Homer Trustees Declare Fire-Damaged House Unsafe, Impose Non-Resident Fees for Recreation

Village to recoup costs for securing dangerous property, while also charging non-residents to access recreation programs.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Homer Board of Trustees declared a fire-damaged house at 35 James Street an unsafe structure and issued a condemnation notice to the property owner. The village may use public funds to secure the dangerous building, with plans to recoup the costs later. Additionally, the Homer Recreation Department will begin charging non-residents fees to access certain programs like pilates and yoga, citing unfairness to local taxpayers who fund the activities.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges municipalities face in dealing with unsafe, abandoned properties and the difficult decisions around allocating public resources. The new non-resident recreation fees also reflect the broader tensions between neighboring communities over shared services and funding.

The details

After a fire on Sunday, the Homer Board of Trustees and Code Officer Adam Brown declared the house at 35 James Street a dangerous structure. The village issued a condemnation notice to the property owner, who will have the opportunity to appeal. Under an emergency clause, the village may use public funds to secure the building, with plans to recoup the costs later. Meanwhile, the Homer Recreation Department will start charging non-residents to access certain programs like pilates and yoga, citing unfairness to local taxpayers who fund the activities. However, other community events like Music on the Green and the Halloween parade will remain open to everyone.

  • On Sunday, a fire occurred at the house on 35 James Street.
  • On Tuesday, the Homer Board of Trustees declared the house unsafe and issued a condemnation notice.
  • The village plans to use public funds to secure the dangerous building, with plans to recoup the costs later.

The players

Homer Board of Trustees

The local governing body that declared the fire-damaged house unsafe and issued a condemnation notice.

Adam Brown

The Homer Code Officer who also declared the house at 35 James Street a dangerous structure.

Pat Clune

The Mayor of Homer who praised the community's emergency response to the fire.

Andrew Pierce

The Homer Recreation Director who has built up the department's programs and secured grants and sponsorships.

David Donlick

The Cortlandville Deputy Supervisor who questioned if the Homer Recreation Department is using its resources effectively.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.