Politics & Government

Berkeley to Purchase First of Nine Manitou Park Homes

Dilapidated home on the property will be torn down

Berkeley Township council members on Monday voted in favor of the purchase of a First Avenue home with the intention of tearing it down and converting it to affordable housing.

Mayor Carmen Amato said the home is dilapidated and one of nine in the area that is being targeted for purchase through the township's Mount Laurel trust fund.

"The money to purchase this property is not coming from taxpayers," said Amato, explaining that builders are required to contribute to the fund, which is then used to develop affordable housing in town.

The township has been approached by several organizations that specialize in affordable housing development, including O.C.E.A.N. Inc. and Homes for All, Amato said.

The township has offered the owner of the property $25,000, Amato said.

That figure is less than its assessed value of $60,700, however the building on the lot must be demolished.


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