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RGGK 91 Fb,; X75 restrictions to conform with State requirements. He gave examples of the criteria: At least 75 percent of the funds expended through this program must be for new construction, and at least 65 percent of that must be home ownership, not rental property. At least 30 percent of the beneficiaries must be in the very low income category and at least 30 percent in the low income category. Of the total program, at least 60 percent of the recipients must be in the very low or low income category. This program is intended to help not only people in need of housing assistance but also the construction industry as much as possible. It is recognized that communities are strengthened when homeowners have pride in the community because they keep their homes and lawns in better condition, they care about their neighborhood, they participate in the community, and the overall community is enhanced. Commissioner Bird asked if it is possible for home buyers to qualify for a loan as reimbursement for funds already expended, for example, if they made their down payment for the house and lot and are in the process of construction but they are short on funds for furnishings and other things. Director Keating responded that it would be possible if they have not closed on their loan, but it would not be possible to recapture the down payment after closing on the loan. However, they would be eligible for a grant or a loan for impact fees for utilities which would be a new expenditure. Director Keating pointed out that Indian River County has a head start on affordable housing requirements because we have set up the Professional Services Advisory Committee to study the County's land development regulations and we have eliminated needless or overly burdensome regulations. The housing incentive plan addresses the issue of impact fees by providing loans and grants for impact fees. Commissioner Eggert clarified that County property would be considered surplus only if it is not usable for anything else, such as a park, and if no County department has a use for the property. Director Keating agreed that the recommendation in the housing incentive plan would not preclude any property from being used for an appropriate County purpose. Commissioner Adams asked, and Director Keating clarified that the $250,000 that we get from the State is funded by the additional penny documentary stamp tax, half of which is designated for the Preservation 2000 fund and half for affordable housing matters. Commissioner Bird noted that staff is tracking the County's progress in complying with the housing elements of our Comprehensive Plan, and asked how we are doing in that regard. 28