| By Big Radio News Staff |

Milton city officials are considering changes to a grant program for residents looking to spruce up their homes.

The Residential Exterior Improvement Program currently offers applicants up to $5,000 out of a pool of $25,000 in tax-increment-district revenue to pay for projects to maintain or enhance the visual appeal of city neighborhoods.

The Community Development Authority is proposing upping those amounts to $10,000 out of a pool of $50,000. City staff says the tax-increment districts have enough money to bear the increases.

Other proposed changes: Program applications would be due in March instead of April to give applicants more time in the spring to schedule contractors.

The requirement to start work within six months of the award would also be eased. Having a contractor signed in that time frame would be the new standard.

The changes will be in front of the city council Tuesday night.