“Zombie” Homes An Issue in Minot

MINOT, N.D. (AP) — Residents of Minot who have rebuilt their homes after the devastating Souris River flood in 2011 are growing impatient with owners of homes that have been left neglected or abandoned.

Boarded-up, mold-ridden and debris-infested properties still dot the city three years after the historic flood. Residents have taken to calling them "zombie homes" — and they want them dealt with.

Nathan Mugaas says the homes seem to be a low priority for the city. Lianne Zeltinger hopes to collect 400 signatures on petitions urging action to present to the City Council next month.

City Engineer Lance Meyer says the city is "working diligently" on the problem — but he says it takes a lot of manpower. And City Councilman Dave Lehner says owners of neglected properties have rights, too.