Nonprofit, Green Bank pitch ‘Building Forward’ program to South Fulton council

Tierra Harris, founder of Communities of Tomorrow, and partners on Nov. 12 presented the “Building Forward” housing initiative to the South Fulton City Council, outlining down‑payment assistance, contractor partnerships and energy‑efficiency upgrades intended for households at about 60–80% of area median income.

The presentation, made during the council’s work session, emphasized two goals: increase access to homeownership for the “missing middle” and reduce household energy burdens through weatherization and rooftop solar. Harris said the initiative offers up to $32,000 in down‑payment assistance and connects homeowners with certified contractors for repairs and energy upgrades.

“Where people have a healthy, clean place to stay, they thrive better,” Harris said, describing program elements that include cottage‑court development, market access for small contractors and a pilot of net‑zero homes that she said could reduce household utility bills by up to 60%.

Freedman (Freedman Green Bank and Trust) representatives expanded on financing and incentives. Dr. Parker, speaking for Freedman, said the bank partners with the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (JIFA) and can provide low‑cost bridge loans for projects that exceed rebate dollars. Parker described a two‑step path: contractors help homeowners access JIFA rebates first, and Freedman can fill remaining financing gaps with mission‑oriented lending and technical assistance.

“The state has about $200 million available through the HEAR/HEAR‑style programs that people are not accessing,” Parker said. “We try to help residents get the free money first, and if there’s a gap we provide the bridge.”

Council members pressed for details on eligibility, program delivery and outreach. Councilmember JC Sebastian asked how the program would appeal to residents who own larger homes and worry about property values; presenters said outreach, demonstration projects and neighborhood tours help show options and outcomes. Councilmembers also urged the team to provide flyers and appear at senior and community events to explain qualifications and the contractor screening process.

Harris and partners invited council and residents to visit the Rail District project in LaGrange and offered to host local contractor‑homeowner meetings. They said program partners include HUD‑certified counselors, local banks and workforce development partners who can connect small contractors with licensing and insurance resources.

The city manager’s office will circulate the presenter flyer and coordinate community meetings; presenters said they are prepared to host sessions in South Fulton and to provide materials digitally for council distribution.

What’s next: presenters said they will provide outreach materials and work with councilmembers to schedule neighborhood meetings and contractor briefings so residents can learn about eligibility, application steps and anticipated timelines.