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Officials press for demolition of rundown buildings as waterfront redevelopment plans advance
Summary
County and town leaders said more funds are needed to tear down abandoned houses and commercial buildings, discussed estimated demolition costs, and tied cleanup to a Harbor Town Vision and an expected $10 million waterfront grant application by Rep. Goodwin.
Commissioner John C. Spruill told the boards the county has limited funds to remove abandoned structures and urged more action to clean up properties, especially along Highway 64. Plymouth Councilwoman Deborah Spencer and Councilman John Tharps, Sr. described multiple rundown buildings in town that require attention.
Mayor Brian Roth outlined redevelopment activity tied to a Harbor Town Vision: he said Representative Goodwin has applied for $10 million in waterfront improvements for the towns involved and that roughly $2 million is expected to address the police parking lot and the old firehouse. Roth also said local investor Lou Manring purchased a block by Bear Towne Market and plans to refurbish three buildings for businesses; the former gashouse will be demolished and rebuilt.
Participants discussed demolition cost estimates — Mayor Roth and others cited figures of about $3,000–$5,000 to tear down a house and $10,000–$20,000 for larger buildings — and emphasized the need for consistent funding rather than one-off projects. County Manager Curtis Potter noted resources exist to help with heir-property issues and suggested addressing estate/will matters as part of long-term solutions.
No demolition-specific appropriation was approved at the meeting; officials asked staff to investigate funding sources and to coordinate on cleanup as part of broader redevelopment efforts.
