Jefferson County Commission declares structure at 4395 Gucci Road a public nuisance, starts demolition process

The Jefferson County Commission voted on April 9 to declare the structure at 4395 Gucci Road (35022) a public nuisance and authorized the property for inclusion in the county's demolitions program.

Eric Mcadorey, who identified himself as having an interest in the property and gave an address in Bessemer, told the commission the house has been in his family for decades and argued the hearing should be held in the Bessemer Cutoff so local property owners could participate. He said he had used the structure for storage, that vandalism and damage escalated in recent years, and that legal matters with other claimants remain unresolved.

County staff and the county attorney said they followed statutory notice procedures, presented inspection photos and recommended the property be declared a public nuisance. County inspector Josh explained the interior and exterior were compromised and that bringing the structure up to code would cost more than its value, describing it as structurally unsound and uninhabitable.

During questioning, commissioners emphasized the perspectives of neighbors and the negative effect of derelict properties on surrounding property values. Staff clarified that the declaration itself does not immediately trigger demolition; separate resolutions, notices and administrative steps are required before the county removes a structure and places a lien. The owner said he could tear the structure down himself if given time and asked for a delay; commissioners said a delay could be considered if he provided a definitive cleanup timetable.

A motion to declare the structure a public nuisance was moved and seconded and carried by the commission. The public hearing was closed and staff will follow the county's demolition program procedures and notification requirements before any demolition takes place.