Federal Block Grants will Help Low and Moderate-Income Homeowners

Hartford, CT – State Senator Tony Guglielmo (R-Stafford) is pleased to announce the state has received nearly $12 million in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Small City grants for affordable and senior housing, economic development, and other local revitalization projects.

“Many of our families are working poor and worrying about how they will replace a roof or deal with mold can be extremely frustrating,” said Sen. Guglielmo. “These block grants will allow towns throughout the district to make the necessary fixes and give these residents peace of mind.”

The grants being awarded total $11,850,000 and will go to 26 Connecticut cities and towns including; Ashford, Ellington, Hampton, Vernon and Woodstock. The Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program is administered by Connecticut’s Department of Housing.

“These municipalities are making much-needed improvements to existing housing, creating more affordable housing options, and improving the quality of life for every resident. I thank our federal partners and appreciate the work the leaders of these communities are doing,” said Governor Malloy.

“This program, combined with our technical assistance to small towns, is a great example of the ongoing partnership between the federal government, the Department of Housing, and municipal leaders across our state,” said Housing Commissioner Evonne Klein. “The projects being undertaken with this funding are integral to achieving a Connecticut where affordable housing is accessible in strong, vibrant communities statewide.”

Small Cities Community Development Block Grants in our district:

Ashford — $400,000   

Ashford will continue its existing housing rehabilitation program and plans to repair approximately 12 units of low- and moderate-income housing.

Ellington — $450,000

Ellington will continue its regional housing rehabilitation loan program to help low- and moderate-income homeowners in Ellington, Somers, and Suffield to rehabilitate their homes. Fifteen housing units are anticipated to be rehabilitated. Upgrades may include roof replacement, heating systems, window replacement, lead paint and asbestos removal, and electrical and code upgrades.

Hampton — $450,000

Hampton will continue its multi-jurisdictional housing rehabilitation program for Hampton, Scotland, Pomfret, and Eastford. Funding will go toward the rehabilitation of 12 units of low- and moderate-income housing.

Vernon – $400,000

Funding will be used to continue its housing rehabilitation loan program, begun last year to help low- and moderate-income homeowners rehabilitate their homes. Twenty units are anticipated to be rehabilitated.  Funds could be used for such things as correcting substandard conditions and code violations, repairing septic systems, and making energy efficiency upgrades.

Woodstock — $400,000

Woodstock will continue its town-wide rehabilitation program by renovating 12 units of housing to address health and safety code violations.