RDA approves up to $32,000 in repairs for 590 Salem Avenue pending contractor insurance

The redevelopment authority approved additional repairs at 590 Salem Avenue after contractors discovered holes in floors on multiple levels following a hoarder cleanout.

Staff reported the damage was not detectable until the property was cleaned out and presented a proposal from community partners to repair the holes at a cost between $28,000 and $32,000, not to exceed $32,000. The board moved to approve the additional scope subject to receipt of the contractor’s insurance certificate; the motion was moved, seconded and approved by voice consent.

Staff said the work can be paid from existing Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding tied to the original project. The board recorded that any costs above the $32,000 cap would require written approval before proceeding.

A public commenter noted nearby properties (including 480 Salem Avenue) remain blighted and asked whether the authority could help; staff and board members explained the city’s blight (code enforcement) process is currently paused under the new administration and advised citizens to submit complaints through the city’s permits portal to escalate enforcement.