MERRILLVILLE | It appears the Plan Commission won't allow the subdivision of two lots in the 700 block of West 73rd Avenue until owners of the property repair or tear down a home on one of the lots.

Regional Investors LLC wants to subdivide the two properties with the intention of selling the homes on the lots.

At a Plan Commission workshop Tuesday, commission member Lance Huish said a home on one of the lots is in poor condition. The home also has been involved in the town's unsafe and blighted buildings hearings.

Town Attorney Steve Bower said the owners have boarded up the home, which was one of the major concerns discussed during a recent hearing.

Steve Jamrok, a partner with Regional Investors LLC, told the Plan Commission there are some potential buyers of the properties.

Bower had concerns that the potential buyers could purchase the homes without knowing one of the buildings was involved in the unsafe and blighted buildings hearings, but Jamrok said Regional Investors LLC wouldn't let that happen.

Huish, who also is a town councilman, said he wouldn't vote to subdivide the property until the company takes care of the home.

"It's been an eyesore for as far back as I can remember," Huish said.

He said he either wants the home to come down or he wants proof that the house is structurally sound and can be renovated.

Huish also encouraged Jamrok to bring the potential buyers to the Plan Commission's Dec. 16 meeting, which is when the commission will make a decision regarding the subdivision of the properties.