Council authorizes $23,780 to demolish condemned building at 119 Main Street

The Elkins City Council voted to accept the low bid and authorize a $23,780 expenditure from the financial stabilization account to demolish the condemned structure at 119 Main Street. Council discussion focused on the condition of the building and the public‑safety risk it creates.

Councilor Savarina (speaker 7) described the structure as “a severe safety hazard,” saying the building had been condemned, was frequented by people engaging in drug use and other dangerous activity, and had recently been the scene of a stabbing. The council moved and approved Resolution 19‑55 by voice vote; staff said procedural notifications to property owners and the bid process had been followed and that a lien will be placed against the property, though officials did not expect to recover the demolition costs.

Next steps: staff will authorize the contractor to proceed under the accepted bid and record a lien against the property. The council did not provide a timeline for debris removal or follow‑up reuse of the parcel at the meeting.