Collinsville council approves three neighborhood and infill programs to transfer city lots and fund exterior home improvements

The Collinsville City Council approved three ordinances Jan. 27 aimed at reducing city maintenance obligations and encouraging neighborhood reinvestment: a 'mode to own' program, a curb‑appeal assistance grant, and an infill development program.

Travis Taylor, community development director, said the mode‑to‑own program targets a small number of oddly shaped or undevelopable parcels the city maintains; staff will approach adjacent property owners to sign agreements to maintain the lots for two consecutive years, after which the city would deed the property to the adjoining owner. Taylor estimated fewer than 10 properties initially qualify.

The curb‑appeal assistance program would award up to 10 reimbursement grants of up to $3,000 for exterior improvements that enhance street‑facing appearance, paid from the same funding pot used for the first‑time homebuyer program. Eligible owner‑occupants would be subject to income limits (Taylor proposed 180% of area median income initially), would match the city dollar‑for‑dollar and accept a five‑year, 0% forgivable lien that triggers partial recapture on sale or rental during that period.

The infill program is intended to make developable single‑family lots available to qualified developers through a request for qualifications; developers would build new homes within 18 months and the eventual buyers would be subject to five‑year owner‑occupancy restrictions. Taylor said staff is drafting the legal framework and will refine parcel lists and program details.

Council approved all three ordinances on roll call. Council members asked staff to include design and occupancy parameters in agreements so new construction fits neighborhood character.