Detroit Lakes orders cleanup for three long‑running nuisance properties, owners given until Oct. 12

Detroit Lakes — The city council approved resolutions declaring three properties public nuisances and authorizing abatement and assessment of costs after staff presented photographs and compliance histories.

Priscilla, the city's code compliance officer, described a long-running case at 2435 Long Lake Road (also referenced by the county address) with inoperable and unlicensed vehicles, trailers and piled items violating the exterior storage ordinance. She said staff had worked with property owner Doug Branchard over multiple years and recommended abatement if the owner did not comply by Oct. 12.

Priscilla made similar presentations for 215 Central Street East (owner Sheila Anderson) and 421 State Street East (owners Jerome and Lynn Hendricks), documenting household furnishings, appliances, construction materials, tires and campers stored in yards in violation of city code. In several cases inspectors noted rodent‑attracting materials and alleged unauthorized habitation of recreational vehicles.

Council members expressed concern for neighbors and support for moving to abatement after long periods of noncompliance. The CDC had recommended allowing owners until Oct. 12 to remedy the violations; if properties remain noncompliant the city will arrange abatement and assess costs as a service fee.

Council approved the resolutions for all three addresses by voice vote. Staff said they plan to obtain cost estimates for removal to provide owners notice before abatement would be scheduled.