KCA Distressed Housing Policy (Draft)

Written by KCA Housing Committee, Bill Lindner and John Morgan, chairs.

Definition/Symptoms of Distressed Properties

1. Abandoned two months or more
2. Derelict property
3. Visual violations are present
   1. Over grown grass
   2. Windows out
   3. No sign of upkeep
   4. All utilities are disconnected
4. Issues of health and safety
   1. Not secured by enclosures
   2. Fire hazard, falling debris
   3. Not secured from trespass
   4. Vermin infestation
   5. Visual violations

Mission Statement
The KCA is dedicated to the preservation of housing resources on the lower west side and to bring back the historic integrity and fabric of our community within and around the boundaries of the KCA.

Problem Statement
A number of homes have become either abandoned or derelict in our area and some action needs to be taken.

1. Notify the local housing authority of property that meets the definition of abandonment or derelict. One designated representative of the KCA will contact the housing authority to follow-up on what remedies have been put in place. This will happen within a 30-day time period.
2. We will work with local housing authorities and all other resources to develop viable alternatives to the demolishment of the housing stock in our area.
3. To bring back as many properties as possible into compliance with other viable housing resources in the area.
4. Salvageable properties are those that appear to be structurally sound which means a functioning roof, the house has a square and true foundation and straight walls. A house is unsalvageable when deemed unsafe and unsound by city of Buffalo housing inspectors.
5. Housing officials to be brought in periodically to educate KCA members on significant elements to determine sound housing.

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