Governor Ritter Unveils Abandoned Homes Legislation at Pre-Christmas Press Conference
On Tuesday, December 22nd, Governor Ritter appeared at a press conference held at the Clements Community Center in Lakewood to unveil legislation that will permit lenders to expedite the public trustee foreclosure sales of abandoned properties. Representative Dianne Primavera, Representative Jeanne Labuda and Senator Michael Johnston will sponsor the legislation.
The intent of the legislation is to cut down on the problems associated with abandoned properties which are being foreclosed upon. Governor Ritter noted that the negative consequences associated with these properties include blight, being a magnet for criminal activity and a reduction of property values in the neighborhoods where these properties are located.
Chad Otto, President of the Grant Ranch Master Homeowners Association, was introduced by Governor Ritter and spoke on the challenges that community associations face with abandoned properties. Mr. Otto described the difficulties associated with collecting unpaid assessments from the owners of these properties. He also addressed the problems associated with maintenance of lawns, shrubs and structures. Mr. Otto concurred with Governor Ritter's conclusion that the best way to protect property values is to get owners into these abandoned homes as quickly as possible.
This legislation will be introduced during the upcoming legislative session which begins on Wednesday, January 13, 2010. We will keep you up-to-date on this legislation as it proceeds through the legislative process.