During the Wichita Falls City Council meeting on June 17, 2025, significant discussions centered around the status of various properties deemed hazardous, with property owners seeking extensions and clarifications on their situations. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges of maintaining safety and addressing deteriorating structures within the community.
One of the key discussions involved a property owner at 4119 Blanton Street, who has owned the house since 1972. The owner expressed concerns about the condition of the property, which has been vacant for 17 years and has suffered from break-ins and fire damage. The owner requested an additional 90 days to remove personal belongings before the city proceeds with demolition. The council agreed to allow this extension, emphasizing the importance of communication between the property owner and city officials to facilitate the sale of the property.
Another property discussed was located at 1107 Burnett, which has been severely damaged by fire and has been vacant since March 2017. The council noted that the property had no taxes owed but was in a state of significant disrepair, prompting discussions about its future.
George Foster, a property owner of 1306 Gladiola Street, addressed the council regarding his plans to restore a property that has been on the demolition list. He indicated that he had already begun cleanup efforts and pulled necessary permits, seeking more time to complete the restoration. The council acknowledged his progress and encouraged him to continue working with city officials to ensure the property meets safety standards.
The meeting also featured a contentious discussion regarding a property at 1711 Fairfax Avenue, where the owner claimed that city actions had led to damage on their property. The owner argued that the structure was safe and questioned the basis for the city's concerns. City officials reiterated that the property posed a fire hazard and required immediate attention to prevent potential collapse.
Overall, the council's discussions underscored the delicate balance between property rights and community safety. The city is committed to addressing hazardous structures while providing property owners with opportunities to rectify issues. As the council moves forward, they will continue to monitor these properties and work with owners to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The next steps will involve follow-ups on the progress of restoration efforts and further evaluations of properties still on the demolition list.