Neighbors secure area when owner won't

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - West side residents say a long vacant nursing home is putting the neighborhood at risk.

On Tuesday, they took matters into their own hands. Members of the Columbus Park and Prospect Hill Neighborhood Associations used their own locks to secure a fence that runs around the vacant Episcopal Church Home property. They say they were forced to take action when the property's owners failed to address their concerns.

Columbus Park Neighborhood Association President Kathy Mecca said, "We just think it's an irresponsible way for a multimillion dollar corporation to behave. We don't want it to become a danger to the neighbors who live very close by."

The Episcopal Church Home Affiliates owns the property, which also includes the historic Hutchinson Chapel. Neighbors say they'll turn the keys over to a housing court judge.