In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the urgent need for the demolition of a hazardous building located at 1122 Vronson Street, formerly known as the Old Bentham Packers meat packing plant. The facility has become a significant public safety concern, with reports of squatters and dangerous conditions, including excessive waste and potential toxic materials like lead and asbestos.

Miss West, a city official, presented a video walkthrough of the property, highlighting the dire state of the building and the challenges faced by local law enforcement and fire departments in managing the situation. The facility has been a site for numerous safety incidents, including fires and illegal encampments, prompting calls for immediate action.

The estimated cost for demolition is approximately $374,000, a figure that raised concerns among city commissioners about the financial implications. Discussions centered on potential funding sources, including the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds designated for blight removal. However, some officials expressed hesitation about allocating such a substantial amount to a single property, suggesting that funds could be better utilized across multiple sites to enhance community aesthetics.

The city has secured a summary order of abatement, allowing for the demolition due to the extreme public safety hazard posed by the building. However, the owner, John Kastner, has been unresponsive to communications regarding the property, complicating the city's ability to move forward. City officials are considering obtaining bids for the demolition to explore cost-effective options while ensuring public safety remains a priority.

As winter approaches, the urgency to address the situation intensifies, with officials emphasizing the need to act swiftly to prevent further risks to the community. The meeting concluded with a consensus to pursue bids for the demolition, while also exploring potential avenues for communication with the property owner to address the ongoing safety concerns.