Braintree Business Owners Who Neglect Properties To Face Fines

BRAINTREE, MA — Commercial and industrial property owners in Braintree who don't take care of their buildings and land will face fines of $300 per day under a new ordinance approved by the Town Council.

The "Anti-Blight Ordinance," was approved at last week's council meeting by a 7-1 vote. The ordinance fines owners who leave windows broken or boarded-up, junk all over their land and who let lawns grow 2 feet-high or more.

Other violations under the proposed ordinance include not addressing fire, wind and graffiti damage, a well as collapsed or missing walls. Property owners have 30 days to correct issues before fines come into play.

The ordinance has the support of the Braintree Chamber of Commerce, thanks to some exemptions for "lawfully operating businesses." Nicole Taub, the chief of staff for Mayor Charles Kokoros, said both the chamber and the council collaborated to create the ordinance.

"This is a real step in the right direction in cleaning up these properties and putting some teeth in enforcement," Taub said.

The lone vote against the ordinance came from District 4 Town Councilor Stephen O'Brien. O'Brien said the ordinance is an example of "government overreach."

While not mentioning Motel 6 by name, O'Brien said the Board of Health's shutdown of the former hotel in 20017 shows existing laws are strong enough to prevent safety issues. According to O'Brien, the council should focus on hazards instead of aesthetics.

Before the proposed ordinance goes on the books, Kokoros will need to approve it.