Today, Mayor James thanked legislators for passing game-changing legislation to combat Kansas City neighborhood erosion, due in large part to the recession and foreclosure crisis. The bill gives the City the ability to be more strategic in acquiring parcels with the goal of rebuilding a neighborhood. Prior to the land bank bill, the City was given opportunity to purchase properties after all other bids. The new legislation allows the City to compete with other bidders in order to acquire strategic purchases.
“On behalf of the people of Kansas City, and in particular the long suffering neighborhoods this bill will help, I would like to thank the Missouri General Assembly for passing our land bank legislation. The last days of the session are often a chaotic time in Jefferson City, and we are fortunate the bill passed without major alterations. Credit goes to the bills bipartisan sponsors, Senator Victor Callahan, Representatives Noel Torpey and Michael Brown. We will be better able to address the needs of our residents and address the 12,000 board up homes in our city because of their efforts,” said Mayor Sly James.
The lank bank measure awaits the signature of Governor Nixon.
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