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County Land Bank ready for Round 2

In a short amount of time, the Monroe County Land Bank is making big strides in improving the image of the county.For years, derelict properties were unable to be touched, since the Land Bank’s inception in 2022, more than 35 properties were razed, as well as two schools in Clarington and Beallsville and other large projects.In total, the Land Bank secured more than $9 million in grant funds from the Ohio Department of Development to see the many projects to completion.A short time later, Monroe County Treasurer Taylor Abbott has announced that even more derelict properties are set to be razed thanks to remaining funds from Round 1.Abbott announced 11 additional properties set for demolition this year from all across the county, including the villages of Antioch, Beallsville, Duffy, Hannibal, Graysville, Sardis, Stafford and Woodsfield.Abbott feels the countywide effort helps promote the Land Bank’s “commitment to widespread community development and improvement.”As was the case during the initial round of demolitions, any property considered for work through the Land Bank must meet certain criteria.“In compliance with state guidelines,” Abbott said in a press release, “property owners retain ownership provided they consent to the Land Bank’s demolition of the structures.“Additionally,” Abbott added, “for this round and future initiatives, the Land Bank mandates a 10 percent match from property owners.

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