DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) The Dallas City Council approved a Neighborhood Empowerment Zone. It iss to act as a catalyst in the rehab and creation of affordable housing in Dallas. Seven areas of the city were chosen including Casa view, neighborhoods near Red Bird Mall, LBJ/Skillman and Hamilton Park, Vickery Midtown, West Dallas, the Forest District west of Fair Park, and the Bottom and Tenth Street Historic District.
“The staff and I are excited to roll out the NEZ program,” said David Noguera, director of the Department of Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization. “This program is especially good for long-term homeowners, many of whom have raised their families in these neighborhoods, and who are struggling with rising property taxes. The program also benefits middle-income folks, especially young families who would choose to live in Dallas if they could find a home they can afford.”
Homeowners, developers, and landlords can qualify for the development fee reimbursements and a 10 year city tax abatement by meeting certain criteria including, building a new home on a vacant lot and selling it to a household making under 120% of the area median income or spending at least $5,000 renovating their home and making under 120% percent of the AMI.
An application process and community meetings on the NEZ will begin this spring.