Sell 4 Free Real Estate
Kippenbrock Property Received Final Continuance
The Dubois County Trash Court reconvened this week for its final review of a local residence.
The county became directly involved with the Kippenbrock property in June of 2025, when
letters were sent regarding mounting debris, inoperable vehicles, and various other issues at
the location. It was noted that complaints have come in over the last several years, which
prompted the original citations. These have continued in recent months, during the time that
the owners were given to bring the property up to code.
Approximately six weeks ago, the property owners were in attendance at the court regarding
the county’s assertion of continued violations. At that time, the location was found to
potentially constitute a health nuisance due to accumulated waste and vermin infestation. Both
combustible and non-combustible waste were found to be present, and met the definitions of
junk and trash as defined in the ordinance. They were given time to remedy the noted issues
before action would be taken by the county.
A notice of violation was mailed to the Kippenbrocks, requiring them to remove and properly
dispose of trash and junk within thirty days, and confirm that vehicles on the property are
operational and registered. The county ordinance allows for violations to carry fines of up to
$1000 each. If not remedied by the owner, the county can utilize its resources to remove the
violations.
Solid Waste Director Carla Striegel-Winner acknowledged improvements in the property’s
overall appearance, with a front lawn free of weeds and debris. Vehicles have also been moved
to the back of the property and items have been moved away from neighboring property lines,
although it was reported that there are still a lot of items accumulating. Many of the remaining
items, including metal scraps and steel crates, were associated with an on-site firewood
business. Striegel-Winner said that the current condition reflected a lot of work, but
recommended assessing a fine due to the length of the process.
When asked if he planned to cease or continue business operations, Lance Kippenbrock
responded that he is not maintaining an active business. He confirmed that he is not bringing
new items onto the property and plans to continue cleaning up. Asked about the future of the
on-site woodworking, owner Cynthia Kippenbrock emphasized that their wood-burner that is
the primary source of heat for the home.
Significant improvements on the properties were acknowledged, and the Kippenbrocks agreed
to continue progress on cleanup efforts. As the deadline of August 3 was not met, possible next
steps were discussed. A county representative will meet the owners at the residence to identify
all remaining compliance issues. If these are not resolved at the end of two weeks, the county
will take any necessary actions including removal of items from the property. A fine of $800 will
be considered at the conclusion of the two-week continuance. The owners were also cautioned
that future violations, or failure to complete the current outstanding work, could result in
additional action by the county.
For more information on these and other updates, visit duboiscountyin.org/government
- Drew Hasselbring