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Board orders demolition for 215 Roman Avenue after safety, foundation concerns
Summary
After staff and witnesses described sinking foundations, rotted framing, egress violations and ongoing occupancy despite a notice to vacate, the board found 215 Roman Avenue not feasible to repair and ordered demolition; staff had recommended demolition based on structural failure and safety risks.
Dangerous‑premises officer Cynthia Santana presented photos and a timeline for 215 Roman Avenue, documenting missing skirting, failing pier‑and‑beam supports and unpermitted additions that are separating from the original structure. Santana reported active utilities and egress hazards that pose immediate risks to occupants and first responders.
NHSD housing advocate Lydia Ramiro and community members including Rose Hill of the Government Hill Alliance described outreach attempts and limited program eligibility. Owner Rosendo Maldonado described efforts to make repairs but acknowledged a stop work order and limited resources.
After discussion and public comment — including offers by a neighborhood association to help with cleanup and coordination — the board found the main and accessory structures not feasible to repair at this time and ordered demolition within 30 days (vote recorded on the record). Staff was directed to coordinate logistics and notices with the owner and code officers.
The record includes documentation of prior abatements and an 8‑month hardship period offered earlier; the board’s decision focused on immediate structural risk and the absence of a viable, funded repair plan.
