Funds available in Cornell to make necessary repairs

Sometimes, repairs pile up and there’s no money on hand to complete those repairs. With a revolving loan fund through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), residents in Cornell can now get the help they need.

Jessica Oleson-Bue, executive director of the Chippewa County Housing Authority, spoke Feb. 6, about the $113,000 available for Cornell.

“If the household meets the criteria, it’s generally approved,” said Bue.

The home repair program serves low to moderate income families. The loans are zero interest, but once the current occupants vacate the home, the loan is due in full.

The housing authority handled three new loans in 2019, dealing with new roofs primarily. Windows and insulation are also part of the loans, as well as fixing accessibility, with expensive requirements for a ramp.

“Folks may need a loan to get this done,” said Bue.

The state has also opened up the program to allow acquisition of property, and while Bue says they do not want to displace people from their homes and like to work together to make repairs, if the home is deemed unsafe, CDBG funds can be used to acquire the home, rehabilitate it, then sell or rent it to a low income family.

“There’s a fair amount of money that’s already been invested here in Cornell,” said Bue, “and that money will revolve back as folks move out of their homes.”

Bue also said the state requires the county housing authority to grant funds to mitigate lead hazards. However, that money will not revolve back into the city’s account, as it is a grant and not a loan.

“More people are likely to move forward with those kinds of repairs, identifying those kinds of hazards,” said Bue.

Currently, only one project is in the works in Cornell, with no one on the waiting list. Those who think they may meet the criteria, can contact the Chippewa County Housing Authority for more information on the revolving funds.

“It’s a great time to apply for the program,” said Bue.