Two Ironwood buildings saved from wrecking ball

IRONWOOD - Two structures that faced demolition in the city of Ironwood may be saved.

The Ironwood City Commission on Monday granted Garron Stenstrom another 35-day extension to work on structures at 125 and 129 May St.

"He's done a lot more than I thought he could do," city building inspector Dennis Hewitt said of Stenstrom's effort to rehabilitate the two buildings that were previously condemned as eyesores by the commission.

Stenstrom has reinforced support beams for the small houses and made general improvements, with the buildings no longer being lopsided, but in dire need of new siding and paint.

He had already received a 60-day extension to get them up to code.

"You're on a short leash," commissioner Rick Semo warned.

City staff members will report on the status of the rehabilitation of the houses to the commission.

In other business Monday, the commission held a public hearing on 717 E. Ayer St., a parcel that neighbors said is being used as an industrial site.

Blight enforcement officer Jason Alonen said four unlicensed vehicles and six unlicensed trailers are being stored on the property.

Three letters were sent to the property owner seeking blight removal action and Alonen said he was finally able to speak to the owner in person on Monday.

The vehicles will be impounded by the city if not removed in two weeks.

Although the neighborhood is zoned residential, "It doesn't look very residential right now," said Bill Erickson, of 713 E. Ayer St.

He said construction material and tools are often stored at the parcel. He called it a "construction depot. The contents of the yard vary from week to week, but the area is constantly crowded with equipment and supplies."

He said the "eyesore" is having an adverse effect on property values in the neighborhood and one neighbor who is trying to sell her house has had to reduce the asking price.­­