Mountainside Woods residents tell board inspections allowed unsafe work; ask for clearer certificate-of-occupancy process

At the workshoppublic-comment period, Rich Newman (26 Emerson Terrace) and Diane Smith (35 Emerson Terrace) described multiple construction defects in their neighborhood, recounted a recent house fire across the street that left a family homeless, and said they were paying out-of-pocket for repairs. Newman said appliances failed and an outside electrician tightened loose wiring in his panel; he asked why such issues passed inspection and why certificates of occupancy were issued.

Smith reiterated concerns that homes sold for more than $500,000 had repeated heating, electrical and plumbing problems and asked the board whether the certificate-of-occupancy process could be tightened. Chair said he would bring the complaints to the building department and work to identify a contact person for residents. Board members encouraged residents to provide lists of defects so staff can follow up.