Linden City Council

Two Linden residents will be getting new homes through the HOME Program.

Linden City Council convened in a special meeting on Monday, Feb. 23, where members voted to approve a bid from ALR Homes for the construction of the homes.

The HOME Program provides funds to build new homes for homeowners whose houses are beyond repair.

To receive the home, the owners sign a contract stating that they will live in the residence for a minimum of five years, depending on the contract.

If the homeowner moves or decides to sell the property, they will be required to payback a prorated amount of the home’s cost.

The homeowner is not the only one who benefits from the program as the city will also be adding value to the tax rolls.

During the Feb. 23 meeting, the council went into executive session to discuss candidates to fill the council position left vacant upon the resignation of Mary Dowd.

Council members decided to hold off on a decision until they could meet with the candidates in person during the March council meeting.

The council did, however, appoint James Johnson as the mayor pro-tem, title previously held by Dowd.