2/8/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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r FEE - 8 J99 - BOOK 91 PnE 711 DEMOLITION OF HOUSES IN GIFFORD Chairman Tippin reported that a number of buildings, including 3 houses owned by Mr. Ivey Williams, have been condemned because they are not in compliance with the Building Code. There have been complaints that some of the buildings are being used by derelicts, drug addicts, and prostitutes. Mr. Williams has requested an opportunity to speak to the Board about a letter he received from Building Director Ester Rymer, notifying him that he must bring the subject properties into compliance with the Building Code within 60 days. Otherwise, the County will demolish the buildings and bill him for the cost of demolition. Ivey Williams, 4246 31st Avenue, Gifford, recounted that in 1989 he bought 6 houses that were in foreclosure. He applied for a loan from the bank to renovate the buildings. The bank approved a loan but was unwilling to lend him enough money to complete the work. He reinvested the rental income from the property, and he has been able to renovate one house every year. He does not have enough money to complete all the work before the deadline. He admitted that the houses are in poor condition, but he stressed that he is doing the best he can. He asked the Board to give him an extension of time to complete the work. Commissioner Eggert suggested that Mr. Williams apply for funds under the Housing Authority's low-income rental housing program. Mr. Williams reported that he tried to get financial assistance from the Housing Authority, but he was told that his income is too high. Commissioner Eggert asked Community Development Director Bob Keating if Mr. Williams would be eligible for funds under the County's new housing rehabilitation loan program for low-income rental housing. Director Keating confirmed that money is available, and that funding depends on the income of the person who will occupy the dwelling rather than the owner's income. Commissioner Tippin asked Mr. Williams whether drug addicts or derelicts were using the houses for illegal activities. Mr. Williams assured the Board there are no illegal activities taking place on his property. He added that some houses were demolished last week because of alleged illegal activities. He maintained that illegal activities were not taking place in those buildings. He stated that he would have liked to purchase those buildings, but he was unsuccessful in his attempts to find out who owned them. He wished the County would give investors an 32