East Ridge housing commission closes three code cases, delays action on hazardous Forest Green house

The East Ridge Housing Commission on Feb. 11 closed three long-running code-enforcement files and ordered additional safeguards for a fourth property slated for sale.

Chairperson Amanda Davis opened the meeting and, after routine business and roll call, the commission approved January minutes and moved through several old-business property reviews. The commission voted to close the files for 3606 Myra Avenue, 6101 Marietta Street and 4107 Ely Road after staff and property representatives reported remediation or imminent remediation.

At 3606 Myra Avenue, an occupant and inspection staff reported multiple pest-control visits and extensive personal cleanup, including removal of debris and cleared access. "They're gonna help me move out my refrigerator and stuff like that," one resident said while describing ongoing cleanup efforts. Staff confirmed egress and interior access were restored and moved to close the file; the commission voted to close the case but the chair cautioned that closure does not prevent reopening if conditions recur.

At 6101 Marietta Street, owners said demolition of a storm-damaged structure began the day before and should be completed within 24–48 hours, with plans to rebuild; an owner said an insurance adjuster recommended teardown and rebuild after insurer review. The commission accepted the update and closed the file.

The 4107 Ely Road matter was reported by staff as corrected and compliant; the commission voted to close that file as well.

The most substantial new-business discussion concerned 1200 Forest Green Drive. Staff described the house as "extremely unsanitary and unfit for human habitation," citing animal waste, trash throughout the structure and a major water leak that caused ceiling collapse. Inspector Tori told the commission police had responded Jan. 31 and that the property was not occupied at the time of the inspection. The owners, Betty Darlene Hill and Jerry Hill, said they are under contract with a buyer and that the buyer intends to purchase the property "as is." "They're buying the property as is," Betty Hill said.

Commissioners debated options that would allow cleanup while protecting public safety and the owners' ability to complete a sale. Rather than posting a condemnation order immediately, the commission adopted a motion to continue the case to the March meeting with three conditions: the property must be secured (locked and kept secured), there is to be no overnight habitation, and the owners must provide contact information for the prospective buyer so the buyer can appear in March to demonstrate plans for remediation. The motion passed unanimously.

Chairperson Davis stressed that if a closing fails or the buyer does not take possession, the case will remain before the commission in March regardless of the owner. The meeting closed after a brief note about a local incident on Bennett Road; no members of the public offered comments during the public-comment period.

The commission’s next scheduled meeting is in March; the 1200 Forest Green Drive matter is set to return with buyer contact information and any progress on structural repairs and cleanup.