The Department of Public Works (DPW) is ramping up efforts to clear out derelict buildings that have not responded to citations and notices of violations.

DPW Director Vince Arriola told the Islandwide Beautification Task Force during a recent meeting the agency will take action soon on two buildings: the former Radhi’s fabric shop in Anigua and the old Sherwood Hotel in Tumon.

Arriola said, “We’ve noticed them for the condition of their buildings. So the actual increase in ramping up for their violation is the law allows DPW to basically do what they need to do, in other words fence the property if need be, board up the building and put a lien on the building for whatever expenses we may do.”

The agency is looking to ensure the public’s safety even if that means cleaning up the buildings themselves. At least within the parameters of Guam law.

“We’re just putting our paperwork together to make sure that we do our due diligence and we do this all legally before we set foot on the property. But clearly, especially at the Radhi’s building, it's been a residence for homeless folks and it's also become a health hazard,” Arriola added.

A health and safety hazard to the community which often becomes a hot spot for trouble.

He continued, “I’ve spoken to an owner of a home directly behind [Radhi’s] and she’s had so many complaints there. So I think we’re at a stage now where we ramp up our efforts past our notice of violations.”

Arriola noted there are “a lot” of derelict buildings on Guam.

Part of the reason is when the original owners have passed on and the property becomes stuck in probate.

He said, “So nobody wants to move on it or nobody can move on it. But that’s besides the point. We have a building that’s unhealthy, that’s dirty, it’s not acceptable within the neighborhood. So if we have to go in there and fence it up, board it up, and clean it up ourselves, that’s what we’ll do.”

Arriola also recently identified a couple buildings along Route 16 that look to be abandoned.

Inspectors will be checking those out in the coming days.