JOHNSTOWN - The Common Council this week approved two resolutions to help curb blight in the city and improve the tax rolls.

The council voted to accept sealed bids for asbestos removal until 10 a.m. Nov. 12 in the city clerk's office for city-owned property at 10 Washington St.

City officials determined it is necessary to demolish the building there. C.T. Male Associates of Latham has performed pre-demolition and asbestos surveys identifying the material at the Washington Street property. Officials said asbestos must be removed from the property before demolition.

Mayor Sarah J. Slingerland told the council the city periodically takes possession of properties through foreclosure. She said the city often will send the code enforcement officer, city engineer, police chief and city assessor to survey the properties to determine if they have "any life in them."

Slingerland said in the case of 10 Washington St., the property "isn't a productive piece of housing stock." The plan is to have the city demolish the building and make the property available for the tax rolls, she said.

In another blight-related matter, the council accepted a $3,500 bid from Mary Ann Morrison to buy city-owned property at 107 Washington St.

Sidewalk projects

Second Ward Councilman Chris Foss said the business portion of the city's Sidewalk Replacement Program is almost completed for another year.

Slingerland said the city's overall beautification is aided by the program. The Department of Public Works replaces sidewalks by working with property owners. She said people can see a "remarkable improvement" after the residential and business sidewalk replacements.

Foss also reported the residential brush drop-off on West Main Street will continue until Dec. 1.

Michael Anich covers Johnstown and Fulton County news. He can be reached at johnstown@leaderherald.com.