This article was written by Jorge Roque, Hands on Housing

Client Services Intern from St. Edward’s University

On July 27th of 2015, the city of Austin issued a notice of approval for $1.2 million to nonprofits working in what is known as the “Holly Good Neighborhood,” referring to part of the city “burdened by the Holly Power Plant near Pleasant Valley”. After its original construction, the Holly Power Plant damaged the natural flora along the river.

According the Austin American-Statesman the plant built in 1960 generated noise and fumes. Fires during the 1990’s drew several calls to close the plant down. When it closed in 2007, the city proposed several master plans for the now vacant nine acres. Some plans were opposed by residents in the mostly Hispanic, working class neighborhood. Residents complained their concerns were being ignored in favor of potential commercial development.

The City of Austin’s program is designed to assist long-time neighborhood residents whose homes may have been negatively impacted by the Power Plant. iACT’s Hands on Housing is among the non-profit agencies authorized to provide up to $20,000 per home for repairs. Eligible repairs under the city’s program include; asbestos abatement, foundation damage, dampness, mold growth, weatherization and more. Up to 50  homeowners may qualify for an additional $3,500 in weatherization repairs,including insulation and lighting, on behalf of Austin Energy.

Historically lower-income neighborhood residents can face many challenges to obtaining services. For example, one of Hands on Housing’s past clients had no documentation of his home’s construction despite its occupation by three generations of his family. They could never obtain a residential permit for their house. Hands on Housing is often able to assist homeowners in navigating issues like these to allow them to live safely and comfortably in their homes.