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Huntsville council authorizes demolition of unsafe Melody Drive home after owner seeks time to assess repairs
Summary
The council voted June 11 to authorize abatement of an unsafe structure at 3804 Melody Drive after staff said an independent inspection found a 98% loss; the owner asked for time to obtain an independent contractor inspection and council agreed to allow coordination during the standard 30‑day mobilization window.
The Huntsville City Council on June 11 voted to authorize the abatement and demolition of an unsafe residence at 3804 Melody Drive after city staff said an independent contractor determined the structure was not structurally feasible to repair.
Scott Erwin of the Community Development Department told the council the property was inspected and “it totaled at a 98% loss,” and that owners had been notified and given a deadline of April 22, 2026, to remove the structure before the city sought authorization to abate. Erwin said the city would continue to work with owners ethically to secure the property and, if presented with credible evidence from an independent contractor that renovation was feasible, staff would review that information.
Property owner Leroy Barley, who said he and his sister live out of state and have relied on family to monitor the vacant house, asked the council to allow additional time so contractors could safely inspect the interior. “We just don't think it is necessary to tear it down without an adequate assessment of what would be needed and get full numbers on that,” Barley said, adding that they had been unable to enter the property since the notice was posted.
Council members asked whether anyone could legally enter the structure for inspection; Erwin replied that individuals are not allowed to enter unsafe structures, but licensed contractors may perform assessments under controlled conditions. Council members noted the city’s usual schedule means demolition mobilization typically takes a minimum of 30 days, providing a window for owners to arrange an assessment.
Mr. Little moved to approve the resolution authorizing abatement, the chair seconded, and the motion carried by voice vote. The council directed staff to coordinate with Mr. Barley so the family could schedule a licensed contractor to inspect the property during the 30‑day period; if an independent evaluation demonstrated the building could be repaired with a feasible budget and timeline, staff said it would consider that information before proceeding.
The hearing and vote concluded with the council expressing sympathy and wishing the family safe travel home.
Next steps: staff will coordinate access for a licensed contractor during the 30‑day window and return any substantive new findings to the council as warranted.
