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Last updated on Tuesday, March 12, 2013
(MITCHELL) - Some of Mitchell’s most dilapidated structures have a date with the wrecking ball.
Building Commissioner Danny Baker is working diligently to update the city's building codes in an effort to beautify the city. On Feb. 28, seven properties were brought in front of the city's hearing authority for review. The city is tackling property in the worse conditions first.
The following were the results of the recent hearing:
- 1119 W. Warren St: The property owner was given 30 days to raze the burned-out house, considered a total loss after a fire. The property owner, who attended the hearing, said he would demolish the structure on his own. He was given a copy of the city's demolition standards.
- 304 S. Fourth St.: The property owner did not attend the hearing, but he was in contact with city officials, upon receiving notification. He requested 90 days to tear down the structure. That request was granted, and he was previously given a copy of the city's demolition standards.
- 457 E. Vine St.: The property owner was notified of the hearing, but never responded to the city's requests. The house, considered a total loss after it was destroyed by a fire, will be torn down by the city, and the city attorney will work to recoup the costs through judgments and liens.
- 507 Crawford St.: The property owner couldn't be located. Certified mail came back undeliverable, and two legal notices were published in the newspaper. The vacant mobile home, ravaged by scrap metal thieves, will be demolished by the city, and the city attorney will work to recoup the costs through judgments and liens.
- 219 S. Sixth St.: The structure is not safe for habitation because of structural problems, including the fact that the roof is caving in. The owner of the rental property could not be located. More notifications will be sent out, and a hearing on the property will be scheduled later this spring.
- 407 W. Frank St.: The garage is dilapidated and needs to be demolished. Both the property owner and the person buying the property on land contract were at the hearing. The owners agreed to demolish the building, requesting 90 days to get the job finished. They were given until April 1, and said an extension may be granted before that date if there is noticeable improvements made to the property.
- 115 E. Frank St.: The city made contact with the property owner, and he is aware of the situation surrounding the outbuilding. The hearing on the property was pushed back until March 19 to give the owner time to thoroughly assess the situation.
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