RACINE — Racine Village Council has approved proceeding with an application for a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant, known as the Neighborhood Revitalization Program.

One of the required public hearings on the CDBG has been set for 7 p.m., Oct. 19 at the Racine Municipal Building. Those interested in attending can find out about the grant and voice where they feel the money should be spent if the grant is approved.

The CDBG, commonly known as a “Distress Grant” has in recent years been received and utilized by Pomeroy and Syracuse, the latter of which is currently spending its grant funds. Residents of each village determine how the CDBG funds are spent via public meetings and surveys. In Syracuse, CDBG funds have been spent on projects such as street paving, improvements to the community center, fire protection equipment, demolition of condemned properties, etc.

Racine attempted to apply for the $300,000 grant last year but didn’t have the $150,000 match which does not have to be in actual dollars but in dollars spent on community projects. This year, Racine has that and then some after receiving grants for water line replacement and the commercial development of Sycamore Street.

Participation in the CDBG program was approved at this week’s meeting of Racine Village Council. Also discussed at the meeting was the possibility of the village paying for the roof drain at the new Dollar General Store to be attached into the storm drainage system on Sycamore Street.

Though initially some members of council discussed paying for the drainage as long as it didn’t exceed $1,000, ultimately the motion was never made. Councilman Jim Harmon said he didn’t feel the village should pay for the store’s tie in.

Council members also praised the first Party in the Park. Councilman Ike Spencer called it “outstanding.” Next year’s Party in the Park is set for Sept. 11, 2010.