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Council authorizes start of nuisance-abatement process for property at 949 Highway 81 South
Summary
Following years of complaints and unsuccessful enforcement attempts, the council voted to begin a statutory nuisance-abatement process for a long-neglected property; staff said the cost of abatement becomes a lien on the land if the city proceeds.
The Walnut Grove City Council voted to initiate a nuisance-abatement process for a property at 949 Highway 81 South after staff described repeated enforcement attempts and ongoing public complaints.
A city attorney explained the process is authorized by state law and proceeds through the municipal court: the city must give notice, hold a hearing, and give the owner an opportunity to abate. If the owner does not comply, the city may contract to correct the nuisance, and incurred costs are attached as a lien against the property, the attorney said.
Staff showed recent photographs and told the council the matter has persisted for more than eight years and that citations and other outreach had not resolved the issues. Council members asked about health and safety concerns. The attorney said that when hazardous materials or conditions are suspected, the city will use outside, qualified contractors rather than city workers.
Councilmembers moved and seconded a resolution to begin the statutory process for the specific property; the council recorded the motion to begin enforcement. Staff said the next steps will include a formal inspection, court filing, and service of notice to the property owner; the city will make decisions about the scope of work after the court hearing.
The council did not specify a demolition or interior-abatement order; the staff said orders will follow the municipal-court process and depend on the judge’s direction.
