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Commission reviews vacant historic properties, cites Disher/Tower House concerns
Summary
Commissioners reviewed ongoing concerns about long-vacant historic properties, citing the Disher/Tower House as an example of deterioration, lack of utilities and owner reluctance to sell. The commission discussed enforcement tools, outreach and potential acquisition as options to preserve resources.
Commissioners devoted part of the July 10 meeting to long-vacant historic properties and enforcement options. The Disher/Tower House on 20th Street was discussed in detail as an example of a property that has been unoccupied, lacks heat and utilities, and has suffered exterior deterioration.
Staff reported repeated outreach to the owner, offers from potential buyers (one cited offer of $75,000) and structural concerns including a failing retaining wall on the river side of the property. Commissioners said vacant structures face accelerated deterioration when no one is occupying or maintaining them and that municipal tools — including vacant-property ordinances, rental-inspection follow-up and collaboration with the building commissioner — are ways to preserve historic buildings.
Commission members said they prefer voluntary solutions where possible but acknowledged enforcement or acquisition may be necessary when owners cannot or will not stabilize properties. Staff said options include pursuing enforcement under the city's vacant-property rules, continuing outreach to encourage sale or rehabilitation, and exploring whether the city or preservation partners can assist with stabilization work.
No formal enforcement action was initiated at the meeting; staff and commissioners will follow up with building-inspection personnel and the owner to seek a path toward stabilization or transfer.
