As of July 1, 2009 the Portsmouth City Health Department is launching its new Land Reutilization Program. The Program utilizes the Ohio Revised Code by taking possession of abandoned properties through a foreclosure process, strip away any liens, and sell the properties to citizens at a low fair price. The citizens in turn agree to tear down the existing structure, renovate the property and structure or maintain it if it is an empty lot. All properties are subject to a probation period upon the sale to insure compliance of all City Ordinances.

The first seven (7) properties are now ready for sale, and another twenty properties that are going through the foreclosure process. Citizens can view the properties for sale under the Land Reutiliztion section on this website. A printable application is also available for individuals to obtain on this website or by visiting the Health Department at 605 Washington Street. Applicants are interviewed prior to their application being submitted to a Committee Review Board. The Committee then chooses the best applicant that will most contribute to the revitalization of the community.

Applications for the first seven properties are due by July 13, 2009. The properties that are not bid on or are not sold will continue to be for sale and can be viewed through the website. New properties will be posted periodically as their forclosure procedures are completed. Real-time information can also be obtained by following the Health Department's Twitter account at www.twitter.com/portsmouthhd. For more information contact the Coordinator of the Land Reutilization Program, Becky Steele, at the Portsmouth City Health Department at 740-353-5153 Ext. 227.