By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Applications are now being taken for Decatur’s Beautification Program for 2025.
Operated by the Mayor’s Youth Council, the program provides matching funds for projects to improve the exterior of residential properties within the city limits. City council administers the program and has final say on all matters.
The program operates much like the city’s facade and 50/50 sidewalk programs. A resident applies for a grant, detailing its proposed project and the cost; if approved, the city match the amount requested.
The maximum amount awarded is $500, or $750 if submitted with an immediate neighbor.
Renters are eligible, but the property owners must be identified on the application.
Following are examples of eligible projects and expenditures:
* Lawns, landscape beds or planter areas.
* Tree and/or shrub maintenance or installation.
* Flowers, shrubs, bushes or other vegetation.
* Exterior washing or painting of the primary building.
* Painting or staining of porches, decks or fence exterior paint/primer/stain.
* Repair or placement of gutters, soffit, fascia, porches, and/or decks, including railings and steps.
Note: All projects must be visible from the public sidewalk or right of way.
A property which has any of the following conditions is not eligible:
* Not located within the city limits of Decatur.
* Owner owes the City of Decatur any money or debt.
* Properties owned by a current elected official of the City of Decatur or by a government entity.
NOTE: Businesses are not eligible.
City council has budgeted $15,000 for the initiative.
The deadline to apply is by 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 24.
Full details and application forms may be found at: www.cityofdecatur.in.gov
When the program was launched last year, Mayor Dan Rickord said: “The whole idea for this is we’d love to see things looking nice as we drive around the city. I’m excited to see some areas cleaned up, and to have these students work on this project.”
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