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Last modified: Wednesday, October 28, 2009 3:03 PM CDT
Repair deadline past, city to file complaint
by Erin C. Hevern • Daily News
Todd Johnson, Wahpeton's building code inspector, told the city's Public Works and Safety Committee Tuesday that minimal repairs have been completed at numerous parcels needing restoration in Town Centre Square.
The largest repairs — roof improvements and de-contamination of the basement — remain untouched.
And now that the deadline for repairs has passed, Johnson anticipates a complaint to be drafted and filed to the owners, Jerry Meide and US Bank trustees, once he can meet with Steve Lies, city attorney.
"They've had ample time and ample warning, so I think we'll get their attention with a complaint, hopefully," Johnson said.
The 400 Block Partnership and Bookhaven properties remain in disrepair too, although the process is stalled as they're both pending trial in April 2010.
Johnson said an asbestos removal contractor would be finishing a job Tuesday at 418 Dakota Avenue, a property recently acquired by the Three Rivers Arts Council for an art gallery.
Meide, who by contract was required to complete interior demolition of the property, failed to contact the North Dakota Department of Health for an asbestos inspection prior to clearing out materials from the building.
As part of an investigation, a state health official arrived at the property and deemed the area unclear of asbestos.
"What they do is they typically clean up the material that was disturbed, check for air clearances to make sure the fibers are not airborne. They always perform clearances before re-occupancy," said Mark Dihle, state health department asbestos coordinator.
Dihle added that their office is still collecting information and working on the case.
"The state is going to have to deal with Jerry on the appropriate punishment for not notifying them properly," Johnson said.
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