Plainville awarded HOME Rehabilitation Grant

It was announced on November 16, 2004 that the City of Plainville has been awarded $180,000 through the HOME Rehabilitation grant program through the Kansas Department of Commerce.  The grant money will be used to help 10-12 homeowners in Plainville to rehabilitate their existing homes.

The City was previously awarded a HOME grant in 2002 and was able to rehabilitate 15 homes.  With the success of the program, it was decided to apply again to see if more homes could be included.

The HOME Rehabilitation program allows for the rehabilitation of homes owned by individuals who qualify under the income guidelines set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  The grant program requires that the home be brought up to code on items like roofing, electrical, plumbing, porch, siding, and foundation.  The program is not a wish list, but the work to be done is determined by an registered inspector.

The grant can pay up to $17,000 per home, with additional money for lead paint removal.  The grant is considered a soft loan and must be repaid if the homeowner leaves within a three-year period.  If they remain in the home for at least three years, the loan is forgiven.

For more information on the program, contact the City Office at 785-434-2841, or Rooks County Economic Development at 785-425-6881.