Bethel weighs city-funded demolition program for blighted properties

Bethel's Planning Commission is set to debate a draft policy on July 9 that would let the city fund demolition of hazardous or fire-damaged structures, then either waive the cost or place a lien on the property depending on whether the owner follows through on a redevelopment agreement.

The July 9 agenda also includes a discussion of a draft rewrite of the city's nuisance ordinance and an update on nuisance property progress. Written public comments may be submitted to [email protected] by 4 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

The nuisance-property tracking spreadsheet in the commission packet lists dozens of addresses at various enforcement stages. Planning Commission member and council representative Rose Henderson flagged the problem at the May 14 meeting. "I have concerns about the burnt down properties," Henderson said.

The program is not an entitlement. Participation depends on annual budget availability, and owners must demonstrate financial hardship and submit a written statement identifying the anticipated future use of the property following demolition. If an owner fulfills a Voluntary Compliance and Redevelopment Agreement, the city may waive demolition costs. If not, the city may recover costs through a lien.

The commission's action will be a recommendation. Under the draft policy, final approval authority rests with the city manager for projects within approved budget authority, or with the City Council when required by procurement or budget policy.