Decatur Neighbors Urge Action on Neglected Vacant Properties

Decatur Residents Speak Up About Vacant Properties

In Decatur, GA, an ongoing conversation about vacant properties has residents concerned about the state of their neighborhoods. The focus recently shifted to two specific lots on Glendale Avenue that have fallen into disrepair, stirring up emotions and prompting city officials to take action.

City Responds to Code Violations

The city commission has given the green light for a closer inspection and corrective action on properties located at 335 and 339 Glendale Ave. These homes have sat unattended for years, following the passing of their owner. City Manager Andrea Arnold shared that the family of the deceased owner is currently going through a probate process, which has stalled any direct communication about the properties.

In 2022, the city had already authorized a cleanup of these neglected lots, but according to Cynthia Hardnett, the city’s Code Enforcement Officer, the properties still resemble an overgrown jungle with tall weeds, fallen tree limbs, and broken branches. At a recent city commission meeting, Hardnett remarked, “The property has been vacant for a number of years. The property owner is known to be deceased, and we have not had any contact with any family members.”

Concerns from the Community

Local residents like Mitchell Green have raised their voices about the pressing issue. He stated, “As a reminder, the city did make moves on these two properties about…2.5 years ago. We appreciate the move that was made, and it’s really time to take further action.” Some neighbors have expressed apprehension not only about the exterior of these homes but also have pointed fingers at their structural integrity. Nancy Green, another resident, added, “The structures themselves are the problem. They’re falling apart. The roofs are falling down. There are no gutters anymore. The windows are broken.”

Possible Solutions and New Measures

The issue has led city officials to consider amending existing codes to tighten enforcement. Assistant City Manager Angela Threadgill emphasized the need for a discussion with the city attorney for potential changes. “If we want to have more intensive authority for code enforcement, we might need to consider future amendments,” she suggested.

Deputy City Manager David Junger added that if the situation requires more than basic securing of the properties, there could be a pathway toward nuisance abatement, which might culminate in a demolition order issued by municipal court. “If it’s dilapidated to the point it’s no longer safe, then we could take it to the city attorney’s office,” he explained.

Ongoing Issues at Ferndale Drive

Shifting attention slightly, the discussion around vacant properties isn’t limited to the Glendale area. The city commission has also had ongoing issues with properties like 2284 Ferndale Drive, which has racked up code violations multiple times since 2019. The owner, Deloris Pringle, lives out of state and has been uninterested in addressing the property’s issues, leading to complaints due to tall weeds, overgrown hedges, and even a dead tree.

In a previous meeting, Mayor Patti Garrett queried whether the city could enforce a more stringent approach, perhaps making it more inconvenient for owners to neglect their properties. City Manager Arnold acknowledged the challenge presented by absentee owners, saying, “This property has been a challenge for over a decade in many ways. It’s a blight in the neighborhood.”

Moving Forward

The city commission demonstrated a strong desire to enhance measures to tackle vacant properties effectively. “I’m all for making sure that we go through the proper steps to secure a property structure if it is not securable,” Mayor Pro Tem Tony Powers stated. He also cautioned fellow commissioners about ensuring equitable treatment across the community.

As Decatur moves forward, residents are hopeful that these discussions will lead to tangible actions that improve their neighborhoods. It seems clear, as many have voiced, that ensuring all homes contribute positively to the community is a priority they won’t let fade.