Council hears residents' concerns over neglected property on Mountain Terrace

Concerns over a neglected property in Hurst took center stage at the City Council meeting on June 24, 2025, as residents voiced their frustrations about its deteriorating condition. The property, located at 1016 Mountain Terrace, has become a source of distress for neighbors, particularly due to a swimming pool that has attracted mosquitoes and a growing rat problem.

Residents, including the Bakers from 1020 Mountain Terrace, expressed their worries about the impact of the property's state on their quality of life and property values. "We really can't even sit outside anymore," one resident stated, highlighting the ongoing issues that have persisted for some time. They also noted that the presence of rats has forced them to take matters into their own hands by placing bait on the property.

During the public hearing, Cynthia Thornton, a neighbor from 1205 Wooded Trail, shared her own experiences with the property, mentioning that she had reported it to code enforcement due to overgrown weeds. The residents' testimonies underscored a growing urgency for the city to take action.

City officials revealed that there have been inquiries about potential buyers for the property, but no concrete developments have emerged. The Mayor reiterated that the city continues to maintain the property while awaiting further updates from interested parties. However, the lack of communication from the title company regarding liens has left the situation unresolved.

As discussions progressed, council members contemplated the possibility of issuing a demolition order for the property. A key question arose: if ownership changes hands, would that affect the demolition order? This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to an already troubling situation.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from residents: they are seeking swift action to address the issues surrounding the property, emphasizing the need for a resolution that protects their community's well-being and property values. The council's next steps remain to be seen as they navigate the challenges posed by this ongoing concern.