DES MOINES – The DNR Derelict Building Grant Program has awarded grants to nine small, rural Iowa communities to help deconstruct or renovate abandoned structures, remove asbestos, and limit construction and demolition materials going to the landfill. In the KJAN listening area, that includes the Cities of Anita, Farragut, Mapleton and Wall Lake.

The DNR Derelict Building Grant Program was instituted by statute to help rural communities with populations of 5,000 or less remove environmental hazards, improve community appearance and minimize costs by recycling and reusing building materials through deconstruction or renovation of abandoned, derelict buildings.

DBGP funding is awarded annually on a competitive basis with cash matches required. Applications for the next funding round will be due on Feb. 25, 2022.

Among the projects that will receive a total of $400,000 as reimbursement grants, is:

City of Anita, Cass County — $8,500 to abate asbestos and complete a phase 1 environmental site assessment for an old abandoned church.

City of Farragut, Fremont County – $5,100 for renovation to help stabilize the foundation of a building that eventually the city would like to use for a Public Works shop.

City of Mapleton, Monona County – $31,250 for renovation of an old commercial building. Plans are to have business occupy the ground level with housing options on the second floor.

City of Wall Lake, Sac County – $121,700 for asbestos abatement, renovation and deconstruction of an old school building. New site will be transformed into a family recreation center.