The Monroe County Department of Public Health is providing up to $5,000 to qualified city property owners to reimburse costs associated with reducing lead hazards.

A nearly $32 million grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development was awarded to the county to implement a variety of activities to combat lead poisoning. The grant period runs through October 2009.

While vacant units and occupied units with children under the age of six will be given priority, applications will also be accepted for dwellings where no children live.

The grant will cover the costs to make 370 units lead-free.