The Blocks to Neighborhoods Grant Program provides direct grants up to $2,500 for exterior property upgrades. Bringing together at least three property owners in each neighborhood, the program looks to raise values, build community and make change block-by-block.
The Blocks to Neighborhoods Program provides grants up to $2,500 per participating property. Owners are required to put up at least 50% match. For example, if a project receives $2,500, the property owner will need to invest at least $1,250 for a total project cost of $3,750. At least three property owners in the same neighborhood must participate on one application.
Blocks to Neighborhoods applications
Funding for this program includes $40 thousand in matching funds from the Ottumwa Legacy Foundation.
Can landlords participate?
This program is available to all property owners, including landlords.
Can renters participate?
Projects to improve rental property are eligible for the grant, however, we do ask that property owners and not tenants complete the application.
Where does the money for this program come from?
This project is funded by City of Ottumwa Capital Improvement funds and a generous $40 thousand contribution by the Ottumwa Legacy Foundation.
Is there an income requirement for participation?
No, there is no income requirement. Participants must be able to provide 50% match for their grant request. Grants are paid as a reimbursement after the project is complete.
What is considered a neighborhood?
We generally expect each property owner on an application to have line-of-sight with the other properties on their application.
Why do I have to form a neighborhood team?
This program is designed to make lasting improvements block-by-block. In order to maximize the impact we can have, we require at least three neighbors to work together on an application.
Is there a minimum or maximum project cost?
There is no project too small or two large. We can reimburse selected projects up to $2,500 with the 50% match. You’re free to request a smaller award for smaller projects or embark on a larger project with your own additional funding.
What kinds of projects are eligible?
Eligible projects include exterior improvements to residential dwellings including siding, paint, doors, windows, gutters, roofing, landscaping, porch and deck improvements, stucco and masonry repair and more. Improvements that create community space on vacant lots are also encouraged such as parklets and gardens. For these types of projects, reach out to the Planning Department before applying, 641-683-0606.
What kinds of projects are ineligible?
The following are ineligible projects: Non-residential buildings, interior improvements, construction of new dwellings or accessory buildings and projects which primarily benefit a home-based occupation.
When is my application due?
Deadline extended: Applications for 2023 are due by July 26, 2023.
When will I be told if my project is approved?
Approved projects will be announced after July 26, 2023. All applicants will receive notification stating whether or not their project was selected.
Do I need to have a bid from a contractor before I apply?
A bid from a contractor is not required to apply, however, we will only award up to the amount requested in the application. If you receive a bid after the award is granted, your award cannot be increased.
Can neighbors work together/share bids from a contractor?
Yes, we encourage neighbors to work together. However, make sure that your contractor itemizes costs for each property so that each neighbor receives the correct reimbursement.
What does competitive grant?
Unfortunately, we anticipate that we will receive more applications that we can afford to fund. Applications will be evaluated and scored against each other with only the highest scoring projects selected.
What if I spend more than I was initially approved for?
Unfortunately, we can only reimburse up to what we initially award. Make sure you carefully estimate costs for your initial application to avoid exceeding what is awarded.
If I cannot complete the work, can I receive partial reimbursement?
If you are falling behind on your project, contact the Planning Department as soon as possible. Partial reimbursement can be available depending on the project.
If I need to back out of my project, will it hurt my neighbors’ reimbursement?
No, after projects are awarded, each property owner’s reimbursement is handled independently. If circumstances change and you need to back out, your neighbors will still be able to complete the program.
How long do I have to complete the work?
Projects should be completed by December 31, 2023.
What happens if my contractor or supplies are delayed?
If you expect that you will not meet the project deadline, contact the Planning Department as soon as possible. An extension may be available.
Will my taxes increase because of the improvements I make to my home?
Some improvements can affect the assessed value of your home. If you make improvements that increase the assessed valuation of your property by more than 10% you are likely eligible to have the taxes on that new value abated for 3 years. Contact the Planning Department to learn more about tax abatement.
Do I need a permit to complete my project?
Most projects will not require a permit, such as reroofing, siding, painting, etc. Projects that make any structural changes to a building or include electrical or plumbing work may require permit. For information on permits, contact the Building and Code Enforcement Department at 641-683-0650.
How does reimbursement work?
After July 26, 2023, all selected projects will receive an award letter. Property owners should submit material and labor invoices after the project is complete for reimbursement.
I did the project work myself. Can I be reimbursed for my labor?
We can only reimburse billed contractor labor. For Do It Yourself projects, we can only reimburse for materials.
Can I pay for work or materials prior to receiving formal approval?
We will not award projects that start before receiving an award letter. You are free to purchase materials before the awards are made, but you do so at your own risk.
Can I submit multiple reimbursement claims?
All reimbursement claims for each property owner should be submitted at the same time. We can only issue one reimbursement check per property owner.
