Health department official Kate Florek outlines plan to apply for HUD lead‑remediation grant

Kate Florek of the Marathon County Health Department told the Health & Human Services Committee that the department would like the county board’s blessing to apply for a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) lead production grant when the notice of funding opportunity is released. The committee moved and approved a motion authorizing staff to apply.

The grant, as described by Florek, is an "up to $7,000,000 award for a 3 year period." Florek said roughly 65% of award dollars must go to lead hazard control, there is typically a 10% local match requirement, and an optional Healthy Homes supplement could allow the county to address radon, mold and other hazards in the same homes if eligible. She said the department and the City of Wausau have been working together under a capacity‑building grant that positions the county to pursue a larger production award.

Why it matters: Marathon County has a high share of older housing where lead hazards are more common; Florek told the committee about local data and partnerships and said the county could likely use grant funds for risk assessments, inspections, clearance testing and certified contractor remediation work including window replacement and paint stabilization. The department estimated that, depending on the final NOFO scope, the county could remediate roughly 30 to 45 homes over a three‑year grant period.

Committee discussion focused on scope, homeowner cost and match requirements. Administrator Leonard and Florek clarified that HUD production funds are for residential properties (owner‑occupied and rental) and that the program generally does not require direct payments from homeowners; however, rules can include restrictions on rent increases or sale that, if violated, could trigger repayment. Florek said communities commonly do not request the maximum award on a first application and that successful awardees often secure follow‑on funding in later years.

Supervisor Rosenberg praised the county’s partnership with Wausau and moved to authorize staff to apply; Supervisor Kremes seconded the motion and the committee approved it by voice vote. Next steps: staff will submit an application when the HUD notice of funding opportunity is posted and will inform the county board if the county is awarded the grant; any award would require a future budget adjustment or amendment if funds must be incorporated into the county’s operating budget.

Quote: "Lead poisoning is forever," Florek said, urging early intervention to prevent long‑term harm to children and families.

Provenance: topicintro: SEG 031; topfinish: SEG 379.