JESSICA WOODYARD
City of Hutchinson
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson is moving forward with addressing the safety concerns surrounding the Atrium Hotel and Conference Center, located at 1400 N Lorraine Street. On July 2, 2024, the City Council will meet to schedule a public hearing for August 20, 2024, to discuss the potential condemnation and demolition of the property.
The City has determined that this structure is a substandard building and constitutes an unsafe and dangerous building.
The City conducted an inspection of the Atrium Hotel and identified several critical safety issues:
• No running water since December 2019
• Extensive vandalism resulting in the removal of most copper wiring and rendering electrical services inoperable
• Fire suppression system broken for over three years
• Non-functional heating and air conditioning units due to stripped copper tubing and wiring
• Broken windows and doors
• Presence of black mold, posing significant health risks
Actions Taken
Over the past few years, the City has undertaken temporary measures, including painting over graffiti, boarding up doors and windows, and mowing the grass. However, there are 16 unpaid invoices for these abatement activities.
Next Steps
According to the city’s code on unsafe and dangerous buildings, the City Council must set a time and place for a public hearing to discuss the issue. At the July 2 meeting, the Council will be asked to schedule a public hearing for August 20, 2024, at 9:00 AM. At the hearing, property owners, agents, or interested parties can present evidence, and the Building Official will provide detailed findings.
This hearing is an essential step in addressing the blight and safety hazards posed by the Atrium Hotel.
Statement from City Manager
City Manager Enrico Villegas emphasized the importance of addressing the Atrium Hotel's issues promptly: "The safety and well-being of our community is our top priority.
The current state of the Atrium Hotel poses significant risks, and it is essential that we take immediate action to protect our residents."
For more information, please contact the City of Hutchinson's Building Inspection Department.
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