The city’s Code Compliance Division is working with ePaint Recycling to offer city neighbors free painting kits for their home projects.
ePaint, on West Michigan Avenue, collects unused paint, sorts it by color, and remixes it to create new cans of recycled, interior/exterior paint in a variety of colors. It is available mainly at Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations, including the one in Battle Creek, 595 North Ave.
Neighbors with summer paint projects can apply to the city to receive a painting starter kit, including paint from ePaint in one of six colors, and some pans and brushes.
“We decided to try this program because the No. 1 issue we hear is that people want to paint their homes, but say they can’t afford to buy the paint,” said Jason Francisco, the city’s code compliance manager. “We’re excited to work with ePaint and help support our neighbors who want to improve their homes.”
Applicants must own residential property within the City of Battle Creek, submit photos demonstrating a need for paint, and may not apply more than once per calendar year. There are no income restrictions, and projects do not have to be a result of city code violations.
Approved applicants will be given a voucher and appointment time to pick up their kit from ePaint. They must complete the painting project within 60 days and contact the city to schedule a completion inspection.
Unused paint and supplies can be returned and recycled to ePaint.
The city budgeted $10,000 for the program, and anticipates providing kits to approximately 125 households. Staff don’t yet know if additional funding will continue the program.
For more information and to complete the application, visit battlecreekmi.gov/code; visit City Hall Room 117, 10 N. Division St., from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday; or call 269-966-3387.