Hearings Held For Unsafe Properties
KOSCIUSKO — A hearing took place this afternoon pertaining to six buildings in Kosciusko County that have been deemed unsafe.
Normally condemning and removal of unsafe properties would fall to the respective towns, however because the buildings are located outside of town limits, the county has jurisdiction over them.
The first two hearings, pertaining to properties at 4615 N. S.R. 13, Leesburg, and at 8510 E. Hatchery Road, Syracuse, were dismissed, as the structures in question had already been demolished by the property owners, in compliance with the health department.
The third hearing pertained to a garage at 9043 E. Circle Dr. S., Syracuse. Health Department Environmental Scientist, Phil Baxter, noted that the property owners had begun repairs, which include shoring up of the sides and roof, new studs and moss cleanup on the east side of the building.
It was decided to continue the hearing until Aug. 20, giving the owners an additional 30 days to continue with repairs.
Owners of the fourth structure, a house located at 4486 S. Lakeshore Dr., Mentone, requested an additional 60 to 90 days to rehabilitate it. Problems include a leaking roof and deteriorating structure.
The building has been vacant for 13 years and the owners currently live in Ohio. Baxter noted he was willing to give them the time to make needed repairs, but expressed concern this may not happen. However, because the house is not in a largely populated area, the decision was made to grant the full nine months, as requested.
Following was the hearing for a small house at 29 EMS B74 Lane, Warsaw. The name on the mortgage is Ruben Radziminski, deceased, and that no heirs have come forward to claim the property. Neighbors who were present noted that they spoke with his sister, a New York resident, last summer and that the family removed items of value but have not returned to clean up the property.
The health department has ordered demolition of the house, which has trash strewn around, a leaking roof and mold. Miner noted that the order will go out to have the property demolished. If no one complies, the health department will take over and tear the property down.
After neighbors questioned whether the property would be sold, Miner responded that the health department has no authority to sell the property, but that if taxes would cease to be paid, it would be sold in a tax auction.
The final property, located at 13552 N. Hillside Dr., Syracuse, was also granted a continuance until Aug. 20, as the owner has taken measures to begin cleanup, including rental of a large dumpster.