In this RFP, production proposals are defined as: newly constructed buildings, adaptive re-use of vacant commercial buildings, renovations of vacant residential buildings or occupied properties that are not currently subject to any restriction. Preservation proposals are defined as occupied properties that are currently subject to restricted financing, have use restrictions, or receive operating support or project-based rent subsidies. The Mayor’s Office of Housing’s programs provide opportunities for local and historically disadvantaged businesses, including minority-owned and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) to grow and enhance their capacity. MOH believes that access to housing development opportunities is a valuable building block to creating a more just economy. It is MOH’s intent to provide a framework of inclusiveness in its related programs to ensure that these businesses may access those opportunities. This equity policy has the following goals: ● Provide fair access to economic opportunities that may arise by participation in MOH development activities. ● Promote the growth of minority, women-owned, and local businesses by encouraging participation in program activities. ● Promote the creation of a more inclusive workforce in businesses that participate in MOH programs. All applicants will need to design and submit a comprehensive plan for achieving diversity and inclusion as described in the evaluation section for this RFP. The development team should also illustrate how each project is providing opportunities for minority-owned businesses to grow through related development activities. This RFP also prioritizes development in neighborhoods that do not currently meet the city-wide average of 19% of all housing units being income-restricted.
