MRPC News Release
Feb. 15, 2006
For immediate release
For more information, contact:
Chuck Cantrell (573) 265-2993
FREE HOMEOWNERSHIP WORKSHOP PLANNED FEB. 28 IN STEELVILLE
ST. JAMES—The Meramec Regional Planning Commission, in cooperation with the Meramec Community Enhancement Corporation and the Phelps County PHA Family Self-Sufficiency Program, will host a free homeownership workshop Feb. 28 at the Crawford County Courthouse, 302 Main St. in Steelville.
The workshop, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., will focus on FDIC's MoneySmart program, which helps future homebuyers plan for homeownership. The training will take place in the Jury Room at the Courthouse.
Presenters will be Doug Stephens, housing/family self-sufficiency coordinator for the Phelps County Public Housing Agency, and Chuck Cantrell, an MRPC community development specialist. Cantrell will also present information on the MCEC Homeownership program. Through its program, MCEC purchases homes, renovates them to like-new condition complete with new appliances and sells them to first-time, income-eligible homebuyers. In doing so, MCEC also assists with down payment and closing costs. Two homes are currently available in Owensville.
The Feb. 28 class is offered at no cost, on a first-come, first-served basis. Preregistration is requested. To register, persons should contact Cantrell by Feb. 27 at (573) 265-2993.
MRPC is an active, voluntary council of local governments serving Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. The 51-member volunteer board, made up of elected officials and appointed representatives, works to enhance the quality of life in the region. A professional staff assists member communities and counties in the areas of economic and community development, environmental planning, business loans, ordinance codification and housing. Since its formation some 35 years ago, MRPC has secured in excess of $40 million worth of grants to benefit specific cities and counties in the region. MRPC also provides administration of the Phelps County PHA, which offers rental assistance to very low income families in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Washington counties, and Phelps County, outside the city of Rolla.
Persons needing more information may call (573) 265-2993 or 265-4200.