After Years, Vacated S.I. Residents May Return Home
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Residents of a Staten Island development in Rosebank who were forced to vacate their homes after a storm two years ago could finally be allowed back in early next year. Borough Reporter Amanda filed a follow-up report.More than two-and-a-half years have passed since the retaining wall behind nine waterfront homes in Rosebank collapsed in a vicious storm, forcing residents to evacuate. The displaced residents were allowed back in their homes just once a week ever since, leaving the homes to be looted, vandalized and even filled with squatters.
On Friday, a court hearing gave residents some hope they'll be allowed to go home sometime soon.
"It's a mixed emotion," said resident Steve Kaplan. "You know what, it's a bittersweet victory, but at least the end result will be worthwhile. Will it ever be home again? Probably not.
Department of Buildings officials say residents cannot return until all a $4 million repair project is finished.
The project developer cannot pay, as he is in jail on embezzlement charges in an unrelated case.
Residents say Robert Rampulla, a receiver appointed to get the money together and oversee the repairs, did not get the job done.
A judge began proceedings to remove the receiver Friday, and an agreement was also reached to ensure that the entire homeowners association pays for the repairs.
The owners of the 18 undamaged Waterview Court homes had been resisting that.
The case is due back in court on December 4, and as soon as Rampulla is officially removed as the court-appointed receiver, the remaining repair work can begin.
"If we complete the front portion of the work, such as the completion of the dry wall connections and the road bed connections, and then finish the curb and road bed for the asphalt portions, the homeowners would be allowed to re-enter their homes," said architect Nick Tamborra.
Repair work on the front of the homes should be complete sometime in the early spring, and as soon as the DOB approves it, residents can move back in.
Until permanent repairs are made to the rear retaining wall, the residents will not be allowed to use their balconies, but at least they will be back home.