Office of Urban Assistance Urban Weatherization Initiative Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity Warren Ribley, Director Karin Norington-Reaves, Deputy Director

Purpose To create and implement policies to address the pressing economic needs of residents, businesses and stakeholders in the state's urban areas. Recommend urban economic policies to the General Assembly and Governor relating to a wide variety of topics including, but not limited to: housing, urban youth unemployment, and business incubators. Gather and provide information on revitalization efforts of urban areas to public and private entities;

Key Priorities Employment Opportunities Grant Program Illinois Fresh Food Financing Initiative Urban Weatherization Initiative

Phases Phase IPreliminary Information Sessions Phase IIRFP Sessions/Resource Fairs Phase IIIConsumer Information Sessions

Urban Weatherization Initiative Improve energy efficiency & reduce costs in disadvantaged communities Create jobs and increase skills for under/unemployed Stimulate local economy

Jobs Initiative Energy Auditors/Assessors Final Inspectors Skilled Weatherization Workforce Direct/In-direct jobs

Overview DCEO administers with 9-member Board Competitive-bid 2-step process: RFQRequest for Qualifications RFPRequest for Proposals Board will specify: Curriculum/Training Standards Certifications Eligibility Requirements

Overview Grant awards not to exceed $500,000 Cost per unit may NOT exceed $6,500 Not more than 15% of grant award for administrative costs Job skills training Support Services

Job Skills Training Substantive weatherization skills training targeting local community members, including unemployed/underemployed Certification Hands-on experience Stipends

Supportive Services Remove or diminish barriers to success Includes: Stipends Transportation Work Gear Child care

What can grant funds be used for? Repair/replacement of inefficient heating or cooling units Addressing air infiltration issues (i.e. weather stripping, caulking, window/door replacement)

Funds can also be used for: Repair/replacement of water heaters Insulation (pipe, duct, wall, attic, etc.) Training in weatherization skills Basic skills training (including supportive services)

Who is eligible to apply for grant $$$s ? Any private, public, or non-profit entity that offers or demonstrates a desire and ability to provide weatherization services that decrease the impact of energy costs on low-income areas and also incorporates an effective local employment strategy.

What type of home is eligible? Owner-occupied Single family homes Multi-family buildings (6 units or less)

Targeted areas Census tracts in urban areas with 20%+ living in poverty, high rate of unemployment (or underemployment) High concentration of families with income 60% of AMI Highest energy costs in relation to income

Questions???? Karin Norington-Reaves or Charlene Raickett (312) (312) Office of Urban Assistance Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity