Present: Chairman Niedbalski, Alderpersons Sevenich, Walther, Nealis, Phillips

Excused: Ald. Phillips
Also
Present: Mayor Wescott, Attorney Molepske, Clerk Zdroik, Alderpersons Pazdernik,
Perlak, Kedrowski, Rackow, Aldinger; Inspectors Curless, Benzmiller, Susan
Kampmeier (Journal), Gene Kemmeter (Portage County Gazette), Amanda
Julian (WIZD)

1. Approval of bartender's license.

Ald. Nealis moved, Ald. Walther seconded, to approve the 2-year bartender's license, manager's license and taxicab driver's license.

Ayes, all, nays, none. Motion carried.

2. Declaring 618 Washington Avenue as a public nuisance.

City Attorney Molepske indicated that a unique situation at 618 Washington Avenue is present. The property is owned by a middle aged woman who is a bit disabled. The Humane Society received complaints from neighboring property owners concerning the accumulation of feline feces and urine and emission of an extremely repugnant odor from the premises. A total of thirty-seven felines were removed from the interior premises by the Humane Society. Three or four cats are living in the wall and are impossible to catch. The City Attorney is asking for authority to commence an action for the abatement of such public nuisance at 618 Washington Avenue.

Laurie Berger, Portage County Humane Officer, said this is the second time the Humane Society was called to check this property. She was at the same place two years ago and removed six cats at that time. During a recent inspection of the property, Ms. Berger found feces all over the house and in some areas, feces were at least a foot deep. She pointed out that the City not allow the property owner to have pets because the same situation will happen again.

Director Gardner said there might be some Community Development Authority funds available to assist the property owner in the clean-up, if she is willing to let the City help her. After the cleanup, it could be determined if the building can be restored.

James Riggenbach, Shared Services Supervisor, Portage County Human Services Department, stated the property was bought 35 years ago. The property owner does not want to lose the house. Mr. Riggenbach said the lady had a very tough life. She is angry, depressed, and fearful. She is not mistreating the animals. In her mind, she is keeping the animals safe.

City Attorney Molepske said the lady may be in violation of one of our housing codes. Nothing has been pursued by the County under the health codes and the City does not have jurisdiction. The Attorney is asking the Council to authorize the City to go in and clean the residence.

Ald. Sevenich moved, Ald. Walther seconded, to adopt the resolution authorizing the City Attorney to commence action for the abatement of such public nuisance at 618 Washington Avenue.

Ayes, all, nays, none. Motion carried.

3. Adjournment - 6:50 P. M.

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