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99-732Council File # � \ — � 3 e� ORiG1NAL Presented By Referred To COmmittee: Date � 1 WIIEREAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enfoxcement has requested the City Council 2 to hold public hearings to consider the advisability and necessity of ordering the repair or wrecking and 3 removal of a one-story, wood frame dwelling with a detached, one-stall, wood frame garage and rear, wood 4 shed located on property hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Properky" and commonly known as 1329 5 V an Buren Avenue. This property is legally described as follows, to wit: 6 7 9 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 Lot 18, B1ock 2, Syndicate No. 5 Addition. WHEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and information obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before October 29, 1998, the following are the now known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Properry: Stewart A. Flowers, 1329 Van Buren Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104-2017; Bernice Flowers Strane, 1529 Crrantham Street, St. Paul, MN 55108- 1449; Dwyne Albrecht, 1408 West Co Rd. C., Roseville, MN 55113 Wf�REAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legisiative Code an order identified as an"Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s)" dated January 6, 1999; and WI�REAS, this order informed the then known interested or responsible parties that the structure located on the Subject Properry is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and WIIEREAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or demolish the structure located on the Subject Property by February 5, 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 WI�REAS, this nuisance condition has not been conected 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 WI�REAS, 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 VJf�REAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City Councii on Tuesday, July 20, 1999 to hear testimony and evidence, and after receiving testimony and evidence, made the recommendation to approve the request to order the interested or responsible parties to make the Subject Properry safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating this structure in accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolislung and removing the sttucture in accardance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the structure to be completed within fifteen (15) days after the date of the Council Hearing; and /-- N SAINT�PfAUK.JMI�I NES OTA Green Sheet # �_�� oR��Na� ��-�3a.- 1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, 7uly 28, 1999 2 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was considered by the Council; now therefore 4 5 BE IT RESOLVED, that based upon the testimony and evidence presented at the above referenced 6 public hearings, the Saint Paul City Council hereby adopts the following Findings and Order conceming 7 the Subject Property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue: S 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 ?7 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 2. � 5. � That the Subject Property comprises a nuisance condition as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 45. That the costs of demolition and removal of this building(s) is estimated to exceed three thousand dollazs ($3,OQO.QO). That there now exists and has existed multiple Housing or Building code violations at the Subject Property. 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 buildang(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, Vacant/Nuisance 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 hexeby makes the following order: 1. The above refexenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, healtYt, 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 applicable codes and ordinances, or in the altemative 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. 2. If the above conective action is not completed within this period of time the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is hereby authorized to take whatever steps are necessary to demolish and remove this structure, fill the site and charge the costs incurred against the Subject Property pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. ORIGINAL °Cg -� 3a 1 3. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the City of Saint Paul, all personal 2 properry or fixtures of any kind wluch interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed 3 from the properry by the responsible parties by the end of this time period. If all personal property 4 is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and 5 dispose of such property as provided by law. 4. It is fiirther 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: Citi en Se uaccraffice- ode Enforcement By:�� --�� Adopted by Council: Date ��c,� .�� Form Approved by City Attorney Adoption Certified by Council Secretary n By: �� `"'�. B �,� � _ � Approved by/Pta�yor: Date ��//� 1 T By: Approved by Mayor for Submission to �q-�sa- � �� IX�f�ACi PERSON 8 PHONE Wanen R. Bostrom 266-8439 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE GREEN SHEET �..�,.��.�� CRYATTOIItEY � ❑ RiY1Wt.�FRYKF30tlL No 61674 ��. ❑ CJIYq.iRK ❑ AiJiltlJ�tliaVi)�f.Cf6 �wrort�aeumsuwq ❑ (CLIP ALL LOC TIONS FOR SIGNATURE) City Council 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 pxoperty is located at 1329 Van Buren Avenne. PLANNING COMMISSION GB CAMMITfEE CIVIL SERViCE COMMISSION Has this persoMim ever worked under a conhaQ fa thie departmeM7 YES NO lias tlire Pe��NGrm everbeen a aty empbyee7 YES NO Does th� PersoNfirtn P� a sidtl twt MrmatlyPoseessM bY a�y curtent c�YY emWoyee7 rES rro �c mis ve+sonlfirtn a tar&� vendorr YES NO 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 irnown to the Enforcement Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 1329 Van Buren Avenue by February 5, 1999, and have failed to comply with those orders. �.;�� ° ua�'�;� _ �. �. The City will eliminate a nuisance. � ��° �'� �J�� V �U I'2 .: .�._ �� The City will spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs wi11 be assessed to the property, A nuisance condition will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community. oFTwwsacnor�s $6,000 - $7,000 sounce Nuisance Housing Abatement COST/REVENUE BUDOETED (CIRCLE ON� ( YES J NO �� crnnnNUrs� 33261 INFORMNf10N (E%PWN) � }j. MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, September 21, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Heazing Officer STAFF PRESENT: Steve Magner, Code Enforcement; Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement The meeting was called to order at 9:59 a.m. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren 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 Strathman asked has this property been chosen for the Selective Clearance Program. Sa11y Peterson responded there is a signed agreement. Steve Magner reported Joy Albrecht has signed the paperwork for selective clearance. It is just a matter of recommending the resolution be approved so Code Enforcement can proceed with the demolition. The Selective Clearance Program will purchase the property and pay for the demolition. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution. The meeting was adjourned at 10:01 am. rrn REPORT Date: September 21, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGTSLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Street. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. rrn Qa -�3 a REPORT Date: August 10, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevard LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Staathman Legisiative Hearing Officer Resolufion 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 7-20-99) Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the October 19 Legislative Heazing. � 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren 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 recommended laying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. rrn q9 _�3a MINiITES OF TE� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, August 10, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:01 am. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement Resolufion ordering the owner to remove or repair the buffding at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathinan stated on July 20 there were questions about Bee Vue getting control of the property. Bee Vue appeazed and stated he is in the process of foreclosing on the property. It will take another eight weeks before he can get control of it. The tases and vacant buiiding fee have been paid. He is not the fee owner so he cannot enter the property nor can he post bond. The building is not occupied. Gerty 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 properiy 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 grass, picking up garbage, and making sure the properry is secure. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over this matter to the October 19 Legislative Hearing on condition that Bee Vue keeps the property exterior ma3ntained and secure. ,/ Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren �� Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to ��j remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathxnan stated this was laid over from July 20. He asked where the matter is today. Dwayne and Joy Albrecht appeared. Mr. Albrecht stated he was under the impression that once the property was removed under the selecfive clearance process, the Albrechts would have control of the lot. The Albrechts found out the City would take control of the properry and pays out at a pre-determined amount. Mr. Albrecht was debaring whether to go through the selective clearance process. �ia-��- LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINi.JTES 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 unkuown what the City will pay; however, the City is going through the selective cleazance paperwork. Dauid Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Corporation (H-MARC), appeazed 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 properly. Done a different way, a new owner will take on the fee for the demolition. Is a few weeks an issue, asked Mr. Strathman. Chuck Votel responded he does not think so. Also, if Code Enforcement demolished the properry as a nuisance removal, the foundation a foot below grade would be left in the ground. With selecfive cleazance, the entire foundarion is removed, which makes the lot more suitable for building. The property is being secured and maintained on the outside. Sally Peterson responded selective clearance needs two weeks. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the September 21 Legisiative Hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 a.m. � REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd I��e7�y�GrlrU�:l�',71��Ct7 Gerry Strathman L,egislafive Hearing Officer Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Chazles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $S0. 2. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File 79904A - Properiy Clean-Up during the last week of Aprii and all of May 1449. 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 J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Chazles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �t.`� _`� 3 � 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� 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 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �c1�3� LEGISLATIVE HEARING REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Stcathman recommended approval of the assessment 613 Rose Avenue Fast (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment 1020 Cazroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approvai of the assessment. 1068 Iglehart Avenue (File J9902� Gerry StratUman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the properry 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. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 V an Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recoaunended laying over to the August 10 Legislarive Hearing. rrn � MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING y� Tuesday, July 20, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy Willits, Code Enforcement Summary 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 gazbage, rubbish, furniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, etc. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on Apri19 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeazed 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 extensive cleaning. 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 J9903Bi) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeazed 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 bill.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boarding company. The reason it is costly is because the company has to respond immediately whenever the police or fire department 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 bill, and today's hearing is after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the ��t LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 2 commercial rate of $13.50. T1us fee is $1,490, which is $210 an hour. He has no control over tius 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 are put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a list of Imown 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 J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant bnildings during Apri11999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Larry and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeazed and stated they saw the cleanup. 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 is puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with ihe Fietchers 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 yard, 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 J9902V) No one appeazed representing the properiy. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. ��= 13Z LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� Daniel Feess, owner, appeared. 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 I3ovember 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 retumed.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Wiilits 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 teiling 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 properiy, then you are responsible for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathxnan 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 clean 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 tizne. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $57Q.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 20, 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Parks 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 all the heavy stuff away. It was `�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. T'hey missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in theu 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 Strathman 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, appeazed and stated his son lives at this property. Guy Wiilits reported orders were mailed on Apri18, 1999, to remove a refrigerator, mattresses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old fencing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Pazks and Recreation did the work on April 23 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 wurt 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 for this. He would like $1,200 returned to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the carpeting. Mr. Czaplewski 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 artive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants aze lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an extension of time for his attorney to handle this issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Stratlunan 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 credible. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) ��_ �3Z LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLJTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the properiy. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroli Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeazed. Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fiuniture. Parks 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 1 S peopie 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. Favis filed for eviction in court, she wouid get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fixing 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 taxes. Gerry Strathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw all the garbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The property 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 returned.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LBGISLATIVE HEARII3G MINUTES OF 7-20-99 1068 Iglehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment per Guy Willits. �t�-�3Z Page 6 Resolution ordering the owner to remove ur repair the property at 419 Sherburue Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this building has been condemned since Mazch 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Cluistine Sylvis are the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taYes aze 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 $11,000. All interested parties have been notified. A. Vue appeared on behalf of his brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this property. Bee Vue wrote a letter conceming what he intends to do with the properry. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a letter from Bee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs are the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded they aze the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitied Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get controi of this property. 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 smumary 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 yard. 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 fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this buiiding has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The City has issued tl�ree summary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the proper[y. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated market value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, esfimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF 7-20-99 G��Z 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 property with the intent to teaz 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 property. There is a program called selective clearance, which they applied for last yeaz. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not wanant repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove or repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the property. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the building. Saily Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selec6ve 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 wark 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 awaze of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there aze no any immediate issues with this property. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional fime to deal with this property. Hopefully, there will be a plan worked out by then. The meeting was adjoumed at 11:33 a.m. lr.Yl CIT[ZEN SERVICE OFFICE Fred Owusu, C�ty Clerk DIVISION OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT Warren R Bastram, Pro am Mana e� �, 1 y �r" .S�T Pf� V1., Nursance Building Code Enforcemen[ Norm Coteman, Mayor I S W. Kellogg Blvd Rm. 190 Saint Paul, MN55101 � June 25, 1999 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Council President and Members of the City Council Citizen Service Office, VacantlNuisance Buiidings Enforcetnent 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: 1329 Van Buren Avenue The City Council has scheduled the date of these hearin�s as follows: Legislative Hearing - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 City Council Hearing - Wednesday, July 28, 1999 �g _� �a- Te1: 651-266-8J40 Faz: 65I-266-3426 � The owners and responsibte parties of record are: Name and Last Known Address Interest ��°L�'��; ��5��:� v°;t,t�a Stewart A. Flowers 1329 Van Buren Avenue St. Paul, NIIv' S5104-2017 Bernice Flo�vers Strane 1529 Grantham Street St. Paul, MN 55108-1449 Fee Owner Taxpayer D«yne Albrecht Interested Pam 1408 West Co Rd. C. Roseville, NIl� 55113 s�� 1329 V an Buren Avenue June 25, 1999 Page 2 The le�al description of this properry is: Lot 18, Block 2, Syndicate No. 5 Addition Division of Code Enforcement has declared this buildin�(s) to constitute a"nuisance" as defined by Le�islative Code, Chapter 45. Division of Code Enforcement has issued an order to the then known responsible parties to eluninate this nuisance condition by correcting the deficiencies or by razin� and removing this building(s). Inasmuch as this Order to Abate has not been complied with the nuisance condition remains unabated, the community continues to suffer the blighting influence of this property. It is the recommendation of the Division of Code Enforcement that the City Council pass a resolution ordering the responsible parties to either repair, or demolish and remove this building 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 against the real estate as a special assessment to be collected in the same manner as taxes. �/' -// .sy , , _ .'�� " — Steve Magner Vacant Buildings Supervisor Division of Code Enforcement Citizen Service Office SM:mI cc: Frank Berg, Buildin� Inspection and Desitrn Rachel Young, City Attorneys Office Nancy Anderson, Assistant Secretary to the Council Steve Zaccard, Fire Marshail Paul Mordorski, PED-Housin� Division Council File # � \ — � 3 e� ORiG1NAL Presented By Referred To COmmittee: Date � 1 WIIEREAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enfoxcement has requested the City Council 2 to hold public hearings to consider the advisability and necessity of ordering the repair or wrecking and 3 removal of a one-story, wood frame dwelling with a detached, one-stall, wood frame garage and rear, wood 4 shed located on property hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Properky" and commonly known as 1329 5 V an Buren Avenue. This property is legally described as follows, to wit: 6 7 9 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 Lot 18, B1ock 2, Syndicate No. 5 Addition. WHEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and information obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before October 29, 1998, the following are the now known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Properry: Stewart A. Flowers, 1329 Van Buren Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104-2017; Bernice Flowers Strane, 1529 Crrantham Street, St. Paul, MN 55108- 1449; Dwyne Albrecht, 1408 West Co Rd. C., Roseville, MN 55113 Wf�REAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legisiative Code an order identified as an"Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s)" dated January 6, 1999; and WI�REAS, this order informed the then known interested or responsible parties that the structure located on the Subject Properry is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and WIIEREAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or demolish the structure located on the Subject Property by February 5, 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 WI�REAS, this nuisance condition has not been conected 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 WI�REAS, 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 VJf�REAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City Councii on Tuesday, July 20, 1999 to hear testimony and evidence, and after receiving testimony and evidence, made the recommendation to approve the request to order the interested or responsible parties to make the Subject Properry safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating this structure in accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolislung and removing the sttucture in accardance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the structure to be completed within fifteen (15) days after the date of the Council Hearing; and /-- N SAINT�PfAUK.JMI�I NES OTA Green Sheet # �_�� oR��Na� ��-�3a.- 1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, 7uly 28, 1999 2 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was considered by the Council; now therefore 4 5 BE IT RESOLVED, that based upon the testimony and evidence presented at the above referenced 6 public hearings, the Saint Paul City Council hereby adopts the following Findings and Order conceming 7 the Subject Property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue: S 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 ?7 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 2. � 5. � That the Subject Property comprises a nuisance condition as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 45. That the costs of demolition and removal of this building(s) is estimated to exceed three thousand dollazs ($3,OQO.QO). That there now exists and has existed multiple Housing or Building code violations at the Subject Property. 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 buildang(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, Vacant/Nuisance 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 hexeby makes the following order: 1. The above refexenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, healtYt, 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 applicable codes and ordinances, or in the altemative 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. 2. If the above conective action is not completed within this period of time the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is hereby authorized to take whatever steps are necessary to demolish and remove this structure, fill the site and charge the costs incurred against the Subject Property pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. ORIGINAL °Cg -� 3a 1 3. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the City of Saint Paul, all personal 2 properry or fixtures of any kind wluch interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed 3 from the properry by the responsible parties by the end of this time period. If all personal property 4 is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and 5 dispose of such property as provided by law. 4. It is fiirther 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: Citi en Se uaccraffice- ode Enforcement By:�� --�� Adopted by Council: Date ��c,� .�� Form Approved by City Attorney Adoption Certified by Council Secretary n By: �� `"'�. B �,� � _ � Approved by/Pta�yor: Date ��//� 1 T By: Approved by Mayor for Submission to �q-�sa- � �� IX�f�ACi PERSON 8 PHONE Wanen R. Bostrom 266-8439 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE GREEN SHEET �..�,.��.�� CRYATTOIItEY � ❑ RiY1Wt.�FRYKF30tlL No 61674 ��. ❑ CJIYq.iRK ❑ AiJiltlJ�tliaVi)�f.Cf6 �wrort�aeumsuwq ❑ (CLIP ALL LOC TIONS FOR SIGNATURE) City Council 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 pxoperty is located at 1329 Van Buren Avenne. PLANNING COMMISSION GB CAMMITfEE CIVIL SERViCE COMMISSION Has this persoMim ever worked under a conhaQ fa thie departmeM7 YES NO lias tlire Pe��NGrm everbeen a aty empbyee7 YES NO Does th� PersoNfirtn P� a sidtl twt MrmatlyPoseessM bY a�y curtent c�YY emWoyee7 rES rro �c mis ve+sonlfirtn a tar&� vendorr YES NO 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 irnown to the Enforcement Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 1329 Van Buren Avenue by February 5, 1999, and have failed to comply with those orders. �.;�� ° ua�'�;� _ �. �. The City will eliminate a nuisance. � ��° �'� �J�� V �U I'2 .: .�._ �� The City will spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs wi11 be assessed to the property, A nuisance condition will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community. oFTwwsacnor�s $6,000 - $7,000 sounce Nuisance Housing Abatement COST/REVENUE BUDOETED (CIRCLE ON� ( YES J NO �� crnnnNUrs� 33261 INFORMNf10N (E%PWN) � }j. MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, September 21, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Heazing Officer STAFF PRESENT: Steve Magner, Code Enforcement; Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement The meeting was called to order at 9:59 a.m. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren 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 Strathman asked has this property been chosen for the Selective Clearance Program. Sa11y Peterson responded there is a signed agreement. Steve Magner reported Joy Albrecht has signed the paperwork for selective clearance. It is just a matter of recommending the resolution be approved so Code Enforcement can proceed with the demolition. The Selective Clearance Program will purchase the property and pay for the demolition. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution. The meeting was adjourned at 10:01 am. rrn REPORT Date: September 21, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGTSLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Street. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. rrn Qa -�3 a REPORT Date: August 10, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevard LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Staathman Legisiative Hearing Officer Resolufion 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 7-20-99) Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the October 19 Legislative Heazing. � 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren 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 recommended laying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. rrn q9 _�3a MINiITES OF TE� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, August 10, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:01 am. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement Resolufion ordering the owner to remove or repair the buffding at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathinan stated on July 20 there were questions about Bee Vue getting control of the property. Bee Vue appeazed and stated he is in the process of foreclosing on the property. It will take another eight weeks before he can get control of it. The tases and vacant buiiding fee have been paid. He is not the fee owner so he cannot enter the property nor can he post bond. The building is not occupied. Gerty 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 properiy 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 grass, picking up garbage, and making sure the properry is secure. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over this matter to the October 19 Legislative Hearing on condition that Bee Vue keeps the property exterior ma3ntained and secure. ,/ Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren �� Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to ��j remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathxnan stated this was laid over from July 20. He asked where the matter is today. Dwayne and Joy Albrecht appeared. Mr. Albrecht stated he was under the impression that once the property was removed under the selecfive clearance process, the Albrechts would have control of the lot. The Albrechts found out the City would take control of the properry and pays out at a pre-determined amount. Mr. Albrecht was debaring whether to go through the selective clearance process. �ia-��- LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINi.JTES 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 unkuown what the City will pay; however, the City is going through the selective cleazance paperwork. Dauid Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Corporation (H-MARC), appeazed 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 properly. Done a different way, a new owner will take on the fee for the demolition. Is a few weeks an issue, asked Mr. Strathman. Chuck Votel responded he does not think so. Also, if Code Enforcement demolished the properry as a nuisance removal, the foundation a foot below grade would be left in the ground. With selecfive cleazance, the entire foundarion is removed, which makes the lot more suitable for building. The property is being secured and maintained on the outside. Sally Peterson responded selective clearance needs two weeks. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the September 21 Legisiative Hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 a.m. � REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd I��e7�y�GrlrU�:l�',71��Ct7 Gerry Strathman L,egislafive Hearing Officer Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Chazles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $S0. 2. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File 79904A - Properiy Clean-Up during the last week of Aprii and all of May 1449. 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 J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Chazles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �t.`� _`� 3 � 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� 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 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �c1�3� LEGISLATIVE HEARING REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Stcathman recommended approval of the assessment 613 Rose Avenue Fast (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment 1020 Cazroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approvai of the assessment. 1068 Iglehart Avenue (File J9902� Gerry StratUman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the properry 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. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 V an Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recoaunended laying over to the August 10 Legislarive Hearing. rrn � MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING y� Tuesday, July 20, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy Willits, Code Enforcement Summary 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 gazbage, rubbish, furniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, etc. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on Apri19 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeazed 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 extensive cleaning. 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 J9903Bi) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeazed 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 bill.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boarding company. The reason it is costly is because the company has to respond immediately whenever the police or fire department 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 bill, and today's hearing is after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the ��t LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 2 commercial rate of $13.50. T1us fee is $1,490, which is $210 an hour. He has no control over tius 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 are put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a list of Imown 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 J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant bnildings during Apri11999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Larry and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeazed and stated they saw the cleanup. 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 is puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with ihe Fietchers 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 yard, 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 J9902V) No one appeazed representing the properiy. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. ��= 13Z LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� Daniel Feess, owner, appeared. 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 I3ovember 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 retumed.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Wiilits 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 teiling 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 properiy, then you are responsible for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathxnan 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 clean 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 tizne. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $57Q.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 20, 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Parks 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 all the heavy stuff away. It was `�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. T'hey missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in theu 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 Strathman 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, appeazed and stated his son lives at this property. Guy Wiilits reported orders were mailed on Apri18, 1999, to remove a refrigerator, mattresses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old fencing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Pazks and Recreation did the work on April 23 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 wurt 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 for this. He would like $1,200 returned to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the carpeting. Mr. Czaplewski 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 artive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants aze lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an extension of time for his attorney to handle this issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Stratlunan 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 credible. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) ��_ �3Z LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLJTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the properiy. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroli Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeazed. Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fiuniture. Parks 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 1 S peopie 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. Favis filed for eviction in court, she wouid get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fixing 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 taxes. Gerry Strathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw all the garbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The property 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 returned.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LBGISLATIVE HEARII3G MINUTES OF 7-20-99 1068 Iglehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment per Guy Willits. �t�-�3Z Page 6 Resolution ordering the owner to remove ur repair the property at 419 Sherburue Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this building has been condemned since Mazch 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Cluistine Sylvis are the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taYes aze 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 $11,000. All interested parties have been notified. A. Vue appeared on behalf of his brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this property. Bee Vue wrote a letter conceming what he intends to do with the properry. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a letter from Bee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs are the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded they aze the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitied Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get controi of this property. 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 smumary 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 yard. 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 fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this buiiding has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The City has issued tl�ree summary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the proper[y. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated market value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, esfimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF 7-20-99 G��Z 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 property with the intent to teaz 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 property. There is a program called selective clearance, which they applied for last yeaz. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not wanant repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove or repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the property. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the building. Saily Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selec6ve 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 wark 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 awaze of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there aze no any immediate issues with this property. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional fime to deal with this property. Hopefully, there will be a plan worked out by then. The meeting was adjoumed at 11:33 a.m. lr.Yl CIT[ZEN SERVICE OFFICE Fred Owusu, C�ty Clerk DIVISION OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT Warren R Bastram, Pro am Mana e� �, 1 y �r" .S�T Pf� V1., Nursance Building Code Enforcemen[ Norm Coteman, Mayor I S W. Kellogg Blvd Rm. 190 Saint Paul, MN55101 � June 25, 1999 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Council President and Members of the City Council Citizen Service Office, VacantlNuisance Buiidings Enforcetnent 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: 1329 Van Buren Avenue The City Council has scheduled the date of these hearin�s as follows: Legislative Hearing - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 City Council Hearing - Wednesday, July 28, 1999 �g _� �a- Te1: 651-266-8J40 Faz: 65I-266-3426 � The owners and responsibte parties of record are: Name and Last Known Address Interest ��°L�'��; ��5��:� v°;t,t�a Stewart A. Flowers 1329 Van Buren Avenue St. Paul, NIIv' S5104-2017 Bernice Flo�vers Strane 1529 Grantham Street St. Paul, MN 55108-1449 Fee Owner Taxpayer D«yne Albrecht Interested Pam 1408 West Co Rd. C. Roseville, NIl� 55113 s�� 1329 V an Buren Avenue June 25, 1999 Page 2 The le�al description of this properry is: Lot 18, Block 2, Syndicate No. 5 Addition Division of Code Enforcement has declared this buildin�(s) to constitute a"nuisance" as defined by Le�islative Code, Chapter 45. Division of Code Enforcement has issued an order to the then known responsible parties to eluninate this nuisance condition by correcting the deficiencies or by razin� and removing this building(s). Inasmuch as this Order to Abate has not been complied with the nuisance condition remains unabated, the community continues to suffer the blighting influence of this property. It is the recommendation of the Division of Code Enforcement that the City Council pass a resolution ordering the responsible parties to either repair, or demolish and remove this building 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 against the real estate as a special assessment to be collected in the same manner as taxes. �/' -// .sy , , _ .'�� " — Steve Magner Vacant Buildings Supervisor Division of Code Enforcement Citizen Service Office SM:mI cc: Frank Berg, Buildin� Inspection and Desitrn Rachel Young, City Attorneys Office Nancy Anderson, Assistant Secretary to the Council Steve Zaccard, Fire Marshail Paul Mordorski, PED-Housin� Division Council File # � \ — � 3 e� ORiG1NAL Presented By Referred To COmmittee: Date � 1 WIIEREAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enfoxcement has requested the City Council 2 to hold public hearings to consider the advisability and necessity of ordering the repair or wrecking and 3 removal of a one-story, wood frame dwelling with a detached, one-stall, wood frame garage and rear, wood 4 shed located on property hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Properky" and commonly known as 1329 5 V an Buren Avenue. This property is legally described as follows, to wit: 6 7 9 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 Lot 18, B1ock 2, Syndicate No. 5 Addition. WHEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and information obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before October 29, 1998, the following are the now known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Properry: Stewart A. Flowers, 1329 Van Buren Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104-2017; Bernice Flowers Strane, 1529 Crrantham Street, St. Paul, MN 55108- 1449; Dwyne Albrecht, 1408 West Co Rd. C., Roseville, MN 55113 Wf�REAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legisiative Code an order identified as an"Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s)" dated January 6, 1999; and WI�REAS, this order informed the then known interested or responsible parties that the structure located on the Subject Properry is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and WIIEREAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or demolish the structure located on the Subject Property by February 5, 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 WI�REAS, this nuisance condition has not been conected 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 WI�REAS, 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 VJf�REAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City Councii on Tuesday, July 20, 1999 to hear testimony and evidence, and after receiving testimony and evidence, made the recommendation to approve the request to order the interested or responsible parties to make the Subject Properry safe and not detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the community by rehabilitating this structure in accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances, or in the alternative by demolislung and removing the sttucture in accardance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the structure to be completed within fifteen (15) days after the date of the Council Hearing; and /-- N SAINT�PfAUK.JMI�I NES OTA Green Sheet # �_�� oR��Na� ��-�3a.- 1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, 7uly 28, 1999 2 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was considered by the Council; now therefore 4 5 BE IT RESOLVED, that based upon the testimony and evidence presented at the above referenced 6 public hearings, the Saint Paul City Council hereby adopts the following Findings and Order conceming 7 the Subject Property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue: S 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 ?7 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 2. � 5. � That the Subject Property comprises a nuisance condition as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 45. That the costs of demolition and removal of this building(s) is estimated to exceed three thousand dollazs ($3,OQO.QO). That there now exists and has existed multiple Housing or Building code violations at the Subject Property. 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 buildang(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, Vacant/Nuisance 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 hexeby makes the following order: 1. The above refexenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, healtYt, 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 applicable codes and ordinances, or in the altemative 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. 2. If the above conective action is not completed within this period of time the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is hereby authorized to take whatever steps are necessary to demolish and remove this structure, fill the site and charge the costs incurred against the Subject Property pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code. ORIGINAL °Cg -� 3a 1 3. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the City of Saint Paul, all personal 2 properry or fixtures of any kind wluch interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed 3 from the properry by the responsible parties by the end of this time period. If all personal property 4 is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and 5 dispose of such property as provided by law. 4. It is fiirther 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: Citi en Se uaccraffice- ode Enforcement By:�� --�� Adopted by Council: Date ��c,� .�� Form Approved by City Attorney Adoption Certified by Council Secretary n By: �� `"'�. B �,� � _ � Approved by/Pta�yor: Date ��//� 1 T By: Approved by Mayor for Submission to �q-�sa- � �� IX�f�ACi PERSON 8 PHONE Wanen R. Bostrom 266-8439 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE GREEN SHEET �..�,.��.�� CRYATTOIItEY � ❑ RiY1Wt.�FRYKF30tlL No 61674 ��. ❑ CJIYq.iRK ❑ AiJiltlJ�tliaVi)�f.Cf6 �wrort�aeumsuwq ❑ (CLIP ALL LOC TIONS FOR SIGNATURE) City Council 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 pxoperty is located at 1329 Van Buren Avenne. PLANNING COMMISSION GB CAMMITfEE CIVIL SERViCE COMMISSION Has this persoMim ever worked under a conhaQ fa thie departmeM7 YES NO lias tlire Pe��NGrm everbeen a aty empbyee7 YES NO Does th� PersoNfirtn P� a sidtl twt MrmatlyPoseessM bY a�y curtent c�YY emWoyee7 rES rro �c mis ve+sonlfirtn a tar&� vendorr YES NO 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 irnown to the Enforcement Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 1329 Van Buren Avenue by February 5, 1999, and have failed to comply with those orders. �.;�� ° ua�'�;� _ �. �. The City will eliminate a nuisance. � ��° �'� �J�� V �U I'2 .: .�._ �� The City will spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs wi11 be assessed to the property, A nuisance condition will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community. oFTwwsacnor�s $6,000 - $7,000 sounce Nuisance Housing Abatement COST/REVENUE BUDOETED (CIRCLE ON� ( YES J NO �� crnnnNUrs� 33261 INFORMNf10N (E%PWN) � }j. MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, September 21, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Heazing Officer STAFF PRESENT: Steve Magner, Code Enforcement; Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement The meeting was called to order at 9:59 a.m. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren 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 Strathman asked has this property been chosen for the Selective Clearance Program. Sa11y Peterson responded there is a signed agreement. Steve Magner reported Joy Albrecht has signed the paperwork for selective clearance. It is just a matter of recommending the resolution be approved so Code Enforcement can proceed with the demolition. The Selective Clearance Program will purchase the property and pay for the demolition. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution. The meeting was adjourned at 10:01 am. rrn REPORT Date: September 21, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGTSLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislative Hearing Officer Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Street. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. rrn Qa -�3 a REPORT Date: August 10, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevard LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Staathman Legisiative Hearing Officer Resolufion 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 7-20-99) Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the October 19 Legislative Heazing. � 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren 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 recommended laying over to the September 21 Legislative Hearing. rrn q9 _�3a MINiITES OF TE� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, August 10, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:01 am. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement Resolufion ordering the owner to remove or repair the buffding at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathinan stated on July 20 there were questions about Bee Vue getting control of the property. Bee Vue appeazed and stated he is in the process of foreclosing on the property. It will take another eight weeks before he can get control of it. The tases and vacant buiiding fee have been paid. He is not the fee owner so he cannot enter the property nor can he post bond. The building is not occupied. Gerty 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 properiy 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 grass, picking up garbage, and making sure the properry is secure. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over this matter to the October 19 Legislative Hearing on condition that Bee Vue keeps the property exterior ma3ntained and secure. ,/ Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1329 Van Buren �� Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to ��j remove the building. (Laid over from 7-20-99) Gerry Strathxnan stated this was laid over from July 20. He asked where the matter is today. Dwayne and Joy Albrecht appeared. Mr. Albrecht stated he was under the impression that once the property was removed under the selecfive clearance process, the Albrechts would have control of the lot. The Albrechts found out the City would take control of the properry and pays out at a pre-determined amount. Mr. Albrecht was debaring whether to go through the selective clearance process. �ia-��- LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINi.JTES 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 unkuown what the City will pay; however, the City is going through the selective cleazance paperwork. Dauid Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Corporation (H-MARC), appeazed 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 properly. Done a different way, a new owner will take on the fee for the demolition. Is a few weeks an issue, asked Mr. Strathman. Chuck Votel responded he does not think so. Also, if Code Enforcement demolished the properry as a nuisance removal, the foundation a foot below grade would be left in the ground. With selecfive cleazance, the entire foundarion is removed, which makes the lot more suitable for building. The property is being secured and maintained on the outside. Sally Peterson responded selective clearance needs two weeks. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the September 21 Legisiative Hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 a.m. � REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd I��e7�y�GrlrU�:l�',71��Ct7 Gerry Strathman L,egislafive Hearing Officer Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Chazles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $S0. 2. Summary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File 79904A - Properiy Clean-Up during the last week of Aprii and all of May 1449. 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 J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Chazles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �t.`� _`� 3 � 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� 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 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �c1�3� LEGISLATIVE HEARING REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Stcathman recommended approval of the assessment 613 Rose Avenue Fast (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment 1020 Cazroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approvai of the assessment. 1068 Iglehart Avenue (File J9902� Gerry StratUman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the properry 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. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 V an Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recoaunended laying over to the August 10 Legislarive Hearing. rrn � MINiJTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING y� Tuesday, July 20, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy Willits, Code Enforcement Summary 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 gazbage, rubbish, furniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, etc. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on Apri19 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeazed 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 extensive cleaning. 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 J9903Bi) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeazed 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 bill.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boarding company. The reason it is costly is because the company has to respond immediately whenever the police or fire department 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 bill, and today's hearing is after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the ��t LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 2 commercial rate of $13.50. T1us fee is $1,490, which is $210 an hour. He has no control over tius 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 are put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a list of Imown 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 J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant bnildings during Apri11999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Larry and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeazed and stated they saw the cleanup. 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 is puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with ihe Fietchers 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 yard, 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 J9902V) No one appeazed representing the properiy. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. ��= 13Z LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J9902� Daniel Feess, owner, appeared. 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 I3ovember 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 retumed.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Wiilits 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 teiling 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 properiy, then you are responsible for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathxnan 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 clean 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 tizne. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $57Q.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 20, 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Parks 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 all the heavy stuff away. It was `�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. T'hey missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in theu 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 Strathman 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, appeazed and stated his son lives at this property. Guy Wiilits reported orders were mailed on Apri18, 1999, to remove a refrigerator, mattresses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old fencing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Pazks and Recreation did the work on April 23 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 wurt 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 for this. He would like $1,200 returned to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the carpeting. Mr. Czaplewski 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 artive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants aze lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an extension of time for his attorney to handle this issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Stratlunan 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 credible. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) ��_ �3Z LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLJTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the properiy. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroli Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeazed. Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fiuniture. Parks 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 1 S peopie 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. Favis filed for eviction in court, she wouid get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fixing 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 taxes. Gerry Strathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw all the garbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The property 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 returned.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LBGISLATIVE HEARII3G MINUTES OF 7-20-99 1068 Iglehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment per Guy Willits. �t�-�3Z Page 6 Resolution ordering the owner to remove ur repair the property at 419 Sherburue Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this building has been condemned since Mazch 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Cluistine Sylvis are the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taYes aze 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 $11,000. All interested parties have been notified. A. Vue appeared on behalf of his brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this property. Bee Vue wrote a letter conceming what he intends to do with the properry. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a letter from Bee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs are the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Votel responded they aze the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitied Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get controi of this property. 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 smumary 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 yard. 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 fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Chuck Votel reported this buiiding has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The City has issued tl�ree summary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the proper[y. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated market value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, esfimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF 7-20-99 G��Z 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 property with the intent to teaz 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 property. There is a program called selective clearance, which they applied for last yeaz. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not wanant repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove or repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the property. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the building. Saily Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selec6ve 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 wark 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 awaze of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there aze no any immediate issues with this property. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional fime to deal with this property. Hopefully, there will be a plan worked out by then. The meeting was adjoumed at 11:33 a.m. lr.Yl CIT[ZEN SERVICE OFFICE Fred Owusu, C�ty Clerk DIVISION OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT Warren R Bastram, Pro am Mana e� �, 1 y �r" .S�T Pf� V1., Nursance Building Code Enforcemen[ Norm Coteman, Mayor I S W. Kellogg Blvd Rm. 190 Saint Paul, MN55101 � June 25, 1999 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Council President and Members of the City Council Citizen Service Office, VacantlNuisance Buiidings Enforcetnent 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: 1329 Van Buren Avenue The City Council has scheduled the date of these hearin�s as follows: Legislative Hearing - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 City Council Hearing - Wednesday, July 28, 1999 �g _� �a- Te1: 651-266-8J40 Faz: 65I-266-3426 � The owners and responsibte parties of record are: Name and Last Known Address Interest ��°L�'��; ��5��:� v°;t,t�a Stewart A. Flowers 1329 Van Buren Avenue St. Paul, NIIv' S5104-2017 Bernice Flo�vers Strane 1529 Grantham Street St. Paul, MN 55108-1449 Fee Owner Taxpayer D«yne Albrecht Interested Pam 1408 West Co Rd. C. Roseville, NIl� 55113 s�� 1329 V an Buren Avenue June 25, 1999 Page 2 The le�al description of this properry is: Lot 18, Block 2, Syndicate No. 5 Addition Division of Code Enforcement has declared this buildin�(s) to constitute a"nuisance" as defined by Le�islative Code, Chapter 45. Division of Code Enforcement has issued an order to the then known responsible parties to eluninate this nuisance condition by correcting the deficiencies or by razin� and removing this building(s). Inasmuch as this Order to Abate has not been complied with the nuisance condition remains unabated, the community continues to suffer the blighting influence of this property. It is the recommendation of the Division of Code Enforcement that the City Council pass a resolution ordering the responsible parties to either repair, or demolish and remove this building 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 against the real estate as a special assessment to be collected in the same manner as taxes. �/' -// .sy , , _ .'�� " — Steve Magner Vacant Buildings Supervisor Division of Code Enforcement Citizen Service Office SM:mI cc: Frank Berg, Buildin� Inspection and Desitrn Rachel Young, City Attorneys Office Nancy Anderson, Assistant Secretary to the Council Steve Zaccard, Fire Marshail Paul Mordorski, PED-Housin� Division