PEORIA, IL—State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) applauds a new law to help communities care for vacant and abandoned property.

“When I talk to neighborhood association leaders throughout Peoria, one of their number one concerns is neighborhood blight due to vacant and abandoned homes,” said Gordon-Booth. “This new law will help cities and lenders reduce the number of empty homes by expediting the foreclosure process.”

The new law creates a fast track for residential property. After the lending institution files a petition to declare the property “abandoned residential property” the foreclosure process would be reduced to approximately 150 days from 494 days currently. The bill also uses foreclosure filing fees to help municipalities maintain and clean up abandoned properties. A portion of these funds will also be used for housing counseling services.

“This new law will help provide the City of Peoria with additional resources that they need to help keep our neighborhoods safe,” said Gordon-Booth. “Maintaining the appearance of vacant homes will help reduce criminal activity in our neighborhoods. I will continue to work with state and local leaders to find additional ways to reduce violence and crime in our community.”

For more information about this or other pieces of legislation, please contact Gordon-Booth’s constituent service office at (309) 681-1992.