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Washington council adopts demolition orders for three West 3rd/7th Street houses
Summary
The Washington City Council voted unanimously Oct. 14 to adopt ordinances ordering demolition and removal of dwellings at 847 West 3rd Street, 302 West 7th Street, and 231 West 7th Street after staff determined repairs would exceed 50% of structure value and prior correction orders expired.
The Washington City Council on Oct. 14 adopted ordinances requiring demolition and removal of three residential structures found to be unsafe or not maintained: 847 West 3rd Street, 302 West 7th Street and 231 West 7th Street.
City staff described the legal process under North Carolina General Statutes for addressing structures that fail to meet minimum maintenance, sanitation and safety standards. Council was told that when estimated repair costs exceed 50% of a structure’s value and prior orders to correct have expired, the Code Official may issue an order requiring demolition and removal. The City Attorney noted owners are typically given 45 days to show progress, obtain permits or make repairs before final action.
The items carried supporting timeline information in the agenda packet. For 302 West 7th Street the packet lists a complaint/inspection date of Aug. 2, 2023, a hearing and order-to-correct in September/October 2023 and notices published in December 2023 and October 2024. For 231 West 7th Street staff said photos in the packet were taken Oct. 9, 2024.
At the meeting, Brandy Sparrow said the structure at 231 West 7th Street had been painted and junk cars removed and that she "thought they had more time" to make repairs. The City Attorney noted Council had discretion to grant additional time but did not do so before adopting the ordinance. Each demolition motion was moved and seconded by councilmembers and recorded as approved unanimously.
What happens next: the demolition orders take effect as adopted; the minutes state owners are typically given 45 days to make progress or obtain permits where applicable. Implementation, including removal and associated costs or lien procedures, will follow the city’s existing code-enforcement practices.
