Title
ConnectFREE Program (NB)
Explanation
ConnectFREE is a program designed to provide funding for low-income neighborhoods that want to convert homes from untreated well water to the GRU potable water supply system. The program also covers extension costs, connection fees, meter charges, and on-site plumbing costs. Funding fort this program is being made available through the Alachua County SHIP Program.
Neighborhoods located outside the corporate limits of Gainesville, but within the GRU service area, may be eligible for ConnectFREE. The selection of participating neighborhoods will depend on the number of families that qualify for SHIP funding based on total family income and the availability of SHIP funds.
Once an interested family's application is approved, conversion will occur at no cost to the property owner. The household will receive a monthly water bill, once the family begins using GRU water.
Only owner occupied homes are eligible for the program. Total family income must fall within State of Florida low and very low-income criteria to be eligible for ConnectFREE.
Recommendations
The City Commission authorize the Mayor or her designee to execute a contract with the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners to provide water service to low- to very-low income families residing on SE 50th Street, bordered by SE Hawthorne Road to the South, SE 49th Drive to the west, and SE 51st Street to the east, for an amount not to exceed $62,000.
Fiscal Note
Funding for the program in the amount of $62,000 will be provided through an Alachua County SHIP Single Family Housing Development Program Subrecipient Agreement. There is no fiscal impact to GRU.
Drafter
Prepared by: Albert E. White, Community Relations Director
Submitted by: Michael L. Kurtz, General Manager