Connecticut Governor Rell Announces $300,000 Small Cities Grant for Lebanon Housing Program

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August 22, 2007 -- Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the state has awarded Lebanon a $300,000 Small Cities grant to fund the town’s housing rehabilitation program.

Lebanon’s housing program allows eligible residents and landlords to obtain individual loans of up to $25,000 for health and safety repairs, as well to upgrade plumbing and electrical systems and fix roofs, siding and windows.

“Using Small Cities funding for local housing rehabilitation programs is one of the best ways we can assist residents most in need of help in communities across the state,” Governor Rell said. “With this funding, Lebanon can aid low- and middle-income homeowners to make their homes safe and secure for years to come.”

The rehabilitation program will be implemented throughout town. Participants with incomes below 50 percent of the median are eligible to have the repayment of their loans fully deferred until the property is sold. Residents with incomes between 50 percent and 80 percent of the median can defer two-thirds of the loan until the home is sold; the balance must be repaid over 10 years interest-free.

After screening applicants to determine eligibility, a rehabilitation specialist will be appointed to inspect the homes to identify code violations and housing deficiencies and prepare a cost estimate before the projects are put out to bid.

The federal Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program funds the state Small Cities grants. The program, operated by Connecticut’s Department of Economic and Community Development under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides grants to eligible municipalities for economic development, affordable housing, community facilities and the revitalization of development projects.

Source: Connecticut Governor