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Holyoke authorizes $155,000 transfer to demolish city‑owned, fire‑damaged building at 115 Newton St.
Summary
The Finance Committee approved a $155,000 transfer to demolish a dangerous city‑owned building at 115 Newton Street after an October fire; the building commissioner said the structure is unstable and demolition can occur in a matter of weeks.
The Holyoke City Finance Committee on Nov. 24 approved a $155,000 transfer to demolish a city‑owned, fire‑damaged building at 115 Newton Street.
Leslie, the building commissioner, said the property (identified in some comments as 111 then clarified to 115 Newton St.) has been deteriorating for years and became especially hazardous after a fire in October. She said the structure is difficult to secure, harbors transient occupants, and presents a safety risk particularly as winter weather approaches. Leslie said she obtained demolition estimates from local vendors and requested the transfer so the city can proceed with demolition within the next few weeks.
Councillor Sullivan noted the city previously had a demolition supervisor position and suggested restoring that role might lower long‑term costs; Leslie and other staff said the revolving fund that typically covers demolitions for private properties is capped (approx. $100,000) and cannot be used for city‑owned properties, requiring a direct city appropriation for this demolition.
The committee moved to approve the transfer and voted to authorize the demolition; Councillors Sullivan, Devine, Givner and Ocasio were recorded as voting yes.
