Commissioners table demolition ordinance for derelict structure at 119 Chapel Hill Drive to seek alternatives

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners voted to table action on an ordinance requested by the county code enforcement officer that would authorize removal or demolition of a derelict structure at 119 Chapel Hill Drive.

County Manager Frank Mace summarized the code‑enforcement process leading to the request: a complaint, inspection, notice and an order requiring the owner to remedy or demolish the structure; the owner was given an opportunity to respond at a hearing and, according to Mace, did participate virtually. Mace told the board the property remains in disrepair and staff was asking the board to authorize demolition and pursue collection of removal costs via a lien if necessary.

Several commissioners urged caution. One commissioner said the Carolina Forest Homeowners Association and its board should be allowed to pursue remedies through the HOA process rather than the county imposing a lien, noting concern about adding a financial penalty to a property owner already facing hardship. That commissioner suggested fire departments might assist with removal or that the HOA could foreclose under its rules.

Another commissioner argued the county has a responsibility to act when a structure is derelict and unsafe, noting the county is the entity with legal authority to order removal after due process. Board members discussed options including denial, approval, and tabling to allow staff to contact the homeowner, HOA and local fire departments to seek lower‑cost alternatives.

A motion to deny the demolition ordinance was made but later withdrawn; the board ultimately voted to table the matter and direct staff to reach out to the property owner, Carolina Forest Homeowners Association and interested fire departments to explore alternatives, including a possible training burn or other assistance, and to report back to the board.