We agree a program providing grant money to demolish dilapidated, vacant homes is a win-win situation for the community, neighborhood and homeowner and we commend local officials for working with property owners to see the demolitions through.
The Moving Ohio Forward demolition program provides money to municipalities to remove residential properties that are considered abandoned and dilapidated. Owners of the properties must consent to the program. As of this week, 15 properties have been submitted from throughout Washington County to be considered. A total of $153,742 is available in grant money to be used in the county.
Vacant, run-down properties are a concern for many reasons. They pull down the property value of other properties in the area and they are a safety concern because of rodents and animals, fire hazards, and people who enter them can put themselves in harm's way.
Property owners benefit because the program allows them to take care of a potential liability at not cost.
Again, everyone wins. And, once these abandoned homes are removed, the property can be used for a purpose that would be a plus to the neighborhood, whether it be a new build or left as green space.
We urge local municipalities to continue working with homeowners to clean up our communities in this and other ways, making our neighborhoods safe and more beautiful.
