Residents tell Decatur commission 311 days without safe backyard access as retaining wall remains unrepaired

Neighbors affected by the damaged retaining wall urged the Building Standards Commission to order repairs, telling commissioners that unsafe conditions have persisted for 311 days. "For 311 days, we have not had safe access to our backyard," Brennan Williams said, asking the board to "take action and allow this matter to be resolved." (Brennan Williams)

During public comment, Brennan Williams described lost use of yards, impacts on children's play and difficulties sellers face when a yard is unsafe. An 8-year-old, Delaney Williams, testified she "hasn't been able to play outside in the backyard since October 2025" and pleaded for a fix so children can use the yard again. The commission closed the public hearing and proceeded to consider staff evidence and orders.