Council weighs faster demolition, insurance engagement after surge in burned-out houses

Council members told the March 24 meeting they are increasingly concerned about burned-out houses, squatting, and the blight those structures create across Jackson.

Councilman Foote and others said many burned structures remain standing for years, blighting neighborhoods and endangering residents. Members reported an unusually high number of fires in the first part of the year and urged the city to find ways to expedite demolition of irreparable structures. The city attorney said municipal approaches could include fast-track orders to remove unsafe buildings and that mortgage-company contractual provisions could help in some cases; he also said state legislation would be the most helpful tool to require how insurance proceeds are handled.

Fire and code officials told council the problem is partly driven by squatters returning to burned structures and by mental-health issues; the fire department agreed to provide a monthly list of burn-damaged structures to code enforcement. The administration said it is working on upstream measures and that an example exists where insurance paid and a structure was removed within 30 days. Council members requested a full inventory of burn-damaged properties to quantify the problem and to guide action.

Council also discussed whether trespassing laws and cooperation with state or Capitol police could improve enforcement at squat-occupied properties that are owned by the state. Members asked the city attorney to report back on squatting statutes and enforcement options.

Council directed staff (planning and development, fire, and code enforcement) to produce a detailed inventory and to return with legal options — including possible ordinance language and administrative pathways to speed demolition where structures are irreparable.