Cannelton board orders potential demolition, fines for 119 Washington Street

On December 11 the Cannelton Board of Public Works convened a public hearing to address longstanding code violations at 119 Washington Street. Property owner Ramona Leitner attended with legal counsel, and the city was represented by its attorney. After hearing testimony and reviewing documentation, the board determined the structure remains out of compliance with local ordinances.

The board has been assessing daily fines of seventy five dollars for ongoing violations, and following the hearing members authorized a formal demolition order to be pursued if the property is not brought into compliance. Board action was framed by officials as a response to repeated code breaches and mounting public safety concerns associated with the condition of the structure.

The hearing followed standard municipal procedure. Both sides had legal representation, the board examined the timeline of violations and prior notices, and members deliberated on enforcement options that included continued fines, mandated remediation and demolition. With the formal demolition order now in motion, the property owner retains remedies available under city code, including the ability to appeal administrative decisions, to pay assessed fines and to complete corrective work to avoid demolition.

For residents of Perry County the immediate consequences are practical and local. Continued noncompliance will allow the city to proceed toward removal of a hazardous structure that neighbors have reported as a blight and a safety risk. Daily fines will continue to accrue until the violations are resolved, potentially increasing the financial burden on the owner or affecting the cost of abatement borne by the municipality. The board emphasized enforcement as a measure to protect public welfare and neighborhood stability.

The case at 119 Washington Street underscores the challenges small cities face when balancing property rights with community safety. Local residents preparing for next steps can expect formal notices from the board if deadlines are not met, and the administration will follow the timelines and appeal processes set out in city code as the situation develops.