Council committee approves sale of 832 Speed Street to participant in city 'motor home' program

The Public Works, Solid Waste and General Services Committee recommended approval on May 20 to sell 832 Speed Street (District 7) to a program participant under the city’s motor-home (motor-owned) program.

Jeton Hussey, the city’s real estate coordinator, said the applicant, Michael Gladys, had participated in the motor-owned program, maintained the parcel, and paid the remaining balance. Hussey told the committee the program requires applicants to live adjacent to the city parcel, maintain the property (grass cutting, debris removal and other upkeep) for a three-year period, document maintenance (photos) and then pay any remaining balance to receive the deed. Hussey said applicants receive credits for the maintenance work during the holding period.

Council members asked clarifying questions about program specifics — whether “adjacent” includes directly across the street (Hussey said yes), the three-year maintenance period, and the application and review process — and were told that program information is available on the city website and that there is a memorandum-of-understanding and paperwork applicants must complete. Council members praised the program as a neighborhood-stabilization tool.

The committee voted in favor of sending the resolution to the full council with same-night minutes; the motion was moved by Councilman Ford Sr. and seconded by Councilwoman Logan. Committee members expressed support for the participant and for programs that encourage nearby residents to care for and ultimately acquire city-owned lots.