VALDOSTA – Valdosta homeowners can seek assistance to either reconstruct or repair their homes through the City of Valdosta’s CDBG grant.
The CDBG – Community Development Block Grant – application opened Tuesday, Jan. 2, and will end April 30. The program has operated in Valdosta since 2004.
Anetra Riley, the neighborhood development and community protection manager, said, “We have witnessed remarkable transformations in our community since 2004, and we look forward to continuing this positive trajectory with the support of the CDBG program.”
Riley shared more information about the application process with the Valdosta Daily Times Friday afternoon.
The Valdosta City Council receives annual funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The council allocates funds for the Community Development Block Grant to address housing.
Riley said this year’s approved funds were $630,163 with about $422,631 being allocated to housing.
The CDBG grant process is first come, first served and first qualified. Those who are not selected for any repairs or reconstruction must reapply in the next application period.
The applicant must own the property to be considered. Individuals with heir’s or life estate properties will not qualify.
Residents must submit a copy of their license, their Social Security card, the deed to their home, a month’s-worth of paystubs or a copy of the latest Social Security statement.
A common misconception about the CDBG program, Riley listed, was that the city can take a resident’s property. She gave an example of what the city’s actions might be.
“Let’s say we put $130,000 into your home and your property value could have been worth like $20,000. This is on a new construction, we’re going to put a lien on your home for 15 years. Reason being is the city does not want you to sell your home. We want you to live in your home and pay your taxes, keep up the insurance and stay in an affordable house. We’re doing this to help with affordable housing within the city limits of Valdosta,” Riley explained.
The City of Valdosta celebrated its most recent reconstruction project completion with a ribbon cutting in December at Valdosta homeowner Mary Myers’ new home, located on East Mary Street.
“I feel very blessed. I just thank [the City of Valdosta] very much for everything that [they’ve] done. It is truly a blessing from God,” Myers said in an interview at the ceremony.
Since the CDBG program’s inception, the City of Valdosta has worked on about 120 homes. They are currently working on about 10 rehabilitation projects.
The city holds ribbon cutting ceremonies for only the reconstruction projects.
For those seeking further information and guidance on the application process, contact Neighborhood Development at 229-671-3617 or reach out to Charizma Harp via email at charp@valdostacity.com.