County to administer $182,000 single-family rehab grant through interlocal agreement with city

Wilson County commissioners on Nov. 3 approved an interlocal agreement with the City to make available $182,000 for the essential single-family rehabilitation program.

Bridal Thompson, the county's development services director, told the board the $182,000 award will fund up to three projects under the program. "The maximum amount awarded for each project cannot exceed $70,000 and that's gonna be at 0% interest and forgivable at $14,000 per year as long as the owner resides in the home and until the balance is reduced to down to $0," Thompson said. Eligibility stated in the presentation includes owner-occupied households with an elderly or disabled or veteran full-time member, or a child aged 6 or under threatened by lead hazards. Household gross annual income must not exceed 80% of area median income for the county.

Thompson said the city will maintain and manage the grant but the program is available to all citizens in Wilson County; the county will assist with outreach, including brochures at the senior center, libraries, and the tax office. Commissioners asked for data comparing city and county participation from prior rounds; Thompson said the last cycle had limited funding (previous awards were $40,000 per project) and that three projects is a small pool.

The board moved and approved the interlocal agreement by voice vote. Staff said they will track participation and coordinate outreach with the city.

Provenance: presentation and discussion by Bridal Thompson beginning at 00:17:39; motion and approval recorded at 00:23:40.