Federal government investigating shoddy weatherization work

Since an audit of the Weatherization Program administered by the Southern Iowa Economic Development Association revealed several cases of substandard work, 57 projects have been rechecked and completed.

During Monday?s meeting, Jefferson County Supervisor Lee Dimmitt, who sits on the SIEDA Board of Directors, reported the state is happy with the progress being made; however, the federal government has opened an investigation into the matter.

SIEDA?s Weatherization Program is designed to provide financial assistance to low income, elderly and disabled persons to make their homes more energy efficient. The Iowa Department of Human Services Division of Community Action Agencies Bureau of Weatherization?s audit revealed SIEDA was billed by contractors for work that was either not completed or not completed to state standards.

Dimmitt said SIEDA has since changed its process for hiring and vetting contractors. Whereas a couple contractors were previously handling all the projects, contractors will now be limited to only two open projects at a time, Dimmitt said.

He said six general contractors and one plumber have applied to provide services through the program.

A new director also has been hired to oversee the weatherization program.

For the complete article, see the Tuesday, March 2, 2010, printed edition of The Fairfield Ledger.