NEGAUNEE, Mich. (WZMQ) – On February 28, the Marquette County Circuit Court entered a $222,369.57 judgment in favor of the city of Negaunee against the former owner of the Kirkwood building.
In the spring of 2019, the Kirkwood Block building, formerly located at 324 Iron Street in downtown Negaunee, suffered a roof collapse that caused the third-level floor to crash through to its lower levels. The structure was deemed unsafe, posing a safety and property risk to residents, visitors and other nearby downtown buildings. Although the city made multiple requests for the owner to address the hazard, no action was taken. This resulted in an emergency order by the city under the Property Maintenance Code to demolish the building.
After several delays were made in the case, mostly due to Covid-19, the owner was found personally liable for both demolition expenses and costs associated with the city’s legal action.
“Through this process, the city has been trying to recoup its cost in tearing down this building,” says Negaunee City Manager, Nate Heffron. “It was successful in court a few weeks ago in getting that judgement against the individual.” After the long matter, city officials want to make sure that property owners in the area are taking good care of their buildings, not just for themselves, but for the safety of others.
“As a property owner, if you are going to pose a public health and welfare risk to the people of our community, we’re going to be serious on the matter, making sure you’re taking care of your building.” says Heffron.
Any concerns regarding building safety can be directed towards Nate Heffron at (906) 475-7700 ext. 11.
