RUMFORD — Property owners whose residences need upgrades or repairs to make them safe or more livable, but who can not afford the work on their own, may benefit from a grant being sought by the town.

This year, Rumford will apply for a Maine Housing Assistance Grant under the Community Development Block Grant program, Town Manager Carlo Puiia said Monday in a report.

In 2009, Rumford was awarded a CDBG Housing Assistance grant that provided more than $400,000 in housing repairs and upgrades to properties here.

This year’s application will seek $300,000 from the CDBG program, with an expected $50,000 to $100,000 in additional matching funds, Puiia said.

The application must list projects the town has identified as possible recipients for grant money. Homeowners who qualify with low to moderate incomes, and landlords who have tenants who qualify with low to moderate incomes, are eligible for inclusion.

“Many communities compete for the Housing Assistance Grant monies, so there is no guarantee Rumford will be among those awarded the grant,” Puiia said.

The town will be notified in June whether or not they are successful in obtaining the grant.

“Even if the town is awarded the grant, the property owners listed in the application are under no obligation to continue with the program if they choose not to do so,” Puiia said.

“But having a list of potential projects ready to go, strengthens the town’s case for winning the grant.”

For more information, contact the town manager’s office at 364-4576, or grant coordinator Phil Blampied at 364-3827.

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