City Council approves demolition of three condemned houses on Marable Street

The Bastrop City Council convened on March 13, 2025, to address several pressing issues concerning local housing and community services. The meeting began with a focus on the demolition of condemned properties, specifically three houses located at 806, 808, and 816 Marable Street. These properties had previously been condemned by the council due to their deteriorating conditions, which had become a source of concern for local residents.

Council members discussed a proposal to engage a licensed nonprofit contractor to demolish these houses at a total cost of $8,500, funded through allocated American Rescue Plan (ARP) money. The contractor's bid included $3,000 for two houses and $2,500 for the third. The council expressed urgency in moving forward with the demolition, citing community complaints about safety and nuisance issues related to the properties.

The discussion highlighted the procedural steps required for condemnation, including the necessity of an engineer's report to confirm the structures posed a danger. Council members emphasized the importance of adhering to these procedures to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Following the demolition discussion, the council addressed a cooperative endeavor agreement regarding repairs for a home on 853 Forest Avenue. The homeowner had experienced sewer issues and sought assistance for approximately $1,800 worth of flooring repairs. The council proposed to settle this claim by utilizing funds to cover the repair costs, which would also release the city from any potential litigation related to the incident.

In addition to these housing issues, council members discussed upcoming community initiatives, including a scheduled cleanup event and a dumpster day for residents in District 8. This initiative aims to encourage community participation in maintaining local cleanliness and addressing any remaining concerns about neighborhood conditions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing housing safety and community welfare, with plans for immediate action on condemned properties and support for residents facing home repair challenges. The council will continue to monitor these issues and engage with the community to ensure a safe and healthy living environment.