DETROIT – I received so many calls and emails recently from concerned parents and even a few school leaders at Nolan Elementary-Middle School. I understand why they are mad as hell!
The school year is getting underway, and the big, scary danger is still sitting across the street. It’s a huge abandoned school and church—the old St. Rita’s near 7 Mile and I-75. It is a mess. The building is exposed and filled with junk, and at least one homeless person, who I learned, calls this space home. We asked if we could help him, but all he wanted was to know he could stay here.
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It’s located just feet from the well-maintained Nolan Elementary-Middle School.
This building was likely once a jewel, but now it’s an eyesore. I captured several images inside and out and it’s sad to see what it has become. The building is privately owned which makes it tricky for the city. I got in touch with the mayor’s team Thursday, Aug. 29, and like always -- they jumped right into action. They know the building has been a problem and know it’s hard to keep it secure from scrappers and others however, they will have workers out here within 24 hours cleaning things up and erecting a barrier. This is the statement I received:
“The privately-owned parcel on Cameron is not in compliance with city ordinances. The owner has received seven blight tickets from BSEED this year alone and will be issued another round of tickets today. We’re as concerned as everyone else about the condition of this property and will be placing a barrier around it within the next 24 hours. The City of Detroit Law Department will also be filing a complaint in court urging the owner to come into compliance or face a lawsuit.”
Corporation Counsel City of Detroit
I applaud the city for moving so quickly and I’d also like to call out the owner of this building or the owners of any blighted building in our city. Do better! If you can’t afford to secure your building - call the city. I know the city would rather work with owners than take them to court. Our city deserves better and I know for sure our kids deserve better!