RESIDENTS SOUGHT FOR NEIGHBORHOOD GRANTS

Residents who live in the Locust-Maple area could benefit from up to $14,000 in improvements if they qualify for the first phase of a two-year Neighborhood Block Grant.

The first phase of the project, worth $383,500 in Neighborhood Block Grant money, would rehabilitate 35 homes. This marks the sixth Neighborhood Block Grant the city has received since 1982.

The second phase, which will begin next year, is worth $350,000 and will involve construction of 780 feet of curb and gutters as well as 521 feet of sidewalk.

Housing Assistance Coordinator Steve Williams will explain the project and provide application forms at a meeting Thursday at 7 p.m.

Completed applications should be taken to the Division of Planning Services Office in City Hall, 401 Independence, in Room 200 during regular business hours. Anyone who is unable to climb stairs may turn their application in or receive assistance on the first floor.

The property owner must provide these items:

-- A copy of the deed to the property.

If the owner has the original deed, the planning services office will make a copy for its records.

-- Social security numbers of all family members.

-- Veterans claim number, if the applicant receives veterans benefits.

To be eligible for a rehabilitation grant one must own and live in the house prior to making an application or own property which has been established as rental units prior to making an application.

Applications will be handled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Priority will be given to owner-occupied units.

Applicants must meet income limits determined by family size. For example, a family of four with an income of $18,150 would be placed in the category of very low income. A family of four with an income of $29,050 would receive low-income status.

People unsure of meeting income guidelines may receive assistance from the planning services office.

Williams said the project will involve replacement of 1,700 linear feet of 4-inch cast-iron water line on Locust Street. It will also include replacing a section of 2-inch galvanized water line on South Ranney Street.

Williams said the existing pipe contains lead and must be removed to meet the minimum block grant housing standard code.

As part of a minimum block grant housing standard, which the city council passed Oct. 10, households with children age 7 and younger and women young enough to bear children, will be tested for lead paint.

Williams said the Neighborhood Block Grant will pay for the additional costs.

Questions concerning the Housing Rehabilitation Program or any of the application procedures will be answered by Williams or Becky Figliolo at the Division of Planning Services office at 334-8326.