Grant enables residents to improve their homes

The city will implement a first-time home buyers program.
By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
GIRARD -- Several city residents will see improvements to their property made possible through a state grant.
George Zokle, CT Consultants, said the city has received funds from the Ohio Department of Development to provide deferred loans/grants to homeowners for the improvement of property here. He said the city has received such funding six times since 1995.
According to Zokle, there are four basic categories for which homeowners can apply for funding: Rehabilitation of a private residence, rehabilitation of rental property, emergency home repair and a first-time home buyers program.
Funding specifics
Those chosen to receive funds for repairing a private residence will be eligible for a maximum amount of $30,000 unless lead abatement is needed, then the maximum is $35,000. There is no interest, but the owner must live in the home for 10 years; after that, 85 percent of the loan is forgiven.
Those chosen for the rental property rehabilitation program can also receive up to $35,000 depending on lead abatement needs, but the owner must finance 25 percent of the total project cost. A 10-year lien is placed on the property. After 10 years, 95 percent of the loan is forgiven.
Those in the private owner and rental property repair programs can use the funds to correct structural, electric and plumbing problems. The city anticipates funding projects at eight private homes and two rental properties.
The emergency repair program will offer up to $8,000 in the form of a grant to homeowners with immediate repair needs. The city estimates financing repairs to six homes under this part of the program.
The first-time home buyers program will be offered to low- and moderate-income families on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Applicants to the private owner and rental rehabilitation programs will be ranked by a point system to determine those with the greatest need. Those families of low and moderate income with the greatest need will be selected for the programs first.
Applications can be picked up at the Girard City Building. The deadline for applications for the private owner and rental rehabilitation programs is Jan. 31. Applications for the emergency repair and home buyer programs will be considered on a first-come basis and accepted until the funds are exhausted.
jgoodwin@vindy.com