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Board approves demolition certificate for 413 Jerome Street under city program
Summary
The board approved a certificate allowing demolition of the long-vacant house at 413 Jerome Street through the city’s demolition program; staff described voluntary and involuntary tracks and several neighbors spoke in support citing blight and pest concerns.
The Florence City Design Review Board approved a certificate of appropriateness authorizing demolition of the house at 413 Jerome Street (Florence County tax map number 90075-02-006) in the D-4 Timrod Park Overlay District, following staff and public comments about vacancy, neighborhood blight and safety risks.
Staff told the board the parcel owner requested demolition through the city’s demolition program (a voluntary application in this case) and that the owners of both 411 and 413 had been involved; staff said 411 currently has no building while 413 has been vacant for years and appeared in “shabby shape” with overgrowth. Staff reiterated the city demolition program has a matrix for eligibility (condition of homes, crime/activity, neighborhood impact) and includes both voluntary (owner-requested, sometimes with financial assistance) and involuntary (city-initiated for unresponsive owners) tracks.
Multiple neighbors spoke in favor of demolition. Joey Stewart, a new resident, said the abandoned homes on Jerome have affected property values and raised pest concerns after a rat entered his home; Joe Bailey said the adjoining property has overhanging trees that create hazards. Another nearby property owner thanked the board for pursuing demolition, citing theft and dangerous conditions from neglect.
After public comment the board voted to approve the COA and staff will proceed with the applicant’s voluntary demolition process.
