By Pat Trevino | Cuero Online News
August 24, 2025

The City of Yorktown has issued a public safety notice declaring the historic Yorktown Memorial Hospital an unsafe structure, prohibiting occupancy under Section 116 of the International Existing Building Code. The order, posted earlier this week, warns of potential structural failure and hazardous conditions, and explicitly bans public entry or use of the property.

The timing of the notice coincides with a paranormal event that was scheduled for Saturday, August 23, which city officials have deemed unauthorized. In the statement, the city emphasized that enforcement actions may be taken to protect public safety and that access to the property and surrounding area could be restricted.

The hospital, built in the late 1940s and operated by the Felician Sisters until its closure in 1980, has long been a magnet for ghost tours and paranormal investigations. Its reputation as one of Texas’s most haunted sites has drawn national attention and tourism, especially since its recent purchase by Curious Twins Tours & Events, who aim to preserve the building and continue hosting events.

But the city’s safety order has ignited a wave of public backlash, particularly on social media. A Facebook post from the City of Yorktown sharing the notice drew over 90 comments, many questioning the legality, timing, and transparency of the decision.

In this public Facebook thread, Stephanie Hobbs, a vocal community member, asked whether the city had issued prior violations or given the property owner a 30-day window to address hazards. “If there is a concern on the decision of the city, you can go to city hall and request the agenda and minutes leading to this decision,” she wrote. Others echoed her call for public records and questioned whether the building’s historic status had been considered.

Stephanie Mayfield added, “I’m not sure if a city can all of the sudden deem a structure on private property as unsafe for occupancy without any kind of violation notification prior to final decision.”

The conversation quickly broadened to include concerns about selective enforcement, economic impact, and the role of historic preservation. “If it wasn’t for the hospital, 99% of people wouldn’t even know this town exists,” wrote Krystal Autry, who criticized the city for focusing on the hospital while other issues—like homelessness, stray animals, and dilapidated homes—persist.

Others, like Roger Podsim and Lisa Ortiz, supported the city’s decision, arguing that the building has long posed a danger and should have been condemned years ago. “Even though that is private property, if it is dangerous for somebody to walk into, it needs to be condemned,” Podsim said.

Business owners also weighed in, pointing to the need for proper documentation and compliance. “I had to comply too,” wrote another business owner. “I didn’t open the doors to my business until I met the requirements. Why should the new owners come and open without following the rules?”

The debate has exposed deep divisions in Yorktown—between preservation and progress, private ownership and public safety, and between those who see the hospital as a liability and those who see it as a lifeline for tourism and identity.

As of now, the city maintains its stance: the building is unsafe, and any event held there is unauthorized. Residents with concerns are encouraged to contact Yorktown City Hall at 361-564-2611.

Whether this moment marks the end of Yorktown Memorial Hospital’s storied legacy or the beginning of a new chapter remains to be seen. What’s clear is that the community is watching—and speaking out.

ALSO READ:  Texas’ Most Haunted Landmark: Yorktown Memorial Hospital – Under New Ownership