Repair Funds Available For Low-Income Earners

By John Voket

Newtown’s Community Development Office has a modest fund available for qualifying lower-income Newtown residents to make select or emergency repairs to their homes in town.

“This is money being made available to qualified Newtown homeowners so they can make necessary repairs or improvements to their homes,” said Community Development Director Elizabeth Stocker. “Basically it’s to make repairs so people can afford to stay in their homes in town.”

The fund, which currently stands at $14,000, can be disbursed in a single project, or among several projects, and is specifically targeted to things like heating, electrical, plumbing, and roof repairs or replacement, as well as well or well pump work, and energy efficiency projects like window replacement or weather stripping.

“Homeowners can also address certain safety or building code violations,” Ms Stocker explained. “Things like building or repairing outbuildings, garages, landscaping, paving, or putting on additions are not eligible.”

The revolving loan fund was established in 1993 with a small cities community development block grant. Participating residents are expected to match up to 25 percent of the funds provided, based on their ability to pay.

The interest-free loan is reimbursed once the homeowner leaves the primary residence.

A lien is placed on the property to secure the loan, and applicants are subject to income limits. A single homeowner must make less than $51,600, while a family of four can earn as much as $73,650. Documentation is required to determine eligibility, according to Ms Stocker.

Residents may inquire about applying for this unique loan program by calling 203-270-4271.