Ohio neighbors say mayor's abandoned-property pledge left them 'on the back burner'

In one part of West Dayton, Ohio, residents have said neglect has become impossible to ignore. 

Vacant buildings, unchecked grass, and debris left behind after demolition still mark the area, despite indications that it would be addressed.

For people who live nearby, the problem goes well beyond appearance. Residents said it affects safety, dignity, and whether their community is being treated as worthy of care and protection.

Here's what to know

According to WHIO-TV, residents on Second Street in West Dayton said their neighborhood is still dealing with abandoned properties and debris. Those conditions remain even though Dayton Mayor Shenise Turner-Sloss had indicated during her neighborhood walk campaign that the city would take care of the issue.

Stan Allen, a Dayton resident, said he raised the matter with both city officials and the mayor after a walk-through of the neighborhood. Residents also said one abandoned house was torn down, but debris from the demolition was not completely cleared away.

Neighbors said the problem extends far beyond a single debris pile. They described abandoned buildings, tall grass, and ongoing neglect that they say has lasted for more than 40 years.

More background

Twanda Allen, another Dayton resident, said the neighborhood once looked very different. She told News Center 7 that the area used to have businesses and well-kept homes, highlighting how much conditions have changed.

"It's very frustrating," Allen told WHIO. "The city hasn't cut the grass."

What's being done?

So far, the main step residents can point to is the mayor's promise to address the issue. WHIO reported that it had not yet received a response from Mayor Shenise Turner-Sloss about the debris pile.

That leaves residents in a familiar position of just documenting the problem, speaking out publicly, and hoping the attention leads to action.

As neighbors wait for a response, their frustration remains tied to daily life and unmet expectations. 

As Stan Allen put it: "I've talked to the city and the mayor. They did a walk-through this neighborhood, and they said they would get to it. It's been three months. So, I'm thinking I'm on the back burner again."

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