Roswell approves demolition contract for five derelict structures at Lita Thompson Memorial Park and Bowen/Highway 92 site

The Roswell Mayor and Council committee unanimously authorized a demolition and abatement contract June 24 not to exceed $238,315 to remove five structurally compromised buildings at Lita Thompson Memorial Park and at the Bowen/Highway 92 property.

Why it matters: Recreation, Parks, Historic and Cultural Affairs staff said the buildings have substantial structural damage, vandalism, rodent infestation and hazardous-material concerns and are beyond repair. Removing the structures addresses public-safety, liability and park maintenance issues, staff said.

Details: Steven Malone, director of Recreation, Parks, Historic and Cultural Affairs, said the contract covers five structures: a damaged brick house and adjacent garage at the rear of Lita Thompson Memorial Park, a cabin near the pond, a “yellow house” facing Highway 92, a single-story ranch brick home on the Bowen/Highway 92 parcel, and a temporary trailer that is beyond repair. Malone said the contract amount includes a 10% contingency and that work would begin within 30 days of notice to proceed with an estimated five-week duration.

Funding: Malone said the demolition and abatement would be funded by insurance reimbursement and the park CIP maintenance fund; the city previously accepted insurance reimbursement related to storm damage from the prior hurricane event.

Action: Councilmember Gee Lee Hills moved approval; Councilmember Northland seconded. The committee approved the contract unanimously.

Next steps: Staff will proceed with permitting, contract issuance and demolition. Malone said the structures are vacant and abandoned, and staff inspect and secure them repeatedly because of break-ins and vandalism.

Context: Malone presented photographs of the damaged structures to illustrate the safety and nuisance concerns prompting the demolition request.