Council hears complaints about abandoned houses and RVs as code officer warns workload is rising

Council heard several nuisance-property complaints beyond the Amity Avenue matter, with members pressing for inspections and enforcement at multiple addresses.

Michael Sokolowski told council he has an expanding list of complaints as the season progresses and described two particular concerns: unlicensed recreational vehicles parked on private lots (Guerrera's property) and an empty house on Race Street that neighbors say has been vacant for years and hosts wildlife and animals. “I have SO much on my list now. I can only do so much at a time,” Sokolowski said, noting staffing limits.

Councilman Andrew Butler pressed for more proactive remedies, including fines and possible seizure when owners abandon properties for long periods. Members asked Sokolowski to coordinate on-site inspections with BIU or NEIC and to document conditions. The council also discussed resurrecting a prior idea to advertise for a part‑time zoning officer to handle increased nuisance and permitting work; members said prior recruitment efforts yielded no candidates but supported trying again.

Separately, the tribunal decision in a Caputo case on Moosic Road was referenced; councilman Komensky asked staff to enforce a magistrate's cleanup order and to begin daily fines if the property remains out of compliance.

Council took no new formal enforcement action at the meeting but directed the code officer to prioritize inspections and to report findings at a future meeting.