The Muncie Redevelopment Commission (MRC) is buying some of the thousands of vacant houses and lots in Muncie to sell them back to members of the community to remodel or reuse.
The Muncie Redevelopment Commission owns Community Circle. The pocket park is located on the corner of Main Street and Cherry Street. Zoe Schwab // Ball State Daily
The commission has been around for less than five years. During that time, it has taken ownership of and resold three properties.
“So far the properties have been a part of the greater downtown area,” Zane Bishop, the MRC residential administrator said. Bishop says the focus is on downtown properties because that it is an area desirable for homeowners right now.
The MRC says it has the power “to acquire and dispose of abandoned residential properties.” The MRC then sells the properties for a minimum of $2,000 to buyers to remodel and live in. The vacant lots can be turned into parks, gardens, orchards, or side yards of neighboring houses.
According to Bishop, the process of acquiring properties takes a long time. Many houses are taken through the tax sale, which can take more than a year.
“It’s a learning process. We have programs in place,” Bishop said. “But we’re still learning how to do it more effectively.”
One of the properties owned by the Muncie Redevelopment Commission is located at 523 E. Charles Street. Zoe Schwab // Ball State Daily
One of the MRC properties was sold to a couple, who will now be first-time homeowners. The couple plan to remodel the house and live in it. Another one of the properties was turned into a community circle on the corner of Main Street and Cherry Street. The Old West End Neighborhood Association is responsible for maintaining the park.
The Muncie Redevelopment Commission sold this house and which is currently being remodeled by the new homeowners to live in. Zoe Schwab // Ball State Daily
Bishop said he believes selling and remodeling properties will have an impact beyond the people who buy them.
“It probably has the greatest effect on neighbors,” Bishop said. “They will see the impact the most.”
Zachary Malitz, a Muncie resident, says this will be good for the city of Muncie.
“People coming here and purchasing homes and fixing them up is always good,” Malitz said. “The general idea of increasing investment is desirable.”
The Muncie Redevelopment Commission is looking to buy 33 more properties this year that are in fair condition and can be remodeled.
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