BY EMIL WHITIS
Daily Press Staff Writer
A condemnation of the structure at 911 W. Dallas Ave. was upheld during a discussion Tuesday night at Septmember’s first meeting of the Artesia City Council.
The owner of the structure, Dr. Jacinto Lopez, a retired doctor from California, plead with the council to rescind the condemnation. He said he has many friends in Artesia and planned to live in the structure.
“A long time ago I decided I wanted to spend the rest of my life in Artesia,” said Lopez. “I’m 83 years old … I like (the town) … so I invested in a building last year and spent a lot of money to make it the best possible.”
Lopez provided documentation through photos and work receipts of the time and money he has invested in the property.
City inspector Cheryl Hinkle acknowledged Lopez had done some work to the property, but had not applied for permits from the city for electrical work which was done. She also pointed out the property was still not up to Artesia Municipal Code standards.
Hinkle said she sent Lopez a letter in Feburary of 2008 outlining the steps he needed to take to bring the building up to code. … For the rest of the story, subscribe in print and on the web.
