City moves to condemn uninhabitable property amid health concerns

In a recent government meeting, officials addressed an appeal by Donald Heinrichs regarding a notice of condemnation for his property at 995 Wakefield Avenue, deemed unfit for human habitation. The appeal involves three main components: overgrown vegetation, refuse in the yard, and an order to vacate the structure.

Ms. Mormon, a staff member, presented the case, highlighting the urgent need for compliance with city orders. The first two issues—tall grass and weeds, along with garbage accumulation—were described as straightforward. Images displayed during the meeting showed significant overgrowth encroaching onto the sidewalk and piles of garbage bags in the backyard. The deadline for compliance was set for the day of the meeting, but a miscommunication regarding inspections left the status unclear. If the property remains non-compliant, city staff would be authorized to proceed with cleanup.

The more complex issue involves the order to vacate the property, stemming from a complaint received on August 5 about unsanitary living conditions and animal hoarding. Multiple inspection attempts were made, but access was repeatedly denied by the owner, delaying the process. An inspection on September 3 revealed severe sanitation issues, including animal feces, strong odors, and inadequate safety measures, prompting the issuance of a vacate order.

Ms. Mormon recommended a follow-up inspection to assess any improvements. If conditions have improved, inspectors have the authority to lift the condemnation. However, the property is currently considered uninhabitable, with a vacate order effective Monday, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the identified health and safety hazards.