[Adopted 2-10-2014 by Res. No. 68-2014]
A.
New York State has enacted the "Land Bank Act," which authorizes
municipalities to establish individual or cooperative land banks;
and it has been determined that vacant and abandoned properties are
costly and present a danger to the health and safety of local residents
and, further, they reduce surrounding property values, spread blight
and create havens for crime, resulting in costs and loss of revenues
to local government and discourage further investment.
B.
The purpose of this article is to establish a land bank in Albany
County by creating a not-for-profit corporation whereby funds can
be directed to positive purposes that have the effect of decreasing
the numbers of tax-delinquent properties, revitalizing communities
and increasing the tax rolls to the benefit of all its citizens and
to provide pro-active tools to mitigate costs, spur investment and
improve property values.
C.
It is the intent of the Legislature that the directors of the corporation
established herein move forward in a community-centric, collaborative
manner utilizing charrette-style information-gathering techniques
as it acquires input from residents and subject matter experts.
D.
Plans for redevelopment generated by this approach need to include
diverse, affordable housing options available to a broad mix of income
levels, sufficient commercial opportunities, ample green space and
recreational options, as well as public safety, transportation, parking
and infrastructure considerations.
[Amended 3-10-2014 by Res. No. 110-2014]
There is hereby created a land bank on behalf of the County
of Albany, to be known as the "Albany County Land Bank Corporation,"
a New York State Land Bank.
The directors of the corporation are requested to work with
and recommend capital-generating and revenue-sharing programs designed
to provide the assets necessary for a successful start-up, demolition
and remediation, and the continuing operations of the corporation,
and to recommend policies that will facilitate the removal of obstacles
to redevelopment.
[Amended 3-10-2014 by Res. No. 110-2014]
The bylaws of the Albany County Land Bank Corporation shall
require the Board of Directors to create a Resident Advisory Committee
composed of representatives of the geographic areas in which the land
bank works. The purpose of the advisory committee is to provide input
to the Board and to be advised and informed regarding the actions
of the Board and to act as ambassadors in the communities in which
they live regarding the purpose and objectives of the land bank.
A.
The Board of Directors shall consist of seven members to be appointed
by the Albany County Legislature. Said members shall represent areas
of interest or expertise, including, but not limited to: the building
industry; architectural/planning and/or design industry; financial
services; law enforcement; property management; municipal affairs;
buildings and codes; real estate; building demolition industry; and
historical renovation services.
B.
All members of the Board shall be residents or have their primary
place of business in the County of Albany, and said directors shall
serve at the pleasure of the Legislature.
