced a
housing crisis. Work involves supervising the work of the Housing Helpline/Coordinated
Entry staff, Street Outreach Peer Navigators, Rapid Rehousing staff, and Homelessness
Prevention staff, ensuring timely response is given. An employee in this class works with
the Homeless Programs Manager to coordinate community funding application processes
and homeless Continuum of Care activities.
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Homeless Program Manager with
some leeway to exercise independent judgment within the framework of applicable rules,
regulations, policies and procedures in the performance of duties, both in terms of planning
and accomplishing work and in making decisions regarding client needs and requests.
Supervision is a responsibility of this class. Does related work as required.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Following are examples of typical work activities and responsibilities. The incumbent may
be responsible for performing other related duties and responsibilities as required or
assigned. A position may not include all the work examples given, nor does the list
include all that may be assigned.
Coordinates the assigned housing programs and is responsible for effective program
delivery; develops plans for accomplishing program objectives, staffing requirements, and
allotment of funds to various program components.
Performs recordkeeping, reviews and evaluates program progress and needs, and
participates in goal setting and program evaluation.
Provides quality control of the various programs associated with homelessness by
conducting file reviews of applicants and referrals.
Assists with coordination of the Continuum of Care to include funding processes, and
meeting coordination to include agenda setting and meeting minutes.
Provides supervision to the Street Outreach Peer Navigators, Coordinated Entry Housing
Specialists, Homelessness Prevention, and Rapid Rehousing Specialist, providing
guidance and correction as needed; consults with coworkers to review clients' progress,
resolves problems and monitors quality of service.
Ensures staff compliance with the Administrative Plan, HUD regulations, program
requirements and standard operating procedures monitors production, quality control and
data integrity of transactions completed.
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Plans and conducts meetings, training and other activities for staff members.
Serves as technical resource to County staff, clients, and community organizations.
Works closely with department staff and service providers to determine what housing
programs are available and appropriate for clients.
Works with the Housing Access Manager to provide clients with information about
housing availability and makes referrals to obtain permanent housing alternatives.
When needed, provides back up to assist persons at-risk due to lack of permanent
hnu!a inn alternatives including counseling, case manngnment, ,upport and preventive
services and making appropriate referrals to departments, individuals and agencies.
When needed, answers calls and emails on the Housing Helpline and provides
appropriate coordinated assessment and resource connection procedures to include
accurately recording information in the Homeless Management Information System
(HMIS) and other databases for analysis and reporting purposes.
Attends and assists in the coordination of Orange County Partnership to End
Homelessness meetings, to include executive, leadership, SOAR Collaborative, HOME
Committee, Veterans Experiencing Homelessness Workgroup, and others as needed;
takes notes and sets agendas for these meetings as needed.
Collaborates, coordinates, and supports team members and follows through on initiatives
and assignments, as directed; actively participates in team meetings, process
improvements and other special projects.
Serves as back-up to the Homeless Program Manager.
Embraces and supports all initiatives, policies and procedures within Orange County
Housing Department and Orange County Housing Authority, and implements all new
requirements in accordance with established guidelines.
Adheres to the department's safety rules and regulations.
Uses computer applications or other automated systems such as spreadsheets, word
processing, calendar, e-mail and database software in performing work assignments.
Performs other tasks as required.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Thorough knowledge of federal, state and local laws, codes and policies concerning the
provision of public assistance programs and their eligibility requirements, especially as
they relate to housing and supportive services needed for housing stability.
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Thorough knowledge of interviewing procedures and practices, and skill in assessing and
evaluating clients' needs.
Thorough knowledge of Street Outreach, Coordinated Entry, Homelessness Prevention,
and Rapid Rehousing evidence-based practices.
Thorough knowledge of Continuum of Care and Emergency Solutions Grant funding
regulations and guidelines.
Thorough knowledge of HIPAA guidelines and the ability to maintain a high level of
confidentiality when working with various records and reports containing personal and
financial information.
Good knowledge of current social, economic, affordable housing, homelessness, and
health trends and services, and the ability to adapt trends to practical program
applications and link clients with services needed.
Good knowledge of best practices in housing and homeless services provision.
Good knowledge of trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing.
Skill in management and supervision, and the ability to coordinate and/or supervise the
work of others.
Skill in being customer-focused, adept at problem solving and working collaboratively with
others.
Skill at prioritizing work activities and multi-tasking while under pressure.
Skill in oral and written communication including developing and delivering presentations,
and preparing and maintaining accurate records and reports.
Skill in gathering and analyzing complex data.
Skill in public and interpersonal relations.
Ability to demonstrate sound judgment, integrity, resourcefulness, accuracy,
thoroughness and the physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position,
while maintaining an ethical standard of care.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with racially and socio-
economical diverse populations to express information and ideas clearly and concisely.
Ability to prioritize and respond to demands of a caseload in a prompt and effective
manner.
Ability to collaborate with others and work as part as a team.
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Ability to relate well with others under stressful conditions.
Ability to solve problems, work independently and operate under difficult and stressful
circumstances.
Ability to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with County staff,
clients, outside agencies, community organizations, neighborhood associations,
professional or student associations, and members of the general public.
Ability to organize, consolidate and evaluate information, maintain records, prepare
reports, and complete assignments accurately and timely.
Ability to read and understand moderately complex written information.
Ability to effectively use computer applications such as spreadsheets, word processing,
calendar, e-mail and database software to maintain records, prepare reports, and conduct
correspondence related to the work.
Ability to demonstrate sound judgment; integrity; resourcefulness; accuracy;
thoroughness and the physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from a regionally accredited or recognized college or university with a
Master's Degree in Social and/or Political Science, Sociology, Urban Planning, Business
Administration, Community Development, Counseling, Social Work or closely related field
AND two (2) years' experience including direct work experience or graduate level
internship/coursework in housing or community development with a minimum of one (1)
year of experience in supervision, leading teams or coordinating the work of others
An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined above. A higher degree
does not substitute for work experience.
Prior experience working with individuals impacted by housing crises is strongly preferred.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of
North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
All offers of employment are conditional upon successful clearance of a background
check and pre-employment drug testing. Employment cannot commence until the
employee has been cleared.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND POSSIBLE HAZARDS
Ability to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing,
stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling,
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lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing and repetitive motions of the
hands/wrists.
Ability to perform light work exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 5
pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
Ability to endure emotional stress related to the nature of interactions with residents
and/or family members who may be hostile, resistant or violent.
Possess the visual acuity to operate a passenger vehicle when applicable, prepare and
analyze data and figures, perform work on a computer terminal, and perform extensive
reading.
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HOUSING ACCESS COORDINATOR
Job Class: 1684
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
This position is responsible for developing and coordinating data management
systems to simplify access to affordable housing for people in housing crisis, and
coordinate housing availability with landlords, property owners and other
agencies to meet the clients' needs. The work involves identifying affordable
housing alternatives, developing and maintaining systems to manage the
availability of affordable housing, and assisting people as they navigate housing
resources for homelessness prevention, emergency response involving shelter,
and permanent housing.
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Homeless Programs
Coordinator with some leeway to exercise independent judgment within the
framework of applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures in the
performance of duties, both in terms of planning and accomplishing work, and in
making decisions regarding needs and requests. Supervision or leading others may
be a responsibility of this class depending on the assignment. Does related work
as required.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Following are examples of typical work activities and responsibilities. The
incumbent may be responsible for performing other related duties and
responsibilities as required or assigned. A position may not include all the
work examples given, nor does the list include all that may be assigned.
Connects, consults and collaborates with agencies, landlords and property
owners to expand the number of private housing opportunities available in
Orange County.
Develops, maintains and supports data management systems to evaluate the
demand and supply of affordable housing units, and make systems accessible to
various service providers when supporting individuals in their search for
affordable housing units.
Provide accessibility to information and resources regarding programs, services
and available units to assist in the search for affordable housing.
Provides assistance to persons in need of affordable housing to identify, and
secure placement in a housing unit.
Provides direct customer service to service providers, participants, and the
general public responding to inquiries, requests and follow up,
Prepares and presents information regarding coordinated entry to human service
agencies, civic and community groups, and individual citizens.
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Embraces and supports all initiatives, policies and procedures within the Orange
County Partnership to End Homelessness, and implements all requirements in
accordance with established guidelines.
Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals such as county
staff, clients, service providers, community audiences and the general public.
Attends ongoing training from HUD and technical assistance providers.
Performs various administrative tasks including preparing reports and
correspondence, and preparing meeting materials.
Uses computer applications or other automated systems such as spreadsheets,
word processing, calendar, e-mail and database software in performing work
assignments.
Adheres to the County's safety rules and regulations.
Performs related duties as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Good knowledge of the principles, challenges, practices, and philosophies of
affordable housing and homelessness, including information gathering,
counseling, assessment and intervention methods.
Good knowledge of trauma-informed care and client-centered practices.
Good knowledge of the social, economic, and environmental factors which
influence poverty, unemployment and homelessness.
Good knowledge of the various social and health service functions and
interrelationships of the county, other governmental agencies, and community
resources, and the ability to make appropriate referrals.
Good knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards, and regulations pertaining
to homeless services, such as the HEARTH Act, the McKinney Vento Act, the
CoC Interim Rule, and other programs related to the specific duties and
responsibilities of the position.
Skill in being customer-focused, adept at problem solving and working
collaboratively with others.
Skill in interviewing persons, gathering information and using various clinical
assessment tools to evaluate the needs of clients, summarize and interpret
findings, and develop assistance alternatives.
Skill in effectively communicating with persons in difficult and emotional
situations.
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Ability to demonstrate sound judgment, integrity, resourcefulness, accuracy,
thoroughness and the physical condition commensurate with the demands of the
position, while maintaining an ethical standard of care.
Ability to understand the challenges of individuals facing housing crises, and
effectively communicate orally and in writing.
Ability to effectively problem solve and handle difficult situations and complex
decision making, and react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.
Ability to interpret and apply county, state and federal regulations, policies and
procedures.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with clients,
service providers, county staff, agencies, and representatives from civic or
community groups.
Ability to organize and consolidate information, maintain records, prepare
reports, and complete assignments accurately and timely.
Ability to manage and meet multiple deadlines, while being flexible in a complex,
changing environment with competing demands.
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Ability to effectively use computer applications such as spreadsheets, word
processing, calendar, e-mail and database software to maintain records, prepare
reports, and conduct correspondence related to the work.
Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from High School Graduation or General Educational Development
(GED) test equivalency AND three (3) years related work experience in a human
service program and electronic data management systems.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the
State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated,
All offers of employment are conditioned upon successful clearance of a
background check. Employment cannot commence until the employee has been
cleared.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND POSSIBLE HAZARDS
Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational support functions of
standing, sitting, walking, bending, stooping, carrying, reaching, talking and
repetitive motions of the hands and wrists.
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Ability to perform light work, exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally,
and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently and/or negligent amount of force
constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, perform
bookkeeping and operate a computer terminal.
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