Daily photo by Bayne Hughes The resident who complained of the view at 4305 and 4307 U.S. 31 S. called the structures an "eyesore."

Hiding in plain sight

Location: 4305 and 4307 U.S. 31 S.

Description: Knee-high grass on properties with two aging buildings, including a house and a former grocery store. Buildings need repairing and painting. Vines are growing on them. The mailboxes are falling down. The resident who complained called the buildings “eyesores.” Buildings are being used for storage, although they are not approved structures for storage under city ordinance.

Owner: Patricia “Patsy” Poole. Poole said she planned to demolish the two buildings but is now renting to someone who is using them for storage. She said she doesn’t have the money to bring them to city code. She said her husband usually mows the property, but has been sick. He plans to mow the property this fall.

Ordinance: Decatur’s weed, junk and litter ordinance requires property owners to keep grass no more than 12 inches tall and maintain any weeds, grass or non-ornamental plant growth growing on the property so as not to constitute a nuisance. It is unlawful to store or keep upon the premises of any residential or commercial property, any inoperable vehicle, discarded household furnishings, scrap or junk unless housed in an approved structure.

Responsible officials: The property is in Decatur City Councilman Gary Hammon’s District 3. A Community Development Department spokeswoman said one of their code inspectors turned in the properties for code violations. Poole said she has not received any notification of violations from the city.

Let us know if you’re tired of seeing a dilapidated building, litter, a drainage problem or an eyesore in your neighborhood. Contact Community Development’s weed, junk and litter hot line at 341-4963. You can also contact the Daily newsroom at 340-2433 or news@decaturdaily.com.

Bayne Hughes

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