Planning commission orders reinspections, possible fines for several ‘unsafe’ properties

The Cass County Planning Commission reviewed a series of unsafe-property complaints and ordered reinspections, assessed possible fines and gave owners deadlines to obtain permits or complete cleanups.

Inspectors presented case-by-case findings and recommendations. For a property on 210 Bill Street, staff said trash and a truck full of refuse had drawn complaints; inspectors recommended another assessment and estimates for cleanup to be reported at the next meeting. For 4004 North Royal Center Pike, owner Luke Rusk told the board he had removed freezers and other debris but asked for clarity about roof repairs; staff and commissioners agreed to hold enforcement to required roof work and give him until June to complete repairs and permits.

Other properties receiving continued review included 1637 East 975 North (demo-permit not obtained), 1451 West 350 South (porch repairs and vehicles), and sites on South County Road 600 East where owners reported negotiations about selling or potential solar/battery proposals. In each instance the commission typically approved a 60-day extension for permit acquisition or cleanup and set reinspections for late May or early June.

The commission also addressed an RV/motorhome that had been tagged for removal; staff said they would seek towing estimates (Martin Towing was mentioned as a potential vendor) and proceed if a tow company is identified. Commissioners noted they do not typically recover storage costs from the state.

The commission closed the unsafe property docket and moved to the scheduled public hearings.