Magistrate finds single-wide mobile home at 6309 Commander Lane unfit; hearing continued for compliance

A Bay County magistrate found a single-wide mobile home at 6309 Commander Lane in Youngstown to be unfit and unsafe and continued the matter to a compliance hearing on June 18, 2025, after code enforcement testimony that the structure is partially collapsed and hazardous.

Inspector Ray Scott (code enforcement) and Building Inspector Scott Thorpe described a structure with major wall deflection, ceiling collapse and interior bracing placed to prevent entry. Scott testified that he observed the property Sept. 3, 2024, and that Thorpe conducted the building inspection on Sept. 9; both introduced photographs into evidence and said the dwelling was placarded as unfit and unsafe.

Magistrate-supplied findings state the property is subject to Bay County Code Chapter 17 and that notice was given to the respondent, who appeared by telephone. The magistrate ordered the respondent to apply for and obtain a demolition permit to remove the structure and any prohibited accessory structures or to submit repair plans. The magistrate noted the respondent is not the record owner of the mobile home and therefore may be unable to obtain certain permits; staff will notify the titled owner and take further action if the respondent fails to comply.

Respondent Norman Melvin told the hearing he is trying to get the trailer removed from his property, that he originally believed it belonged to his late sister, and said he had already tried to have others remove the unit. Melvin said he is concerned about storm season and the risk to a nearby power pole that serves his well if the trailer collapses.

The magistrate set a compliance hearing for June 18, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., and ordered the respondent to contact code enforcement with progress or delays. The magistrate also said that if noncompliance continues, staff will seek authorization to abate the nuisance and recover costs.