Pickle Properties given 60 days to submit plans to restore 1719 West Ninth in Freeport

Chris Burns, managing member of Pickle Properties, told the Board of Adjustment he purchased 1719 West Ninth on Aug. 30 and intends to restore the property to habitable condition and likely sell after rehabilitation.

"Our goal is to restore it to its, you know, former glory," Burns said, describing the property's complex title history and stating the RV previously on site has been removed and the yard cleaned. City staff told the board they had reviewed progress and recommended allowing 60 days for the owner to submit plans per the engineer's report.

Board members expressed a desire to preserve housing stock. The board unanimously approved staff's recommendation, giving the owner 60 days to begin the plan‑submission process and return with details. Burns thanked the board and was urged to work with Shelby and city staff if he encounters unexpected issues.

Separately, city staff reported on two commercial properties where asbestos removal is underway or testing is delaying demolition: 530 West Second Street is undergoing asbestos removal before demolition; 206 West Park tested positive for asbestos and remains under review.