Aggravated is the word Joe Webb used multiple times to describe his frustration with unsafe and unkempt properties.
When Webb, Cambridge City’s public works superintendent, updated town council during its April 13 meeting about potentially unsafe buildings he’s been investigating, he noted zero responses from several homeowners regarding repairing or cleaning their properties.
Town attorney Bob Bever said Webb can declare a property unsafe. Webb writes a letter outlining a remedy, ranging from fixing a porch to complete demolition. Owners may speak at a public hearing in front of council, which can affirm, amend or ignore Webb’s recommendation.
Homes he’s most concerned about include 311 W. Parkway, 307 W. Parkway, and 403 S. Walnut, where a roof fell in.
Webb said someone is interested in buying 307 W. Parkway and tearing it down, but he’s only heard support from a relative of the owner, with no confirmation from the owner.
He’s checking on a few more hazardous roof issues.
Webb’s also frustrated with adults who don’t mow their yards, especially if he’s sent them a warning letter and they clean up their property to avoid a fine and then they let it grow again. Additional challenges include the same 50 customers getting water shut off regularly and unresponsive businesses when he’s seeking product or service quotes.
Webb believes some residents think the town should coordinate demolition of all unsafe properties. The town successfully applied for some recent Wayne County blight elimination funds to demolish a few properties, but that doesn’t replace owner responsibility, he said.
Councilors supported enforcing fines, even if court is required, and putting them on tax bills.
Residents may submit anonymous complaints through a form at town hall, 127 N. Foote St.
Concerns about abandoned vehicles go to Cambridge City Police Department.
Bever and councilor Mike Amick said they’d work with Webb on next steps.
Caring for Cambridge cleanup
Cambridge City’s spring-cleaning blitz is planned from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25.
Those who need help cleaning their properties or disposing of waste can request volunteer assistance.
The town will offer free dumpsters at its maintenance building, 152 S. Green St., for western Wayne residents until containers are filled. No tires, hazardous waste or electronics will be accepted.
Scouts will collect appliances and scrap metal that they’ll recycle, and proceeds will benefit their local projects.
In addition, Riverside Cemetery, 708 S. Cambridge Road, will be open for yard waste disposal.
Volunteers are needed at the collection site and to assist residents who request help cleaning their properties or hauling items to the dumpsters or the cemetery’s brush pile.
To give or receive help, call or text 812-327-7391.
A version of this article appeared in the April 22 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.