Administration of blighted and derelict properties; modifies definition of 'qualifying locality.'

Administration of blighted and derelict propertiesin certain localities. Modifies the definition of "qualifyinglocality" to include any locality with a score of 100 or higher onthe fiscal stress index, as published by the Department of Housingand Community Development in July 2020. Under current law, a qualifyinglocality is one with a score of 107 or higher on the fiscal stress index, as published by the Department using revised data for 2017.Qualifying localities are able to (i) classify blighted and derelict properties as a separate class of taxable property and assess suchproperty at a higher rate and (ii) sell delinquent tax lands sixmonths after the locality has incurred abatement costs for buildingsthat have been condemned, constitute a nuisance, are a derelict building,or are declared to be blighted. The bill adds qualifying localitiesto the list of localities that have different requirements for havinga special commissioner appointed to convey tax-delinquent real estateto the locality in lieu of a public sale at auction.