The city of Lima is taking a stand against a downtown motel to either clean it up or tear it down.
A 490-page complaint has been filed in Allen County Common Pleas Court against the owner of the Royal Inn at 218 West Market Street. The lawsuit alleges that the premises constitute a public nuisance under both Ohio law and city ordinances.
After the metal roof of the motel blew off in high winds on April 4th a joint inspection was done with the city and the State Fire Marshal with the findings leading to the complaint seeking a resolution to the situation.
The inspection of the Royal Inn found 11-fire code violations and 9-property maintenance violations. The lawsuit also states that the premises have been used for felony drug violations and illegal sexual activities. Officials also saw signs of long-term residency.
The suit also states that since January 2016 the Lima Police Department has had 452 calls for service at the premises. The Lima Fire Department has had 60 emergency medical calls, 13 of which involved suspected drug overdoses. And since 2013 the State Fire Marshal has cited the Royal Inn for 47 fire code violations ranging from non-functioning smoke alarms to infestations of bugs. A hearing is scheduled for June 7th in Allen County Common Pleas Court.
