JEFFERSON CITY —State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, has introduced Senate Bill 424 to allow the creation of a land bank agency in the city of St. Joseph. Similar to programs already established in St. Louis and Kansas City, the St. Joseph land bank would provide a way for abandoned and derelict properties within the city to return to productive use.
“St. Joseph is a proud old city, but there are sections of the town that could benefit from an infusion of new capital and a spirit of enterprise,” Sen. Luetkemeyer said. “The land bank approach has been used successfully in other cities to address serious issues of decay, neglect and blight in urban areas. This legislation brings that same innovative solution to St. Joseph.”
Abandoned commercial buildings, homes and lots would be aggregated under the authority of the newly created land bank agency. Individuals who wish to renovate, restore or repurpose the properties could buy the parcel from the land bank. Purchasers would not be liable for past tax obligations attached to the properties.
For more information about Sen. Luetkemeyer, visit www.senate.mo.gov/luetkemeyer.