Knox Mayor Rick Chambers is attempting to clear misinformation that residents have received concerning the homes that are part of the Blight Elimination Program Grant.
If a property owner is not interested in being a part of this program, that person can opt out of consideration. The city is not forcing anyone to sell or vacate a property, according to Mayor Chambers.
He explained that five homes were added to a list of proposed homes for demolition, but those have since been removed from the list.
“We had added some homes to try to keep from having another public hearing and extending the process. Most of those people did not want their homes included. We took those five homes off which were not the original homes included in the list,” said Mayor Chambers.
Not all blighted homes considered for this grant are in the Parkview Heights area. He said although there are a number of properties that could be considered as part of the grant, only a few qualify.
“There are 13 trailers in Parkview and only one will meet this grant. Most trailers are taxed as personal property, and there’s only one trailer down there that has been converted. The title has been retired, and they’re paying taxes on the trailer. It’s not considered as personal property.”
The grant only allows the purchase of a property up to $6,000 as determined by an appraiser’s land value. Up to $10,000 will be allowed if the structure has a basement. The property formally known as Marsh Manor on Main Street is being considered as part of this grant, but it depends on the property owner’s final decision. The structure on the parcel has been condemned.
The mayor explained that the purpose behind the grant is to improve property values of homes in the city. Some structures are considered hazardous, and it’s in the city’s best interest to rid the city of blighted areas.
Residents are encouraged to call City Hall with any concerns at (574) 772-4553.
