approved LCRA 04-25-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

toage of the structure, demolition debris on site of vacant properties, lack of accessible entry to remaining structure; 2.deteriorated or inadequate site improvements-the single family structure at 6514 has been condemned by the City of University City. The vacant lots have debris, high brush and weeds, andremaining garage is in poor shape;3.Impropersubdivision or obsolete platting-the current zoning code calls for fifty-foot wide lots. Thesubject lots are mostly thirty feet wide with the exception of the double lot. Habitat for Humanity will subdivide the larger lot in order to construct a total of four homes. The resulting lots will still be narrower thanwhat thecode allows for, but Habitat for Humanity St. Louis has applied for a variance and that has been approved.The Bartmer Avenueproject previously completed by Habitat for Humanityis in close proximity to the Plymouth Avenue properties, thereby increasing the impact of both developments. The prevailing pattern is the same as the rest neighborhood, and Habitat for Humanity plans tomaintain that same consistencyin density. The homes areto beone- th story buildings with 1,200 square feet. The 4blighting criteria;conditions that endanger the propertyby fire, weather, or other conditions-vacantsubjectproperties fall under this criteria and are conducive to providing a haven for vandalism. Ms. Riganti stated that the blighting study and redevelopment planis consistent with the 2005 Comprehensive planas the parcels specified are included in the plan.The redevelopment plan is as follows:Habitat for Humanity is proposing four LEED Platinum owner-occupied homes in keeping withthe prevailing pattern and design of the neighborhood. It is planned that construction will begin when the properties have been transferred to Habitat and Habitatwill replace the sidewalkin front of the homes.Those who purchase the homes will needto comply withincome restrictions, i.e. household income under 60% of the area median income. There will be a Deed of Trust onthe property, which will ensure long term compliance.This will allow Habitat for Humanity to foreclose on the property incase of illegal activities occurringon the sites.Habitat hastheright-of-first-refusalin the instance a homeowner should decide to sell the property.A further requirement of the Habitat program is the requirement homeowners take classes on homeownership, in order to get themreadyfor becoming homeowners. The Board inquired as to the sales price of the homes. These homes will cost approximately $150,000to construct and will sell for between $125,000 and $130,000,with theowner required to put in 350hours of sweat equity in thehomein lieu of a down payment.Habitat holds the mortgages and there is nointerest on the mortgage. The City paidattorney fees of less than $1,000 to acquire the lots from the County Trustees.There was a question of comparable home prices, and Ms.Riganti indicated Countyrecords show homes in the area have sold for around $60,000 and homes values aroundthe Bartmer project have risen. Mr. Rayhawkmade a motion forapproval of the resolution,Mr.Muhammad seconded the motion. Motion carriedby unanimousapproval. Other Business None The meeting was adjourned at 7:08p.m. 2