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Owner says he can repair 214 Brook Street; board orders demolition after finding code violations
Summary
At a San Antonio code hearing, owner Jens de la Garza and staff debated repairability of 214 Brook Street; staff cited fire damage and public-safety risks and the board ordered demolition (5–2).
The City of San Antonio Code Enforcement hearing on Feb. 18 considered whether 214 Brook Street can be rebuilt or must be demolished. Dangerous-structures staff presented photos and inspection findings showing extensive fire damage.
Cynthia Santana, a dangerous-structures officer with Development Services, recommended demolition under Chapter 6, Article 8, saying the structure is not habitable and poses a public-safety threat. Officer Richie Robledo told the board the location had repeated calls for service, evidence of fires and unauthorized persons entering the property.
Owner Jens de la Garza told the board he intends to renovate and said he has funds and contractors lined up: "tengo 60000 dólares ahí" and a contractor estimate of about $39,060. He described being prepared to hire electricians, plumbers and roofers and said he plans to move back into the house when repairs are complete.
City legal staff and code officers told the board that verbal claims are not sufficient: the owner must supply written documentation, including proof of funds, a full scope of work, permits and, if represented, a notarized power of attorney. Without that documentation, staff recommended a demolition order as allowed by city code.
The board voted 5–2 to declare 214 Brook Street a public nuisance and order demolition within 30 days. The decision includes provisions to secure the property and remove debris; staff said they will pursue city-initiated abatement if the owner does not comply.
The board’s action contrasts with the owner’s stated intent to repair; city staff emphasized the need for documentation and public-safety protections before any reprieve can be granted.
