Topic: property upgrades

Hello all. I'm new to affordable housing, coming from market only residential properties to a mixed housing apartment community. There are some things within the community that would benefit the residents, however they don't seem to be in the budget. Talent is available tov raise funds for a new playground or to add bus benches. I've only been told no to the idea of making this happen. Can you please explain why getting grant money for playground or recycling bottle caps for a bench is a no-no.
Thanks for all your help!

Applying for a grant for a playground and bus stop benches is time consuming. This means the money you are being paid to work for them will be going to this project.

In my opinion, playgrounds are not being used very much and are not worth the cost or liability that comes with one.

It's a money and risk thing!

Hi Ashley! I applaud your fresh eyes noticing things that will enhance your affordable community's residents. I am wondering if there isn't other ways and resources you might consider. Collecting bottlecaps for recycling money seems like a longshot to me in raising enough money to install playground equipment. However, often, if you csn work with your City Leaders there may be community grants and connections that would work. And, yes, there is a liability issue when you install playgrounds. Your Management Company may have considered this and discounted it for that reason. As far as benches, talk to the Metro Bus transit office and ask them to install benches at the bus stops. That is their responsibility. Affordable housing requires money be set aside in the budget for Reserves. Usually, you have a certain time period in which a certain amount of money must be spent on the property. That is the money you can use to add apartment upgrades that really add to the quality of a resident's living experience.