Darrell Cole has six months to make his home livable, or the house at 311 S. Chestnut St. will be demolished.
Iola City Council members voted, 7-1, for the deadline extension after a lengthy discussion Monday about whether the home should be condemned immediately.
Code Enforcement Officer Gregg Hutton cited several issues with the home, including a rotted roof that leaks, causing extensive damage to the interior; deteriorated stucco siding that has left bare studs and exposed insulation; and two poorly constructed back porches made of used lumber that are unsafe to walk on.
One upstairs bathroom is in such poor shape that the toilet leans on the water-damaged floor, Hutton noted, although he’s yet to do a full inspection of the interior. Most of the window seals and door frames are rotted as well.
“In my opinion, the house is not livable,” Hutton said. “The roof has leaked so bad the floor inside is shot. There’s too much wrong with this house.”
Cole, who told the council he has 30 years of construction experience, said he has been limited in what he can do for now because of recent health issues. He’s had open-heart surgery, as well as bypass surgery on both legs in the past 2 1/2 years.
He also has been reluctant to put any money into needed repairs in recent months because he knew of the upcoming condemnation hearing.
“There’s no point in pouring money into this if you’re just gonna tear it down,” he said.
Cole said he planned to do repairs and upgrades himself as he recovers from the surgeries. He anticipated total repair costs at about $6,500.
“I don’t know how realistic you’re being with your expectations of cost,” Councilman Aaron Franklin said. “I hope you understand the job you have in front of you.”
THE COUNCIL’S discussion included where Cole would move if forced from the home; whether allowing him to stay there was doing more harm than good; and whether the home is considered a public safety hazard.
“With a leaky roof, mold is definitely an issue,” Councilman Bob Shaughnessy noted.
“My concern is you have so many health issues, and you’re living in this unhealthy environment,” Councilwoman Nancy Ford said. “I’d hope there are people out there to find avenues to find a place that’s better for you.”
She encouraged Cole to apply for housing with the Iola Housing Authority, or to check with local charitable groups such as Humanity House.
Cole said he’s contacted some groups, to no avail.
“And I have reservations about living in townhouses,” he added.
Franklin said he had doubts Cole could meet the six-month deadline to make the home livable, particularly with winter approaching.
“But what’s the harm in allowing it,” Franklin continued. “This give him opportunities to seek out help.”
“We’re between a rock and a hard place,” Ford added. “I don’t think (staying there) is doing any benefit for him, but I don’t want to see somebody kicked out of the only place they have.”
Franklin’s motion — giving Cole six months to have “significant improvements” or relocate — passed by a 7-1 vote, Jon Wells opposed.
The Council directed Hutton to work with Cole to prioritize repairs that must be made by the end of the six-month extension.
