Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Atlantic County to Address Abandoned Properties with Countywide Registration Program

Atlantic County is seeking proposals for the implementation of a countywide registration program to address the problem of abandoned properties in default that are not being maintained and are driving down property values in communities throughout the county.

“This is a much needed service in this county. We can ill afford to see property values decline because abandoned and foreclosed homes are not being properly cared for by those responsible for their maintenance, stated Dennis Levinson, Atlantic County Executive.

The county held a presentation in September for municipal officials and community members that discussed how a countywide registration program could work. Those in attendance expressed their interest and the county executive directed the Atlantic County Improvement Authority to issue a Request for Proposals.

Levinson noted that there is no cost to towns that may choose to participate in the registration program.

“Once we receive the proposals and decide on a vendor, we will prepare an ordinance that will be shared with each municipality. They may then choose to adopt an ordinance and participate,” he explained. “This is an outstanding shared services opportunity.”

“The registration program will help protect neighborhoods from blight and vandalism so often associated with abandoned properties,” Levinson added.

The responsible parties for vacant and abandoned properties will be identified in the registry and held accountable. The program administrators will work closely with municipal code officials to address code violations and expedite enforcement and compliance.

The deadline for proposals is October 23, 2015. To view the RFP and for more information, please visit www.atlanticcountyimprovementauthority.org.

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County News