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Engineers: widespread rot, structural shifting make accessory structure unsafe, agent says
Summary
Project agent and a structural engineer presented reports showing rotted posts, lack of footing, shifting second floor and unstable staircases; the engineer concluded the building poses significant risk of failure under code loads.
An engineer's report entered into the record described widespread structural deterioration at the accessory building behind 1410 South DeSoto, and an agent for the owner told commissioners relocation or rehabilitation would likely be infeasible.
Catherine Coyle summarized the belt/engineer report and walked commissioners through photos that show posts sitting on bricks and significant rot at post bases, a shifting second floor and unstable stairs; she said the report finds the structure “exhibits widespread and advanced deterioration affecting multiple primary structural components.” The report also warns the structure is at a “significant risk of structural failure under the applicable Florida building code loading conditions.”
The agent and engineer noted the site has no alley access and the rear wall abuts a neighbor's large accessory structure, which complicates any relocation or repair. Commissioners said short‑term shoring or temporary measures might limit immediate risk, but several agreed rehabilitation appeared impractical and dangerous.
