by Jackie Nunnery
LANCASTER—Kilmarnock resident John Guzak on Thursday, May 29, made a presentation to Lancaster County supervisors urging them to tackle the problem of chronically vacant or blighted properties which he said, “represent a loss of multiple tax revenues, hinder commercial growth and limit affordable housing,” greatly affecting key components of the Lancaster 2035 Strategic Plan.
Guzak highlighted a number of commercial and residential properties, some well known to residents, throughout the county, suggesting a 5% “blight tax” may encourage property owners to take action and garner additional revenue for the county.
He suggested setting up a task force to address the issue, saying that properties should be “rented, razed, sold or improved.” He said he had spoken to state Sen. Richard Stuart, who informed him of Senate Bill 1476, recently signed into law and….
