Friday, April 26, 2024
Based on the progress made, the Gatesville City Council granted leniency to one person regarding a substandard structure and imposed fines on another for a lack of progress.
During an update on the substandard house at 308 Fennimore, City Manager Bill Parry said Dennis Berry of Waco is unable to travel to update the council in person because of medical reasons.
"The house has not passed an electrical inspection because sheetrock hasn't been painted," Parry said. "Technically, we think right now that's all it's lacking. I believe he's got every intent of doing this, but we need to stay on him. Everything is ready for inspection as soon as it is painted."
Although penalties could have been imposed on Berry, the Council opted not to do so because of efforts being made. Parry noted that a contractor was hired to work on the Fennimore Street property and that substantial progress has been made.
The Council had a much different reaction regarding a substandard house at 2006 Bridge St. owned by Josiah Wilson of Buda, Texas.
"The Council on November 15 gave Josiah Wilson until February 15 to complete repairs, and he was supposed to report back on February 28," Parry said. He asked for 12 weeks (to complete work), which the Council gave him. He is out of town and couldn't be here. He sent an email extolling the virtues of how good it looks on the outside.
"It still needs plumbing work. A lot of work has been done by someone not licensed to do plumbing, and it will have to be redone. The house does have a new roof and a fresh coat of paint. I sent a response saying I needed a more definitive timeline of when things will be done. He has not responded."
Councilman John Westbrook asked what the hangup has been regarding the Bridge Street property.
"His electrician got COVID, and he had to fire his contractor," Parry said. "He also has another house at 205 North 19th Street and a house for sale on state school road. He appears to have bitten off more than he can chew."
Mayor pro tem Meredith Rainer said the Council has given Wilson ample opportunities and time to get work done.
"My concern is if we are too lenient, he'll never get it done," she said.
"It irritated me last time (Wilson appeared before the Council) with his song and dance when Mr. Parry informed us he has other substandard properties," Councilman Greg Casey said.
Parry said imposing financial penalties was an option for the Council.
"If (the city) issues citations, maybe that will get him in here," he said. "He can talk to the prosecuting attorney and the judge to determine what he's going to do. He's got way more than two weeks before he's finished. Based on my experience, he's probably three months out from getting work done."
Wilson faces a fine of up to $500 per day until work is completed.
Councilwoman Barbara Burrow asked about the council considering demolition of the house.
"You can do that," Parry said. It sends a pretty strong statement. You can enforce the existing demolition order. It's been over a year (since Wilson was ordered to bring the house into compliance with city requirements)."
Rainer suggested fines were the most appropriate action at this time.
"I'm OK with giving him a fine every day until he shows back up and takes care of it," she said.
Parry said that Wilson seems to be getting more work done on the 19th Street house than the Bridge Street house in hopes of selling it more quickly.
"I believe he has cash flow issues," he said.
The council approved fines against Wilson, effective March 1, until the work is completed, so the house is brought up to code.
