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Board orders demolition at 514 Alta Cita; family asks for time to secure title and repairs
Summary
The board declared 514 Alta Cita a public nuisance and ordered demolition within 30 days, while family members requested extra time and presented a contractor estimate to repair the house. The board approved demolition with an amendment to keep the property vacant and utilities disconnected.
The Board of Construction Standards found the single-family property at 514 Alta Cita in violation of municipal code and voted to order demolition within 30 days, with the property to remain vacant, utilities disconnected and secured in the interim.
Kerr Kurstle Town, an official with the city’s dangerous‑premises unit, presented inspection photos showing extensive exterior and foundation deterioration, water damage, unpermitted rear additions and interior hazards. Staff reported the property lacked water and electric service and that no repair permits, financial statements or scope-of-work documents had been submitted by the owner.
Anthony Peña, a police officer who responded repeatedly to the address, told the board his unit had logged more than 25 calls since March 2024 involving narcotics, arrests and other criminal activity stemming from the house. Peña said officers found occupants with outstanding warrants and that the property has repeatedly drawn calls for service.
Family members appeared to request more time. Mary Luz Guzmán, identifying herself as a sibling of the deceased prior owner, said she and other relatives live in the Dallas–Fort Worth area and only recently learned of the city’s enforcement action. Robert Guzmán, who said he is a contractor, estimated repairs could cost “20,000 to 30,000 dollars” and offered to bring his crew to perform much of the work.
Board members discussed the complicated title history presented at the hearing and staff told the board some tax‑record transfers predate the family’s knowledge. Legal staff noted that construction permits and permits issuance require an appropriate property interest and that title issues could delay repairs.
After discussion the board moved to declare the property a public nuisance and ordered demolition within 30 days; the motion included an amendment that utilities remain disconnected and that the property remain vacant. The motion passed 8–0.
City staff advised family members the decision can be appealed and that the standard administrative procedures and timelines apply if the family provides proof of legal ownership and a viable repair plan.
