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99-731ORIGINAL Presented By Green Sheet # �� 3 RESOLUTION CITY OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA Referred To Council File # � - � 3 � Committee: Date 43 VJF�,REAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement has requested the City Council to hold public hearings to consider the advisability and necessity of oxdering the repair or wrecking and removal of a three-story, wood frame struchue located on property hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Property" and commonly known as 419 Sherbutne Avenue. This properry is legally described as follows, to wit: Lot 36, Block 16, Smith's Subdivision of Stinson's Division of the NW l/4 of Section 36, Township 29, Range 23. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 WfIEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and 'mformation obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before February 17, 1999, the following are the now known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Property: Tracy D. & Christine V. Sylvis, 1670 Beech Street, Saint Paul, MN 55 1 06-491 1; Tracy D. & Cl�ristine V. Sylvis, 1316 South Everett Street, Stillwater, MN 55082-5941; Clay Masson, 765 Reaney Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55106; Minne - Mine Credit Union, 1815 Suburban Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55ll 9; Mr. & Mrs. Chester Pexkowitz, 7370 Concerto Curve NE, Fridley, MN 55432 WHEREAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code an order identified as an"Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s)" dated April Z0, 1999; and WIIEREA5, this order informed the then irnown interested or responsibie parties that the structure located on the Subject Properry is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and WI�REAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or demolish the structure located on the Subject Property by May 20, 1999; and WHEREAS, the enforcement officer has posted a placard on the Subject Property declaring this building(s} to constitute a nuisance condition; subject to demolition; and WHEREAS, this nuisance condition has not been corrected and Division of Code Enforcement requested that the City Clerk schedule public hearings before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the City Council and the Saint Paul City Council; and WHEREAS, the interested and responsible parties have been served notice in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, of the time, date, place and purpose of the public hearings; and 4R -'7 3 l 1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City Council on 2 Tuesday, July 20, 1999 to heaz testimony and evidence, and after receiving testiznony and evidence, 3 made the recommendation to approve the request to order the interested or responsible parties to make 4 the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove 5 its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating tlus structure in accordance with all applicable 6 codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the structure in accordance 7 with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the structure to be 8 completed within fifteen (I S) days after the date of the Council Hearing; and 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, Ju1y 28, 1999 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was considered by the Council; now therefore BE IT RE50LVED, that based upon the testnnony and evidence presented at the above refetenced public hearings, the Saint Paul City Council hereby adopts the following Findings and Order concerning the Subject Property at 419 Sherburne Avenue: That the Subject Property comprises a nuisance condition as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 45. 2. G. � That the costs of demolition and xemoval of this building(s) is estimated to exceed three thousand dollars ($3,000.00). That there now exists and has existed multiple Housing or Building code violations at the Subject Properry. That an Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) was sent to the then known responsible parties to correct the deficiencies or to demolish and remove the building(s). That the deficiencies causing this nuisance condition have not been corrected. That Division of Code Enforcement has posted a placard on the Subject Property which declares it to be a nuisance condition subject to demolition. That this building has been routinely monitored by the Citizen Service Offices, Division of Code Enforcement, VacantlNuisance Buildings. 8. That the known interested parties and owners are as previously stated in this resolution and that the notification requirements of Chapter 45 have been fulfilled. ORDER The Saint Paul City Council hereby makes the following order: The above referenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating this structure and correcting all deficiencies as prescribed in the above referenced Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) in accordance with all applicabie codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the structure in accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition and removal of the structure must be completed within fifteen (15) days days after the date of the Council Hearing. ORIG{NAL q�-'131 1 2. If the above corrective action is not completed within this period of time the Citizen Service 2 Office, Division of Code Enforcement is hereby authorized to take whatever steps are necessary 3 to demolish and remove this structure, fill the site and charge the costs incurred against the 4 Subject Properry pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paui Legislative Code. 5 9 10 11 12 4. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the City of Saint Paul, all personal property or fixtures of any kind which interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed from the properiy by the responsible parties by the end of this time period. If a11 personal property is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and dispose of such property as provided by law. It is fi�rther ordered, that a copy of this resolution be mailed to the owners and interested parties in accordance with Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. Requested by Department of: Citize Ser ' e ice� C de Enforcement B . S Aaoptea bY coun��i: nate ��,��7 \9`�`\ —�-- Adoption Certified by Council Secretary Form Ap�roved by City Attorney � Approved by r: Date /"��" � ��`t� By: i�iVVl- B ' Approved by Mayor for Submission to Cc — . � Warren R Bostrom 266-8439 � 'FOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES �ta -�� 1 GREEN SHEET No 61673 MltlallOSb MXIaIIDale 1 DF'�ARIYBRORFtTdt a1YCOIMCL �a„�.,,� � �«F.� �..�.��. ��.��.�a �..,��.m.. � (CLIP ALL LO ATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) City Councii to pass this resolution which will order the owner(s) to remove or repair the referenced building(s). If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. The subject property is located at 419 Sherburne Avenue. PLANNING COMMISSION CIB CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Has thic persoNfim everworketl untler a contrec[ forfhic departmeM? YES NO Hes this P�eoNfirtn ever been a dry empbyee4 YES NO Do� this persoNfirm poscess a sidll not rwrtnallYW� bY any cuttent city employeel Y�S ' NO Is ihie � a targHetl vendoR YES � NO yain ail vrs answe�s on seoa�ate sheM aM atlach to mcen sheet This building(s) is a nuisance building(s) as defined in Chapter 45 and a vacant building as defined in Chapter 43 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. The owners, interested parties and responsible parties known to the Enforcement Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue by May 20, 1999, and have failed to comply with those ordexs. �,w � � f*' F" ` g'� � � � �f]VANTACFSIFAPPROVF� .. • �- �- J 7�� t ead s 4 U'v!b The City wili eluninate a nuisance. s a,�i re s �� '�'��'-�"�'�'�`� �"��,.��"�� The City will spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs will be assessed to the property, A nuisance condirion will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community. AMOUNTOFTRANSACTIONS $10,000 - $11,000 SOURCE Nuisance Housing Abatement (��M COST/REVENUE BUDQEfED IqRCLE ONt� YE acrnmNU�eER 33261 � COUnc� Research Center �,�_�3� REPORT LEGISLATIVE HEARING Date: August 10, 1999 Time: lO:Od a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevard Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer _,�L 1. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the buiiding at 419 Sherburne Avenue. �1 If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99? Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the October 19 Legislative Hearing. 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. rrri REPORT Date: October 19, 1999 Time: 10:00 am. Place: Room 33Q City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer 1. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 8-10-99) Gerry Sttatlunan recommended approval. 2. Sununary Abatement for 917 Euclid Street; Clifford Willie. (J9967A) (I,aid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $148 plus the $40 service fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $188. Summary Abatement for 1895 Maenolia Avenue East; Bruce and Holly Zschokke. (J9906A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1089 Marshall Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 16, 19:s?, Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1328 M:nnehaha Avenue West. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. 6. � Summary Abatement for 1183 Arkwri¢ht Street; Donald Drouin, Jr. (J9407A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. rtn �t9-'1 �1 NIINi7TES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEt1RING Tuesday, August 10, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislarive Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:01 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votei, Code Enforcement Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. {Laid over from 7-20-49} Gerry Stratluuan stated on 7uly 20 there were questions about Bee Vue getting control of the ProP�S'• Bee Vue appeazed and stated he is in the process of foreclosing on the property. It wi11 take another eight weeks before he can get control of it. The tases and vacant building fee have been paid. He is not the fee owner so he cannot enter the properry nor can he post bond. The building is not occupied. Gerry Strathman asked is he taking care of the exterior. Mr. Vue responded he does not know if he can do that because he is not the owner. Chuck Votel responded the property has not been a problem. An inspector was there a week ago; the building was secured and the grass was cut. Any issues with giving Mr. Vue a couple of months, asked Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded no, but exterior maintenance should be maintained, such as cutting the g�ass, picking up gazbage, and making sure the property is secure. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over Chis matter to the October 14 Legislative Hearing on condition that Bee Vue keeps the property exterior maintained and secure. Resolufion ordering the owner ta remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buxen Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99} Gerry Strathman stated this was laid over from July 20. He asked where the matter is today. Dwayne and Joy Albrecht appeazed. Mr. Albrecht stated he was wnder the imptession that once the property was removed under the selective clearance process, the Albrechts wouid have control of the lot. The Albrechts found out the City would take control of the properry and pays out at a pre-determined aznount. Mr. Albrecht was debating whether to go through the selective cleazance process. aq-��1 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 8-10-99 Page 2 Gerry Strathman asked how long it will take to sort this out. Mr. Albrecht responded as long as it takes to find out what the City is willing to pay. Sally Peterson reported tide work needs to be done on the properiy, and the Albrechts will need to get power of attomey. It is unknown what the City will pay; however, the City is going through the selective clearance paperwork. David Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Corporation (H-MARC), appeared and stated they would like to see selective clearance go through. H-MARC would then purchase the land from the City. The owner then gets the value of the property. Done a different way, a new owner will take on the fee for the demolition. Ts a few weeks an issue, asked Mr. Strathman. Chuck Votel responded he does not think so. Also, if Code Enforcement demolished the properiy as a nuisance removal, the foundarion a foot below grade would be left in the ground. With selective clearance, the entire foundation is removed, wkrich makes the lot more suitable for building. The properry is being secured and maintained on the outside. Sa11y Petezson responded selective clearance needs two weeks. Cserry Strathxnan recommended ]aying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 a.m. rrn REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall I S West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislafive Hearing Officer 1. Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Chazles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) ' Cserry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. 2. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File 79903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �Lq 3. Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and a71 of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private properry during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Chazles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Sirathman recommended approvai of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $4Q administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $ i 5Q. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. a�-��t LEGISLATIVE HEARING REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1068 Ielehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolurion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolurion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner faiis to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. nn �� MINUTES OF Tf� LEGI5LATTVE HEARING Tuesday, July 20, 1999 �� . Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer T4ie meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; C:uy VJillits, Code Enforcement Snmmary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on March 29, 1999, to remove garbage, rubbish, fiuniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, etc. The work was done by Parks and Recreation on April 9 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeared and stated a lot of trash was on the lot, but she cleaned up much of it. Gerry Strathman stated all he saw in the videotape was brush. The owner must have done ea�tensive cieaning. Mr. Willits concurred. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $295 to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reportsd this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeared and stated he got a call in the morning that a house had exploded from naturai gas. He feels the board up fee is excessive. (Mr. DeRusha was shown the biil.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boarding company. The reason 3t is costly is because tbe company has to respond isnmediately whenever the police or fire departrnent calls them. The police and fire departments cannot leave a building unsecured. Mr. Strathman agrees the fee is high, but it is what the City is being chazged for the kind of service the City has to have. It should be covered by the insurance company because it is related to the accident. Mr. DeRusha responded he did not know the amount to bili, and today's hearing is after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 ��_��\ Page 2 ' commercial rate of $13.50. This fee is $1,490, wlrich is $210 an hour. He has no control over this tragedy, and Northern States Power (NSP) says they are not taking any responsibility for it. Mr. Strathman asked how the contractors aze selected. Chuck Votel responded these contracts aze put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a lisY of known contractors that aze registered with the City. The contractor has to be on ca1124 hours a day and be prepared to do this work. They usually go with the lowest bidder, which is what was done in this case. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File 39904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and ali of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J4404A) Larry and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeared and stated they saw the cieanup. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on May 7, 1999, to remove gazbage. The work was done by Parks and Recreation on May 20 for a fee of $220.50. (A videotape was shown.) He 3s puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with the Fletchers on May 13, and it was still there on May 20, stated Mr. Strathman. Ms. Fletcher responded it was discussed with the owners and not them. It was inside the yazd, stated Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Strathman explained trash cannot be stored outside in Saint Paul. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing the notice was given and the work was done. The assessment will be to the property owner. 408 Charles Avenue (File J99Q2V) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeared representing the properry. Gerry Strathman recommended appzoval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� Daniel Feess, owner, appeared. �� 3� Page 3 Guy Willits reported orders were posted on October 21, 1998, and mailed on October 22 to remove an abandoned vehicle with no license plates, hood, nor engine. The vehicle was removed on November 17 for a total of $570.90. It was auctioned for $60, which has been subtracted from the assessment fee. (Photographs were presented and later returned.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded he did not have that information. Chuck Votel added that the impound lot sends notice to the owner and lien holders. Mr. Feess stated his tenant lives downstairs. He kept telling his tenant to remove the vehicle. When the vehicle was gone, Mr. Feess assumed the tenant removed it. The vehicle has nothing to do with Mr. Feess. If it is on your propezty, then you are responsible for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathman asked for an estimate of how much is the storage. Mr. Willits responded the majority is storage. Mr. Votel responded a routine tow is about $125. The property has a history of notices, stated Mr. Willits. Mr. Feess responded renters leave things outside and don't ciean up after themselves. He tries to stay on top of it, but his job requires him to be out of town three months at a time. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $570.90 to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 13 and 2Q 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 5 for $550. This is a vacant lot. (A videotape was shown. A worker says on the videotape that a fence was not seen.) Rosita Meehan and Kathleen Kieser, 1227 Seventh Street West, appeazed and said they had just cut down their tree plus the neighbor's tree. They took a11 the heavy stuff away. It was ��=1�� LEGTSLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. They missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in their pile of mail. When the brush was gone, they assumed the company had taken it away. He is amazed at the cost of $550, stated Gerry Strathman. Mr. Willits responded he did not see on the videotape any of the items, except for the brush. The assessment does seem high. Gerry Suathman recommended reducing the assessment from $550 to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. The notice was sent as required; however, the charge does seem excessive in view of the work that was done. 2106 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Sam Czaplewski, fee owner, appeared and stated his son lives at this properry. Guy Willits reported orders were maited on April 8, 1994, to remove a refrigerator, mattresses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old feneing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Parks and Recreation did the work on Apri123 for a total of $293. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Czaplewski stated the videotape is a lie because the workers did not clean up anything except for the refrigerator. He has already been to court on this, and the judge dismissed the case. (The videotape was shown again.) The refrigerator was moved out while the kitchen floor was being replaced, stated Mr. Czaplewski. He is going to have to hire an attomey £or this. He would like $1,200 retumed to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the carpeting. Mr. Czapiewski responded it was cleaned up. Mr. Strathman stated they took videotape that shows carpet present and then took more videotape that shows the carpet gone. Some of the videotape was taken after his tenants removed the items, stated Mr. Czaplewski. Mr. Strathman stated he does not believe the refrigerator was outside for two weeks while the floor was being repaired, nor does he believe the tenants cleaned up the couch or the carpet. The videotape is taken when they arrive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants are lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an ea�tension of rime for his attorney to handle ttus issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Strathman explained, a notice needs to be sent to him by noon on Thursday. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment because he does not find Mr. Czaplewski's story eredibie. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) LEGISLATIVE HEARING MII�IIJTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� No one appeazed representing the properry. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the properry. Gerry Sh�athman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeared. �1��3� Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fiuniture. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 18 for $295. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Favis stated the tenant is responsible for this. There were three people living there, and then there were about 15 people in the house. Since October 1998, Ms. Favis had been telling the tenants to move. The tenants say they would be homeless. Ms. Favis has asked for assistance from crime services to help the tenants. Crime services suggested she raise the rent. The tenants rely on social security. If Ms. Fauis filed for eviction in court, she would get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fi�ng the inside because the tenants clogged the toilet and there were problems with the ceiling. Ms. Favis told the tenants to leave because she is in trouble with Code Enforcement and they trashed the place. She will not file charges against them. She is already paying too much in taYes. Gerry Suathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw all the gazbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The properiy has to be painted. She is thinking about foreclosing on the property. Why wasn't it cleaned up when the notice was received, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Favis responded she wrote a letter to the tenant to remove the gazbage. They promised they would do it. (Mr. Willits presented photographs to Mr. Strathman. They were later rehuned.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LBGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF 7-20-99 1068 I�lebart Avenue (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment per Guy VJillits. c �-� ` Page 6 Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherbume Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this buiiding has been condexnned since March 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Christine Sylvis aze the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate ta�ces are due in the amount of $3,078.02. The estimated market value is $46,800; estimated cost to repair, $20,000; cost to demolish, $10,000 to $I 1,000. All interested parties have been notified. A. Vue appeazed on behalf ofhis brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this property. Bee Vue wrote a letter concerning what he intends to do with the property. (A. Vae handed Mr. Strathman a letter from Bee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs aze the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded they aze the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitled Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get control of this properry. A. Vue responded two weeks. It appeazs to be secured, said Mr. Strathman. Mr. Votel concurred. Mr. Votel added that in June the City issued two summary abatement notices to clean the yazd and cut the grass. Mr. Strathman stated it is in Bee Vue's best interest to take caze of the yazd. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner faffs to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votei reported this building has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The Ciry has issued three summary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the properLy. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated mazket value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 ��_ �3 � Page 7 Dave Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Cooperation (H-MARC), appeared and stated the house does need to come down. H-MARC is interested in talking with the owners about purchasing the properry with the intent to tear the house down and build a new one. Jayne Strane and Dayne Albrecht appeazed. Mr. Albrecht stated the property belongs to his wife's mother who is not able to deal with this properry. There is a program called selective cleazance, which they applied for last year. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not warrant repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove or repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the properry. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the buiiding. Sally Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selective cleazance. The application was missing certain information such as the address and date. Now, a new application is being done. Ms. Albrecht responded she has not received a new application. Mr. Strathman stated he would like to see a city staff person work with the Albrechts and bring them to PED. In the meantime, the Albrechts may want to talk with H-MARC. He may have to deal with power of attorney, and he is not aware of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there are no any immediate issues with this property. Gerry Suathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional time to deal with this property. Hopefully, there will be a pian worked out by then. The meeting was adjourned at 1133 a.m. rrn , CITI7.EN SERVICE OFfICE Fred Owusu, Crty Clerk ��-�?31 DMSION OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCE4�N'C Wasren ft BOStrnm Pro�'am Manager '� �, 1 �l� SC�Lyl rAUL NuiranceBuildingCodeEnforce�nen[ Norm Colemars, Mayor 1� W. Kellogg Blvd Rm. 190 Saint Paul, e4LV SSIO2 � 7une 25, 1999 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Council President and Members of the City Council ?el: 6i1-?66-8-150 Faz: 651-266-3426 Citizen Service Office, Vacant/Nuisance Buildings Enforcement Division has requested the City Council schedule public hearings to consider a resolution ordering the repair or removal of the nuisance building(s) located at: 419 Sherburne Avenue The City Council has scheduled the date of these hearings as follows: LegislaYive 13earing - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 City Council Hearing - Wednesday, July 28, 1999 The owners and responsible parties of record are: Name and Last Known Address Tracy D. & Christine V. Sylvis 1670 Beech Street Saint Paul, tVII�1 5�106-4911 Tracy D. & Christlne V. Sylvis li 16 South Everett Street Stillwater, MN »082-5941 Clay Maxson 765 Reaney Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55106 Minne - Mine Credit Union 181� SuburbanAvenue Maplewood, N1N 55119 Intere;t Fee Owner Fee Owner �a:.��ll;±} o.�,S`G'uCG2? l�',�'i¢�?' J�� Interested Pam Mortgagee 419 Sherbume Avenue June 25, 1999 Pa�e 2 Name and Last Known Address Interest Mr. & Mrs. Chester Perkowitz 7370 Concerto Curve NE Fridley, MN 55432 The le�al description of this property is: Fee Owner Lot 36, Block 16, Smith's Subdivision of Stinson's Division of the NW 1/4 of Section 36, Township 29, Range 23. �� -� 3 ( Division of Code Enforcement has declared this building(s) to constitute a"miisance" as defined by Legislative Code, Chapter 45. Division of Code Enforcement has issued an order to the then known responsible pazties to eliminate this miisance condition by correctin� the deficiencies or by razing and removing this buildin�(s). Inasmuch as this Order to Abate has not been complied with the nuisance condition remains unabafed, the community continues to suffer the blighting influence of this property. It is the recommendation of the Division of Code Enforcement that the City Comlcil pass a resolution ordering the responsible parties to either repair, or demolish and remove this buildin� in a timely manner, and failing that, authorize the Division of Code Enforcement to proceed to demolition and removal, and to assess the costs incurred a�ainst the real estate as a special assessment to be collected in the same manner as taxes. � � ..�� z ,, Steve Majner Vacant Buildings Supervisor Aivision of Code Enforcement Citizen Service Office SM:mt cc: Frank Ber�, Buildin� Inspection and Design Rachel Young, Ciry Attomeys Office Nancy Anderson, Assistant Secxetary to the Council Steve Zaccard, Fire Mazshall Paul Mordorski, PED-Housin� D'avision MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, October 19,1999 Room 330 City Hall Gerry Strathman, L,egislative Hearing Officer �� ` �3 - STAFF PRESEI�'T: Steve Magner, Code Enforcement; Guy VJillits, Code Enforcement Gerry Strathman called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m. � Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 8-10-99) (No one appeazed representing this property.) Steve Magner reported this property was laid over based on a request from Bee Vue who wanted to straighten out ownership of the building. To Mr. Magner's knowledge, that has not been done. Gerry Strathxnan recommended approval of the resolution citing no one is here representing the properry and there is no further information on the property. Summary Abatement for 917 Euclid Street; Clifford Willie. (J9907A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Floyd L3nruh, co-owner with Clifford Willie, appeared. (A videotape was shown. Guy Willits supplied paperwork to Gerry Strathman.) Mr. Unruh stated he hired someone to break up a davenport and put it in the dumpster along with other materials that were there. Someone threw it off the dumpster saying the davenport could not be hauled away. Mr. Unruh called azound to see where he could take it; in the meantime, the City took it. The videotape shows materials plus other items, such as a washer; however, there has never been a washer or dryer on the properiy. It may have come from the renter next door. Mr. Unruh does not deny the properry was cleaned up, but he feels the chazge is excessive. Mr. Strathman agreed the charge is high, but it is expensive for the City to do it and it is not a business the City is in. It is cleaz Mr. t3nruh was notified and the City did the cleanup. Mr. Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded the one hour charge is $210 for the crew, one yard of refuse for $18, and one appliance for $25. Mr. Strathman stated the $18 and $25 are actual costs Mr. Unruh would have had to pay himself; however, the hour charge is a little high. ��=�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINTJTES OF 10-19-99 Page 2 Gerry Stratlunan recommended reducing the hour charge by half which makes it $105, plus the one yard of refuse for $18, the appliance for $25, plus the $40 service fee, wluch brings the assessment to a total of $188. Summary Abatement for 1895 Magnolia Avenue East; Bruce and Holly Zschokke. (J9906A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) The following appeared: Holly Zschokke, former owner; Floyd Unruh, realtor; Hector Ponce de Leon, present owner. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on 6-24-99 and posted on the door to remove all rubbish from porch area, greenhouse area, and cut tail grass. The comply date was 6-29-99. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on 7-12-99 for $1,155. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Zschokke stated the future owners said they would clean up the grass, and Ms. Zschokke had someone clean up the patio. She assumed the grass was taken care of, but she could see from the videotape the grass did not look good. However, the issue is that items were taken that the future owner wanted to purchase. Mr. Strathman stated he didn't see anything on the videotape except for old broken appliances and rires. Ms. Zschokke responded lawn mowers were taken, and there were items in the greenhouse that the owner wanted to use. Mr. Unruh stated his company Unruh Realty sold the property. The buyer, Mr. de Leon, agreed to cut the grass and was awaze of what was in the greenhouse. The lawn mowers were workable, and the only thing off of them was the grass catcher. Some items were gone from the greenhouse that were used for the operation of opening and closing the windows: geazs, handles, rods. The City had no right to go into the greenhouse. When the notice was received, Mr. Unruh contacted the Ciry and told them the property was sold and the buyer would take the properry as is. Mr. de Leon stated the reason the grass was not cut very well is because it was so long and the blade broke on his lawn mower. Mr. Willits stated Maynard Vinge spoke to Mr. Unruh at least three times before the cleaning took piace. Mr. Vinge also spoke to Mr. de Leon on 7-3-99. A total of 17 days was given before the work was done. Mr. Strathman stated there are two issues here. 1) The City did act properly in terms of doing the abatement because the notification was proper and more than reasonable time was given for the owner to make the corrections. It also appeazed the City did a great deal of work. 2) If the City ct� �� \ LEGISLATIVE FiEARING MINUTES OF 10-19-99 Page 3 took property that should not have been taken, it cannot be resolved here. A claim would need to be filed against the City for the value of the tools that aze missing. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Resolution ordering the owaer to remove or repair the building at 1089 Marshall Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Ben Roberts, owner, appeazed. Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since December 1991. There have been 17 summary abatements issued on this properiy to remove refuse, secure the building, remove gr�ti, and cut tall grass. The City has had to board the building against trespass. The vacant building fees and real estate taxes are paid. Taxation has placed an estimated mazket value of $18,900 on the property and the repair costs are estimated at $20,000. There is no current code inspection. A bond was posted and forfeited. Mr. Roberts stated he talked to Reneta Weiss and the information he received was that no new permits were required to complete the work. When bonds are forfeited, responded Mr. Magner, the permits expire, and Don Wagner will not issue a code compliance certificate until a new bond is posted and permits are issued. The building permit was issued on 2-14-95. There are six months on the permits under a bond and another six months can be granted. The bonds were forfeited 2-16-96. Mr. Roberts stated the building is neaz completion. He met with two inspectors there and told them he hoped to get it ready in 60 days, but it may be completed by the end of the month. He thought all he had to do is call Don Wagner and get a code compliance inspection. The electrical work is scheduled to be finished, and a permit is going to be pulled on that. Everything is finished on the inside of all the rooms. It looks like all this work was done without permits, stated NIr. Strathman. Mr. Roberts responded it was his impression that the building permits stood. Mr. Roberts stated he does not think the City put any boazds on the house. He received a notice that it needed to be secured and Mr. Roberts did that. Mr. Strathman responded the summary abatements are peripheral. The City has begun the process to order this building removed or repaired within 15 days. It sounds like work has been going on for three yeazs without benefit of permits. On the other hand, the owner feels the building is ready for occupancy so it is absurd to talk about teazing it down. The property needs to be inspected to see if it is ready for occupancy. A code compliance inspection is needed. �1�= t�3 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 10-19-99 � Steve Magner eaplained if a code compliance inspection is needed, it is a matter of obtaining a new $2,000 bond, a building permit, electrical permit, completing those repairs, and calling Don Wagner for an inspection. Some of this work was done under permits, but a new bond and pemut is needed to finish the repairs. Mr. Roberts stated he does not have $2,000 to post a bond. He was planning to have a code compliance inspection done by the end of this month. If there aze things Mr. Wagner says need to be done, Mr. Roberts will need time to do those. Gerry Strathtnan recommended laying over to the November 16, 1999, Legislative Hearing. Mr. Magner stated he will need something in writing to give to Don Wagner in order to release permits without a bond posted. Also, a time line is needed for the permits because a general permit is for six months. Mr. Strathman responded he will supply a memo to Don Wagner. Mr Roberts added that the inside of the building has been gutted, and new shee�ock has been added along with a new electrical system and new plumbing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1328 Minnehaha Avenue West. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (No one appeared representing the properiy.) Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since August 1998. It is owned by the secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Five suuimaty abatement orders have been issued to remove refuse, secure the dwelling, and cut tall grass. As of this date, the progerty remains in a condition that comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative code. The vacant building fees and real estate taxes aze paid. A code compliance inspection was done in April. The repairs are estimated to be $40,000. The estimated cost to demolish, $7,000 to $8,000. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the order. Summary Abatement for 1183 Arkwright Street; Donald Drouin, Jr. (J9907A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Guy Wiilits stated this has been an ongoing issue all suuiuier. Some vehicles orders were appealed in June. There were also orders to remove gazbage and ta11 grass. After a number of appeals and a number of conversations with the proper[y owner, gazbage was removed on 8-16- 99 for $293. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Heinrich stated the last time she was here, they received an eatension to 9-1-99. �� J` LEGISLATIVE HEARING NIINUT'ES OF 10-19-99 Page 5 Donald Drouin stated there was never any garbage in the yard, tall grass, nor rank plant growth. He wondered how the City justified going into someone's yazd and taking the lawn furniture. There were five tires and wheels taken that were far vehicles in the yazd. He was under the impression from lus meetiug on 7-6-99 that his deadline on this issue was 9-1-99. Ms. Heinrich stated everything was appealed even if it was not discussed on that day. Guy Willits reported the appellant was given until 9-1-99 to store vehicles only. All other violations were to be dealt with immediately. (Mr. Strathman reviewed the minutes from 6-1-99 and 7-6-99 regarding this property. He then viewed the videotape again.) Mr. Strathman asked is the property cleaned up now. Mr. Heinrich responded she understood everything on the outside has been cleaned up. Mr. Willits responded there aze interior and e�cterior orders out at this time. An inspection had been set up with Inspector Singerhouse, but he was refused entry. Mr. Drouin stated there was an empty Rubbermaid bin in the corner of the patio. There was no reason for that to be taken. The supposed yard waste was actually the compost pile. It had been there four years for making soil. Mr. Strathman stated the minutes from 6-1-99 indicate the only item being appealed here is the vehicle abatement. Mr. Drouin responded there were two appeals. Ms. Heinrich concurred. Upon looking at the minutes further, Mr. Strathman stated there are two appeals: the vehicle abatement order appeal was received on 5-21-99 and the yazd cleanup appeal was received on 6- 14-99. Both appeals were listed in the 7-6-99 minutes, but there is no conversation on anyone's part with regard to the cleanup abatement. Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment due to a procedural error. The discussion regarding the cleanup was not reflected in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 11:19 p.m. rrn ORIGINAL Presented By Green Sheet # �� 3 RESOLUTION CITY OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA Referred To Council File # � - � 3 � Committee: Date 43 VJF�,REAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement has requested the City Council to hold public hearings to consider the advisability and necessity of oxdering the repair or wrecking and removal of a three-story, wood frame struchue located on property hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Property" and commonly known as 419 Sherbutne Avenue. This properry is legally described as follows, to wit: Lot 36, Block 16, Smith's Subdivision of Stinson's Division of the NW l/4 of Section 36, Township 29, Range 23. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 WfIEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and 'mformation obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before February 17, 1999, the following are the now known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Property: Tracy D. & Christine V. Sylvis, 1670 Beech Street, Saint Paul, MN 55 1 06-491 1; Tracy D. & Cl�ristine V. Sylvis, 1316 South Everett Street, Stillwater, MN 55082-5941; Clay Masson, 765 Reaney Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55106; Minne - Mine Credit Union, 1815 Suburban Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55ll 9; Mr. & Mrs. Chester Pexkowitz, 7370 Concerto Curve NE, Fridley, MN 55432 WHEREAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code an order identified as an"Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s)" dated April Z0, 1999; and WIIEREA5, this order informed the then irnown interested or responsibie parties that the structure located on the Subject Properry is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and WI�REAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or demolish the structure located on the Subject Property by May 20, 1999; and WHEREAS, the enforcement officer has posted a placard on the Subject Property declaring this building(s} to constitute a nuisance condition; subject to demolition; and WHEREAS, this nuisance condition has not been corrected and Division of Code Enforcement requested that the City Clerk schedule public hearings before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the City Council and the Saint Paul City Council; and WHEREAS, the interested and responsible parties have been served notice in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, of the time, date, place and purpose of the public hearings; and 4R -'7 3 l 1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City Council on 2 Tuesday, July 20, 1999 to heaz testimony and evidence, and after receiving testiznony and evidence, 3 made the recommendation to approve the request to order the interested or responsible parties to make 4 the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove 5 its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating tlus structure in accordance with all applicable 6 codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the structure in accordance 7 with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the structure to be 8 completed within fifteen (I S) days after the date of the Council Hearing; and 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, Ju1y 28, 1999 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was considered by the Council; now therefore BE IT RE50LVED, that based upon the testnnony and evidence presented at the above refetenced public hearings, the Saint Paul City Council hereby adopts the following Findings and Order concerning the Subject Property at 419 Sherburne Avenue: That the Subject Property comprises a nuisance condition as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 45. 2. G. � That the costs of demolition and xemoval of this building(s) is estimated to exceed three thousand dollars ($3,000.00). That there now exists and has existed multiple Housing or Building code violations at the Subject Properry. That an Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) was sent to the then known responsible parties to correct the deficiencies or to demolish and remove the building(s). That the deficiencies causing this nuisance condition have not been corrected. That Division of Code Enforcement has posted a placard on the Subject Property which declares it to be a nuisance condition subject to demolition. That this building has been routinely monitored by the Citizen Service Offices, Division of Code Enforcement, VacantlNuisance Buildings. 8. That the known interested parties and owners are as previously stated in this resolution and that the notification requirements of Chapter 45 have been fulfilled. ORDER The Saint Paul City Council hereby makes the following order: The above referenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating this structure and correcting all deficiencies as prescribed in the above referenced Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) in accordance with all applicabie codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the structure in accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition and removal of the structure must be completed within fifteen (15) days days after the date of the Council Hearing. ORIG{NAL q�-'131 1 2. If the above corrective action is not completed within this period of time the Citizen Service 2 Office, Division of Code Enforcement is hereby authorized to take whatever steps are necessary 3 to demolish and remove this structure, fill the site and charge the costs incurred against the 4 Subject Properry pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paui Legislative Code. 5 9 10 11 12 4. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the City of Saint Paul, all personal property or fixtures of any kind which interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed from the properiy by the responsible parties by the end of this time period. If a11 personal property is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and dispose of such property as provided by law. It is fi�rther ordered, that a copy of this resolution be mailed to the owners and interested parties in accordance with Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. Requested by Department of: Citize Ser ' e ice� C de Enforcement B . S Aaoptea bY coun��i: nate ��,��7 \9`�`\ —�-- Adoption Certified by Council Secretary Form Ap�roved by City Attorney � Approved by r: Date /"��" � ��`t� By: i�iVVl- B ' Approved by Mayor for Submission to Cc — . � Warren R Bostrom 266-8439 � 'FOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES �ta -�� 1 GREEN SHEET No 61673 MltlallOSb MXIaIIDale 1 DF'�ARIYBRORFtTdt a1YCOIMCL �a„�.,,� � �«F.� �..�.��. ��.��.�a �..,��.m.. � (CLIP ALL LO ATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) City Councii to pass this resolution which will order the owner(s) to remove or repair the referenced building(s). If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. The subject property is located at 419 Sherburne Avenue. PLANNING COMMISSION CIB CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Has thic persoNfim everworketl untler a contrec[ forfhic departmeM? YES NO Hes this P�eoNfirtn ever been a dry empbyee4 YES NO Do� this persoNfirm poscess a sidll not rwrtnallYW� bY any cuttent city employeel Y�S ' NO Is ihie � a targHetl vendoR YES � NO yain ail vrs answe�s on seoa�ate sheM aM atlach to mcen sheet This building(s) is a nuisance building(s) as defined in Chapter 45 and a vacant building as defined in Chapter 43 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. The owners, interested parties and responsible parties known to the Enforcement Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue by May 20, 1999, and have failed to comply with those ordexs. �,w � � f*' F" ` g'� � � � �f]VANTACFSIFAPPROVF� .. • �- �- J 7�� t ead s 4 U'v!b The City wili eluninate a nuisance. s a,�i re s �� '�'��'-�"�'�'�`� �"��,.��"�� The City will spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs will be assessed to the property, A nuisance condirion will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community. AMOUNTOFTRANSACTIONS $10,000 - $11,000 SOURCE Nuisance Housing Abatement (��M COST/REVENUE BUDQEfED IqRCLE ONt� YE acrnmNU�eER 33261 � COUnc� Research Center �,�_�3� REPORT LEGISLATIVE HEARING Date: August 10, 1999 Time: lO:Od a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevard Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer _,�L 1. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the buiiding at 419 Sherburne Avenue. �1 If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99? Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the October 19 Legislative Hearing. 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. rrri REPORT Date: October 19, 1999 Time: 10:00 am. Place: Room 33Q City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer 1. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 8-10-99) Gerry Sttatlunan recommended approval. 2. Sununary Abatement for 917 Euclid Street; Clifford Willie. (J9967A) (I,aid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $148 plus the $40 service fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $188. Summary Abatement for 1895 Maenolia Avenue East; Bruce and Holly Zschokke. (J9906A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1089 Marshall Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 16, 19:s?, Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1328 M:nnehaha Avenue West. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. 6. � Summary Abatement for 1183 Arkwri¢ht Street; Donald Drouin, Jr. (J9407A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. rtn �t9-'1 �1 NIINi7TES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEt1RING Tuesday, August 10, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislarive Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:01 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votei, Code Enforcement Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. {Laid over from 7-20-49} Gerry Stratluuan stated on 7uly 20 there were questions about Bee Vue getting control of the ProP�S'• Bee Vue appeazed and stated he is in the process of foreclosing on the property. It wi11 take another eight weeks before he can get control of it. The tases and vacant building fee have been paid. He is not the fee owner so he cannot enter the properry nor can he post bond. The building is not occupied. Gerry Strathman asked is he taking care of the exterior. Mr. Vue responded he does not know if he can do that because he is not the owner. Chuck Votel responded the property has not been a problem. An inspector was there a week ago; the building was secured and the grass was cut. Any issues with giving Mr. Vue a couple of months, asked Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded no, but exterior maintenance should be maintained, such as cutting the g�ass, picking up gazbage, and making sure the property is secure. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over Chis matter to the October 14 Legislative Hearing on condition that Bee Vue keeps the property exterior maintained and secure. Resolufion ordering the owner ta remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buxen Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99} Gerry Strathman stated this was laid over from July 20. He asked where the matter is today. Dwayne and Joy Albrecht appeazed. Mr. Albrecht stated he was wnder the imptession that once the property was removed under the selective clearance process, the Albrechts wouid have control of the lot. The Albrechts found out the City would take control of the properry and pays out at a pre-determined aznount. Mr. Albrecht was debating whether to go through the selective cleazance process. aq-��1 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 8-10-99 Page 2 Gerry Strathman asked how long it will take to sort this out. Mr. Albrecht responded as long as it takes to find out what the City is willing to pay. Sally Peterson reported tide work needs to be done on the properiy, and the Albrechts will need to get power of attomey. It is unknown what the City will pay; however, the City is going through the selective clearance paperwork. David Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Corporation (H-MARC), appeared and stated they would like to see selective clearance go through. H-MARC would then purchase the land from the City. The owner then gets the value of the property. Done a different way, a new owner will take on the fee for the demolition. Ts a few weeks an issue, asked Mr. Strathman. Chuck Votel responded he does not think so. Also, if Code Enforcement demolished the properiy as a nuisance removal, the foundarion a foot below grade would be left in the ground. With selective clearance, the entire foundation is removed, wkrich makes the lot more suitable for building. The properry is being secured and maintained on the outside. Sa11y Petezson responded selective clearance needs two weeks. Cserry Strathxnan recommended ]aying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 a.m. rrn REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall I S West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislafive Hearing Officer 1. Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Chazles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) ' Cserry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. 2. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File 79903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �Lq 3. Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and a71 of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private properry during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Chazles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Sirathman recommended approvai of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $4Q administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $ i 5Q. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. a�-��t LEGISLATIVE HEARING REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1068 Ielehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolurion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolurion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner faiis to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. nn �� MINUTES OF Tf� LEGI5LATTVE HEARING Tuesday, July 20, 1999 �� . Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer T4ie meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; C:uy VJillits, Code Enforcement Snmmary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on March 29, 1999, to remove garbage, rubbish, fiuniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, etc. The work was done by Parks and Recreation on April 9 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeared and stated a lot of trash was on the lot, but she cleaned up much of it. Gerry Strathman stated all he saw in the videotape was brush. The owner must have done ea�tensive cieaning. Mr. Willits concurred. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $295 to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reportsd this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeared and stated he got a call in the morning that a house had exploded from naturai gas. He feels the board up fee is excessive. (Mr. DeRusha was shown the biil.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boarding company. The reason 3t is costly is because tbe company has to respond isnmediately whenever the police or fire departrnent calls them. The police and fire departments cannot leave a building unsecured. Mr. Strathman agrees the fee is high, but it is what the City is being chazged for the kind of service the City has to have. It should be covered by the insurance company because it is related to the accident. Mr. DeRusha responded he did not know the amount to bili, and today's hearing is after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 ��_��\ Page 2 ' commercial rate of $13.50. This fee is $1,490, wlrich is $210 an hour. He has no control over this tragedy, and Northern States Power (NSP) says they are not taking any responsibility for it. Mr. Strathman asked how the contractors aze selected. Chuck Votel responded these contracts aze put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a lisY of known contractors that aze registered with the City. The contractor has to be on ca1124 hours a day and be prepared to do this work. They usually go with the lowest bidder, which is what was done in this case. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File 39904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and ali of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J4404A) Larry and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeared and stated they saw the cieanup. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on May 7, 1999, to remove gazbage. The work was done by Parks and Recreation on May 20 for a fee of $220.50. (A videotape was shown.) He 3s puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with the Fletchers on May 13, and it was still there on May 20, stated Mr. Strathman. Ms. Fletcher responded it was discussed with the owners and not them. It was inside the yazd, stated Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Strathman explained trash cannot be stored outside in Saint Paul. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing the notice was given and the work was done. The assessment will be to the property owner. 408 Charles Avenue (File J99Q2V) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeared representing the properry. Gerry Strathman recommended appzoval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� Daniel Feess, owner, appeared. �� 3� Page 3 Guy Willits reported orders were posted on October 21, 1998, and mailed on October 22 to remove an abandoned vehicle with no license plates, hood, nor engine. The vehicle was removed on November 17 for a total of $570.90. It was auctioned for $60, which has been subtracted from the assessment fee. (Photographs were presented and later returned.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded he did not have that information. Chuck Votel added that the impound lot sends notice to the owner and lien holders. Mr. Feess stated his tenant lives downstairs. He kept telling his tenant to remove the vehicle. When the vehicle was gone, Mr. Feess assumed the tenant removed it. The vehicle has nothing to do with Mr. Feess. If it is on your propezty, then you are responsible for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathman asked for an estimate of how much is the storage. Mr. Willits responded the majority is storage. Mr. Votel responded a routine tow is about $125. The property has a history of notices, stated Mr. Willits. Mr. Feess responded renters leave things outside and don't ciean up after themselves. He tries to stay on top of it, but his job requires him to be out of town three months at a time. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $570.90 to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 13 and 2Q 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 5 for $550. This is a vacant lot. (A videotape was shown. A worker says on the videotape that a fence was not seen.) Rosita Meehan and Kathleen Kieser, 1227 Seventh Street West, appeazed and said they had just cut down their tree plus the neighbor's tree. They took a11 the heavy stuff away. It was ��=1�� LEGTSLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. They missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in their pile of mail. When the brush was gone, they assumed the company had taken it away. He is amazed at the cost of $550, stated Gerry Strathman. Mr. Willits responded he did not see on the videotape any of the items, except for the brush. The assessment does seem high. Gerry Suathman recommended reducing the assessment from $550 to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. The notice was sent as required; however, the charge does seem excessive in view of the work that was done. 2106 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Sam Czaplewski, fee owner, appeared and stated his son lives at this properry. Guy Willits reported orders were maited on April 8, 1994, to remove a refrigerator, mattresses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old feneing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Parks and Recreation did the work on Apri123 for a total of $293. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Czaplewski stated the videotape is a lie because the workers did not clean up anything except for the refrigerator. He has already been to court on this, and the judge dismissed the case. (The videotape was shown again.) The refrigerator was moved out while the kitchen floor was being replaced, stated Mr. Czaplewski. He is going to have to hire an attomey £or this. He would like $1,200 retumed to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the carpeting. Mr. Czapiewski responded it was cleaned up. Mr. Strathman stated they took videotape that shows carpet present and then took more videotape that shows the carpet gone. Some of the videotape was taken after his tenants removed the items, stated Mr. Czaplewski. Mr. Strathman stated he does not believe the refrigerator was outside for two weeks while the floor was being repaired, nor does he believe the tenants cleaned up the couch or the carpet. The videotape is taken when they arrive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants are lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an ea�tension of rime for his attorney to handle ttus issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Strathman explained, a notice needs to be sent to him by noon on Thursday. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment because he does not find Mr. Czaplewski's story eredibie. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) LEGISLATIVE HEARING MII�IIJTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� No one appeazed representing the properry. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the properry. Gerry Sh�athman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeared. �1��3� Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fiuniture. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 18 for $295. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Favis stated the tenant is responsible for this. There were three people living there, and then there were about 15 people in the house. Since October 1998, Ms. Favis had been telling the tenants to move. The tenants say they would be homeless. Ms. Favis has asked for assistance from crime services to help the tenants. Crime services suggested she raise the rent. The tenants rely on social security. If Ms. Fauis filed for eviction in court, she would get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fi�ng the inside because the tenants clogged the toilet and there were problems with the ceiling. Ms. Favis told the tenants to leave because she is in trouble with Code Enforcement and they trashed the place. She will not file charges against them. She is already paying too much in taYes. Gerry Suathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw all the gazbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The properiy has to be painted. She is thinking about foreclosing on the property. Why wasn't it cleaned up when the notice was received, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Favis responded she wrote a letter to the tenant to remove the gazbage. They promised they would do it. (Mr. Willits presented photographs to Mr. Strathman. They were later rehuned.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LBGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF 7-20-99 1068 I�lebart Avenue (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment per Guy VJillits. c �-� ` Page 6 Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherbume Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this buiiding has been condexnned since March 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Christine Sylvis aze the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate ta�ces are due in the amount of $3,078.02. The estimated market value is $46,800; estimated cost to repair, $20,000; cost to demolish, $10,000 to $I 1,000. All interested parties have been notified. A. Vue appeazed on behalf ofhis brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this property. Bee Vue wrote a letter concerning what he intends to do with the property. (A. Vae handed Mr. Strathman a letter from Bee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs aze the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded they aze the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitled Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get control of this properry. A. Vue responded two weeks. It appeazs to be secured, said Mr. Strathman. Mr. Votel concurred. Mr. Votel added that in June the City issued two summary abatement notices to clean the yazd and cut the grass. Mr. Strathman stated it is in Bee Vue's best interest to take caze of the yazd. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner faffs to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votei reported this building has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The Ciry has issued three summary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the properLy. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated mazket value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 ��_ �3 � Page 7 Dave Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Cooperation (H-MARC), appeared and stated the house does need to come down. H-MARC is interested in talking with the owners about purchasing the properry with the intent to tear the house down and build a new one. Jayne Strane and Dayne Albrecht appeazed. Mr. Albrecht stated the property belongs to his wife's mother who is not able to deal with this properry. There is a program called selective cleazance, which they applied for last year. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not warrant repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove or repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the properry. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the buiiding. Sally Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selective cleazance. The application was missing certain information such as the address and date. Now, a new application is being done. Ms. Albrecht responded she has not received a new application. Mr. Strathman stated he would like to see a city staff person work with the Albrechts and bring them to PED. In the meantime, the Albrechts may want to talk with H-MARC. He may have to deal with power of attorney, and he is not aware of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there are no any immediate issues with this property. Gerry Suathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional time to deal with this property. Hopefully, there will be a pian worked out by then. The meeting was adjourned at 1133 a.m. rrn , CITI7.EN SERVICE OFfICE Fred Owusu, Crty Clerk ��-�?31 DMSION OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCE4�N'C Wasren ft BOStrnm Pro�'am Manager '� �, 1 �l� SC�Lyl rAUL NuiranceBuildingCodeEnforce�nen[ Norm Colemars, Mayor 1� W. Kellogg Blvd Rm. 190 Saint Paul, e4LV SSIO2 � 7une 25, 1999 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Council President and Members of the City Council ?el: 6i1-?66-8-150 Faz: 651-266-3426 Citizen Service Office, Vacant/Nuisance Buildings Enforcement Division has requested the City Council schedule public hearings to consider a resolution ordering the repair or removal of the nuisance building(s) located at: 419 Sherburne Avenue The City Council has scheduled the date of these hearings as follows: LegislaYive 13earing - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 City Council Hearing - Wednesday, July 28, 1999 The owners and responsible parties of record are: Name and Last Known Address Tracy D. & Christine V. Sylvis 1670 Beech Street Saint Paul, tVII�1 5�106-4911 Tracy D. & Christlne V. Sylvis li 16 South Everett Street Stillwater, MN »082-5941 Clay Maxson 765 Reaney Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55106 Minne - Mine Credit Union 181� SuburbanAvenue Maplewood, N1N 55119 Intere;t Fee Owner Fee Owner �a:.��ll;±} o.�,S`G'uCG2? l�',�'i¢�?' J�� Interested Pam Mortgagee 419 Sherbume Avenue June 25, 1999 Pa�e 2 Name and Last Known Address Interest Mr. & Mrs. Chester Perkowitz 7370 Concerto Curve NE Fridley, MN 55432 The le�al description of this property is: Fee Owner Lot 36, Block 16, Smith's Subdivision of Stinson's Division of the NW 1/4 of Section 36, Township 29, Range 23. �� -� 3 ( Division of Code Enforcement has declared this building(s) to constitute a"miisance" as defined by Legislative Code, Chapter 45. Division of Code Enforcement has issued an order to the then known responsible pazties to eliminate this miisance condition by correctin� the deficiencies or by razing and removing this buildin�(s). Inasmuch as this Order to Abate has not been complied with the nuisance condition remains unabafed, the community continues to suffer the blighting influence of this property. It is the recommendation of the Division of Code Enforcement that the City Comlcil pass a resolution ordering the responsible parties to either repair, or demolish and remove this buildin� in a timely manner, and failing that, authorize the Division of Code Enforcement to proceed to demolition and removal, and to assess the costs incurred a�ainst the real estate as a special assessment to be collected in the same manner as taxes. � � ..�� z ,, Steve Majner Vacant Buildings Supervisor Aivision of Code Enforcement Citizen Service Office SM:mt cc: Frank Ber�, Buildin� Inspection and Design Rachel Young, Ciry Attomeys Office Nancy Anderson, Assistant Secxetary to the Council Steve Zaccard, Fire Mazshall Paul Mordorski, PED-Housin� D'avision MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, October 19,1999 Room 330 City Hall Gerry Strathman, L,egislative Hearing Officer �� ` �3 - STAFF PRESEI�'T: Steve Magner, Code Enforcement; Guy VJillits, Code Enforcement Gerry Strathman called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m. � Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 8-10-99) (No one appeazed representing this property.) Steve Magner reported this property was laid over based on a request from Bee Vue who wanted to straighten out ownership of the building. To Mr. Magner's knowledge, that has not been done. Gerry Strathxnan recommended approval of the resolution citing no one is here representing the properry and there is no further information on the property. Summary Abatement for 917 Euclid Street; Clifford Willie. (J9907A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Floyd L3nruh, co-owner with Clifford Willie, appeared. (A videotape was shown. Guy Willits supplied paperwork to Gerry Strathman.) Mr. Unruh stated he hired someone to break up a davenport and put it in the dumpster along with other materials that were there. Someone threw it off the dumpster saying the davenport could not be hauled away. Mr. Unruh called azound to see where he could take it; in the meantime, the City took it. The videotape shows materials plus other items, such as a washer; however, there has never been a washer or dryer on the properiy. It may have come from the renter next door. Mr. Unruh does not deny the properry was cleaned up, but he feels the chazge is excessive. Mr. Strathman agreed the charge is high, but it is expensive for the City to do it and it is not a business the City is in. It is cleaz Mr. t3nruh was notified and the City did the cleanup. Mr. Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded the one hour charge is $210 for the crew, one yard of refuse for $18, and one appliance for $25. Mr. Strathman stated the $18 and $25 are actual costs Mr. Unruh would have had to pay himself; however, the hour charge is a little high. ��=�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINTJTES OF 10-19-99 Page 2 Gerry Stratlunan recommended reducing the hour charge by half which makes it $105, plus the one yard of refuse for $18, the appliance for $25, plus the $40 service fee, wluch brings the assessment to a total of $188. Summary Abatement for 1895 Magnolia Avenue East; Bruce and Holly Zschokke. (J9906A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) The following appeared: Holly Zschokke, former owner; Floyd Unruh, realtor; Hector Ponce de Leon, present owner. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on 6-24-99 and posted on the door to remove all rubbish from porch area, greenhouse area, and cut tail grass. The comply date was 6-29-99. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on 7-12-99 for $1,155. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Zschokke stated the future owners said they would clean up the grass, and Ms. Zschokke had someone clean up the patio. She assumed the grass was taken care of, but she could see from the videotape the grass did not look good. However, the issue is that items were taken that the future owner wanted to purchase. Mr. Strathman stated he didn't see anything on the videotape except for old broken appliances and rires. Ms. Zschokke responded lawn mowers were taken, and there were items in the greenhouse that the owner wanted to use. Mr. Unruh stated his company Unruh Realty sold the property. The buyer, Mr. de Leon, agreed to cut the grass and was awaze of what was in the greenhouse. The lawn mowers were workable, and the only thing off of them was the grass catcher. Some items were gone from the greenhouse that were used for the operation of opening and closing the windows: geazs, handles, rods. The City had no right to go into the greenhouse. When the notice was received, Mr. Unruh contacted the Ciry and told them the property was sold and the buyer would take the properry as is. Mr. de Leon stated the reason the grass was not cut very well is because it was so long and the blade broke on his lawn mower. Mr. Willits stated Maynard Vinge spoke to Mr. Unruh at least three times before the cleaning took piace. Mr. Vinge also spoke to Mr. de Leon on 7-3-99. A total of 17 days was given before the work was done. Mr. Strathman stated there are two issues here. 1) The City did act properly in terms of doing the abatement because the notification was proper and more than reasonable time was given for the owner to make the corrections. It also appeazed the City did a great deal of work. 2) If the City ct� �� \ LEGISLATIVE FiEARING MINUTES OF 10-19-99 Page 3 took property that should not have been taken, it cannot be resolved here. A claim would need to be filed against the City for the value of the tools that aze missing. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Resolution ordering the owaer to remove or repair the building at 1089 Marshall Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Ben Roberts, owner, appeazed. Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since December 1991. There have been 17 summary abatements issued on this properiy to remove refuse, secure the building, remove gr�ti, and cut tall grass. The City has had to board the building against trespass. The vacant building fees and real estate taxes are paid. Taxation has placed an estimated mazket value of $18,900 on the property and the repair costs are estimated at $20,000. There is no current code inspection. A bond was posted and forfeited. Mr. Roberts stated he talked to Reneta Weiss and the information he received was that no new permits were required to complete the work. When bonds are forfeited, responded Mr. Magner, the permits expire, and Don Wagner will not issue a code compliance certificate until a new bond is posted and permits are issued. The building permit was issued on 2-14-95. There are six months on the permits under a bond and another six months can be granted. The bonds were forfeited 2-16-96. Mr. Roberts stated the building is neaz completion. He met with two inspectors there and told them he hoped to get it ready in 60 days, but it may be completed by the end of the month. He thought all he had to do is call Don Wagner and get a code compliance inspection. The electrical work is scheduled to be finished, and a permit is going to be pulled on that. Everything is finished on the inside of all the rooms. It looks like all this work was done without permits, stated NIr. Strathman. Mr. Roberts responded it was his impression that the building permits stood. Mr. Roberts stated he does not think the City put any boazds on the house. He received a notice that it needed to be secured and Mr. Roberts did that. Mr. Strathman responded the summary abatements are peripheral. The City has begun the process to order this building removed or repaired within 15 days. It sounds like work has been going on for three yeazs without benefit of permits. On the other hand, the owner feels the building is ready for occupancy so it is absurd to talk about teazing it down. The property needs to be inspected to see if it is ready for occupancy. A code compliance inspection is needed. �1�= t�3 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 10-19-99 � Steve Magner eaplained if a code compliance inspection is needed, it is a matter of obtaining a new $2,000 bond, a building permit, electrical permit, completing those repairs, and calling Don Wagner for an inspection. Some of this work was done under permits, but a new bond and pemut is needed to finish the repairs. Mr. Roberts stated he does not have $2,000 to post a bond. He was planning to have a code compliance inspection done by the end of this month. If there aze things Mr. Wagner says need to be done, Mr. Roberts will need time to do those. Gerry Strathtnan recommended laying over to the November 16, 1999, Legislative Hearing. Mr. Magner stated he will need something in writing to give to Don Wagner in order to release permits without a bond posted. Also, a time line is needed for the permits because a general permit is for six months. Mr. Strathman responded he will supply a memo to Don Wagner. Mr Roberts added that the inside of the building has been gutted, and new shee�ock has been added along with a new electrical system and new plumbing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1328 Minnehaha Avenue West. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (No one appeared representing the properiy.) Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since August 1998. It is owned by the secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Five suuimaty abatement orders have been issued to remove refuse, secure the dwelling, and cut tall grass. As of this date, the progerty remains in a condition that comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative code. The vacant building fees and real estate taxes aze paid. A code compliance inspection was done in April. The repairs are estimated to be $40,000. The estimated cost to demolish, $7,000 to $8,000. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the order. Summary Abatement for 1183 Arkwright Street; Donald Drouin, Jr. (J9907A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Guy Wiilits stated this has been an ongoing issue all suuiuier. Some vehicles orders were appealed in June. There were also orders to remove gazbage and ta11 grass. After a number of appeals and a number of conversations with the proper[y owner, gazbage was removed on 8-16- 99 for $293. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Heinrich stated the last time she was here, they received an eatension to 9-1-99. �� J` LEGISLATIVE HEARING NIINUT'ES OF 10-19-99 Page 5 Donald Drouin stated there was never any garbage in the yard, tall grass, nor rank plant growth. He wondered how the City justified going into someone's yazd and taking the lawn furniture. There were five tires and wheels taken that were far vehicles in the yazd. He was under the impression from lus meetiug on 7-6-99 that his deadline on this issue was 9-1-99. Ms. Heinrich stated everything was appealed even if it was not discussed on that day. Guy Willits reported the appellant was given until 9-1-99 to store vehicles only. All other violations were to be dealt with immediately. (Mr. Strathman reviewed the minutes from 6-1-99 and 7-6-99 regarding this property. He then viewed the videotape again.) Mr. Strathman asked is the property cleaned up now. Mr. Heinrich responded she understood everything on the outside has been cleaned up. Mr. Willits responded there aze interior and e�cterior orders out at this time. An inspection had been set up with Inspector Singerhouse, but he was refused entry. Mr. Drouin stated there was an empty Rubbermaid bin in the corner of the patio. There was no reason for that to be taken. The supposed yard waste was actually the compost pile. It had been there four years for making soil. Mr. Strathman stated the minutes from 6-1-99 indicate the only item being appealed here is the vehicle abatement. Mr. Drouin responded there were two appeals. Ms. Heinrich concurred. Upon looking at the minutes further, Mr. Strathman stated there are two appeals: the vehicle abatement order appeal was received on 5-21-99 and the yazd cleanup appeal was received on 6- 14-99. Both appeals were listed in the 7-6-99 minutes, but there is no conversation on anyone's part with regard to the cleanup abatement. Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment due to a procedural error. The discussion regarding the cleanup was not reflected in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 11:19 p.m. rrn ORIGINAL Presented By Green Sheet # �� 3 RESOLUTION CITY OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA Referred To Council File # � - � 3 � Committee: Date 43 VJF�,REAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement has requested the City Council to hold public hearings to consider the advisability and necessity of oxdering the repair or wrecking and removal of a three-story, wood frame struchue located on property hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Property" and commonly known as 419 Sherbutne Avenue. This properry is legally described as follows, to wit: Lot 36, Block 16, Smith's Subdivision of Stinson's Division of the NW l/4 of Section 36, Township 29, Range 23. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 WfIEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and 'mformation obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before February 17, 1999, the following are the now known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Property: Tracy D. & Christine V. Sylvis, 1670 Beech Street, Saint Paul, MN 55 1 06-491 1; Tracy D. & Cl�ristine V. Sylvis, 1316 South Everett Street, Stillwater, MN 55082-5941; Clay Masson, 765 Reaney Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55106; Minne - Mine Credit Union, 1815 Suburban Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55ll 9; Mr. & Mrs. Chester Pexkowitz, 7370 Concerto Curve NE, Fridley, MN 55432 WHEREAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code an order identified as an"Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s)" dated April Z0, 1999; and WIIEREA5, this order informed the then irnown interested or responsibie parties that the structure located on the Subject Properry is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and WI�REAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or demolish the structure located on the Subject Property by May 20, 1999; and WHEREAS, the enforcement officer has posted a placard on the Subject Property declaring this building(s} to constitute a nuisance condition; subject to demolition; and WHEREAS, this nuisance condition has not been corrected and Division of Code Enforcement requested that the City Clerk schedule public hearings before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the City Council and the Saint Paul City Council; and WHEREAS, the interested and responsible parties have been served notice in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, of the time, date, place and purpose of the public hearings; and 4R -'7 3 l 1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City Council on 2 Tuesday, July 20, 1999 to heaz testimony and evidence, and after receiving testiznony and evidence, 3 made the recommendation to approve the request to order the interested or responsible parties to make 4 the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove 5 its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating tlus structure in accordance with all applicable 6 codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the structure in accordance 7 with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the structure to be 8 completed within fifteen (I S) days after the date of the Council Hearing; and 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, Ju1y 28, 1999 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was considered by the Council; now therefore BE IT RE50LVED, that based upon the testnnony and evidence presented at the above refetenced public hearings, the Saint Paul City Council hereby adopts the following Findings and Order concerning the Subject Property at 419 Sherburne Avenue: That the Subject Property comprises a nuisance condition as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 45. 2. G. � That the costs of demolition and xemoval of this building(s) is estimated to exceed three thousand dollars ($3,000.00). That there now exists and has existed multiple Housing or Building code violations at the Subject Properry. That an Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) was sent to the then known responsible parties to correct the deficiencies or to demolish and remove the building(s). That the deficiencies causing this nuisance condition have not been corrected. That Division of Code Enforcement has posted a placard on the Subject Property which declares it to be a nuisance condition subject to demolition. That this building has been routinely monitored by the Citizen Service Offices, Division of Code Enforcement, VacantlNuisance Buildings. 8. That the known interested parties and owners are as previously stated in this resolution and that the notification requirements of Chapter 45 have been fulfilled. ORDER The Saint Paul City Council hereby makes the following order: The above referenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating this structure and correcting all deficiencies as prescribed in the above referenced Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) in accordance with all applicabie codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the structure in accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition and removal of the structure must be completed within fifteen (15) days days after the date of the Council Hearing. ORIG{NAL q�-'131 1 2. If the above corrective action is not completed within this period of time the Citizen Service 2 Office, Division of Code Enforcement is hereby authorized to take whatever steps are necessary 3 to demolish and remove this structure, fill the site and charge the costs incurred against the 4 Subject Properry pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paui Legislative Code. 5 9 10 11 12 4. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the City of Saint Paul, all personal property or fixtures of any kind which interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed from the properiy by the responsible parties by the end of this time period. If a11 personal property is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and dispose of such property as provided by law. It is fi�rther ordered, that a copy of this resolution be mailed to the owners and interested parties in accordance with Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. Requested by Department of: Citize Ser ' e ice� C de Enforcement B . S Aaoptea bY coun��i: nate ��,��7 \9`�`\ —�-- Adoption Certified by Council Secretary Form Ap�roved by City Attorney � Approved by r: Date /"��" � ��`t� By: i�iVVl- B ' Approved by Mayor for Submission to Cc — . � Warren R Bostrom 266-8439 � 'FOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES �ta -�� 1 GREEN SHEET No 61673 MltlallOSb MXIaIIDale 1 DF'�ARIYBRORFtTdt a1YCOIMCL �a„�.,,� � �«F.� �..�.��. ��.��.�a �..,��.m.. � (CLIP ALL LO ATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) City Councii to pass this resolution which will order the owner(s) to remove or repair the referenced building(s). If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. The subject property is located at 419 Sherburne Avenue. PLANNING COMMISSION CIB CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Has thic persoNfim everworketl untler a contrec[ forfhic departmeM? YES NO Hes this P�eoNfirtn ever been a dry empbyee4 YES NO Do� this persoNfirm poscess a sidll not rwrtnallYW� bY any cuttent city employeel Y�S ' NO Is ihie � a targHetl vendoR YES � NO yain ail vrs answe�s on seoa�ate sheM aM atlach to mcen sheet This building(s) is a nuisance building(s) as defined in Chapter 45 and a vacant building as defined in Chapter 43 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. The owners, interested parties and responsible parties known to the Enforcement Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue by May 20, 1999, and have failed to comply with those ordexs. �,w � � f*' F" ` g'� � � � �f]VANTACFSIFAPPROVF� .. • �- �- J 7�� t ead s 4 U'v!b The City wili eluninate a nuisance. s a,�i re s �� '�'��'-�"�'�'�`� �"��,.��"�� The City will spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs will be assessed to the property, A nuisance condirion will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community. AMOUNTOFTRANSACTIONS $10,000 - $11,000 SOURCE Nuisance Housing Abatement (��M COST/REVENUE BUDQEfED IqRCLE ONt� YE acrnmNU�eER 33261 � COUnc� Research Center �,�_�3� REPORT LEGISLATIVE HEARING Date: August 10, 1999 Time: lO:Od a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevard Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer _,�L 1. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the buiiding at 419 Sherburne Avenue. �1 If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99? Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the October 19 Legislative Hearing. 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. rrri REPORT Date: October 19, 1999 Time: 10:00 am. Place: Room 33Q City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer 1. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 8-10-99) Gerry Sttatlunan recommended approval. 2. Sununary Abatement for 917 Euclid Street; Clifford Willie. (J9967A) (I,aid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $148 plus the $40 service fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $188. Summary Abatement for 1895 Maenolia Avenue East; Bruce and Holly Zschokke. (J9906A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1089 Marshall Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 16, 19:s?, Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1328 M:nnehaha Avenue West. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. 6. � Summary Abatement for 1183 Arkwri¢ht Street; Donald Drouin, Jr. (J9407A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. rtn �t9-'1 �1 NIINi7TES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEt1RING Tuesday, August 10, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislarive Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:01 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votei, Code Enforcement Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. {Laid over from 7-20-49} Gerry Stratluuan stated on 7uly 20 there were questions about Bee Vue getting control of the ProP�S'• Bee Vue appeazed and stated he is in the process of foreclosing on the property. It wi11 take another eight weeks before he can get control of it. The tases and vacant building fee have been paid. He is not the fee owner so he cannot enter the properry nor can he post bond. The building is not occupied. Gerry Strathman asked is he taking care of the exterior. Mr. Vue responded he does not know if he can do that because he is not the owner. Chuck Votel responded the property has not been a problem. An inspector was there a week ago; the building was secured and the grass was cut. Any issues with giving Mr. Vue a couple of months, asked Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded no, but exterior maintenance should be maintained, such as cutting the g�ass, picking up gazbage, and making sure the property is secure. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over Chis matter to the October 14 Legislative Hearing on condition that Bee Vue keeps the property exterior maintained and secure. Resolufion ordering the owner ta remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buxen Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99} Gerry Strathman stated this was laid over from July 20. He asked where the matter is today. Dwayne and Joy Albrecht appeazed. Mr. Albrecht stated he was wnder the imptession that once the property was removed under the selective clearance process, the Albrechts wouid have control of the lot. The Albrechts found out the City would take control of the properry and pays out at a pre-determined aznount. Mr. Albrecht was debating whether to go through the selective cleazance process. aq-��1 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 8-10-99 Page 2 Gerry Strathman asked how long it will take to sort this out. Mr. Albrecht responded as long as it takes to find out what the City is willing to pay. Sally Peterson reported tide work needs to be done on the properiy, and the Albrechts will need to get power of attomey. It is unknown what the City will pay; however, the City is going through the selective clearance paperwork. David Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Corporation (H-MARC), appeared and stated they would like to see selective clearance go through. H-MARC would then purchase the land from the City. The owner then gets the value of the property. Done a different way, a new owner will take on the fee for the demolition. Ts a few weeks an issue, asked Mr. Strathman. Chuck Votel responded he does not think so. Also, if Code Enforcement demolished the properiy as a nuisance removal, the foundarion a foot below grade would be left in the ground. With selective clearance, the entire foundation is removed, wkrich makes the lot more suitable for building. The properry is being secured and maintained on the outside. Sa11y Petezson responded selective clearance needs two weeks. Cserry Strathxnan recommended ]aying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 a.m. rrn REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall I S West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislafive Hearing Officer 1. Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Chazles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) ' Cserry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. 2. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File 79903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �Lq 3. Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and a71 of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private properry during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Chazles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Sirathman recommended approvai of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $4Q administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $ i 5Q. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. a�-��t LEGISLATIVE HEARING REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1068 Ielehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolurion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolurion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner faiis to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. nn �� MINUTES OF Tf� LEGI5LATTVE HEARING Tuesday, July 20, 1999 �� . Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer T4ie meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; C:uy VJillits, Code Enforcement Snmmary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on March 29, 1999, to remove garbage, rubbish, fiuniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, etc. The work was done by Parks and Recreation on April 9 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeared and stated a lot of trash was on the lot, but she cleaned up much of it. Gerry Strathman stated all he saw in the videotape was brush. The owner must have done ea�tensive cieaning. Mr. Willits concurred. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $295 to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reportsd this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeared and stated he got a call in the morning that a house had exploded from naturai gas. He feels the board up fee is excessive. (Mr. DeRusha was shown the biil.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boarding company. The reason 3t is costly is because tbe company has to respond isnmediately whenever the police or fire departrnent calls them. The police and fire departments cannot leave a building unsecured. Mr. Strathman agrees the fee is high, but it is what the City is being chazged for the kind of service the City has to have. It should be covered by the insurance company because it is related to the accident. Mr. DeRusha responded he did not know the amount to bili, and today's hearing is after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 ��_��\ Page 2 ' commercial rate of $13.50. This fee is $1,490, wlrich is $210 an hour. He has no control over this tragedy, and Northern States Power (NSP) says they are not taking any responsibility for it. Mr. Strathman asked how the contractors aze selected. Chuck Votel responded these contracts aze put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a lisY of known contractors that aze registered with the City. The contractor has to be on ca1124 hours a day and be prepared to do this work. They usually go with the lowest bidder, which is what was done in this case. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File 39904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and ali of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J4404A) Larry and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeared and stated they saw the cieanup. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on May 7, 1999, to remove gazbage. The work was done by Parks and Recreation on May 20 for a fee of $220.50. (A videotape was shown.) He 3s puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with the Fletchers on May 13, and it was still there on May 20, stated Mr. Strathman. Ms. Fletcher responded it was discussed with the owners and not them. It was inside the yazd, stated Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Strathman explained trash cannot be stored outside in Saint Paul. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing the notice was given and the work was done. The assessment will be to the property owner. 408 Charles Avenue (File J99Q2V) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeared representing the properry. Gerry Strathman recommended appzoval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� Daniel Feess, owner, appeared. �� 3� Page 3 Guy Willits reported orders were posted on October 21, 1998, and mailed on October 22 to remove an abandoned vehicle with no license plates, hood, nor engine. The vehicle was removed on November 17 for a total of $570.90. It was auctioned for $60, which has been subtracted from the assessment fee. (Photographs were presented and later returned.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded he did not have that information. Chuck Votel added that the impound lot sends notice to the owner and lien holders. Mr. Feess stated his tenant lives downstairs. He kept telling his tenant to remove the vehicle. When the vehicle was gone, Mr. Feess assumed the tenant removed it. The vehicle has nothing to do with Mr. Feess. If it is on your propezty, then you are responsible for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathman asked for an estimate of how much is the storage. Mr. Willits responded the majority is storage. Mr. Votel responded a routine tow is about $125. The property has a history of notices, stated Mr. Willits. Mr. Feess responded renters leave things outside and don't ciean up after themselves. He tries to stay on top of it, but his job requires him to be out of town three months at a time. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $570.90 to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 13 and 2Q 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 5 for $550. This is a vacant lot. (A videotape was shown. A worker says on the videotape that a fence was not seen.) Rosita Meehan and Kathleen Kieser, 1227 Seventh Street West, appeazed and said they had just cut down their tree plus the neighbor's tree. They took a11 the heavy stuff away. It was ��=1�� LEGTSLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. They missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in their pile of mail. When the brush was gone, they assumed the company had taken it away. He is amazed at the cost of $550, stated Gerry Strathman. Mr. Willits responded he did not see on the videotape any of the items, except for the brush. The assessment does seem high. Gerry Suathman recommended reducing the assessment from $550 to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. The notice was sent as required; however, the charge does seem excessive in view of the work that was done. 2106 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Sam Czaplewski, fee owner, appeared and stated his son lives at this properry. Guy Willits reported orders were maited on April 8, 1994, to remove a refrigerator, mattresses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old feneing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Parks and Recreation did the work on Apri123 for a total of $293. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Czaplewski stated the videotape is a lie because the workers did not clean up anything except for the refrigerator. He has already been to court on this, and the judge dismissed the case. (The videotape was shown again.) The refrigerator was moved out while the kitchen floor was being replaced, stated Mr. Czaplewski. He is going to have to hire an attomey £or this. He would like $1,200 retumed to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the carpeting. Mr. Czapiewski responded it was cleaned up. Mr. Strathman stated they took videotape that shows carpet present and then took more videotape that shows the carpet gone. Some of the videotape was taken after his tenants removed the items, stated Mr. Czaplewski. Mr. Strathman stated he does not believe the refrigerator was outside for two weeks while the floor was being repaired, nor does he believe the tenants cleaned up the couch or the carpet. The videotape is taken when they arrive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants are lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an ea�tension of rime for his attorney to handle ttus issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Strathman explained, a notice needs to be sent to him by noon on Thursday. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment because he does not find Mr. Czaplewski's story eredibie. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) LEGISLATIVE HEARING MII�IIJTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� No one appeazed representing the properry. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the properry. Gerry Sh�athman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeared. �1��3� Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fiuniture. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 18 for $295. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Favis stated the tenant is responsible for this. There were three people living there, and then there were about 15 people in the house. Since October 1998, Ms. Favis had been telling the tenants to move. The tenants say they would be homeless. Ms. Favis has asked for assistance from crime services to help the tenants. Crime services suggested she raise the rent. The tenants rely on social security. If Ms. Fauis filed for eviction in court, she would get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fi�ng the inside because the tenants clogged the toilet and there were problems with the ceiling. Ms. Favis told the tenants to leave because she is in trouble with Code Enforcement and they trashed the place. She will not file charges against them. She is already paying too much in taYes. Gerry Suathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw all the gazbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The properiy has to be painted. She is thinking about foreclosing on the property. Why wasn't it cleaned up when the notice was received, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Favis responded she wrote a letter to the tenant to remove the gazbage. They promised they would do it. (Mr. Willits presented photographs to Mr. Strathman. They were later rehuned.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LBGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF 7-20-99 1068 I�lebart Avenue (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment per Guy VJillits. c �-� ` Page 6 Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherbume Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this buiiding has been condexnned since March 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Christine Sylvis aze the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate ta�ces are due in the amount of $3,078.02. The estimated market value is $46,800; estimated cost to repair, $20,000; cost to demolish, $10,000 to $I 1,000. All interested parties have been notified. A. Vue appeazed on behalf ofhis brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this property. Bee Vue wrote a letter concerning what he intends to do with the property. (A. Vae handed Mr. Strathman a letter from Bee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs aze the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded they aze the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitled Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get control of this properry. A. Vue responded two weeks. It appeazs to be secured, said Mr. Strathman. Mr. Votel concurred. Mr. Votel added that in June the City issued two summary abatement notices to clean the yazd and cut the grass. Mr. Strathman stated it is in Bee Vue's best interest to take caze of the yazd. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner faffs to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votei reported this building has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The Ciry has issued three summary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the properLy. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated mazket value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 ��_ �3 � Page 7 Dave Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Cooperation (H-MARC), appeared and stated the house does need to come down. H-MARC is interested in talking with the owners about purchasing the properry with the intent to tear the house down and build a new one. Jayne Strane and Dayne Albrecht appeazed. Mr. Albrecht stated the property belongs to his wife's mother who is not able to deal with this properry. There is a program called selective cleazance, which they applied for last year. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not warrant repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove or repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the properry. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the buiiding. Sally Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selective cleazance. The application was missing certain information such as the address and date. Now, a new application is being done. Ms. Albrecht responded she has not received a new application. Mr. Strathman stated he would like to see a city staff person work with the Albrechts and bring them to PED. In the meantime, the Albrechts may want to talk with H-MARC. He may have to deal with power of attorney, and he is not aware of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there are no any immediate issues with this property. Gerry Suathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional time to deal with this property. Hopefully, there will be a pian worked out by then. The meeting was adjourned at 1133 a.m. rrn , CITI7.EN SERVICE OFfICE Fred Owusu, Crty Clerk ��-�?31 DMSION OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCE4�N'C Wasren ft BOStrnm Pro�'am Manager '� �, 1 �l� SC�Lyl rAUL NuiranceBuildingCodeEnforce�nen[ Norm Colemars, Mayor 1� W. Kellogg Blvd Rm. 190 Saint Paul, e4LV SSIO2 � 7une 25, 1999 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Council President and Members of the City Council ?el: 6i1-?66-8-150 Faz: 651-266-3426 Citizen Service Office, Vacant/Nuisance Buildings Enforcement Division has requested the City Council schedule public hearings to consider a resolution ordering the repair or removal of the nuisance building(s) located at: 419 Sherburne Avenue The City Council has scheduled the date of these hearings as follows: LegislaYive 13earing - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 City Council Hearing - Wednesday, July 28, 1999 The owners and responsible parties of record are: Name and Last Known Address Tracy D. & Christine V. Sylvis 1670 Beech Street Saint Paul, tVII�1 5�106-4911 Tracy D. & Christlne V. Sylvis li 16 South Everett Street Stillwater, MN »082-5941 Clay Maxson 765 Reaney Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55106 Minne - Mine Credit Union 181� SuburbanAvenue Maplewood, N1N 55119 Intere;t Fee Owner Fee Owner �a:.��ll;±} o.�,S`G'uCG2? l�',�'i¢�?' J�� Interested Pam Mortgagee 419 Sherbume Avenue June 25, 1999 Pa�e 2 Name and Last Known Address Interest Mr. & Mrs. Chester Perkowitz 7370 Concerto Curve NE Fridley, MN 55432 The le�al description of this property is: Fee Owner Lot 36, Block 16, Smith's Subdivision of Stinson's Division of the NW 1/4 of Section 36, Township 29, Range 23. �� -� 3 ( Division of Code Enforcement has declared this building(s) to constitute a"miisance" as defined by Legislative Code, Chapter 45. Division of Code Enforcement has issued an order to the then known responsible pazties to eliminate this miisance condition by correctin� the deficiencies or by razing and removing this buildin�(s). Inasmuch as this Order to Abate has not been complied with the nuisance condition remains unabafed, the community continues to suffer the blighting influence of this property. It is the recommendation of the Division of Code Enforcement that the City Comlcil pass a resolution ordering the responsible parties to either repair, or demolish and remove this buildin� in a timely manner, and failing that, authorize the Division of Code Enforcement to proceed to demolition and removal, and to assess the costs incurred a�ainst the real estate as a special assessment to be collected in the same manner as taxes. � � ..�� z ,, Steve Majner Vacant Buildings Supervisor Aivision of Code Enforcement Citizen Service Office SM:mt cc: Frank Ber�, Buildin� Inspection and Design Rachel Young, Ciry Attomeys Office Nancy Anderson, Assistant Secxetary to the Council Steve Zaccard, Fire Mazshall Paul Mordorski, PED-Housin� D'avision MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, October 19,1999 Room 330 City Hall Gerry Strathman, L,egislative Hearing Officer �� ` �3 - STAFF PRESEI�'T: Steve Magner, Code Enforcement; Guy VJillits, Code Enforcement Gerry Strathman called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m. � Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 8-10-99) (No one appeazed representing this property.) Steve Magner reported this property was laid over based on a request from Bee Vue who wanted to straighten out ownership of the building. To Mr. Magner's knowledge, that has not been done. Gerry Strathxnan recommended approval of the resolution citing no one is here representing the properry and there is no further information on the property. Summary Abatement for 917 Euclid Street; Clifford Willie. (J9907A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Floyd L3nruh, co-owner with Clifford Willie, appeared. (A videotape was shown. Guy Willits supplied paperwork to Gerry Strathman.) Mr. Unruh stated he hired someone to break up a davenport and put it in the dumpster along with other materials that were there. Someone threw it off the dumpster saying the davenport could not be hauled away. Mr. Unruh called azound to see where he could take it; in the meantime, the City took it. The videotape shows materials plus other items, such as a washer; however, there has never been a washer or dryer on the properiy. It may have come from the renter next door. Mr. Unruh does not deny the properry was cleaned up, but he feels the chazge is excessive. Mr. Strathman agreed the charge is high, but it is expensive for the City to do it and it is not a business the City is in. It is cleaz Mr. t3nruh was notified and the City did the cleanup. Mr. Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded the one hour charge is $210 for the crew, one yard of refuse for $18, and one appliance for $25. Mr. Strathman stated the $18 and $25 are actual costs Mr. Unruh would have had to pay himself; however, the hour charge is a little high. ��=�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINTJTES OF 10-19-99 Page 2 Gerry Stratlunan recommended reducing the hour charge by half which makes it $105, plus the one yard of refuse for $18, the appliance for $25, plus the $40 service fee, wluch brings the assessment to a total of $188. Summary Abatement for 1895 Magnolia Avenue East; Bruce and Holly Zschokke. (J9906A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) The following appeared: Holly Zschokke, former owner; Floyd Unruh, realtor; Hector Ponce de Leon, present owner. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on 6-24-99 and posted on the door to remove all rubbish from porch area, greenhouse area, and cut tail grass. The comply date was 6-29-99. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on 7-12-99 for $1,155. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Zschokke stated the future owners said they would clean up the grass, and Ms. Zschokke had someone clean up the patio. She assumed the grass was taken care of, but she could see from the videotape the grass did not look good. However, the issue is that items were taken that the future owner wanted to purchase. Mr. Strathman stated he didn't see anything on the videotape except for old broken appliances and rires. Ms. Zschokke responded lawn mowers were taken, and there were items in the greenhouse that the owner wanted to use. Mr. Unruh stated his company Unruh Realty sold the property. The buyer, Mr. de Leon, agreed to cut the grass and was awaze of what was in the greenhouse. The lawn mowers were workable, and the only thing off of them was the grass catcher. Some items were gone from the greenhouse that were used for the operation of opening and closing the windows: geazs, handles, rods. The City had no right to go into the greenhouse. When the notice was received, Mr. Unruh contacted the Ciry and told them the property was sold and the buyer would take the properry as is. Mr. de Leon stated the reason the grass was not cut very well is because it was so long and the blade broke on his lawn mower. Mr. Willits stated Maynard Vinge spoke to Mr. Unruh at least three times before the cleaning took piace. Mr. Vinge also spoke to Mr. de Leon on 7-3-99. A total of 17 days was given before the work was done. Mr. Strathman stated there are two issues here. 1) The City did act properly in terms of doing the abatement because the notification was proper and more than reasonable time was given for the owner to make the corrections. It also appeazed the City did a great deal of work. 2) If the City ct� �� \ LEGISLATIVE FiEARING MINUTES OF 10-19-99 Page 3 took property that should not have been taken, it cannot be resolved here. A claim would need to be filed against the City for the value of the tools that aze missing. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Resolution ordering the owaer to remove or repair the building at 1089 Marshall Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Ben Roberts, owner, appeazed. Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since December 1991. There have been 17 summary abatements issued on this properiy to remove refuse, secure the building, remove gr�ti, and cut tall grass. The City has had to board the building against trespass. The vacant building fees and real estate taxes are paid. Taxation has placed an estimated mazket value of $18,900 on the property and the repair costs are estimated at $20,000. There is no current code inspection. A bond was posted and forfeited. Mr. Roberts stated he talked to Reneta Weiss and the information he received was that no new permits were required to complete the work. When bonds are forfeited, responded Mr. Magner, the permits expire, and Don Wagner will not issue a code compliance certificate until a new bond is posted and permits are issued. The building permit was issued on 2-14-95. There are six months on the permits under a bond and another six months can be granted. The bonds were forfeited 2-16-96. Mr. Roberts stated the building is neaz completion. He met with two inspectors there and told them he hoped to get it ready in 60 days, but it may be completed by the end of the month. He thought all he had to do is call Don Wagner and get a code compliance inspection. The electrical work is scheduled to be finished, and a permit is going to be pulled on that. Everything is finished on the inside of all the rooms. It looks like all this work was done without permits, stated NIr. Strathman. Mr. Roberts responded it was his impression that the building permits stood. Mr. Roberts stated he does not think the City put any boazds on the house. He received a notice that it needed to be secured and Mr. Roberts did that. Mr. Strathman responded the summary abatements are peripheral. The City has begun the process to order this building removed or repaired within 15 days. It sounds like work has been going on for three yeazs without benefit of permits. On the other hand, the owner feels the building is ready for occupancy so it is absurd to talk about teazing it down. The property needs to be inspected to see if it is ready for occupancy. A code compliance inspection is needed. �1�= t�3 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 10-19-99 � Steve Magner eaplained if a code compliance inspection is needed, it is a matter of obtaining a new $2,000 bond, a building permit, electrical permit, completing those repairs, and calling Don Wagner for an inspection. Some of this work was done under permits, but a new bond and pemut is needed to finish the repairs. Mr. Roberts stated he does not have $2,000 to post a bond. He was planning to have a code compliance inspection done by the end of this month. If there aze things Mr. Wagner says need to be done, Mr. Roberts will need time to do those. Gerry Strathtnan recommended laying over to the November 16, 1999, Legislative Hearing. Mr. Magner stated he will need something in writing to give to Don Wagner in order to release permits without a bond posted. Also, a time line is needed for the permits because a general permit is for six months. Mr. Strathman responded he will supply a memo to Don Wagner. Mr Roberts added that the inside of the building has been gutted, and new shee�ock has been added along with a new electrical system and new plumbing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1328 Minnehaha Avenue West. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (No one appeared representing the properiy.) Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since August 1998. It is owned by the secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Five suuimaty abatement orders have been issued to remove refuse, secure the dwelling, and cut tall grass. As of this date, the progerty remains in a condition that comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative code. The vacant building fees and real estate taxes aze paid. A code compliance inspection was done in April. The repairs are estimated to be $40,000. The estimated cost to demolish, $7,000 to $8,000. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the order. Summary Abatement for 1183 Arkwright Street; Donald Drouin, Jr. (J9907A) (Laid over from 10-5-99) Guy Wiilits stated this has been an ongoing issue all suuiuier. Some vehicles orders were appealed in June. There were also orders to remove gazbage and ta11 grass. After a number of appeals and a number of conversations with the proper[y owner, gazbage was removed on 8-16- 99 for $293. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Heinrich stated the last time she was here, they received an eatension to 9-1-99. �� J` LEGISLATIVE HEARING NIINUT'ES OF 10-19-99 Page 5 Donald Drouin stated there was never any garbage in the yard, tall grass, nor rank plant growth. He wondered how the City justified going into someone's yazd and taking the lawn furniture. There were five tires and wheels taken that were far vehicles in the yazd. He was under the impression from lus meetiug on 7-6-99 that his deadline on this issue was 9-1-99. Ms. Heinrich stated everything was appealed even if it was not discussed on that day. Guy Willits reported the appellant was given until 9-1-99 to store vehicles only. All other violations were to be dealt with immediately. (Mr. Strathman reviewed the minutes from 6-1-99 and 7-6-99 regarding this property. He then viewed the videotape again.) Mr. Strathman asked is the property cleaned up now. Mr. Heinrich responded she understood everything on the outside has been cleaned up. Mr. Willits responded there aze interior and e�cterior orders out at this time. An inspection had been set up with Inspector Singerhouse, but he was refused entry. Mr. Drouin stated there was an empty Rubbermaid bin in the corner of the patio. There was no reason for that to be taken. The supposed yard waste was actually the compost pile. It had been there four years for making soil. Mr. Strathman stated the minutes from 6-1-99 indicate the only item being appealed here is the vehicle abatement. Mr. Drouin responded there were two appeals. Ms. Heinrich concurred. Upon looking at the minutes further, Mr. Strathman stated there are two appeals: the vehicle abatement order appeal was received on 5-21-99 and the yazd cleanup appeal was received on 6- 14-99. Both appeals were listed in the 7-6-99 minutes, but there is no conversation on anyone's part with regard to the cleanup abatement. Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment due to a procedural error. The discussion regarding the cleanup was not reflected in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 11:19 p.m. rrn