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Feb. 29, 2008
For immediate release
For more information, contact:
Lesley Bennish or Chuck Cantrell (573) 265-2993
Contractors Needed Now For New Renovation Projects
$255,000 -worth of housing improvements planned in Meramec Region
Contractors are needed for new housing renovation projects beginning soon in the Meramec Region, announced Chuck Cantrell, community development specialist with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). Some $255,000 will be invested in housing improvements, and at least 13 homes will be improved.
The Missouri Housing Development Corporation has awarded Meramec Community Enhancement Corporation (MCEC)—MRPC's 501(c)3 counterpart—two grant to continue housing renovation projects in the region. One grant is for $52,000 and will target the city of Hermann. The second grant is for $203,500 and can be used across the eight-county Meramec Region.
"We have quite a bit of housing renovation work to do, and we need to expand our contractor base in order to get the work done in a timely fashion," explained Cantrell, who coordinates rehab projects. The renovation work may include insulation, window replacement, siding and heating updates. There may be some lead reduction work as well, which could include windows, siding, soffit, fascia and doors.
Housing renovations projects—using other state grants—are already underway in Potosi, Leasburg and Cuba.
Prospective contractors for upcoming projects must complete a two-page application, available through MRPC’s website at www.meramecregion.org. The
application requests client, supplier, financial references and information on past work experience. To work on this rehab project, contractors must carry liability insurance and workers compensation, if required. Contractors must also be registered with the Secretary of State's Office and cannot be on any federal debarred list.
Contractors addressing lead issues also must be certified in HUD's safe work practices. MRPC will be conducting a training class on March 14 to assist interested contractors in becoming certified to work on this project.
Cantrell will prepare a work write-up for each home and will host a walk-through so contractors can see and discuss work to be performed. The work will then be bid, and the homeowner will select the contractor to be used. Renovation work usually takes about 45 days per home.
"If you are a contractor that enjoys renovation jobs, we need you to fill out an application," Cantrell said. "We several homes to improve."
Contractors needing more information or wanting to complete an application can request a copy from Cantrell or Lesley Bennish at (573) 265-2993 or by email at ccantrell at meramecregion.org or lbennish at meramecregion.org. Contractor applications can also be picked up at the MRPC office at 4 Industrial Drive in St. James, and are available online at www.meramecregion.org
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