The Duncan Banner

Local News

November 18, 2009

Dilapidated structures removed from neighborhoods

Kevin Kerr

DUNCAN — Some neighborhoods in Duncan have recently been given a bit of a facelift as several dilapidated structures have been removed and replaced by a cleared lot.

In September, the City Council gave the go-ahead to proceed with the demolishing of the eight structures within the city limits, and in October, the buildings were leveled.

“Normally this is a week-long process,” Dana Schoening, Community Development Director said, “but with the extended periods of rain we got, it took close to three weeks to finish the project.

“There should be nothing left now but a pile of dirt and a cleared lot.”

Schoening said normally there will be two of these types of projects throughout the year, and expects to begin on another similar undertaking in late December or early January.

The city will usually consider around 20 structures that they deem dilapidated and need to be demolished. However, not all of those structures will usually be demolished.

“If we look at twenty structures, only ten or twelve will actually be demolished by the city,” Schoening said.

He said that four or five of the structures will normally be taken care of by the owner. , and another three or four structures, the owners will actually have plans for the building.

“We like it when they do it themselves,” Schoening said. “It’s at their expense, as it should be, and doesn’t cost the city.”

Schoening said that with these structures gone, neighborhoods will usually see an improvement, and neighbors will sometimes do some cleaning of their own to their own properties. He said taking these structures out will improve the value of the neighborhoods as well.

“People will put on new siding, and do some needed landscaping,” Schoening said. “It will be a benefit for the people and their property value.”

Schoening said that this is also a good thing for the city as it keeps it looking clean, something that he said Duncan does a lot more of than some other cities.

“We try to get rid of those blighting influences around town,” Schoening said. “We’re kind of aggressive in that area, in keeping the city looking clean.”

Text Only
Local News
  • Thieves hit two businesses; stolen truck is discovered

    February 7, 2012

  • Heartbeat dancers seniors And the beat goes on ...

    For 27 years, Heartbeat Dance studio has been providing young girls the opportunity to follow their dance aspirations — whatever they may be — thanks to owner Stephanie Gregston.

    February 6, 2012 2 Photos

  • DPSF grants spur arts, science interest DPSF grants spur arts, science interest

    While much of the focus at the Duncan Public School Foundation’s Hall of Fame Banquet centers around those being inducted into the hall, the annual gathering is also an opportunity for the DPSF to display one of its key functions.

    February 6, 2012 1 Photo

  • Tackling 'good ol' boy' system

    As a conservative Republican and Assistant Majority Whip in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Corey Holland makes no excuses for remaining true to the values that guide his philosophy and votes.

    February 6, 2012

  • Winter Classic Pig Show Winter Classic Pig Show off to good start

    There was a buzz circulating through the Stephens County Fair & Expo Livestock Pavilion over the weekend, when youth from across the state showed off their swine at the inaugural Winter Classic Pig Show.

    February 6, 2012 2 Photos

  • Rain, high temperatures recorded for Friday

    Rain on Friday helped to make the beginning of February wetter than the beginning of January.

    February 6, 2012

  • Spotlight shines at DPSF Banquet

    For the Duncan Public Schools Foundation and the Duncan School District, Thursday was a night of recognition.

    February 5, 2012

  • How high will it go?

    For a week now, motorists have been paying a bit more when they stick the nozzle into their gas tank. That could be the norm over the next few months, when prices at the pump are expected to continue to increase.

    February 5, 2012

  • Sykes to lead Senate Judiciary Committee hearings

    State Sen. Anthony Sykes said Oklahomans will be hearing a lot of talk this year about bond issues and tax credits during the legislative session which opens Monday.

    February 5, 2012

  • Prep skippers Super Bowl XLVI: Bring it on!

    It’s finally arrived, the biggest game of the pro football season, the Super Bowl. With the 46th edition of the NFL showcase comes a rematch from the 2007 game between the AFC Champion New England Patriots and the NFC representative New York Giants.

    February 5, 2012 1 Photo