San Antonio residents press council to address abandoned property hazards

February 06, 2025 | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas


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San Antonio residents press council to address abandoned property hazards
The San Antonio Building Standards Board convened on February 6, 2025, to address pressing issues concerning a deteriorating property located at 110 Lorita Drive. The meeting highlighted significant community concerns regarding the impact of the vacant structure on neighborhood safety and quality of life.

The session began with a report from a police officer who noted that the area surrounding the property has become a hotspot for criminal activity, including loitering and foul odors. The officer indicated that the property has attracted a large homeless population, contributing to increased foot traffic and safety concerns. He confirmed that there are no schools nearby, but the accessibility of the area to the homeless community has raised alarms among residents.

Residents Jesse and Sandra Garcia, who live adjacent to the property, expressed their frustrations over ongoing issues since the previous owner’s death. They reported problems with rodents and the unkempt state of the yard, which often grows to six feet high. The Garcias have attempted to maintain their property and have even offered to help with the grass, but their efforts have been met with indifference from the deceased owner's family.

Ken Pruske, a neighbor, described the property as a "house from hell," detailing how it has negatively affected property values and attracted unwanted attention. He mentioned that the family of the deceased owner has been unresponsive to inquiries about the property, leaving the community feeling helpless. Pruske noted that the property has accumulated significant tax liens, making it unlikely to sell in its current condition.

Connie Pruske echoed these sentiments, sharing her concerns for her children and grandchildren's safety due to the presence of homeless individuals near the property. She highlighted the risk of fire, recalling a previous incident where a nearby house caught fire due to similar circumstances.

The board members listened attentively to the residents' testimonies, acknowledging the serious implications of the vacant property on community safety and well-being. The meeting concluded with a call for action regarding the property, as board members considered potential next steps to address the ongoing issues raised by the community.

Overall, the discussions underscored the urgent need for intervention to resolve the challenges posed by the neglected property at 110 Lorita Drive, with residents advocating for a solution that would restore safety and stability to their neighborhood.

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Scribe from Workplace AI
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