In Crossett, Arkansas, the city council has raised concerns about a local derelict apartment complex. The council is concerned that they may be unable to finance necessary demolition or renovations due to the presence of deadly asbestos in the building.

Asbestos is linked to pleural mesothelioma and other deadly medical conditions.

The property is owned by Jerry Dixon, who was scheduled to appear before the council two months ago to discuss the dangerous condition of his building. However, Dixon has now started to ignore calls from the council.

Although Dixon has made some upgrades to the apartments, much more needs to be done.

Jeff Harrison, public works director, stated he does not know what other action he can take to get Dixon’s attention. “I called him all day today [the day of the council meeting] and all day Friday…He’s done a little [work on the apartments to bring them to code] but not much. It’s not where it needs to be.”

Harrison condemned the Dixon apartments last year after discovering electrical equipment that was posing a fire hazard.

While some remodeling has since been done, more work including finishing the siding must be completed.

Harrison said if the city has to demolish the apartments it may cost $40,000 to $50,000. “I’m evaluating that off the cost of houses,” said Harrison.

The expense, he said, is asbestos testing and removal if it is positive. “We’re in a bad spot with him. I agree something has to be done,” he said.

If asbestos is indeed present, special precautions will need to be taken to remove the asbestos. Air quality testing will also be needed.

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