Sunnyvale officials are taking decisive action regarding a fire-damaged property that has remained unoccupied and in disrepair since a significant incident in September 2023. During a recent Building Standards Commission meeting, it was revealed that the structure has sustained extensive damage, including warped structural beams and collapsed interior walls, raising serious concerns about public safety.

Following the fire, the Sunnyvale Town Council directed staff to investigate the building's substandard and unsafe condition. An inspection conducted by the building official and the fire marshal confirmed that the property poses a potential threat to public health due to the risk of further collapse, especially under adverse weather conditions.

In light of these findings, both officials recommended that the building be demolished to eliminate the safety hazard. The town has begun the process of obtaining estimates for the demolition, with one bid already received and two more pending. The variance in costs is primarily attributed to the need for an environmental study, which is crucial for ensuring safe demolition practices.

This proactive approach underscores Sunnyvale's commitment to maintaining community safety and addressing hazardous structures promptly. The next steps will involve reviewing the additional demolition bids and moving forward with the abatement process to ensure the site is cleared and safe for future use.