CLARKSBURG, Mass. — The Select Board on Tuesday voted to enforce zoning and health violations on 471 Middle Road. 

 

"The health code does allow for alternative housing, but you have to have proper septic, proper well, proper sewage disposal and proper drinking water," said Health Inspector Valerie Bird of Berkshire Public Health Alliance. "Typically it's six months or seasonal, and they would have to have a permit from the Board of Health. But he hasn't shown any."

 

The board had taken up the property last month because the owner has been living in trailer since the house burned down in 2021. Members had been concerned that the occupant had some place to go and was aware of possible help. 

 

"I think we're probably going to move forward with the process," said member Colton Andrews. 

 

Chair Daniel Haskins agreed, "it'd be different if we saw something being built right now, and we could maybe do an extension on it, but at this point, don't think anything's ever going to be built."

 

Member Seth Anderson asked what the process would and Building Inspector William Meranti said it could be through the building code or through the health department, which would be more immediate. 

 

"These conditions are unsafe for condemning your property. You can no longer stay here," he said, adding the town could use both paths.