Senator Boucher, Senator McLachlan, Representative Scribner Applaud Release of Federal Grant Money for Town of Bethel

$300,000 Grant Will Be Used for Housing Rehabilitation Projects

Hartford, CT – State Senator Toni Boucher (R-Wilton), State Senator Michael McLachlan (R-Danbury) and State Representative David Scribner (R-Brookfield) today applauded the release of a $300,000 grant to the town of Bethel. The grant to Bethel is part of more than $13.5 million in federal small cities grants released to 29 towns in Connecticut. The grant for Bethel will help the town assist an estimated 12 to 15 income eligible households address health, safety and code violations.

“While our state and national economies remain bogged down in a recession, many homeowners are finding it difficult just to pay the bills, let alone make necessary home improvements and updates,” said Senator McLachlan. “This boost from the federal government will help some of the most vulnerable homeowners in our area keep their homes at a time when we are experiencing record foreclosures.”

“This is welcome news during these difficult economic times, both to the town of Bethel and to the people who will be getting help to make necessary improvements to their homes. I am grateful to Governor Rell for the support for the community that she has once again demonstrated,” said Senator Boucher.

“This is an excellent investment of state dollars that will give a helping hand to lower-income families in making necessary health and safety upgrades to their homes during these difficult economic times,” said Rep. Scribner. “In addition, the entire Bethel community will benefit from the remediation of properties that have fallen into disrepair and thus helping to improve property values for those living in the area. This grant program is a win for the entire town, and I want to thank Governor Rell for releasing these funds.”

The Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program is supplying these grants. Small Cities, through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides grants to eligible municipalities for economic development, affordable housing, community facilities and services, and downtown revitalization projects.

The state’s Department of Economic and Community Development administers the funds. For more information visit: www.decd.org.