Willow Glen Resident

News

Housing renovation program in Gardner gets good response

By Mayra Flores De Marcotte

The Housing Renovation program appears to have garnered more interest this time around.

"About 21 people showed up, of which we received 15 applications," said San Jose Housing spokeswoman Emily Moody.

The numbers were higher than expected, Moody said.

Moody anticipates some homeowners will drop out, which is typical during the process. So far she is pleased.

"We've already completed the home inspections and have had no scare-offs as a result," Moody said.

The Housing Renovation program was put together by the Greater Gardner Coalition in collaboration with the San Jose Housing department. The coalition encompasses Gardner, North Willow Glen and Gregory Plaza neighborhoods.

The program has $130,000 available through two grants that are designed to deal with simple repairs for health and safety, and aesthetic repairs to beautify the neighborhood.

Residents were given a one-page application during a July meeting in order to streamline the process. The prior program required residents to complete a multi-paged loan and grant applications.

"Of the pre-applications we received at the meeting, 95 percent already qualify salary-wise," Moody said.

The official application was sent out to residents Aug. 22 and they have until Sept. 15 to apply for up to $25,000 for home repairs or beautification.