Interfaith Housing details federal-backed repairs program for Sterling and Alden homeowners

Clint Nelson, Chief Executive Officer of Interfaith Housing & Community Services, told the Sterling City Commission the Sterling/Alden Housing Improvement Initiative (SAHII) is intended for owner-occupied households at or below 80% of the USDA Rural Development area median income (AMI) and aims to fund repairs that improve livability and accessibility. The program is administered in partnership with First Bank and funded by an Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka. Nelson said typical eligible repairs include roofing, siding, HVAC and electrical work, and that applications can be submitted in person, by mail or online; paper applications are available at First Bank in Sterling and Sterling City Hall.

Nelson reported there are four projects nearing completion, including two in Alden, and that the program needs sixteen additional projects to fully expend the grant. He said all repair projects must be completed and grant reimbursements made by December 2028. City Manager Ian Hutcheson said the City will make applications available at City Hall and promote the program on the City website and official Facebook page. Nelson acknowledged that some homeowners may be reluctant to provide financial documentation and encouraged interested residents to contact Interfaith Housing or First Bank for assistance.