Brewster's vacant lot code violations subject of lawsuit

By BECKY THOMAS

Staff Reporter

As the city of Cheney continues to seek park mitigation from the owners of Brewster Hall, the vacant lot next door is the subject of a new lawsuit to be filed by the city of Cheney.

The lot, which was originally planned to house a second building similar to Brewster Hall, violated city nuisance codes for a lack of fencing along the alley behind the property. While original owner Rob Brewster sold the adjacent building at the corner of Second and F streets, the vacant lot is still his property.

Community development director Brian Jennings said a “notice to abate” was sent to Brewster in early 2009, and while city staff members worked with agents representing Brewster, they were unable to work out an agreement to replace the fencing, which was considered a safety hazard since the lot drops off several feet below the alleyway.

“Recently, the fencing has fallen down all together,” Jenning said. A reminder of the infraction was sent in February, he said, but Brewster has still not responded, and the Cheney City Council approved a lawsuit June 22. Jennings said another complaint was set to be issued regarding the weeds growing in the lot.

“It's just a matter of an absent property owner not paying attention,” Jennings said.

City administrator Arlene Fisher said the aim of the lawsuit was to allow the city to remove the violation.

Becky Thomas can be reached at [email protected].