Brooklyn residents call for action on vacant buildings causing neighborhood issues
BROOKLYN (PIX11) – Some neighbors in Brooklyn have had enough of empty buildings on their block.
They want to bring attention to a problem that's becoming common around the city.
Residents around Fulton Street and Claver Place in Bed-Stuy have restarted their block association.
Patricia Huggins has lived here since 1977. She recently got violations for rats at her place a few doors down.
"You can see them running from the holes down the block. These rats scale buildings. We have people dumping garbage, and then they leave. It's a dangerous space," Huggins said.
She has been sweeping up the sidewalks.
Three empty buildings within a short distance are in focus. They say the places have been empty for years. Two of them have private owners, and a third one is state property.
David Sokolow is helping to coordinate neighbors.
"For us residents, we have to deal with the consequences of it every single day and nothing happening. it has been a long time. People can give up,” Sokolow said.
They had a meeting this week with city officials. They cite instances of loitering and illegal activity.
Building regulations require empty structures to be completely secure and free of trash and pests. Owners are responsible for keeping areas clean, and a state law holds mortgage lenders also responsible.
The city has limited options when taxes are paid, and the property is secure. Health department inspectors can visit properties. The offices of NYC Council Member Chi Osse and State Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest are working with the neighbors.
"We take their concerns very seriously and have been working to coordinate between them and the necessary City agencies to reach a solution to this unacceptable problem. We will continue working with the community and diligent City functionaries until the necessary resources are deployed," wrote a spokesperson for the council member.
The state owns this empty building down the block on Fulton Street. The assembly member has secured funding to demolish it.
"They seem to be listening. We will see what response we get back from them," said Andrea, a neighbor.
The city Department of Housing Preservation and Development has tried to survey and address abandoned properties and buildings that need visible repairs.