Selectboard authorizes cleanup at 10–12 Central after third inspection finds continuing hazards

The Springfield Selectboard on July 20 authorized immediate exterior cleanup at 10–12 Central after a third joint inspection with Vermont Fire Safety found persistent structural, life‑safety and health violations and roughly 11 occupants still on site.

Town Manager Scott Pickup told the board that the inspection was conducted under a February Findings of Fact and a 180‑day compliance order with an August 5, 2026 deadline. Pickup said some progress has been made but “not enough to resolve structural, life‑safety, and health violations,” and staff observed extensive trash and rubbish on the grounds, including needles in refuse, as well as two unregistered, uninspected campers being used for non‑residential activities.

The Selectboard voted 5‑0 to authorize Pickup to secure and place a dumpster on the property, post notices that trash and rubbish will be removed and that personal property must be secured, and to initiate exterior cleanup. Heather Frahm made the motion and Michael Schmitt seconded it.

Pickup said the town is weighing further enforcement options under local ordinance Section 8‑30, including additional repair orders, issuance of a Notice to Vacate, or town‑initiated cleanup with liens to recover costs; those options will be discussed at the board’s Aug. 10 meeting. The town is coordinating with Project Action and service providers to assist relocation and housing for occupants should a Notice to Vacate be issued.

Board member Doug Johnston noted related cleanup needs elsewhere, including residual shed contents tied to another property at Seavers Brook Road, which the town plans to address once contractor invoices and probate steps establish firm cost figures.

The board’s immediate action aims to reduce health and safety risks while preserving options to avoid displacing people to other neighborhoods, Town Manager Pickup said. The board took no vote on vacating the property at this meeting; staff will return with options and cost estimates for any further enforcement.