NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM As part of a federal program to help with the national housing crisis, Youngstown is receiving $2.7 million.


Sept. 26, 2008: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announces $3.92 billion will go to state, county and local governments nationwide to help stabilize the housing market. Youngstown is to receive $2.7 million, with about half going toward housing demolitions.

Oct. 3, 2008: Youngstown city officials and community activists complain about the allocation, saying it’s a small amount for the city with the highest foreclosure rate, 14.7 percent, in the state. For example, Akron, with a 10.3 percent foreclosure rate, is receiving $8.6 million. City officials are hopeful Youngstown will receive additional money from the $116.9 million the state was given to distribute to communities.

Dec. 19, 2008: The state’s allocation is announced, and Youngstown receives no additional money. Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams said he’s “livid” about the state’s decision. City officials continue to seek additional money from the state for demolitions, but none has come.

March 30, 2009: City council postpones a vote on appropriating the $2.7 million in funds to discuss the issue further with the city administration.

Monday: City council’s Community Development Agency Committee meets with city administrators to talk about the funding. The committee recommends the full council approve the plan at its next meeting, April 15.

Source: Vindicator files

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