It's been one long legal battle. An eviction process that started last year is almost over. Leann Nussberger with Visalia Veterans Service Home said, "we don't want any money from them, we just want them to move out."
She wants to turn a house near Central and Walnut in Visalia into a veterans home. A supportive place for those pursuing a higher education. It would be the only one of it's kind in the city.
There's just one man standing in the way, Clay Waggoner, "I don't think I'm a bad guy... I just stick up for what I believe in... the American right."
His beliefs landed him in court Wednesday but our cameras weren't allowed inside. Waggoner claimed he had a right to stay based on a verbal agreement.
Nussberger said she told him to pay up or leave back in November. The problem is, it wasn't in writing. Based on tenants rights, the judge could have ruled in Waggoner's favor. But Nussberger and her attorney decided to make an offer.
Her attorney said, "Tell him if he's out by the first, you'll be there with $600."
Waggoner agreed to leave but for $800. He appeared happy as he left the courtroom, "Justice is served," Waggoner said.
A bittersweet victory for Nussberger but it's just one problem resolved. She said Waggoner destroyed the home, "It's just extremely frustrating to see individuals living on the property causing destruction and due to technicalities and laws they could have possibly won the case."
Windows are broken, bathrooms are demolished and carpets are ripped out. Nussberger said the repairs will cost at least $50,000, "It'll take a lot of work and a lot of hands but I know we can do it."
She's hoping the community will help. Contractors, electricians, plumbers, anyone who can speed up the process and get the doors open by May 1st.
A veteran is planning on moving in soon to secure the property while it's being repaired.
If you would like to donate time or money, you can email Leann Nussberger; Leann@Gracehomes.org or you can call Andrew Terrazas at (559) 300-4966.
TXT 24
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