Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, September 14, 1995 TAG: 9509150005
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: W-5 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: S.D. HARRINGTON STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
But, TAP Rehab Manager Lanell Otey, who heads the program, remains positive, she said, because Salem and other local governments have shown interest in the program and will be more likely to give money in January or February.
"I can understand that the money is already allocated" this late in the year, Otey said.
Soliciting local governments for funds is a new approach for the home repair program, said Otey, who has headed it only two months. Normally, groups such as the League of Older Americans and the Appalachian Power Company crisis program give money.
Several of the governments Otey has solicited are telling her to come back early next year, when budgets are made up, and they would be willing to help, she said.
Salem councilmen had several questions, including why the need wasn't presented during budget time.
Also, councilman Alex Brown noticed that several households needing assistance that were presented to the Council had Salem addresses but were actually in Roanoke County.
Brown suggested the money be given on a per-need basis.
"That would eliminate using our taxpayers money for other localities," Brown said.
But Vice Mayor Sonny Tarpley motioned not to match the funds until it could be requested when the Council plans its budget.
"We have budget hearings in May and a public hearing for service agencies," Brown said.
"I would strongly suggest that you get your name in for that time, and we'll be glad to help you."
Otey presented a list of about 15 households in the Salem area that are in need of repairs from roof leaks to collapsed ceilings.
Many of those needing repairs are elderly people on fixed incomes, she said.
The waiting list for emergency repairs has increased this year, Otey said, with about 300 households needing repairs in TAP's service area, which covers Rockbridge, Alleghany, Craig, Roanoke and Botetourt counties.
Because of a lack of matching funds last year, the program has been awarded less money this year, she said.
About $15,000 that had been granted from the Department of Housing and Community Development to EHRP last year was not used because funds must be matched from other sources dollar-for-dollar.
"Whatever money we don't spend" is taken back, she said.
by CNB