Village residents are poised in a collective ‘cringe’ as authorities begin rehabilitating the largest apartment building on Main Street Wellsville, 52 North Main. Last week when responding to a building code issue, Village of Wellsville Code Enforcement Officer Rich Wenslow encountered what was described as a “intense bedbug infestation”.
All building residents were forced to leave the property and find temporary housing. The building sits directly to a church, a community garden, and multiple restaurants. Many locals question the risk of the infestation spreading and what mitigation efforts have been put in place. When asked, Mr. Wenslow about the buildings furnishings he had this to say:
“I can’t speak for all but it is my belief that most were encased, destroyed, or treated prior to leaving. I know that the building manager was and is very conscientious about stopping the spread. “
The bedbugs could be the least of the problems that need to be remedied before residents can return. Wenslow indicated that he is working creating a list of major issues:
” At this time we do not have a complete list of deficiencies… Ending the infestation is only the first step in corrective action…. He(building manager) also has great interest in the appearance of the storefronts. No reputable business would move into that building in the shape it is. “
Look for more updates on this story and for those who are concerned about the future of this iconic building Wenslow offered encouraging words.
“This will be a continuing issue for the next year and beyond. …… we have no intention of letting another building go the way of the Fassett House.“
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