A program in existence until about five years ago in Summit Hill, which provides funds for refurbishing homes could be revived.

The council was told it has $250,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds for the program and will lose the money if it doesn't use it.David Unterberg of Community Programs, Allentown, said none of this money comes from the general fund; that it all is in a CDBG account and is earmarked only for housing improvements to financially qualifying residents.The council agreed to enter into an agreement with Unterberg to administer the program, stipulating that no project can cost more than $1,500 in administration fee besides out-of-pocket expenses for Unterberg.The borough isn't ready to receive applications for the project ... yet.Unterberg said he initially worked with the borough, beginning about 1980, on the housing project and it continued until about five years ago. He said in that span borough residents have received about $2 million for home improvements.Mayor Paul McArdle questioned Unterberg on his fees for administering the program, noting that high fees were what led the project to lapse. The borough's solicitor, attorney Joseph Matika, said the agreement being drawn up with Unterberg states he can assess the borough a maximum of $1,500 per project.Unterberg said the $250,000 has been dormant for the past five years and isn't getting any interest."It is in jeopardy of going back to the state," he said.He said Summit Hill and Tamaqua are the only two local boroughs with money available in the account.At one time, Summit Hill had a waiting list for residents who needed improvements to their residences. People would sign up, then undergo screening to determine if they meet financial criteria.After this, an inspection is done on the residence to determine what is needed to bring the home up to standards. Work can include the removal of asbestos shingles and making the heating system energy efficient.The homeowner selects three contractors from a list of qualified contractors the borough has compiled. From the list, the contractors submit bids to do the work.No timetable was given when the project will go into effect.