Clark County and city partner for $300K CHIP grant to improve housing

The New Carlisle City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, focused on a proposed partnership with Clark County to apply for Community Housing Impact and Preservation (CHIP) funds. The council discussed the urgency of the application, which is due by June 13, and the potential benefits of securing approximately $300,000 in grant money aimed at assisting low-income residents with home repairs.

Council members expressed concerns about the implications of accepting federal funds, particularly regarding the costs associated with compliance and the prevailing wage requirements that could limit the number of homes that could be repaired. Some members questioned whether the partnership would guarantee funding for more than four homes, as initially suggested, and sought clarification on how the funds could be allocated to address various housing needs in the community.

The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing housing issues, with several council members noting that many residents are in dire need of repairs, such as roofing and heating systems. The council emphasized the necessity of using these funds to improve living conditions for those facing significant challenges.

Despite some reservations about the reliance on federal funding, the council ultimately voted in favor of pursuing the CHIP grant, recognizing the immediate benefits it could provide to the community. The decision reflects a commitment to addressing housing needs while navigating the complexities of federal funding processes. The council plans to continue discussions on broader social service issues in an upcoming working session scheduled for June 23.