During a recent government meeting, board members expressed deep concerns regarding the safety and living conditions of tenants in a building facing condemnation due to ongoing code violations. The discussions highlighted the long-standing neglect by the property owner, who has reportedly failed to address issues identified since 2017, leaving residents in precarious situations.

One board member articulated the emotional weight of the decision, acknowledging the difficulty of condemning a property where tenants have been living under unsafe conditions. They emphasized the lack of formal inspections and the inadequate communication from the city regarding the status of repairs, which have not been completed despite numerous warnings. The member underscored the tenants' plight, stating, \"You are victims of the neglect of this property owner,\" and expressed sympathy for their fears regarding fire safety and overall living conditions.

Another board member raised additional health concerns, noting that residents are exposed to mold and poor air quality, which could exacerbate chronic health issues. They stressed the importance of taking decisive action to protect the health and safety of the tenants, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant individuals.

The chair of the board of health reiterated the necessity of the condemnation, framing it as a protective measure for the residents. They assured that the board would work to ensure that the process is handled with dignity and care, emphasizing that the city would not abandon the tenants during this transition. The chair stated, \"This decision was never gonna be easy... but I feel that the condemnation is the only option to make a change happen.\"

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to assist affected families in finding safe housing solutions, highlighting the urgent need for action in light of the ongoing neglect and the potential health hazards faced by the residents.