Fire Inspector Uncovers Illegal Apartment Amid Safety Concerns

During a recent government meeting, fire inspector Demoya presented evidence regarding an illegal apartment discovered at 1 Front Street, which is primarily classified as a commercial property. The inspection, conducted on March 7, 2024, revealed a residential living space on the second floor, raising concerns about compliance with local zoning laws and safety regulations.

Demoya detailed a series of inspections conducted throughout June and July, noting that no permits had been applied for the modifications observed. The property is owned by Moore Freedom Properties LLC, represented by Tom Moore, who argued that the building's condition had not changed since he purchased it in 2012. Moore claimed that the apartment had not been rented out for several years and that any renovations were minimal, consisting mainly of cosmetic updates.

The city’s fire marshal clarified that the violation was not for the existence of a residential unit above a commercial space but rather for the lack of a permit for any modifications made. The city emphasized that property owners are responsible for ensuring compliance with building codes, regardless of when the property was purchased.

Moore expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the building department regarding necessary permits, stating that he had sought guidance but received no clear answers. The magistrate suggested putting the case on hold to allow for further investigation into the property’s history and any potential permitting issues, with no fines accruing during this period.

In a separate case, a property owner at 1148 Winterberry Drive was able to resolve a violation concerning work done without a permit by presenting an approved permit during the meeting. This case highlighted the ongoing challenges and complexities surrounding code enforcement in the city, as well as the importance of clear communication between property owners and city officials.

The meeting underscored the need for thorough inspections and adherence to regulations to ensure public safety, while also recognizing the difficulties property owners face in navigating the permitting process.