Housing GSO: HRA Greensboro Affordable Housing Plan

NEIGHBORHOOD REINVESTMENT

ESTABLISH STRATEGIC CODE COMPLIANCE | Recommendation

The City should adopt and formalize a strategic approach to code compliance and work with owners to reduce blight. There should be collaboration between city departments, property owners, and neighborhoods to improve blighted or dis- invested properties that may have outstanding liens, fines, or unpaid taxes. The recommended strategic approach should contain three overarching scenarios for the resolution of code compliance cases: Fix it Up, Pay it Up, or Give it Up. This will provide a predictable process for residents and neighbors impacted by blighted properties. It will also clarify public subsidy required to ensure the City has both the staff capacity and partnerships needed to move foreclosed properties to market.

Encourage, and incentivize property owners to comply with building codes through 1) publicly funded rehab programs and 2) strategic code compliance.

Fix It Up

Make repairs on behalf of property owners who do not make required repairs and apply fines and liens to the property.

Pay It Up

OR

If property owner fails to pay liens or maintain the property, foreclose so the property can be returned to the market under ownership that will invest in and maintain the property.

Give It Up

HR&A Advisors, Inc.

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