Shawn Cain of the Kankakee-Iroquois Regional Planning Commission held a public hearing last week in connection with a housing grant. Cain is the administrator for the grant, and she explained to those assembled at City Hall the details.
“The grant is going to help seniors make repairs on their homes. It’s to help give the selected homeowners an opportunity to age in place, to stay in their home and live independently.” said Cain.
Cain said that she has already met with several applicants, and will next be doing income verification. She next talked about the bidding process for the grant.
“We’re hoping to get this project bid by mid June, so we can get some construction started before fall hits.” Cain said.
Cain said there are some restrictions. For instance a home must be tested for lead paint, and if found, the paint must be removed. In addition, energy efficient lighting must be installed as well
as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. If a home is repaired, the homeowner cannot sell the dwelling for three years. If sold before the three-year time period is completed, the homeowner could be subject to repayment of a portion of the grant.
For more information on the grant, call the Mayor’s office at (574) 772-4553.
