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Residents press township on blighted properties; staff cites court hurdles and plans new code-enforcement hire
Summary
Citizens raised multiple blight complaints — including 613 West Sheltonham with a large dumpster and a partially demolished Willow property — while staff said citations and court actions are underway, the owner is unresponsive, a sheriff-sale listing shows $635,000, removal could cost about $60,000–$65,000, and the township will add a new code enforcement officer July 6.
Multiple residents used the committee’s citizens forum to press township staff about blighted properties and planting problems in new developments.
Jamie Woodyard asked for an update on 613 West Sheltonham, a property with a large red dumpster. Mr. Lynch said the township has issued citations, sent letters through the solicitor’s office, and performed some cleanups, but the owner has not been responsive to the court. Mr. Lynch said the property is listed for sheriff sale with a current listing price of $635,000 and that the township has placed liens for cleanup costs. "Working through the solicitor's office, letters have been sent to the owners ... the court has issued their letters to the owner ... it's my understanding right now, the owner is not responding to the courts," Lynch said.
Woodyard also raised concerns about dying trees and improper planting at Ashbor Meadows. Allison said staff is compiling a punch list for close-out work and will work with the developer to ensure landscaping is completed according to plan.
Residents also raised a long-running nuisance property on Willow where the house was demolished but rubble remains. Mr. Lynch said the contractor began demolition work but stopped when payment issues arose and then sued the owner; the contractor left debris on site. Mr. Lynch estimated full removal and grading of that site would cost roughly $60,000–$65,000. Solicitor Diazio said courts are often reluctant to act where service/notice cannot be proved and said staff is exploring alternative notice strategies, such as posting the property, to satisfy court requirements and move enforcement actions forward.
Separately, Mr. Lynch announced that Elizabeth Ellis will start as the township’s new code enforcement officer and fire inspector on Monday, July 6, 2026, a hire staff said should bring relief for enforcement workload. "I'm happy to announce that ... our new code enforcement officer, fire inspector, will be starting on Monday, July 6th. Her name is Elizabeth Ellis," Lynch told the committee.
