The number of dilapidated buildings clinging to life around Auburn has raised concern for some citizens.
At the Feb. 1 meeting of the Auburn City Council, Councilwoman Sheila Eckman directed the discussion into the issue after the council voted to demolish a structure on Railroad Avenue earlier in the evening.
Eckman noted ten structures were demolished in 2010 and asked City Manager Charles M. Duggan if this would be the same goal for 2011.
"Our goal is to remove all dilapidated structures from the city," Duggan said. "We do make this a priority."
Many of the buildings in question, however, may not fall into the category of dilapidated, but are still an eyesore to the community.
"It has to be a danger to someone entering the building," Duggan said.
Also discussed was the topic of fences, specifically residential, which Eckman said needs to be dealt with if Auburn wants to continue to be a progressive city.
While Eckman said she has concerns regarding privacy and curb appeal of residential fences, safety is also an issue for children who may not understand the danger when coming into contact with electric fences--a problem in Eckman's ward.
"There is very little in our ordinances that say what kind of fence you can have," Eckman said.
Other items on the agenda included the appointment of three members to the board of zoning adjustment, $260,594 to be allocated for a crosswalk and a safe route to school sidewalk to be constructed on South College Street.
The council also recognized Duggan for 20 years of service to the community. Others recognized included Eric Moyers and Arndt Siepmann, five years; Kevin Kelly, 10 years; Steve Pugh, 25 years; and James Jennings, employee of the month.
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