Homeowner ‘Hurricane Hardening’ Assistance Available

By  //  September 7, 2012

Melbourne Residential Retrofit Program

BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – Financial assistance is available for Melbourne homeowners who want to make improvements that strengthen buildings against windstorm damage.

The city of Melbourne is offering financial assistance to homeowners wanting to strengthen their residences from windstorm damage. (Shutterstock image)

The city of Melbourne has been notified that a $150,000 grant is to be provided by the Florida Division of Emergency Management to fund a ‘Melbourne Residential Retrofit Program’ for homeowners.

Resident who qualify can receive funding for eligible “hurricane hardening” improvements to Melbourne homes including hurricane shutters, gable end bracing, and anchor straps.

Homeowners are required to provide matching funds on a dollar for dollar basis and may receive a maximum of $10,000.

In some cases, income-eligible homeowners may qualify for up to $5,000 from the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program to help meet the required match.

Because of the limited funding as well as a limited amount of time for spending of grant funds, homeowners wishing to take advantage of this opportunity should apply as soon as possible.

Qualified applicants are to be served on a first-qualified, first-ready, first-assisted basis until grant funds are exhausted.

If interested persons, call the Melbourne Housing and Community Development Office at 321-674-5734 or send an e-mail message of interest to housingcdbg@melbourneflorida.org.