The Hancock County Commissioners, the Hancock Public Health Department and the Blanchard River Watershed Partnership are pleased to announce that the Ohio EPA has awarded a $150,000 grant to help low income families in the county replace/repair failing Home Septic Treatment Systems (HSTS). The grant will start in May 2016 and applies to Hancock County residents.

Assistance is available to income-eligible homeowners to repair or replace their home sewage treatment system. Assistance will cover 50%, 85% or 100% of the cost based on annual income and number of people in the household. Coverage includes cost of labor, permits, design, and materials to install the sewer system and to abandon the old septic system.  Households will be assisted on a first come first serve basis until all funds have been expended. 

In order to qualify for assistance:

• The applicant must own and live in the home as their primary residence. (Rental properties are not eligible)
• The applicant must meet or be below the Poverty Limits for the number of people living in the residence.

For information contact the Hancock Public Health Department by calling 419.424.7870 or Phil Martin, Blanchard River Watershed Coordinator at 419.422.6487.

The BRWP represents the six counties of the Blanchard River Watershed is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving water quality through developing citizen involvement and watershed action plans. While not related to the NW Ohio Flood Mitigation Partnership, BRWP works in cooperation with the communities and local agencies on water resource and environmental issues. Volunteers are welcome to join activities at any time. Learn more about the Blanchard River on the BRWP website at www.BlanchardRiver.org.