VIENNA — Vienna aldermen voted Jan. 5 to move forward with the demolition of seven dilapidated properties across the city, using funding from a state grant aimed at removing unsafe structures.

City officials said the properties are not occupied homes and do not meet the definition of habitable residential housing. No one currently lives in the structures, which have been allowed to deteriorate and are considered dilapidated under city code. The demolition effort is intended to reduce safety hazards and address long-standing nuisance properties throughout the city.

The project is funded through a Community Development Block Grant from the Missouri Department of Economics, that is aimed at removing unsafe structures, allowing the city to cover demolition costs without placing a financial burden on the city’s general fund. Property owners did not apply for the program. Instead, the properties were identified through city inspections and complaints, followed by required notifications and compliance timelines.

Mayor Tim Schell said the demolitions follow a structured process, including notice to property owners and opportunities to address violations before demolition is authorized.

“These properties have reached a point where demolition is the safest option,” Schell said.

According to City Clerk Tracy Shiver, demolition costs are $500 per homeowner and the Fire Department will have to pay 20 percent of there demlotion as they are not a residential property. The City has not yet decided a contractor. A bid for a contractor will be decided at a Feb. 23 meeting.

The properties approved for demolition include structures owned by the Vienna Fire Protection District at 431 Eighth Street. Thomas Evans at 523 First Street. Donnie and Vicki Bade at 102 and 103 Branson Road. Greg and Becky Steffen at 710 North Main Street. Richard and Gail Howard at 180 Fifth Street. And a structure owned by Alan Fick located behind 509 Highway 63 North.

Shiver said demolition scheduling and follow-up inspections are expected in the coming weeks.

Aldermen said that the project reflects broader challenges related to aging and neglected properties in Vienna. They said the state grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development provides an opportunity to address unsafe structures proactively rather than responding after conditions worsen.

Separately, city officials reiterated that Vienna continues to enforce minimum housing standards. Residences under 480 square feet are not permitted under city ordinance. Officials emphasized that this requirement is unrelated to the demolition project but reflects the city’s ongoing focus on safety and habitability.