2004-05-18_Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Member Kelsey asked that the staff fees for the Home & Garden Fair be charged against the Home & Garden project so that the total amount of staff time can be reflected in that program. 7.Action Items: a.Consideration of use of eminent domain for property located at 2012 Eldridge Street (HF0020) Executive Director Cathy Bennett explained as per staff report dated April 16, 2004 provided a brief summary of the history of deferred maintenance issues and property code violations at 2012 Eldridge She explained the goals to improve the site and neighborhood. . Cathy Bennett illustrated house pictures of the exterior condition of the house and yard. A Housing Resource Center (HRC) interior inspection and results were explained including water damage, mechanical systems and mold were described. HRC thought the site was too costly to repair/renovate. In addition, the property has been declared as an “Unsafe Building” by the state building code standards and the certificate of occupancy has been revoked. Jim Casserly, HRA Attorney, explained the HRA eminent domain process. A resolution calling for a public hearing on eminent domain at 2012 Eldridge was distributed. A timeline of the items and time necessary was discussed. Quick take processes allow acquisition of title within 90 days from date of service of notice. Frank Wu, owner of the property at 2012 Eldridge, explained that the property was previously owned by his parents. He now has title to the property and proposes to have a four bedroom, 3 car garage house built on the site. He is working with a custom home builder and plans on having the existing structure demolished to construct a new home within three months. Member Kelsey asked how HRA can work with the family to see that the property is improved with a timeline and plan for corrections. Jim Casserly said a 30-60 day delay in the process to allow a demo permit to be issued could be approved by the HRA. Chair Majerus asked for a timeline. Demolition would be done and new construction could occur in 90 days or demolition immediately. Frank Wu indicated that he has the financial capacity to construct the new house and would be willing to have the home demolished prior to construction of the new home. He is interested in demolition contractors as he is not aware of any. Cathy Bennett suggested that a letter of intent from Mr. Wu to the HRA may help to clarifying a specific timeline and schedule for redevelopment of the property. Mr. Wu said a timetable will be submitted to the HRA in 30 days. Member Marks expressed concern about the condition of the property after demolition until new construction begins. Cathy Bennett suggested that this information be placed in the letter of intent and that typically the site is graded as part of demolition. th Member Kelsey asked for the letter of intent by the May 18 and if not presented at that time, the HRA will consider proceeding with eminent domain. 2