Conquering blight.
Stabilizing Neighborhoods.
Revitalizing Communities.
The main goal of the Chautauqua County Land Bank is to promote community and economic development through various programs to help address vacant and abandoned property issues.
Vacant, foreclosed homes that are structurally sound are acquired and sold below market value to community members who will commit to a renovation plan. Building home ownership in a community creates stability and strong connections. Through a partnership with Home HeadQuarters, Inc. (a CDFI lender based in Syracuse, NY) this program is now becoming more accessible to owner-occupant home buyers by facilitating access to alternative financing.
Sale4Rehab
By working with local government officials, the Chautauqua County Land Bank Corporation identifies and prioritizes blighted structures to be removed from the landscape. Abandoned, derelict properties are a magnet for crime and put undue stress on a community's public health and safety resources. Removing these properties makes neighborhoods safer and creates opportunities for green space and/or redevelopment.
Demolition
Vacant Lots
The Chautauqua County Land Bank Corporation sells or transfers post-demolition, vacant lots via its "side lot" program to a neighbor who is willing to take the responsibility and commit to maintaining it. Adjacent neighbors have the first right to make an offer for these lots, followed by other neighbors who have a proposed re-use. Some lots may be with-held for redevelopment based on the municipality's plans for redevelopment.
Hands on Neighborhoods
By hosting local community clean up events, we are working to help residents make connections and share resources, by providing opportunities to meet local leaders and offering information about city resources and housing.