Council moves three dilapidated-structure resolutions to legal; properties described as vacant

The council advanced resolutions authorizing the removal or demolition of three dilapidated structures and sent the matter to the city attorney for review and placement on the consent agenda.

Code enforcement staff (identified in the meeting as Ms. Franco) described the three properties as vacant and in poor condition: 901 East Demi (owner deceased), 510 East South Percy Street (previously burned and with no permit contact), and 03 East Albuquerque (open to public access and attractant for dumping). Ms. Franco said certified notices had been sent but not signed for and that staff had not reached the owners.

Why it matters: Staff said the properties pose public-safety and nuisance risks if left unsecured; council action on resolutions is the next step toward abatement, lien placement and, if needed, demolition. Staff explained that if property owners later respond they could enter a payment plan or convey title to the city to avoid demolition expenses, and that tax liens and county tax-sale processes could apply if taxes are unpaid.

Key details and questions: Council members asked whether anyone occupied the properties; staff said they are vacant. Councilors asked how long demolition would take after council passage; staff said once council passes the resolution and it moves through city council, removal would occur as soon as administratively possible. Staff noted that ownership records indicate out-of-state owners in some cases and that certified notices have not been returned.

Actions: A motion to send the demolition resolutions to legal and to place them on the consent agenda passed. No demolition work was performed on the day of the meeting; staff said liens and tax-sale remedies remain available.

Ending: The council forwarded the resolutions to legal; staff will return with legal review and scheduling for abatement or demolition as permitted by local process.