Old high school battle continues, judge demands plan

Ritzville Associated Limited Partnership, managed by Jim Delegans, must have a plan for the demolition or reconstruction of the old high school by the end of business today, Thursday, May 23.

If not, Delegans must appear in court on Friday for a contempt hearing.

If he submits a plan by the end of today, he must appear in court on Tuesday, May 28, at 1 p.m. for a hearing and trial that will likely determine the fate of the old high school.

Two weeks ago, it was discovered that the exterior wall along the Division Street side of the building has bowed out, away from the rest of the structure.

The new development in the aging, deteriorating building forced the city to close a portion of Division Street.

Since then, the city has hired a structural engineer and a Spokane attorney. Last week the city council voted unanimously to declare a state of emergency and file a lawsuit to compel Delegans to immediately repair or demolish the building.

David Barnett wrote in a legal document that the building is in serious shape.

“In my opinion, it would not take an extreme event to cause substantial damage. For example, the vibrations from a passing truck could dislodge bricks, or worse. Day-to-day operations are very likely to cause substantial problems for this city and its citizens and visitors.

“I would not recommend any effort to stabilize the western walls. I would recommend its removal.

“On my inspection visit today,” he said, “I was impressed by the fact that this is the worst building I have ever been inside.

“I mean ‘worst’ in terms of decay, dilapidation, disrepair, danger and instability. I would not care to ever go back inside this building.”

Tuesday, Delegans did not appear for the show cause hearing in Adams County Superior Court. Instead he participated telephonically. He was not represented by a lawyer during the proceeding, but said he would have counsel during future court sessions.

He also agreed with the city’s experts, regarding the condition of the building and that something needs to be done quickly to ensure the safety of citizens.

However, he didn’t clearly answer the judge when asked if he or the limited partnership had the necessary funds needed to secure or demolition the building.

Based on what happens during the next few days, the judge could decide to order that the city has permission to take what ever action it needs to ensure that the public is safe and that the building does not cause any injuries or damage to private property.

The judge also said he may allow the city to place a lien against the property to cover the cost of any demolition, as well as the cost of the attorney and structural engineer.

Ultimately the city may have to seek foreclosure proceedings in order to recoup its expenses.