Posted: March 17, 2008 16:42:00 PST
On March 17, City of Bellingham Building Official Preston Burris, along with the Bellingham Fire Department Life Safety Division, declared the Roth Apartments unsafe and ordered the immediate evacuation of all 41 occupants until significant repairs to the main structural supports in the basement of the building can be made. According to Burris and a contractor hired by the building owner, some of the main structural beams and support structure that support the entire building show obvious signs of failure that have worsened within the last month.
The owners of the building, Parberry Incorporated, immediately brought the hazard to the attention of city fire and building officials and are making arrangements to accommodate the displaced residents. Property manager Carol Kuljis said, "We don't care about the building, we care about the people." Due to the complexity and scope of the problem it is unknown when residents will be able to return. "I am very impressed and appreciative of the proactive approach Ms. Kuljis and her company are taking in ensuring the safety and basic living needs of their tenants", noted Bellingham Fire Chief Bill Boyd.
The Roth Apartments, located at 1106 W. Holly, have a total of 25 apartments. According to Whatcom Museum Archivist Jeff Jewell, the building was constructed in 1891 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Roth apartments were named for Lottie Roeder Roth, daughter of Bellingham pioneer Henry Roeder.
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Media contact:
Andy Day, Assistant Fire Chief
O: 360 778-8442
C: 360 815-1589
