City of Dunkirk First Ward Councilman Mike Michalski is pleased to announce the continuation of the "Rising Star" program available to city of Dunkirk property owners.
The program, which began last year, was created to promote and recognize city property owners who make significant exterior improvements to existing residential homes. Those improvements ultimately help to "elevate" the image of city neighborhoods.
"I felt it was important to recognize those residents who put forth the time, money and effort to improve both their property and the image of Dunkirk," Michalski said. "We recognized some great home improvement projects last year. The property owners are always very proud of their efforts and will gladly show you the fruits of their labor; whether they do the work themselves or have it contracted out."
The program will run a total of six months (May through October). Each monthly winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to a local hardware store and a Rising Star award.
"We've been able to carry over many of our sponsors from last year: Add Lumber, Service Hardware and The Home Depot," Michalski stated. "We also added Grossman's Bargain Outlet who expressed an interest in the program last year."
Eligible improvements include, but are not limited to; exterior painting, siding, roofing, porches, decks, patios, landscaping, windows and doors. Improvements may be made by either contractors or the do-it-yourselfer. Existing residential homes can be either owner-occupied or income properties. Improvements should be those completed during the current calendar year, with exceptions considered on a case-by-case basis only.
"Basically, any exterior improvements will be considered for the program," Michalski explained.
Monthly winners will be determined by committee. Improvements which have the greatest positive effect on a home and/or neighborhood will carry the most weight when determining a winner.
"I feel very fortunate to have the city Planning Board once again acting as the program's committee," Michalski added. "They are very involved and enthusiastic in determining monthly winners. Attaching pictures of improvements, either to the nomination form itself or e-mailed, would be very helpful, but is not required."
To be considered for the program, improvements to city properties may be nominated by any resident, including the owner, or through the city building inspector's office. Once nominated, a property will remain eligible until the program's 2011 end on Oct. 31.
Nomination forms and program guidelines can be obtained from Add Lumber, Grossman's Bargain Outlet, Service Hardware, The Home Depot and the city clerk's office. Nominations can also be made by contacting Michalski at 951-0015 or email: mmichalski@cityofdunkirk.com.
