Extension Likely for Old Hospital Demolition

By Michael V. Hannigan

Thirty days are almost up, but it looks like it is going to be a little longer before we know anything regarding the old Henderson County Memorial Hospital in Athens.

In June, the Athens Substandard Building Commission issued an order to have the hospital demolished, with the owner having 30 days to either tear down the building or appeal the order to a judge.

Instead, it looks like the owner will probably ask for and be granted a 30-day extension.

City officials say the extension will give the building’s owner time to sort through his options without having to resort to the courts at this stage, which could save legal fees for both the owner and the city in the long run.

If an extension is approved, it is unlikely anything will happen at the old hospital until September.

Below is a video from a tour of the hospital last month.