City of Utica Takes Decisive, Swift Action to Prevent Disaster at Algonquin Apartments:
Building Condemned, Legal Action Against Owners Underway
UTICA, NY – Ongoing issues triggered a coordinated effort to avert disaster and protect vulnerable residents April 1st. The City of Utica conducted an emergency inspection of the Algonquin Apartments at 1434 Genesee Street on Friday resulting in immediate condemnation and an Unsafe and Unfit for Human Occupancy declaration due to hazardous living conditions.
City Codes Enforcement, the Utica Fire Department, and the Utica Police Department led the inspection mandated by Mayor Galime as an immediate need after multiple resident complaints were submitted and reviewed by the Administration. Code Enforcement was able to gain access to the building with the assistance of a tenant, triggering a rapid multi-agency response.
Joining the City’s departments on-site were:
- Oneida County Department of:
- Social Services,
- Public Health, and,
- Child Protective Services
- People First
- ICAN Street Outreach
- The Rescue Mission
About 20 individuals living in unsafe conditions were found. Multiple residents were relocated Friday, and all building occupants were instructed to evacuate immediately. Support services were provided on-site to assist with housing, health, and pet care needs.
The inspection revealed numerous severe hazards including:
- Dangerous electrical systems requiring immediate condemnation
- Loose needles, rotted walls, broken doors, and missing floorboards
- Chipping paint, human waste in hallways, and garbage throughout
- Various codes violations and conditions unfit for human habitation, which have been cited
The City of Utica is pursuing legal action in New York State Supreme Court. As the City seeks court order to secure the property and remove any remaining occupants, building closure may take place prior.
“Property owners need to get with the program, and frankly, landlords like this take advantage of a vulnerable population who has nowhere else to go. The decision to shut this building down over the course of a coordinated week’s long effort is our only option, and a pro-active approach is absolutely necessary before disaster strikes,” stated Mayor Galime.
The City of Utica remains committed to protecting the dignity, safety, and well-being of all its residents and will continue to take aggressive action against neglectful and irresponsible property management.
