Toledo residents have long been living next to a deteriorating home on Airport Highway near Hanover, and the city has finally taken decisive action. After months of complaints from neighbor Joshua Shields and multiple inspections, the City of Toledo issued a 72‑hour order demanding that the property be demolished or that the owner remove the hazardous debris.
Neighborhood concerns spark city response
Joshua Shields, who has lived beside the property for six years, described the situation as a “nightmare.” He said his children cannot safely play outside because the foundation has collapsed, creating a large opening to the basement, and the yard has become a dumping ground for furniture, junk and other waste. “The pile is ever‑growing,” Shields said, adding that rats and raccoons have taken up residence, with one photo showing two raccoons emerging from the roof.
Shields also posted “no trespassing” signs in an effort to keep squatters away, but he feels abandoned by the system. “It feels like I’m left to my own with it, there’s no help,” he said.
City officials detail enforcement timeline
According to a statement from the City of Toledo, Code Compliance first issued public‑nuisance orders in December 2025, citing exterior‑maintenance violations, debris accumulation and unsecured building components. Inspectors followed up and communicated with a representative linked to the property about the required corrective actions.
In March 2026, Building Inspection became involved due to concerns over the deteriorating foundation and potential structural instability. The department issued orders mandating repairs, but continued complaints and inspections—including a recent inspection on Tuesday—led officials to conclude that the structure poses an imminent danger.
“The structural conditions warrant demolition,” the city said. “If the owner fails to comply, Building Inspection intends to initiate imminent‑danger demolition proceedings, and the City will begin preparing the property for demolition.”
Owner and listing agent unresponsive
Lucas County Auditor records list the property as owned by 1850 Capital III LLC, a limited‑liability company with a mailing address in North Canton, Ohio. The home is currently listed for sale, but attempts by 13 Action News to contact the owner were unsuccessful. The listing agent declined to confirm the affiliated parties over the phone and did not respond to follow‑up texts.
Public‑safety priority
The city emphasized that protecting public safety remains its top priority as it moves forward with enforcement and demolition procedures. Residents like Shields hope the swift action will prevent further hazards, such as falling debris, pest infestations and potential injuries to nearby families.
City officials indicated that if the owner presents a viable demolition plan within the 72‑hour window, the city will consider it. Otherwise, the city will proceed with demolition to eliminate the danger to the neighborhood.
What this means for the community
For families living along Airport Highway, the demolition order signals a commitment by local government to address blighted properties that threaten safety and quality of life. The swift response also demonstrates the effectiveness of code‑enforcement mechanisms when residents raise concerns and cooperate with city inspectors.
Neighbors are encouraged to continue reporting unsafe conditions and to stay informed about city actions through the Toledo Code Compliance and Building Inspection departments.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
