State seeks public comment on request to weatherize more homes
Public hearing set for March 27 in Olympia
The Washington State Department of Commerce will conduct a public hearing from 11 a.m. to noon, March 27, 2014, in Olympia to receive comments on a request for additional federal funds to weatherize homes. The hearing is at Town Square Building 5, 1011 Plum Street SE, Olympia, 98504, 2nd Floor Conference Room #207.
Each year, the state receives federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to reduce the heating costs of low-income families. Federal regulations require 85 percent of this money must be used to help pay heating bills. Only 15 percent can be used to weatherize homes, reducing long-term energy costs. Commerce is seeking a waiver that will allow an additional 10 percent of this year’s money to be used on weatherization work.
Commerce estimates the state may weatherize up to 745 additional homes as a result.
“The goal of the state’s request is to help low-income households reduce their long-term home energy costs,” said LIHEAP Weatherization Program Manager Donna Regan. “It especially helps those with the lowest incomes, who spend a high proportion of their household income for home energy.”
A copy of the draft weatherization waiver request is available:
- Online at www.commerce.wa.gov/housing/weatherization
• By phone at 360.725.2961
• Or by email at donna.regan@commerce.wa.gov
Witten comments are being accepted now, and must be received by March 27, 2014. Mail, email, or deliver to: Donna Regan, LIHEAP Weatherization Program, Commerce Community Services and Housing Division, PO Box 42525, 1011 Plum Street Olympia, WA 98504-2525, donna.regan@commerce.wa.gov.