(a) The commission may authorize the disbursement of available money from the trust fund for residential housing projects sponsored by a qualified sponsor. The commission may consult, as appropriate, with persons with varied and diverse interests in housing in order to acquaint them with the trust fund and to solicit information relating to housing needs, residential housing projects, and criteria for selection of residential housing projects. The criteria for making such disbursement decisions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) The number of persons assisted;
(2) The leveraging of money or in-kind services by a qualified sponsor;
(3) The geographic distribution of residential housing projects;
(4) The availability of other forms of assistance; and
(5) Any and all other factors bearing upon the advisability and necessity of the residential housing project.
(b) Funds may also be disbursed from the trust fund to pay expenses of the commission, to pay any and all operating expenses, and to pay for professional, technical, and clerical services provided the commission by the Department of Community Affairs or by other outside sources.