MARGATE – The city was the lead agency this year in the annual application for funding to raise homes that are in danger of flooding due to rising sea levels and inundation during storms.
The city was awarded $3,747,872 to raise 18 homes in Margate, Ventnor, Brigantine, Somers Point and Cape May City.
Grant consultant Jim Rutala of Rutala Associates of Linwood has been applying for the grant each year.
“So far, we have raised well over 100 homes in eligible communities,” he said.
The homeowners apply in advance of submitting the grant application, Rutala said, noting he met with this year’s recipients earlier this week to review grant parameters and processes.
“This is a reimbursement grant, and it covers engineering, architectural and elevation costs,” Rutala said. “Homeowners will be reimbursed up to 75% of eligible costs at the end of the project. It takes a long time, but it’s a big help with the cost of raising the home. They are also eligible for a stipend to relocate while the home is being elevated.”
Although applications for this year have already been submitted, residents may be interested in applying for future rounds of the grant, which is provided through FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance Program, Rutala said.
“If they are interested, they can apply by contacting their local construction official,” he said.
The grant requires the applicant to be enrolled in the federal flood insurance program, and they must continue to maintain flood insurance in the future, he said.
“The whole idea is to reduce future flooding risks,” he said, cautioning that the program is not for someone who wants to raise their home right away.
“It takes several years to get through the process, but it’s well worth it,” he said.
Rutala’s firm will provide Margate with grant management services for the program at a cost of $7,100 per property.
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