R2024-275 Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement with Steve's Trucking for the Demolition of Vacant Buildings Located at 436 N. Main (Former YWCA)

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ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT MEMO: No. 24-17 TO: Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe, and City Council FROM: Tim Gleason, City Manager Cordaryl "Pat"Patrick, Director, Community Development Michael Snearly,Neighborhood Inspections Manager DATE: August 5, 2024 SUBJECT: Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement with Steve's Trucking for the Demolition of Vacant Buildings Located at 436 N. Main(Former YWCA) SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends authorizing the execution of an agreement with Steve's Trucking for the demolition of vacant buildings located at 436 N. Main (Former YWCA). BACKGROUND: The former YWCA buildings located at 436 N. Main have been vacant and in a state of complete disrepair for decades. These privately owned buildings have not had active utilities for several years with the water service being terminated in 2005, and it has never been re-activated. Both buildings have been stripped of salvageable plumbing and electrical materials; the original YWCA building is falling into an old tunnel connected to the attached City parking garage, and it has long been apparent that it is not cost-effective to repurpose either building into an alternative use due to decades of lack of maintenance and neglect. In January of 2023, the brick fagade on the north and east walls of the building's natatorium started to collapse onto City sidewalks and the southernmost lane of East Eldorado, causing closure of that sidewalk. It remains closed off today, and the City has had to remove our sign poles as they were repetitively being hit by falling debris from the building. Further inspections of the interior of this structure showed that this building suffers from a severe lack of maintenance and is in hazardous condition. In an effort to work with the private property owners,the City of Decatur offered to pay for an asbestos survey to be performed on the structure. The asbestos survey found that both buildings have several areas containing asbestos positive materials. In April of 2024 Council approved a resolution for the abatement of asbestos from both buildings. These materials must be removed prior to the demolition of this dangerous structure. The City has, without success,repeatedly insisted that the building's owners abate these hazards and be responsible stewards of their property. The city continues to explore all legal remedies to obtain cost recovery for public expenditures for asbestos abatement and demolition of this dangerous structure. However, it is prudent that demolition be completed prior to initiating such legal process, to remove the hazard in a timely manner. The property was put out for a sealed demolition bid in early July. Steve's Trucking came in with the low bid at $345,000.00 STAFF REFERENCE: Any additional questions may be forwarded to Cordaryl"Pat"Patrick or Michael Snearly at 217-450-2347 or msnearly_(&decaturil.gov