The Village of Middleburgh may have found a way to fast-track taking ownership of 111 Railroad Avenue—and then demolishing the decrepit and dangerous eyesore.
But first, trustees agreed Monday, they need to find out how much that second part will cost.
Mayor Tim Knight said he learned of a work-around for dealing with blighted properties at a NYCOM conference he attended in Oswego because he knew the topic would be discussed.
If Code Enforcement Officer Rick Fink can certify that the building is abandoned by answering questions that include whether it’s vacant—yes—and if property taxes have been paid on it—no; trustees aren’t even sure who owns the building or whether the company listed on the title even exists—“We have a pretty clear case that it’s an abandoned dwelling,” Mayor Knight said.
The process typically takes four-to six months and would cost an estimated $2,000-$3,000, he said.
The question is what comes next.
There’s state funding available to take down buildings like 111, he said, but it comes with strings that could restrict plans to turn the site into badly-needed off-street parking.
The village could bond the cost, Mayor Knight said; then they could do what they want with it—an option they’re leaning toward.
But first, trustees agreed, they need an estimate of the cost.
The Village Board also agreed to look into the idea of putting 7-8 parking meters on Railroad at an estimated cost of $4,000 and making the road one-way.
Randy Wood, who owns Value Village Liquors on Railroad Avenue, argued in favor of the first idea but against the second.
“I get a ton of complaints from my customers over the lack of parking,” he said, with the few available spots taken up by Main Street business owners or their employees or shoppers who park in them because they’re free and then walk to Main Street.
“I tell people to use my alley” if they’re just making a quick stop at Mike Breen’s law office or the Grooming Depot, Mr. Wood said.
Trustees also discussed making Railroad Avenue one-way with traffic exiting out onto Main Street.
A public hearing on the proposed local law will be held Monday, August 26, 7pm in the Fire Hall.
Trustee Kevin Young, who lives on Railroad, said it’s a safety issue; Railroad is narrow, he said, and when fire trucks head out, traffic often gets backed up onto Main Street.
“It’s only a matter of time,” before something bad happens, he said.
But that’s exactly what will happen if the village make it one-way, Mr. Wood said: traffic will be forced into residential areas as people circle the shop trying to find businesses like his.
The Village Board was divided on the issue; any decision will be based on input from the 26th.
At Mr. Wood’s request, trustees also agreed to get a price on a traffic light for the intersection, something that’s expected to be cost-prohibitive.