LEGISLATIVE FINDING; PUBLIC PURPOSES.

(a) The legislature finds that the activities specified in this chapter contribute to the development of viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and by expanding economic opportunities for persons of low and moderate income.

(b) Activities conducted under this chapter are directed toward the following purposes:

(1) elimination of slums and areas affected by blight;

(2) prevention of blighting influences and of the deterioration of property and neighborhood and community facilities important to the welfare of the community;

(3) elimination of conditions detrimental to the public health, safety, and welfare;

(4) expansion and improvement of the quantity and quality of community services essential for the development of viable urban communities;

(5) more rational use of land and other natural resources;

(6) improved arrangement of residential, commercial, industrial, recreational, and other necessary activity centers;

(7) restoration and preservation of properties of special value for historic, architectural, or aesthetic reasons;

(8) reduction of the isolation of income groups in communities and geographical areas, promotion of increased diversity and vitality of neighborhoods through spatial deconcentration of housing opportunities for persons of low and moderate income, and revitalization of deteriorating or deteriorated neighborhoods to attract persons of higher income; and

(9) alleviation of physical and economic distress through the stimulation of private investment and community revitalization in slum or blighted areas.