After many years of testing and analysis, the long-awaited findings are generally hopeful. In summary, the engineers have determined that the north portion of the berm supporting Building L is stable and safe to build on. However, the north section of the berm supporting Building M shows signs of continual slight movement averaging less than 1/4 inch per year. The report includes a design to elongate the berm, along with recommendations for placing concrete blocks to protect the face of the entire berm. The remaining portion of Building L is to be demolished, and approximately 13 ft of dirt is to be removed and relocated to help construct the new berm. A basement foundation is to be constructed to support the construction of a new Building L. The original berm must be reconstructed because the geo-grid was fire-damaged. The design includes installing about 112 push piers to lift and support Building M's foundation, once the berm is extended.
Now the work begins to obtain city approvals, seek construction bids, and secure the cooperation of all three affected property owners to honor the cost-sharing agreement negotiated years ago. Once the costs are determined, financial feasibility remains in question. The HOA owns the land and condominium rights to the 8-unit Building L. However, the HOA is not in the business of building and will most likely need to either sell the land or enter into a joint venture with a builder to reconstruct Building L. The HOA also owns five of the twelve units in Building M, which, if repairable, could be sold to help offset costs. It is hoped that the berm extension, reconstruction of Building L, and repairs to Building M can all be accomplished without assessing property owners.
Many questions remain, but there is hope that maybe this natural disaster may be mitigated so that all three property owners can have the stigma of condemnation lifted. The reports addressed to Mr. Jenkins, dated 2025 and early 2026, address repairs to the old Dairy Queen property and the need to reconstruct the original berm due to the fire damage. The latest report, dated August 2026, includes years of geotechnical data, conclusions, and recommendations for constructing an extended berm, as well as recommendations for the two Gardens South buildings.
