Adopt Resolution 20-260 Approving Abatement and Code Enforcement Process for 15740 Ramsey Blvd NW

The purpose of this case is to declare the structure hazardous and approve abatement of nuisance items and lay out a proposed code enforcement process for 15740 Ramsey Blvd NW (the "Subject Property").


 

No notification required. Staff has sent letters to the Subject Property and attempted to get in contact with the owner to inform them of the process and meetings.

The Subject Property is currently abandoned and vacant, and has had numerous police calls to the property lately for public safety reasons. There have been fires lit inside the abandoned home, and the Police Department has found the property to be unsecured (front door open). The Subject Property has been a known vacant building for many years. As the threat to public safety continues, the Public Safety and Community Development Departments are requesting authorization from the City Council to board up the home, ensuring that others are not able to get inside the home. The home is considered unfit for human occupancy at this time, as there is not gas, power, or water supply to our knowledge to the property.

The home on the Subject Property has been posted by the Building Department as unsafe. Staff is requesting authorization to board up the home, including windows and locking all doors, to ensure that it is not continued to be broken into.

Staff has attempted to make contact with the Property Owner numerous times, and was able to reach an apparent partner of the Property Owner who has stated they will board up the home. Staff is hopeful that they follow through on this, but is requesting authorization as the previous deadline for boarding has passed.

Ensuring that this structure is stopped from being broken into is a public safety priority. The fires being lit inside the building are likely from kids and teenagers, and if the building becomes engulfed in fire, it could potentially put the surrounding area and responding fire fighters at risk. Staff feels strongly that boarding-up the building is the easiest and safest route to ensure safety for our community and to lower the risk and continued need for City services (e.g. police and fire calls onsite) at this home, thereby allowing Staff to focus on other issues throughout the City.

Specific abatement options, including removal of structure, will be forwarded to the City Council at a future date. This starts a process of enforcement. Staff hopes that this action will lead to voluntary compliance by the Owner. Staff hopes that aggressive enforcement shall not be required, but this step is an important tool in the toolbox. 

Staff handles all Code Enforcement as part of regular duties.

Staff recommends the Council adopt Resolution 20-260.

Motion to adopt Resolution 20-260.