Council reviews nuisance-property cleanup; controlled burn cleared by state with conditions

Council members on Nov. 24 reviewed abatement progress on several nuisance properties and discussed next steps for cleanup and a planned controlled burn.

Mayor Charlie Hatfield reported that property owner Ed Raper has removed equipment from behind collapsed buildings at 522/526 G Street, clearing an alleyway. InLine Construction remains about two weeks from being onsite to remove remaining debris, according to emailed contractor correspondence reviewed by the council.

For 1145 G Street (Percival-Lewis), Clerk Tamela S. Curtis said the State has cleared paperwork to allow the Pawnee City Volunteer Fire Department to conduct a controlled training burn, but the State Fire Marshal requires removal of fixtures (sinks, toilets, bathtubs, furnace and hot-water heater) before the structure is pushed in and burned. The State will provide a one-week leeway window around the chosen date. Fire Chief Smith offered city resources and volunteers to remove and document the required fixtures; council members discussed whether the City can authorize removal of trees on the property or whether the property owner (Janice) must give direct permission before city or volunteer crews remove them.

Council directed staff to continue coordinating with property owners, the fire department and the City Attorney as needed to ensure abatement and the controlled burn comply with state requirements and that all required proof (photographs) is collected before the burn.