New Utility Conservation Program for Low-Income Homeowners

Cleveland residents living in low-income households may soon see more support for maintaining their homes and reducing monthly utility costs. The City Council has passed emergency ordinance 804-2025, which authorizes the Director of Public Utilities to partner with CHN Housing Partners to manage conservation services for the next two years. This initiative is designed to help households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level lower their energy, water, and sewer expenses through direct home improvements and repairs.

According to the 804-2025-Legislative Summary-CHN Housing Partners, the program will utilize an anticipated $900,000 for its first year, with identical funding levels planned for the second year. These funds are split among three divisions: $500,000 from the Division of Water, $150,000 from the Water Pollution Control Division, and $250,000 from Cleveland Public Power. CHN Housing Partners, a nonprofit with extensive experience in weatherization and affordable housing services CHN Housing Partners - Cleveland, will oversee specific tasks for each utility. For water and sewer services, the program includes installing water-saving devices, repairing plumbing, and addressing broken sewer lines. For Cleveland Public Power customers, the scope includes replacing inefficient refrigerators, providing LED light bulbs, and performing critical electrical repairs to ensure safe wiring. The 804-2025 PRESENTATION CLE Conservation Program notes that the program aims to prevent housing deterioration and reduce the cost burden on vulnerable households.

The ordinance has officially passed. Residents interested in these services can monitor updates from the Department of Public Utilities regarding eligibility and how to access these conservation and repair benefits.

Source record

File
804-2025
Type
Emergency Ordinance
Status
Passed
Committee
City Council
Introduced
July 6, 2025

View on Cleveland Legistar

Official documents

Sources