“We do it house by house, day by day …”

That’s the game plan for Huntsville’s Community Development Department – a change from days gone by.

Years ago, the city would cite home owners whose houses would have shingles or siding missing, Mayor Tommy Battle said.

“The folks who lived there, seniors or low income, would say they can’t fix the repairs because they can’t afford to,” he said. “So, we put minds together and came up with a way to help our neighbors.”

Battle made his comments Wednesday in celebrating National Community Development Week and highlighting the impact of federal Community Development Block Grant funding in improving housing for vulnerable residents.

He was joined by Community Development Manager Scott Erwin and Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley Director of Resource Development Executive Chris Mixer at two northwest Huntsville homes being renovated.

This year, Community Development is expanding its annual home rehabilitation effort during Community Development Week, providing new roofs and vinyl siding for two low-income senior homeowners.

“As Huntsville continues to grow, we’re committed to the development of the community,” Battle said. “This is a prime example. They’re investments in people, dignity and neighborhoods.”

Erwin said the city received an additional $500,000 federal Community Development Block Grant for the 2026-27 year.

“This allows us to make real, tangible improvements in the lives of low-income and senior residents,” he said. “Through this, we are completing two home renovation projects instead of one.”

The city’s community development staff will also train Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley volunteers on proper vinyl siding installation.

“One of the most important things we do is train and help volunteers,” said Mixer. “They leave with a sense of purpose.

“We remain committed to everyone having affordable housing so they can have a place to call home.”

During the program, Battle and Erwin recognized the efforts of the community development workers at the site and presented construction rehabilitation project manager Rodney McCallie with a community leadership award. Erwin also cited City Lumber and Monahan Construction for their contributions.

“Today is community collaboration at its best,” Battle said. “We collaborate – that’s what makes our city such a great place.”