[Ord. No. 4580, 11-4-2019]
A. The
City of Berkeley is enabled through its Charter to facilitate programs
that create opportunities for land development and neighborhood stabilization.
The Mow and Own Program will offer the opportunity for current homeowner
occupants to purchase the vacant lots that are located adjacent to
their properties. These purchases will allow owner occupants to acquire
and own lots that they maintain and keep in compliance with City of
Berkeley Code.
B. This
program will assist in removing nuisance lots where dumping and overgrowth
is a consistent problem for neighbors. This program will also provide
an opportunity for owner occupants to own land that will be a productive
source of tax revenue for the City of Berkeley. These lots can be
used for purposes such as community gardens and private lot consolidations.
C. Increased
neighborhood beautification and maintenance will support the objectives
of the comprehensive plan to redevelop and stabilize residential neighborhoods.
[Ord. No. 4580, 11-4-2019]
A. Applicants:
1. All applicants must be owner/occupants of homes directly adjacent
to the lot being purchased for a minimum of three (3) years.
2. Applicants must not have any liens or tax arrears with the City of
Berkeley or St. Louis County.
3. Applicants must propose desired usage of the lot.
4. Applicants must provide proof of funds and income to purchase and
maintain the lot.
B. Eligible
Lots:
1. Eligible lots shall be those deemed unsuitable for development based on Section
405.120, Residential Lot Design Standards.
2. The lot must not be contiguous to any other vacant lots owned by
the City of Berkeley.
3. The lot must be vacant and unimproved real property.
C. Owner
Responsibility:
1. The new owner must keep the property free of overgrown grass in compliance
with the City Ordinance to maintain grass at no higher than seven
(7) inches.
2. The new owner must keep property free of debris and trash.
3. The new owner must pay and keep current the real estate taxes assessed
on the lot.
4. The new owner must agree to not sell the lot independently of the
property that is currently owned/occupied unless approved by the City
Council.