Water's Edge faces condemnation after failed fire safety repairs

Water's Edge, a property management entity, remains legally bound by unchallenged orders from 2017 and 2022 to address safety concerns at its building located at 364 Ocean Ave. The only aspect of the repair work that Water's Edge contested was the decision to repair the fire pump instead of replacing it, a challenge that was denied by the Fire Prevention Regulations appeals board on August 24, 2023.

The situation at the property has been exacerbated by three fires in April 2023, which the fire department responded to without any reported injuries. Despite these incidents, the city did not initially resort to condemnation following the 2022 order. Instead, Water's Edge had projected an image of progress by engaging an engineering firm and consultants to undertake necessary repairs. The city was familiar with these contractors due to their involvement in remediation efforts at another property owned by Water's Edge.

However, by spring 2023, the facade of progress crumbled as Water's Edge's attorney confirmed that the retained firm and its consultants were withdrawing from the project. Compounding the issue, Water's Edge had not secured any permits to commence the required remediation work, raising further concerns about the safety and viability of the building. The city continues to monitor the situation closely as it navigates the complexities of enforcement and compliance.