Hightower Homes - Is An End In Sight?

By Maureen Rossi

Eyesores, rodent infested, ugly and unsafe are comments neighbors have used to describe the “Hightower” homes located at 77 and 81 Main Street in Kings Park. For years neighbors pleaded with Smithtown’s Town Board to do something to help them with the dangerous, deteriorating properties. 

After years of complaints the board took action earlier this year and it looked as though the homes would be demolished.  Enter Jeffrey K. Brown, an attorney in Nassau County, who claimed possession of the buildings and pledged to rehab them and make them habitable. Mr. Brown received the properties as part of a settlement involving the previous owner Frederic Powell who is serving time in federal prison.

In March of this year, the board members reluctantly allowed Mr. Brown time to get the paperwork in order.  Mr. Brown was given a two-week time frame to file site plans, get the necessary building permits and to pay thousands of dollars in building fees. Oversight was to be provided by the town’s building department and Councilman Thomas McCarthy.

Although there isn’t a time frame for the completion of the project, Mr. Brown appears to have kept his word. Visitors to the area can still see a chain link fence cordoning off the area but they also see a dumpster for debris, a bobcat and lots of work taking place.  Walls are being replaced, the property is being cleared windows, doors and outdoor siding is being replaced. 

At a March board meeting, Councilman McCarthy promised to hold Mr. Brown’s feet to the fire.  Apparently, it is working because for the first time in years neighbors are “hopeful” that there is an end in sight.