Commissioner Pitts Proposes Free Homes for Police Officers

What do think on Commissioner Pitts' Proposal on Free Homes for Police Officers ?

Today (Jan 9, 2009), Fulton County Commissioner Robb Pitts released preliminary details of a pilot program that would give free homes to police officers.  http://www.fultoncountyga.gov/

Pitts said, Since most jurisdictions cannot pay police officers what they deserve, providing free homes to them would be a substantial supplement to their salaries and a good tool for recruitment and retention.

Under the program, police officers would have to pay a down payment of $2,500 and commit to 15 years of service with the department in order to receive a free home, and it would have to be their primary residence. At the end of 15 years they would be given the deed to the home. During the interim, they would be responsible for all taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance.

Additionally, Pitts said the collapse of the subprime market has resulted in a huge glut of abandoned and vacant homes that negatively impact our communities. And I would like to see these single family homes occupied by police officers.

The mortgage holders, in addition to the good will that would accrue to them for assisting with public safety in the communities in which they do business, could also be eligible for tax credits.

Pitts envisions this program to be applicable to cities and counties across the country.

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