Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Code Enforcement Condemnation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council gives condemned property owner until March 17 to pay $19,768.67 or face demolition
Summary
Belle Isle council voted 5–1 to give the new homeowner of 3904 Araho Court, Bernard Turner, until noon on Tuesday, March 17 to deliver a certified or cashier’s check for $19,768.67 to City Hall, or the city will commence demolition on March 18.
The Belle Isle City Council set a firm deadline for the owner of a condemned property to settle outstanding fines and fees, voting 5–1 to require full payment by March 17 or proceed with demolition.
City staff summarized recent correspondence from the property owner’s mortgage advisor, stating the owner "is currently in the process of securing financing to resolve the outstanding fines and bring the property into full compliance" and the loan was "in its final stages." Staff said the mortgage company anticipated a closing and that funds would be available shortly thereafter.
Council debate focused on whether to allow a short additional period for the new homeowner to complete his financing. A councilmember moved "that the new homeowner, Bernard Turner, has until noon on Tuesday, March 17 to bring a certified or cashier's check to City Hall for all fees, fines, and other monetary obligations, or we will commence with demolition on the 18th." The motion was seconded with a friendly amendment that the total due is $19,768.67.
The motion passed 5–1; Commissioner Smith cast the lone no vote. The mayor confirmed the tally and staff were instructed to proceed with demolition plans if the payment was not received by the deadline.
Council members and staff stressed that the council had previously set the cost amount and that the extension was intended as a final opportunity to cure the outstanding balance. Staff said they will report back at the next council meeting.
