01-122,� �. � , �
Presented By
Referred To
Council File # O � —\'»-
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Green Sheet # ) o a,3 � .�
RESOLUTION
1 OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA
3 �I
Committee: Date
1 WF3EREAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement 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 two-story, wood frame duplex and detached, two-stall, wood frame garage located on property
4 hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Property" and commonly known as 964 Woodbridge Street. This
5 property is legally described as follows, to wit:
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All of Lot 8 and the South 7 feet of Lot 9, Block 44, Auerbach & Hands Addition to the City
of St. Paul.
WHEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and information
obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before September 20, 2000, the following are the now
known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Property: Duane Thomas Severin, 790 Carla Lane,
Little Canada, MN 55109; Ann Severin, 66 9"' Street East, St. Paul, MN 55102
WHEREAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code an order identified as an "Order to Abate Nuisance
Building(s)" dated November 14, 2000; and
WHEREAS, this order informed the then lrnown interested or responsible parties that the structure
located on the Subject Property is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and
WHEREAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or
demolish the shucture located on the Subject Property by December 14, 2000; and
WHEREAS, the enforcement officer has posted a placard on the Subject Property declaring this
building(s) to consritute a nuisance condition; subject to demolition; and
WHEREAS, this nuisance condition has not been corrected and Division of Code Enforcement
requested that the City Clerk schedule public hearings before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the City
Council and the Saint Paul City Council; and
WHEREAS, the interested and responsible parties have been served notice in accordance with the
provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, of the time, date, place and purpose of the
public hearings; and
WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City
Council on Tuesday, January 16, 2001 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 Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, healtti, 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 altemative by demolishing and removing the structure in
accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the shucture to be
completed within�een-��Kj d�ay� after the date of the Council Aearing; and � � . � o ,,
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1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, Februa.ry 7,
2 2001 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was
considered by the Council; now therefore
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 concerning
7 the Subject Property at 964 Woodbridge Street:
1.
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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 estunated to exceed three
thousand dollars ($3,000.00).
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 building(s).
That the deficiencies causing this nuisance conditaon haue not been corrected.
That Division of Code Enforcement has posted a placard on the Subj ect 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 laiown interested parties and owners are as previously stated in this resolution and
that the notification requirements of Chapter 45 have been fulfilled.
ORDER
The Saint Paul City Council hereby makes the following order:
1. The above referenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not
detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the
community by rehabilitating this structure and correcting all deficiencies as prescribed in the above
referenced Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) in accordance with all applicable codes and
ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the shucture in accordance with all
applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition and removal of the structure
must be completed withi �€efteexr(�Sj�days after the date of the Council Hearing.
o.1e h�.v. <� <: � - L — �2- � o�
2. If the above corrective action is not completed wit �iun 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 Legislarive Code.
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1 3. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the Ciry of Saint Paul, all personal
2 property or fixtures of any kind which interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed
3 from the property by the responsible parties by the end of this rime period. If all personai properiy
4 is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and
5 dispose of such properiy as provided by law.
6
7 4. It is further 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.
Adopted by Council: Date (� 2-cyo�
Adoption Certified by Council Secret
�
Requested by Department o£
Citizen Service Office; Code Enforcement
BY: �i�N�-0� V��'��`--�1
Form Approved by City Attorney
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✓
Approved by Mayor: Date � �l
By: �-fd"
Approved by Mayar for Submission to Council
B C�� 4�G
Division of Code Enforcement � 12/22/00
bNTACf PERSON 8 PFiOME �
Michael R. Morehead 266-8439 ��
iusr ee ori cou�c��acemn er lw�l
Wednesday, February 7, 2001, �'
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TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES
GREEN SHEET
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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 compiy with the resolution, the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is ozdered
to remove the building. The subject property is located at 964 Woodbridge Street.
PLANNING CAMMISSION
CIB CAMMITTEE
CML SERVICE COMMISSION
ws ws persoruhrm everxa� wqer a connaa ror mis.deaammema
YES NO
tias mia pweaJfmm ewtea� a aly anpbyee9
YES NO
Does tlus PeisoNfiim Y�ess a sloll rwt �armallypossesc�,M bY any cunent cnY emPbYee?
11��i �7
Is Mis pnaoM�m a tarpMed vendaYt
YES MO
Jain all ves artav.e�s m seoa2le sM�
VITIA7ING PROBLEM ISSUE. OPPORTUNITY (Who. WImC When.lNhere. WhY)
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 l�own to the Enforcement
Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 964:Woodbtidge Street by December 14, 2000,
and have failed to comply with those orders.
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The City will eliminate a nuisance.
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CITY ,��T���E�'
IISADVANTAGES IF PPPROVED
The City wili spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs will be assessed to the property,
collected as a s ecial assessment against the roperty ta�ces.
)ISADVANTAG6IFNOTAPPROVED ' - � ' �
A nuisance condition will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community.
TRANSACTION t � �
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COST/itE1lEHUE BUD6ETID (GRCLE ON� ( YES I �
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Council File #
MINUTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING
D 1 -���-
Tuesday, Apri117, 2001
Room 330 Coutthouse
Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing O�cer
STAFF PRESENT: John Betz, Code Enforcement; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement
The meeting was called to order at 10:02 am.
Laid over snmmary abatements from the City Council Meeting of Apri14, 2001
File JO1L0 Boarding-np ofvacant buildings at the following addresses: 136 Wilder
Street,119'7 Ross Avenue,1165 Hndson Road
Abandoned vehicle at the following address: 615 Charles Avenne
Property Clean-up at the following addresses: 1835 St. Clair Avenue, 707
Jessamine Avenue East
136 Wilder Street North (JOIBDUP)
James Fitzpatrick, owner, stated he is being charged with boazding up a gazage door. He had
some personal injuries, which delayed him closing up the gazage. Also, it took a week to get a
garage door ordered and installed.
Steve Magner reported he issued a summary abatement order on 8-31-00 to secure the gazage.
On 9-7-00, one window was boazded, but the vacant building placazds were torn down. The
work order was sent on 9-13-00 about a wide open vehicle door, attached garage. There was no
response from the owner. On 12-9-00, the garage was still open. The inspector tried to contact
the properry owner and left a detailed message.
(Mr. Magner showed a photograph.)
Gerry Strathman stated the owner had a couple of weeks to make the repair and staff attempted to
contact him. It is uncleaz why the repair was not made. Mr. Fitzpatrick responded he was
injured while doing the work, which delayed it. Also, he had no problem with the door. Mr.
Strathman explained that the City code requires that all buildings be secured and access restricted
to prevent them &om being an attra�ctive nuisance for �hildren, vagrants, criminals, etc.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1197 Ross Avenue (JOIBDUP)
Mark Boeltl, owner, appeared and stated he had an arson on his gazage on 10-30-00. The Fire
Department got done about 2:00 a.m. and said they had to secure the building. It was boazded at
about 4:00 a.m. He found out later he was charged to secure the building. If he had known this,
he would have gotten lus own wood.
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Page 2
Gerry Strathman asked why the 9nc,�ran� wouid not pay for it. Mr. Boeltl responded they paid
for the contents of the garage. They paid $8300 and it cost $8800 to rebuild it. Also, there are
not many people roaming the streets at 230 a.m, Mr. Strathman responded the Fire Department
has orders not to leave the property unsecured because the City is liable if something happens.
Mr. Bcelfl responded he has seen garages open. Steve Magner stated the Fire Department will
not leave a scene without securing it, particulazly an arson, because it is technically a crime
scene.
Mr. Strathman asked about the number of boazds. Mr. Magner responded there were nine boards
and a secure. The cost reflects what the contractor did. Mr. Strathman explained that annually
the City puts out an RFP (Request for Proposal) for people who want to do these emergency
boardings.
Boeld quesrioned the cost, which is $745. Mr. Magner responded the cost includes the
following: nine boazds at $50 a piece, securing one door, the trip charge of $200, and $45
service fee.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1165 Hudson Road (301BDL3P)
(Note: 1165 Hudson has two summary abatements. JOl SUM has already been ratified by the
City Council. The secretary made a mistake, and it should have been laid over. Both
assessments will be discussed here.)
Gerald Frisch, 2350 W. 7`� Street, owner, appeazed and stated he is a developer and attorney. He
is the owner of this property and is in partnership with the City of St. Paul PED (Planning and
Economic Development). He is preparing to go before the Metropolitan Planning Commission
for money to clean up the site, which has been vacant for a year. He has worked with
Councilmember Lantry's office, Brian Sweeney (PED}, Sheryl Pemberton (PED), the
neighborhood, and the district council. Mr. Frisch has a contract for someone to clean up the
property. Mr. Frisch has cooperated with the City to have snow dumped there this year. He does
not think he should have tius assessment because he has no knowledge of tlus work being done
by the City. Whenever he received notices, it is taken care of. If this is something that slipped
through the cracks, he should not have a further assessment. He is in the process of arranging for
the demolition of this building and the construction of senior housing.
Gerry Stratbman stated orders were sent on August I1, 20, and September 5. Mr. Frisch
responded that each time, the problem has been cleared. Dumping is done there a11 the time. He
has spent about $S,OOO last year in removing debris that ott�er people have brought onto the
property.
Steve Magner stated there is a dumping problem there. There was a summary abatement issued
on 9-5-00 to cut the grass and secure the building. The grass was cut, but the building was still
open to access. Code Enforcement tried to contact the owner. Mr. Frisch never sent back the
vacant building registration form or the $20 vacant building fee. Code Enforcement just has the
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Page 3
company name and could not find the phone number; therefore, the inspectoi could not speak to
anyone verbally. The clean up was $18.98 plus the $45 administrative charges.
(A videotape was shown)
Mr. Frisch stated there is no doubt that new debris was delivered tfiere, but nothing shows it was
there for an e�ctended period of time. He is paying $22,000 in taYes, has undertaken a major
renovation in Saint Paul, and is entifled to certain consideration by the City.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. Notice was given and the work was
done. Mr. Magner stated he has talked to Mr. Frisch a number of times about this issue. The
parties that aze opening his mail should fill out the vacant building registcation form properly,
and then Code Enforcement would have documentation of phone numbers so that someone could
be called to avoid future assessments.
615 Charles Avenue (JO101 V)
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1835 St. Clair Avenue (J01 SiJM)
(No one appeared to represent the properry.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
?07 Jessamine Avenue East (J01 SiJNn
Va Yang, owner, appeazed and stated he did not receive notice. The couch and refrigerntor had
only been there for a few days.
John Betz repofted a notice was mailed on 10-18-00 for rubbish, discarded furniture, and
appliances in yard to be removed by 10-24-00. Mr. Yang responded he cleans the yazd every
week.
(A videotape was shown.)
Gerry S4athman recommends approval of the assessment. A notice was sent by U.S. Mail,
wluch is considered delivery by law. It is unknown why Mr. Yang did not receive it. The City
did the work.
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF APRII, 17, 2001
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Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the bnilding at 2257 Hillside Avenue. If
the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the
bnilding.
(Laid over from 2-13-01)
(Photographs were presented and later returned.)
Jennifer Benzel, U.S. Bank National Association, appeazed. Ms. Benzel stated there was a
foreclosure sale on 3-2-01. The property owners filed an affidavit saying the property was not
abandoned. The owners have a full redemption rights of six months before U.S. Bank can do
anything with the properiy. If the property is not redeemed, U.S. Bank will continue forward
with their pian, which is to get the property mazketed and sold. They have people interested in
the property.
Gerry Strathman stated the property has an abandoned look to it. He asked clid the owners say
what they intended to do with the building. Ms. Benzel responded their attomey filed an
affidavit essentially saying it was not abandoned.
Steve Magner stated he was surprised that the mortgagee filed that affidavit. The property has
been neglected for a long time. Prior to the mortgage company taking caze of the outside of the
property, the City had to do it. Mr. Magner does not see the benefit of giving the owner more
leeway. The pmperty is in d"ue straits. Ms. Benzel responded U.S. Bank will continue to take
caze of the properry. The redemption period will end 9-2-01. They aze bound by law.
Mr. Strathman stated he wanted to be clear on the maintenance of the exterior. Ms. Benzel
responded U.S. bank has secured the building, taken caze ofthe sidewalks, and will be taking
care of the lawn throughout the summer.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the September 18, 2001, Legislative Hearing on
condition that the exterior of the building is maintained.
� Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 964 Woodbridge Street.
If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove
the buildiag. .
(Laid over from 2-20-01)
(Steve Magner presented photographs.)
Steve Magner reported the last time tlus was laid over was for the closing of a sale. The new
owner is required to post a bond and will be granted 180 days to complete rehabilitation of this
property.
Yee Fang appeared and stated he talked to Mr. Magrer yesterday.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner six months to complete rehabilitation of the
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 5
properiy on condition that a$2,000 bond is posted by noon of April 25, 2001. Mr. Magner added
that if a bond is not posted, the resolution will revert back to removing the building within fifteen
days.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 923 Galtier Street. If the
owner faiLs to compty with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the
bnilding
(Laid over from 2-20-01)
Wally Nelson, Box 836, Lake Elmo, appeared and stated he was here previously and asked for a
layover. By the time it gets to the City Council, he hopes to haue this matter settled. He is not
looking for additional time.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner 1 SO days to complete rehabilitation of the
properry on condition that the following is done by noon of May 2, 2001: 1) obtain permits, 2)
post a $2,000 bond.
Summary Abatement Appeal for 980 Euclid Street (JO15iJM).
(Note: this was on the 4-3-01 Legislative Hearing agenda; the City Council referred this
property back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.)
Renee McKinney, owner, appeared and stated she has no recollection of a cleanup. Also, she did
not receive a notice. Mr. Strathman responded notice was sent on 7-10-00, and the cleanup was
done on'7-21-00.
(Ms. McKinney was shown a copy of the notice and received a copy.)
(A videotape was shown.}
Ms. McKinney stated there aze two properties shown, A tree fell in her yazd and she had it cut
down. Her electric box had to be replaced. The wood logs from the tree aze hers. The debris
azound it is not.
John Betz stated he could go to the property and look at the situation. There is always a
possibility that the wrong property was cited.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing. If the owner
is not happy with the solu6on Mr. Betz proposes, she can return on May 15.
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Summary Abatements:
J0102A
J0102V
JOlO1B
SSWREPAIii
Page 6
Property clean-np during January 2001 and part of Febraary 2001.
Towiug of abanduned vehicles from private property dnring October and
November 2000. Additional properties to be assessed are: 873 Marion
Stree towed November 1999; S10 Sherburne Conwav. 2052
Fairmount towed Jannary 2000; Minnehaha towed March 2000; 45
Winona and 1037 Payne. towed April 2000.
Boarding up of vacant properties during November and December 2000.
Sanitary sewer service repairs
927 Hudson Road (J0102A)
(The owner appeazed for the property; however, Code Enforcement had not received the green
card indicating this address would be appealed.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
915 Agate Street (J0102V)
(No one appeazed to represent the properry.)
John Betz reported there seemed to be confusion at the Impound Lot; this assessment may not be
warranted. He suggested a layover.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
1787 Ames Avenue (SSWREPAIR)
(No one appeared to represent the properry, and the appeal was denied. However, the owner
called Mr. Strathman after the meeting and requested that she be heard at another legislative
hearing. Therefore, Mr. Sh�athman changed his recommendation.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislarive Hearing.
416 Chazles Avenue (J0102A)
(No one appeared to represent this property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
958 Marvland Avenue East (J0102A)
Thomas and Lola Alvazado, owners, appeared. Ms. Alvarado stated they never received a nodce.
5he thinks the items aze from the neighbors. She does not have access to that side of the garage
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
where this cleanup was done.
(A videotape was shown.)
Page 7
Mr. Alvarado stated that is not his property. If he had received notice, he would have cleaned it.
They have no tires in their garage.
{Mr. Betz showed a photograph.)
After viewing the photograph, Gerry Strathman stated the trash is right against the garage. Mr.
Alvarado responded he did not know that was their properry. Ms. Alvarado stated she had a
realtor look at the site and she was told that is their groperty line; however, that is not their
garbage. She does not have access to that side of the garage. The next door neighbors enter that
side and pazk there. The Alvarados aze on the other side of the gazage. They drive a 1999
vehicle and would have no business with six tires on that side of the gazage. The neighbors
continue to dump gazbage. The Alvarados installed a temporary fencing.
Mr. Strathman asked did they receive notice. Ms. Alvazado responded no and she is home
everyday and gets the mail everyday.
John Betz reported there was a probiem with ownership information received from Ramsey
County for about two months. The notice was sent to the Hudsons. Ms. Alvazado responded that
is who the house was purchased from.
Gerry Strathman recommends deleting the assessment because of a notification problem. He
warned the owners that they aze responsible for what is on their properry whether it is their
garage or not. Ms. Alvazado stated they pian to install a privacy fence.
754 Minnehaha Avenue West (SSWREPAIR)
Cameron Lepisto, owner, appeazed and stated he had sewer problems. He received a notice to
get it repaired, whieh he did. Within a week, he got a notice that more sewer work needed to be
done on the second half. He would like any duplication of charges to be taken off his
assessment.
John Betz reported that there was a break in the sewer line discovered by the Sewer Division of
Public Works. Someone contacted Code Enforcement to have the work done so it could be
billed as an assessment. The conrtactor went to Public Works and was told the break was in the
middle of the street and the service to the properry had fallen off the main sewer system. The
coniractor completed the work. As he was getting in his huck, he found rodent holes in the
boulevazd. Unbeknownst to him, the building is serviced by two separate lines. He proceeded to
repair it.
Mr. Betz called the contractor and asked him if he could have done it all at one time and how
much were the duplication costs. The contractor stated it would have been between $200 to $300
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
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to bring all the equipment back again. The Sewer Division informed the contractor there was one
sewer line going to the building when actually there was two. The contractor could have done
them both at the same time.
Gerry Strathman recommends reducing the assessment by $300 for a total assessment of
$6,825.02.
1027 Pazk Street (J0102A)
(No one appeazed to represent the properry.)
Gerry Strattunan recommends approval of the assessment.
1037 Pavne Street (70102V)
(No one appeared to represent the properry.)
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
596 Portland Avenue (J0102A)
Raymond Heichel, owner, appeazed and stated he purchased a refrigerator at Twin City
Appliance. They were to pick up the old refrigerator, but they could not do it that day. If Mr.
Heichel had been given a notice, he would have taken the refrigerator to them.
John Betz reported his office issued a notice on 12-28-00 to discard a refrigerator, doors, rubbish
with a compliance date of 1-4-01. The City removed the refrigerator on 1-10-01. An inspector
lrnocked on the door and received no answer. (Mr. Betz showed Mr. Heichel a copy of the
notice.)
Mr. Heichel stated sometimes lus mail goes to another address, and the mail is not brought back.
He asked that this assessment be waived. Mr. Strathman responded that he could not do that
because his records show that the notice was sent.
Mr. Betz asked does he lives at 59b Portland. Mr. Heichel responded he does, but sometimes he
is not there. Mr. Strathman asked was he gone during Christmas. Mr. Heichel responded yes.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. Notification was sent and the work
was done. Legal requirement is to send it by U.S. mail.
675 Sherburne Avenue (J0102A)
(No one appeazed to represent the properiy.)
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINITTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
730 Sherburne Avenue
(Note: this address was levied on 4-4-01.}
(No one appeared to represent the properiy.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
687 Western Avenue North (J0102�
.,:_ .
Anthony Oji, owner, appeazed and stated he cannot get a title on the vehicle. The caz was taken
away from the pazking lot and then he was told to come here.
John Betz reported there were no current plates on the vehicle. The City considers a vehicle
abandoned if the plates aze more than 90 days old and the vehicle is inoperable, unsecured. If
they aze in these conditions, the vehicle has to be kept in a garage. On 10-7-00, an inspector
found three vehicles and none had plates. Notice was sent to Mr. Oji to bring it into compliance,
remove them, or gazage them by 10-21-00. The inspector was back on 10-23-00 and one vehicle
remained. The inspector tried to call Mr. Oji, but the phone system would not accept
unidentified calls, which come out of the police facility. A work order was sent to the Police
Department, and they impounded the vehicle.
Mr. Strathman asked how long did he have the car before it was towed. Mr. Oji responded since
August 8. Mr. Strathman stated it was three months waiting for repair. Under the City's law,
vehicles cannot be stored outdoors.
Mr. Betz stated he is not aware of what happens when a vehicle is purchased from the Impound
Lot. He asked was there any temporary licensing situation. (Mr. Betz looked at the paperwork
provided by Mr. Oji.)
Gerry Slrathman recommends reducing the assessment from $637.10 to $400.00 plus the $45.00
service fee for a total assessment of $445.00. The owner was notified properly and the vehicle
was improperly stored; however, the vehicle charge is too high.
336 Lafond Avenue (J0102A)
Edgaz Poland and his daughter appeared. The daughter stated there was a fire on a Saturday
afternoon. She heard the fire trucks, realized it was her father's house, and went to the house.
She told the firemen she would board the properry. When she got back, the house was already
boarded. She did not think much about it because her father was having open heart surgery at the
time. The fuemen threw out some debris onto the sidewalk. When she got there Monday
moming, the debris was gone and there was a bill on one of the windows. She is protesting that
she was there at the scene, was willing to do the work, the work was done without her
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 1'7, 2001 Page 10
knowledge, and the bill was for over $900. Steve Magner reported the boazd up is not on the
agenda today; the only item on the agenda today is the cleanup for $334.
Steve Magner reported the fire occurred on 2-3-01. There was debris all over the sidewaik. It
was a hazard because of the items that were used to put out the fire. Code Enforcement tried to
contact the owner, but were unable to reach him. An emergency summary abatement was issued
to clean up the sidewalk. Mr. Magner posted a copy on the door at 12:45 p.m. indicating the
action would be taken. Parks and Recreation went out that aftemoon to do the cleanup. The
work was done on 2-5-01.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. The actions the City took were
reasonable and appropriate under the circumstances.
543 Van Buren Avenue (JOlO1B)
(No one appeared to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
609 Smith Avenue South (JOl OlB)
(No one appeazed-to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
675 Portiand Avenue (30101B)
Lois Casey, owner, appeazed and stated she was awakened about her gazage being on fire. She
told the Fire Departmem that she would lock up the garage. The garage was boazded the nest
moming without her consent. Used wood was put on the gazage, it was put on at an angle, and is
not covering the entire hole. Gerry Strathman responded the wood is trivial. The real chazge is
for the contractor coming out in the middle of the night.
Ms. Casey stated her insurance company said they would pay the fee. Mr. Magner responded
most insurance companies pick up the cost of securing the property to stop further degradation.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1236 Seventh Street
East. If the owner fails to comply with the order, Code Enforeement is ordered to remove
tLe building.
(Steve Magner presented photographs.)
Robert and Mazlyn Weber, owners, appeazed.
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTT'ES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 11
Steve Magner reported the certificate of occupancy was revoked in 1995. Seven summary
abatement notices have been issued to remove vehicles, cut grass, remove tires, secure building,
remove snow. On 1-31-01, an inspection ofthe building was conducted, a list of deficiencies
which constitute a nuisance conditions was developed, and photographs were taken. Vacant
building fees have ben paid. Real estate tazes are unpaid in the amount of $2,564. Taxation has
placed an estimated mazket value of $74,800 on this properry. As of 417-01, a code compliance
inspection has not been applied for, and a$2,000 bond has not bene posted. The cost to repair is
estimated at $80,000 to $100, 000; cost to demolish, $16,000 to $18,000.
Ms. Weber stated she is looking for an extension of time because they aze planning to sell the
properry. If things were posted, sometimes they aze taken off of the building. The first letter they
received was in February and forwarded to them in Alabama. It got there four days after the
inspection. She wrote a letter on 2-21-01 to inform the City that she would like this matter put
on hold until they return on Apri14. She received a letter delivered by hand about this hearing.
She didn't see anything posted on the building. She would like some time to contact the realtor
and to get some idea of the value. It is a sound building. They were worried about the roof
caving in during the winter, but it didn't.
Gerry Strathman asked how long it would take to sell trris building. Ms. Weber stated she did not
know. Mr. Weber responded three months.
Mr. Magner reported there were a number of complaints about this property over the years. The
certificate of occupancy was revoked in 1995 by the Fire Department for failure to bring the
building into compliance, which means the building cannot be used far any form of occupancy.
Code Enforcement mailed out a vacant building registration notice. Mr. Magner had a
conversation with the owners on 5-24-00. At that time, they wanted to sell the building and to
figvre out what they needed to do. Mr. Magner stated he would hold off enforcement of the
vacant building fees for 90 days provided they fill out the vacant building nofice. At the end of
the 90 days, the understanding was the owners were to submit a plan for the structure. Finally,
they paid the fees on 7-28-00. At that time, they said they would sell as is. Mr. Magner does not
see any cooperation from the owners.
Ms. Weber asked about the cazs. Mr. Strathman responded that is not before lvm today. Today,
we are talldng about whether the City will order the building removed. If the City proceeds with
this action, the City will demolish the properiy, and the owners will have a vacant lot and a bill.
Ms. Weber stated she would like e�rtra time to sell the property. Mr. Strathman responded this
has gone on for a long time. He will allow 60 days.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the June 19, 2001, Legisla6ve Hearing.
Appeal of Summary Abatemeat Order for 775 Ashland Avenue.
Dr. James Shelton, owner, appeazed and stated he had a garage that went down because of the
ice. He has insurance, a claim number, an adjuster. He is suppose to have a check coming in the
�i1-1'��
LEGISLATNE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 12
mail for repairing the garage. He is upset because so many people at today's hearing got layovers
and time extensions. An inspector came out to his properry on a Wednesday, an abatement order
was mailed on Thursday, and Mr. Shelton is suppose to have the building down on Monday. He
feels t1�at is ridiculous. All the people on the agenda had more time tban he. Also, he filed the
appeal on Apri19, and he received a letter dated March 2. ('The secretary responded that it was a
error from the Citizen Service Office.)
Gerry Strathman asked when the building collapsed. Mr. Shelton responded he did not l�ow.
Snow was still on the ground. The garage is on his property, and he does not understand what is
going on.
(John Betz presented a photograph, which was later returned.)
Mr. Betz stated this was called in from concerned neighbors. Code Enforcement feels it is a
dangerous situation. Children do not pay attention to property lines, and this has the potential of
collapsing on a child. Code Enforcement considered it dangerous enough to give the owner the
minimum amount of time. Code Enforcement wants it Imocked down. It does not have to be
taken away. Mr. Shelton responded it is braced against the walis and it will not fall down.
Mr. Strathman asked when he will get rid of it. Mr. Shelton responded as soon as the check
comes, which he should have any day. Mr. Strathman responded he would like something more
definite.
Mr. Strathman asked can it be down by the end of the week. Mr. Shelton responded he can try.
He has to pay someone to do it, and he does not have the check yet.
Mr. Strathman stated the City now knows there is a situation and there is an inspector that
believes it to be dangerous. If there is an accident at that properry, whoever suffers as a result of
that accident will sue the City saying the City knew it was a hazardous situation and did not take
effective action to remedy it. The City is exposed legally as long as this situation exists. Mr.
Strathman wants to be fair with the owner and also limit the City's legal exposure. Mr. Shelton
would be named in a lawsuit as well. There is a common interest to get this dangerous situation
remedied.
Gerry Strathman recommends amending the Summary Abatement Order compliance date to
Apri124, 2001. The owner should remedy the danger by that time. If something is preventing
the owner from demolishing the property, Mr. Betz should be catled to access the situation and
he will give more time if he feels it is necessary.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:20 p.m.
�
,� �. � , �
Presented By
Referred To
Council File # O � —\'»-
��en��- ��� �., ac.o�
Green Sheet # ) o a,3 � .�
RESOLUTION
1 OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA
3 �I
Committee: Date
1 WF3EREAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement 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 two-story, wood frame duplex and detached, two-stall, wood frame garage located on property
4 hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Property" and commonly known as 964 Woodbridge Street. This
5 property is legally described as follows, to wit:
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All of Lot 8 and the South 7 feet of Lot 9, Block 44, Auerbach & Hands Addition to the City
of St. Paul.
WHEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and information
obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before September 20, 2000, the following are the now
known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Property: Duane Thomas Severin, 790 Carla Lane,
Little Canada, MN 55109; Ann Severin, 66 9"' Street East, St. Paul, MN 55102
WHEREAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code an order identified as an "Order to Abate Nuisance
Building(s)" dated November 14, 2000; and
WHEREAS, this order informed the then lrnown interested or responsible parties that the structure
located on the Subject Property is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and
WHEREAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or
demolish the shucture located on the Subject Property by December 14, 2000; and
WHEREAS, the enforcement officer has posted a placard on the Subject Property declaring this
building(s) to consritute a nuisance condition; subject to demolition; and
WHEREAS, this nuisance condition has not been corrected and Division of Code Enforcement
requested that the City Clerk schedule public hearings before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the City
Council and the Saint Paul City Council; and
WHEREAS, the interested and responsible parties have been served notice in accordance with the
provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, of the time, date, place and purpose of the
public hearings; and
WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City
Council on Tuesday, January 16, 2001 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 Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, healtti, 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 altemative by demolishing and removing the structure in
accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the shucture to be
completed within�een-��Kj d�ay� after the date of the Council Aearing; and � � . � o ,,
� r� n� h.,,� � e. �,�.� C.��o) w,�
- .. � a,E�.ou oa.. es� _ � noaN �!l a
� �"'?. t Pi i p i,+ �i � 0 ����7"
Lv � i�� i S r 4 '� i
1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, Februa.ry 7,
2 2001 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was
considered by the Council; now therefore
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 concerning
7 the Subject Property at 964 Woodbridge Street:
1.
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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 estunated to exceed three
thousand dollars ($3,000.00).
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 building(s).
That the deficiencies causing this nuisance conditaon haue not been corrected.
That Division of Code Enforcement has posted a placard on the Subj ect 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 laiown interested parties and owners are as previously stated in this resolution and
that the notification requirements of Chapter 45 have been fulfilled.
ORDER
The Saint Paul City Council hereby makes the following order:
1. The above referenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not
detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the
community by rehabilitating this structure and correcting all deficiencies as prescribed in the above
referenced Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) in accordance with all applicable codes and
ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the shucture in accordance with all
applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition and removal of the structure
must be completed withi �€efteexr(�Sj�days after the date of the Council Hearing.
o.1e h�.v. <� <: � - L — �2- � o�
2. If the above corrective action is not completed wit �iun 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 Legislarive Code.
s� "� s � �; � 1
� �I
�-.,,' � � � � .
01-\1�
1 3. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the Ciry of Saint Paul, all personal
2 property or fixtures of any kind which interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed
3 from the property by the responsible parties by the end of this rime period. If all personai properiy
4 is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and
5 dispose of such properiy as provided by law.
6
7 4. It is further 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.
Adopted by Council: Date (� 2-cyo�
Adoption Certified by Council Secret
�
Requested by Department o£
Citizen Service Office; Code Enforcement
BY: �i�N�-0� V��'��`--�1
Form Approved by City Attorney
�
✓
Approved by Mayor: Date � �l
By: �-fd"
Approved by Mayar for Submission to Council
B C�� 4�G
Division of Code Enforcement � 12/22/00
bNTACf PERSON 8 PFiOME �
Michael R. Morehead 266-8439 ��
iusr ee ori cou�c��acemn er lw�l
Wednesday, February 7, 2001, �'
wxmec ron
rt01(fYiG
OROBt
TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES
GREEN SHEET
��� : :
6 t -�sr
No 1 a��23
� arv..rouEr �_ ❑ rnrasuc _
ua
❑nn+�wccw.m�xcvon. ❑wuwu��aEa�n�ccro
� 11AVaRMRAiMAIm � ❑
(CLJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR�
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 compiy with the resolution, the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is ozdered
to remove the building. The subject property is located at 964 Woodbridge Street.
PLANNING CAMMISSION
CIB CAMMITTEE
CML SERVICE COMMISSION
ws ws persoruhrm everxa� wqer a connaa ror mis.deaammema
YES NO
tias mia pweaJfmm ewtea� a aly anpbyee9
YES NO
Does tlus PeisoNfiim Y�ess a sloll rwt �armallypossesc�,M bY any cunent cnY emPbYee?
11��i �7
Is Mis pnaoM�m a tarpMed vendaYt
YES MO
Jain all ves artav.e�s m seoa2le sM�
VITIA7ING PROBLEM ISSUE. OPPORTUNITY (Who. WImC When.lNhere. WhY)
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 l�own to the Enforcement
Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 964:Woodbtidge Street by December 14, 2000,
and have failed to comply with those orders.
�.:-. ,.
�������
The City will eliminate a nuisance.
JAi� �� 2�;?�
CITY ,��T���E�'
IISADVANTAGES IF PPPROVED
The City wili spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs will be assessed to the property,
collected as a s ecial assessment against the roperty ta�ces.
)ISADVANTAG6IFNOTAPPROVED ' - � ' �
A nuisance condition will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community.
TRANSACTION t � �
\ . � ' . � � • � � . ' u ' �
COST/itE1lEHUE BUD6ETID (GRCLE ON� ( YES I �
ACTIVITYNtl1�FR ��Z.Fi�
�"Q{�' a����fCi4 {
9n�,a . fi ��U�
ur �'..: .. �
Council File #
MINUTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING
D 1 -���-
Tuesday, Apri117, 2001
Room 330 Coutthouse
Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing O�cer
STAFF PRESENT: John Betz, Code Enforcement; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement
The meeting was called to order at 10:02 am.
Laid over snmmary abatements from the City Council Meeting of Apri14, 2001
File JO1L0 Boarding-np ofvacant buildings at the following addresses: 136 Wilder
Street,119'7 Ross Avenue,1165 Hndson Road
Abandoned vehicle at the following address: 615 Charles Avenne
Property Clean-up at the following addresses: 1835 St. Clair Avenue, 707
Jessamine Avenue East
136 Wilder Street North (JOIBDUP)
James Fitzpatrick, owner, stated he is being charged with boazding up a gazage door. He had
some personal injuries, which delayed him closing up the gazage. Also, it took a week to get a
garage door ordered and installed.
Steve Magner reported he issued a summary abatement order on 8-31-00 to secure the gazage.
On 9-7-00, one window was boazded, but the vacant building placazds were torn down. The
work order was sent on 9-13-00 about a wide open vehicle door, attached garage. There was no
response from the owner. On 12-9-00, the garage was still open. The inspector tried to contact
the properry owner and left a detailed message.
(Mr. Magner showed a photograph.)
Gerry Strathman stated the owner had a couple of weeks to make the repair and staff attempted to
contact him. It is uncleaz why the repair was not made. Mr. Fitzpatrick responded he was
injured while doing the work, which delayed it. Also, he had no problem with the door. Mr.
Strathman explained that the City code requires that all buildings be secured and access restricted
to prevent them &om being an attra�ctive nuisance for �hildren, vagrants, criminals, etc.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1197 Ross Avenue (JOIBDUP)
Mark Boeltl, owner, appeared and stated he had an arson on his gazage on 10-30-00. The Fire
Department got done about 2:00 a.m. and said they had to secure the building. It was boazded at
about 4:00 a.m. He found out later he was charged to secure the building. If he had known this,
he would have gotten lus own wood.
6 ( ' � �2—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Page 2
Gerry Strathman asked why the 9nc,�ran� wouid not pay for it. Mr. Boeltl responded they paid
for the contents of the garage. They paid $8300 and it cost $8800 to rebuild it. Also, there are
not many people roaming the streets at 230 a.m, Mr. Strathman responded the Fire Department
has orders not to leave the property unsecured because the City is liable if something happens.
Mr. Bcelfl responded he has seen garages open. Steve Magner stated the Fire Department will
not leave a scene without securing it, particulazly an arson, because it is technically a crime
scene.
Mr. Strathman asked about the number of boazds. Mr. Magner responded there were nine boards
and a secure. The cost reflects what the contractor did. Mr. Strathman explained that annually
the City puts out an RFP (Request for Proposal) for people who want to do these emergency
boardings.
Boeld quesrioned the cost, which is $745. Mr. Magner responded the cost includes the
following: nine boazds at $50 a piece, securing one door, the trip charge of $200, and $45
service fee.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1165 Hudson Road (301BDL3P)
(Note: 1165 Hudson has two summary abatements. JOl SUM has already been ratified by the
City Council. The secretary made a mistake, and it should have been laid over. Both
assessments will be discussed here.)
Gerald Frisch, 2350 W. 7`� Street, owner, appeazed and stated he is a developer and attorney. He
is the owner of this property and is in partnership with the City of St. Paul PED (Planning and
Economic Development). He is preparing to go before the Metropolitan Planning Commission
for money to clean up the site, which has been vacant for a year. He has worked with
Councilmember Lantry's office, Brian Sweeney (PED}, Sheryl Pemberton (PED), the
neighborhood, and the district council. Mr. Frisch has a contract for someone to clean up the
property. Mr. Frisch has cooperated with the City to have snow dumped there this year. He does
not think he should have tius assessment because he has no knowledge of tlus work being done
by the City. Whenever he received notices, it is taken care of. If this is something that slipped
through the cracks, he should not have a further assessment. He is in the process of arranging for
the demolition of this building and the construction of senior housing.
Gerry Stratbman stated orders were sent on August I1, 20, and September 5. Mr. Frisch
responded that each time, the problem has been cleared. Dumping is done there a11 the time. He
has spent about $S,OOO last year in removing debris that ott�er people have brought onto the
property.
Steve Magner stated there is a dumping problem there. There was a summary abatement issued
on 9-5-00 to cut the grass and secure the building. The grass was cut, but the building was still
open to access. Code Enforcement tried to contact the owner. Mr. Frisch never sent back the
vacant building registration form or the $20 vacant building fee. Code Enforcement just has the
D l -1��
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Page 3
company name and could not find the phone number; therefore, the inspectoi could not speak to
anyone verbally. The clean up was $18.98 plus the $45 administrative charges.
(A videotape was shown)
Mr. Frisch stated there is no doubt that new debris was delivered tfiere, but nothing shows it was
there for an e�ctended period of time. He is paying $22,000 in taYes, has undertaken a major
renovation in Saint Paul, and is entifled to certain consideration by the City.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. Notice was given and the work was
done. Mr. Magner stated he has talked to Mr. Frisch a number of times about this issue. The
parties that aze opening his mail should fill out the vacant building registcation form properly,
and then Code Enforcement would have documentation of phone numbers so that someone could
be called to avoid future assessments.
615 Charles Avenue (JO101 V)
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1835 St. Clair Avenue (J01 SiJM)
(No one appeared to represent the properry.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
?07 Jessamine Avenue East (J01 SiJNn
Va Yang, owner, appeazed and stated he did not receive notice. The couch and refrigerntor had
only been there for a few days.
John Betz repofted a notice was mailed on 10-18-00 for rubbish, discarded furniture, and
appliances in yard to be removed by 10-24-00. Mr. Yang responded he cleans the yazd every
week.
(A videotape was shown.)
Gerry S4athman recommends approval of the assessment. A notice was sent by U.S. Mail,
wluch is considered delivery by law. It is unknown why Mr. Yang did not receive it. The City
did the work.
0 t - 12-'a—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF APRII, 17, 2001
�
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the bnilding at 2257 Hillside Avenue. If
the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the
bnilding.
(Laid over from 2-13-01)
(Photographs were presented and later returned.)
Jennifer Benzel, U.S. Bank National Association, appeazed. Ms. Benzel stated there was a
foreclosure sale on 3-2-01. The property owners filed an affidavit saying the property was not
abandoned. The owners have a full redemption rights of six months before U.S. Bank can do
anything with the properiy. If the property is not redeemed, U.S. Bank will continue forward
with their pian, which is to get the property mazketed and sold. They have people interested in
the property.
Gerry Strathman stated the property has an abandoned look to it. He asked clid the owners say
what they intended to do with the building. Ms. Benzel responded their attomey filed an
affidavit essentially saying it was not abandoned.
Steve Magner stated he was surprised that the mortgagee filed that affidavit. The property has
been neglected for a long time. Prior to the mortgage company taking caze of the outside of the
property, the City had to do it. Mr. Magner does not see the benefit of giving the owner more
leeway. The pmperty is in d"ue straits. Ms. Benzel responded U.S. Bank will continue to take
caze of the properry. The redemption period will end 9-2-01. They aze bound by law.
Mr. Strathman stated he wanted to be clear on the maintenance of the exterior. Ms. Benzel
responded U.S. bank has secured the building, taken caze ofthe sidewalks, and will be taking
care of the lawn throughout the summer.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the September 18, 2001, Legislative Hearing on
condition that the exterior of the building is maintained.
� Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 964 Woodbridge Street.
If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove
the buildiag. .
(Laid over from 2-20-01)
(Steve Magner presented photographs.)
Steve Magner reported the last time tlus was laid over was for the closing of a sale. The new
owner is required to post a bond and will be granted 180 days to complete rehabilitation of this
property.
Yee Fang appeared and stated he talked to Mr. Magrer yesterday.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner six months to complete rehabilitation of the
D f- I 2- 2-
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 5
properiy on condition that a$2,000 bond is posted by noon of April 25, 2001. Mr. Magner added
that if a bond is not posted, the resolution will revert back to removing the building within fifteen
days.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 923 Galtier Street. If the
owner faiLs to compty with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the
bnilding
(Laid over from 2-20-01)
Wally Nelson, Box 836, Lake Elmo, appeared and stated he was here previously and asked for a
layover. By the time it gets to the City Council, he hopes to haue this matter settled. He is not
looking for additional time.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner 1 SO days to complete rehabilitation of the
properry on condition that the following is done by noon of May 2, 2001: 1) obtain permits, 2)
post a $2,000 bond.
Summary Abatement Appeal for 980 Euclid Street (JO15iJM).
(Note: this was on the 4-3-01 Legislative Hearing agenda; the City Council referred this
property back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.)
Renee McKinney, owner, appeared and stated she has no recollection of a cleanup. Also, she did
not receive a notice. Mr. Strathman responded notice was sent on 7-10-00, and the cleanup was
done on'7-21-00.
(Ms. McKinney was shown a copy of the notice and received a copy.)
(A videotape was shown.}
Ms. McKinney stated there aze two properties shown, A tree fell in her yazd and she had it cut
down. Her electric box had to be replaced. The wood logs from the tree aze hers. The debris
azound it is not.
John Betz stated he could go to the property and look at the situation. There is always a
possibility that the wrong property was cited.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing. If the owner
is not happy with the solu6on Mr. Betz proposes, she can return on May 15.
d�-�aa
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Summary Abatements:
J0102A
J0102V
JOlO1B
SSWREPAIii
Page 6
Property clean-np during January 2001 and part of Febraary 2001.
Towiug of abanduned vehicles from private property dnring October and
November 2000. Additional properties to be assessed are: 873 Marion
Stree towed November 1999; S10 Sherburne Conwav. 2052
Fairmount towed Jannary 2000; Minnehaha towed March 2000; 45
Winona and 1037 Payne. towed April 2000.
Boarding up of vacant properties during November and December 2000.
Sanitary sewer service repairs
927 Hudson Road (J0102A)
(The owner appeazed for the property; however, Code Enforcement had not received the green
card indicating this address would be appealed.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
915 Agate Street (J0102V)
(No one appeazed to represent the properry.)
John Betz reported there seemed to be confusion at the Impound Lot; this assessment may not be
warranted. He suggested a layover.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
1787 Ames Avenue (SSWREPAIR)
(No one appeared to represent the properry, and the appeal was denied. However, the owner
called Mr. Strathman after the meeting and requested that she be heard at another legislative
hearing. Therefore, Mr. Sh�athman changed his recommendation.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislarive Hearing.
416 Chazles Avenue (J0102A)
(No one appeared to represent this property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
958 Marvland Avenue East (J0102A)
Thomas and Lola Alvazado, owners, appeared. Ms. Alvarado stated they never received a nodce.
5he thinks the items aze from the neighbors. She does not have access to that side of the garage
� � - � a-2—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
where this cleanup was done.
(A videotape was shown.)
Page 7
Mr. Alvarado stated that is not his property. If he had received notice, he would have cleaned it.
They have no tires in their garage.
{Mr. Betz showed a photograph.)
After viewing the photograph, Gerry Strathman stated the trash is right against the garage. Mr.
Alvarado responded he did not know that was their properry. Ms. Alvarado stated she had a
realtor look at the site and she was told that is their groperty line; however, that is not their
garbage. She does not have access to that side of the garage. The next door neighbors enter that
side and pazk there. The Alvarados aze on the other side of the gazage. They drive a 1999
vehicle and would have no business with six tires on that side of the gazage. The neighbors
continue to dump gazbage. The Alvarados installed a temporary fencing.
Mr. Strathman asked did they receive notice. Ms. Alvazado responded no and she is home
everyday and gets the mail everyday.
John Betz reported there was a probiem with ownership information received from Ramsey
County for about two months. The notice was sent to the Hudsons. Ms. Alvazado responded that
is who the house was purchased from.
Gerry Strathman recommends deleting the assessment because of a notification problem. He
warned the owners that they aze responsible for what is on their properry whether it is their
garage or not. Ms. Alvazado stated they pian to install a privacy fence.
754 Minnehaha Avenue West (SSWREPAIR)
Cameron Lepisto, owner, appeazed and stated he had sewer problems. He received a notice to
get it repaired, whieh he did. Within a week, he got a notice that more sewer work needed to be
done on the second half. He would like any duplication of charges to be taken off his
assessment.
John Betz reported that there was a break in the sewer line discovered by the Sewer Division of
Public Works. Someone contacted Code Enforcement to have the work done so it could be
billed as an assessment. The conrtactor went to Public Works and was told the break was in the
middle of the street and the service to the properry had fallen off the main sewer system. The
coniractor completed the work. As he was getting in his huck, he found rodent holes in the
boulevazd. Unbeknownst to him, the building is serviced by two separate lines. He proceeded to
repair it.
Mr. Betz called the contractor and asked him if he could have done it all at one time and how
much were the duplication costs. The contractor stated it would have been between $200 to $300
� { - } �- 2—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
�
to bring all the equipment back again. The Sewer Division informed the contractor there was one
sewer line going to the building when actually there was two. The contractor could have done
them both at the same time.
Gerry Strathman recommends reducing the assessment by $300 for a total assessment of
$6,825.02.
1027 Pazk Street (J0102A)
(No one appeazed to represent the properry.)
Gerry Strattunan recommends approval of the assessment.
1037 Pavne Street (70102V)
(No one appeared to represent the properry.)
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
596 Portland Avenue (J0102A)
Raymond Heichel, owner, appeazed and stated he purchased a refrigerator at Twin City
Appliance. They were to pick up the old refrigerator, but they could not do it that day. If Mr.
Heichel had been given a notice, he would have taken the refrigerator to them.
John Betz reported his office issued a notice on 12-28-00 to discard a refrigerator, doors, rubbish
with a compliance date of 1-4-01. The City removed the refrigerator on 1-10-01. An inspector
lrnocked on the door and received no answer. (Mr. Betz showed Mr. Heichel a copy of the
notice.)
Mr. Heichel stated sometimes lus mail goes to another address, and the mail is not brought back.
He asked that this assessment be waived. Mr. Strathman responded that he could not do that
because his records show that the notice was sent.
Mr. Betz asked does he lives at 59b Portland. Mr. Heichel responded he does, but sometimes he
is not there. Mr. Strathman asked was he gone during Christmas. Mr. Heichel responded yes.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. Notification was sent and the work
was done. Legal requirement is to send it by U.S. mail.
675 Sherburne Avenue (J0102A)
(No one appeazed to represent the properiy.)
01-��
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINITTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
730 Sherburne Avenue
(Note: this address was levied on 4-4-01.}
(No one appeared to represent the properiy.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
687 Western Avenue North (J0102�
.,:_ .
Anthony Oji, owner, appeazed and stated he cannot get a title on the vehicle. The caz was taken
away from the pazking lot and then he was told to come here.
John Betz reported there were no current plates on the vehicle. The City considers a vehicle
abandoned if the plates aze more than 90 days old and the vehicle is inoperable, unsecured. If
they aze in these conditions, the vehicle has to be kept in a garage. On 10-7-00, an inspector
found three vehicles and none had plates. Notice was sent to Mr. Oji to bring it into compliance,
remove them, or gazage them by 10-21-00. The inspector was back on 10-23-00 and one vehicle
remained. The inspector tried to call Mr. Oji, but the phone system would not accept
unidentified calls, which come out of the police facility. A work order was sent to the Police
Department, and they impounded the vehicle.
Mr. Strathman asked how long did he have the car before it was towed. Mr. Oji responded since
August 8. Mr. Strathman stated it was three months waiting for repair. Under the City's law,
vehicles cannot be stored outdoors.
Mr. Betz stated he is not aware of what happens when a vehicle is purchased from the Impound
Lot. He asked was there any temporary licensing situation. (Mr. Betz looked at the paperwork
provided by Mr. Oji.)
Gerry Slrathman recommends reducing the assessment from $637.10 to $400.00 plus the $45.00
service fee for a total assessment of $445.00. The owner was notified properly and the vehicle
was improperly stored; however, the vehicle charge is too high.
336 Lafond Avenue (J0102A)
Edgaz Poland and his daughter appeared. The daughter stated there was a fire on a Saturday
afternoon. She heard the fire trucks, realized it was her father's house, and went to the house.
She told the firemen she would board the properry. When she got back, the house was already
boarded. She did not think much about it because her father was having open heart surgery at the
time. The fuemen threw out some debris onto the sidewalk. When she got there Monday
moming, the debris was gone and there was a bill on one of the windows. She is protesting that
she was there at the scene, was willing to do the work, the work was done without her
� `- 122
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 1'7, 2001 Page 10
knowledge, and the bill was for over $900. Steve Magner reported the boazd up is not on the
agenda today; the only item on the agenda today is the cleanup for $334.
Steve Magner reported the fire occurred on 2-3-01. There was debris all over the sidewaik. It
was a hazard because of the items that were used to put out the fire. Code Enforcement tried to
contact the owner, but were unable to reach him. An emergency summary abatement was issued
to clean up the sidewalk. Mr. Magner posted a copy on the door at 12:45 p.m. indicating the
action would be taken. Parks and Recreation went out that aftemoon to do the cleanup. The
work was done on 2-5-01.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. The actions the City took were
reasonable and appropriate under the circumstances.
543 Van Buren Avenue (JOlO1B)
(No one appeared to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
609 Smith Avenue South (JOl OlB)
(No one appeazed-to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
675 Portiand Avenue (30101B)
Lois Casey, owner, appeazed and stated she was awakened about her gazage being on fire. She
told the Fire Departmem that she would lock up the garage. The garage was boazded the nest
moming without her consent. Used wood was put on the gazage, it was put on at an angle, and is
not covering the entire hole. Gerry Strathman responded the wood is trivial. The real chazge is
for the contractor coming out in the middle of the night.
Ms. Casey stated her insurance company said they would pay the fee. Mr. Magner responded
most insurance companies pick up the cost of securing the property to stop further degradation.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1236 Seventh Street
East. If the owner fails to comply with the order, Code Enforeement is ordered to remove
tLe building.
(Steve Magner presented photographs.)
Robert and Mazlyn Weber, owners, appeazed.
��-���
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTT'ES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 11
Steve Magner reported the certificate of occupancy was revoked in 1995. Seven summary
abatement notices have been issued to remove vehicles, cut grass, remove tires, secure building,
remove snow. On 1-31-01, an inspection ofthe building was conducted, a list of deficiencies
which constitute a nuisance conditions was developed, and photographs were taken. Vacant
building fees have ben paid. Real estate tazes are unpaid in the amount of $2,564. Taxation has
placed an estimated mazket value of $74,800 on this properry. As of 417-01, a code compliance
inspection has not been applied for, and a$2,000 bond has not bene posted. The cost to repair is
estimated at $80,000 to $100, 000; cost to demolish, $16,000 to $18,000.
Ms. Weber stated she is looking for an extension of time because they aze planning to sell the
properry. If things were posted, sometimes they aze taken off of the building. The first letter they
received was in February and forwarded to them in Alabama. It got there four days after the
inspection. She wrote a letter on 2-21-01 to inform the City that she would like this matter put
on hold until they return on Apri14. She received a letter delivered by hand about this hearing.
She didn't see anything posted on the building. She would like some time to contact the realtor
and to get some idea of the value. It is a sound building. They were worried about the roof
caving in during the winter, but it didn't.
Gerry Strathman asked how long it would take to sell trris building. Ms. Weber stated she did not
know. Mr. Weber responded three months.
Mr. Magner reported there were a number of complaints about this property over the years. The
certificate of occupancy was revoked in 1995 by the Fire Department for failure to bring the
building into compliance, which means the building cannot be used far any form of occupancy.
Code Enforcement mailed out a vacant building registration notice. Mr. Magner had a
conversation with the owners on 5-24-00. At that time, they wanted to sell the building and to
figvre out what they needed to do. Mr. Magner stated he would hold off enforcement of the
vacant building fees for 90 days provided they fill out the vacant building nofice. At the end of
the 90 days, the understanding was the owners were to submit a plan for the structure. Finally,
they paid the fees on 7-28-00. At that time, they said they would sell as is. Mr. Magner does not
see any cooperation from the owners.
Ms. Weber asked about the cazs. Mr. Strathman responded that is not before lvm today. Today,
we are talldng about whether the City will order the building removed. If the City proceeds with
this action, the City will demolish the properiy, and the owners will have a vacant lot and a bill.
Ms. Weber stated she would like e�rtra time to sell the property. Mr. Strathman responded this
has gone on for a long time. He will allow 60 days.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the June 19, 2001, Legisla6ve Hearing.
Appeal of Summary Abatemeat Order for 775 Ashland Avenue.
Dr. James Shelton, owner, appeazed and stated he had a garage that went down because of the
ice. He has insurance, a claim number, an adjuster. He is suppose to have a check coming in the
�i1-1'��
LEGISLATNE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 12
mail for repairing the garage. He is upset because so many people at today's hearing got layovers
and time extensions. An inspector came out to his properry on a Wednesday, an abatement order
was mailed on Thursday, and Mr. Shelton is suppose to have the building down on Monday. He
feels t1�at is ridiculous. All the people on the agenda had more time tban he. Also, he filed the
appeal on Apri19, and he received a letter dated March 2. ('The secretary responded that it was a
error from the Citizen Service Office.)
Gerry Strathman asked when the building collapsed. Mr. Shelton responded he did not l�ow.
Snow was still on the ground. The garage is on his property, and he does not understand what is
going on.
(John Betz presented a photograph, which was later returned.)
Mr. Betz stated this was called in from concerned neighbors. Code Enforcement feels it is a
dangerous situation. Children do not pay attention to property lines, and this has the potential of
collapsing on a child. Code Enforcement considered it dangerous enough to give the owner the
minimum amount of time. Code Enforcement wants it Imocked down. It does not have to be
taken away. Mr. Shelton responded it is braced against the walis and it will not fall down.
Mr. Strathman asked when he will get rid of it. Mr. Shelton responded as soon as the check
comes, which he should have any day. Mr. Strathman responded he would like something more
definite.
Mr. Strathman asked can it be down by the end of the week. Mr. Shelton responded he can try.
He has to pay someone to do it, and he does not have the check yet.
Mr. Strathman stated the City now knows there is a situation and there is an inspector that
believes it to be dangerous. If there is an accident at that properry, whoever suffers as a result of
that accident will sue the City saying the City knew it was a hazardous situation and did not take
effective action to remedy it. The City is exposed legally as long as this situation exists. Mr.
Strathman wants to be fair with the owner and also limit the City's legal exposure. Mr. Shelton
would be named in a lawsuit as well. There is a common interest to get this dangerous situation
remedied.
Gerry Strathman recommends amending the Summary Abatement Order compliance date to
Apri124, 2001. The owner should remedy the danger by that time. If something is preventing
the owner from demolishing the property, Mr. Betz should be catled to access the situation and
he will give more time if he feels it is necessary.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:20 p.m.
�
,� �. � , �
Presented By
Referred To
Council File # O � —\'»-
��en��- ��� �., ac.o�
Green Sheet # ) o a,3 � .�
RESOLUTION
1 OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA
3 �I
Committee: Date
1 WF3EREAS, Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement 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 two-story, wood frame duplex and detached, two-stall, wood frame garage located on property
4 hereinafter referred to as the "Subject Property" and commonly known as 964 Woodbridge Street. This
5 property is legally described as follows, to wit:
7
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
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18
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20
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24
25
26
27
28
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31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
All of Lot 8 and the South 7 feet of Lot 9, Block 44, Auerbach & Hands Addition to the City
of St. Paul.
WHEREAS, based upon the records in the Ramsey County Recorder's Office and information
obtained by Division of Code Enforcement on or before September 20, 2000, the following are the now
known interested or responsible parties for the Subject Property: Duane Thomas Severin, 790 Carla Lane,
Little Canada, MN 55109; Ann Severin, 66 9"' Street East, St. Paul, MN 55102
WHEREAS, Division of Code Enforcement has served in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code an order identified as an "Order to Abate Nuisance
Building(s)" dated November 14, 2000; and
WHEREAS, this order informed the then lrnown interested or responsible parties that the structure
located on the Subject Property is a nuisance building(s) pursuant to Chapter 45; and
WHEREAS, this order informed the interested or responsible parties that they must repair or
demolish the shucture located on the Subject Property by December 14, 2000; and
WHEREAS, the enforcement officer has posted a placard on the Subject Property declaring this
building(s) to consritute a nuisance condition; subject to demolition; and
WHEREAS, this nuisance condition has not been corrected and Division of Code Enforcement
requested that the City Clerk schedule public hearings before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the City
Council and the Saint Paul City Council; and
WHEREAS, the interested and responsible parties have been served notice in accordance with the
provisions of Chapter 45 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, of the time, date, place and purpose of the
public hearings; and
WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Legislative Hearing Officer of the Saint Paul City
Council on Tuesday, January 16, 2001 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 Property safe and not detrimental to the public peace, healtti, 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 altemative by demolishing and removing the structure in
accordance with all applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition of the shucture to be
completed within�een-��Kj d�ay� after the date of the Council Aearing; and � � . � o ,,
� r� n� h.,,� � e. �,�.� C.��o) w,�
- .. � a,E�.ou oa.. es� _ � noaN �!l a
� �"'?. t Pi i p i,+ �i � 0 ����7"
Lv � i�� i S r 4 '� i
1 WHEREAS, a hearing was held before the Saint Paul City Council on Wednesday, Februa.ry 7,
2 2001 and the testimony and evidence including the action taken by the Legislative Hearing Officer was
considered by the Council; now therefore
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 concerning
7 the Subject Property at 964 Woodbridge Street:
1.
10
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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 estunated to exceed three
thousand dollars ($3,000.00).
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 building(s).
That the deficiencies causing this nuisance conditaon haue not been corrected.
That Division of Code Enforcement has posted a placard on the Subj ect 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 laiown interested parties and owners are as previously stated in this resolution and
that the notification requirements of Chapter 45 have been fulfilled.
ORDER
The Saint Paul City Council hereby makes the following order:
1. The above referenced interested or responsible parties shall make the Subject Property safe and not
detrimental to the public peace, health, safety and welfare and remove its blighting influence on the
community by rehabilitating this structure and correcting all deficiencies as prescribed in the above
referenced Order to Abate Nuisance Building(s) in accordance with all applicable codes and
ordinances, or in the alternative by demolishing and removing the shucture in accordance with all
applicable codes and ordinances. The rehabilitation or demolition and removal of the structure
must be completed withi �€efteexr(�Sj�days after the date of the Council Hearing.
o.1e h�.v. <� <: � - L — �2- � o�
2. If the above corrective action is not completed wit �iun 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 Legislarive Code.
s� "� s � �; � 1
� �I
�-.,,' � � � � .
01-\1�
1 3. In the event the building is to be demolished and removed by the Ciry of Saint Paul, all personal
2 property or fixtures of any kind which interfere with the demolition and removal shall be removed
3 from the property by the responsible parties by the end of this rime period. If all personai properiy
4 is not removed, it shall be considered to be abandoned and the City of Saint Paul shall remove and
5 dispose of such properiy as provided by law.
6
7 4. It is further 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.
Adopted by Council: Date (� 2-cyo�
Adoption Certified by Council Secret
�
Requested by Department o£
Citizen Service Office; Code Enforcement
BY: �i�N�-0� V��'��`--�1
Form Approved by City Attorney
�
✓
Approved by Mayor: Date � �l
By: �-fd"
Approved by Mayar for Submission to Council
B C�� 4�G
Division of Code Enforcement � 12/22/00
bNTACf PERSON 8 PFiOME �
Michael R. Morehead 266-8439 ��
iusr ee ori cou�c��acemn er lw�l
Wednesday, February 7, 2001, �'
wxmec ron
rt01(fYiG
OROBt
TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES
GREEN SHEET
��� : :
6 t -�sr
No 1 a��23
� arv..rouEr �_ ❑ rnrasuc _
ua
❑nn+�wccw.m�xcvon. ❑wuwu��aEa�n�ccro
� 11AVaRMRAiMAIm � ❑
(CLJP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR�
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 compiy with the resolution, the Citizen Service Office, Division of Code Enforcement is ozdered
to remove the building. The subject property is located at 964 Woodbridge Street.
PLANNING CAMMISSION
CIB CAMMITTEE
CML SERVICE COMMISSION
ws ws persoruhrm everxa� wqer a connaa ror mis.deaammema
YES NO
tias mia pweaJfmm ewtea� a aly anpbyee9
YES NO
Does tlus PeisoNfiim Y�ess a sloll rwt �armallypossesc�,M bY any cunent cnY emPbYee?
11��i �7
Is Mis pnaoM�m a tarpMed vendaYt
YES MO
Jain all ves artav.e�s m seoa2le sM�
VITIA7ING PROBLEM ISSUE. OPPORTUNITY (Who. WImC When.lNhere. WhY)
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 l�own to the Enforcement
Officer were given an order to repair or remove the building at 964:Woodbtidge Street by December 14, 2000,
and have failed to comply with those orders.
�.:-. ,.
�������
The City will eliminate a nuisance.
JAi� �� 2�;?�
CITY ,��T���E�'
IISADVANTAGES IF PPPROVED
The City wili spend funds to wreck and remove this building(s). These costs will be assessed to the property,
collected as a s ecial assessment against the roperty ta�ces.
)ISADVANTAG6IFNOTAPPROVED ' - � ' �
A nuisance condition will remain unabated in the City. This building(s) will continue to blight the community.
TRANSACTION t � �
\ . � ' . � � • � � . ' u ' �
COST/itE1lEHUE BUD6ETID (GRCLE ON� ( YES I �
ACTIVITYNtl1�FR ��Z.Fi�
�"Q{�' a����fCi4 {
9n�,a . fi ��U�
ur �'..: .. �
Council File #
MINUTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEARING
D 1 -���-
Tuesday, Apri117, 2001
Room 330 Coutthouse
Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing O�cer
STAFF PRESENT: John Betz, Code Enforcement; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement
The meeting was called to order at 10:02 am.
Laid over snmmary abatements from the City Council Meeting of Apri14, 2001
File JO1L0 Boarding-np ofvacant buildings at the following addresses: 136 Wilder
Street,119'7 Ross Avenue,1165 Hndson Road
Abandoned vehicle at the following address: 615 Charles Avenne
Property Clean-up at the following addresses: 1835 St. Clair Avenue, 707
Jessamine Avenue East
136 Wilder Street North (JOIBDUP)
James Fitzpatrick, owner, stated he is being charged with boazding up a gazage door. He had
some personal injuries, which delayed him closing up the gazage. Also, it took a week to get a
garage door ordered and installed.
Steve Magner reported he issued a summary abatement order on 8-31-00 to secure the gazage.
On 9-7-00, one window was boazded, but the vacant building placazds were torn down. The
work order was sent on 9-13-00 about a wide open vehicle door, attached garage. There was no
response from the owner. On 12-9-00, the garage was still open. The inspector tried to contact
the properry owner and left a detailed message.
(Mr. Magner showed a photograph.)
Gerry Strathman stated the owner had a couple of weeks to make the repair and staff attempted to
contact him. It is uncleaz why the repair was not made. Mr. Fitzpatrick responded he was
injured while doing the work, which delayed it. Also, he had no problem with the door. Mr.
Strathman explained that the City code requires that all buildings be secured and access restricted
to prevent them &om being an attra�ctive nuisance for �hildren, vagrants, criminals, etc.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1197 Ross Avenue (JOIBDUP)
Mark Boeltl, owner, appeared and stated he had an arson on his gazage on 10-30-00. The Fire
Department got done about 2:00 a.m. and said they had to secure the building. It was boazded at
about 4:00 a.m. He found out later he was charged to secure the building. If he had known this,
he would have gotten lus own wood.
6 ( ' � �2—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Page 2
Gerry Strathman asked why the 9nc,�ran� wouid not pay for it. Mr. Boeltl responded they paid
for the contents of the garage. They paid $8300 and it cost $8800 to rebuild it. Also, there are
not many people roaming the streets at 230 a.m, Mr. Strathman responded the Fire Department
has orders not to leave the property unsecured because the City is liable if something happens.
Mr. Bcelfl responded he has seen garages open. Steve Magner stated the Fire Department will
not leave a scene without securing it, particulazly an arson, because it is technically a crime
scene.
Mr. Strathman asked about the number of boazds. Mr. Magner responded there were nine boards
and a secure. The cost reflects what the contractor did. Mr. Strathman explained that annually
the City puts out an RFP (Request for Proposal) for people who want to do these emergency
boardings.
Boeld quesrioned the cost, which is $745. Mr. Magner responded the cost includes the
following: nine boazds at $50 a piece, securing one door, the trip charge of $200, and $45
service fee.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1165 Hudson Road (301BDL3P)
(Note: 1165 Hudson has two summary abatements. JOl SUM has already been ratified by the
City Council. The secretary made a mistake, and it should have been laid over. Both
assessments will be discussed here.)
Gerald Frisch, 2350 W. 7`� Street, owner, appeazed and stated he is a developer and attorney. He
is the owner of this property and is in partnership with the City of St. Paul PED (Planning and
Economic Development). He is preparing to go before the Metropolitan Planning Commission
for money to clean up the site, which has been vacant for a year. He has worked with
Councilmember Lantry's office, Brian Sweeney (PED}, Sheryl Pemberton (PED), the
neighborhood, and the district council. Mr. Frisch has a contract for someone to clean up the
property. Mr. Frisch has cooperated with the City to have snow dumped there this year. He does
not think he should have tius assessment because he has no knowledge of tlus work being done
by the City. Whenever he received notices, it is taken care of. If this is something that slipped
through the cracks, he should not have a further assessment. He is in the process of arranging for
the demolition of this building and the construction of senior housing.
Gerry Stratbman stated orders were sent on August I1, 20, and September 5. Mr. Frisch
responded that each time, the problem has been cleared. Dumping is done there a11 the time. He
has spent about $S,OOO last year in removing debris that ott�er people have brought onto the
property.
Steve Magner stated there is a dumping problem there. There was a summary abatement issued
on 9-5-00 to cut the grass and secure the building. The grass was cut, but the building was still
open to access. Code Enforcement tried to contact the owner. Mr. Frisch never sent back the
vacant building registration form or the $20 vacant building fee. Code Enforcement just has the
D l -1��
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Page 3
company name and could not find the phone number; therefore, the inspectoi could not speak to
anyone verbally. The clean up was $18.98 plus the $45 administrative charges.
(A videotape was shown)
Mr. Frisch stated there is no doubt that new debris was delivered tfiere, but nothing shows it was
there for an e�ctended period of time. He is paying $22,000 in taYes, has undertaken a major
renovation in Saint Paul, and is entifled to certain consideration by the City.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. Notice was given and the work was
done. Mr. Magner stated he has talked to Mr. Frisch a number of times about this issue. The
parties that aze opening his mail should fill out the vacant building registcation form properly,
and then Code Enforcement would have documentation of phone numbers so that someone could
be called to avoid future assessments.
615 Charles Avenue (JO101 V)
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1835 St. Clair Avenue (J01 SiJM)
(No one appeared to represent the properry.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
?07 Jessamine Avenue East (J01 SiJNn
Va Yang, owner, appeazed and stated he did not receive notice. The couch and refrigerntor had
only been there for a few days.
John Betz repofted a notice was mailed on 10-18-00 for rubbish, discarded furniture, and
appliances in yard to be removed by 10-24-00. Mr. Yang responded he cleans the yazd every
week.
(A videotape was shown.)
Gerry S4athman recommends approval of the assessment. A notice was sent by U.S. Mail,
wluch is considered delivery by law. It is unknown why Mr. Yang did not receive it. The City
did the work.
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF APRII, 17, 2001
�
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the bnilding at 2257 Hillside Avenue. If
the owner fails to compiy with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the
bnilding.
(Laid over from 2-13-01)
(Photographs were presented and later returned.)
Jennifer Benzel, U.S. Bank National Association, appeazed. Ms. Benzel stated there was a
foreclosure sale on 3-2-01. The property owners filed an affidavit saying the property was not
abandoned. The owners have a full redemption rights of six months before U.S. Bank can do
anything with the properiy. If the property is not redeemed, U.S. Bank will continue forward
with their pian, which is to get the property mazketed and sold. They have people interested in
the property.
Gerry Strathman stated the property has an abandoned look to it. He asked clid the owners say
what they intended to do with the building. Ms. Benzel responded their attomey filed an
affidavit essentially saying it was not abandoned.
Steve Magner stated he was surprised that the mortgagee filed that affidavit. The property has
been neglected for a long time. Prior to the mortgage company taking caze of the outside of the
property, the City had to do it. Mr. Magner does not see the benefit of giving the owner more
leeway. The pmperty is in d"ue straits. Ms. Benzel responded U.S. Bank will continue to take
caze of the properry. The redemption period will end 9-2-01. They aze bound by law.
Mr. Strathman stated he wanted to be clear on the maintenance of the exterior. Ms. Benzel
responded U.S. bank has secured the building, taken caze ofthe sidewalks, and will be taking
care of the lawn throughout the summer.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the September 18, 2001, Legislative Hearing on
condition that the exterior of the building is maintained.
� Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 964 Woodbridge Street.
If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove
the buildiag. .
(Laid over from 2-20-01)
(Steve Magner presented photographs.)
Steve Magner reported the last time tlus was laid over was for the closing of a sale. The new
owner is required to post a bond and will be granted 180 days to complete rehabilitation of this
property.
Yee Fang appeared and stated he talked to Mr. Magrer yesterday.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner six months to complete rehabilitation of the
D f- I 2- 2-
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 5
properiy on condition that a$2,000 bond is posted by noon of April 25, 2001. Mr. Magner added
that if a bond is not posted, the resolution will revert back to removing the building within fifteen
days.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 923 Galtier Street. If the
owner faiLs to compty with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the
bnilding
(Laid over from 2-20-01)
Wally Nelson, Box 836, Lake Elmo, appeared and stated he was here previously and asked for a
layover. By the time it gets to the City Council, he hopes to haue this matter settled. He is not
looking for additional time.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner 1 SO days to complete rehabilitation of the
properry on condition that the following is done by noon of May 2, 2001: 1) obtain permits, 2)
post a $2,000 bond.
Summary Abatement Appeal for 980 Euclid Street (JO15iJM).
(Note: this was on the 4-3-01 Legislative Hearing agenda; the City Council referred this
property back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.)
Renee McKinney, owner, appeared and stated she has no recollection of a cleanup. Also, she did
not receive a notice. Mr. Strathman responded notice was sent on 7-10-00, and the cleanup was
done on'7-21-00.
(Ms. McKinney was shown a copy of the notice and received a copy.)
(A videotape was shown.}
Ms. McKinney stated there aze two properties shown, A tree fell in her yazd and she had it cut
down. Her electric box had to be replaced. The wood logs from the tree aze hers. The debris
azound it is not.
John Betz stated he could go to the property and look at the situation. There is always a
possibility that the wrong property was cited.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing. If the owner
is not happy with the solu6on Mr. Betz proposes, she can return on May 15.
d�-�aa
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Summary Abatements:
J0102A
J0102V
JOlO1B
SSWREPAIii
Page 6
Property clean-np during January 2001 and part of Febraary 2001.
Towiug of abanduned vehicles from private property dnring October and
November 2000. Additional properties to be assessed are: 873 Marion
Stree towed November 1999; S10 Sherburne Conwav. 2052
Fairmount towed Jannary 2000; Minnehaha towed March 2000; 45
Winona and 1037 Payne. towed April 2000.
Boarding up of vacant properties during November and December 2000.
Sanitary sewer service repairs
927 Hudson Road (J0102A)
(The owner appeazed for the property; however, Code Enforcement had not received the green
card indicating this address would be appealed.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
915 Agate Street (J0102V)
(No one appeazed to represent the properry.)
John Betz reported there seemed to be confusion at the Impound Lot; this assessment may not be
warranted. He suggested a layover.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
1787 Ames Avenue (SSWREPAIR)
(No one appeared to represent the properry, and the appeal was denied. However, the owner
called Mr. Strathman after the meeting and requested that she be heard at another legislative
hearing. Therefore, Mr. Sh�athman changed his recommendation.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislarive Hearing.
416 Chazles Avenue (J0102A)
(No one appeared to represent this property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the May 15, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
958 Marvland Avenue East (J0102A)
Thomas and Lola Alvazado, owners, appeared. Ms. Alvarado stated they never received a nodce.
5he thinks the items aze from the neighbors. She does not have access to that side of the garage
� � - � a-2—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
where this cleanup was done.
(A videotape was shown.)
Page 7
Mr. Alvarado stated that is not his property. If he had received notice, he would have cleaned it.
They have no tires in their garage.
{Mr. Betz showed a photograph.)
After viewing the photograph, Gerry Strathman stated the trash is right against the garage. Mr.
Alvarado responded he did not know that was their properry. Ms. Alvarado stated she had a
realtor look at the site and she was told that is their groperty line; however, that is not their
garbage. She does not have access to that side of the garage. The next door neighbors enter that
side and pazk there. The Alvarados aze on the other side of the gazage. They drive a 1999
vehicle and would have no business with six tires on that side of the gazage. The neighbors
continue to dump gazbage. The Alvarados installed a temporary fencing.
Mr. Strathman asked did they receive notice. Ms. Alvazado responded no and she is home
everyday and gets the mail everyday.
John Betz reported there was a probiem with ownership information received from Ramsey
County for about two months. The notice was sent to the Hudsons. Ms. Alvazado responded that
is who the house was purchased from.
Gerry Strathman recommends deleting the assessment because of a notification problem. He
warned the owners that they aze responsible for what is on their properry whether it is their
garage or not. Ms. Alvazado stated they pian to install a privacy fence.
754 Minnehaha Avenue West (SSWREPAIR)
Cameron Lepisto, owner, appeazed and stated he had sewer problems. He received a notice to
get it repaired, whieh he did. Within a week, he got a notice that more sewer work needed to be
done on the second half. He would like any duplication of charges to be taken off his
assessment.
John Betz reported that there was a break in the sewer line discovered by the Sewer Division of
Public Works. Someone contacted Code Enforcement to have the work done so it could be
billed as an assessment. The conrtactor went to Public Works and was told the break was in the
middle of the street and the service to the properry had fallen off the main sewer system. The
coniractor completed the work. As he was getting in his huck, he found rodent holes in the
boulevazd. Unbeknownst to him, the building is serviced by two separate lines. He proceeded to
repair it.
Mr. Betz called the contractor and asked him if he could have done it all at one time and how
much were the duplication costs. The contractor stated it would have been between $200 to $300
� { - } �- 2—
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
�
to bring all the equipment back again. The Sewer Division informed the contractor there was one
sewer line going to the building when actually there was two. The contractor could have done
them both at the same time.
Gerry Strathman recommends reducing the assessment by $300 for a total assessment of
$6,825.02.
1027 Pazk Street (J0102A)
(No one appeazed to represent the properry.)
Gerry Strattunan recommends approval of the assessment.
1037 Pavne Street (70102V)
(No one appeared to represent the properry.)
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
596 Portland Avenue (J0102A)
Raymond Heichel, owner, appeazed and stated he purchased a refrigerator at Twin City
Appliance. They were to pick up the old refrigerator, but they could not do it that day. If Mr.
Heichel had been given a notice, he would have taken the refrigerator to them.
John Betz reported his office issued a notice on 12-28-00 to discard a refrigerator, doors, rubbish
with a compliance date of 1-4-01. The City removed the refrigerator on 1-10-01. An inspector
lrnocked on the door and received no answer. (Mr. Betz showed Mr. Heichel a copy of the
notice.)
Mr. Heichel stated sometimes lus mail goes to another address, and the mail is not brought back.
He asked that this assessment be waived. Mr. Strathman responded that he could not do that
because his records show that the notice was sent.
Mr. Betz asked does he lives at 59b Portland. Mr. Heichel responded he does, but sometimes he
is not there. Mr. Strathman asked was he gone during Christmas. Mr. Heichel responded yes.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. Notification was sent and the work
was done. Legal requirement is to send it by U.S. mail.
675 Sherburne Avenue (J0102A)
(No one appeazed to represent the properiy.)
01-��
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINITTES OF APRIL 17, 2001
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
730 Sherburne Avenue
(Note: this address was levied on 4-4-01.}
(No one appeared to represent the properiy.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
687 Western Avenue North (J0102�
.,:_ .
Anthony Oji, owner, appeazed and stated he cannot get a title on the vehicle. The caz was taken
away from the pazking lot and then he was told to come here.
John Betz reported there were no current plates on the vehicle. The City considers a vehicle
abandoned if the plates aze more than 90 days old and the vehicle is inoperable, unsecured. If
they aze in these conditions, the vehicle has to be kept in a garage. On 10-7-00, an inspector
found three vehicles and none had plates. Notice was sent to Mr. Oji to bring it into compliance,
remove them, or gazage them by 10-21-00. The inspector was back on 10-23-00 and one vehicle
remained. The inspector tried to call Mr. Oji, but the phone system would not accept
unidentified calls, which come out of the police facility. A work order was sent to the Police
Department, and they impounded the vehicle.
Mr. Strathman asked how long did he have the car before it was towed. Mr. Oji responded since
August 8. Mr. Strathman stated it was three months waiting for repair. Under the City's law,
vehicles cannot be stored outdoors.
Mr. Betz stated he is not aware of what happens when a vehicle is purchased from the Impound
Lot. He asked was there any temporary licensing situation. (Mr. Betz looked at the paperwork
provided by Mr. Oji.)
Gerry Slrathman recommends reducing the assessment from $637.10 to $400.00 plus the $45.00
service fee for a total assessment of $445.00. The owner was notified properly and the vehicle
was improperly stored; however, the vehicle charge is too high.
336 Lafond Avenue (J0102A)
Edgaz Poland and his daughter appeared. The daughter stated there was a fire on a Saturday
afternoon. She heard the fire trucks, realized it was her father's house, and went to the house.
She told the firemen she would board the properry. When she got back, the house was already
boarded. She did not think much about it because her father was having open heart surgery at the
time. The fuemen threw out some debris onto the sidewalk. When she got there Monday
moming, the debris was gone and there was a bill on one of the windows. She is protesting that
she was there at the scene, was willing to do the work, the work was done without her
� `- 122
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 1'7, 2001 Page 10
knowledge, and the bill was for over $900. Steve Magner reported the boazd up is not on the
agenda today; the only item on the agenda today is the cleanup for $334.
Steve Magner reported the fire occurred on 2-3-01. There was debris all over the sidewaik. It
was a hazard because of the items that were used to put out the fire. Code Enforcement tried to
contact the owner, but were unable to reach him. An emergency summary abatement was issued
to clean up the sidewalk. Mr. Magner posted a copy on the door at 12:45 p.m. indicating the
action would be taken. Parks and Recreation went out that aftemoon to do the cleanup. The
work was done on 2-5-01.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment. The actions the City took were
reasonable and appropriate under the circumstances.
543 Van Buren Avenue (JOlO1B)
(No one appeared to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
609 Smith Avenue South (JOl OlB)
(No one appeazed-to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
675 Portiand Avenue (30101B)
Lois Casey, owner, appeazed and stated she was awakened about her gazage being on fire. She
told the Fire Departmem that she would lock up the garage. The garage was boazded the nest
moming without her consent. Used wood was put on the gazage, it was put on at an angle, and is
not covering the entire hole. Gerry Strathman responded the wood is trivial. The real chazge is
for the contractor coming out in the middle of the night.
Ms. Casey stated her insurance company said they would pay the fee. Mr. Magner responded
most insurance companies pick up the cost of securing the property to stop further degradation.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1236 Seventh Street
East. If the owner fails to comply with the order, Code Enforeement is ordered to remove
tLe building.
(Steve Magner presented photographs.)
Robert and Mazlyn Weber, owners, appeazed.
��-���
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTT'ES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 11
Steve Magner reported the certificate of occupancy was revoked in 1995. Seven summary
abatement notices have been issued to remove vehicles, cut grass, remove tires, secure building,
remove snow. On 1-31-01, an inspection ofthe building was conducted, a list of deficiencies
which constitute a nuisance conditions was developed, and photographs were taken. Vacant
building fees have ben paid. Real estate tazes are unpaid in the amount of $2,564. Taxation has
placed an estimated mazket value of $74,800 on this properry. As of 417-01, a code compliance
inspection has not been applied for, and a$2,000 bond has not bene posted. The cost to repair is
estimated at $80,000 to $100, 000; cost to demolish, $16,000 to $18,000.
Ms. Weber stated she is looking for an extension of time because they aze planning to sell the
properry. If things were posted, sometimes they aze taken off of the building. The first letter they
received was in February and forwarded to them in Alabama. It got there four days after the
inspection. She wrote a letter on 2-21-01 to inform the City that she would like this matter put
on hold until they return on Apri14. She received a letter delivered by hand about this hearing.
She didn't see anything posted on the building. She would like some time to contact the realtor
and to get some idea of the value. It is a sound building. They were worried about the roof
caving in during the winter, but it didn't.
Gerry Strathman asked how long it would take to sell trris building. Ms. Weber stated she did not
know. Mr. Weber responded three months.
Mr. Magner reported there were a number of complaints about this property over the years. The
certificate of occupancy was revoked in 1995 by the Fire Department for failure to bring the
building into compliance, which means the building cannot be used far any form of occupancy.
Code Enforcement mailed out a vacant building registration notice. Mr. Magner had a
conversation with the owners on 5-24-00. At that time, they wanted to sell the building and to
figvre out what they needed to do. Mr. Magner stated he would hold off enforcement of the
vacant building fees for 90 days provided they fill out the vacant building nofice. At the end of
the 90 days, the understanding was the owners were to submit a plan for the structure. Finally,
they paid the fees on 7-28-00. At that time, they said they would sell as is. Mr. Magner does not
see any cooperation from the owners.
Ms. Weber asked about the cazs. Mr. Strathman responded that is not before lvm today. Today,
we are talldng about whether the City will order the building removed. If the City proceeds with
this action, the City will demolish the properiy, and the owners will have a vacant lot and a bill.
Ms. Weber stated she would like e�rtra time to sell the property. Mr. Strathman responded this
has gone on for a long time. He will allow 60 days.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the June 19, 2001, Legisla6ve Hearing.
Appeal of Summary Abatemeat Order for 775 Ashland Avenue.
Dr. James Shelton, owner, appeazed and stated he had a garage that went down because of the
ice. He has insurance, a claim number, an adjuster. He is suppose to have a check coming in the
�i1-1'��
LEGISLATNE HEARING MINUTES OF APRIL 17, 2001 Page 12
mail for repairing the garage. He is upset because so many people at today's hearing got layovers
and time extensions. An inspector came out to his properry on a Wednesday, an abatement order
was mailed on Thursday, and Mr. Shelton is suppose to have the building down on Monday. He
feels t1�at is ridiculous. All the people on the agenda had more time tban he. Also, he filed the
appeal on Apri19, and he received a letter dated March 2. ('The secretary responded that it was a
error from the Citizen Service Office.)
Gerry Strathman asked when the building collapsed. Mr. Shelton responded he did not l�ow.
Snow was still on the ground. The garage is on his property, and he does not understand what is
going on.
(John Betz presented a photograph, which was later returned.)
Mr. Betz stated this was called in from concerned neighbors. Code Enforcement feels it is a
dangerous situation. Children do not pay attention to property lines, and this has the potential of
collapsing on a child. Code Enforcement considered it dangerous enough to give the owner the
minimum amount of time. Code Enforcement wants it Imocked down. It does not have to be
taken away. Mr. Shelton responded it is braced against the walis and it will not fall down.
Mr. Strathman asked when he will get rid of it. Mr. Shelton responded as soon as the check
comes, which he should have any day. Mr. Strathman responded he would like something more
definite.
Mr. Strathman asked can it be down by the end of the week. Mr. Shelton responded he can try.
He has to pay someone to do it, and he does not have the check yet.
Mr. Strathman stated the City now knows there is a situation and there is an inspector that
believes it to be dangerous. If there is an accident at that properry, whoever suffers as a result of
that accident will sue the City saying the City knew it was a hazardous situation and did not take
effective action to remedy it. The City is exposed legally as long as this situation exists. Mr.
Strathman wants to be fair with the owner and also limit the City's legal exposure. Mr. Shelton
would be named in a lawsuit as well. There is a common interest to get this dangerous situation
remedied.
Gerry Strathman recommends amending the Summary Abatement Order compliance date to
Apri124, 2001. The owner should remedy the danger by that time. If something is preventing
the owner from demolishing the property, Mr. Betz should be catled to access the situation and
he will give more time if he feels it is necessary.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:20 p.m.
�