City Inspections Department targeting blighted buildings

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A Newsletter by the City of Saco, Maine	June, 2009	Return to newsletter index

32 Storer Street before renovations.

32 Storer Street after renovations.

As the economy continues to falter, many cities and towns are finding buildings that have been abandoned by their previous owners due to foreclosure. In some cases, it is difficult to find a responsible party to address problems when they do arise at these abandoned buildings. This is due to the complex manner in which mortgages have been packaged and sold off as investment products to various firms across the country.

In the mean time, these buildings become neglected and run-down due to lack of maintenance. In certain cases where multi-family dwellings are concerned, tenants are left to fend for themselves and many times vacant units are occupied by squatters. Generally this is the beginning of a downward spiral for the building which then becomes blight on the neighborhood. This can have a serious impact on the neighboring properties not only effecting property values but the general quality of life for the residents.

The Code Enforcement Department has embarked on an effort to target and address these buildings as we become aware of them. The goal of this program, which was begun in 2008, is to have these blighted buildings removed or rehabilitated into functional housing for Saco's citizens. This effort is not restricted to residential structures as we have targeted several commercial properties as well. To date, there have been 12 housing units removed (demolished) and 13 units rehabilitated. We are working with the owners of 3 commercial buildings and one single family residence owner to remove or repair their buildings.

If you see or know of buildings that are blighted or are a danger, please contact the Code Enforcement Office and one of our inspectors will be out to check it out.