During a recent government meeting, the Lancaster City Council addressed the certification of three properties as blighted: 739-741 Manor Street, 758 Manor Street, and 522 Woodward Street. The discussion highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by property owners in the city, particularly regarding the rehabilitation process and communication with city officials.

The Property Reinvestment Board reviewed the conditions of the three properties, which have been under scrutiny for blight. City staff recommended certifying these properties as blighted, a designation that allows the Lancaster Redevelopment Authority to consider rehabilitation agreements with current or new owners. If no agreement is reached, the properties may be subject to eminent domain.

Vice Chair Miss Sufort noted that the properties have undergone extensive discussions and outreach efforts to the homeowners, but no successful rehabilitation agreements have been established. The properties have been in the blight certification process for varying lengths of time, with one dating back to 2018.

During public comments, Esseguerre from Brandon Wine Investments spoke on behalf of the owner of 739-741 Manor Street, expressing concerns about the lack of communication and support from the city. He highlighted the owner's financial commitment to rehabilitating the property and criticized the speed at which the blight certification process has progressed. Esseguerre emphasized the need for empathy and guidance for homeowners facing challenges, particularly those dealing with personal hardships.

The discussion also revealed that the city had previously attempted to work with the homeowner to address code violations, but communication issues hindered progress. City officials reiterated that safety concerns, particularly regarding electrical issues, necessitated the current actions.

The meeting concluded with a motion to certify the properties as blighted, which will allow for further consideration by the Lancaster Redevelopment Authority. The ongoing dialogue underscores the complexities of property rehabilitation in Lancaster and the importance of effective communication between city officials and property owners.