Swift County is applying for a Small Cities Community Development Block Grant for the rehabilitating housing and commercial properties in Swift County from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

The purpose of seeking this grant is two-fold: To assist low and moderate-income residents in performing renovations on their homes, and second, to assist commercial property owners to make improvements that make their buildings more livable, energy efficient, safe and accessible.  While the principal focus of the renovations is code compliance and health and safety upgrades, other eligible activities include electrical and plumbing upgrades, roof replacement, and energy improvements.  The assistance is in the form of 0% interest, deferred loans to eligible applicants.

“The Cities of Benson and Appleton have both been awarded these grants in the past and with this county-wide application, we hope to bring the program to all cities and townships within Swift County, “ says Vicki Syverson, from the Swift County HRA. “We are looking forward to improving housing stock through-out Swift County, as well addressing some of our smaller communities’ needs with the commercial revitalization program.”

The grant pre-application process is highly competitive and is due in November. Only those applications that demonstrate need and readiness will be asked to complete a full application.  Demonstrating interest in the program upfront is a critical component in the application.

At this time, the program is seeking homeowners and commercial property owners interested in applying to the program. For an application or more information, please call Ms. Vicki Syverson or Mr. Tim Mooberry at 320-842-4676 by October 29.

We would like to hear from any Swift County resident who may be interested in taking advantage of this great opportunity to do some much needed home or commercial property improvements.  Applications are also available for download on the Swift County RDA homepage at www.swiftcountyrda.com.