Lewisburg council directs county inspector to survey unsafe dwelling after police call

Lewisburg — Town staff reported multiple health and safety hazards at a privately owned dwelling on Mineral Springs Road and the Town Council authorized a full inspection with the Franklin County building inspector.

Mr. Satterpike summarized a September preliminary investigation after police responded to an incident at the address and said he documented numerous violations of the town’s minimum housing code, including mold, exposed electrical wiring, failing plumbing and structural decay. He said pictures in the council packet show 'mold coming from the ceiling' and, in one bedroom, 'the roof is caving in.'

Satterpike said the owner initially denied him entry and that Chief Lincoln accompanied staff to gain lawful access before the preliminary inspection. He asked that the council direct staff to proceed with a full survey alongside the county inspector so the county—whose inspector is certified in North Carolina code—could issue an official determination. Under the town’s ordinance, that process could lead to an order to repair or to condemnation; Satterpike said occupants would be required to vacate if condemnation is ordered.

Council members questioned whether children lived at the property (staff said no), whether there was heat in the home (staff did not know for certain), and the timing of an inspection given cold weather. Mayor Neal moved, and council seconded, to authorize staff and the county building inspector to perform the inspection approximately seven days after council approval; the motion passed by voice vote. The council also instructed staff to balance public‑safety concerns with the potential hardship of displacing occupants during cold weather.

Staff noted the property also had a narcotics‑related law enforcement history; Mr. Satterpike said that factored into concerns about repeated problematic use of the address. The county building inspector will file any official report that determines whether repairs are feasible or whether the structure must be condemned and demolished under town procedures.