North Stonington — Almost a year after the town received its first-ever Small Cities Community Development Block Grant, eight residents are in the process of getting the home repairs the grant is meant to provide.

However, that is only half of the 16 people who originally applied, and less than one-fourth of the 40 residents who initially were interested in the $400,000 grant.

While some have had to drop out because they did not qualify for the grant money, Affordable Housing Committee members said last week others have been frustrated with the lengthy process.

The grant — used for loans on home repairs for income-qualified individuals or families — mandates that homes meet certain standards, such as being asbestos- and lead paint-free, before repairs begin.

It also places a deed restriction on the property for five or more years, depending on the amount awarded, that allows the homes to be counted among the town's affordable housing stock.

In an effort to speed things up, the committee on Thursday called on new town planner Tom Zanarini to become more involved in the process. Right now, Lisa Low and Associates, of Oxford, assists the town in choosing applicants for the money.

"This committee, none of us has any authority" regarding the grant, committee Co-Chairwoman Mary Ann Ricker said, adding that former town planner Juliet Leeming Hodge used to watch over the grant's proceedings. "I think you have to pick up the reigns from Juliet."

Zanarini agreed on the spot to do so, noting that he was not aware Leeming Hodge had handled it in the past.

Committee members said the grant has successfully been implemented in other state municipalities and still has a couple years and plenty of money left in it.

"On paper, it's a good program," Co-Chair Tim Pelland said. "It just needs to be followed through."

l.boyle@theday.com

Twitter: @LindsayABoyle