Applications Now Being Accepted For County Healthy Homes Production Program

Homeowners and renters in Cortland County have a new resource to help turn aging properties into safer spaces. The Cortland County Health Department (CCHD) officially announced the launch of the Cortland County Healthy Homes Production Program on Monday. The joint effort with the Cortland County Community Action Program (CAPCO) and the Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI) aims to identify and eliminate serious health hazards in local residences at no cost to those eligible.

The program is funded by a Healthy Homes Production Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The clock is already ticking: officials aim to conduct 50 professional assessments and complete remediation work in approximately 40 homes by November 2028.

Old houses often come with plenty of charm, but they can also harbor hidden dangers that affect long-term health. This program is specifically designed to address “the usual suspects” found in older infrastructure, including lead hazards (typically found in paint and dust), radon exposure, and mold or moisture issues. Every enrolled home will receive a comprehensive Healthy Homes assessment, with recommended repairs based on the specific needs of the household and federal guidelines.

To qualify for these free repairs, residents must meet a few specific criteria. The program is open to both renters and homeowners, provided the residence is located within the grant’s target area in Cortland County and was built prior to 1978. Additionally, applicants must meet HUD income eligibility requirements—generally at or below 80% of the Area Median Income—and property owners must be in good standing regarding taxes and local building codes.

Because funding is limited, the program is prioritizing those at the highest risk. This includes homes where a child has an elevated blood lead level, households with children under the age of 6, and residences housing seniors (62+) or individuals with disabilities. For rental properties, tenants are encouraged to apply, though they will need their landlord’s approval to move forward with the assessment and repairs.

This initiative is a collaborative heavy-lift for the community. While the CCHD acts as the primary grantee, CAPCO serves as the implementation partner, managing everything from intake and eligibility to contractor coordination and project management. Meanwhile, RHI is leading the charge on community outreach to ensure that every corner of the county is aware of these resources. The effort is further supported by the newly formed Healthy Homes/Lead Poisoning Prevention Task Force, which focuses on long-term prevention and local coordination.

Residents who believe their home may be a candidate can check their eligibility and begin the application process immediately. The online eligibility screener is available at hellocortland.fun/healthyhomes. For those who prefer to speak with someone directly, CAPCO can be reached at (607) 344-3112 or via email at weather@capco.org.