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In response to City Attorney Schricker's questions, Mr. Azawa stated that it is economically feasible to retrofit the building to meet Redwood City Codes; that he would tear down the part of the building encroaching on the other lot and still meet set-back requirements; agreed that the 50% structural damage estimate by Building Inspector Schnell was probably accurate; described procedure to pour new foundation; did not answer questions relating to existing or potential contracts to purchase the land; and asked for six weeks to accomplish engineering drawings. City Attorney Schricker advised that the physical configuration of the area of Laurel Way was the only hindrance to development and that no policy existed except the requirement for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Report. City Attorney Schricker advised there was no policy to deny rebuilding except the existing Codes; however, he was not suggesting that plans referred to tonight would or could comply. In answer to Council and City Attorney Schricker's questions, Mr. Azawa advised he did not want to tear down the building due to the restrictions the Planning Department had imposed: if the building was torn down, according to Redwood City Codes and Zoning Ordinance, the two substandard lots would have to be merged. Also, Mr. Azawa answered that he could renovate the building and meet the set-back requirements. Building Official La Torra described the extended discussions held with the owners over the past six months and their understanding that the two lots would be merged when the building was demolished. Also, he advised that if the building was renovated, the other lot would still be considered a substandard lot. City Attorney Schricker advised Council that if the resolution was adopted the owners would have 30 days to bring the building up to Code or tear it down or Council could retain jurisdiction and continue this matter to a date certain. Mark Engleman, representing the owners Baymark Financial, Inc., addressed the Council advising that the owners were willing to take care of the unsafe deck and weeds and were willing to renovate the building. City Manager Everett advised that the owners had had an extended period of time to eliminate the hazards their building and property presented since it had been posted since September 20, 1991 as Unsafe to Occupy; that there were sound reasons to move forward with this condemnation and give meaning to Redwood City Code enforcement; and, the resolution allowed thirty days for the owners to comply with Code requirements. City Manager Everett advised that staff would work closely with the owners and the others involved. Council Members discussed the lack of progress by the owners, the need for strong Code enforcement in Redwood City, and the thirty days still available to the owners for remedies. Ti tl e read. M/S: Buchan/Stangel Regular Meeting Minutes MINUTE BOOK NO. 51 April 13, 1992 Page 6 Page No. 40