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Owner says contributing building at 1525 Lenox is unsafe; proposes demolition and replacement after prolonged code issues
Summary
The board heard an update on 1525 Lenox Avenue, a contributing post‑war modern building in Flamingo Park that the new owner says is unsafe after years of code violations; the owner intends to demolish and rebuild, and the board urged thorough documentation and staff coordination prior to any demolition.
The Historic Preservation Board on March 14 received a status update on 1525 Lenox Avenue, a contributing post‑war modern property in the Flamingo Park Historic District that has been the subject of repeated building violations and Miami‑Dade County unsafe‑structure orders.
City counsel Stephen (City Attorney's Office) summarized the property’s troubled history, including prior foreclosure, permitting gaps associated with a condominium conversion and multiple unsafe‑structure findings that led to vacancies, water intrusion and interior work performed without permits. Steve said the city’s Unsafe Structures process and code enforcement have been involved and that all six condominium units on the site have now been acquired by a single owner who intends to address the building’s condition.
Owner Eli Dadon said the building has structural problems, recent roof removal over a unit that allowed water intrusion into the unit below, and other hazards; he said he had the property fully boarded and sealed to prevent trespass. Dadon told the board he intends to demolish the existing structure and rebuild six townhouse units with parking beneath; he said the proposed new design would reflect the existing building’s general massing and requested to discuss options with the board moving forward.
Debbie (planning staff) reminded members that when demolition occurs under the city’s unsafe‑structures process, the owner must apply to this board after demolition for review of replacement construction. Staff recommended documenting the existing building thoroughly and said the board may make recommendations to the building official before any demolition order is issued.
Board members asked about structural reports and documentation; staff and the owner said engineering evaluations show the building is not safe for occupancy. Members recommended documenting the building with measured drawings and photographs before work and suggested the owner coordinate with staff on possible salvage and recordation of significant elements (the owner said most notable features were the large corner windows). The matter was informational; no board vote was required.
