Laserfiche WebLink
Gifford Neighborhood Plan Analysis <br /> ■ CondemnintYRazin$! Structures <br /> Those structures within Gifford that have deteriorated beyond the point where they can be economically repaired must be removed. <br /> This is a county responsibility and involves action by code enforcement and the building division. While the condemnation process is <br /> slow and time-consuming, it must be pursued. By removing those structures, a community blight can be removed and buildable lots <br /> created. After structures are removed, the county must take all reasonable efforts to make lots available for new construction. <br /> ■ Rehabilitating Salva able Structures <br /> Many housing units in Gifford are deteriorated, but can economically be rehabilitated. Two programs managed by the county can <br /> provide funding for rehabilitation activities. Through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program, the county can <br /> provide rehabilitation funding for low and very low income residents. Although not yet funded, the Community Development Block <br /> Grant Program will provide another source for rehabilitation funding, if the county's grant is approved. Even with funding available, <br /> there is still the challenge of getting property owners to apply for funding. Through rehabilitation, the housing stock can be improved <br /> and preserved, while the overall community can be enhanced. <br /> In the past, Gifford residents have been relatively slow to take advantage of the SHIP Program. There are several reasons for that. <br /> The principal reason, however, may be a reluctance to encumber a residence with a lien as required by the SHIP Program. This <br /> reluctance stems from a fear of losing the residence as well as a general distrust of government programs. <br /> Regardless of those issues, it is clear that the participation of Gifford residents in the SHIP Program will not increase unless groups <br /> and individuals that are trusted and respected in the community (e.g. churches and pastors) are recruited to help "get the word out." In <br /> addition to increased public education activities, SHIP program staff may conduct special informational workshops for Gifford <br /> residents. <br /> ■ ConstructinLi New Housing <br /> During the past decade, there has been little new single-family housing construction in east and central Gifford. Over the past few <br /> years, however, Habitat For Humanity has initiated an aggressive sweat equity housing construction program. With county SHIP <br /> funding assistance, Habitat has built housing and provided other services to its clients. Over the next ten years, Habitat intends to <br /> build 20 to 30 houses a year, at least 75% in Gifford. Generally, about 25%to 40% of the cost of each Habitat built home is paid for <br /> with the SHIP funds. <br /> N <br /> -� Community Development Department Indian River County 40 <br />