Staff reports progress on corridor demolition cases; asbestos testing and competitive bids pending on several properties

Planning Director Elizabeth Blount briefed the council on the Corridor Demolition Program, a county-led effort that identified seven properties along primary corridors with condemnation orders. Several parcels are awaiting asbestos testing and updated demolition bids for county action; others have deadlines or have been given additional time to make repairs. Blount also summarized the city’s internal cleanup project: 77 properties initially nonresponsive and a second hearing scheduled for 11 properties on Sept. 3, 2026.

Councilmember Les Lipford asked why asbestos testing was required even when structures appear collapsed; Blount explained that North Carolina law mandates asbestos testing prior to demolition and that if asbestos is present, certified abatement is required before removal—an important cost driver. Staff said they will seek competitive bids to manage abatement and demolition costs.