Neighbors oppose rental at 24 Autumn Lane; board gives owner until Jan. 29 to fix issues

Neighbors attending the Town of Babylon Rental Board hearing on Dec. 11 urged the board to withhold or condition a rental permit for 24 Autumn Lane, saying the property has been neglected and that increased parking by tenants has strained the block.

Larry House, who said he has lived on the block for 36 years, told the board he opposed renting the house because "it's not even being taken care of as we speak," and asked what enforcement steps would follow if the owner did not comply. The board replied that a rental permit can be revoked if the owner fails to meet the terms and conditions required by the town.

David Smith, another neighbor, cited growing congestion and encouraged the board to consider parking impacts when evaluating the renewal: "It's getting more congested with cars on both sides," he said, urging the board to "take that in consideration."

Owner Anthony Bonanno, sworn for the record, said he purchased the property in an estate sale, renovated the house, and that the tenant, Jose Rivas, is a long-term employee who will maintain the property. Bonanno acknowledged the items the board listed — replacing or removing the stockade fence, power-washing siding that has mildew, and removing debris — and said he would hire contractors if needed: "We probably could [do the fence], but I'm not going to do it myself. I'll have to hire somebody to do that," he said.

After board members and neighbors questioned the owner about timeline and prior rental activity, the board moved to give the owner time to complete the work. The board approved an extension of the compliance deadline to Jan. 29 and instructed the owner to notify the rental office once repairs are complete so an inspector can verify compliance.