Community Partnerships and Resources
The following are valuable partnering local agencies that help fulfill the mission of the Macon-Bibb County Affordable Housing Fund (MBCAHF) and may serve as crucial resources for developers and homebuyers seeking to benefit from the fund. We encourage you to read the descriptions of these organizations and connect with our partners to explore collaborative opportunities that support your initiatives.
Land Acquisition
The mission of the Macon-Bibb County Land Bank Authority, Inc. is to create vibrant communities through the elimination of blighted properties, creation of affordable housing opportunities and enhancing economic activities in a manner consistent with local government plans and priorities.
The Land Bank Authority holds an inventory of tax foreclosed properties with clear and marketable titles starting at $2,500. Click the button below to be directed to the list of available properties and instructions on how to apply.
Predevelopment
Any project, from building a fence to constructing a department store, likely requires a "Certificate of Zoning Compliance" from the Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Commission to ensure it aligns with Macon-Bibb County’s Zoning Regulations.
To obtain this certificate, your application must be approved by the Planning and Zoning department and then reviewed by various other departments. Once all approvals are secured, Planning and Zoning will issue the certificate.
A valid Certificate of Zoning Compliance is necessary for both a Building Permit and a Business License. Additionally, any construction over $2,500 requires a Building Permit.
Visit the P&Z website for more information, and the application to apply.
Voucher Program
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, funded by HUD and administered by the Macon Housing Authority (MHA) in Bibb County, provides rental assistance to low-income individuals, families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Tenants typically pay 30% of their adjusted family income for rent and utilities, with MHA covering the rest.
Qualified households find rental units in the private market, and MHA ensures these units meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS). Once a unit is approved, the family and landlord sign a lease, and MHA signs a Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Contract with the landlord, paying the subsidy directly.
MHA values partnerships with local landlords to secure affordable housing and continually seeks new participants for the Section 8/HCV program.
Homebuyer Assistance
HomeFirst Housing Resource Services, Inc. is the only "Comprehensive HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency" in the Middle Georgia area offering access to resources and information about all aspects of homeownership. HomeFirst can be utilized for any homeownership project to identify an eligible buyer that meets income requirements.
Organizations Offering Application Technical Assistance
One of NewTown Macon’s primary functions is helping create a vibrant, beautiful, and economically robust downtown community. By helping local developers find, finance, and create incredible real estate projects, they are literally building tomorrow’s Macon by;
Providing up-to-date analysis of the market so developers can make wise decisions.
Making sure developers make full use of Macon’s many tax and business incentives.
Offering the Developer’s Academy, their ‘real estate bootcamp’ where real estate amateurs become professionals and professionals become titans.
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides tools, training and resources to help small businesses grow and succeed. Designated as one of Georgia’s top providers of small business assistance, the SBDC has 18 offices ranging from Tome to Valdosta to serve the needs of Georgia’s business community.
Organizations Highlighting What Makes Macon a Great Investment
ChooseMacon.com is an initiative by the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce, funded by the Peyton Anderson Foundation. It promotes Macon, Georgia, highlighting its vibrant arts scene, diverse job opportunities, and welcoming neighborhoods. The site aims to attract talent and businesses by showcasing Macon's unique blend of history, innovation, and Southern charm.
The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) is the lead agency for attracting new business investment, encouraging the expansion of existing industries and improving the quality of life in the Macon-Bibb County area.
MBCIA has generated more than $1.87 billion in private investments, created 3,400 new jobs from industries that include Amazon, Irving Consumer Products, Tyson Foods, Nichiha Fiber Cement and Kumho Tires Georgia.
Macon-Bibb County Code Enforcement has played a crucial role in Macon, Georgia's Blight Fight initiative. Since its establishment in 2021, the department has focused on identifying and addressing blighted properties, which often include abandoned buildings, overgrown lots, and structures in disrepair. These efforts have significantly improved neighborhood aesthetics, safety, and property values, contributing to the overall revitalization of Macon.
