Action 13 has spent the entire week endeavoring to provide a southwest Houston neighborhood with clarity regarding debris left from an illegally demolished building.
The city has verified that the remaining rubble poses a hazard and asserts that it is the property owners’ responsibility to address it. Despite the city’s efforts to locate the owners, they have been unsuccessful in reaching them. Consequently, the city has taken the initiative to clean up the debris themselves and intends to place a lien on the property for the abatement costs.
The Houston Department of Neighborhoods has stated that cleanup crews are anticipated to clear the debris within the week. When and SkyEye13 visited the site on W. Bellfort Avenue and South Post Oak, a contractor hired by the property owner had already begun the cleanup process.
Through an investigation conducted by , the property owners were identified. During a phone conversation, informed them of the city’s intention to discuss the property. However, the owners claimed that their contractor was scheduled to complete the cleanup on January 10, after commencing work in November.
Subsequently, the contractors hired by the property owners began cleaning up the debris onsite. However, the city revealed that the contractor had not obtained permits for debris removal, prompting the work to halt. The Department of Neighborhoods instructed the contractors to cease clearing the debris until proper permits are secured. Additionally, the property owners will receive citations for attempting to clear the debris without city permits.
Councilwoman Abbie Kamin, representing the district, expressed concern over the hazard posed by the debris. She emphasized the importance of resolving the issue promptly and advocated for securing the site with fencing.
The Department of Neighborhoods has expedited the debris removal process and aims to have the lot cleared within the next week. However, they are awaiting confirmation from the property owner that the cleanup will proceed as planned. Should the owners fail to comply, the city may proceed with abatement and place a lien on the property.
Councilwoman Kamin commended the city’s efforts to address the hazardous situation and reiterated her commitment to ensuring accountability from the property owner. Despite the initial assurance of cleanup within a week, the Department of Neighborhoods has not provided a definitive timeline, pending confirmation from the owners and acquisition of proper permits.
