In the midst of a debate on the success of Atlanta’s housing stabilization program, Professor Dan Immergluck of Georgia Tech’s School of City & Regional Planning believes one thing is clear: government will take the brunt of the financial load no matter what policy is adopted. As these dilapidated properties depress the tax base, they also use more government services. A vacant house typically requires more code officers, police officers and firefighters than occupied properties, Immergluck said.