Nov 11, 2014 3 min read

In the classic science fiction movie, “Invasion of the Body Snatchers,” actor Kevin McCarthy runs down a California highway in the film’s final scene, shouting “You’re next! You’re next!” as a warning to his fellow human beings who are in danger of being taken over by aliens. I was reminded of this scene last Thursday night when Washington City Council, in a 3-2 decision, voted to condemn and schedule for demolition a building located at 83 N. Main St.

The action was taken under the guise of eliminating blight in the downtown area by razing dilapidated and decaying properties, which is a good thing. The only problem is the building in question doesn’t come close to meeting the criteria of other properties also slated for demolition.

The building is in use, the utilities are on, it has functioning bathrooms, hardwood floors, tract lighting and ceiling fans, and is secured with an alarm system. The second floor of the building is vacant, but poses no immediate threat to public safety.

The building had several uses in recent years, such as serving as the local headquarters for President Obama’s election campaign in 2008. At a public hearing Thursday night, the city’s own agents had a difficult task of presenting a convincing argument the building should be demolished.

Given all of these facts, we’re left with the chilling reality the government has, in essence, seized the property of a private citizen with the intention of destroying it based on the most specious criteria.

The building in question is owned by attorney Charles Kurowski, a somewhat polarizing figure in the community and perennial political candidate who has been embroiled with numerous lawsuits against the city and its elected officials, and is currently in litigation with Mayor Brenda Davis. Kurowski and his attorney filed a federal lawsuit against the city in this matter, as well.

There is contentious debate on both sides as to whether work was performed in the building without obtaining the proper permitting, with apparently no evidence to prove either side right. However, if we razed every building that was remodeled without a building permit, our town would look like Death Valley.

It is important to note all of the other properties approved for demolition are clearly dilapidated and need to be removed, and none of the owners or their representatives – one lives in Russia – were present to object, and these appear to have been abandoned long ago.

The larger question here is, when this is allowed to happen to one citizen, regardless of their standing in the community, when does it stop?

If you become an enemy of the state, “You’re next! You’re next!”

Joe Manning

Washington

Manning is a member of Washington City Council.