22-05-2025
‘Mow to Own' program allows man to possess vacant lot
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A man was awarded a vacant lot previously owned by the City of Memphis through the city's 'Mow to Own' Program on Tuesday.
The program allows Memphians to take ownership of city-owned properties that are adjacent to theirs.
Michael Gladney, 64, is a retired mechanic, and he now owns a brand new lot on Speed Street.
Whitehaven resident Gladney says he feels good now that he has a piece of property.
He said two years ago he used to live right next to a vacant lot on Speed Street.
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Gladney said he mowed the lawn of the North Memphis property every two weeks for the past three years.
'All you gotta do is keep the maintenance up on it. Keep it cut, keep it edged, and always take a before and after photo, so that way you have proof,' said Gladney.
'It's a win, win for the property owners and the city of Memphis as it would allow those particular properties to become useful again in the community by allowing property owners to extend their property lines, and it would allow that property to be back on the tax rolls and become a productive part of our community,' said Carleton Osborn, City of Memphis Real Estate Manager.
'Call and ask if this property will qualify for the Mow to Own program, and we will be able to research and get the answers that you need to have you qualify for the program,' said Osborn.
Gladney says he is thinking about building a getaway home on the other side of town to relax.
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