Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Housing Improving Local Livability (CHILL) Program

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Housing Improving Local Livability (CHILL) Program, administered by the City of Mt. Pleasant and funded by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), is designed to enhance the quality of life for low- and moderate-income homeowners. The program provides financial assistance for essential home improvements, specifically targeting repairs that maintain safety, functionality, and habitability. The initiative is funded through a $423,500 grant from MSHDA, with an additional $50,000 contribution from the City of Mt. Pleasant, bringing the total available funding to $473,500. For the current round, approximately $125,000 remains available for eligible home improvement projects. The CHILL Program's objective is to ensure affordable, safe housing for residents within the City of Mt. Pleasant by facilitating necessary repairs that improve living conditions. The City prioritizes projects that involve the replacement or repair of essential systems, such as furnaces and water heaters, especially when they pose a threat to health or safety. Other repairs may be considered if they address critical issues. However, the program excludes non-essential improvements such as window replacements. Assistance is available in amounts ranging from a minimum of $1,000 up to a maximum of $25,000 per home. Grants under $10,000 are awarded outright, while amounts exceeding $10,000 are structured as zero-interest, zero-payment loans that are forgivable after a five-year occupancy period. Loans are secured via a second mortgage and are forgiven in full if the homeowner remains in the residence for the entire term. To qualify for the program, applicants must meet a range of eligibility criteria. The applicant must be the legal homeowner and occupy the home as a primary residence for at least 12 months prior to applying. Homes must be located within the boundaries of Mt. Pleasant, be at least five years old, and must not be under a land contract. Applicants must also be current on property taxes or have an approved payment plan and carry valid homeowner’s insurance. The program further requires that household income not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For a two-person household, this threshold is currently set at $52,400. Manufactured homes are eligible only if they are situated on permanent foundations. Applications are accepted between January 15, 2026, and February 27, 2026, or until funds are depleted, whichever comes first. Submission may be made either in person at Mt. Pleasant City Hall or electronically via email. All applications must include a full set of required documents, including proof of insurance, income verification, tax returns, and a copy of the warranty deed. Only complete applications are considered received. Funding decisions are communicated via mail, and successful applicants are required to participate in various post-award activities such as inspections and project documentation. Evaluation and contractor selection are overseen by the City in partnership with MSHDA guidelines. Contractors must be licensed, carry appropriate insurance, and meet all local and federal standards, including those related to environmental safety and lead abatement. Homeowners are involved in the contractor selection process and must attend pre-construction meetings. Periodic inspections and final reporting are part of the program’s compliance requirements. Questions or requests for assistance with the application process can be directed to Lauren Baker, the City's Grant Coordinator. She can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at (989) 779-5379. Appointments are available for one-on-one support. Full details, application forms, and guidelines can be accessed at the official program site or directly from City Hall. The CHILL Program emphasizes fair housing and non-discriminatory practices and is committed to inclusive outreach and transparency throughout the process.

Submit early to ensure funding; incomplete applications will not be considered; assistance available by appointment