Owner will demolish abandoned house in Marion
Staff reporter
Dilapidated houses again were on the agenda Monday for the City of Marion. Fortunately, the news was good for the city.
According to city building inspector Marty Fredrickson, the property at 201 N. Freeborn, Marion, has been repaired and meets the city's codes.
Previously the property was condemned by the city as a nuisance and the owner was instructed to repair or remove the structures.
The owner requested and received an extension to make the required repairs.
A public hearing was held Monday prior to the regular commission meeting regarding property at 501 N. Roosevelt, Marion.
It was determined at that hearing that the property was in violation of the city's ordinance. The owner, John Stultz, had met with Fredrickson prior to the meeting and said the house was damaged beyond repair by previous renters. The owner planned to remove the house and clean up the lot within 120 days.
City attorney Dan Baldwin recommended a resolution be drawn by the city with a completion date.
Fredrickson reported it was not known by the city or the owner if the water, heating, and electrical systems were code compliant. There was evidence of water damage to a ceiling in the house that indicated a leaking roof.
There had been reports of skunks and rats in the house, Fredrickson said, which deemed the structure a nuisance.
A resolution will be presented at the next commission meeting.
In other business:
— The commission approved the vacation of part of River Street, located east of Marion Die & Fixture at 421 West Main Street. Baldwin said the land was never used as a street and would aid in future expansion of the business.
— A former Chingawassa Railroad car that was being stored by the city will be donated to the National Orphan Train Complex.
The entity claims to have resources to refurbish it and the city will be recognized for the donation.
Commissioner Jim Crofoot said he was glad to see it put to good use.
— Fredrickson reported a city motor grader was repaired, Christmas lights will be checked by city crews, and water lines were repaired.
Crews also were busy with citywide cleanup this week.
— The commission approved a quarterly financial statement, and September financial statement and investment and collateral reports.
— Warrants for $55,263 and payroll for $25,548 were approved.
— Mayor Martin Tice requested and received a 10-minute executive session with Baldwin for attorney-client privilege. The meeting reconvened with no decisions.
The commission will meet at 4 p.m. Monday in the city building.
