Neighbors in a Brighton Beach community say they're frustrated with excess garbage and what they say is an illegal structure on the side of a local market.
The makeshift structure sits on the side of the My Mandarin supermarket in Brighton Beach. City Council member Chaim Deustch tells News 12 that it has been causing issues in the area for nearly two years.
Residents say the structure is a safety hazard because it has collapsed in the past. It appears to be made of wooden boards and a tarp, with part of the roof being held up by string tied to a corner pole.
Neighbors also say that the produce from the market rots and goes moldy, causing a foul smell and a rat problem.
Residents say that it can be difficult to walk at times on the sidewalk because of forklifts driving on it, and they're also displeased with a truck that they say sits in front of the store all day.
A Department of Buildings spokesperson tells News 12 that the owners have been cited multiple times for the illegal use of the side area of the property, and that there is a partial vacate-area order in effect at the side of the building.
The spokesperson issued a statement that said in part, "We are currently working with the community and elected officials to take action and remove this illegal structure. Currently we are reviewing this case to determine whether to pursue enhanced enforcement actions against the owners for their continued noncompliance with our orders."
News 12 reached out to a store manager for comment on the complaints and is awaiting a response.