Condemned home gets no pardon from board

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September 9, 2010

By Alan Burke Staff Writer The Salem News Thu Sep 09, 2010, 12:09 AM EDT

MARBLEHEAD — The selectmen have closed one of the last escape routes for Wayne Johnson, bringing the wrecking ball closer to his million-dollar home on Bubier Road.

With Johnson looking on, the board voted unanimously not to ask for a Special Town Meeting that could rewrite zoning regulations and undo a decision by the Land Court ordering the destruction or removal of the house after Oct. 4. Members worried that there is not enough time to review the proposed zoning, a fact that could have negative, unintended consequences on other properties.

The petition, Selectman Judy Jacobi said, would change the frontage required. Johnson's neighbor, John Shey, has been battling to have the house removed in an epic court contest lasting 15 years. He complained that the lot is too small and the house blocks his view of the harbor.

Selectmen expressed sympathy for Johnson's plight. "As a frugal old Yankee, I am troubled at taking down that building," Bill Woodfin said.

But each seemed to agree with Jacobi, who said, "To me, it would be irresponsible for the Board of Selectmen to ask the town to make a change without due diligence."

Town Counsel Lisa Mead noted that Johnson's supporters could yet bypass the board by collecting enough names on their petition and getting a justice of the peace to call for a Special Town Meeting.

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