Austin City Commission addresses violations at 1500 East Twelfth Street property

The Austin Building and Standards Commission convened on April 23, 2025, to address several pressing issues regarding property maintenance and code violations in the city. The meeting began with a public testimony from David Loesky, a resident of 7712 Manassas, who expressed concerns about a nearby property that has fallen into disrepair since 1998. Loesky highlighted issues such as rodent infestations and overgrown trees, urging the commission to take action to address the deteriorating condition of the property.

Following Loesky's testimony, commissioners inquired about the status of the property owner. Code enforcement staff reported that they have been unable to contact the owner since February 2018, despite efforts to reach out. It was noted that while property taxes are being paid, the owner has not engaged with the city regarding the property's condition. Neighbors have taken it upon themselves to maintain the yard, indicating ongoing community concern.

The commission then moved to discuss an appeal concerning a commercial property located at 1500 East Twelfth Street. This case originated from a complaint about work being conducted without a permit, which led to the discovery of multiple structural violations. Investigator Willis Adams presented evidence, including photographs and documentation of the property's condition, which revealed issues such as open doors, trash accumulation, and unpermitted construction work.

Adams detailed the timeline of events, noting that the property owner had been informed of the violations but had not rectified them. The commission reviewed the amended notice of violation, which included eight unresolved structural maintenance violations. Staff recommended that the commission deny the property owner's appeal and uphold the findings of the notice.

After deliberation, the commission voted unanimously to adopt the staff's proposed findings and conclusions, thereby closing the public portion of the hearing. The order will be mailed to the property owner, signaling the commission's commitment to enforcing building standards and ensuring community safety.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Austin Building and Standards Commission in addressing property maintenance issues and the importance of community involvement in advocating for neighborhood safety and well-being. The commission's actions reflect a proactive approach to maintaining standards and responding to public concerns.