Sofia Bourbon addresses Hartland village board over nuisance property issues

During the June 23, 2023 Hartland Village Board Meeting, a heated public comment session highlighted ongoing concerns about a nuisance property at 1209 Lisbon Avenue. Resident Sofia Bourbon, who has lived in Hartland for over 15 years, voiced her frustrations regarding the property, which she described as being in disrepair and managed by an absentee landlord.

Bourbon detailed a series of issues, including mold, missing siding, and structural instability, claiming that the home has not been properly maintained for three years. She expressed her distress over the landlord's pets, which she described as aggressive, and recounted incidents where she felt threatened while trying to walk her own dogs. Bourbon has filed multiple complaints with local authorities but feels that her concerns have not been adequately addressed.

In response to her comments, Village Board members acknowledged the situation and indicated that they would involve the building inspector, Scott Hossinger, to assess the property and determine the necessary actions. They emphasized the importance of following up on complaints about nuisance properties and assured Bourbon that they would work to find a resolution.

The discussion underscored the challenges residents face with property maintenance and the complexities of local governance in addressing such issues. The board's commitment to investigating the matter reflects a broader concern for community safety and property standards in Hartland. Further actions are expected as the village officials plan to engage with the building inspector and local police to ensure the situation is handled appropriately.