"The picture seen in this column is an actual scene near Wells and North Ave. Loose bricks have been piled up row upon row, not cemented, thus making a major catastrophe both in lives and property imminent.

 This building has been in the condition as depicted in this picture for the past ten years. The neighbors have complained time and time again but to no avail. The LPCA whose main function is to preserve the area is lending the support of the entire community to bring immediate action and help to save lives.

The above 'eye' sore spot can help deteriorate a community and also be instrumental in bringing the value of real estate to a low par. Report any building sorespot to our LPCA office."

LPCA Newsletter
[July 1968]

"Thanks to Sarah (Wrecking Ball) Sess, Jim Brick, and George Hides of the Building Department . . . the vacant building at 834 Willow (nw corner of Willow and Dayton) has finally been demolished. This dangerous abandoned building sat in this condition for over two years while the owner played the 'I just purchased it, give me a little time to fix it up Judge' game. It is interesting to note that this building had three separate sales and new owners during the first four months of 1968. this is also part of the delay game, i.e., each change of ownership requires a time consuming new title search by the building department. We were more happy to work with Sarah on this dangerous building. Our new LPCA code enforcement strategy is to work with the one 'key concern' building in each of the seven neighborhood associations. For example, now that 834 Willow has been demolished -- the new key concern building for Ranch in 1832 Fremont (rear).

These pictures are secured by the LPCA to quickly inform the building department of the present conditions of 'key concern' buildings. The quick building department action including direct response from Commissioner Smith would indicate some success. Our thanks to Al Ganz, Peter Barrett, and Roland Whitman for their personal checks totaling $150 which are paying for these pictures and court reporter. At the May and June Compliance Board Hearings, LPCA utilized their own court reporter which had the effect of motivating all persons involved -- it appears there may be more compliance at Compliance Board."