Lewiston council finds 102 Pierce Street a dangerous building and adopts corrective order

The Lewiston City Council adopted findings of fact, conclusions of law and an order determining that the structure at 102 Pierce Street is a dangerous building and poses a serious threat to public health and safety. Planning and Code Enforcement Director John Connor presented exhibit photos and inspection findings showing exposed and damaged wiring, ruptured pipes, missing fire barriers, open cavities consistent with balloon-frame construction and evidence of electrical fires; the property had been vacant following a prior condemnation and subsequent demolition work had aggravated hazards.

Connor told the council that the building owner, Multivision Investments LLC, and the lender (Katahdin Trust Company) requested a stay of demolition until Dec. 16; staff said they were amenable to a limited stay provided the structure is secured. Inspectors described how open wiring and missing doors and walls remove compartmentalization and allow fire to spread rapidly through stairwells and cavities. Council members asked about the possibility of disconnecting power at the utility level; staff said CMP (Central Maine Power) would need to be contacted and that a council finding of a dangerous building would strengthen the city's request to the utility.

Councilors moved to adopt the department—s proposed order specifying corrective actions, timeframes and authorization for the city administrator to secure the property and recover costs if the owner fails to act. The motion passed by roll call vote 7-0. Councilors indicated they expect administration to prioritize securing utilities and boarding and to report back at the next meeting if the owner does not comply.