The sale of a single-family home on Elm Street was the talk of the Bradford City Council meeting Tuesday night.
The home, at 44 Elm St., was constructed by the Office of Economic and Community Development in the city’s Second Ward neighborhood revitalization area.
It sold for $137,500, Sara Andrews, OECD executive director, explained Tuesday night.
“It’s a very high quality home,” she said. “We’re very happy to have new people come into the community.”
The home was purchased by new community members Albert and Alicia Sohnen, according to a resolution passed by council.
Mayor Tom Riel lauded the work of the OECD, saying these new homes help the tax base. “Congratulations on a job well done,” he said, “and I hope we can have more of these coming.”
Andrews addressed council about another matter as well. By the end of this week, random family income surveys will be mailed out to city residents. It is very important that the surveys are filled out and sent back, so the OECD can determine where Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds should be focused.
“Anyone with questions should call our office,” Andrews said. Information will be placed on the OECD’s website as well.
Also at the meeting, council accepted a proposal from Northeastern Environmental Management for an environmental study on land being donated to the city from Hull Electric. Councilman Brad Mangel said after the meeting the measure is “standard to protect the city before the city takes ownership of the property.”
The services will cost $1,500.
Council also approved the filing of a redevelopment assistance capital program grant application to the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget in the amount of $500,000 for the Bradford Family YMCA capital improvement project.
Andrews explained that back in January 2015, the OECD filed a business plan on behalf of the YMCA, proposing a $1.6 million capital improvement project. The project would entail a roof replacement, some work around the pool and other things, she said.
However, “We received word that the state approved half-a-million.” They are still pleased with the amount, and the OECD is working with the YMCA to “put together a smaller scope of work. While it’s a reduced amount, we’re very happy we’re able to secure this to help the ‘Y.’”
Also at the meeting, council authorized filing a grant application with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for equipment for the fire department. The cost for purchasing new radios and upgrading cardiac monitors will be $235,000. Should a grant from FEMA be obtained, it would cover 95 percent of the cost, while the city would be responsible for five percent.
The next council meeting is set for 7 p.m. Nov. 8.
