The Chautauqua County Land Bank works with local government officials to identify and prioritize blighted land for the annual demolition program schedule. Properties targeted for demolition generally are vacant, abandoned or condemned and structurally unsound, posing health and safety issues for the community.
In 2014, the Chautauqua County Land Bank was fortunate to receive $2 million in funding for the demolition program out of the mortgage settlement funds from the NYS Office of Attorney General. These funds will assist the Land Bank and local municipalities in addressing the glut of demolitions needed to reduce blight in Chautauqua County.
Strategic Goal
The main goal of the Chautauqua County Land Bank's Demolition Program is to schedule unsalvageable properties for demolition to improve surrounding land values, remove community nuisances and stabilize the housing market.
Program Guidelines for Local Municipalities
Local governments in Chautauqua County may access the Land Bank’s grant funding for demolition of unsafe and/or blighted abandoned structures in their community. Interested communities are encouraged to contact the Land Bank for more information. Criteria for accessing the program funding include the following:
- Clear Title to the Property – The property must be owned by either the local municipality, the county, or the Land Bank.
- Commitment of the Chautauqua County Landfill Tipping Fee credits – This program was designed to assist local communities with the cost of demolition disposal. Program requirements include a commitment to use these credits to cover the cost of the debris disposal.
- Executed Contract with the Chautauqua County Land Bank – A sample is available by contacting our office. This agreement outlines the understanding of the relationship with the land bank and its sub-contractors, funders and the municipalities. It includes necessary provisions based on NYS Public Authorities Act rules and grantor requirements, as well as any in-kind commitments that are negotiated between the land bank and municipality.
- Executed County Shared Services Agreement – If landfill tipping credits or in-kind services need to be borrowed from other communities, this agreement needs to be on file with the county.