Delays Prevent Land Bank Authority Renovations, Creation of Housing

By Janell Williams

Columbus, GA — The Land Bank Authority’s efforts to revitalize the city and address its affordable housing crisis are facing delays due to staffing shortages in the Muscogee County Tax Commissioner Lula Huff's office. 

As Columbus grapples with a rising homelessness rate and a shortage of affordable housing options, community members continue to call for greater cooperation between local government agencies. 

During a recent meeting, community speakers expressed frustration with the local government's perceived lack of urgency in addressing tax delinquency and the pressing need for affordable housing.

“I’ve been waiting to start on my property for so long. I just want her [Huff] to deputize the Land Bank Authority so we can proceed,” said Elizabeth Massiah, a local property investor.

Land Bank Authority board members highlighted the potential of the Land Bank Authority to transform dilapidated properties but raised concerns about the commissioner’s office being understaffed. 

“My wife is a native here, so we visit often, said Moulin Desai, who is interested in purchasing a property in Columbus. "One thing I’ve seen over the 20 years that I've been coming here is the amount of investment that's coming here, and I'd love to be one of those investors.”

Community Reinvestment Director Rob Scott, echoed this sentiment, noting that the city is losing revenue on neglected properties and called for Huff to expedite foreclosures.

In an interview, Huff acknowledged the staffing difficulties her office faces, citing budget constraints and time-sensitive legal requirements as complicating factors. Her office is required to file several state mandated reports monthly and annually.

“Like many offices, we struggle with finding and retaining employees,” Huff stated, adding that these challenges hinder her ability to predict when renovations could proceed.

Despite the hurdles, Huff emphasized her support for the Land Bank’s mission, clarifying that her office only manages the tax sale process and does not control how properties are developed post-sale.

Still, Huff wants to assure the community that her successor, David Britt, would uphold the office's commitment to facilitating collaboration with the Land Bank Authority.

With the Land Bank's plans at a standstill, residents are eager for action to convert distressed properties into livable homes. More information can be found on the Land Bank Authority website.