(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will apply for a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant to help repair local homes.

On Monday, the City Commission approved sending the application to the Kansas Department of Commerce and authorized Mayor Becky Shamburg to sign the necessary documents following a hearing that drew no public comment.

Governmental Assistance Services representative Garrett Nordstrom said the grant could help rehabilitate 20 to 25 homes, with a focus on roof repairs. If awarded, the city would provide about $21,000 in matching funds.

The commission also approved replacing the pump at the Knouse Well at an estimated cost of nearly $46,000.  Tests show the current pump isn’t working efficiently.

In addition, the  commission approved relocating the vacuum island at the Red Hawk Carwash on 1st and Oregon Streets at at cost of  just over $9,400. The move is needed to avoid interference with a planned traffic signal project and will be handled by Seneca-based Fleagle Electric.