By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Although it could take several months to get it done, two buildings in Decatur seem likely headed for demolition.
The city’s building and zoning department has been dealing with owners of structures at 617 Winchester St. and 728 Schirmeyer for lengthy periods of time and getting no results.
Curt Witte, building/zoning superintendent, recently told the city’s board of works and safety that his department has gone back and forth with the Schirmeyer St. owner – a company in Florida – for a long period of time.
It is gutted on the inside, been damaged by fire, and failed to sell at a tax sale, he said.
The vacant building on Winchester St. is locally owned, but the city hasn’t been able to bring about a cleanup after attempts have been ongoing for around a year.
In one area of the building, the foundation is falling in, Witte said.
At one point, he noted, the owner told Witte’s department that he intended to demolish the structure and build anew … but that hasn’t happened and communication has ceased.
The board of works authorized Witte to begin condemnation proceedings on both structures.
Owners will be notified that they have 60 days to make repairs or remove the buildings. If not done within that time frame, the buildings will be condemned and scheduled for demolition.
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