During the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting on April 7, 2025, significant discussions centered around property demolition and adjustments to permit fees, reflecting ongoing efforts to address community safety and financial sustainability.

One of the primary topics was the order for the demolition of a property located at 4355 Grama Road. The property had been deemed unfit for human habitation due to severe deterioration, including a partially demolished double-wide trailer and an abandoned above-ground pool. Following a complaint from neighbors in January 2023, the county attempted to engage with the property owners but received no further communication. Consequently, the county's construction standards department recommended demolition, which was approved by the board. The property owners will be responsible for the demolition costs, and if unpaid within 30 days, a lien will be placed on the property. This measure aims to ensure that the county does not bear the financial burden of the demolition.

In addition to the demolition discussion, the board reviewed a proposed permit fee schedule aimed at aligning fees with the actual costs of services provided. The adjustments were based on a study conducted by Watford Consult, which highlighted the need for increased fees, particularly for multifamily dwellings, due to the higher time and resources required for inspections and plan reviews. While most fees remained unchanged, some were decreased to encourage compliance and permit acquisition among homeowners. Notably, the proposal included a flat fee structure for single-family dwellings, simplifying the previous tiered system.

The board expressed a commitment to recouping costs associated with inspections, particularly for larger construction projects, ensuring that the county's financial interests are protected while maintaining safety standards in building practices. The new fee structure is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following positive feedback from local builders.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's proactive approach to managing unsafe properties and ensuring that permit fees reflect the true costs of service, ultimately benefiting the community's safety and financial health.