The San Antonio Code Compliance Board voted unanimously on Nov. 6, 2025 to order demolition and securing of 208 Porter Street, finding the house and an accessory structure pose a danger to public safety.
Carmen Panky of Development Services told the board the property had a July 11, 2024 fire, first inspection in July 2024, and multiple follow-up actions. Staff presented photographs showing collapsed roof sections, interior fire damage, missing floor sheathing and exposed framing. Panky said utility meters had been removed and that the property is not eligible for historic designation.
Board members pressed staff about a long interval between the first inspection and the pre-hearing conference. Staff acknowledged personnel changes slowed follow-up and said the office had contacted a niece who identified herself as an heir. Legal staff clarified procedures for contacting next of kin when an owner is deceased.
After discussion, the board moved to demolish and secure both the main and accessory structures, removing debris and ensuring no active utilities remain; the motion passed 5–0. Staff reported the city had invested $1,338 to enforce conditions on the property to date and will follow standard procedures to recover costs if possible.
The board cited multiple code subsections under Article 8, Chapter 6 in its motion. The owner on file was listed as deceased; staff worked with a niece who had phone contact but did not appear at the hearing.