Franklin Township plans to condemn buildings
FRANKLIN TWP. – Franklin Township Supervisors announced Monday that the township plans to begin the condemnation process Nov. 19 on four structures located on Smithcreek Road. Supervisors Chairman Reed Kiger said that following the Aug. 20 hearing, the homeowner was allotted 90 days to repair or remove the structures, or the township would begin condemnation proceedings.
Kiger added that the township is required to notify the property owner before beginning the condemnation proceedings.
The property is owned by Kim Moler of Ohio, who inherited the property. Kiger said Moler has taken no action to repair or remove the structures.
Mike and Helena Dulaney attended the supervisors meeting in July to express their concerns over the neighboring homes. The couple feared that one of the houses, located at 2630 Smithcreek Road, could potentially catch on fire. They said that they saw the tenant carrying gas tanks into the home, and they said the home does not meet code.
Steve Coss, township code enforcer, said in July that the township solicitor filed a letter to inspect the home, but the homeowner refused. As of Monday, five months later, the township is still unable to access the home.
A hearing was scheduled for July but was postponed. An argument was scheduled for Aug. 14, and the rescheduled hearing took place Aug. 20.
Kiger said that if the property owner does not take action by Nov. 19, the township will contract a bidder to tear down the structures and will place a lean on the property.
Kiger added that although the process has been long, the township supervisors worked through the legal system to avoid any potential lawsuits.