Council keeps several derelict properties on demolition list, offers conditional extensions

Council reviewed a list of properties slated for demolition on first reading at the Feb. 24 meeting and heard from several owners seeking more time to repair or demolish structures.

At 3016 3rd Avenue, owner Benjamin Hardy asked for a brief extension and said dumpsters were placed onsite and demolition contractors were scheduled. Council noted the item was on first reading and staff said they would work with the owner provided steady progress is made.

For 828 1st Avenue, Colin Rich of FF Asset Fund 1 LLC described paid invoices totaling roughly $40,000 for exterior work that contractors have not completed and said he is pursuing refunds or completion from the contractor. He said a new contractor is lined up for interior work once exterior work is finished.

Council members and staff pressed owners for clear benchmarks. Councilor Kogel and others described neighborhood concerns — including animals living under structures and visible deterioration — and staff said inspections and codes would provide specific milestones and that a three‑month window is typical to demonstrate progress. The mayor warned that extensions are limited and that the council is unlikely to grant another extension if progress halts.

These demolition items were presented as first reading only and will return to council at a future meeting for potential action if benchmarks are not met.