09 - Acceptance of the Donation of Real Property located at City Block 120 Lot 6 - 301 Bonham Street

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Item No. 9 TO: City Council Gene Anderson, Interim City Manager FROM: Stephanie H. Harris, City Attorney SUBJECT: ACCEPTANCE OF A DONATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 301 BONHAM ST. DATE: February 3, 2020 BACKGROUND: Jack and Laura Hoskins are owners of a vacant lot located at 301 Bonham St. in the downtown area of Paris. In January of 2012, the structure at that location collapsed into the street, and the city expended $49,396.80 to complete the demolition and remove debris. The city filed a dangerous structure abatement lien in that amount plus 10% interest per annum. Mr. and Mrs. Hoskins have not been able to pay this lien, and have offered to donate the lot to the city in exchange for the city's releasing the demolition lien. The location of this vacant lot is very desirable for a public parking lot in the downtown area, particularly in light of the city's downtown 10 year revitalization plan. STATUS OF ISSUE: All taxes are current on this property, and there are no other liens thereon. City staff agrees that it is in the best interest of city residents and downtown businesses to acquire the property and forgive the demolition lien, which is likely to go uncollected at least for many years. BUDGET: The city would waive the principle and interest on the demolition lien, which as noted is unlikely to be collected upon for the foreseeable future, and there may be some costs associated preparing the lot to be a public parking lot. RECOMMENDATION: Approve a resolution accepting the donation by General Warranty Deed of the property located at 301 Bonham St., and releasing the demolition lien associated with said property.