Vacant homes continue to plague neighborhoods across the Valley, attracting unwanted trash and plenty of crime. But grant money meant to tear down these problem buildings will finally be released next month.
The funds were awarded as part of the 2009 Neighborhood Stabilization Program. That's the same program the Valley was shut out of this year, causing local leaders, just this week, to stop in Washington D.C. to fight for the money.
In 2009, Mahoning County received $2.9 million in the funding. Officials dedicated more than half of that to demolition projects in eight cities and townships.
Campbell got $700,000, enabling officials to demolish about 30 homes.
"Some of the houses were chosen because they were burned down properties. Some were houses people complained about over the period of years," said Campbell Administrator Lewis Jackson.
The money Campbell received was split into three separate packages. The first two were awarded to contractors at the end of last year, and demolition will begin in February. The third package just went up for bid at Thursday's commissioners meeting.
While this grant helps, the list of vacant structures in Campbell continues to grow, said officials.
"There's still more to be put on the list," said Jackson. "We're in the process of doing that now, and I think, all together, there's 137."
City officials are seeking other grants for these buildings but said they still have to overcome some road blocks.
"Some qualify if they're commercial and they were also used as apartment buildings. They can be on a demo list, but if it's strictly a commercial property, it can't be used. The money can't be used," Jackson said.
They have until 2013 to use all of the neighborhood stabilization money.
