Sept. 19, 2005
CONTRACTORS NEEDED NOW FOR NEW RENOVATION PROJECTS
$761,000 -worth of housing improvements planned in Cuba, Potosi
Contractors are needed for new housing renovation projects to start soon in
Cuba and Potosi, announced Chuck Cantrell, housing inspector with the Meramec
Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). Some $761,000 will be invested in housing
improvements, and at least 37 homes will be improved.
The city of Cuba and the city of Potosi have each been awarded housing renovation
grants the Missouri Department of Economic Development Community Development
Block Grant program. The city of Cuba was awarded $417,100 to renovate17 homes
in the area of School Street in Cuba. The city of Potosi was awarded $344,080
to renovate 20 homes in the area of Coleman, Clara, Cordia, N. Mine, Pine and
Teasdale streets in Potosi.
Both cities have hired Meramec Regional Planning Commission to oversee the grant
projects.
"We have a lot 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,"
Cantrell said. 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.
Contractors for this renovation project must complete a two-page application,
available through MRPC. 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 in the near future 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 have a lot of 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@meramecregion.org or lbennish@meramecregion.org. Contractor applications
can also be picked up at the MRPC office at 4 Industrial Drive in St. James.