TO: Mayor and Members of City Council
THRU:
FROM: Lachelle H. Pulliam, Interim City Attorney
DATE: February 26, 2024
RE:
Title
Liens Resulting From City-Initiated Demolitions
end
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S):
Council District(s)
All Districts
b
Relationship To Strategic Plan:
Goal IV: Desirable Place to Live, Work, and Recreate
Executive Summary:
The City has initiated demolitions of buildings. The cost to demolish a building automatically becomes a lien on the property. As of December 31, 2023, there were 30 demolition liens levied within the last 5 years totaling $286,347.00, 72 levied between 5 and10 years totaling $309,864.00, and 111 levied over 10 years ago totaling $415,392.00, for a grand total of $1,011,603.00.
Background:
When the City expends funds to abate a public nuisance such as demolish an unsafe or blighted building, the costs become a lien on the property. If the liens are not paid, the City may initiate legal actions to recover those costs. The Finance Department has compiled a list of properties in the City with liens as of December 2023. The attached lists include vacant lots in the City as a result of City-initiated demolitions, and the costs levied as a result of the demolition.
Issues/Analysis:
Depending on Council’s interests, the City could attempt to enforce the liens, which will have associated costs. Liens older than 10 years are collectible but not enforceable.
Budget Impact:
Unknown but there will be costs associated with enforcement.
Options:
1. Actively enforce the liens.
2. Wait for owners to pay liens voluntarily.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that Council move to actively enforce the liens.
Attachments:
Liens Resulting from City-Initiated Demolitions (Less than 5 Years)
Liens Resulting from City-Initiated Demolitions (5-10 Years)
Liens Resulting from City-Initiated Demolitions (More than 10 Years)