The Village of Forestburg council voiced concern about an unsightly premises located on Main Street that has apparently changed little in years. The discussion was held at the May 21 regular meeting of council.

During the committee of the whole (COW) section of the agenda, Coun. Elaine Fossen stated she wanted to talk about an unsightly premises located on Main Street, and which apparently had been the site of a fire several years ago. She referred to the lot’s appearance as “terrible.”

Fossen stated she recently drove by the parcel and saw the remnants of a building, lumber and debris piles, and part of an open floor that appeared to be a hazard. Fossen stated she wants to keep Forestburg’s community standards up to par.

Fossen stated that the property in question has looked like this for years, must be cleared as soon as possible, and that she wouldn’t agree with the situation continuing as it is.

Mayor Wayne Giroux observed that the property in question is completely fenced off but acknowledged that it looks like half the floor area is open.

During discussion, councillors stated that the property is indeed fenced, but people can climb fences.

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Dwight Dibben stated that the owner of that property is working on it, although it may be taking some time. Dibben notified councillors he’s met in person with the owner and the owner confirmed he is working on the property.

The CAO also clarified that the parcel in question is comparable to a property under renovation, and while that work is sometimes unappealing, there is nothing the village can do about it. Dibben also stated all debris is contained to the property in question and the property is fenced off.

As the issue was discussed further, Dibben observed a demolition permit had been issued for that property but the permit was never used.

The CAO stated that if councillors wished, staff could contact the property owner for an update on the project; Dibben added the only real recourse the village has would be to seek a court order to force demolition, which would involve time and legal fees.

Fossen responded she wasn’t asking for a court order but stated the property has been in the unsightly condition for a very long time and nothing appears to change.

Mayor Giroux suggested sending the property owner a letter from the Village of Forestburg asking for a timeline resulting in the property’s cleanup. Giroux added if there’s no response to that letter, perhaps legal action could be considered.

Councillors noted that it appears a shed or structure has been added to the property, apparently for storage. It was also noted that apparently the property owner has tried to salvage materials from the building’s remnants.

Councillors agreed village staff should contact the property owner and pass along council’s concerns about the lot’s appearance.