Owner Of House Ordered To Be Demolished Fights Back

Pete Sabo claims the city exceeded its authority and didn't comply with state law and local ordinances

FARGO, N.D. — The Fargo City Commission’s decision to order the demolition of a dilapidated house may not be a done deal.

The lawyer for the owner of the house, Pete Sabo, says the city exceeded its authority and didn’t comply with state law and local ordinances.

Last week, commissioners voted unanimously to condemn the vacant house at 427 15th Avenue South and raze it by the end of the month if Sabo won’t do it.

He wants the city to reverse its decision and issue permits so repairs can be completed by January 1.

The assessed value of the house is $176,000.

It was determined to be dangerous several years ago and city inspectors found dozens of code violations.