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Resident says city denied water, electricity after adverse possession and property rehabilitation
Summary
A Mercedes resident who says he has been occupying and renovating an abandoned home for about a year told the commission he invested roughly $65,000, paid $8,000 toward $36,000 in back taxes, and was denied water and electrical service because of liens; the city attorney said the case is being litigated.
A resident addressed the Mercedes City Commission during open forum, saying he began occupying an abandoned home about a year ago and invested roughly $65,000 to renovate it. He said he has paid about $8,000 toward an estimated $36,000 in prior taxes and has sought water and power service, but city staff refused to activate utilities because of unpaid liens and prior code actions.
"I came also to the city of Mercedes asking for electricity, and they told me they couldn't give me no electricity," the resident told the commission, adding that because his family needed water he was forced to install a well. He said his wife is seriously ill and the house can reach "85 and 90 degrees" without reliable electric service. Mayor Oscar Montoya and staff did not answer during open forum; later, the city attorney advised the commission the matter is currently being litigated and staff hopes to find a resolution.
Commissioners did not take action during open forum. The resident asked the commission to consider how the city recognizes adverse possessors and handles liened properties when occupants invest in rehabilitation; he said he intended to pay outstanding taxes over time. The city attorney noted the legal status is in litigation and declined to discuss details in open session.
