Commission approves condemnation resolution for 1641 South Main after owner confirms insurance settlement

The commission adopted a resolution authorizing repair or demolition of the commercial structure at 1641 South Main after staff presented photographic evidence of tornado damage and recommended action under city code. Staff described multiple motel buildings as “unsafe, unsanitary, and unfit for human use,” with exposed interiors and roof loss following the April 13 tornado; staff recommended adoption of the attached resolution to preserve the city’s options if work did not begin promptly.

Ashish Patel, representing the owner, told the commission the insurance claim had been fully resolved and the mortgage lender paid, and that owners have selected demolition as the likely outcome. “The insurance claim has been fully resolved,” Patel said, and ownership expects to proceed with asbestos testing, permitting and demolition; he estimated demolition would take approximately three to four weeks once contractors mobilize and asked the commission to recognize the progress made. Staff and the commission discussed flexibility for start‑of‑work (counting permit application as a start) and noted asbestos can change the demolition timeline. The commission adopted the resolution by roll call (unanimous yes), authorizing the city to issue notices and, if necessary, carry out demolition and place a lien for costs.