A reminder to residents of Lewis: A SWIPCO Town Hall meeting will take place beginning at 7-p.m. In the Lewis Activity Center. The purpose to the meeting is to discuss a $240,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the rehabilitation or repair of a limited number of homes, owned by low-to moderate income homeowners. There’s no need for matching funds from the homeowner in order to be eligible. The only stipulation, is that the homeowner(s) must reside in the home, and if they live there for up to five-years, the entire grant is forgivable.

SWIPCO Community Development Director Daniel Lee, says the CDBG is awarded annually by the Iowa Economic Development Authority with funding from the Department Housing and Urban Development. Daniel Lee says it’s not the first time the grant funds have been awarded and used for homes in Lewis. Last year SWIPCO assisted the City of Lewis in completing a CDBG application, which resulted in a $240,000 award that allows for the repair up to six homes, for as much as $25,000 per home. The funds can be used for things such as roofing, siding, energy efficient windows, heating, and so on.

Lewis was selected for the program after a housing survey was conducted by SWIPCO because after a review of properties, it was determined the community fit the criteria that would allow SWIPCO to submit an application for the CDBG funds. Tonight’s meeting is meant to be informational only. Lee says six homes will initially be awarded as projects. SWIPCO will come up with the bid specifications. The homeowner finds a contractor, and once the final inspection is complete after the work is done, SWIPCO will pay the contractor. Lee says bringing any financial information you may have, such as income, etc., will to help their staff determine your eligibility for the program.

The homes will be selected by a Housing Committee in Lewis, comprised of local members, and if there’s money left over, the funds will be used toward the rehabilitation of additional homes. Again, that meeting is tonight at seven o’clock, at the Lewis Activity Center. If you need more information in advance, call Tammy DeBord at 712-243-4196.