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Oct. 6, 2008 For more information, contact: Free Budgeting Workshop Planned Oct. 14 in St. James 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 budgeting workshop on Oct. 14 at Meramec Regional Planning Commission, 4 Industrial Drive, St. James. The workshop is scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Chuck Cantrell of Meramec Regional Planning commission will help potential homebuyers understand budgeting, including how much money they make, how much they spend and what they spend it on. Cantrell will also help participants look at ways to cut expenses so they can save money for larger purchases, such as a home. The Oct. 14 class is offered at no cost, on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration is requested. To register, persons should contact Cantrell by Oct. 10 at (573) 265-2993. Free training classes are a part of the group’s efforts to help prepare first-time homebuyers for homeownership. MCEC also offers newly remodeled homes to first-time income-eligible homebuyers and assist with down-payment and closing costs. MCEC currently has a two-bedroom home for sale in Cuba. Persons needing more information may call (573) 265-2993 or 265-4200. 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. |