Gainesville looks for better policy on dangerous structures

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville City Council has passed amendments on second reading to improve the city's ordinance on 'structures dangerous to public health.'

The amendments, recommended by the city attorney, add muscle to the city's ordinance but are also aimed at working with building owners, according to City Manager Kip Padgett. One amendment provides for the use of revenues, grants and donations to repair or demolish unfit buildings or structures.

"We've got some buildings we're looking at that we're trying to work with the property owners on," Padgett said. "We're trying to remedy some situations so we'll have to see how that progresses."

Amendments would also allow for injunctions against an order of a public officer to repair, close or demolish an unfit building. However, it adds that no provision in this chapter 'shall be construed as preventing the taking of unfit buildings or structures by eminent domain'. Again, Padgett said the city wants to work with the building owner first.

"Our first step is to work with the property owners to improve the building for the health, wealth, safety and welfare of the community," Padgett said.