Hartford City: Property Standards Board Orders Teardown at 1102 North Monroe

From the Hartford City Property Standards Board meeting on June 10, 2026

The Hartford City Property Standards Board voted 3-0 to uphold a teardown order at 1102 North Monroe Street. The property owner, Mr. Fletcher, who purchased the property in November 2024, reported financial hardship — reduced work hours and his wife's illness — preventing rehabilitation. He initially intended to flip the property but found foundation damage worse than expected.

City Attorney Tyler Rothstein asked whether the owner would sign the property over to the city. The owner declined, stating he wanted to recoup his investment.

The 60-day compliance period runs from the May 21, 2026 posting date. The city cannot file court action until approximately July 20. After that, the case will be referred to Blackford County Circuit Court, with an estimated hearing date around September 2026.

Board members present: Ron Dudelston (President), Colleen Dickey, and Bob Kingery.

Source: Meeting transcript — Hartford City Property Standards Board, June 10, 2026

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.