Notwithstanding the provisions of § 44-9-18, the treasurer may transfer and assign any or all tax titles held by a city or town for no monetary consideration to the redevelopment agency of the city or town. The transfer shall not confer upon the redevelopment agency any greater rights or responsibilities than those granted to or imposed upon the city or town as the original holder of the tax title. The redevelopment agency shall hold any tax title transferred or assigned subject to any and all rights of redemption held by the owner of record and/or his or her successors and assigns in title. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the redevelopment agency shall also hold and be permitted to exercise any rights that the city or town previously held, including the right to petition for foreclosure of any rights of redemption.