Why Isn't Easton Using This HUD Incentive for Officers?

One idea for a police officer housing incentive that has been suggested by WW residents to the Mayor and City officials several times in the last two years in various meetings is the already-existing HUD incentive for police, firemen and teachers. Here's how it works (this is taken from the HUD web site):

About Good Neighbor Next Door

Law enforcement officers, pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade teachers and firefighters/emergency medical technicians can contribute to community revitalization while becoming homeowners through HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program. HUD offers a substantial incentive in the form of a discount of 50% from the list price of the home. In return you must commit to live in the property for 36 months as your sole residence.

How the Program Works

Eligible Single Family homes located in revitalization areas are listed exclusively for sales through the Good Neighbor Next Door Sales program. Properties are available for purchase through the program for five days.

How to Participate in Good Neighbor Next Door

Check the listings for your state. Follow the instructions to submit your interest in purchasing a specific home. If more than one person submits on a single home a selection will be made by random lottery. You must meet the requirements for a law enforcement officer, teacher, firefighter or emergency medical technician and comply with HUD's regulations for the program.

HUD requires that you sign a second mortgage and note for the discount amount. No interest or payments are required on this "silent second" provided that you fulfill the three-year occupancy requirement.

The number of properties available is limited and the list of available properties changes weekly.

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I looked at the listings on this site for Easton and there are currently two HUD properties, 807 Bushkill and 1534 Spring Garden that are available for purchase. Does anyone out there know why we haven't taken advantage of this program yet? This is a huge incentive--much more than $7000. These properties cost $63K and $85K respectively, and officers could be betting 50% off that price is they commit to living in the neighborhood for three years.

Please post if you know of any time Easton has used this program in the last three years, or if you know a reason why we have not taken advantage of this program in the West Ward.