For several years, people living, working, or simply traveling on Avenida Palizada near the 5 Freeway in San Clemente had to look at an abandoned, dilapidated gas station and, frankly, an eye-sore.
More Than Just Appearances
Locations like these typically attract crime and encourage more blight. This property, located at 422 N. Avenida De La Estrella, was no exception. Thankfully, the residents of San Clemente are no longer subject to this kind of danger and can look forward to future use of the property that contributes positively to the community.
No Action by The Owner
For several years, the city issued notices requesting compliance and even thousands of dollars in administrative fines for various issues, such as the lack of property maintenance, the deterioration of the building, abandoned gas pumps and buildings, and broken security lighting.
Unfortunately, the property owner didn’t comply or pay the City’s fines.
Civica Law’s Matt Silver and Daniel Ohl worked closely with the City of San Clemente to help obtain compliance from the property owner. As always, the City’s goal was to have all the violations of law correct, and, ideally, save the City thousands of dollars in litigation expenses.
Lawsuit Filed, Settlement Obtained
With few options available, a lawsuit was filed in May 2022. Through the legal process, a compliance agreement was eventually reached, and the property was cleaned up and in compliance by March 2023. The owner demolished the gas station and reimbursed the City of San Clemente its costs related to the nuisance abatement process. By reaching a compliance agreement, the City and its taxpayers saved thousands of dollars in potential future litigation expenses. Here, the City obtained compliance while saving funds: a perfect combination.
Civic Law’s Commitment
Every team member at Civica Law has the same intention: to provide the best legal service to the communities they serve while keeping expenses to taxpayers as low as possible.
Media Coverage
San Clemente Times: Property Owner Removes Abandoned Gas Station Following Settlement Agreement with City
