The deadline to apply for a Highway 25 CHI grant has been extended to May 1, 2024.
The grant allows residents of Bayard, Bagley, Coon Rapids, Churdan, Scranton and Ralston to apply for a 50 percent exterior project matching grant for up to $1,500 to improve the general attractiveness of their property.
The Highway 25 CHI housing grant was started by three Peoples Bank employees from another team of employees on the eastern side of the Greene County following a successful program in 2023. The program aims to help homeowners make any improvement to the outside of a qualifying residence.
To be accepted for the grant, applications must be turned in by May 1. The board will review each application and score them with various objective criteria. Scores are averaged to then award funds, awarding 50 percent of total project cost, up to $1,500 per home. Grants will be available until funds are depleted. Special consideration will be given to applicants utilizing local suppliers and contractors. The grant is not income or age based.
Applications may be picked up from an area Peoples Bank offices, city hall or libraries. The deadline for projects to be completed and paperwork to be turned in is Nov. 1, 2024.
Applications can be mailed to Peoples Bank, Attn: 25 CHI, 1021 Main Street, Scranton, IA 51462.
Peggy Hoyt of Peoples Bank in Scranton and Greene County supervisor Dawn Rudolph met with the Guthrie County board of supervisors to seek funding to be used for projects in Bayard and Bagley. The city of Bayard has pledged $3,000 and may contribute more, depending upon the number of applications. Bagley is struggling financially due to their failure to file a budget for the 2023/24 year but is interested if funds can be found.
“We all struggle in our small rural communities,” said Hoyt. “We want to increase property values. It’s not based on age or income. We’re trying to remove hurdles for the applicants. This is really simple.”
Rudolph pointed out the program is a 501c3 charity. “I know these small communities are kind of overlooked. Hopefully this will help these small communities.” She noted Grow Greene County has awarded funds to allow for the demolition of two houses in Grand Junction with the hope new housing can be constructed.
“We are passionate to get homeowners to improve their properties,” added Hoyt.
It was mentioned POET is interested in providing employees to assist homeowners with the work if needed. Ralston, Churdan and Scranton have each committed $5,000 for use in their cities. Coon Rapids Development is providing some funding also. Rudolph estimated there is about $17,000 in funding that can be used in any community.
The Guthrie County supervisors took no action. Hoyt and Rudolph asked they respond with their commitment by May 1. ~courtesy of The Scranton Journal
