Board orders immediate action at 34 Baltimore Way: five days to file emergency permit for unsafe rear deck

The Abatement Appeals Board on June 17 modified an order of abatement for 34 Baltimore Way to require the property owner to file an emergency permit and either complete work or allow the department to act within five days. Commissioner Lee moved to uphold the abatement with that modification; Commissioner Marr seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

Rosemary, identified in the hearing as the chief housing inspector, told the board that although a building permit was issued in February to legalize a previously constructed bathroom, the two-story rear deck remained in significant disrepair and posed an immediate safety risk to occupants. "I don't believe that additional time should be given because this is unsafe, and it's an occupied structure," Rosemary said, urging the board to require immediate steps or allow the department to pursue emergency measures.

Tenant representative Raquel Fox told the board a household of six lives at the property, including an 8-year-old child, two college students, a disabled adult and a senior, and described the deck as "extremely dangerous." Fox urged immediate action to protect residents.

Commissioners asked whether the department could execute an emergency fix if the owner did not act; staff said an emergency order and subsequent stabilization work were possible and that the department would lien the property for costs. DBI staff estimated an assessment of costs at about $3,500 and said the deck was relatively small and could be rebuilt quickly.

The board's motion required the owner to file an emergency permit and take action within five days; the department will pursue emergency stabilization and lien remedies if the owner fails to comply. The board recorded the action and closed the item.