Lorain Demolition Board continues most stays, removes two properties from demo list

The City of Lorain Demolition Board of Appeals met Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024, and took action on a slate of property stay and demolition cases, continuing most rehabilitation stays, removing two properties from the demolition list and returning one absent owner—s property to the list.

The board voted to remove 512 West 24th and 123 West 31st from the city—s demolition list after staff verified that required permits and inspections had been completed. At 512 West 24th, owner Daniel Nett told the board he had closed out permits, completed exterior work and passed final inspections; the board voted to remove the property from the demolition list. At 123 West 31st, owner Christian McAfee said all inspections were complete; the building official confirmed verification and the board removed the property from the list.

Several applicants asked for more time to finish work. At 617 West May 5th Street, representative Jonathan Lake said he purchased the house at sheriff—s sale and has cleaned and repaired interiors but needs inspections and updated photos; staff noted a roof permit had no inspection records and asked for reinspections. The board continued that stay to allow the owner to complete inspections and submit updated documentation.

Case 3222 Eagle Avenue (owner listed as Terry Virgilla) was tabled after staff reported the property title remained in the owner—s deceased mother—s name and requested a power of attorney or probate documentation verifying authority to act; the board tabled the application until ownership is clarified.

At 958 Washington Ave., no representative appeared. Board members noted multiple prior no-shows and voted to deny continuation of the stay and return the property to the demolition list; staff explained the owner may appeal or reapply if he chooses.

Health and safety compliance emerged repeatedly in the meeting. For 760 Elbon Ave., the applicant was advised to replace residential appliances with commercial-grade equipment and submit plans to the Lorain health department (a plan-review process staff said is subject to a 30-day review period). Board members repeatedly emphasized that when applicants report completion, staff must inspect and close permits before a property is removed from the demolition list.

Chair (unidentified) opened and closed the meeting and thanked staff for detailed minutes. Most votes were carried by voice; motions to continue or to remove properties were moved by board members and seconded during the session. Where applicants were not present, the board followed published procedures to deny stays or return properties to the demolition list. The board adjourned after asking staff to follow up with owners and to schedule site visits or inspections where necessary.

What happens next: Properties removed from the list are no longer under immediate demolition order, subject to follow-up verification and any occupancy permits. Properties continued or tabled must return with updated photos, completed inspections and, where required, documentation of legal authority to act. Owners denied continuation may appeal or reapply according to board procedures.