AgdaPkt 2017-04-03 Joint SA PFA - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

days. Based on the January 18, 2017 inspection of 112-120 Vera Avenue, staff concluded the structures and property were imminently dangerous and immediate securing of the premises was necessary pending the completion of an abatement hearing as authorized by Redwood City Code Chapter 9 Buildings, Article II Unsafe Buildings. The property was found dangerous due to the items stored inside the building, including combustible newspapers that provide a fuel load in the event of a fire; numerous combustible household items and solvents, paints and other hazardous materials stored inside the buildings; and evidence of fires having been made by squatters in several of the unit. There also was evidence that squatters had been living in the units, smoking and using alcohol. Further, the structures themselves were found to pose an imminent danger because of dilapidation to the roof system which has resulted in severe leaking. Staff also observed what appears to be damage due to fungus and dry rot, indicating collapse of the roof will occur. Staff determined it was necessary to return to the Court to seek a third Inspection Warrant and Abatement Order (Forcible Entry) to secure the premises. III. THIRD INSPECTION WARRANT AND ABATEMENT ORDER On February 2, 2017, the San Mateo County Superior Court issued the City an Inspection Warrant and Abatement Warrant (Forcible Entry), a copy of which is attached to this staff report for reference. The Inspection Warrant and Abatement Order (Forcible Entry) authorized and ordered the C ity to effectuate a summary emergency abatement of imminent danger posed to persons and property by the condition of the property. Abatement was to consist of securing and boarding up the exterior windows, doors and garage doors of all the structures located at 112-120 Vera Avenue, and securing any other exposed openings on those structures. The Inspection Warrant and Abatement further authorized inspection by personnel present to evaluate and determine the steps necessary to effectuate a permanent abatement of the property, including the analysis of asbestos present on the site. All items of personal property were to remain on the premises. Prior to securing the premises, the warrant authorized sworn members of the Redwood City Police Department to inspect the premises to ensure the absence of any persons inside the structures, but did not authorize any additional inspection or search. On February 10, 2017, representatives from the City’s Fire, Police and Parks, Recreation and Community Services (“PRCS”) Departments and Building and Code Enforcement Division of the Community Development Department executed the Inspection Warrant and Abatement. Representatives from the City Attorney’s Office, locksmiths, and a demolition contractor were present as well. Locksmiths unlocked the units. Police officers conducted security sweeps of the units, including garages, attics and crawl spaces to ensure units were empty of persons. PRCS staff were on site to discuss social services and resources with any persons who were found on the premises. Police officers cleared an individual who did not have permission to be on the premises, and PRCS staff spoke with him. 7.B. - Page 8