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Receive an update on the Minor Home Repair Program.
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BACKGROUND:
Maintaining safe and sustainable housing is essential to preserving neighborhood stability, protecting property values, and supporting the overall quality of life for Farmers Branch residents. The Minor Home Repair Program (MHRP) advances the City’s investment in neighborhood vitality and helps homeowners address critical exterior repairs that may otherwise create financial hardship. By providing targeted assistance to income-qualified homeowners, the program promotes community resilience, enhances the appearance and safety of residential neighborhoods, and reinforces the City’s commitment to maintaining strong and vibrant communities.
In Fiscal Year 2024, the City Council initiated the Minor Home Repair Program (MHRP) to support income-qualified homeowners in the City of Farmers Branch. The program was established to improve the sustainability and livability of homes for residents in need by assisting with essential exterior repairs. During the Fiscal Year 2025 budget workshop, the City Council approved revisions to the program’s eligibility requirements to better ensure assistance is directed toward residents with the greatest need and allocated $75,000 toward the program.
Eligibility for the MHRP is determined using market home values verified through the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD), along with confirmation of homestead exemptions to verify owner occupancy. Qualified homeowners may receive grant assistance from the City for eligible repairs in an amount up to $5,000. Any repair costs exceeding $5,000 are the sole responsibility of the homeowner.
MHRP objectives address critical issues to assist in stabilizing Farmers Branch neighborhoods, such as:
1. Bringing dwelling units into compliance with the City’s residential property standards
2. Protecting the health and safety of the residents
3. Providing accessibility modifications where needed
4. Improving the livability of properties
Applicants must comply with the following program requirements:
§ Residence must be owner-occupied
§ No liens on property (except for primary mortgage lender)
§ Property values cannot exceed the average market value (DCAD)
§ No outstanding Code cases unless addressed by a proposed rehabilitation project
§ Resident agrees to remain owner-occupant for three (3) years
§ Grant is not provided directly to the homeowner
DISCUSSION:
MHRP is currently being administered through the Community Services Department. In 2025, nine residential rehabilitation projects were completed. Thus far in 2026, the Community Services Department has completed six projects, totaling $20,377. In addition, one rehabilitation project is currently underway, and two additional projects are slated to start by July 15, 2026.
To assist in completing a greater number of rehabilitation projects, the Community Services Department will expand its pool of qualified contractors to perform necessary home repairs. Increasing the number of participating contractors will improve the Department’s ability to respond to homeowner needs in a more timely and efficient manner, while also increasing overall program capacity.
In addition, for homeowners who do not qualify for MHRP, Community Services will coordinate additional services through the Code Cares Volunteer Program to address home repair needs.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted annual amount of $75,000.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
N/A
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Presentation