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St. Joseph County affirms multiple demolition orders, grants 30‑day extensions to some owners
Summary
The county affirmed demolition orders for several blighted properties under Indiana Code 36-7-9-1 and granted 30‑day extensions to owners who requested more time to remove structures; building commissioner said notices were sent by certified mail and publication.
The St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners on June 16 affirmed demolition orders for multiple properties the county deemed vacant, blighted and a hazard to public health and granted short extensions in two cases while owners complete removal.
Building Commissioner Randy James told the board the properties meet the statutory standard for demolition under Indiana Code 36-7-9-1. For some addresses the county reported the structure was condemned months or years earlier and remained in impaired condition. Mr. James said the department sends at least two certified mailings, regular mail and publishes notice in the Mishawaka Enterprise and South Bend Tribune to meet statutory notice requirements.
The board affirmed demolition orders for: 30430 Osborne Road (North Liberty), 52079 Forestbrook Avenue, 25417 Prescott Avenue, 52349 Prescott Avenue and 55548 Fairview Avenue. Two owners received 30‑day extensions: Joshua Simon Ellis (54421 29th Street) was granted a 30‑day extension after reporting the garage was about 70% dismantled and promising to complete demolition; Christopher Ebron (54681 Terrace Lane) received a 30‑day extension after requesting more time because of recent health and staffing issues. Commissioners noted that if a structure is demolished by a private buyer or the owner obtains permits and begins work, county staff can halt the county demo process.
County staff explained next steps after affirmation: the county solicits bids for demolition contractors, awards a contract (a process that can take 45–60 days), and may place a lien or seek a judgment to recover demolition costs if the county must perform the work. The building commissioner said lien holders and interested parties will receive additional notice before a contractor performs demolition.
Commissioners Morton, Hazen and Baxmeyer voted to affirm the orders or extensions at successive roll calls.
The board set July 21 as the next evening meeting for follow-up on properties given extensions if staff does not confirm demolition beforehand.
