Commission concurs with Housing Board of Appeals to demolish three unsafe properties

Staff presented three properties that the Housing Board of Appeals had found unsafe and recommended for demolition after notice and multiple attempts to reach owners. Director Kozel summarized the history for each property (years of code enforcement, fire or structural damage in some cases and lack of owner response). The city attorney explained owners may file a writ of superintending control in circuit court within 21 days; if filed, staff will seek either a consent judgment with deadlines and a deposit for work or ask the court to uphold the HBA decision and authorize demolition.

Commissioners concurred with the HBA findings on all three properties and authorized staff to proceed with demolition steps if judicial relief is not sought or if court processes authorize demolition. Staff estimated demolition costs per house in the $13,000–$15,000 range (including capping and grading).