The city of Detroit has begun shifting resources to away from mostly empty neighborhoods to areas that are stabile and growing.
One of the biggest changes, according to Free Press reporter Cecil Angel, involves the citywide drawing for the Senior Emergency Home Repair program, which is funded by Community Development Block Grants.
Now, those living in neighborhoods deemed distressed, like are not eligible to receive the grants.
Similarly, the city's Minor Home Repair program disqualifies residents living in distressed areas.
"The value of your home may be worth $15,000," said Karla Henderson, group executive for Planning and Facilities for the city. "Why should we put $25,000 into the home?"
However, in stable neighborhoods such as Sherwood Forest, a person who meets the eligibility requirements of 80% of the average median income may now receive up to $75,000 to fix up their homes.
"It's not politically friendly for some people, but it's necessary for the long-term future of the city," Henderson said. "That's a significant shift for us. It's going to affect hundreds of people."
