Commission continues Berkman Drive fire‑damage case to October amid probate and insurance delays

Inspector Jose Castillo told the Building and Standards Commission that a fire‑damaged home at 7501 Berkman Drive remains unoccupied, boarded and without permits for repair or demolition. Castillo said he observed collapsed roof elements and other fire‑related damage and that follow‑up inspections showed no corrective action.

A representative for the property explained that the owner, Gregory J. Kelly, is deceased and that probate proceedings are underway. The representative said insurance proceeds are blocked until the court issues testamentary documents and that he is paying a mortgage and maintaining another residence while the probate is unresolved.

Staff recommended a 45‑day compliance window to obtain permits and correct violations and a civil penalty structure that would begin accruing after day 46. Commissioners voted to continue the case to the commission's October meeting so the property representative could provide additional probate documentation and evidence of progress toward funding and permitting.

The commission emphasized that continuance is intended to give time for the owner’s representative to return with documentation and to show tangible progress on funding, permitting, and work rather than to indefinitely delay enforcement.