NY A04399

Creates a community improvement grant program administered by the commissioner of the state division of housing and community renewal to provide financial assistance to municipalities with populations under one million persons.

Requires municipalities receiving grants to establish citizens' participation committees composed of representatives from local charitable, not-for-profit, social service, faith-based, business, and community organizations, plus interested residents.

Authorizes grant funds to be expended on property acquisition and demolition (unlimited), selective rehabilitation (up to 25 percent), neighborhood beautification (up to 20 percent), administration (up to 10 percent), property improvement mini-grants of up to $1,000 each (up to 20 percent), and planning and market studies (up to 10 percent).

Permits committees to direct municipalities to transfer vacant land acquired through grants to eligible homeowners or not-for-profit agencies for one dollar, with preference given to adjoining property owners who must maintain primary residence for at least two years.

Requires committees to develop comprehensive neighborhood plans before expending funds, with all committee proceedings subject to public officers law requirements and municipalities responsible for financial audits and general oversight.