The city of Fort Worth is advancing a new approach to address properties that generate significant criminal activity, with the Eco Motel on East Lancaster Avenue potentially facing demolition. This development stems from a pilot program that utilizes inspections, citations, and legal pressure to force property owners to resolve code violations.
Brian Daughtery, the city’s code compliance director, described the situation involving the Eco Motel as a major achievement for the initiative. He noted that the property has been a source of trouble for more than two decades, accumulating over 20 citations and frequent police responses. The city’s Nuisance Enforcement Task Force, known as NET Force, is now seeking a court order that would allow the municipality to demolish all six structures on the site if the owner does not bring them into compliance.
During a briefing to city leaders, Daughtery highlighted the long-standing nature of the problem at the motel. He explained that the goal was to secure orders compelling the owner to either fix the issues or face demolition. District 11 Councilwoman Jeanette Martinez praised the multi-departmental effort, citing the severe nature of the criminal activity at such locations, which includes drug use, prostitution, and repeated calls for first responders.
The pilot program initially focused on three high-profile offenders. In addition to the Eco Motel, NET Force targeted two convenience stores on Hemphill Street. One of those stores closed due to the pressure of numerous inspection violations. The third target, the Sandy Oaks Apartments, successfully addressed 859 identified violations. Daughtery noted that when city officials returned for a second inspection, approximately eight contracting groups were working on repairs, demonstrating the desired response from property owners.
The future of the NET Force initiative depends on whether the city budget can support the program on a permanent basis. If funding is approved, the city plans to move forward immediately with seven additional nuisance properties that have already been identified. Fort Worth is located approximately 31 miles west of Dallas.
