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Commission moves on multiple unsafe-structure cases; 323 West Wall tabled until March
Summary
The commission voted to begin demolition proceedings for three properties deemed unsafe (301 N. Jefferson, 501 S. Osbon, 314 S. Scott), heard updates on the Montanez/118 East Wall barbershop red tag, and tabled action on 323 West Wall until the first meeting in March while staff seeks owner contact and land-bank options.
Fort Scott commissioners on Feb. 4 authorized demolition proceedings for three properties the codes department identified as unsafe: 301 North Jefferson, 501 South Osbon, and 314 South Scott.
Codes staff summarized site conditions: 301 North Jefferson has extensive exterior rot and failing windows; 501 South Osbon sits on an incompatible block foundation and has roof and truss damage; 314 South Scott has repeated reports of people using the structure and garage for nightly shelter and warming fires, creating a public-safety concern near a new business. Staff also reported unsuccessful long-term owner engagement on some addresses and described prior attempts to secure voluntary remediation.
The commission individually approved resolutions to begin demolition proceedings for the three addresses. Commissioners discussed whether any property owners would consider donating structures to the land bank; staff said one owner (501 Osbon) had indicated an intent to repay city costs and keep the lot but currently lacked funds to abate the structure.
Separately, at Item 8B staff updated the commission on 118 East Wall (a barbershop building). Codes reported the owner had sent an insurance-related form and that the building currently lacks insurance; staff relayed the city’s prior stipulations that red-tag removal requires a structural-engineer sign-off, a new structural engineer certification, or completion of nine stipulated repairs. Commissioners directed the city manager to obtain three repair quotes for the 118 East Wall items so the city could consider conducting necessary repairs and placing costs on the tax roll if the owner refused. Codes staff will also coordinate with an insurance agent to allow inspection where feasible.
On 323 West Wall, staff reported the land bank had expressed interest in receiving donated demolition properties to simplify title work and rehabilitation. Commissioners voted to table 323 West Wall until the first commission meeting in March to allow the land bank and staff more time to contact the owner and explore donation or demolition options.
