The Independence City Commission gives the go-ahead for the demolition of 21 houses in the city that have been deemed unsafe.

 

Commissioners voted unanimously at last night's meeting to demolish 21 houses in Independence that have been deemed dangerous and unsafe. The city began work on the issue more than a year ago. Commissioner Dean Hayse thanked city staff for their work on the project and says planning ahead is what made it possible.

 

Commissioners awarded the demolition contract to G & G Dozer of Caney for a total of just over $119,000. G & G says the entire project will be complete in 30 days. Hayse says the city may have to find more money in the budget if it wants to continue the effort.

 

Hayes added that the city will need to consider this if more is to be done about the issue of unsafe structures in the city.

 

In other business, commissioners also approved a request from Friends of Riverside Park and Zoo to paint a mural on the stadium wall, depicting the Logan fountain that stands in front of the shelter house. FORPAZ will cover the costs of the painting and upkeep of the mural, which will be commissioned in memory of Mark Johnson.

 

The next meeting of the Independence City Commission will be on March 27.