WARSAW — Two homes, both unoccupied, have received demolition orders following today’s Warsaw Code Enforcement Hearing. The orders were issued by Larry Clifford, hearing officer.

The homes have estimated remodeling, refurbishing costs far exceeding demolition expenses. The properties are located at 108 N. Park Ave., Warsaw, and 124 S. Sherman, Warsaw.

The demolition costs will be at the expense of the property owners. According to Jeremy Skinner, city planner, a reasonable time will be set between the city and the property owner. Should demolition not occur within that time frame, the city will undertake the demolition costs and a lien placed on the property.

Nationstar Mortgage is the current owner of the 108 N. Park Ave., property formerly owned by Phil Smith. During the June code hearing, the demolition order for the home was put on temporary hold allowing the mortgage holder an opportunity to present a solution. William Hagg, representing Nationstar Mortgage, Springfield, Ohio, was present at that meeting, but did not return for the July meeting with a plan.

Clifford, while ordering the demolition, also issued another civil penalty, which now totals $5,000. (Related: Demolition Of Park Avenue Property On Hold)

The second property, owned by Johnny and Rita Brown, was gutted by fire in early 2014 (Related: UPDATE: Two Escape Burning House).

No one was present to address the issue, resulting in a default ruling. Skinner noted the owners have been attempting to work with Habitat For Humanity on a new home. He stated the home would require major reconstruction. Browns had no insurance and have no financial means to repair or demolish the home. It was estimated the cost to refurbish or remodel the home was $27,000. Demolition was estimated at $3,800.

It was unclear why the Arnolt Corporation building at 2525 E. Durbin Street, Warsaw, was placed back on the hearing docket. Clifford noted it was ordered demolished at the June meeting as well as compliance with an order from Kosciusko Superior Court 1.

Skinner noted he believes the facility was vacated and sealed, as requested in June, with clean-up underway. A $5,000 civil penalty was also noted.