The City of Casey successfully completed a nearly half-million dollar housing rehabilitation program that brought nine homes up to code and assisted 19 low-to-moderate income residents, officials announced during a public hearing Monday evening.

Kevin McReynolds of the Coles County Regional Planning & Development Commission (CCRP-DC) presented the closeout report for Community Development Block Grant project #20-243003 during the 15-minute hearing that preceded the regular city council meeting.

The $498,279 grant, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity under the Illinois Community Development Block Grant Program, was fully expended with all funds going toward rehabilitating homes for qualifying residents.

“The grant assisted a total of 19 low to moderate income persons and resulted in no displacement of residents during construction,” McReynolds reported, highlighting the program’s success in improving housing conditions without forcing residents to relocate during the work.

All households served under the grant met low-to-moderate income (LMI) criteria, ensuring the federal funds reached their intended beneficiaries. The 100% LMI qualification rate demonstrates effective targeting of the program’s resources to residents most in need of housing assistance.

The housing rehabilitation work brought the nine properties up to current building codes, addressing safety and habitability issues that property owners might not have been able to afford on their own. Such programs typically address electrical, plumbing, roofing, heating, and structural issues that pose health or safety concerns.

The successful completion of the grant project positions Casey well for future Community Development Block Grant applications, as demonstrated performance and proper administration of federal funds strengthens applications for additional funding.

Mayor Mike Nichols opened the floor for public questions during the hearing, but no residents spoke. Council members also had no questions about the project completion, suggesting satisfaction with the program’s implementation and results.

The public hearing, required as part of the federal grant closeout process, provides transparency and allows community input on how the funds were utilized. The lack of questions or concerns indicates the program was well-administered and achieved its intended outcomes.

CCRP-DC served as the grant administrator, handling the technical aspects of the federal program and ensuring compliance with all requirements. This regional approach allows smaller communities like Casey to access federal funding that might be difficult to manage without professional grant administration assistance.

The housing rehabilitation program represents significant investment in Casey’s residential infrastructure and demonstrates the city’s commitment to maintaining affordable housing options for low-and moderate-income residents.