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Community Transformation: Improving Hopkinsville One Lot at a Time

  • Writer: Amanda Brunt
    Amanda Brunt
  • Jul 30, 2024
  • 3 min read


"After a year-long period of dedicated care, known as the Sweat Equity period, these properties are deeded to the applicants who have nurtured them."
"After a year-long period of dedicated care, known as the Sweat Equity period, these properties are deeded to the applicants who have nurtured them."

The Hopkinsville Lot Next Door Program has announced the start of its latest intake period, which began on July 1st.


“The Lot Next Door Program allows eligible applicants to take responsibility for neglected properties adjacent to their own,” explains Tyechia Walton, Lot Next Door Coordinator. “After a year-long period of dedicated care, known as the Sweat Equity period, these properties are deeded to the applicants who have nurtured them.”


On November 20, 2023, the Lot Next Door program officially deeded over the first two properties in our community. Poston Ave was deeded to Austin Moss, and 704 Smith Street was deeded to Cross Point Ministries.


This successful program has already resulted in more than nine properties being deeded to participants, with five additional properties currently in the Sweat Equity period. Since the intake period opened on July 1st, 13 new applications have been received.


Check out the latest Lot Next Door presentation from Tyecia Walton at the July 18th Committee of the Whole: www.youtube.com/live/pY1Mr3WEMj4?si=Vi9Rd-i-_6f86_pf&t=3937


The program works closely with the Hopkinsville & Christian County Land Bank Authority, a separate entity, but a vital partner in the program's success.


Holly Boggess, staff member for the Hopkinsville & Christian County Land Bank Authority, explains, “The Land Bank has the authority to clear back taxes, while the city may release liens on neglected properties, making them eligible for the Lot Next Door Program or resale.”


The Hopkinsville & Christian County Land Bank Authority has also forged several successful partnerships with contractors dedicated to transforming vacant or abandoned lots into productive properties, often affordable housing options. One notable partner, The Lincoln Real Estate Development Group, has secured more than 15 abandoned lots for this purpose. Their efforts not only enhance the safety and appearance of our community but also address the ongoing housing shortage.



Most recently, 1408-1414 College Street has been sold to WB Properties, SE LLC with the intention of developing the property into a 4-unit multi-family residential dwelling. Construction is currently underway.

“There are nearly 1,000 vacant lots in Hopkinsville and while they are not city property, the city must maintain them. The purpose of these programs is to shift the cost burden from the taxpayers to the property owners and to defend the property value of our residents who do the right thing.”


In FY 2023-2024, the city of Hopkinsville spent more than $206K on abatement for abandoned and/or neglected properties. The collaboration between the Land Bank and Lot Next Door is transforming these once costly properties into productive lots that generate tax revenue.


Mayor Knight emphasized the importance of these programs in his Growing Home Initiative, which aims to clean up the city as one of its four main components.


“The Lot Next Door and the Land Bank have significantly contributed to The Growing Home initiative. Program efforts to transfer and revitalize these properties are crucial to the city’s growth and prosperity, and it is so important that individuals are aware of opportunities through the Land Bank and Lot Next Door.”


To keep the community informed and up to date about the Land Bank and Lot Next Door, the city has created dedicated social media pages and websites. Viewers can easily follow success stories, track progress, and receive general education around these programs and how they affect our community. Mayor Knight encourages all citizens to follow these pages and seize growth opportunities as they arise. For more information about the Hopkinsville Lot Next Door program, or the Hopkinsville & Christian County Land Bank Authority, visit the city’s website, or follow us on social media.


Hopkinsville Lot Next Door:



Hopkinsville & Christian County Land Bank Authority:



 
 
 

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