DARLINGTON, SC (WBTW) – Darlington City Council met to discuss a housing demolition that’s been suggested since November of last year. Nearly half of the two-hour meeting focused on demolishing houses in Darlington. Alex Gainey stood before Darlington City Council Tuesday night for one reason.
“We’re trying to save the city money and take more property down,” said Gainey.
Several buildings have been up for discussion to be demolished in Darlington for 10 months. At times, council members were confused.
“I’m not understanding it in the way that you’re saying because why take it on when we’re not going to spend more than $60,000?” questioned one council member.
“You can spend $60,000 and you can take down 18 houses max or you can spend $60,000 and do it in-house and take all of your houses down that are on the demolition list and do other stuff that you need to do,” responded Gainey.
At one point, the issue of asbestos was discussed.
“But I’m not more concerned with saving money than I am with a person’s health,” said one council member.
Gainey answered by suggesting a piece of equipment that would keep the person operating it safe.
“The piece of equipment that we looked at has an enclosed cap that has filtered air,” explained Gainey.
The council accepted the in-house budget, meaning the city does not plan to bid the demolition work out to another company. Council members do reserve the right to ask future questions about the demolition and equipment used in the process.
The next step before demolition can begin is to consider all options for needed equipment and work out a rental agreement for the equipment needed.