The City currently holds approximately $7,300.00 in nuisance abatement liens, and associated collection costs and interest, against one parcel on Stokes Street, near South Main Street, identified as Parcel #21801. The liens and costs greatly exceed the market value of the Parcel, which is presently assessed at $600.00.
The nuisance abatement lien relates to the demolition of an unsafe structure in 2021. The present owner wishes to donate the land to the DRHA to assist with the development of much-needed affordable housing, in exchange for the release of the delinquencies and liens. Partnering with the DRHA on this furthers the City’s goals of blight eradication and expanding the housing supply. The donation is dependent upon the City releasing the recorded nuisance abatement liens and associated costs to allow clear title to transfer.
Under State law, City Council can release nuisance abatement liens to facilitate the transfer of an otherwise unmarketable lot. City Staff has determined that releasing the outstanding nuisance abatement liens to facilitate the property transfer would be of benefit to the City by eliminating likely future maintenance costs, increasing the taxable value and productive use of the Parcel, and assisting the DRHA in developing new affordable housing. |