The Warren County Board of Commissioners approved awarding a demolition contract to local contractor AJ Hetrick after staff presented four bids and said Midland Mortgage — the mortgage servicer for the property owner — requested a 60-day extension to pursue foreclosure and possibly fund the demolition.

County staff described four bids ranging from about $10,000 to roughly $15,265 for complete demolition, removal of debris, filling the foundation and seeding. "AJ is $10,000," a staff member reported. "Chris at B and D was $15,265.29." Staff said the mortgage servicer told them it would consider paying a contractor if it foreclosed and that Midland had requested more time to coordinate bids and potential HUD funding.

Commissioners discussed timing and site conditions, including vehicles and other debris on the lot. Staff said contractors priced the job to remove the house, haul debris away and fill the foundation; one contractor noted his bid had a 30-day window during which prices could rise. A county staff member explained the county would send enforcement costs to Midland Mortgage after demolition and could attach unpaid costs as a lien, which could be pursued in the foreclosure if Midland took title.

After discussion a board member moved to award the contract to AJ Hetrick, with the county to pay from the unsafe-building account. The motion was seconded and the board voted in favor. The board directed staff to obtain a corrected bid document from AJ and to proceed with scheduling. A county official said staff will pursue reimbursement from the mortgage servicer when appropriate.

The record shows the board approved the contract award and the motion passed with an affirmative voice vote.