A recent government hearing addressed the condition of a property located at 401 Garber Street, which has been deemed a dangerous structure. The hearing was convened to evaluate the state of the property following complaints from neighbors about severe infestations of rodents and other animals, prompting an inspection by borough officials.

Andrew Holodnik, the Director of Community Development for Lawlisburg, testified that the property is currently owned by the deceased Douglas Fluke. The borough received multiple complaints regarding the property, including reports of approximately 1,000 mice, skunks, groundhogs, and carpenter bees. An on-site inspection revealed significant health and safety violations, including overgrown vegetation, garbage, and hazardous living conditions inside the home.

Holodnik detailed the inspection process, noting that letters were sent to Fluke's relatives, including his ex-spouse and daughter, to inform them of the hearing. However, many of these notices went unanswered, as the property has been unoccupied since Fluke's passing.

Photographic evidence presented during the hearing illustrated the extent of the neglect, showing rooms filled with garbage, animal feces, and unusable furniture. The conditions were so severe that Holodnik required a respirator during the inspection due to the overwhelming stench.

If the council determines that the property meets the criteria for a dangerous structure, the borough plans to initiate cleanup efforts, which would involve removing all waste and restoring the property to a safe condition. This action aims to mitigate hazards to neighboring properties and improve community standards. The council is expected to deliberate on the findings and make a decision regarding the future of the property in the coming weeks.