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Council authorizes city attorney to pursue demolition of unsafe house at 121 South Elm
Summary
Council voted 5–0 to authorize the city attorney to begin demolition proceedings for 121 South Elm after staff described extensive structural failures and hoarding; staff said 121 Peoria has a new owner pursuing repairs, so no action will be taken there.
City staff told the Washington City Council that 121 South Elm is in a condition likely beyond repair and requested direction to pursue demolition through the city attorney. Joe (city staff) described foundation failure, extensive rot, a catastrophic roof collapse and a hoarding environment, and said the property posed life-safety concerns if occupied.
"Miss Benson, who owns the property, is not in good health," Joe said, and the building currently has no occupants. Staff recommended initiating an order of demolition; the council asked for a motion to authorize the city attorney to begin that process.
Alderperson McIntyre moved to authorize the city attorney to pursue demolition action, and Alderperson Blundy seconded. The council approved the motion by voice vote, 5–0.
Staff also reported that 121 Peoria had been sold to a new owner, Gary Smith, who has applied for permits and completed an electrical inspection; staff said they will allow the renovation to proceed and will not pursue further enforcement at this time unless progress stalls.
The council's action authorizes the city attorney to begin legal proceedings to obtain demolition authority if repair or sale opportunities do not resolve the safety concerns; staff said they will continue to work with the homeowner if a sale that results in rehabilitation materializes.
