Farmingville, NY – On August 29, Supervisor Ed Romaine (center), Councilman Kevin LaValle (left) and Councilman Neil Foley (right) were on hand for the demolition of a vacant and abandoned house at 1213 Waverly Avenue in Holtsville. The house was in disrepair due to lack of maintenance after being vacant for nearly 14 years. During that time, the Town issued numerous building code violations to the property owner. The house was demolished by the Town 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, “A house like this one lowers the property values of nearby homes and has a detrimental impact on the neighborhood. I commend Councilmen LaValle and Foley for their efforts to remove this house and I thank the Law and Building Departments for their efforts to clean up neighborhoods throughout Town of Brookhaven.”
Councilman LaValle said, “After 14 years of neglect, it was very satisfying to finally rid the neighborhood of this eyesore. We’ve demolished several Zombie Houses in my district this year and I will continue to work with our Law and Building Departments to move quickly to clean up blighted properties like this.”
Councilman Foley said, “The surrounding residents work hard to maintain their homes and it’s a shame when houses like this negatively impact the property values and quality of life of those who live nearby. This blight is finally gone and I will continue to do everything I can to help clean up neighborhoods and protect the quality of life for the residents in my Council District.”
Division of Public Information - Office of the Supervisor
One Independence Hill
Farmingville, NY 11738
Phone: 631-451-6595