New Albany, IN (WDRB) -- A New Albany subdivision that many are calling an eyesore will soon see bulldozers. Some homes in Linden Meadows will be torn down.
Homeowner Greg Bell says, "The deer were really bad. I've got a garden, but the donkey keeps them out now."
Bell is enjoying a peaceful life in Linden Meadows with his pet donkey named "Dinky." He bought the foreclosed property a year ago and says he loves his house. But what he doesn't love is his view from his front porch.
Bell says, "It's kind of an eyesore to look at. Some of the houses are not too bad like this one, but the rest of them need to go."
All along Linden Street, the homes are vacant. Grass is growing out of control, windows are broken, and some homes even have siding stripped off.
The New Albany Building Commission voted Monday to bulldoze 16 abandoned homes, citing safety concerns. It's expected to happen in 30 days, but New Albany's mayor says a few homes may be spared.
Back in 2005, when Floyd Memorial Hospital expanded, it donated these homes. The original plan was to help low and moderate income families become first time home owners. But the project never moved forward, a lawsuit left the previous developer bankrupt, and now, seven years later it sits empty.
The city says it's looking at different options for the land. It could become a park.
Bell says, "Open field is nice for me. It would be nice and quiet. It would be fine with me, if they tear it down and leave it empty."
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