Atchison sets June 16 show‑cause hearings on two deteriorated houses; commissioners note neighbor safety concerns

The Atchison City Commission voted to set public show‑cause hearings for potential demolition of two properties—1034 Santa Fe Street and 415 Laramie Street—scheduling both hearings for June 16.

City staff said both structures have extensive deterioration, no occupants and outstanding issues that prompted neighbor complaints and utility concerns. The hearings will give owners and interested parties a forum to respond before the city considers demolition orders.

Curtis (city building/code official) presented photos and details for 1034 Santa Fe Street, saying the foundation is failing in multiple locations and the structure is shifting. "Windows are bad. It hasn't had water since 02/2014," Curtis said, adding that the owner is deceased and the daughter who inherited the estate has not completed repairs or sale. Curtis told commissioners he calculated about $42,314 in conservative repair costs but noted a structural analysis would likely be required because of foundation movement. He also said county assessed value figures appeared high relative to condition and that property taxes are three years unpaid.

On 415 Laramie Street, staff said porches are caving in, roof and eaves are rotted, parts of the foundation are failing and the property has been unoccupied; Evergy (the local utility) had refused to restore power because of the electrical condition. City staff estimated roughly $21,532 in repairs needed to bring that property to code, and said neighbors and Evergy have reported concerns about animals and hazards on the site.

Commissioners made the motions to set show‑cause hearings for both addresses. On both items the roll was recorded with Commissioners Greenlee, Murphy and Vice Mayor Wilcox and Mary Young voting yes; Commissioner Slattery abstained on both resolutions. The commission did not order demolition at the meeting; setting the hearing begins the formal notice and evidence process.

Staff said notices would be sent to all interested parties once the hearing dates are set. Neighbors on the West side of 1034 Santa Fe had expressed worry about masonry pulling away from the house and possible damage to adjacent properties; staff said the city's aim in setting the hearings is to resolve long‑standing code and safety issues through the public hearing process.

The commission record shows the hearings will provide the property owner or representatives an opportunity to present plans, make repairs or appeal before the city moves to demolition and potential assessment of demolition costs to the property.