Lapeer County to spend $41,000 in federalized CDBG homeowner-rehab funds for emergency repairs

Christie Severneland, a Human Development Commission representative, told the Lapeer County Board of Commissioners the county has slightly more than $41,000 available for emergency homeowner repairs after released liens exceeded a $35,000 threshold and became federalized under CDBG rules. "We would like to be able to spend that as soon as possible because we only have until June 30 to get it out," Severneland said.

The money will be administered through the county's third‑party contractor and used for urgent repairs such as roofs, wells and heating so low‑income homeowners can remain in habitable homes. Severneland said administrative costs are typically paid to the contractor; "if we spend the entire amount, we would get that percentage of the project, at 18%." She described the program as first‑come, first‑served and said a licensed contractor from the agency conducts inspections and procures bids.

Commissioners pressed for clarity on prioritization, inspection standards and how many homes the funding will cover. Board members noted that $41,000 will fund only a handful of major repairs—Severneland estimated "probably only see 4 to 5 projects with this." She said the program tries to avoid unnecessary large repairs by procuring multiple bids and having an in‑house contractor inspect and document needs.

The board held the required public hearing, had no public commenters on the grant, and moved to accept the CDBG funds. Commissioners approved the acceptance by voice vote.

Next steps: the county will complete the environmental review required for federal funds and proceed with client applications and contractor procurement under the program rules. Officials said they will prioritize complete applications on a first‑come basis and hold subsequent applications until the next funding round if money is exhausted.