The future of a deteriorating building at 34 W. State St. in the heart of Doylestown Borough remains uncertain after a district court hearing scheduled to address the issue was continued. The hearing, which was set to determine the next steps for the property, will now take place on February 10, 2025. In the meantime, negotiations between the borough and the property owner are ongoing.

Escalating Concerns Over Public Safety

The three-story brick building has been a growing concern since June 2024, when pieces of the facade fell onto the sidewalk, posing a public safety hazard. The building has been vacant for some time, and its condition has continued to decline. As a result, Doylestown Borough began citing the property’s owner, Claudio Roman Jr., for violating two borough ordinances related to building maintenance and safety.

If Roman is found guilty, he could face penalties of up to $1,000 per day for each violation. These escalating fines reflect the borough’s commitment to addressing the safety risks posed by the building.

Legal Actions and Potential Settlement

Karen Hyland, Doylestown Borough’s Director of Building and Zoning, stated that both sides are working toward a settlement to avoid further legal action. However, if negotiations fail, the borough is prepared to escalate the matter by filing a lawsuit with the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas. This lawsuit would aim to compel the property owner to make necessary improvements to the building’s facade and address safety concerns.

The Path Forward

The upcoming hearing in February will be a critical milestone in determining the building’s future. For Doylestown residents and visitors, the deteriorating condition of 34 W. State St. serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining the borough’s architectural integrity and ensuring public safety.

Why This Matters

For property owners, this situation underscores the importance of adhering to local building and safety codes. Neglecting maintenance can not only result in fines but also lead to lengthy legal battles and potential harm to the community. For Doylestown, resolving this issue is essential to preserving the charm and safety of its historic borough center.

Stay Updated

We will continue to monitor developments in this case and provide updates as they become available. To learn more about Doylestown real estate and community news, stay connected with us.

Sources:

  • Bucks County Herald, December 24, 2024