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Resident alleges building inspector harassed elderly homeowner; selectmen promise review and counsel opinion
Summary
Robert Weaver and his sister Joanne Wilson told the board the building inspector repeatedly entered their property and issued tickets without prior written warning; the board said it will consult town counsel, emphasize certified‑mail procedures and review enforcement practices.
During public input, Robert Weaver and his sister Joanne Wilson described a series of enforcement actions by the building commissioner that they say amounted to harassment of the 80‑year‑old homeowner and included on‑site ticketing and visits following a court appearance.
"My name is Robert Weaver. This is my sister, Joanne Wilson... I have a complaint against the building inspector who's been harassing my sister," Weaver said as he described citations, visits and certified mail. The board listened at length: officials acknowledged the resident's frustration, said enforcement must be consistent with town bylaws and that staff will pursue a careful review.
Selectmen said they would ask town counsel to verify what legal authority the building commissioner holds for on‑site inspections and vacant‑property entries, and instructed the office to rely on certified mail and documented warnings when feasible to limit unannounced on‑site contacts. The chair told residents the town will follow up quickly and asked for three days to research the legal questions and report back. The board also indicated staff would seek to withdraw or resolve fines where appropriate and work to avoid repeat in‑person delivery of citations when certified mail is available.
