Oyster Bay Tears Down Abandoned Home That Became Eyesore

Massapequa residents celebrated as a long-abandoned and degrading home in the community was torn down by the Town of Oyster Bay.

The home, located at 510 Clocks Blvd., had been the subject of many legal battles over the years. It was torn down by town highway personnel Wednesday morning.

"The residents of this neighborhood suffered long enough with this dilapidated, unmaintained home," said Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino. "When neighbors came to the town for help, we took immediate action through all possible and legal channels. While this property kept us in the court system for some time, we were proud to finally remove this blight from Clocks Boulevard this morning."

The town's Department of Planning and Development, in partnership with the Town Attorney's Office, received a court decision for the town to first gain legal entry into the dwelling to conduct a structural assessment. Inspections revealed many instances of rotting wood, foundation cracks, deteriorating walls and ceilings, holes in the roof, evidence of animal infestation and other non-maintenance violations. Following inspections, it was determined that the home was structurally unsound and should be demolished. The town received a judicial order to do so and crews mobilized at the property.

Earlier this year, the Oyster Bay Town Board approved a comprehensive package of laws to combat zombie homes and fine property owners and lending institutions in violation of town code. The new legislation further allows the town to recoup costs from the maintenance and demolition of vacant properties.

Photo courtesy Town of Oyster Bay