Abilene Board of Building Standards orders repairs or demolition for six dilapidated properties

ABILENE, Texas — The Abilene Board of Building Standards on April 2 reviewed six property cases and voted to require repairs for three properties and demolition for three others, with owners given 30 days to appeal to district court.

The board, during a meeting in the city auditorium, heard staff reports from Ricky Wright, property maintenance inspector for the City of Abilene, who summarized each property's history of code enforcement and staff recommendations. "Today, we're gonna have 6 cases presenting to you," Wright said as he opened the agenda items.

The board approved staff recommendations across all six cases. For three properties the board ordered owners to submit a plan of action within 30 days and obtain permits, allowing 60 days for rough-in inspections and completion by the expiration of permits. For three other properties the board found repair unreasonable and ordered demolition unless the owner demolishes or files an appeal in district court within 30 days.

Why it matters: the board enforces local building and nuisance codes meant to protect public health, safety and welfare. The cases included fire-damaged homes, structures rendered vacant and unsecured for years, and at least one building damaged by vehicle impact. Several properties have been under active enforcement for years, and the board's orders can lead to city-led demolition if owners do not comply.

Most significant actions and details

Votes at a…