Buhl council authorizes legal action to force cleanup of collapsed building at Forest and Culver

The Buhl City Council on July 9 voted to direct the city attorney to commence legal compliance actions to remediate two parcels at the northeast corner of Forest Street and Culver Avenue after a large commercial structure collapsed and remained unrepaired.

Administrator Tony Jeffries and city staff told the council the structure is non-repairable and that demolition and removal of building materials are the only plausible remedy. The parcels are owned by DonLee Pulford, who staff said had previously acknowledged the problem and indicated an intent to remedy the situation by June 20; staff reported little observable progress in 2024.

Councilor Loeffler moved to direct the City Attorney to commence formal compliance actions; Councilor Kealy supported the motion, which carried. The council discussed whether the project might qualify for commercial redevelopment funding from the Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) but noted eligibility often depends on re-establishing commercial use or pursuing blight remedies.

City Attorney Kearney advised the council that the enforcement process could proceed under criminal or civil routes and said, "the criminal route is usually quicker and at lower cost than a civil proceeding," framing enforcement speed and cost as factors in choosing the approach.

The motion gives the City Attorney authority to pursue court action or other remedies to bring the parcels into a safe and presentable condition. Council members also requested staff continue to explore redevelopment grant eligibility as a potential funding pathway.

The council did not adopt a specific timeline for demolition at the meeting; next steps are for the City Attorney to file the appropriate compliance paperwork and for staff to report back on any available grant options or immediate abatement needs.