SAN ANTONIO -- Alana Campbell is relieved the city is taking action after years of complaints about a house next door she considered a health and safety risk to children. The owner of the home was a hoarder.
"As the years went by, the odor got stronger and stronger," insisted Campbell.
The retired physical education teacher said neighbors have complained about rodents, raccoons, wasps, and foul odors from animals and trash kept inside the home.
Campbell also said the homeowner moved out leaving a mess behind. She had pictures of large commercial dumpsters she said were used to remove clutter and more.
"Animal urine and feces (were in the home)," Campbell said.
According to a spokesperson for the city, the north side home was added to a list of dangerous structures, because of several environmental and health hazards.
Ximena Copa-Wiggins said code enforcement inspectors did visit the home several times and cited the owner for violations. She told us the owner is considered a hoarder.
The city spokesperson also stated the homeowner's property was slated for review by the Building Standards Board tomorrow.
However, the house has been removed from the agenda. Copa-Wiggins said the homeowner made necessary repairs to meet city codes.
Two other homes are still up for review Thursday.
Inspectors are expected to request demolition for one of the properties, which is on the south side.
Campbell isn't sure why it took so long for the city to deal with the property owner. Under city guidelines, it normally takes around six months to decide if a property owner can bring a building up to code or if it should be demolished.
Copa-Wiggins told us the city's goal is bring properties into compliance, not to tear them down.
The Building Standards Board meets tomorrow a 9 a.m. in the Cliff Morton Development and Business Services Center Board Room at 1901 South Alamo Street.
If you have a concern about a building or vacant home in your neighborhood, dial 311 for code compliance to investigate.
If you know someone who is considered a hoarder, the Hard Hat Assistance Team tries to help with clean up.
Ximena Copa-Wiggins
