Memorandum
City of Lawrence
Planning & Development Services
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TO: |
David L. Corliss, City Manager
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FROM: |
Brian Jimenez, Code Enforcement Manager
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CC: |
Scott McCullough, Director Planning & Development Services
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Date: |
October 21, 2010
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RE: |
1313 Haskell
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On October 19, 2010 the City Commission directed staff to delay the demolition of the principal building and accessory garage located at 1313 Haskell, as significant changes in circumstance occurred with a contract for purchase of the property being submitted to staff just prior to the October 19 Commission meeting. The prospective new owner, James Grauerholz, informed the Commission that it was his intention to save the house if possible and would only consider demolition if he and his partners determined the rehabilitation was not feasible.
The City Commission deferred the matter to the October 26, 2010 City Commission meeting to provide Mr. Grauerholz and staff the opportunity to meet at the site to review the scope of the project in more detail so that the Mr. Grauerholz understands what is expected of Resolution No. 6885.
Staff met with James Grauerholz, Michael Almon, Mike Myers, Allen Belot and Tom Peschio on October 21st. After inspecting the exterior and interior of the structures, all in attendance have a good understanding of the severity of the dilapidation and the significant scope of the rehabilitation. Mr. Grauerholz informed staff that he will be preparing his plan of action to present to the City Commission for the meeting on October 26, 2010.
It was acknowledged that a cost analysis for the rehabilitation of the house may take additional time which would ultimately determine if the group would proceed with attempting to save the house. Mr. Grauerholz and his partners all agreed that the rehabilitation of the detached garage was not feasible therefore the demolition of the structure would occur.
Staff believes the change in circumstance warrants additional time to allow Mr. Grauerholz the opportunity to save the house by determining if it is a feasible rehabilitation project that can become compliant with all applicable city codes. Staff does not believe it is necessary to manage the project as was done with 617 W. 4th St. since there is a standing order to demolish the structures if the items of Resolution No. 6885 are not completed in a timely manner. Staff believes that 60 days would be a prudent time period for the new owner to complete the items identified within the resolution as well as removing all items stored within the house to enable Mr. Grauerholz and his partners to complete an accurate assessment of the costs associated with a complete rehabilitation. Staff anticipates working closely with Mr. Grauerholz and Mr. Almon until the property is compliant with city code; whether it be the repair of the house or demolition of both structures if it is determined that the costs to repair the house is not feasible.
The City Commission’s recommended options on this matter include: