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Colfax council asks staff to explore options for vacant and unmaintained downtown properties
Summary
Councilmember Sevedge raised concerns about vacant, poorly maintained downtown buildings; Councilmember McRae referenced strategies discussed by Rebecca Undem of Growing Small Towns and examples from Medical Lake and Spokane. Mayor Retzer asked staff to research possible solutions but cautioned against overreach.
Councilmember Sevedge asked the council to consider what actions the city could take concerning vacant and unmaintained downtown businesses and properties. Sevedge requested staff look into potential responses.
Councilmember McRae said she attended an Inland Northwest Partners meeting where Rebecca Undem from Growing Small Towns discussed vacant building ordinances and strategies to address properties in serious disrepair; McRae noted both Medical Lake and the city of Spokane have approved ordinances addressing such issues. Mayor Jim Retzer said the city should "proceed carefully" and signaled the city should avoid unduly telling property owners how to maintain their properties; he directed staff to research possible solutions.
The council did not introduce specific ordinance language or take action at the May 5 meeting; the direction was for staff to gather information and report back for possible next steps.
