Concerns over foreclosed properties, rumors on social media, and millions in federal grant funds stirred an interesting debate at Thursday’s Auburn City Council meeting. From residents worried about low-income housing developments to city leaders outlining plans to revitalize neighborhoods, the meeting offered a clear snapshot of Auburn’s ongoing efforts to balance growth, community needs, and property management.
Concerns over housing and property acquisitions spark debate
Residents raised concerns over what they perceived to be a recurring trend of one investor acquiring numerous foreclosed properties in Auburn. Pamela Costa, a resident, questioned whether these purchases could lead to over-concentration of low-income housing in the city. She noted that the same individual was linked to projects on State Street and Grand Avenue, prompting worries about the future use of additional properties listed for sale.
City officials clarified that misinformation was spreading on social media regarding a homeless shelter on State Street. Mayor Jimmy Giannettino stated for the record that the project in question is a transitional housing development, not a shelter, and is designed to provide long-term stability for residents. The council did not engage in direct responses to further comments but assured the public that oversight on these projects would continue.
Council approves property sales to promote neighborhood revitalization
The council approved four resolutions for the sale of tax-foreclosed properties. Housing Visions Consultants, Inc. acquired three properties—located at Venice Street, Derby Avenue, and Lansing Street—for $5,000 each. The organization, which has a history of revitalizing Auburn neighborhoods, plans to renovate and maintain these properties as affordable housing. Conditions tied to the sales mandate that renovations must begin within 30 days of closing and be completed by December 2027. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the properties reverting to city ownership.
A fourth property, located on Seymour Street, was sold to private buyer Brandon Mallory for $40,000. Mallory has committed to rehabilitating the single-family home and reselling it. City officials emphasized that all property sales are part of a broader strategy to place foreclosed properties back on the tax rolls while ensuring they are managed by responsible owners.
Hearing highlights development goals under federal grant program
The council also conducted a public hearing on the city’s draft five-year Consolidated Plan for the Community Development Block Grant program. No public comments were made during the hearing, but city officials detailed how the funds will be used to address pressing needs, including housing rehabilitation, infrastructure upgrades, and public services.
Renee Jensen, a city planner, highlighted that over $4 million in CDBG funding had been allocated in the past five years, supporting projects such as playground improvements and sewer line repairs. Moving forward, priorities will include additional sidewalk replacements, park upgrades, and support for economic development initiatives aimed at aiding small businesses.
Councilors expressed broad support for the plan, with Mayor Giannettino praising the program as “one of the most successful federal initiatives in the country.” He added that without CDBG funding, many of the city’s recent improvements to public spaces would not have been possible.
The council is expected to vote on the final version of the CDBG plan next week after the public comment period concludes.
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