Controlling what goes on in a community is easier if you control how real estate is used. Acquire decaying houses and renovate them for sale to first-time buyers. Decaying buildings drag down community real estate values. Home ownership builds community commitment and stability. Convert apartment buildings into tenant-owned cooperatives.
Tenants make the best property managers if the incentives are properly aligned.
Establish a zero tolerance program for truancy. Exact fines with community service options. Keeping school children in school helps reduce random acts of crime as well as increasing the return on education. Approach the local college or university for help with professional services and advice, not just from professors but from undergraduate and graduate students too. For instance, the Architecture Department can help design and plan a new street-scape for the commercial district, or improve the appearance of the community park.