Worship center collapses
Around 3 p.m. at 127 Jackson Ave., in Russellville, Miller and his grandson were outside when the front of the property began to fall down. They were able to move out of the way in time to escape injury, and it wasn’t long before officials were on the scene managing the disaster.
“The city did a remarkable job, and everybody was so kind and nice to us,” Miller said.
The building had previously been condemned by city code enforcer Bill Fuller, who said the front had structural problems. Miller said he was in the process of getting those problems fixed when it collapsed.
“We’re glad nobody was under there. This could have been a whole different outlook,” said EMA Director Jody Hitt.
Mayor David Grissom and the Russellville City Council held an emergency special-called meeting Oct. 25 to discuss the situation. In the end, the council voted to approve Miller deeding that property and 217 Lawrence Street to the City of Russellville.
“It’s a dangerous situation down there, which is why we’re trying to get this done quickly,” said attorney Danny McDowell.
A structural engineer has already visited the site, and the city will be conferring with him on the next best step to take. As for now, the city is focusing on cleaning up the property.
