Residents press Ely council to clear demolition rubble and address alleged selective enforcement and erosion

Several Ely residents used the public-comment period to press the council on property and code-enforcement issues.

Anthony Ithurralde read a written letter from neighbors of Cedar Street and Campton that said demolition debris at 493 Cedar Street has remained for roughly a year and described the rubble as a "fire hazard, possible waste hazard, and wind hazard." Ithurralde asked the City to help resolve what neighbors characterized as neglect and to enforce demolition permit requirements.

Resident George Chachas raised multiple ongoing concerns including requests for records about the Bell Avenue Water Main Upgrade (CDBG 22/pf/04), alleged damage and unaddressed change orders related to sewer work, and a request for correspondence sent to named property owners about code enforcement. He alleged "Your Clerk appears to be selectively enforcing City regulations" and urged the council to comply with federal nondiscrimination requirements when handling utility and public-works matters.

Chachas also reported vandalism and erosion problems affecting his property at 622 High Street and told the council that surface drainage behind his property has not been routed to prevent erosion. He said he has raised these matters repeatedly and asked the city to provide inspection records and other documentation he has requested.

City staff did not record a resolution during the meeting for these complaints; the comments were taken into the record for follow-up. Residents asked the Council and building-department staff to confirm the status of demolition permits, inspections and any enforcement actions, and to respond with the requested correspondence and inspection documentation.