Osceola County Commissioners voted unanimously last night to demolish the Star Motel and sister property Lake Cecile in Kissimmee. Battles between the property owner and the county left residents without electricity and running water for months.
Commissioners voted to demolish both properties based on a recent fire and other longstanding code violations.
Commissioner Cheryl Grieb is a real estate agent. She says the county has an affordable housing problem but the Star Motel and Lake Cecile aren’t the solution.
“When we talk about affordable housing in real estate it’s safe, decent and affordable. And we don’t have that combination here.”
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Star Motel and Lake Cecile Manager Teena Conley said she wanted more time to refurbish the properties and turn the 250 rooms into transitional housing.
“All I’m asking for is a little bit of time. Please give us a little bit of time just to get this place together.”
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The Building Office said it had received applications for permits but no fees or supporting plans from Conley.
Foreclosure hearings are planned for Feb. 1 and 2.
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