Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation/Recontruction Program  

   As a direct result of the Arthur Andersen Housing Performance Review, the Housing & Neighborhood Services Department has recently assumed responsibility for the Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation/Reconstruction Program, previously administered by the San Antonio Development Agency (SADA). Low-income homeowners needing repairs apply for financial assistance to renovate their house. Once a family is determined eligible, a construction specialist assesses the property to determine the repairs necessary to meet local building codes. If a project is deemed economically infeasible for repairs, the home is reconstructed. 

Indian Creek Revitalization Project 

   During the 1970's, an isolated community known as Indian Creek was created on the southwest side of town by Ray Ellison developers. These small homes were marketed to military families at Lackland AFB. During the 1980's, many of these homes were abandoned, foreclosed and left vacant. Investors purchased the homes for less than market value, turning them into rental property. Eventually, the neighborhood deteriorated, crime increased, and the property values declined. 

   In 1994, a task force was created to address the problem. A decision was made to fund the Indian Creek Revitalization Project with CDBG funds. The purpose of the program was to increase homeowner investment in the neighborhood by providing homeowners with incentives to finance needed improvements to their property. This incentive was offered in the form of forgivable and low-interest home improvement loans not to exceed $35,000.00 or 75% of the after rehabilitation appraised value. 

The program requirements included: 

• The property remains residential property under the existing ownership for the duration of the loan. If the property is transferred by any means, the loan becomes immediately due and payable;
  
• The owner maintains the property according to the San Antonio Uniform Building Code;
  
• The owner provide evidence of having paid annual taxes and secured fire and extended insurance coverage for the prorate during the loan term;
  
• The owner agrees to participate in the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Program, Citizens on Patrol Using Cellular Phones Program, and other programs that contribute to the stability and safety of the neighborhood.