Tuesday night's City Council meeting found Jeff Waltz asking City Council not to tear down his historic house in Springfield. This house has been on the Formal Track, has been handed over to demo contractors, and will be coming down next week.
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2296-1.jpg)
QuoteJeff Waltz: So..... Do you really think you have property rights The city of Jax wants to tear my house down and they did not even bother to tell me. The only reason it is still standing is because the contractor found asbestos in the fireplace.It will be gone by this time next week if I can't stop them.
quoted from facebook.
City Council meetings are available online. This meeting is from 8/24/10 and available for viewing here:
http://media.coj.net/City_Council/Council%208-24-10.wmv
His moment in time is: 01:107
I have yet to have the opportunity to look at this house close up but I did do the drive by and the house seems straighter and truer than many in the community and while I did notice a missing pier under the bump-out, the bump-out is not sagging. From the eye of a restoration contractor, this house is an easy fix and is not this unsafe structure that needs to be demolished before it falls down.
It seems there are some who would rather see Springfield a vast 'parking lot' rather than the beautiful historic neighborhood it should be shown once again to be!
I was at the meeting and spoke at 1:53, 2:08, and 2:26. For some reason my volume isn't working so I didn't hear Jeff at 1:07.
It may be a stretch but listen to my 2:26 address to council on an ord. that had to do with a taxpayer bailout for the SBA. From the pic it seems to me that the city should immediately PROVIDE FOREGIVENESS. Take this up as an emergency too.
Jeff said "Please don't tear down my house." -- in so many words.
(& btw, a pleasure to meet you, noone-- you speak well).
Quote from: just_chi on August 29, 2010, 11:36:26 AM
It seems there are some who would rather see Springfield a vast 'parking lot' rather than the beautiful historic neighborhood it should be shown once again to be!
It is "demolition by reckless policy" more so than intent, I believe, chi.
The address is 423 Walnut Court if you want to see it before it is gone.
In Jeff's words...a final plea to city council members via email:
QuoteIt would have been the nicest house on the
street.It is the largest house on the street and the only duplex. These
homes were built by true craftsmen, no power tools,every thing cut by
hand. Its really hard for me to imagine that. It took so much time to do
this compared to today's standards.The balloon Framing is just
incredible....
...to get a permit then they wanted homestead
papers. I considered moving my homestead but to do that it had to have a
certificate of occupancy. so that killed that idea.No permits. I can't
understand for the life of me why it has to be homesteaded to pull a
permit and as I understand it's not a state law it's a Duval county
rule.Discouraged I kept working on painting actually stripping every
last bit of old paint with chemical stripper, scrappers and sanders.
Unfortunately it was not fast enough for the city so they imposed fines
at $250.00 per day. That's about 15,000.00 per month..I gave up In close
I need enough time to sell or even give this house away to at least save
a part of Springfields History. ..
Quote from: sheclown on August 30, 2010, 09:08:13 AM
In Jeff's words...a final plea to city council members via email:
QuoteIt would have been the nicest house on the
street.It is the largest house on the street and the only duplex. These
homes were built by true craftsmen, no power tools,every thing cut by
hand. Its really hard for me to imagine that. It took so much time to do
this compared to today's standards.The balloon Framing is just
incredible....
...to get a permit then they wanted homestead
papers. I considered moving my homestead but to do that it had to have a
certificate of occupancy. so that killed that idea.No permits. I can't
understand for the life of me why it has to be homesteaded to pull a
permit and as I understand it's not a state law it's a Duval county
rule.Discouraged I kept working on painting actually stripping every
last bit of old paint with chemical stripper, scrappers and sanders.
Unfortunately it was not fast enough for the city so they imposed fines
at $250.00 per day. That's about 15,000.00 per month..I gave up In close
I need enough time to sell or even give this house away to at least save
a part of Springfields History. ..
If all the above is true, Springfield is being demolished by design. Blatantly.
This is really a sad case and it is a primary reason my wife and I didn't buy in Springfield when we were in the market last year. I don't understand why the city is so anxious to tear down neighborhood homes when stuff like the Park View Inn and that half-finished condo tower are left standing.
Quote from: Bativac on August 30, 2010, 10:08:58 AM
This is really a sad case and it is a primary reason my wife and I didn't buy in Springfield when we were in the market last year. I don't understand why the city is so anxious to tear down neighborhood homes when stuff like the Park View Inn and that half-finished condo tower are left standing.
Thank you for posting this comment. Some of us have been stating this hurts the market for years. While I personally understand how frustrating it can be to have a nicely restored house and live next door to one the owner has basically abandoned, it is still better than living next door to a vacant abandoned lot. If the structure stands hope lives. I lived like this for three years, mowing the house next door, boarding it up, etc etc and low and behold someone came along, bought it and it is beautiful now. If it had been a vacant lot it would still be there, overgrown and wild.
Quote from: uptowngirl on August 30, 2010, 10:35:24 AM
Thank you for posting this comment. Some of us have been stating this hurts the market for years. While I personally understand how frustrating it can be to have a nicely restored house and live next door to one the owner has basically abandoned, it is still better than living next door to a vacant abandoned lot. If the structure stands hope lives. I lived like this for three years, mowing the house next door, boarding it up, etc etc and low and behold someone came along, bought it and it is beautiful now. If it had been a vacant lot it would still be there, overgrown and wild.
Yeah -- we didn't want to buy a cheap house in need of renovation and then be faced with the city breathing down our necks to fix it or tear it down. We instead went with a 1950s brick home with good "bones" that we can take our time with improving.
When I hear stories like this, I always think of my dad, whose grandmother had a great big old house in Springfield. She'd lived there since the 1920s or 30s and lived there until she died, sometime in the 70s or early 80s. Every so often he'd drive by to look at the house. He finally quit when it became run down to the point where it upset him. Fast forward to a few years later - he drove out there to find all that was left was the front stoop. A few stairs. He wandered the lot looking for a doorknob, something, but everything was gone. So he sat on the steps, and called his brother, in disbelief, shed a couple tears, and left.
That was 2002? 2003? He hasn't been back since.
Quote from: Bativac on August 30, 2010, 12:36:40 PM
When I hear stories like this, I always think of my dad, whose grandmother had a great big old house in Springfield. She'd lived there since the 1920s or 30s and lived there until she died, sometime in the 70s or early 80s. Every so often he'd drive by to look at the house. He finally quit when it became run down to the point where it upset him. Fast forward to a few years later - he drove out there to find all that was left was the front stoop. A few stairs. He wandered the lot looking for a doorknob, something, but everything was gone. So he sat on the steps, and called his brother, in disbelief, shed a couple tears, and left.
That was 2002? 2003? He hasn't been back since.
There is just something about these old houses. They grab you by the heart. It may be all of the human touch that went into building them, or the millions of footsteps over a hundred years or so on the hardwood floors.
Whatever it is, they are not easy to let go of, that's for sure.
Where is the City Council rep on this?
Were certified mail notices sent to the owner of record? If not properly notified, he may have a legal stop to this as well.
How about SPAR?
Seems odd this is coming down to this last minute reprieve without more going on leading up to it. Reminds me of the Springfield car wash story. There has to be more than meets the eye.
Is the City bureaucracy literally bulldozing people or are people, out of ignorance, fear, or laziness not taking the City seriously until it's (almost) too late? I have been to code hearings and observed a real desire by the City to work with owners who simply show up and say they genuinely care about their property. Not taking the City's side, but not assuming the owner played their cards properly either.
I hope, if the building is worth saving, the City can back off. But, I wish owners would do their part to be more proactive in not tempting fate and letting these issues get to the edge of the precipice. What's the City to do if the owner doesn't respond to their notices?
If the man is right about the building permits, maybe the City Council needs to revisit the local ordinances. Again, where is the City Council district rep on this? Did he/she know of this before it went this far?
Oh, the owner should have done things differently, that is for sure.
But he didn't. He gave up and walked away two years ago after being injured and losing his job.
Threw his hands in the air.
Preservation SOS saw the green demolition sign and got in touch with the owner. We contacted the city. We have spent time and energy trying to renew his strength and energy. We want him to know that he has folks on his side, on the side of his house. He is meeting with people, writing emails, making phone calls.
As far as SPAR is concerned, you'll have to ask them if they support a moratorium on demolitions. I would hope they would.
Wonderful effort, Sheclown. It's people like you and your group that will ultimately change Jax. People who passionately care and don't stand idly by. Good luck. We need to save these buildings, no doubt.
Quote from: stjr
Where is the City Council rep on this?
Were certified mail notices sent to the owner of record? If not properly notified, he may have a legal stop to this as well.
How about SPAR?
Seems odd this is coming down to this last minute reprieve without more going on leading up to it. Reminds me of the Springfield car wash story. There has to be more than meets the eye.
Is the City bureaucracy literally bulldozing people or are people, out of ignorance, fear, or laziness not taking the City seriously until it's (almost) too late? I have been to code hearings and observed a real desire by the City to work with owners who simply show up and say they genuinely care about their property. Not taking the City's side, but not assuming the owner played their cards properly either.
I hope, if the building is worth saving, the City can back off. But, I wish owners would do their part to be more proactive in not tempting fate and letting these issues get to the edge of the precipice. What's the City to do if the owner doesn't respond to their notices?
If the man is right about the building permits, maybe the City Council needs to revisit the local ordinances. Again, where is the City Council district rep on this? Did he/she know of this before it went this far?
We, as a group met with the council member for this district, which is Gaffney. We asked him to help with a moratorium to temp stop all demos until each structure could be reviewed to see if in fact, it really is a threat to public safety...(meaning that it's about ready to come crashing down) Because many of the ones on the demo list are not, and this is one of them.
We asked for his help and all we got was basically, nothing....and later has said that it's all legal issues and that he needs to know what the community feels about it. Now he's not asked for any kind of public hearing, he's not asked for a community meeting, but he does seem to follow along with whatever spar wants...which is disturbing in of itself, since spar has been known to give the thumbs up for demos
Now the owner did drop the ball when he got frustrated and walked away...but finding out that he was being hit with a rolling 250 daily fine that has long since exceeded the value of the house...who wouldn't give up. The system is failing us and the ordinance which was changed with the help of councilman Davis (who is part of the north Florida builders assoc) so you tell me, did his hand at making it easier for the city to aggressively go after owners and demo by neglect...impact situations like this...you bet.
Davis is a NEFAR bufoon! Gaffney is no better................there has been an attempt to engage Dr Johnny in several issue's around Springfield and within his District..............total count, to this date, zero! If he wishes to run again....he needs to do the job he was elected for! If he won't.......get rid of him!
Quote from: stjr on August 30, 2010, 07:09:46 PM
Wonderful effort, Sheclown. It's people like you and your group that will ultimately change Jax. People who passionately care and don't stand idly by. Good luck. We need to save these buildings, no doubt.
Thanks! and Amen!
I hear that there is going to be a 'sit-in' on Jeff's front porch, anyone heard about that??
Interesting idea. Has anyone checked with Breaking Ground as to when they plan to roll the bulldozer?
It is wrong for the city of Jacksonville to bulldoze this man's house.
No reason justifies this act.
I do not believe this house will go "gentle into that good night."
"Rage, rage against the dying of the light."
To All [city officials involved in this process] :
Thank you for your time and attention in this matter.
Ms Scott, code enforcement really has a thankless job in this. We ask you to keep our neighborhoods safe and sound and then get nervous when your department does just that. I certainly can understand the impossible position here.
Jeff Waltz has been showing the house to several people and is waiting to hear if one option will work out. If this is the case, a current resident of the neighborhood, with available knowledge and assets, will take on the project.
I understand that it is frustrating to see the same homes come up year after year and that it must seem like no one will take them on. However, many of the houses in Springfield sat for a decade before being restored and now are beautiful assets to the city.
I believe, we as a city, need to take a fresh look at the condemned structures policy as it applies to historic structures. Historic structures cannot meet the public safety standard as applied to the rest of the city without being at risk of demolition. Just as building codes have adjustments made for historic structures, so too should historic dwellings meet a different standard as applies to public safety.
The only way for this to happen is to come up with a middle ground between restoration and demolition.
Code enforcement has boarded up 283 homes in the last couple of years. That is an enormous amount of work and the neighborhood is grateful. I understand that to continue to place condemned structures "on hold" will increase code enforcement's responsibility and work.
However, placing this structures on hold may very well be the only way we save them.
By adopting this position, the city will save many of its homes.
Today, this week... it is wrong to demolish Jeff Waltz's house... the historic district will lose a (relatively) sound home and will gain another empty lot. Let's take the time to explore other possibilities.
Once lost is gone.
Many thanks to each of you.
Baby, it ain't over 'till its over...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkURz6H0I0I&feature=related
What an excellent letter, She Clown.
Here's my contribution, sent to all council members, cc the mayor. I embedded the picture on this thread into the email at the end.
You may remember the owner of 423 Walnut Court standing before you begging for his home at the last council meeting on 8/24. We need your help. This historic house is not in imminent danger of collapse, as you can see by the embedded picture.
This is the latest...just two days after the council meeting: 08/26/2010 - 1998-4546 - Re-inspected by E.Lancaster, R.Prado, and K.Scott structure has piers missing or collasping, framewall, porch, roof and termite damage Proceed with demoltion E.Lancaster
Missing piers, porch damage and termite damage are all repairable, often at a surprisingly affordable cost. If this historic home is demolished, we have once again lost an important piece of our historic fabric. What is the hurry? This house is not a public safety hazard. It is not in danger of imminent collapse. Please....look at it. Do you really think it needs to come down immediately? It does not.
Please, we at Preservation SOS beg you to issue an IMMEDIATE moratorium on demolitions in the Springfield Historic District, and stop the demolition of this historic home, and any others, until we can address the issues. In the meantime, we ask you to contact Code Enforcement and put the demo hold back in place immediately, pending a work out of this situation.
Since this house is (obviously) pre-1978, anyone know what sort of "lead safe work practices" have to be put in place to demolish her?
Sheclown, Thanks for the kind words. I wrote a letter to councilman Gaffney. Copied the rest of the council. Hope it helps.
Noone.........if you get a responce from Gaffney, it will be the first one! That person is just useless for representing his district ...plain and simple! Springfield needs to round file him and get someone in there that would actually represent the people who put them into office!
then springfield needs a candidate--anyöne here feel like running for council?
It is important to understand that for years the Executive Director demanded that houses get torn down in the historic district. If Dr. Gaffney is a bit confused as to what to do right now, it is because he is getting mixed signals.
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So...where do we go from here?
elect someone new for city council
Quote from: Springfielder on September 03, 2010, 09:02:24 PM
elect someone new for city council
Or, I don't know, a mayor that isn't tied to developers and gives a rat's ass about the city's history?
you're right, I should've said that along with changing the council too
an email I sent out to city officials last night:
QuoteHello All,
Preservation SOS would like to take on Jeff Waltz's house, 423 Walnut Court, as a project house -- not to restore, but rather to "mothball" as is done in Cleveland,Ohio.
http://www.onntv.com/live/content/onnne ... ml?sid=102
In Cleveland, a group turns vacant houses into masterpieces by securing them and then painting "faux" life to create works of art. We, at Preservation SOS, would like to donate our time, talent and money to take this condemned structure and turn it into a safe and secure work of art using local craftsmen and artists.
We understand that this is not a permanent solution for this house, but rather a temporary, but beautiful, aid to save a historic structure.
All we need from you, is a stop on the demolition process and we can begin.
Thanks for your time,
Quote from: sheclown on September 03, 2010, 12:53:24 PM
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LMAO at the last line in those minutes...
I sent out this email with attached photo:
Hello Everyone,
As we finish up this 2010 Labor Day weekend, let us remember the civil and economic significance this holiday brings. As the schools start their new year, and sports teams host their season opening games, let this be a beginning for a new era of preservation in Springfield.
Preservation SOS would like to have the opportunity to mothball 423 Walnut Court owned by Jeff Waltz to provide an example of how a little creativity can turn a vacant structure into a safe and secure model of art.
The attached sample shows what "could be" if the demolition were halted on this sound historic home. We just need you to stop the demolition.
Thank you for your time,
Nicole Lopez
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs605.snc4/58537_1494963626049_1592832305_1207421_1338499_n.jpg)
HPC MEMBERS
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JASON TEAL, ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
jteal@coj.net
CHIEF CODE ENFORCEMENT
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CODE ENFORCEMENT
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MAYOR
jpeyton@coj.net
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SPAR
brenda@sparcouncil.org
http://jacksonville.craigslist.org/mat/1940456439.html
QuoteI have Approx 60 sheets give or take 12X4 $2.00 per sheet Or you can have the house for free I'M not kidding Just take deed to the property pay some back taxes and some nuisance liens the city is going to tear it down soon 423 walnut ct 904-334-5761 I will be their @ 10 am this morning.
(http://images.craigslist.org/3k23p63l15Y55O45V1a974bcb747c5bc41b1e.jpg)
Saw this on CL. It is making me sad.
A local artist has offered to paint one of his doors.
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2472.jpg)
from an email dated 9/2/10 and sent to city officials:
Quote...I have walked the house and in my opinion structurally the house is sound. There is no immediate danger of the home structurally failing. Please advise as to whom I need to speak to so that we can come to some agreement.
Eddie Johnson
President
W.E. Johnson General Contractors, Inc
CGC1507130/QB68490
Has there been any response to this email?
I will add my opinion...
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2478.jpg)
I have walked the house, as well, and in my opinion, the house is sound. I agree there is no immediate danger of the home structurally failing.
Gloria DeVall
Glory Homes, Inc.
Certified Building Contractor
CBC059741
While the previous ED of SPAR was pro-demolition, the current one is on the side of preservation for this house.
QuoteDear Ms. Scott,
Regarding the property at 423 Walnut Court, it is our understanding the owner has been in discussion with Eddie Johnson, of W.E. Johnson General Contractors, Inc. and that they are seeking a Stipulated Agreement to resolve the code violations and prevent demolition.
Though this property has been in the system for some time and it has an extensive history of violations without remedy, with Mr. Johnson's superior reputation as a contractor and experience with historic structures he is an excellent representative for dealing with this endangered structure.
Please consider any assistance you could provide to Mr. Johnson to move forward on preserving and renovating this property. In case you haven't connected with Mr. Johnson,.....
Thank you for your attention and consideration in this matter. I know you and Elaine have done an outstanding job addressing the concerns of Springfield and its historic structures. Elaine has only been the most professional and helpful in communication regarding the process of carrying our her responsibilities. We really are working together on all concerns.
Respectfully,
Brenda Boydston
SPAR Council
Executive Director
1321 N. Main St.
Jacksonville, FL 32206
...and I agree. It appears we are all working together on this issue.
Well I'll be damned. SPAR actually did the right thing...
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2483.jpg)
Jeff Waltz
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2476.jpg)
That picture of him says a thousand words. I have no money to offer, but I do have expertise, tools and a set of able hands to help.
Is all his plumbing/electric/mechanical in place?
Is there any chance the city can forgive the fines/penalties if he can finish the refurbishing and manage a workable deal to pay the overdue taxes? It seems a shame to take what was his vision as a punishment for whatever reason he was unable to adhere to the city's timetable, and money grab (errrr... sorry. That was probably uncalled for...) tax payment schedule. It occurs to me that Mr Waltz may have seen financial hardship like so many of us who have earned our living in the housing sector.
It's hard to finalize a project when the money runs dry.
@ buckethead: I'll pass your message to Jeff.
Lost Art on Walnut Court
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2485.jpg)
IME, COJ rarely drops code enforcement fines, unless they are forced to. I would suspect that with the current budget crunch, they're probably even more tight-fisted than usual about it, but it certainly couldn't hurt to ask. In all my dealings with them, Code Enforcement was never really interested in a win-win, they were just a bunch of tinpot dictators running around stroking their own egos and browbeating people with arcane and petty rules at the public's expense. With the exception of Bruce Chauncey that is, he was always the reasonable one over there. Code Enforcement's attitude explains why they allowed themselves to be used by SPAR, and also explains why we've had half of a National Historic District be demolished because of open windows, trash in the yard, uncut weeds, and other nonsense.
Never hurts to try though. Now that SPAR has been spanked and stuffed back in its cage, maybe Code Enforcement will be more reasonable about things.
QuoteThank you for the information. As I understand what you are telling me is the following:
If property changes ownership and is renovated the city will want a 255,000 check plus an additional 250/day that it takes for the property to be renovated.
Property taxes need to be paid.
If these are not done then the city will proceed with the demolition of the building.
Eddie Johnson
President
W.E. Johnson General Contractors, Inc
Eddie Johnson got this information from Dr. Gaffney's office.
This does not look good for Walnut Court.
Quote
Good Morning, Mr. Johnson,
Municipal government liens transfer with the property; liens (debts) remain with the property (regardless of the owner) until paid. Administrative liens “attach†to all of the owner’s personal property; for instance, if an owner receives an administrative lien for 123 Acme Street, this action “clouds†the titles for his/her other properties, thus hindering sale of other properties. In addition, administrative liens are recorded on public record at the Clerk of Courts’ Office; mortgage services, title companies, and banks research public records for such debts, which may hinder obtaining loans. In essence, an administrative lien is a civil penalty (financial), which leads to severe financial problems for the owner of record.
Mr. Johnson, you mentioned you “walked the houseâ€; it is a violation of law to enter an unsafe condemned structure without written permission of Municipal Code Compliance Division â€" the preceding includes the owner. In addition, Stipulated Orders are agreements between property owners and the City of Jacksonville â€" not contractors or prospective owners.
Mr. Waltz, one of several qualifications for Stipulated Orders signed under the current Amnesty Program (August 1, 2010 â€" October 29, 2010) is the applicant/owner cannot be “be personally indebted to the City of Jacksonville for any reason, including, but not limited to, ad valorem property taxes, special assessments, city utility charges, or other government-imposed fines against the propertyâ€. Property taxes for years 2008 ($1713.20), 2009 ($1314.55), and 2010 ($1141.01) remain unpaid; the Office of the Tax Collector has issued tax certificates for 2008 and 2009 property taxes. In addition, an unpaid nuisance lien remains against the parcel. You may view additional qualifications for the Amnesty Program at www.coj.net.
Kimberly Scott, M.P.A., Chief
Municipal Code Compliance Division
Environmental and Compliance Department
407 Laura Street, N., Ste. 200
Jacksonville, FL 32202
I don't understand this. It is illegal for a building contractor to walk through a condemned property without code enforcement's written permission? It is illegal for a homeowner to walk through his condemned property without code enforcement's written permission?
How can he check up on it and make sure it is okay? How can he monitor it? Resecure it? How can a contractor give a bid?
If this is true ... a condemnation is a death sentence for a house
Comb it.
I did.
I find nothing to support her statement.
I see it, but I don't see the word "violation" as directed to entering a property.
http://library.municode.com/HTML/12174/level2/TXIV_C518.html
Specifically 518.310 section b):
If the violator chooses to provide temporary repairs by securing and sealing the property, as stated hereinafter, he/she shall notify and obtain approval from the Chief for the temporary repairs. The Chief, when approving temporary repairs in the form of securing and sealing, shall state a reasonable time in which permanent repairs shall be made to the property. If permanent repairs are not made within the stipulated time, the Chief can cite the property for being in violation of this Part and take the necessary action to abate the nuisance.
So yeah, get permission to fix your OWN property, don't do it in the "stipulated time" and get cited. AGAIN. Even though the city has policy to mothball a historic home, they don't. And basically, this quote says, you can't board either without addressing the rest of the problems in the home in their time frame.
In this economy, in this time, this is unreasonable.
Let me add that most folks DON'T know or possess this information. People trying to do the right thing are getting caught up in a nasty system that does not protect our homes or assist homeowners properly. Punitive consequences cause people to throw up their arms and give up.
It seems policy might have more to do with "undesirable" people than "undesirable" structures.
Could this be a concerted effort to push out poorer property owners at the cost of demolishing the historic structures? Even if it isn't the intent, it is the result.
Time to go to council again?
It is the city council which sets these ordinances -- Code is doing what its boss, the city of Jacksonville, tells it to do. Until the ordinances are rewritten or amended, it will not change.
@ Uptown...absolutely. No other remedy.
And if the worse does happen, video tape and pictures to be spread around with the letters. This house is not failing, this house, while not livable is solid. Does the city have a structural engineers report? (I doubt it) but if they do a visit with the engineer is called for also. If the city is basing the destruction of historic properties on whether they are painted, and habitated, well I have know of a few new subdivisions with half finished houses just sitting-why are those not being fined and demolished??!! Ready Dr. Gaffney's letter made me think of an angry child. What happened to Dr. Gaffney wanting to help this homeowner?
I see Code Enforcement certainly hasn't changed one bit...
FWIW, the owner certainly has the right to be on or about their own property, Code Enforcement's legal interpretation is laughable on that point. Did these Code Enforcement idiots properly serve the owner with the notice of violation and the notice of hearing before the special master? Can someone get a copy of the judgment issued by the special master?
QuoteWith the exception of Bruce Chauncey that is, he was always the reasonable one over there.
Second that opinion from my experience.
From the pictures, that house has some really nice interior details. Love the archways.
When the city foolishly follows this theory of "take down the house and all will be well" this is what happens:
(http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af274/shelbylynnsmith/vacantlots_citydemolitions001.jpg)
(http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af274/shelbylynnsmith/vacantlots_citydemolitions013.jpg)
(http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af274/shelbylynnsmith/vacantlots_citydemolitions010.jpg)
(http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af274/shelbylynnsmith/vacantlots_citydemolitions009.jpg)
(http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af274/shelbylynnsmith/vacantlots_citydemolitions006.jpg)
(http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af274/shelbylynnsmith/vacantlots_citydemolitions002.jpg)
This is safer? Any idea how many rats, mice, roaches live in these mini little jungles? How much crime occurs hidden by view of these overgrown lots?
The city should be TAKING these properties and acutioning them off so someone who will take care of them!
Just returned from the city council meeting. Jeff made another plea, half angry, half crying.
Jack Webb put his foot down and called for a Noticed Meeting to deal with his house.
It is so very sweet when simple people with heavy hearts are listened to by their leaders.
Makes me want to dance.
Webb huh? I am making a list and he just got added to it! This council, with few exceptions, appears to pander to a select few and the voters ain't them! Gaffney is a charter member with all of the help he has provided! Something is wrong were when things are bulldozed down because of supposed Code Violations and you end up with what............an overgrown lot? I wonder if the City can fine itself, since this is their doing? Maybe we should call Code Enforcement and report those overgrown lots!
QuoteFrom: Scott, Kimberly [mailto:KSCOTT@coj.net]
Sent: Tuesday, September 14, 2010 9:51 AM
To: Eddie Johnson; Jeff Waltz; Lee, Denise; Johnson, Glorious; Webb, Jack; Teal, Jason; Gaffney, Johnny; Peyton, John
Subject: RE: Waltz/Johnson Information Request
Mr. Johnson, the city does not demolish buildings, due to non-payment of liens and taxes.
The property is released to a contractor for demolition; change in ownership does not prevent demolition. A Notice of Pending Lien, which notifies any prospective buyer of pending action and subsequent (demolition) lien, is filed on public record at the Clerk of Courts’ Office.
Kimberly Scott, M.P.A., Chief
Municipal Code Compliance Division
Environmental and Compliance Department
407 Laura Street, N., Ste. 200
Jacksonville, FL 32202
QuoteMrs. Scott;
I appreciate your assistance with this matter. Simply stated, I was looking for assistance from you regarding what would be required of me if I purchased this building. I was interested in doing so because I believed that it would be a good rehab project. However, since it appears that you are unable to assist me by providing a complete answer I am unable to proceed any further with my negotiations. Having been a long time resident of Springfield I find it unfortunate that the city has taken the position that you have stated. Having been a member of the Code Enforcement Board for this area, it was my understanding that the purpose for the fines was to push an owner to do something with the property or sell the property to someone who would. In this case, new ownership is thwarted by the City because no person would make an investment in a property with 255,000.00 of liens that continue to grow + rehab cost etc. Additionally, with the liens on the property banks will not provide any form of financing for the construction to take place. With this posture from the city all vacant homes in Springfield similar to this will ultimately be demolished and the city will be the owner of many new vacant lots in a grand neighborhood. Thank you again for your assistance.
Eddie Johnson
President
W.E. Johnson General Contractors, Inc
CGC1507130/QB68490
I'm a Riverside 2-story restoration owner,and have been working in Springfield a lot lately and see the platoons of city vehicles "Cruising for Trouble"
I am absolutely blown away by the efforts and expenses that some homeowners have gone to to rekindle the flame of an old handcrafted house. Hey look at the size of their recent roof jobs!! WOW! Just the Porches in Springfield are to be commended, we don't have these in any other part of our city.
It seems to me that the "Ideal Jacksonville resident" is viewed as the "Ponte Vedra Model"
the city is so blind to resources and possibly wealthy people that don't work for a bank or "Good ole boy club business" (think Richard Branson.
I have met some of these folks and don't see them so much as visionaries but as simply clear thinkers.
i may be biased as a restorer, but it takes a special kind of Man and Woman that restores and really learns about their residence.
The "PonteVedra Model" thinks this is just all "TOO ICKY" and it might ruin their manicures. ;D
I also won't go into detail...but let's just say I have seen dirt and pet contamination in Large Marsh Landing and PonteVedra homes.Their s*** stinks just like everyone else.
On a fun note...remember these houses were mostly built with no A/C..fans..power tools....and some good 1920's moonshine! ;D
+1 Eddie Johnson
+1 Uptown
So Kim says the city "does not demolish these houses" they just give out a contract to do so! How is this NOT demolishing houses? So I have to ask does she think we are this stupid, or is it her?
Okay, I wasn't that good at economics but how can the city afford to pay the cost of demo which has to be at least 10k? Boarding it up, as provided by their own ordinances, would cost less than a 10th of that. It just isn't good financial sense to demolish.
20k
Quote from: sheclown on September 15, 2010, 02:54:54 PM
20k
Even worse, 1/20th then. If this is our city's idea of financial competency then it explains why we have to cut pensions, library funding, parks maintenance, education, streetlights, etal.
http://www.coj.net/City+Council/CC+Mtgs+Online.htm#Council
click on 9/14/10 near the bottom
Jeff speaks at 1:28:50 (the counter at the bottom) followed by council member's comments.
In an odd turn of events, Jeff Waltz's house, 423 Walnut Court is up before the HPC this afternoon.
I only have questions.
Quote from: sheclown on September 22, 2010, 02:17:39 PM
In an odd turn of events, Jeff Waltz's house, 423 Walnut Court is up before the HPC this afternoon.
I only have questions.
Up for what?
I have heard that it was put on the agenda due to the press on the forums and at city council itself. I am hoping that the HPC votes to rescind it's previous approval based on the comments about the real condition of this house. Based on reading some interesting past HPC minutes, that is something they could do. Not sure what effect it would have with code enforcement, but it most certainly would make people stand up and take notice.
Additionally, I have been told by Ms. Kimberly Scott that 1626 Ionia is not on the formal track for demolition now. "our division routed the case for a hearing. We frequently rescind properties from formal bid, due to change in property/case status."
Quote from: iloveionia on September 22, 2010, 03:35:39 PM
Additionally, I have been told by Ms. Kimberly Scott that 1626 Ionia is not on the formal track for demolition now. "our division routed the case for a hearing. We frequently rescind properties from formal bid, due to change in property/case status."
To further quote iloveionia "Boo-yah!!!"
Could the tide be turning????? One can allways hope so!
CS:
Boo-yah!!!!!!!!! ;-) (LOL nvrenuf)
You bet! Holy crap! We were listened to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am BEYOND estatic and thankful!!!
Maybe there are more people reading this Forum than was thought? Either way, very very nice work and congrats to all involved.......something positive has taken place! Parden me while I go hoist a few in joy!
This is what it's all about, and it clearly shows that hard work and determination to do the right thing, pays off. I'm thrilled that 1626 Ionia is not on the formal track. What was the outcome for Walnut court?
Jeff told his sad tale again tonight. Eddie Johnson spoke on his behalf and stated that he would take on this project IF the rolling fines were forgiven.
According to the HPC, there is no way to stop Jeff's demolition as it stands right now. Once the house is given over to a demolition contractor to bid, the city is committed.
Our commissioner, Lisa Simon, said "I don't believe that is true. We've stopped demolitions plenty of times before if a new buyer is found...why would this be any different? We have a man who is interested in this house, why can't we stop it?"
As it was left, HPC asked that a letter be drafted to Code Enforcement asking for a stay until it can be decided if Jeff's house can pass to another owner without the burden of the liens.
I really don't believe anyone wants to see Jeff's house lost.
We may have offered Jeff knowledge, love, and support in the beginning, but man oh man. I am so proud of him and his fight for his house. He is not letting up. SOS made great leg way today by NOT letting up for these last months. I hope the same proves true for him and his home on Walnut Court.
It really is a team effort.
QuoteAccording to the HPC, there is no way to stop Jeff's demolition as it stands right now. Once the house is given over to a demolition contractor to bid, the city is committed.
Sheclown, it's silly to think the demo can't be stopped. This isn't an act of God. Could the solution be as easy as asking the demo contractor to voluntarily offer the City a chance to rescind the deal? After all, if the demo contractor went out of business prior to the demo, the City would find a way to rescind the contract. I would think the goodwill would make it worthwhile for the contractor and a demo job like this can't be that much money.
Another option would be, if the City could alleviate its liens, having someone redirect some small portion of the forgone alleged lien liabilities into an offer to the demo contractor as a "small token of appreciation" for their invested effort to secure the bid and then walk away from the job. Win-win.
stjr, I totally agree.
If I heard correctly, Jeff's house was included in a bundled bid and the demo contractor wasn't excited to find out it was in their bundle. I think they would prefer NOT to demo.
i'm not surprised--even leaving all other considerations aside for a moment, it can't be terribly fun to demolish something tucked back in the corner like walnut ct.
Quote from: iloveionia on September 22, 2010, 03:35:39 PM
Additionally, I have been told by Ms. Kimberly Scott that 1626 Ionia is not on the formal track for demolition now. "our division routed the case for a hearing. We frequently rescind properties from formal bid, due to change in property/case status."
She is certainly singing a different tune this week compared to last week. I am so happy to see all of these unnecessary demolitions ceasing. Walnut street needs to be saved, 4 or 5 different GCs/CBCs looked at that house and said there was nothing wrong with it. It is a travesty that it was bid out for demolition in the first place, and given the evidence that has now been collected after code enforcement deemed it a hazard to public safety when there were clearly no major structural problems, I would think COJ might be worried about potential liability to the owner for demolishing his house for no reason. If the city screwed up and ordered a sound house demolished then they need to suck it up and pay their contractor whatever the liquidated damages provision is and move on rather than continuing to insist on the needless and wrongful demolition of a sound structure. That's not the property's fault.
chris..............have you given any thought about going into real estate law? Not many are listed in the yellow pages and that seems to be a growing thing?
Quote from: CS Foltz on September 23, 2010, 03:44:08 PM
chris..............have you given any thought about going into real estate law? Not many are listed in the yellow pages and that seems to be a growing thing?
I gotta wait until they clear me for c&f and I'm sworn in before I can practice anything. I was in the real estate biz before I went back to school, though, and certainly know enough about it to hit the ground running if/when they finally let me join the club. I hadn't given it much thought, with the economy and real estate market the way it currently is that didn't exactly seem like the best business plan. But I wouldn't mind it. These needless demolitions of historic structures infuriate me, I wouldn't mind that at all.
Oh, the many lessons you can learn from owning real estate in Springfield. It can be a life-altering experience.
Quote from: sheclown on September 23, 2010, 05:54:45 PM
Oh, the many lessons you can learn from owning real estate in Springfield. It can be a life-altering experience.
Gee Willikers sheclown...........I did not realize you could be so sarcastic ::)
chris...........it was just a thought! I do know one and he handles something like 50 to 60 cases in a 90 day period! At something like $3,500 a case to start it would add up quickly if your interested in the money end! Just a thought.....maybe some other specialty appeals to you, I know there is a whole heap load out there!
Quote from: CS Foltz on September 23, 2010, 06:27:15 PM
Quote from: sheclown on September 23, 2010, 05:54:45 PM
Oh, the many lessons you can learn from owning real estate in Springfield. It can be a life-altering experience.
Gee Willikers sheclown...........I did not realize you could be so sarcastic ::)
She's not being sarcastic, CS.
Having a bull's eye painted on your butt makes you change your world view very quickly.
And I don't know if that is a bad thing. It just is....transforming.
Chris could tell you all about that, so could Stephen, & certainly, Joe.
It is what it is. That which does not kill you truly makes you ...wiser.
chris.......I know sheclown fairly well and my comment was tongue in cheek! I know all about the problems she has had with Code and SPAR Council..............their loss, Springfields gain! Because of her efforts and alot of others, they have made progress in saving the historical fabric of Springfield! This to me is the kind of effort that all communties need to do, when City Hall and their agencies do not take heed to the public outcry of wrong! If sheclown did not step up who else would...........Aunt Eullabell? You do realize that last sentence is tongue in cheek also right? Coffe on me, next time our paths cross at Three Layers......I will be there Tuesday night, Rick Mullaney is going to be there and I want to discuss his stance on Ethics........feel free to participate since I know dog gone good and well you have ethics!
Rick Mullaney is going to 3 Layers on Tuesday night?
Is he playing Trivia? :)
It has been almost a month and Jeff's house is still standing. And that is good news.
Jeff has fought like a man in love.
He has attended two city council meetings and one HPC meeting, each time making impassioned pleas to save his house. He has met with city officials and contacted code enforcement officials. He is on a first-name basis with the demolition contractor.
He has listed it on Craig's list as a free give-away several times, he has met with realtors and prospective "buyers." It is the subject of many facebook communications. It is highlighted on this forum.
So, here we are...
He has a well-respected contractor who will take the property, (Jeff will give it to him for free), if the city will waive the nuisance liens and the $250 per day rolling fines (which add up to 255,000).
The city has a demo contractor who will release the city from its contractual obligation if the city will not penalize the demo contractor.
We have Jeff who is willing to give up his house for no personal gain.
We have a preservation organization who has sat next to Jeff at public meetings, made phone calls, begged, pleaded, bargained on his behalf.
We have artists who have painted some love on his house.
We have neighbors who have been on High Bulldozer Alert.
And here we are.
It could be an interesting week.
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/IMG_2476-1-1-1.jpg)
Let's save this house....it's the right thing to do.
I thought Jack Webb called for a notice meeting....what happened...did he not follow through with it
What a powerful message the city will send to the community in support of preservation if this home is spared.
From his responses at the meetings, I suspect Dr. Gaffney is the hold up on the noticed meetings. Springfield is in his district and everyone refers back to him out of courtesy and then nothing happens. He seems to be against saving these houses for whatever reason. I would guess then that is why we end up not hearing about the noticed (meaning written minutes must be taken) meetings we are promised but rather hear and see about things being done behind the scenes. If I am right, one has to wonder why Dr. Gaffney does not want the meetings even when put into that proverbial corner in public.
this is one of the reasons why I'm meeting with the man who is running against Gaffney this week....we really need to get someone into that position who works with and not against the people in their district
^who is this man?
Interesting developments on Walnut Court.
It looks like the city is working toward saving Jeff's home.
(http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab165/sheclown/Jeffhishouse-1.jpg)
Sometimes...Jacksonville...you can be pretty awesome.
More soon.
Quote from: sheclown^who is this man?
He's running against Gaffney, and in my book, anyone who does, potentially has my vote
Quote from: iloveionia on September 26, 2010, 11:12:00 PM
What a powerful message the city will send to the community in support of preservation if this home is spared.
AMEN &
Boom laka-laka-laka, boom laka-laka-laka boom
I'm grateful and giddy.
Springfield could probably do alot better than Dr Johnny! If write in's were allowed....may I suggest "Mickey Mouse" or even "Goofey" either of which could do much better!
It is my understanding that with Bill Killingsworth working with Kim Scott and other notable offices, demolitions are to stop while homes are mothballed and preserved until the right owner comes along. Specifically with Jeff's house, I believe he will be able to be a part of the aforementioned. This coming from the mayor's office. ;-)
Fingers crossed, okay?
This little house on an unlikely street -- Walnut Court -- is blessed.
Thank you everyone involved,
Glorious Johnson, Jack Webb,
Bill Killingsworth,
HPC
The mayor's office --
Thank you all for watching over Springfield.
...and especially you Jeff... for protecting it only to give it away.
<now the real work begins>
That is fantastic!
It takes people who care to make things happen. Community involvement is proven to get things done!
Kudos to all those involved with city government who realize that destroying these homes is the wrong thing to do!
So what's new with this house?
PSOS is glad to say that this home has a new owner who is working to renovate her.
(http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g374/sheclown2/PSOS/423%20Walnut%20court.jpg) (http://s1098.photobucket.com/user/sheclown2/media/PSOS/423%20Walnut%20court.jpg.html)