Farmingville, NY – On February 26, Supervisor Ed Romaine (second from right) was joined by (left to right) Councilman Michael Loguercio, Councilman Neil Foley and Councilman Kevin LaValle at 185 Southaven Avenue in Medford to mark the 250th Zombie House demolition during his initiative to clean up neighborhoods across Brookhaven Town. The first demolition occurred in September 2014 when the Supervisor identified his “Dirty Dozen,” 12 vacant or abandoned houses targeted for demolition by the Town that were dangerous eyesores and a detriment to the quality of life in the community.
The 250th demolished house was severely damaged by a fire in 2016 and had become a dangerous nuisance and the source of resident complaints. It was taken down by employees from the Town’s Department of Recycling and Sustainable Materials Management in accordance with Chapter 73 of the Town Code which provides a “fast track” to rid neighborhoods of unsafe structures. The cost of demolition and debris removal is the responsibility of the property owner, and the Town places a lien on the property that is then placed on the tax bill. The County reimburses the Town and then they collect the money from the property owner.
Supervisor Romaine said, “I am proud to mark this as our 250th demolition, but our work is far from being done. There are many more derelict, abandoned houses that are a blight on neighborhoods throughout Brookhaven. I will continue to work with the Town Board to identify houses in each district and get the wheels in motion to remove them.”
Councilman Neil Foley said, “This is another example of the Town of Brookhaven’s commitment to improve the quality of life in every neighborhood. It’s a great day for the residents who have lived with this eyesore over the past few years. I ask that people report vacant and abandoned houses to the Town and we will work to have them demolished.”
Councilman Loguercio said, “It’s important that we continue to demolish houses like this one. They create so many problems, as well as lowering the value of the properties that surround it. Thanks to the Town’s Recycling and Sustainable Materials Management Department and the Law Department for another job well done.”
Councilwoman LaValle said, “This house, like many other zombie houses, was in the middle of a nice neighborhood where people are working hard to raise their families. I am determined to clean up my Council District and I warn negligent property owners that the Town will not tolerate dilapidated and unsafe houses to impact the quality of life of our residents.”
To report a vacant house, go to www.brookhavenny.gov, or call 631-451-TOWN (8696).
Division of Public Information * Office of the Supervisor
One Independence Hill • Farmingville • NY 11738 • Phone 631-451-6595
