Resident raises ongoing concerns about two long-vacant properties; city says both are in litigation

During public comment, resident Joe Scarrupa urged council action on two vacant and dilapidated properties: an old BP service station and a shuttered hotel behind a car wash. The mayor and the law director said both properties are the subject of active legal proceedings.Why it matters: Long-vacant commercial properties can depress neighborhood appearance, create safety concerns and draw repeated public complaints. The city reported it had pursued demolition and other enforcement options but encountered court actions. The law director said the BP site was nearly at demolition but an injunction halted the city's plan; he added the city is negotiating a settlement agreement that would require the property owner to make specific improvements.Regarding the hotel (Key Inn), the law director said the city obtained an injunction through the county court to cease operations because of safety issues; the property also went through foreclosure and sheriff sale attempts. The director said the hotel is being considered for purchase by a third party that might return it to productive use, but the city will take additional steps if a near-term resolution does not materialize. The mayor and law director emphasized they are constrained by court processes but are pursuing remedies and will take additional steps if the properties are not rehabilitated or sold. No formal council action was taken at the meeting on those properties.