Building official says downtown mall is ‘dangerous and unsafe’; council presses for documentation

Building Official Tim Maurer told Steubenville City Council the downtown mall has been monitored for ongoing deterioration and is posted with signage that reads, “uninhabitable, dangerous, and unsafe. Keep out.” Maurer said his department has followed the property since November and that condemnation—distinct from the current signage—would add the word “condemned” and allow legal enforcement against entry.

“ It says uninhabitable, dangerous, and unsafe. Keep out, or danger, keep out,” Maurer said, explaining the sign’s intent and the department’s goal of protecting public safety. Councilman Mayo repeatedly pressed for written reports and a clear timeline, asking what “catastrophic event” precipitated the current status and whether staff had prepared internal documentation to support enforcement actions. City Manager Michael Johnson and Urban Projects Director Jessica Gumm were present to answer follow-ups but said there was no new official contractor report to share at the meeting.

Maurer distinguished the city’s initial ‘unsafe’ declaration—intended as a warning and a courtesy to affected people—from the stronger legal designation of condemnation that permits prosecution for trespass. He said the department had visual reports and other documentation supporting the determination but acknowledged some records dated to observations starting in November. Council members pressed staff to produce formal written reports and a clear enforcement plan, with Mayo saying the current signage can be confusing to the public if it does not carry predictable legal consequences.

The exchange did not produce a new formal action at the meeting; Mayor Ralph Petrella urged civility and to move the agenda forward. Council asked staff to follow up with documentation at a future meeting and to clarify the steps the city will take if condemnation is pursued.