The deadline is next week for smaller Iowa towns to apply for state money to start cleaning up problem buildings.
A program through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources offers grants to perform asbestos inspections on what are considered “neglected” structures.
The DNR’s Scott Flagg says the funding is through the agency’s Derelict Building Grant Program.
“We’re making the program available for communities of 5,000 or fewer if they have a commercial or public building that they currently own, they’re welcome to apply for the program,” Flagg says. “We have funding available to assist with asbestos inspections only at this time.”
He notes it’s a change in procedure from past years due to an unexpected windfall.
“We’ve had the Derelict Building Grant Program in place since 2011,” he says, “but what we’re doing right now is a little different that what we’ve done in the past. We had our funding round this year but we had some projects decline the award, so we have extra money available and we’re looking to help out some additional communities.”
Applications will be accepted through August 21st. It’s a one-time opportunity to apply. A similar grant program will be offered in February that offers funds for deconstruction, renovation and structural engineering work. Learn more at www.iowadnr.gov or by calling Flagg at 515-725-8318.
By Pat Powers, KQWC, Webster City