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Fire Marshall urges immediate abatement of repeatedly burned house on South 4th Street
Summary
City fire officials described two fires at 615 South 4th Street and recommended immediate summary abatement under municipal code following structural compromise, vagrant activity, and a high fire load; staff outlined asbestos inspection and lien procedures.
Fire Marshall Richie told the Lovington City Commission that a residence at 615 South 4th Street has burned twice — once January 1, 2025, and again last week — and that the property presents an ongoing hazard to neighbors and first responders. He used the term 'incendiary' to describe a human-caused fire where intent is not yet established, and urged the commission to consider immediate abatement under municipal code sections 8.28.05–.06.
Richie described structural compromise, high fuel loads, and a history of people entering the damaged structure, and showed images of degradation. Staff explained the abatement process: attempt owner contact, perform an asbestos inspection if safe to enter (or deem materials asbestos if unsafe), and if demolition occurs, place a lien on the property to recover costs. If asbestos is present, licensed abatement would increase costs.
Commissioners directed staff to obtain cost estimates, contact the property owner about posting 'no trespassing' signs and potential removal, and coordinate with legal counsel about resolution language if formal action is necessary. Staff also suggested clearing surrounding vegetation to reduce spread risk while the process continues.
What’s next: Code enforcement and public-works staff will provide a cost estimate and next steps (asbestos inspection decision, notice or summary abatement) to the commission for potential action at a future meeting.
