CLEVELAND, April 28 2006 - Mayor Frank G. Jackson announced today that Cleveland's popular Paint Refund Program begins Monday, May 1st.

“The City of Cleveland invites its residents to improve the exterior of their homes with a fresh coat of paint this summer through the City's 2006 Paint Refund Program,” said Mayor Jackson. “We have been able to help thousands of Cleveland homeowners through this program. It improves neighborhood image and pride, and increases quality of life throughout Cleveland.”

The Paint Refund Program provides refunds to Cleveland homeowners who wish to paint the exteriors of their homes this summer. 1,531 units were painted in 2005 and $400,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are allocated for the 2006 program.

Homeowners, as well as tenants, who meet U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department (HUD) income guidelines, are welcome to apply for the program. Refunds cover the cost of up to $400.00 in paint and materials, but not labor. Applications must be received by July 31st and the painting must be completed by October 31st. Inspections are conducted before refunds are made.

Several paint suppliers are offering discounts to program participants. Applicants who require credit vouchers instead of refunds to purchase paint may contact one of the 23 participating neighborhood nonprofit agencies. Names and telephone numbers of agencies can be obtained by calling the Cleveland Department of Community Development.

The Department of Community Development's Division of Neighborhood Services administers the first-come, first-served program. Interested Cleveland residents can obtain application forms by visiting Room 302 of City Hall, 601 Lakeside Ave., by calling 216/664-4053 or 216/664-2045, or by visiting the City’s Web site at www.cleveland-oh.gov.

*HUD Income Guidelines – Paint Refund Program

1 Person	$34,350	4 Person	$49,100	7 Person	$60,900
2 Person	$39,300	5 Person	$53,050	8 Person	$64,800
3 Person	$44,200	6 Person	$56,950