In reference to the editorial "How to battle urban blight," Oct. 8, regarding the proposal of a land bank in Albany County, I was in attendance at the public meeting where the idea was discussed. And while any action that is promoted regarding pervasive urban blight is to be welcomed, it must be action that primarily is beneficial and advantageous to the city of Albany.
As Albany is home to the majority of resources that will "fund" this banking exercise, I believe the city of Albany, and not the county, should exercise more than a modicum of control over these resources.
These properties — these vacant and abandoned buildings and such — are like most things in the Capital Region's urban areas: untapped resources. These resources can and should benefit the communities in which they exist and the residents who live in those communities.
The value of these resources cannot be underestimated: Think urban renewal programs, job training programs, rental revenue for the city.
The city must garner the position of control that it merits in any such land bank venture. More than anything else, this is what must be pushed for by the residents of the communities in which these resources, these properties, reside.
A land bank is a valid idea and a solid foundation for a plan of action, but that plan of action must properly exploit these resources and the opportunity that they offer for city residents, or else it is nothing but a disservice to city residents as it pertains to resources, jobs and development.
MARLON ANDERSON
Albany