Council introduces sale of six city‑owned lots under home‑preservation program

City staff introduced an ordinance Sept. 10 that would authorize the sale of six city‑owned lots acquired through tax forfeiture as part of the Home Preservation Program. Brent Merriman told council the properties were marketed to builders willing to construct owner‑occupied, single‑family homes, and staff recommended sales to particular buyers at specified price points to promote infill redevelopment.

Merriman listed the proposed buyer‑price pairs in the introduction: GG Custom Homes (414 E. 3rd St., $1,500), 422 S. Detroit St. ($4,000), 557 E. Market St. ($3,000), Copley Construction LLC (652 E. Church St., $9,000), and 491 & 499 E. 2nd St. ($9,000). Councilmembers asked about the low sale prices relative to market and staff explained the lots come free and clear of prior tax liens after the tax‑forfeiture process; partners typically waive back taxes so the city can resell parcels to stimulate redevelopment.

Council introduced the ordinance; no final sale votes were recorded at this meeting. Staff said the Home Preservation Program requires buyer commitments to build owner‑occupied homes and that sales are intended to return properties to tax‑paying status.