MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council is expected to consider a resolution Monday ordering the repair or demolition of the former Eaton/Cessna industrial facility at 3405 E. 4th Avenue after years of code violations, failed redevelopment efforts and safety concerns.
According to a staff report from Building Official Jason Lady, the structure has been deemed unsafe and dangerous under city code because of conditions that present hazards to public health and safety. The city has spent several years working with property owners and developers to bring the building into compliance, but officials say progress has been insufficient.
The building has a long history in Hutchinson. Originally constructed in 1942 as a Cessna Aircraft facility, it later became part of Eaton Hydraulics before closing in 2006. Portions of the massive facility were later used by Sunflower Wind and other businesses.
City documents outline numerous code enforcement actions dating back more than a decade. Inspections identified issues including an inoperable fire alarm system, lack of a certificate of occupancy, structural deterioration, and unsafe conditions following a partial roof collapse during a 2024 windstorm.
Staff reports indicate the property owner has been given multiple extensions and opportunities to submit plans for repairs and redevelopment. The city says permits were issued for limited work but required plans and code compliance measures were never completed. A Building Trades Board appeal in April 2026 upheld the city's determination that the building would need to be fully sprinklered before redevelopment could proceed.
If approved, the resolution would require the owner to repair or remove the structure by Aug. 19. Failure to comply could allow the city to proceed with demolition and assess the costs against the property.
Five Residential Properties Also Scheduled for Hearing
Council members will also hold hearings on five residential structures that city officials say have remained vacant, deteriorated and in violation of city codes for extended periods. The properties include: 315 Justice Street, 1701 E. 3rd Avenue, 300 N. Town Street, 2700 Leonard Avenue and 1500 W. 12th Avenue.
City staff reports cite issues such as long-term vacancy, boarded windows, lack of utilities, property maintenance violations and delinquent taxes. Officials say each property presents health, safety or structural concerns and meets the city's criteria for unsafe and dangerous structures.
Housing Incentive District Hearing Expected to Be Continued
The council is also scheduled to consider continuing a public hearing related to the proposed Meadows on Monroe Reinvestment Housing Incentive District, or RHID. The development would include approximately 57 single-family homes near Monroe Street and 36th Avenue.
According to city staff, final development and related housing incentive documents are still being completed. Staff is recommending the public hearing be continued until the July 7 City Council meeting to allow additional time for review. The proposed district would help finance public infrastructure improvements associated with the residential development.
The Hutchinson City Council is scheduled to meet Monday evening at City Hall.