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Community Development administers the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant programs, such as the Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant, and the HOME Program. Funds are used to provide community enhancements, home ownership opportunities, social services, infrastructure projects and economic development initiatives.

The Community Development Division provides many community enhancements, from emergency home repairs and home ownership opportunities for low income persons, to the provision of social services, major infrastructure projects and economic development initiatives. The division's primary mission is to address the housing, economic, and social needs of low to moderate income households, the homeless and others with special needs. Some of these services include:

• The Emergency Assistance Program provides assistance to correct spontaneous and life threatening situations in the home.
• The Low Interest Loan Program provides assistance to promote centralized neighborhood revitalization.
• Federal Funds Administration administers and regulates compliance of Community Development Block Grant funds.

If you or someone that you know is an owner/occupant of a home located within St. Joseph city limits and you would like to have your house considered for our program, please call Carol at 271- 4609 or email her by clicking here.

Housing Rehabilitation Programs    MPEG

Frequently Asked Questions

Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report
Community Development Block Grant Home Investment Partnerships Programs for July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012

Community Development 4th Year Annual Plan 2013/2014

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FAQs

Is any assistance available to make repairs to our home?

Yes. The community development division has several programs to assist homeowners. These programs are the Low Interest Loan Program/Deferred Payment Loan, and the Emergency Assistance Program.

How do I qualify for these programs?

The applicant must meet the income guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which is adjusted yearly. The house must be the primary residence, and you must have lived in the home for at least six months. You also must provide documentation showing ownership of your house (recorded Warranty Deed or Deed of Trust); and have current copies of your 1040 and W-2 forms, and verification of benefits for the past 12 months.

What happens if I qualify?

If approved, your name will be placed on a waiting list. A rehabilitation manager will do an inspection of your home and document the repairs that need to be made. We will then advertise for bids, prepare the contracts, and monitor the work for the homeowner.

What are the interest rates?

Loans will be at an interest rate of 0% to 4% based upon the property owner’s ability to pay, not to exceed a 30-year term. A deferred payment loan may be offered to applicants 62 years of age or older and/or permanently disabled whose incomes do not permit the repayment of an amortizing loan. Mortgage of said property will be filed as security for the loan.

What is the Emergency Assistance Program?

Emergency assistance is provided to eligible property owners with spontaneous situations that would be considered life threatening, such as electrical hazards, structural failure, hazardous plumbing, etc. Emergency assistance for work required up to $5,000 will be in the form of a grant and/or loan. Emergency assistance for work over $5,000 will be in the form of a deferred payment loan for qualified applicants age 62 or older or permanently disabled, or a low interest loan (0-4%) with the interest rate based upon the property owner’s ability to pay not to exceed a 20-year term.