NT gets $90k grant to turn back zombie properties; Lockport receives $150k for its horde
One to three years can pass from when a house is abandoned and the associated bank takes stewardship.
In the meantime, as the house sits empty and deteriorates, the neighborhood is affected negatively, possibly starting a domino effect.
Just this week, North Tonawanda and Lockport announced receiving state grants of $90,000 and $150,000, respectively.
North Tonawanda plans on using the money to create a database of zombie properties in the city as well as fund a part-time position over three years in the building inspector’s office that will focus entirely on the issue, according to Lumber City Development Director Michael Zimmerman.
He estimated at least 75 zombie properties in the city evenly spread throughout, which was contrary to his initial expectation.
Lockport announced its $150,000 grant at Wednesday’s common council meeting and said discussions were taking place about how to spend it.
