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Council tables transfer of 352 N. Wilson and declares 187 N. Elm a nuisance; resident raises steep valuation increase
Summary
Council tabled action on the possible transfer of 352 North Wilson pending further contact with the owner, passed a resolution declaring 187 North Elm Street a nuisance, and heard resident Jim Pney describe a sharp property‑valuation increase and appeal efforts.
The Ainsworth City Council on Sept. 1 decided to delay action on a proposed transfer of 352 North Wilson and instead asked staff and the city attorney to continue outreach to the property owner; the item was tabled pending confirmation of title and response to vacant‑property notices.
Council discussion: Staff said repeated attempts by city attorney Michael Scholes to contact the owner had not succeeded; the property had been on the vacant‑building registry and the owner had previously written that he wanted to convey the property to the city. Council agreed to continue attempts to contact the owner and to consider enforcement of vacant‑building fines if the owner fails to respond.
Nuisance resolution: Council later adopted Resolution 25‑04 declaring 187 North Elm Street a nuisance. The resolution formalizes prior action and was approved by unanimous roll call.
Resident valuation concern: Later in the meeting, resident Jim Pney told the council his land valuation rose from about $45,000 to $119,000 in a single year after assessor reclassification; he said the change increased his assessed value dramatically and described his appeal efforts with the county assessor. Council members explained that tax assessment and protest procedures are handled at the county level, recommended further inquiries (including a possible subdivision or survey to change acreage/square‑foot treatment), and said the city has limited direct authority over assessor valuations.
Next steps: The property at 352 North Wilson will remain on the agenda for follow‑up; the city attorney and staff will continue outreach. The city will proceed with nuisance‑resolution steps for 187 North Elm per the adopted resolution.
