Hobbs Commission orders condemnation process for 2001 East Clinton after stair collapse

The Hobbs City Commission on Tuesday voted to begin a condemnation process for exterior stairwells and second‑floor access at the Hobbs Apartments, 2001 East Clinton, after city inspectors concluded stairwells were “ruined, damaged and dilapidated” and an occupant fell through a step on July 28. The motion to proceed with condemnation passed 5–2 (Smith, Fields, Calderon, Girth and Mayor Cobb voting yes; Mills and Penick voting no).

City staff told commissioners that inspectors found extensive corrosion and cracking in stairwells across the complex and that 35 stair assemblies were unsafe for regular use. “We are asking that the commission, deem that this property is ruined, damaged, dilapidated,” Jessica Silva, community services superintendent, told the commission during the presentation. The staff recommendation invoked the city’s condemnation authority and cited building, fire and model codes as the legal basis for action.

The commission’s action starts a process that, under city procedure discussed at the meeting, gives the owner a period to perform repairs but also allows the city to post notices and require remediation. Scott Shedd, building supervisor, and…