Oneida County Veterans Capital Restoration Matching Grant Program

Program Purpose

The Oneida County Veterans Capital Restoration Matching Grant Program was established to support the preservation, repair, restoration, and modernization of facilities owned and operated by veterans organizations throughout Oneida County. The program recognizes the important role these organizations play in honoring veterans, supporting military families, and serving as valued community gathering spaces.

Eligible Applicants

• Chartered American Legion Posts
• Chartered Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Posts
• Other recognized veterans organizations approved by Oneida County and be physically located within Oneida County
• Own or maintain long-term control of the facility where improvements are proposed.
• Be in good standing with their parent organization.

Eligible Use of Funds

Grant funds may be used for capital improvement projects including, but not limited to:

1. Roof replacement or repair
2. HVAC systems
3. Plumbing or electrical upgrades
4. Windows and doors
5. Accessibility improvements (ADA)
6. Parking lot repairs
7. Structural stabilization
8. Exterior restoration
9. Interior rehabilitation
10. Kitchen or bathroom modernization
11. Heating system replacement
12. Energy efficiency upgrade
13. Emergency repairs
14. Building code compliance improvements

Ineligible Expenses

• Routine operating expenses
• Payroll or staffing costs
• Utilities
• Furniture or décor not tied to capital improvement
• Alcohol-related improvements
• Programming or event costs

Projects completed work without prior approval

Funding Structure

The Veterans Capital Restoration Matching Grant Program provides reimbursement for up to 50% of eligible project costs after completion of approved work and submission of required documentation. Grant awards range from a minimum of $2,500 to a maximum of $50,000 per applicant per funding round.

Example: $20,000 Project/ County Reimbursement: $10,000/ Applicant Match: $10,000

Matching Fund Requirements

Documentation explaining all matching contributions must be included with the application.

Matching funds may include:

• Cash
• Donated materials
• Donated professional services
• Volunteer labor
• Other grants

Documentation explaining all matching contributions must be included with the application.

Application Procedures

To apply for funding, applicants must submit a completed application along with all required supplemental documentation.

Applications may be accepted on a rolling basis until available program funds have been exhausted.

Required Supplemental Documentation

In addition to the application, applicants must provide:

1. Provide a brief narrative description:
   • The existing condition of the facility.
   • The proposed capital improvement.
   • Why the project is needed.
   • The anticipated benefit to the veterans organization and community.
2. Cost Estimate
   Provide at least one contractor estimate or vendor quotation documenting anticipated project costs.
3. Existing Conditions
   Provide photographs documenting the current condition of the facility and areas to be improved.
4. Organizational Documentation Include:
   • Proof of organizational status.
   • Documentation demonstrating ownership or long-term control of the facility.
   • Evidence that the organization is in good standing.
5. Matching Funds
   Provide documentation demonstrating the source and amount of matching funds, including cash, volunteer hours, donated materials, or donated professional services.
6. Board Authorization
   Include documentation showing authorization by the organization’s Board or Post leadership approving submission of the application.

Reimbursement Requirements

Prior to reimbursement, applicants must submit:

• Paid Invoices
• Proof of payment (i.e. canceled checks)
• Before and after photographs
• Brief project completion summary

The County may conduct site visits to verify project completion before reimbursement is issued.

Application Evaluation

Applications will be reviewed for completeness and eligibility.

Preference may be given to projects that:

1. Address health and safety concerns.
2. Preserve aging facilities.
3. Improve accessibility.
4. Leverage additional investment.
5. Serve large veteran populations.
6. Improve community- use spaces.

Please mail completed application and all supporting materials to:

Oneida County Department of Planning
Boehlert Center at Union Station
321 Main St. 3rd Floor
Utica, NY 13501

Questions and email submissions:

(315) 798.5710 or mrdefazio@oneidacountyny.gov