Webster resident Jay Coward called this falling down building off N.C. 116 "dangerous to the public health and safety of the people of Webster."
In three separate cases, Webster board members learned during their March 20 meeting that they may be required to take legal action against town property owners. Speaking as a private citizen, attorney and resident Jay Coward cautioned board members about the "dilapidated, run down, disgrace to our little town," referring to a structure just off N.C. 116 that in the past had been used as a barn and chicken house. Calling the structure "dangerous to the public health and safety," Coward said, according to state statute 16A-193, the town had the authority "to remove, abate or remedy" the situation. If the property owner does not agree to voluntarily remove the hazard, the town can remove it at the owner's expense, Coward said. "If the property owners don't pay, it can be used as a lien against their property," he said. "The town needs to take action on this because it is a hazard for any kids in the neighborhood who go exploring there," Coward said, adding that the town has a responsibility in the issue. "If it is public record that you have been notified about this danger, and you don't take any action and that thing falls on some kid, you - the town - could be liable," Coward told board members. At Mayor Steve Gray's recommendation, the board agreed to send the property owners a copy of the statute and a letter requesting the structure be removed within 60 days. Board members also discussed legal action against the owner of a sawmill operation on South River Road who has disregarded letters from town attorney Orville Coward Jr. to cease operating a business in a residential neighborhood. "It is clearly a violation of our zoning ordinance," said board member Louise Bedford, who suggested the town levy fines against the property owner for each day of non-compliance. Gray said he would meet with the town's attorney to determine legal steps to take in the matter. Board members also discussed notifying the owner of the newly-erected Tuckaseigee River Fish Camp that, as a business, it is also out of compliance with the same zoning ordinance. In other business, Gray reported that according to Chris Buchanan of Buchanan and Sons Paving Co. the sidewalk project could be completed next week when Jackson County public schools are on spring break. Citing health reasons, Bedford resigned her position from the board. |