From one problem to another

The demolition of one downtown Hartley building has revealed significant issues with another.

Real Reflections owner Tricia Elgersma last month was forced to move operations of her business across the street to Salon West. The abrupt change of space came following the demolition of the former Create-A-Craft building in November, which sat directly north of Real Reflections.

According to Elgersma, previously unseen water issues were revealed when the neighboring building was torn down. Moisture had been infiltrating the space between the two structures for decades, which rotted the exterior wood on Elgersma's north wall.

"There were never any leaks inside or issues like that inside," she said. "Once it was exposed, we could visibly see the problems from the outside."

That side of the building is also uninsulated – only the wood exterior, plaster and lath, and interior paneling are keeping the cold out now with the neighboring brick wall removed.

"The heater was running more and couldn't keep the building warm," Elgersma explained. "After two weeks, I realized I'd have to make a plan."

Salon West owner Teri Fredericks opened her doors to Elgersma and is allowing her to rent space while the situation unfolds.

"I've been so blessed to be able to have that," Elgersma said.

The local business owner also noted the northeast corner of Real Reflections has sunk in the weeks since the neighboring building was removed. If structural problems persist and worsen, she wasn't hopeful the building's north side could be repaired.

"Everything has been happening pretty fast," Elgersma said. "For the safety of me and my customers, I decided it was best for me not to be in there."

Elgersma's building was constructed in 1880. Hartley was founded in 1879. She's owned it since 2009.

Elgersma said she's unable to file an insurance claim since the damage has been ongoing and hidden for years, and was only discovered following the removal of the other building. She said late last week she's leaning "over 50 percent" that the structure will have to be torn down.

The former Create-A-Craft building was acquired by the city in recent years from owner Mary Rons after it was deemed dangerous due to its dilapidated and unfixable condition. Demolition occurred on Nov. 2.

Laura Lux, who owns GaLuxy Photo situated north of the former Create-A-Craft building, said she hasn't experienced the same issues as Elgersma. However, she will have to complete some exterior renovations on her south wall due to the other building's absence.

Elgersma said her business will remain in Salon West's location at 169 S Central Ave., indefinitely until the situation is resolved in some manner. She can be reached for appointments by calling (712) 348-0645.

"The city has been very helpful and kind to me throughout all of this," she said. "They don't want to lose another business and they want me to stay open. We're just trying to get a handle on the situation."