Council approves small increase to home-rehab grant as members debate pilot’s design

The Trenton City Council approved a $2,000 increase to a home-rehabilitation grant at its Jan. 7 meeting and discussed changes to the city’s pilot program after council members described extensive delays and complications in executing the work for a homeowner identified in the meeting as Vanessa Sullivan.

Director Liston told the council the addendum increased the total grant from $90,000 to $92,000 to cover unexpected electrical and sewer issues and to allow release of $15,000 to the contractor so the work can proceed; the administration said it would hold $2,000 back until the contractor receives a certificate of occupancy. Liston said an inspector had visited the property and that a few issues remained to be corrected “over the next couple of days.”

Several council members used the resolution discussion to evaluate the pilot program’s structure. Councilwoman Frisbie said homeowners should not bear the role of project manager and suggested the city work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity or provide a city-funded coach to guide homeowners through construction, inspections and contract changes. Councilwoman Edwards proposed binding contracts that lock in scope of work and reduce change orders that can increase cost and stress for homeowners.

Liston described the program’s current design: grants are made to the homeowner, who then pays the contractor, because if the city directly manages the project it becomes a public procurement requiring bidding and architectural specifications that substantially increase costs. He said the contractor for the Sullivan project initially sought an additional $15,000 but the city negotiated to limit the increase to $2,000.

Council members asked the administration to consider program design changes that would reduce homeowner burden, add a coaching or case‑management function and explore partnerships with nonprofit housing organizations for future projects. Liston said the pilot had been a learning experience and that staff would return with recommendations before moving ahead with more homeowner rehabilitation awards.

Why it matters The action releases funds needed to complete a single home-rehab project, but the debate highlighted structural issues in how the city operates residential rehabilitation grants and what safeguards are needed to protect homeowners and control costs.

What’s next The council approved the funding increase (listed on the consent agenda) and asked administration staff to evaluate program design, consider partnering with nonprofit providers and return with options for clearer contracts, case management and cost controls.