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Austin BSC unanimously adopts demolition or repair orders for three properties; denies appeal in separate case
Summary
At its Jan. 8 meeting, the Building and Standards Commission adopted staff orders (each by unanimous vote) for properties at 1704 Merriam, 2020 Goodrich and 4612 Turnstone and denied an appeal for 5309 Martin Avenue; each order includes a 45‑day compliance timeline and authorization for city action if not corrected.
The Building and Standards Commission on Jan. 8 voted unanimously to adopt staff orders requiring demolition or repair for three unoccupied Austin properties and denied an appeal of a notice of violation in a separate case.
1704 Merriam Avenue (CL2025148499): Inspector Michael Larner told the commission the single‑story residence shows a buckled roof, unstable structure and rotted fascia; a demolition application was in plan review. Staff recommended an order requiring permits and demolition of unsafe portions; the commission admitted exhibits and adopted the order unanimously. The record notes the city may proceed with demolition and record a lien for expenses if the owner does not comply.
2020 Goodrich Avenue (CL202514500818): Investigator Farrah Presley presented conditions including severe structural deterioration, illegal dumping, repeated board-and-secure actions and fire risk; staff estimated cleanup costs and recommended demolition. A neighbor spoke in favor. The commission admitted exhibits and adopted the recommended demolition order, including the same 45‑day compliance window and authorization for city action thereafter.
4612 Turnstone Drive (CL2025-105080): Inspector Ben Munoz presented extensive fire damage and interior structural charring that make the house dangerous and uninhabitable. Staff asked the commission to authorize demolition if the owner fails to obtain permits and remove debris; the commission adopted the recommended order unanimously.
Appeal—5309 Martin Avenue (CB2025-150773): Investigator Courtney Britt presented 13 property‑maintenance violations and evidence that the vacant residence was unsecured and unsanitary. Appellant Tracy Chapman, an heir handling probate, asked for more time and said he had begun cleanup efforts and paid taxes. Counsel clarified that the commission’s role at this hearing was narrow — to determine standing and whether violations existed at inspection. The commission found the appellant had standing but denied the appeal (7–0); commissioners encouraged staff to work with the appellant on next steps.
Vote tallies: all contested orders and the appeal decision were recorded as unanimous in favor of staff recommendations (7–0). The orders establish a 45‑day compliance timeline from mailing; if the owner does not comply the city may demolish and record expenses against the property with interest.
