MAMAKATING – Ongoing concerns about conditions at Horizons at Wurtsboro Senior Housing once again came before the Town Board last Tuesday night, with residents describing persistent maintenance issues, safety concerns, and a lack of responsiveness from management.

Although he reiterated that the town’s authority in the matter is limited, Supervisor Peter Goodman told the public in his Supervisor’s Report that officials have continued working to push for improvements at the privately owned facility.

Goodman said recent discussions involving New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), property managers, and Ardsley-based Regan Development Corporation have been productive.

“They had a very productive talk,” Goodman said. “There’s been issues that are being addressed and have been addressed.”

He encouraged residents to report concerns through his office so they can be elevated.

“We’re trying really hard to take care of that center,” Goodman added, noting that both Horizons and similar facilities are privately owned, limiting direct municipal control.

During public comment, however, Horizons resident Katherine Novak offered a starkly different account, describing living conditions as “an absolute horror.”

Among her concerns was the heating system in her apartment, which she said has remained cold despite assurances from management.

“The pipes are ice cold. There’s no heat,” Novak said, adding that professionals who have visited her unit believe there may be underlying structural or electrical issues.

She also raised concerns about water damage following a recent leak, claiming management’s explanation did not match the extent of the damage.

Beyond maintenance, Novak pointed to broader quality-of-life issues, including unclean common areas, broken washing machines, and a lack of social activities.

“We need socialization,” Novak said. “That’s very, very important because for me, that’s going to be my last home.”

Novak further alleged lapses in building oversight, including the absence of a janitor and claims of unauthorized occupants residing in a staff unit. She also described disruptive behavior by certain residents, raising safety concerns among tenants, and criticized limited staff accessibility and restrictions on shared facilities.

Goodman acknowledged the concerns and asked Novak to provide a written list so the issues can be formally relayed.

“If you could provide me a list, I will be happy to get this up,” Goodman said.

This isn’t the first time issues about Horizons have come before the Town Board. The Democrat previously reported two months ago when concerned residents brought up complaints about maintenance and management, such as reports of mold, pests, and a burst heating pipe that briefly shut down heat in the building.

At the time, Goodman said state officials were aware of the situation and that the town was coordinating with HCR and local officials to address the issues, even as jurisdiction remained limited due to the property’s private ownership.

“These are our seniors,” Goodman stated in that February meeting. “I’d like to see improvements made where needed.”

Novak closed Tuesday night’s remarks by urging officials to act, noting that many residents are unable to advocate for themselves.

“Please, I’m begging anyone here that hears me and that can help us,” Novak pleaded.