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Resident raises concerns about living conditions in East Andover mobile homes; health officer contacts DHHS
Summary
A resident urged investigation into reported poor living conditions at several East Andover mobile homes operating as a hostel; the town’s Health Officer visited the site and contacted DHHS, and the board discussed licensing options for short-term rentals.
At the Aug. 19 Select Board meeting, resident Candace Casey raised concerns about living conditions at multiple mobile homes in East Andover — specifically 497, 495 A and 495 B — that she said are owned by Marjorie Towne and are being used as a hostel for hikers. Casey, who lives at one of the properties, asked the town to investigate.
Chair Brian Mills told the meeting the town’s Health Officer has visited the properties and has been in contact with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The Health Officer’s complaint report was provided to the Select Board via email. Town Clerk Melinda Averill also reported that a truck camper had been parked in the right-of-way at an AirBnB on Upton Road and that the town could require Victualing and Lodging licensing to collect data on such establishments; the board noted it previously chose not to adopt an AirBnB ordinance.
No enforcement action was announced at the meeting; the Health Officer’s contact with DHHS was reported as the immediate follow-up. The board discussed regulatory options, including the town’s prior practice of requiring Victualing and Lodging licenses and potential warrant language to address short-term rental oversight.
What happens next: Health Officer follow-up with DHHS and potential further action depending on state guidance; the board discussed licensing options that could provide data for future regulation.
