SIDNEY — The economy continues to slowly yet steadily improve in Shelby County.

“Budgets are still tight but the state has provided incentives to communities that collaborate for grant funding,” said Dianna Reisinger, executive director of the Shelby County Regional Planning Commission. “Shelby County and the city of Sidney have received a sizeable incentive by partnering for PY-15 CHIP funding. This grant helps to improve the housing stock in Sidney and Shelby County for low- to moderate- income households.”

Her report continues:

Applications for home repair assistance are being accepted in our office at 129 E. Court Street on the 2nd floor of the Annex Monday through Thursdays between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8:30 a.m. until noon. For questions, call 937-498-7273. Current income limits for qualification are as follows:

Number of people in the family and income limits:

1 person, $36,200

2 people, $41,400

3 people, $46,550

4 people, $51,700

5 people, $55,850

6 people, $60,000

7 people, $64,150

8-plus people, $68,250

Improvements will begin this year to the New Choices Shelter with the help of PY-15 Community Development Allocation grant funds including replacing the heating system. Certain water lines in Jackson Center will also be replaced with a portion of this grant funding.

Affirmatively furthering fair housing rights in Shelby County is an important component of receiving this grant funding. Anyone who feels that they have a fair housing complaint should call me at the number listed above.

The year 2016 will continue to have its challenges as far as budgets and the economy but our dedication to maintain strong partnerships through collaboration will not only conquer these challenges but will bring with it a new understanding of what needs to be done. To that end, I commit my service.