§ 35-5-305. FINANCIAL OR HARDSHIP ASSISTANCE.

(a)

In general. If a property owner receives a citation and is unable to pay the cost of the repairs or alterations ordered, the property owner may apply to the Department of Planning for financial assistance under any program available through the office, including a loan under the hardship assistance program.

(b)

Eligibility.

(1)

In order to qualify for a loan under the hardship assistance program, the property owner shall demonstrate that his or her income is at or below 50% of the median income in the county.

(2)

In determining eligibility under this section, the county shall consider the income of all occupants of the structure.

(3)

The county may impose additional criteria for eligibility, including a net worth limitation.

(c)

Loan.

(1)

The maximum loan amount is $10,000.

(2)

The proceeds of the loan may be used only to pay the cost of the repairs or alterations ordered by the Code Official.

(3)

The loan constitutes a lien on the premises that is repayable at the time of the sale or transfer of the premises.

(d)

Extension of time. The granting of an application for the hardship assistance program with the Department of Planning is good cause for an extension of time under to § 35-5-104 of this title.

(1988 Code, § 18-91) (Bill No. 46-96, § 3, 1-1-1997; Bill No. 25-01, § 2, 7-1-2004; Bill No. 76-03, § 13, 7-1-2004; Bill No. 122-10, § 15, 1-16-2011; Bill No. 55-11, §§ 1, 2, 10-16-2011)