After discussing at length the positive and negative points surrounding

a sub-standard dwelling at 6577 Clayborn Avenue, Mayor Ralph Moore urged

the Union City Council to give the owner, Helen Bridges another 30 days to

submit a clear set of plans regarding the property's renovation.

Bridges came forward during the council's Monday night meeting to plead

with the city as to her plans to make over a dilapidated home. She met with

many heartfelt arguments to [email protected] contrary. The

council tried to persuade Bridges that it would be more financially feasible

to demolish the house and start

from scratch.

Bridges argued that if the house were torn down there would be a huge empty

lot and it would encourage loitering. She attempted to present an unauthorized

building permit in place of her original permit which expired last year.

"If the city gives me another permit, I have the lumber and relatives

to help me. I just need more time." Bridges said.

The mayor estimated the cost of fixing the home and bringing it up to code

at approximately $52,000.

Betty Milam, a neighbor to Bridge's property for nearly 35 years spoke

in favor of the house's renovation.

"We are trying to beautify our neighborhood so our grandchildren will

have a nice place to grow up."

After closing the public hearing, Councilman Barbara Bohannon motioned to

have the house condemned.

"I truly admire your dreams," Bohannon told Bridges, but felt

that it would behoove the board to condemn the property.

The motion was seconded by Councilman Shirley Jackson and passed without

the consent of the mayor. The Mayor made a new motion that was passed unanimously

in favor of Bridges getting 30 more days, saving her dreams for another month.

He informed Bridges that the ball was in her court and she needed to move

forward immediately with her attempts to save the project.