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Iola Today
By the People, for the People
Iola Council Discusses Aging Homes, Potential Condemnations
Developer seeks to save historic home from demolition as city moves forward with condemnation process
Mar. 10, 2026 at 8:22pm
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The Iola City Council discussed the fate of several aging homes in the city, including one that a developer is working to preserve. Code enforcement officer Gregg Hutton outlined the issues with the homes, which include roof damage, deteriorating siding, and overgrown vegetation. While the city is proceeding with condemnation paperwork on some properties, the council was receptive to the developer's plans to address the needed repairs on one home.
Why it matters
Aging and neglected homes can pose safety risks and detract from a community's appearance, but the city is also working with a developer to find solutions that preserve historic properties when possible. This highlights the balance Iola is trying to strike between addressing blight and maintaining the character of the city.
The details
Brendon Crain of Crain Holdings and Investments LLC and Iolans Craig and Crystal Richey told the City Council they are working to preserve a home at 506 E. Lincoln St. that is one of four going through the city's condemnation procedures. The home needs a new roof, has deteriorating siding, and has dense vegetation around the structure that has drawn complaints from neighbors. Crain informed the council he is getting bids to replace the roof and will soon address the other issues. While the city is proceeding with the condemnation paperwork, they are receptive to Crain's plans and may drop the matter once the improvements are made.
- The condemnation process will take a few more months, with the earliest demolition occurring in August.
- The home at 415 N. Elm St. has had a fallen front porch, sagging back porch and roof, and a deteriorating foundation for the past two years.
The players
Brendon Crain
Developer with Crain Holdings and Investments LLC who is working to preserve a historic home in Iola.
Craig and Crystal Richey
Iolans who have a contract to sell the 506 E. Lincoln St. property to Crain.
Gregg Hutton
Iola code enforcement officer who outlined the issues with the aging homes.
What they’re saying
“I'd really like to somehow create that conversation, get other people involved as well. That way we can restore something before it's too late.”
— Brendon Crain, Developer
What’s next
The judge will decide in the coming months whether to allow the city to proceed with the condemnation of the homes, though the process may be halted if the developer is able to make the necessary repairs.
The takeaway
This case highlights the challenges cities face in balancing the need to address aging and neglected properties with the desire to preserve historic homes and buildings. Iola is working with a developer to find solutions that meet both goals, demonstrating a collaborative approach to community revitalization.
