City seeks asbestos testing, possible demolition after finding limited progress at 315 E. Dunkerton Rd.

City staff told the Cedar Falls City Council on Sept. 15 that progress cleaning a property at 315 East Dunkerton Road has been insufficient and that the city will pursue asbestos testing and, if necessary, demolition proposals.

"On August 4, the council declared the properties and buildings at 315 East Dunkerton Road a nuisance," Director Sheets said. He said the adopted abatement schedule gave the owner 30 days to clean the interior and 30 days after that to address accessory structures. An inspection on Sept. 4 by the building official and fire chief found only two of eight primary areas improved, which Sheets said "is not sufficient to meet the abatement requirement."

Sheets said the condemnation committee reviewed staff's recommendation on Sept. 10 and concluded the hazards and insanitary conditions remain. "Staff will continue with the nuisance abatement process by seeking asbestos testing, proposals and moving forward with that," he said. If asbestos is found, the city would return to council to review a contract to remove asbestos and then seek demolition proposals and, if necessary, a contract for demolition.

Sheets also noted the exterior debris was addressed separately and that the owner has been notified to clean exterior debris within 30 days or the city will use its normal cleanup procedures.

The building official met with the owner on Sept. 12 to explain the timeline, Sheets said. Council members offered brief remarks expressing hope for a good outcome for the resident and neighbors but had no clarifying questions at the time.

Next steps: staff will pursue asbestos testing and solicit proposals; if testing confirms asbestos, the city will return to council with contract options for abatement and potential demolition.