Neighborhood Vitality Grant Program Adopted by Council

At its February 13 meeting, the City Council adopted a Neighborhood Vitality Grant Program to address aging infrastructure by providing funds to supplement the maintenance of residential masonry perimeter screening walls. Key goals of the program include preserving neighborhood aesthetics, fostering community continuity, safeguarding community pride and identity, and addressing safety concerns posed by structural issues.

Under the program, individual homeowners and neighborhood groups, such as Homeowners Associations (HOAs), can apply for grants. Where formal neighborhood groups exist, applications must be coordinated with the HOA to streamline the process and ensure consistency in repairs and materials. In instances where no formal neighborhood group exists, individual homeowners are encouraged to collaborate and submit joint applications to address maintenance needs collectively.

Grant applications will be accepted annually from August 1 to August 30 and reviewed by staff in September. Applicants will receive notification of grant awards during the month of October. Staff will have the discretion to allow an emergency application outside of the standard timeframe.

To participate in the program, applicants must provide a 20% matching contribution, with the Town reimbursing the remaining 80% upon project completion. Matching contributions can be made through cash, material donations, or volunteer hours, subject to approval on a case-by-case basis.

Upon grant approval, applicants are responsible for selecting contractors, obtaining necessary permits, and overseeing project completion. The Town will provide a list of prequalified contractors as a resource for applicants.

You can watch the Council’s Neighborhood Vitality Grant Program discussion here and read the presentation here.

You can watch the Council’s Neighborhood Vitality Grant Program discussion here and read the presentation here.