Van Buren officials have passed a local law, which requires owners of industry properties to adhere to property maintenance laws.

According to Supervisor Claude Sykes, the law is for properties “that have not been maintaining their property to a condition you would want to live next to.” He continued to describe conditions such as high grass resulting in the attraction of rodents, foxes and coyotes, adding residents have complained saying they don’t want to let their kids outside near these properties for fear of rabid animals.

Councilor Mary Frances Sabin added she has had residents approach her with concerns about the maintenance of the Syroco property, specifically.

The new law provides the town’s codes enforcement officer a mechanism to address the issue.