City issues home improvement vouchers for low-income households

Need a hammer, drill or even a lawn mower for that odd job around the house?

Starting Tuesday, the city of Costa Mesa will issue 20 vouchers for up to $500 each to a limited number of low-income homeowners so they can rent tools needed for exterior home improvement projects. Homeowners can qualify for the tool rental program on a first-come, first-served basis.

They will have 90 days to redeem the voucher by renting non-painting related tools from a city-approved vendor.

To qualify, an applicant must live within the city limits, own and live in a single-family home, and be able to show proof of their low-income status, said Silvia Kennerson, a management analyst with the city’s Housing and Community Development office.

“The city just wants to encourage homeowners to make exterior home improvements because we believe that it will beautify their neighborhoods,” Kennerson said

The $10,000 is from Community Development Block Grants.

To request an application, call (714) 754-4892.

Imran Vittachi