THUNDER BAY – The City of Thunder Bay is intervening to clean up a fire-damaged property on Simpson Street, saying it presents a hazard to the public and is preventing demolition of adjoining buildings also damaged in the 2019 blaze.
The city estimates clean-up on the abandoned property, which was without insurance at the time of the fire, will cost between $10,000 and $20,000 – but say the cost will be recouped by adding them to the next owner’s tax bill.
The damaged building has left a portion of the sidewalk in front of 627 Simpson St. closed, and a report presented to city council on Monday said the building presented a danger to the public.
“The property represents a continuing hazard to the public (from collapse) requiring the continued sidewalk closure,” it read. “Additionally, such an abandoned structure may be subject to misuse, including unwanted entry, which may continue to put persons and additional properties at risk.”
Two adjoining properties have not been able to go ahead with demolition since they share internal walls with the abandoned property. The report prepared by city staff explained joint agreements between all property owners are required for demolition to proceed.
By taking responsibility for the abandonned property's share of the cost, the city will ensure the work is completed within months, staff said.
Councillors expressed hope the action would allow for future development on the site.
