SYRACUSE — William Baxter from the Kosciusko County Health Department made a brief presentation to the Syracuse Town Council regarding the demolition of blighted properties during the council’s regular monthly meeting Tuesday night, Sept. 15.

The health department had been asked to check a property on Pearl Street. The residents had been evicted since the property was unsafe to live in. Baxter explained the health department only handles demolition of blighted property in unincorporated areas of the county and works with municipalities through ordinances.

Baxter suggested the town’s attorney work with the county attorney on developing such an ordinance for Syracuse.

Councilman Bill Musser asked what a typical time frame is from when a problem is noted until demolition. Baxter explained often times the health department is dealing with the deceased where family will not claim the property.

Larry Siegel asked why town residents who pay county taxes have to pay for demolitions in unincorporated areas. Baxter explained in the unincorporated areas there is no governmental jurisdiction while with municipalities, they act on their own.

Musser asked what the typical cost of a demolition is. Baxter said recently three properties were demolished for a cost of $11,250. One property was taken down for $3,800 while another was $2,200. The lowest bid is always taken.

Council President Paul Stoelting said more than 11 properties had to be processed without going to demolition. Baxter agreed saying one, a garage, was totally repaired while another, a house, the homeowner asked for nine months to make repairs. If there is no change in the condition of the property, the demolition process moves forward.

“The goal is not to spend taxpayer money,” Baxter said.