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Council directs staff to investigate downtown building smell; fire marshal to be consulted
Summary
After public complaints about a foul odor and an eyesore at the former Jim’s Café building on Main Street, councilors asked city staff to work with the fire marshal and building official to inspect the property and report back.
City staff will investigate repeated complaints about odors and the condition of the former Jim’s Café building on Main Street after members of the public described a persistent smell and an exterior appearance they called an eyesore.
Nancy Imhof, a downtown business owner, told the council the building “smells really bad” when pedestrians walk by and asked whether the property had been inspected. Chelsea, a city staff member, said smell complaints alone can justify an inspection and that the fire marshal and building official would be involved if staff find a public‑health or structural concern. Chelsea told the council staff could pursue a repair‑or‑raze order if conditions warrant; she said a formal council motion was not required to begin an initial investigation.
Mayor Bridal asked staff to follow up and report back to the council. The council did not take formal enforcement action during the meeting; rather, members directed staff to coordinate inspections, consult the fire marshal and building official, and return with findings and any recommended actions.
The complaint follows repeated public comments about downtown building conditions. Council members said they want to work with property owners when possible but acknowledged inspections and enforcement may be necessary to protect public health and the city’s downtown appearance. Chelsea said the next step will be an on‑site inspection based on the complaints received; the council asked staff to provide a status update to the council once that work is complete.
