CC Min 1992-08-17 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

5. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. PUBLIC HEARING - Recommendation to Abate Nuisance, 406 CEDAR STREET, APN 053-155-060 (702-11) REPORT: Community Development Director, July 31, 1992 Affidavit of Mailing, Affidavit of Notice to Abate Nuisance and Notice of Posting are on file in the City Clerk Department. The City Clerk administered the oath to all those about to give testimony regarding the subject of abatement of nuisance of 406 Cedar Street. Building Inspector Jerry Schnell presented the staff report and described how the community policing officers in the neighborhood had tried to work with the owner to clean-up this property with no success. Mr. Schnell showed slides illustrating the vandalism, abandoned appliances, trash, dry rot and possible fire hazard conditions of the five-unit building in question. Mr. Schnell advised that two of the units had been abandoned and three were occupied. Mr. Schnell advised that five years ago the Council voted to abate this same nuisance, but allowed the owner to rehabilitate the property; but, now, five years later such deplorable conditions exist the owner would have to hire a licensed contractor to do the major reconstruction needed. Mr. Schnell described Redwood City's relocation ordinance advising the owner will have to pay for his tenants' relocation expenses, and if he is not forthcoming, the City will pay the expenses and go after the owner for reimbursement. In response to questions from the City Attorney, San Mateo County Health Officer Zander Karim described the benefits of working with Redwood City Community Police Officers Garcia and Mateo and Building Inspector Schnell, and advised the County would encourage removal of the tenants, as the units are close to uninhabitable; the County would prefer the tenants to leave now but would accept the proposed 30 days as a maximum time limit; and the abandoned two units must be sealed. Mr. Zander advised there are between five and six people living there at the present time. City Attorney Schricker advised Council that staff should closely monitor the situation during the next 30 days, and if conditions deteriorate dramatically staff should act immediately. In response to questions from the City Attorney, Community Police Officer Garcia advised there was no management control apparent, and that the premises were strewn with remnants of partying and vandalism. In response to questions from the City Attorney, Mr. Schnell advised that not more than 50% of the structure was beyond rehabilitation, but that tenants would not be able to live there during the major reconstruction needed. Council Members discussed this property, the good job community policing is doing, and the best ways to remedy this situation. Regular Meeting Minutes August 17, 1992 MINUTE BOOK NO. 51 Page 5 Page No. 168