Full Breakdown
Bangor's Legal Action Against Vacant Property Owners Amid Housing Crisis
8/21/2025, 6:19:40 PM
Overview of the Legal Action
The city of Bangor, Maine, has initiated lawsuits against two property owners for failing to register their vacant homes, a move aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis in the area. The lawsuits, filed in Bangor District Court, target Patricia Jordan Thomas and Allen Messervey, who represent the estate of his late mother, Sontrud Messervey. The city alleges that both owners neglected to obtain the necessary vacant building registration permits, failed to pay associated fees, and did not arrange for required city inspections.
Background on the Housing Crisis
Bangor has been grappling with a housing crisis characterized by a shortage of available homes. In 2023, the city doubled the permit fee for its vacant buildings ordinance to incentivize property owners to either occupy or maintain their vacant properties. As of August 2025, Bangor has identified 76 properties that remain unregistered, contributing to the city's efforts to manage and reduce the number of unused buildings.
Details of the Lawsuits
The lawsuit against Patricia Jordan Thomas was filed on July 31, 2025, while the action against Allen Messervey was initiated on August 11, 2025. Both owners were notified of their registration obligations multiple times prior to the lawsuits. The city seeks to enforce compliance within 20 days and has the authority to impose fines ranging from $100 to $5,000 for each day a property remains unregistered after notification.
Community Impact and Local Perspectives
The vacant properties have raised concerns among neighbors regarding safety and maintenance. Harold Day, a neighbor to Messervey's property, expressed frustration over the lack of action regarding the overgrown condition of the house, which has been vacant since 2013. Day has taken it upon himself to maintain the lawn to mitigate rodent issues, highlighting the community's struggle with the consequences of unmaintained properties.
Official Statements & Responses
City spokesperson David Warren emphasized the importance of registering vacant buildings, stating that it allows the city to track properties and ensures there is a contact person for safety or maintenance issues. The city aims to encourage property owners to take responsibility for their vacant homes as part of a broader strategy to alleviate the housing shortage.
Criticism & Opposition
While the city’s actions aim to address the housing crisis, some community members may view the lawsuits as punitive rather than constructive. Critics argue that the focus should also be on providing support and resources to property owners to help them manage their vacant properties effectively.
What's Next
The outcome of these lawsuits may set a precedent for how Bangor handles vacant properties in the future. As the city continues to navigate its housing crisis, further legal actions against other property owners may follow if compliance with registration requirements does not improve.
Conclusion
Bangor's legal actions against property owners failing to register vacant homes reflect the city's commitment to addressing its housing crisis. By enforcing compliance with local ordinances, Bangor aims to reduce the number of unmaintained properties and encourage responsible ownership, ultimately contributing to a more stable housing environment for its residents.
