Time Running Out For Ferris Woman's Longtime Home

FERRIS (CBSDFW.COM) - Close to a dozen people gathered in front of Jackie Kimbrell's Ferris home Wednesday. It was the night the city told her she had to be moved out by, but there were no signs of moving.

Kimbrell, 72, stood with her new friends and prayed. She said she hoped her words were powerful enough to save her house.

"This is the only thing I have," Kimbrell said. "If I lose this house I will have nothing."

Kimbrell's home was supposed to be demolished this summer because the city felt it was unsafe and not up to code. She was granted an extension, but could not bring it up to the city's standards. In October, the city council voted to demolish the home.

"I know it doesn't look good now but it is the most beautiful thing you can imagine when it is like it's supposed to be," Kimbrell said.

After hearing what Kimbrell was dealing with, a number of volunteers stepped up and wanted to help restore the home, which needs new plumbing, electrical work and a roof.

"I could have it up to code in less than two months if I was just given the opportunity," said Cheryl Tippit, a volunteer from Tarrant County.

Tippit was among a growing group willing to volunteer both time and money. The group took a detailed plan to the city but was told by a board appointed by the city council that it was too late.

"It breaks my heart they are doing this they don't have to do this," Tippit said. "They don't have to do this they can do the right thing and help here but they are choosing not to and it breaks my heart."

Kimbrell has a heart condition and said she's tried to fix up the house but never had the money.

Though she works full time, she said she's had a difficult time making ends meet.

She insists she's not going anywhere and prays she can hold on to the one place that's been home for more than 30 years.

"I'm going to fight clear to the Supreme Court if I have to and I am going to stay here in the meantime," Kimbrell said.

The city's next step is to move ahead with legal action and evict Kimbrell. Meanwhile, she could fined $2,000 a day for staying in the house.

No one with the city would go on camera, but the city manager did say the city doesn't want Kimbrell's property; they only want her out for her own safety.