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Gardner council backs starting dangerous‑building process for Merrill Memorial Manor after neighbors’ complaints
Summary
After years of complaints from neighbors, Gardner code enforcement and councilors agreed to consult the city solicitor and begin dangerous‑building proceedings for the long‑vacant Merrill Memorial Manor, while staff also said a draft derelict‑building ordinance is in development.
The Gardner City Council on Sept. 17 directed city code enforcement to consult the city solicitor and begin the city’s dangerous‑building process regarding Merrill Memorial Manor after multiple neighbors described the property as deteriorating and posing safety risks.
Neighbors told the council the former nursing home on Dresden Avenue has been vacant and in “deplorable condition” for years, with falling bricks and an opening in the roof. After listening to residents and a report from the city’s code enforcement officer, councilors agreed to move forward with a more formal legal review and potential action.
Code enforcement officer Chris McNeil told the council the property owner has historically responded to complaints by boarding windows and performing limited maintenance but has not followed through with a redevelopment timeline. McNeil said enforcement options include issuing property‑maintenance citations for specific hazards, pursuing the state’s…
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