June 04, 2026
I appreciate the opportunity to respond to the letter written in opposition (to question is to oppose?) to the county (commissioners) acquiring (spending over a quarter million of our tax dollars) the building at 101 Grand. (Frederick’s)
Regarding the building (Frederick’s) in question, I want to start by discussing the abhorrent living conditions. I don’t care what someone’s status or net worth is; this building was not fit to be lived in by anyone. The people (not residents, just nondescript “people”) in this building were victims of a broken system that was not on their side and without the proper safeguards needed to ensure appropriate living conditions. (So forcing them out in only 30 days, middle of winter, middle of school year was better?) This building was infested with cockroaches and bed bugs. (When? proof, read it on FB?) That should not be accepted under any circumstances; no matter who you are. (City council did not pursue health issues?)
Another reason for this choice was the number of EMS calls at this location. Though it was not given as a hard number, it was speculated that roughly 2/3 of all the ambulance and police calls were sent straight to this building. (Gosh, why “speculate”, just have the Sheriff input the address to our million dollar law enforcement computer and get a list/breakdown of how many calls/dispatch for that building, for a certain period of time. ‘Cuz it wasn’t in the newspaper.) We were then putting officers and EMTs into a situation of potentially spreading bed bugs and cockroaches, not only to their own households and families, but also to the community as well. (OMG, better not be an EMT or deputy ‘cause you might get cooties) We had countless people (agenda item?) who came to us and others with their concerns about this building. (were they informed it was within the CITY limits and to address the CITY council? Oh dear, the city council DID file a lawsuit against the Frederick’s owner and it was settled.)
With the decision to buy the building, we were forced (cause now “we” own it and want to sell it) to evict the residents. (“were victims of a broken system that was not on their side” ) With the conditions that they were living in, this could actually be taken as a positive because it allowed (forced) them to find a place that wasn’t degrading to them as human beings. (Aaaand, car seats recline) Our hearts (not our wallets) went out to the people who were living there, as they had (were forced) to seek other housing options. (Gosh, why weren’t county resources used to aid them BEFORE they were kicked out?) Though it was difficult, there have already been several individuals who have since voiced that they are in a better place now (park bench has shade) and grateful that they had to make that move. Some people were only living there because they saw (had) no other way that things happen properly (‘Cuz they were poor and disabled) and that it does not fall back into a building that is degrading to human life is not an easy task. (What! Being a landlord is tough?) Though we have looked at options from ITD and training for firefighters, there have been many more options discussed, as well. I hope that people see the reason these ideas have been brought up is for the fact that we are trying to do the right thing and not leave anything out as a possibility to better our community.
Lastly, I would like to mention that even though a few people might be unhappy with the decision to (spend over a quarter million TAX dollars) buy this building, (Frederick’s) I can’t express the number of people who have personally thanked us for stepping in and making that purchase. (Butt, didn’t step in to help those residing there) We have had people express that they feel more comfortable being out in their own town. (Cuz’ the “view” is better) We have been thanked by our EMTs and officers because they don’t have to enter a building that should’ve had drastic improvements years ago. (because NO ONE lives there…butt the cleanup (weeds, mattresses, broken doors, windows….)
Ultimately, we invite people to educate themselves with more than hearsay (“This building was infested with cockroaches and bed bugs.”) and come to one of our meetings. (When was it on the agenda? Public notice? Newspaper article? Press Release?) We would rather people not get riled up over one opinion, but come to us and instead, ask the questions. (Public Comment on the agenda?) If someone has an idea or some sort of constructive criticism, we would love to hear.