California's redevelopment agencies are feeling pressure on numerous fronts these days. Some may go out of business next year. Still, state lawmakers are considering giving the agencies authority to buy out subprime mortgages.
California has more subprime mortgages than any other state, and redevelopment agencies are already in the business of financing housing, so the marriage may be a natural one. Plus, the subprime mess is hitting low-income neighborhoods where redevelopment agencies already operate.
While redevelopment agencies' move into "solving" the subprime loan and foreclosure situation might help struggling homeowners, it could also bolster the agencies themselves, which are trying to defend their budgets from a potential state raid.
Thanks to Paul Shigley
FULL STORY: Redevelopment Agencies May Step Into Subprime Mortgage Mess
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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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Planetizen
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Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service