MANSFIELD, Ohio — After receiving a written a progress analysis report from Neighborhood Initiative Program (NIP), Richland County Land Reutilization Corporation (RCLRC) members were satisfied to hear they were on track with their ongoing efforts to revitalize blighted neighborhoods.
“It was a short meeting today, but we’re going in the right direction,” said Richland County Chief Deputy Treasurer and member of RCLRC on Wednesday.
RCLRC is currently working to demolish residential buildings under a $1 million grant from NIP. The award was given to RCLRC in January 2014. Under the grant’s funds, the group has demolished 11 properties to date, according to Land Bank Manager Amy Hamrick.
According to NIP’s progress analysis report, RCLRC has until June 30, 2016 to demolish the residential units identified; out of 89 units, RCLRC has acquired 59. Of the properties acquired by RCLRC, 34 are either under contract for demolition or soon to be under contract, said Hamrick.
“The land bank (RCLRC) has already submitted its first successful invoicing package, placing it ahead of similarly sized land banks. [The] partner has strong, competent staff who work proactively with OHFA (Ohio Housing Finance Agency) and fully understand the intricacies of the NIP Guidelines,” read the report.
Additionally, the report gave RCLRC a “strong” status category.
“I am pleased with the progress we’ve made,” said Hamrick.
RCLRC has rehabilitated seven properties, with two properties pending rehabilitation after the board approved them during Wednesday’s meeting. Rehabilitation of a blighted property fits under another category of RCLRC’s work.
The board also approved Resolution 2015-04, which appointed members of the Rehab-Special Consideration (R-SP) Committee.The committee was put together to help applicants navigate through a tedious process, Hamrick said.
“These properties that we acquire go through the Sheriff’s sale at least twice. The nicer ones go at the first sale, we get the ones nobody wants,” said Hamrick. She then explained that the owners who plan to rehabilitate the residential property must fit extensive criteria.
That is where the R-SP comes in. The committee is responsible for assessing applications of a property’s rehabilitation. The resolution also appoints its members to recommend to the board’s an applicant’s approval or disapproval.
Members of the RS-P include Jeff Parton of Richland Bank, Jerry Holden of The Holden Agency, Gaylord (J.R.) Rice of City of Mansfield Codes and Permits, Bart Hamilton of RCLRC and County Commissioner Tim Wert.
RCLRC’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday August 5 at 1 p.m. in the Richland County Courthouse on the second lower level.
