The land bank is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with public funding. It was created by our county’s board of commissioners and incorporated with the Ohio Secretary of State. Further, our operating document was approved by our county commissioners. 

In order to ensure an ongoing, balanced, and diverse perspective, the land bank also has a board of directors that includes both local government officials and private board members. 

This allows for a more comprehensive and fair decision-making process when it comes to managing and utilizing land in Ashland County. 

Don’t be. 

The land bank was created to improve and stabilize our community by acquiring and repurposing vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent properties—the ones you wish someone would fix. 

We collaborate with our local government and community organizations to find solutions for these properties, such as selling them to responsible buyers or transforming them into green spaces. 

If you happen to come across a property in poor condition, you can always contact us to investigate. We may offer to acquire the property, but rest assured, the owner always has the final say. 

And the best part? Our efforts can even increase the value of your property! 

When a property in Ohio is identified as vacant, abandoned, or tax delinquent, the land bank will be contacted either through donation or tax foreclosure. The land bank will then conduct a title search to determine the ownership and any outstanding liens on the property. 

If the property is eligible for acquisition, the land bank will negotiate with the current owner to purchase the property or receive the donation. 

The land bank conducts a thorough property investigation search by gathering information from various sources such as public records, tax records, and other relevant databases. 

This allows us to assess the condition and value of the property, as well as any potential legal issues or liabilities associated with it. This information is then used to determine the best course of action for the property.

Land banks in Ohio are funded through a combination of sources, including: 

• State of Ohio funding
• Land sales/costs & fees of transactions
• Delinquent property tax revenue
• Grants
• Donations

The county and its cities don’t own or manage residential and commercial properties, especially ones that are in trouble. The land bank is a great solution to quickly take over and improve struggling properties, which helps our county thrive.