There’s no decision yet as to the future of the OYO Hotel in Bradford, a little more than a week since an appeals hearing was held with the Board of Health.
The hearing was recorded by a stenographer, who is preparing the transcripts to assist health director John Peterson in reaching a conclusion. No date has been given by which to expect a decision, with officials noting it should be within a week or so.
At issue is whether the facility will keep its rooming license, which was suspended in 2023. The facility was operating on a conditional license in the interim. However, as of last month, that was revoked.
The city hasn’t enforced the revocation while the appeals process has been underway.
On Nov. 21, city attorney Mark Hollenbeck presented multiple witnesses in an hours-long hearing, showing photos of the poor condition present throughout the facility. The heating and electrical systems in the building were both discussed at length, and both considered substandard and unsafe, witnesses said.
The structure itself has major conditional issues as well, with a roof in danger of collapse, and the moulding near the top of the building is broken, deteriorating and in danger of collapse. There are broken or missing windows, walls and ceilings with holes through them and a bug infestation throughout.
While owner Ashok Bhatt of Millstone Investments LLC didn’t attend the hearing, he had facility manager Julie Tipton speak on his behalf. She did not argue about the conditional problems, but asked for more time to vacate the building, explaining some residents would be difficult to rehome.
