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Demolition for unsightly property to move ahead in Fernie
By Erin Knutson
The City of Fernie recently moved forward with a remedial action request for an unsightly and potentially dangerous building and a structural engineering assessment to determine the safety of the dilapidated structure after bylaw services intervened on behalf of the city in an expired demolition mandate.
“It was recommended after an assessment by Building Official Erik Stout that the fire-damaged building, a declared nuisance, be removed,” said Bylaw Officer Tom Kramer.
He submitted a report to the city on the failure of the homeowner to meet the twelve-month timeline set out in a demolition permit to secure the fire-damaged property.
Kramer presented his findings to the mayor, staff and council and requested remedial action to bring the property into compliance at the October 10 meeting in council chambers.
A demotion permit was issued in February of 2023 to Frank Pilosio, who was present at the meeting, following a devastating fire at the homeowner’s property on January 8, which has expired (Demolition Permit #2023-021), calling for further action on behalf of bylaw services.
Piloso addressed the council and stated that more time would be an asset in his case.
“There is no insurance on the building, and I’m a one-man show – so far, the building has stood up quite well, and I’m there daily cleaning up the property, which is part of another order,” he said.
According to Kramer, Pilosio is communicating with the city and at best, Pilosio can facilitate the demolition within a month and a half; however, if expediting the process is essential given a new structural assessment, the city may have to step in with or without his consent to ensure the safety of the area and potentially absorb costs through taxpayer dollars.
After careful deliberation by the mayor and council, it was decided that Blue Rock Engineering complete a structural report and that the property be demolished and removed as soon as possible.
Pilosio has 45 days to comply with the order, when the city can move forward, if necessary, to complete the demolition.
“I’m not unsympathetic to the property owner. We have to move forward, particularly if there is an unsafe condition to ensure community safety and standards – this matter needs to be dealt with,” said Mayor Nic Milligan.
Lead image: A photo of the building at 1040 Colclough Avenue in August this year as seen in council’s agenda from the Oct. 10 meeting. City of Fernie photo
