Local Housing Authorities Receive Assistance - December 03, 2007
BOSTON - The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development has awarded emergency capital improvement bond funding to the Lee and Lenox housing authorities, and a technical assistance grant to the Lee authority, according to state Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield, and state Rep. William "Smitty" Pignatelli, D-Lenox.
"Investing in our housing stock ensures dwelling safety and improves the lives of our residents. I am glad that DHCD has chosen these housing authorities to receive emergency aid," said Downing.
The amount of the awards, totaling $111,887 is based on DHCD's preliminary estimate of the costs associated with projects proposed by the two housing authorities. Projects include:
$100,000 to make selective repairs at the J. W. Brown Memorial Court Development in Lenox
$11,887 to reimburse repairs made to Lee Housing Authority's West Street Development.
During the preliminary design phase, DHCD will be able to more accurately assess the scope of the emergency repairs and actual costs and adjust the award amount as needed.
"This is great news. We definitely have to pay more attention to the capital improvement needs of housing authorities across the commonwealth. This is an important first step," said Pignatelli.
The next step is for the housing authorities' boards of directors to approve DHCD's contract for financial assistance and related information. |
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