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Gifford Neighborhood Plan 2014 (' <br /> ➢ Opportunities <br /> Although significant housing problems exist in Gifford, significant opportunities to resolve those problems also exist. Some <br /> programs that are in place are already making a difference. Foremost among those are efforts by Habitat for Humanity and Every <br /> Dream Has a Price (EDHAP). <br /> With County funding assistance, over several years Habitat for Humanity (HFH) has built 141 new housing units in Gifford, <br /> mentored its clients, and improved sections of Gifford. Those efforts are also having an effect on surrounding properties. In many <br /> cases, the HFH homes are serving as a catalyst for other rehabilitation and clean-up efforts. Currently, HFH is concentrating more in <br /> rehabilitation activities in the East Gifford area. EDHAP (Every Dream Has A Price) is also building housing units in needy areas <br /> and is working directly with Gifford residents. <br /> Any plan to significantly improve housing conditions in Gifford must include a number of activities, including: <br /> • Condemning and razing dilapidated and unsafe structures; <br /> • Rehabilitating salvageable structures; <br /> • Constructing new residences, particularly on vacant platted lots; <br /> • Maintaining existing residences; <br /> • Increasing home ownership; and <br /> • Intensifying code enforcement, where warranted. <br /> A number of these activities can be supported by the County and other organizations, coordinated, and focused in the location, of the <br /> highest concentration of poor housing conditions in Gifford, especially East Gifford. <br /> ■ Condemning/Razing Structures <br /> Those structures within Gifford that have deteriorated beyond the point where they can be economically repaired need to be removed <br /> to maintain safety and property values, and to accommodate redevelopment. Condemnation of structures is a County responsibility <br /> and involves action by Code Enforcement and the Building Division. While the condemnation process is slow and time-consuming, <br /> it is effective and provides property owners a deadline for "stepping up" and removing dilapidated structures themselves. By <br /> removing those structures, a community blight is removed and buildable lots created. <br /> Community Development Indian River County 48 <br />