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LOCAL NEWS
City Declares Property Uninhabitable

Placard placed at 610 S. Locust Street.

City Declares Property Uninhabitable

A recent inspection conducted by the City of Delavan’s Certified Building Code Official has deemed the property at 610 South Locust Street, owned by Sarah Tomm of Green Valley, unsafe for habitation. Following a thorough assessment on April 11, 2025, inspectors documented critical structural, electrical, and habitability violations, prompting immediate enforcement action under city ordinances.

Structural & Safety Concerns

The inspection revealed significant hazards compromising the integrity of the structure, including foundation cracks, missing siding, and rotting porch supports that pose risks to occupants. Additionally, detached floor joists were discovered, raising alarms about potential collapse.

Electrical Hazards & Fire Risks

Further examination uncovered exposed wiring and outdated electrical systems, failing to meet National Electrical Code compliance. Inspectors also noted the absence of smoke detectors, posing life-threatening dangers in the event of a fire.

Additional Code Violations

The property also suffers from missing gutters that contribute to erosion and foundation damage, alongside broken windows that jeopardize security, ventilation, and emergency egress. Inspectors cited multiple violations under Title 4, Chapter 2 & 10 of the City Code, identifying the building as unsafe, a public nuisance, and unfit for occupancy.

Enforcement Measures & Next Steps

Under Sections 4-10-8 through 4-10-12, City officials possess the authority to placard and vacate the premises, order necessary repairs or demolition, and place liens for abatement costs if corrective actions are not taken. The property will remain off-limits to occupancy until a certified inspection verifies compliance with safety and sanitation requirements.

A formal notice will be issued to the owner, mandating the correction of all violations by licensed professionals. If compliance is not achieved within the allotted timeframe, the City may proceed with legal enforcement or demolition orders.

Residents with concerns or inquiries regarding the inspection can contact the city for further details.

 


Robert Fang

Robert Fang
Editor / Publisher

Robert Fang is the Editor and Publisher of The Delavan Dispatch. He is a career professional in the newspaper and publishing industries and has been a member of the Delavan community since 2004.


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