Over the past 15 months, Montgomery City Councilman Andrew Szymanski has collaborated with Renasant Bank to introduce a program addressing crime, enhancing police recruitment and reinforcing Montgomery’s neighborhoods.
The initiative, known as the Community Homebuyer Loan, offers Montgomery Police Department officers an opportunity to purchase homes in the communities they serve without a down payment.
The program provides up to 100% financing with no mortgage insurance, removing financial barriers that often prevent officers from purchasing homes in the communities they serve. The initiative aims to support homeownership among Montgomery police officers while also promoting stronger connections between law enforcement and residents, ultimately contributing to community stability and safety.
Szymanski emphasized the importance of the program, saying, “During my campaign, I promised to make homeownership a reality for our officers, recognizing it as a key part of recruiting and keeping our finest. Now, that promise is becoming a reality with Renasant Mortgage.”
The Montgomery Police Department has faced mounting challenges, with crime rates rising and officer recruitment struggling to keep pace. By incentivizing officers to live in the communities they patrol, the initiative aims to build trust, deter crime and encourage long-term investment in the city’s future.
MPD Chief of Police Chief Graboys says the program is a critical step forward.
“Montgomery’s police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect this city. The Community Homebuyer Loan is a tremendous step toward ensuring they have a real stake in the communities they serve. Homeownership not only provides stability for our officers and their families but also strengthens the bonds between law enforcement and our residents.”
Renasant Bank, a key partner in the initiative, echoed Graboys’ sentiment. Brett Dickey, Renasant’s Montgomery Mortgage Production Manager, remarked, “We are passionate about finding different ways to support our community. The Community Homebuyer Loan is a great mortgage product that can benefit many of Montgomery’s public service heroes.”
Beyond its immediate impact on law enforcement, Szymanski envisions the program expanding to include other essential workers, such as 911 operators, teachers, and nurses, further solidifying its role in strengthening Montgomery’s civic foundation.
“This initiative will do more than provide home loans,” Szymanski said. “It will invite our public safety personnel to become integral neighbors in our neighborhoods, fostering a deeper connection between those who serve and the neighborhoods they protect.”
Grace Heim is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. You can follow her on X @graceeheim or email her at [email protected].
