The properties at 214 North 11th St. and 1102 Grace St. showed signs of dilapidation, including a crumbling foundation, rotten siding, exposed electrical wires, and evidence of termites, cockroaches, and rodents.
One person died in the first property in June. Both are managed by Jeremy Bailey, who was heavily criticized by the council in a previous meeting for poor conditions in other properties he managed. The city also voted to demolish those properties at that time.
Related: City Council pillories "slumlord" Nine Lives, LLC for profiting off poor conditions
Bailey did not attend Tuesday’s council meeting.
Councilmember Charlie Rivenbark suggested looking into possible criminal charges or other measures of discipline towards the property manager.
Member Kevin Spears agreed and said, "we’re responsible for doing something about people who are taking advantage of other people in this manner.”
According to Brian Renner, the city’s code enforcement officer, the property on North 11th Street was recently vacated, but three tenants still live in the dwelling on Grace Street. They will have 45 days to leave the property before it’s boarded up.
The properties will be demolished in 131 days, unless they are repaired, which Renner said isn't likely.
