Officials discuss urgent roof collapse at West Hobbs Creek fire site

Yeadon Borough officials are grappling with concerns over a property on West Hobbs Creek, where a fire has left the roof in a precarious state. During the recent council caucus meeting, members expressed frustration over the slow response to what they perceive as an imminent danger to public safety.

The discussion centered around the property’s deteriorating condition, with council members questioning the timeline for inspections and actions. A structural engineer is set to evaluate new photographs of the roof, which has been collapsing progressively. However, the code department's protocol requires a 30-day notice to the property owner before any further action can be taken, a timeline that some council members find unacceptable given the potential hazards.

Council member Megan raised concerns about the code department's approach, emphasizing that the roof's ongoing collapse poses a significant risk. She questioned why immediate action was not taken when the issue was first reported, suggesting that the situation should have been treated as an emergency.

The solicitor clarified that the code department must first classify the property as an imminent danger before any urgent measures can be enacted. This classification process is crucial, as it dictates the subsequent steps that can be taken to secure the property. The solicitor noted that the current assessment may not meet the threshold for immediate intervention, which has led to the perceived delay.

The council's ongoing discussions reflect a broader concern for community safety and the need for efficient processes in dealing with hazardous properties. As the situation develops, the council is expected to push for a more proactive approach to ensure that public safety is prioritized. The next steps will depend on the structural engineer's findings and the code department's subsequent actions.