The PNJ has a story on PENKO & the Willenziks being fined for not repairing the exteriors of their two ancient buildings on the corners of Palafox Place and Main Street.[LINK] The buildings were damaged by Hurricane Ivan two years ago. They are being fined $100 per day.
For the Willenziks to plead hardship is ridiculous. In June 2005, they sold their warehouse on Main Street (which they bought for $325,000) for $2,000,000 to STRATEGIC CROSSING PHASE III LLC. They have the money to repair the building properly.
According to the PNJ article, the Willenziks (under the name WILLKO INVESTMENT CO) want to sell 415 Palafox St. for “in excess of $2 million”. The building’s accessed value is $190,570.
There’s nothing wrong with making a profit, but the City is right to make them fix up the exteriors of these two eyesores. There is a difference between being a pig and a hog.
Suggested next project for the City – Blount Building. Owned by another wealthy Pensacola family (Rainwaters of Hygeia Coca Cola $$$$). Much of it remains empty and could be converted to affordable loft apartments.
