Given the scarcity of undeveloped parcels in the City, replacement of substandard units which cannot be economically rehabilitated is an essential component of neighborhood revitalization. The UHRP provides financial and technical assistance to correct health and safety defects in owner-occupied and rental properties. Eligible work includes repairs to electrical and plumbing systems, seismic upgrades to foundations, interior and exterior paint, and replacement of roof shingles. The City's exterior improvement program for commercial properties has been expanded to include residential neighborhoods. The objective of the program is to improve the exterior condition of units so that there is visible improvement in the overall appearance of the neighborhood.
Eligible work includes exterior paint, landscaping, roofing, and sidewalk and driveway repair.
This program is typically employed in support of projects sponsored by an organization such as Habitat for Humanity. In the case of rent subsidy, tenants pay a certain percentage of their income towards rent and the program provides the difference up to a maximum allowable amount. The security deposit program assists tenants with the deposit required at initial occupancy. Both programs are administered by the Housing Authority of Santa Cruz County. This program provides additional tax relief to low-income home owners that lowers their annual mortgage costs.