Columbus Land Bank

The Columbus Land Bank was created in 2019 to focus on the conversion of vacant, abandoned, tax-delinquent, or otherwise underused properties into productive use.

These properties are sometimes known as blighted properties. They destabilize neighborhoods, create fire and safety hazards, drive down property values, and drain local tax dollars.

The purpose of the Columbus Land Bank is to acquire problem properties, eliminate the liabilities, and transfer these properties to new, responsible owners. This transparent transfer results in outcomes consistent with community-based plans.

Every transfer of property from the Columbus Land Bank will be accompanied by a development agreement, outlining the final use of the property, as well as accompanying timelines. The Board of Trustees is presented with Completed Property Purchase Applications, Development Agreements, Financial Documentation, and the Land Use Review Form at their regular meeting. They will then vote to either approve or disapprove the Development Agreement and sale of the property.

The Land Bank Board of Trustees meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 4:30 PM at City Hall. Meetings are open to the public. Land Bank Board Members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council.

Current Land Bank Board of Trustees:

Matt Ross

Jennifer Thompson

Chad Epler

Tyler Speer

Tony Shearburn