Worcester announces $1.05 million countywide CHIP award to fund emergency home repairs

City staff told Worcester City Council Tuesday that the city-led CHIP (Community Housing Improvement Program) was awarded $1,050,000 for the county program year. Jonathan, who presented the item, said the city administers the program in partnership with the (transcribed) Weymouthropolitan Housing Authority and will use the funds to support emergency repairs for roughly 21–29 homes serving low- to moderate-income residents.

Eligibility: Jonathan said Wayne County’s definition of low- to moderate-income for the program is an individual earning about $50,000 or less; he said that covers roughly half of Worcester’s residents. The city has reopened its waiting list and will accept applications for the new funding period.

Per-household amounts and lead remediation: In response to council questions, Jonathan said most projects typically run from $10,000 to $20,000 but that lead-based paint remediation can exceed $70,000 when required; in those cases the city can pursue a waiver from the state (Ohio Development Services Agency). He also noted that ZIP code 44691 is lead-elevated, which factors into remediation planning.

Why it matters: The award will fund emergency home repairs intended to make housing safe and habitable for low- and moderate-income residents across the county. The council requested staff to publicize the application window and eligibility details to constituents.

What’s next: Staff will publish application materials and manage applications from the waiting list; specific per-project awards will be determined during program intake and will follow state program rules for caps and waivers.