A property owner could be in trouble after Corpus Christi Code Enforcement officers launched an investigation into her properties.
According to Captain Chris White with the Corpus Christi Police Department, code enforcement officers received an anonymous call a few weeks ago about people living in substandard conditions on a property at 325 Waco Street. The property consists of a large home and apartments behind it.
When code enforcement officers arrived, they found the property at 321 Waco Street was also substandard. They found tenants had illegal water and electricity hookups. So, they contacted the Utilities Business Office, Environmental Services and AEP crews.
Officers found at least one family living on the property and are trying to track down the other tenants who live there.
Through their investigation, they found both properties are owned by the same person. According to the Nueces County Appraisal District’s online database, both properties are owned by Joyce Hetzel.
Captain White said as soon as they’re done with their inspection, they’ll meet with the property owner who could now receive several citations. “It’s the owner of the property who is responsible for maintaining the property, making it suitable to live in. From what we’ve identified, There’s some issues that need to be addressed.”
It hasn’t been determined if the property will be condemned but Capt. White said if the properties are deemed to be unlivable, the property owner is responsible to find suitable living conditions for them to move into.
Capt. White added the city will ask the property owner to get the property under compliance. If the property owner refuses, they will take the matter to court.
