NORWICH – The City of Norwich Common Council approved a resolution to reward funds to a Mitchell Street residence for an emergency chimney repair last week. The money came from the city’s Emergency Home Repair Loan Program, a program that few people know exists.

According to city officials, last week marked the first time the Emergency Home Repair Loan program has been utilized. Currently, the fund contains approximately $14,000, which can be distributed in the form of loans, grants or a mixture of the two, depending on income. Community and Economic Development Specialist Todd Dreyer explained that if funds to replenish the program’s balance are not available, it may become a loan-only program.