PLYMOUTH — The Plymouth Common Council tabled Resolution No. 2024-1118, A Resolution of the Common Council of the City of Plymouth to approve the application of Rich-Mons Group LLC for a Commercial Revitalization Rebate Program Grant.
Anthony Collins appeared on behalf of Rich-Mons Group LLC before the Council. He summarized that the building, The Pointe Apartments, is currently shut down.
The application was completed and submitted by Bob Richards, Jr. and Rich-Mons Group LLC to assist with the renovation of the commercial property located at 309 Gibson Street, aka 309 Kingston Road, to completely replace the roof of the building. The request was for $22,000, or 20% of $110,000.
Collins explained that there is more work to be done including plumbing and electrical. He expressed that the repairs are time consuming and costly but they would ultimately like to re-open the apartments.
Councilman Don Ecker expressed concerns that the building was allowed to deteriorate without intervention, noted that inspections should have been initiated by the company and conducted by a reliable maintenance crew, and that it took a report by a resident to alert the City of Plymouth to the condition of the apartments for appropriate intervention to take place. “I’m struggling with the request, I’ll be honest with you. But I also understand the need. But this can’t continue.” He emphasized the importance of proactive landlord accountability. He asked what the plan was moving forward.
Collins confirmed that the goal is to bring the property up to code and pass inspections; he noted that Richards Jr. has had health issues.
Collins indicated that they would like to reopen the building before the first of the year, but there is more work that needs to be done.
Councilman Dave Morrow asked if mold remediation professionals have assessed the building; Collins said the plan is to have an air quality test conducted after everything has been redone. Morrow expressed concern with investing funds in to a project if it won’t be completed to livable standards.
After further discussion Collins repeated that the goal is to bring the property up to code, pass inspections, open it, and eventually sell it noting its value as housing for low-income residents.
Mayor Robert Listenberger summarized the concerns expressed by the Council regarding the vulnerability of a grant funding investment in a project that may not be completed.
Building Inspector Bob Manuwal Jr. has not returned to The Pointe for inspection since some of the repairs to the roof has been made; though he has outlined a specific and actionable plan to bring The Pointe up to standard.
Councilman Randy Longanecker made a motion to table the request until a deeper look can be taken; Ecker seconded. There was no further discussion. The Council unanimously approved the motion to table the request.
Mayor Listenberger informed Collins that the Council tabled it to give more time to make significant improvements.
