Commission grants short extensions, orders inspections for several fire‑ and storm‑damaged properties

The Hillsborough City Commission on June 23 heard public‑hearing testimony about multiple fire‑ and storm‑damaged structures and granted short extensions in several cases while ordering follow‑up inspections.

At a hearing on 105 3rd Avenue SW, a property representative described a pending sale and plans to rehabilitate the house, but city records and an April inspection listed multiple deficiencies — lack of running water, splitting and buckling structural members, roofing and decking problems. The commission voted to give the new owners 30 days to obtain a structural engineer's report and return with a repair plan. “We can give 30 days, extension, if you guys so choose,” the chair said during deliberations. The motion to grant the extension was moved by Paul and seconded by John; commissioners recorded yes votes and the motion carried.

Commission staff also reported on 411 North Main Street, where the fire report estimated 80% damage; commissioners reviewed whether permits and an engineering evaluation had been submitted and directed staff to follow up. At 618 2nd Street NW — described as a damaged pole‑barn/front section after last year’s storm — the inspector will re‑check progress before the next meeting; commissioners said they will proceed with enforcement if repairs stall. For the property at 318 2nd Street (fire), the commission voted to move forward with staff recommendations.

The actions were procedural: extensions and inspection assignments rather than immediate demolitions. Several speakers stressed that lack of progress would trigger enforcement at the next hearing; staff will provide copies of inspection reports and a contact for a structural engineer as requested by the commission.