Moffeit CHANDLER — Seven houses are expected to be demolished this year as part of Chandler's code-enforcement program, city administrator Jim Moffeit said.

“Generally, these houses are uninhabitable and beyond repair. With our code enforce- ment, we tell the property owners their properties don't meet standards and that we can clear the lots at no cost to them.

“But some owners have asked us for more time to get their properties up to code. We haven't had to condemn anything yet."

The city is entering its third year of a contract with Sanitation Solutions of Paris, which allows that company to demolish the houses. Chandler's 2009- 2010 budget allocates $7,500 for the work.

"In our contract with Sanitation Solutions, they bring in their equipment and manpower and tear down up to seven houses a year," Moffeit said. "The city is only responsible for paying the landfill so much per ton."

Chandler is also responsible for disconnecting sewer and water hookups. Property owners must disconnect any other utilities on their lots, Moffeit said.

"So far, we've torn down 12 old houses throughout town. The demolitions have helped us get rid of vagrants and rodents. These properties are eye sores to the community, are health hazards, and pose safety risks.

“I think the people we've done it for have been very pleased.”

This year's demolitions won't begin for at least another three months, Moffeit said. Three properties have already been targeted.