SANDUSKY — A northern Ohio city says a 110-year-old crayon factory is a serious safety hazard and wants quick court auction that could tear it down.

The American Crayon building is one of the largest in Sandusky. The plant closed in 2002.

The deteriorating structure failed to sell at a sheriff’s sale on Tuesday, and officials say it’s a threat to squatters who live inside the building and to firefighters who might be called there.

Interim city manager Don Icsman told the Sandusky Register it’s an “emergency” situation.

The building is now in foreclosure. In a legal motion, the city argues that the factory should be demolished if its owners can’t secure it.

Erie County Common Pleas Judge Roger Binette will hear arguments on Feb. 23.