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Council narrowly approves $116,160 to demolish five homes after debate over one Hemlock Street property
Summary
After debate about process and distinct conditions at one property, Lynchburg City Council voted 4–3 to appropriate $116,160 from the general fund contingency to demolish five properties previously recommended by the Physical Development Committee.
Lynchburg City Council voted 4–3 on Feb. 18 to adopt a budget amendment appropriating $116,160 from the general fund contingency to fund demolition of five properties identified as public‑safety hazards.
Council discussion focused on one property at 1013 Hemlock Street. Some council members said that property’s visible condition and foundation failure warranted demolition; others said staff had not provided sufficient detail about the foundation condition and that the finance committee had removed $30,000 from the original appropriation to allow the owner time to respond.
Councilmember (substitute motion maker) moved to restore the original PDC allocation for all five homes and to appropriate the full $116,160. Supporters described at least one property as a fire and collapse hazard and noted processes to attempt to recoup demolition costs from owners. Opponents argued the city’s general fund reserve for contingency should not be used to fund an open‑ended program to demolish a large stock of properties without explicit budget authorization.
The substitute motion passed 4–3. Council members who voted in the majority argued the selected properties posed imminent safety risks; those who voted no cited procedural and precedent concerns and asked for clearer documentation on foundation problems and the outreach to property owners.
Staff and council said they would follow the city’s established process to attempt to recoup costs from property owners where possible, and staff indicated further information on individual properties — including photographs and condition reports — is available in the meeting packet.
