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Red Bank notifies owners of four properties entering condemnation process; hearings to be scheduled
Summary
Building official Eddie Clinton told the commission four residential properties are entering quasi‑judicial condemnation proceedings and will be scheduled as separate hearings; staff described notice procedures, demolition options for owners, the 50% rehabilitation standard, expected hearing lengths and likely timelines.
Building official Eddie Clinton briefed the commission that four residential properties cited in the work session packet are moving into formal condemnation proceedings. The addresses read into the record were (as listed in the packet): '1, 6 Team Ormond Drive', 108 Freudenberg Lane, 114 Freudenberg Lane and 3601 Redding Road.
Clinton said the commission will act collectively as the decision maker during stand‑alone quasi‑judicial hearings. He emphasized the city does not take ownership by condemnation; rather, it may perform demolition or abatement when rehabilitation is infeasible and recover costs through liens and sale if necessary.
Commissioners asked whether owner demolition prior to a hearing would cancel the proceeding; staff replied demolition and proper debris disposal by the owner will generally remove the need for a hearing. Staff explained the evidentiary standard commonly applied: an engineer or licensed contractor must opine that rehabilitation would exceed 50% of the structure’s current improvement value — a high threshold meant to ensure due process. Clinton and legal staff said a contested hearing can take 45–60 minutes or longer; uncontested matters typically take about 30 minutes.
Staff said they will conduct file reviews, serve certified mail and attempt hand delivery of notices, and aim to set hearings at least 30 days after notices are issued. Clinton noted one owner had pulled a demolition permit and may elect to act; other properties have been long‑neglected and may require city action. Neighbors have already engaged with staff on at least one property and staff will post signs 21 days before scheduled hearings.
No formal action was requested at the work session; staff will schedule the four hearings and return with formal agendas for the commission to hear each case.
