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City Council Regular Meeting — 08/23/04 DRAFT Minutes - Page 28 alleviated for the good of the neighborhood, as well as the overall community. Ms. Kelsey opined that the HRA had learned through the process, and now more clearly recognized the need to communicate effectively to achieve the end results. Councilmember Maschka noted the length of time this property had been an issue; and noted the Council's delay in providing adequate and firm direction and policy related to code enforcement and Eminent Domain. Councilmember Maschka noted that the same situations with deteriorating rental housing and the continuing structural code enforcement issues. Mayor Klausing concurred with Councilmember Maschka's comments, adding that it was a philosophical issue related to the Plan B City structure with the City Council setting policy, which was implemented through staff. Councilmember Ihlan addressed her reaction and perspective related to condemnation proceedings, noting she had had discussions with the neighbors. Councilmember Ihlan observed that, while the decision was perhaps not flawed and may have proven the only course of action given the length of time and neighborhood concerns about safety, the City Council was ultimately responsible and accountable for what was and is done in the name of the City. Councilmember Ihlan opined that, while Eminent Domain may prove useful in certain and individually- reviewed cases, it should be used sparingly. Councilmember Ihlan expressed appreciation that the home owner had ultimately taken action himself, from the Council's perspective it would have been an action for which the City Council should have been accountable — both financially and in the minds of voters. Councilmember Ihlan further opined that, had the action been a joint decision of the City Council and the HRA, perhaps the City Council would have