(Image provided by City of Menasha)
A member of Menasha’s city council is sparking controversy by applying for a forgiveable loan through a taxpayer-funded program.
Ald. James Taylor and his wife are asking for $15,000 through the Strong Neighborhoods Menasha Housing Initiative. They want to replace windows and siding on their house.
Ald. Randy Ropella tried to pass a retroactive ban on elected officials taking part in the plan. He believes it’s terrible to take that money from the city, and he questions how Taylor can sleep at night.
Taylor is defending himself, pointing out that the Menasha Redevelopment Authority approved his application without knowing he owned the house. He says he went by the law, and how the program was set up.
The Taylors won’t have to pay back the $15,000, if they continue to live in the house for five more years.
Mayor Don Merkes cast the tie-breaking vote, against a ban on city officials being able to receive a loan.
