Council moves to demolish dangerous building after years of neglect

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the deteriorating condition of a property located at Seven Fairground Road, which has been a point of contention for over 18 months following a fire in February 2023. Robert Grant, the code enforcement officer, reported that while the property owners, the Kaslaskis family, had taken some steps to secure the building—boarding up windows and doors—serious concerns remain regarding pest control and the overall safety of the structure.

Grant noted that an exterminator had been contacted only recently, and while external measures were being taken to address rodent issues, no extermination had occurred inside the house due to its hazardous condition. He urged the council to deem the building dangerous and consider demolition, citing the ongoing risks to the neighborhood.

The council members expressed mixed feelings about the situation. Some emphasized the need for immediate action to protect the community, while others were hesitant to infringe on the property owners' rights and personal belongings. The discussion highlighted the balance between maintaining neighborhood safety and respecting individual property rights.

The insurance claim related to the property has been closed, leaving the family without financial support for repairs. Council members debated whether to provide the family with additional time to demonstrate a plan for rehabilitation or to proceed with demolition. Ultimately, a motion was made to officially classify the building as dangerous, which would allow for demolition to be overseen by city officials, while still providing the family a 30-day window to appeal the decision or present a viable plan for the property.

The council's decision reflects a growing urgency to address the safety hazards posed by the property, while also navigating the complexities of property rights and community standards. The outcome of this situation will likely set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.