In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing efforts of the land bank to manage the demolition of residential structures, emphasizing the importance of addressing slum and blight conditions in the community. Currently, there are no properties queued for demolition, but officials acknowledged that the need for such actions may arise in the future.

The meeting highlighted the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which provides funding specifically aimed at removing slums and blight as part of its national objectives. This program is designed to assist municipalities in funding demolitions, although it does not extend to private property owners seeking to demolish their own structures. Instead, the city must act as the applicant for any funding requests related to demolitions.

Officials noted that while private property owners can express their concerns during public hearings, the CDBG program is primarily focused on addressing unsafe structures that pose hazards to neighborhoods. The criteria for demolition include identifying areas where at least 25% of the properties meet the federal definition of slums and blight.

The discussion also touched on the financial burdens faced by private owners, particularly regarding the costs associated with asbestos assessments and abatement. While the CDBG program aims to benefit low and moderate-income individuals, it is not intended to subsidize private demolitions directly. Instead, the program seeks to create vacant properties that can ultimately assist these individuals.

As this is a new initiative, officials anticipate that adjustments may be made in the coming year to better align the program with community needs and to streamline the application process for future demolition projects.