TOLEDO, Ohio — The long-standing issue of a nuisance home on Havre Street is finally being addressed as the property owner has taken action to clear the piles of trash and debris that have plagued the neighborhood for months.
A large dumpster was delivered to the home to assist with the cleanup, and crews have begun clearing away the mountains of junk that had accumulated on the property. Neighbors have expressed frustration over the unsanitary conditions, which included excessive trash, bugs, and the presence of squatters.
The property’s owner, who lives in Colorado, claims that the home was taken over by squatters. As a result, the property had become a significant eyesore and a source of concern for residents. The homeowner recently notified the City of Toledo’s Division of Code Compliance that the cleanup would take place on Tuesday, signaling the start of the much-needed work.
Frank Welter, Chief Inspector for the City of Toledo Code Compliance, confirmed that the owner is responsible for the cleanup efforts, including the dumpster and the hired cleaning crew. “They should be getting it boarded up as well today or tomorrow,” Welter said. The property had been declared unfit for habitation last week, further emphasizing the urgency of the cleanup.
To ensure safety and prevent any conflict, the city brought along officers to supervise the situation. “It’s unsafe for people to live there for whatever reasons, and we had the cleaning crew on-site to make sure that there wasn’t going to be any confrontation,” Welter explained.
The squatters who had been occupying the home left shortly after authorities arrived, taking with them a moving vehicle filled with their belongings.
The home is currently in housing court, where the owner failed to attend a hearing last week. The case is set to continue next month, with the owner scheduled to appear with legal representation.
While the cleanup is a step in the right direction, it has been a long and difficult process to address the issues at the property. Welter remains hopeful that the efforts will improve the living conditions for nearby residents. “Hopefully, for the neighbors, it means having a happier or safer place to live in,” he said.
This is not the only property in Toledo facing similar challenges. The City of Toledo encourages residents to report nuisance properties to Engage Toledo to ensure that issues are addressed in a timely manner.