ANDOVER — Andover Code Enforcement Officer Tim Johnson asked the Andover select board to adopt a junk yard ordinance. It would give the town more ‘bite and teeth’ in court while facing violators, he said at the March 11 select board meeting.

Johnson brought aerial photos of an East Andover Road home with several junk cars in the yard. The cars are within 250 feet from the Ellis River, “Forever chemicals are leaking into the ground.” said Johnson.

He added because the property owner is hostile, he would like the town to hire the Oxford Sheriff’s department to go with him to inspect the property and talk with him. “This is something I’m not willing to do on my own … I’m not willing to put my life on the line for something like this,” said Johnson.

Select Board Chair Brian Mills said he believed the state’s ordinance was sufficient to enforce the violation. Board member Justin Thacker, however, thought a town ordinance would help build a case and agreed that there are environmental concerns.

“Is the Board willing to go to court to enforce this?” asked Johnson.

“I have some feelings on a junk yard ordinance. Where does it stop?” asked Mills.

“Anything over three junk cars,” said Johnson who added he has received verbal complaints about the property.

Mills responded, “I’m not questioning whether you have had verbal complaints …  no one has come before the select board [with a complaint] in the last six years.”

“All it takes is one complaint,” said Johnson.

“This is going to blow this town up. Enforcing a junk yard ordinance is going to be a huge financial burden,” said Mills.

“How many complaints do you need?” asked Johnson.

“One [written complaint] would be good,” said Mills, who added that the Town would go to court and back the CEO, “to a point.”

Resident Sue Mills said the Town’s sand pile is another safety concern. Her husband asked that they stay focused on the current issue.

“I will move forward,” Johnson said, “I will be very disappointed if the select board doesn’t back me.” Compliance could include daily fines or a lien on the property.

Planning Board Chair Sid Pew said a property maintenance ordinance which would address a broader range of safety issues might be a better option. He clarified that the property owner would be responsible for attorney fees, not the town. The board will discuss their options further at their next meeting.

Andover select board meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Andover Town Hall