Trying to Get 534 13th St. Lived In

The house next door to me, 534 13th St. NE, has been vacant since we moved in 4 1/2 years ago. I'm pretty sure it was vacant for years before that.

I finally reached the city inspector for Ward 6, Mr. James Gray (645-8257). He mentioned that he was here a year ago looking at the same house. I let him know that the two back doors where not secure and that there was trash in the back. I was also worried about the gutters on the house because they are falling off.

He said the Board of Condemnation deals with that sort of thing. He said that both the Board of Condemnation and he would be here next week to inspect and clean up the property. They will try to contact the owner, and the owner will be fined for any violations.

Has anyone had any experience with abandoned properties? I can't believe the city would allow these houses (that have owners) to just sit here for years.

I would like to see this house renovated and lived in. If anyone has any tips on how to get this done, I would appreciate it. You can call me at 544-2806 or e-mail me at tcioffi4@smart.net. Thanks! §