City Seeks Federal Grants to Rehabilitate Run-Down Areas

The City Council is seeking about $650,000 in federal grants to improve run-down parts of town and has invited residents to review the grant proposals at a public hearing tonight..

If awarded, the Community Development Block Grants will help residents and business owners improve aging properties in older sections of town.

The proposed grant package includes:

* $150,000 to provide loans to landlords for the rehabilitation of low-income rental properties, without forcing them to raise rents;

* $150,000 to make urgent repairs at the 68-year-old Casa Romantica, the city’s historic landmark;

* $150,000 to help low-income homeowners make needed repairs; and

* $125,000 to provide grants and below-interest loans for store owners to revamp aging storefronts.

The meeting is at 7 p.m. at City Council chambers, 100 Avenida Presidio. Information: (714) 361-8200.