Cheyenne moves forward with demolition template after first blight win; about 10 problem properties remain
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Summary
City staff described one completed demolition under the blight initiative and said roughly 10 problematic vacant or boarded properties remain; time and legal processes slow acquisitions and demolition.
Director Eric Fountain told the council the city recently completed a demolition under the blight initiative and now owns the cleared lot after foreclosure, asbestos abatement and demolition work.
Fountain said the process was lengthy and that a template the city used for that property can now guide future efforts. He said the city is tracking about 10 problematic properties—some boarded, some foreclosed, some with absent owners—and that legal timelines and owners’ property rights can slow the process.
Why it matters: Boarded and blighted properties can depress neighborhood condition and require repeated cleanups. Fountain said the city has discussed options including a land bank and directed disposal, but that choices will involve legal and policy decisions and are time‑consuming to execute.
Supporting details: Fountain said one severe property in the Foxcroft area and others in newer developments are among the difficult cases; some owners are in probate or foreclosure and others are not cooperating. He praised the administration’s work to finish the recent demolition and said the city is examining land‑bank and disposition strategies.
Ending: Fountain asked for continued support and patience while staff use the demolition template and pursue foreclosure or sale pathways to return vacant lots to productive use.