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Westminster council seeks larger demolition fund as staff pursues liens; depot interior and privately owned school property draw attention
Summary
Council reviewed limited demolition funding in the current budget (about $8,700) and a proposal to raise the fund to $50,000; staff said liens against properties the city demolished may return funds, and members urged repairs at the depot and follow-up with a private owner who bought a former church/school property.
Council members pressed staff for options to accelerate removal of unsafe buildings and to preserve downtown assets such as the depot.
Mayor (S2) said the budget currently includes roughly $8,700 for dilapidated-structure removal and proposed increasing that to $50,000 to make meaningful progress: “I'd like to at least try to get $50,000 in that fund for dilapidated,” S2 said. Staff (S3) explained the city frequently places a lien for demolition costs that is recorded against the property and reported one owner has contacted the city to pay off a lien, which could become seed money for future demolitions.
Council member (S1) urged attention to the depot interior and volunteer-led beautification. “I believe we need it painted on the inside,” S1 said, offering volunteer support for wreaths, flags and seasonal recognition. Staff noted the depot is a special meeting place and said some repairs and aesthetic projects could be staged with partial volunteer support.
Council also discussed the privately owned former college church/school property. Staff recounted earlier city interest in buying and demolishing the site but said acquisition and demolition costs were estimated at more than $250,000; Mayor (S2) said developer David Brown has purchased the property and has plans for a travel-ball training facility, and staff will follow up on safety and use issues.
