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Port Gardner resident urges Everett to hold landlords accountable for boarded, burned properties near Andy’s Place; council asks staff to follow up
Summary
A Port Gardner resident told the council boarded and burned properties surrounding Andy’s Place and Compass Health present safety hazards; council members and staff said they will route the resident’s photos to code enforcement and consider committee briefings on enforcement options.
Jose Vilas of Port Gardner addressed the Everett City Council during public comment on April 2, asking the city to take stronger action on abandoned, burned and boarded properties he said surround Andy’s Place and Compass Health.
Vilas said the properties draw illicit activity and pose a safety hazard for the neighborhood and for people receiving treatment at nearby facilities. “Some of these properties are up to 4 stories, and they’re basically a liability to the neighborhood because they can be burned up at any time,” he told the council.
What he asked for
Vilas asked the city to reach out to property owners and hold landlords accountable to either repair or demolish the vacant buildings and to clean up litter and trespass problems. He also provided photos to the council in advance and said he hoped for a coordinated city response.
Council and staff response
Jennifer Gregersen and other staff confirmed they had received the photos and that the materials would be routed to the appropriate departments. Council members said police are aware of some of the properties and suggested a potential code‑enforcement path.
Council member Bridal said she would forward email materials to Jennifer Gregersen for situational awareness and invited council members and staff to tour the neighborhood. Bridal and Council member Vogelie, co‑chairs of the Parks and Quality of Life Committee, said the committee is developing policies on crime prevention through environmental design and may present more information in May. Council member Tuohy thanked neighbors for coordinating and said he looks forward to updates from staff.
Context and locations
Vilas identified the area as Port Gardner, District 2, and mentioned Lombard Avenue and nearby streets (First, Second, Fourth and Fifth streets) as areas where boarded and burned vacant properties are concentrated and act as magnets for illegal activity. He said the proximity to Andy’s Place and Compass Health undermines neighborhood confidence when patients see the boarded properties on their way to treatment.
Ending
Staff and council members said they will route the resident’s submitted photos to code enforcement and follow up with the neighborhood. The council did not take a formal action at the April 2 meeting but signaled committee follow-up and staff investigation.
