MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com)--Is there a double standard in the fight against blight in Memphis?
The city sued nearly 90 people last week because their properties are eyesores. But drive around town and you'll find dilapidated buildings owned by the city and the county. And let's not forget about all those abandoned schools.
Memphis Mayor A C Wharton had plenty of harsh words for property owners of abandoned apartment complex's during a recent news conference.
The old Walter Simmons public housing complex is 32 acres of overgrown weeds and piles of trash. Buildings are wide open for anyone to walk in.
Memphis City Schools technically owns the old Locke Elementary School, but points the finger at the Memphis Housing Authority, saying it has an option to buy it. Whoever is responsible for keeping it clean, it isn't.
Mary Claire Borys works right across the street. "They just leave it open. Anyone can walk in and do drugs...there are homeless people."
The old Melrose school is also in disrepair. MCS says its Memphis' problem because the Memphis Park Service has leased it.
Steve Barlow was hired by Memphis to go after private property owners. "The strategy is to send a message that these kind of conditions will not be tolerated."
But what is the message if the city isn't cleaning up its mess?
Barlow admits it can be done, but don't hold your breath.
Wharton insists the city will clean up its mess.
Borys says stop talking and take action.
"If the mayor is really serious about blight, they need to hold themselves and other government institutions responsible and not just private property owners."
