In June, 2024, the Plymouth Independent published a letter from me urging the Select Board to take action to remove the [former] Bert’s restaurant eyesore.
Three months later, in September 2024, I spoke to the Select Board during public comment to urge them again to do the same thing. At that time, I proposed taking the following steps to do so:
- Hold a hearing for the purpose of voting to authorize a complete inspection of the building to determine if the building constitutes a public nuisance under state and municipal law.
- After the inspection, hold a second hearing for the purpose of voting whether the inspection has determined that the building does constitute a public nuisance, and, if so, to order its demolition.
- After the demolition order, seek funding from the Finance Committee for the cost of demolition, the cost of which would become a lien on the property as a matter of law.
Over a year has now passed since my letter, and yet nothing has been done. The continued existence of this building is an insult to both visitors and residents, sending the message that Plymouth lacks the self-respect to remove it.
– Richard M. Serkey