Vacant homes a danger for Indy

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indianapolis has been given a rare distinction, nicknamed one of the "emptiest" cities because of its high number of abandoned homes and lots.

The city says there are at least 8,000 vacant or abandoned homes in the city.

It’s not known yet how many vacant lots are here.

These areas are a major concern, known for break-ins, squatters, drugs and fires.

Total number of arson cases so far in 2012 is up to 460, 75 more than this time last year.

To fight the problem, the city is trying to organize folks in the community to brainstorm solutions and volunteer to put those solutions to work.

City leaders say things like mowing, picking up trash and putting up fences are a good start.

“It's a nuisance, it attracts malfeasance, number one, so it can help increase crime,” Councillor-At-Large John Barth said. “Number two, it gives the overall sense that neighborhood is in decline, so it stops investment and it stops other neighbors continuing to invest in their neighborhood. ”

Since January, the city has demolished 1,400 unsafe structures.

Rebuild Indy is scheduled to knock down 2,000 more by the end of this year.

But organizers say they have a lot of work left.

At tonight's hearing, they're asking the public for their ideas.

Date:    Monday, August 20, 2012

Time:    5:30 p.m.

Location: Boner Community Center (gym)

              2236 E. 10 ^th St., Indianapolis

The public can also send ideas via Twitter at #communityindy.