The borough of Wheatland received two proposals from firms who want to run its housing rehabilitation program.

By Monday's deadline, Graney, Grossman, Ray, Colossimo and Assoc., Grove City; and Mourice Waltz Planners and Consultants, Sharpsville, had tendered proposals, said Denny Puko, executive director of Mercer County Regional Planning Commission.

Commission staffers have been reviewing the proposals and will present summaries at tonight's Wheatland council meeting, Puko said. Council meets at 6:30 p.m. in the borough building.

Council likely will not act tonight, Puko said.

Wheatland has been awarded a $25,000 Community Development Block Grant to start the rehab program.

Homeowners who meet low- and moderate-income guidelines and are current on taxes and utilities will be eligible for deferred loans for code-related repairs and replacements such as windows, furnaces, electrical wiring and plumbing.

Certain work also will be authorized for emergency funding, such as if a furnace dies in the middle of winter.

The loan would have to be paid back only if the homeowner moves out or sells the house within five years. The amount of the loan to be paid back declines 20 percent a year.

The consultant will set program guidelines and procedures, inspect homes proposed for work, make work write-ups and cost estimates, set up contractor bidding, perform final inspections and approve payment. Homeowners would choose a contractor from a list of approved companies. The program could be up and running by the construction season, Puko said.

No applications are being taken from homeowners, although the borough has a waiting list.