Muncie Land Bank reports property transfers, two sheriff-sale acquisitions and partnerships with Ball State

Howard, representing the Muncie Land Bank, told the Redevelopment Commission the Land Bank received nine properties that were transferred into its name and that the organization had acquired two properties at a recent sheriff sale via online auction — one property in the Old West End and one in the Anthony neighborhood.

Howard said the Land Bank is pursuing small foundation funds, partnering with Ball State College of Architecture and Planning and securing "immersive learning" grants that cover interns over three years to support Land Bank work. He said the Land Bank presented at the IDEA conference, will present findings at the Prosperity Indiana Summit on May 7, and has been invited to participate in a national cohort run by the Center for Community Progress, working with the Muncie Housing Authority and Anderson Housing Authority to explore program models connecting land banks and housing authorities for homeownership.

Howard said more reporting on the tax sale deep dive will be shared with the commission as analysis continues and that the Land Bank will follow up with details as plans for development emerge.

No formal commission action was requested on the Land Bank update during the meeting.