Pontiac Invests $3 Million in Program to Assist Homeowners, Address Blight
Pontiac, a city in Michigan, is set to invest $3.3 million from its American Rescue Plan Act funding into a comprehensive three-stage home repair program for low-income residents. Starting this month, eligible Pontiac households with an income at or below 80% of the area median income may qualify for up to $25,000 in funding to address home repairs. Applications for the program can be accessed online or obtained in-person from various locations, including City Hall, senior centers, the public library, and a local nonprofit.
Mayor Tim Greimel emphasized the significance of this initiative in assisting homeowners who may struggle to afford necessary repairs. While blight in Pontiac is often attributed to landlords or commercial establishments neglecting property maintenance, some homeowners face financial constraints that impede their ability to adequately maintain or improve their homes. The program aims to alleviate this burden and contribute to the revitalization of the community.
During the first stage, applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until August 18. Eligible applicants will have the opportunity to schedule intake appointments with Mathew Turner-Reed, the city’s housing development specialist, starting on June 21. To complete the application process, homeowners must provide documentation, including proof of ownership, household income, homeowners insurance, past tax returns, the most recent mortgage statement (if applicable), and utility bills. If a resident has gone through bankruptcy within the last seven to 10 years, a copy of the bankruptcy discharge may be requested to assess the home’s livability.
Following the initial evaluation, the city will conduct inspections on eligible homes to determine the severity of repairs required. Based on the inspection results, homeowners will either be fully approved for the program or disqualified if the property poses significant safety concerns. To ensure the safety and livability of homes during the construction phase, the city expects a delay of 60 to 90 days between the inspection and the commencement of construction work. Homeowners will be required to sign a release allowing the city to carry out the necessary repairs.
The program has allocated $1.1 million for each of its three stages. If all eligible applicants in the first stage receive the maximum $25,000, the funding will cover repairs for 44 homes. However, as some homeowners may request or qualify for amounts below $25,000, it is anticipated that around 140 to 150 homes will undergo renovation through this program.
Pontiac has taken steps to ensure quality workmanship by selecting and vetting approximately seven contractors, including local and Black-owned businesses, to undertake the repairs. This approach aims to simplify the process for homeowners, alleviating the need for them to seek out contractors themselves and ensuring that the work is carried out according to the program’s standards.
Mayor Greimel is optimistic about the positive impact this program will have on the community, both in terms of improving living conditions for residents and fostering local economic development. By addressing essential repairs and enhancing the safety and quality of homes, Pontiac aims to create a more vibrant and thriving city for its residents.
