The Department of Consumer Protection, responding to numerous resident complaints beginning in 2012, has issued a legal decision and order against Shoreline Trailer Court in Branford, Connecticut for failing to maintain the community in a safe and habitable condition. Specifically, according to branfordpatch, Shoreline was infested with feral cats, rodents, and other vermin as a result of weed overgrowth and overflowing garbage receptacles. The department’s investigation also revealed certain areas in the community were prone to stagnating pools of water, four abandoned homes were contributing to unhealthy conditions, and lack of adequate lighting added to unsafe conditions. Department Commissioner William M. Rubinstein, noting the community owners attempted to comply with the law only after intervention by state and local officials, stated: “This case warrants strong action, not only due to the range of offenses, but also the totality of the circumstances. We are offering Shoreline Trailer Park the opportunity to avoid financial disincentives and license suspension if the necessary full-scale changes are taken to come into full and complete compliance and to prevent future problems.” Shoreline has been ordered to pay $40,000 in civil penalties, with $20,000 held in abeyance until July 1, 2014, and the other $20k similarly held until Oct. 1, 2014. Additionally, MHProNews has learned, the owners are ordered to develop and implement a remediation plan with input from residents, city officials, and the Department of Consumer Protection.

(Photo credit: Google Maps–Shoreline Trailer Court)