Philly steps up fight against deed fraud with new tools

The Philadelphia Housing Authority has committed to rehabbing and renting the properties, but an anti-blight nonprofit could end up with them instead.

Opponents argue the changes would overwhelm the city’s zoning board while supporters hope it would curb nuisance businesses in Philadelphia neighborhoods.

The public agency has funding to acquire new parcels for affordable housing and community gardens, but is still not a priority bidder.