Minnesota church to be declared unsafe

Nov 21, 2009

The Community Development Committee has asked the Willmar City Council to declare the Mahanaim Assamblea de Dios Church unsafe. The owners of the 88-year-old building failed to make corrective repairs by the October 23 deadline set by the fire marshal. A large gathering had also taken place at the church, although it was not safe to be used or occupied as it stands. Once a building is declared unsafe, removal proceedings can begin, and the Public Works Department can secure the surrounding streets and sidewalks to protect the public from falling masonry.

In the case of the church, an inoperable heating system and partially operable sanitary facilities are only part of the problem. Large amounts of combustible debris, an improperly vented water heater and missing exit and emergency lights create a serious safety issue. Serious repairs are also needed on the exterior brick veneer, as fallen bricks have been found on nearby streets and sidewalks; it is only a matter of time before someone is injured by falling bricks. Broken and missing windows also let water into the structure.

A Realtor has been attempting to sell the church property for two years, but has received no written offers. In addition to the problems listed above, the church building is contaminated with mold, lead paint and asbestos. Regardless of what happens to the building, environmental remediation will have to take place.

For the full story, go to West Central Tribune.

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