Sheldon, Iowa — The Inspector’s Report is back on the inspection done late last week on the H.C.Lane Building, the downtown Sheldon landmark that has stood at the corner of 9th Street and 4th Avenue for more than 100 years.
Eric Neddermeyer is a State Building Code Inspector with the Iowa Department of Public Safety, State Fire Marshal’s Office Building Codes Division, and his report sheds a light on some serious issues with the building.
According to the report, the building issues with the eastern two-thirds of the structure include a missing load bearing column by the center/desk area of the building which is compromising the building’s structural integrity. The report goes on to say that the rear southwest corner brick wall has been forced in 6 to 8 inches from water and freezing damage at or below grade level causing a serious compromise of the building’s structural integrity. This is the issue that prompted Neddermeyer to suggest the city should block off the eastern portion of the alley. The report says a Structural Engineer is required for a full assessment.
The report goes on to list the Fire Code Issues. It says electrical fixtures and wiring have water damage and breakers are tripping, and need to be repaired or replaced. The report says there are no emergency lights, exit light or portable fire extinguishers in the eastern two -thirds of the structure, which are identified as 324-326 9th Street.
As for the western portion of the building, 320 9th Street, the report noted that there were no building structure issues to report. The report did list some Fire Code issues, however. The report notes that there are no emergency lights, exit light or portable fire extinguishers in the tenant space. The report says the south furnace is required to have all covers in place on the lower level. It says the lower level has exposed wiring that needs to be covered or repaired, and the lower level exit door and stairs need to be repaired.
At this Wednesday’s Sheldon City Council Meeting City Manager Sam Kooiker will seek the council’s approval for the closing of the eastern part of the alley behind the building, and approval to commence the dangerous building process based on the State’s reports and Sheldon City Code. He says the next steps would include notices to the property owner and posting notices on the building. Kooiker says the City’s goal is to require the owner to take the steps necessary to stabilize and repair the building.
Here are a few photos from the Inspector’s Report……
