A new task force introduced by Sen. Jeff Klein aims to tackle abandoned properties, including nearly a dozen so-called zombie homes, in Mount Vernon.

Klein dubbed the group the “Nightmare Neighbor Task Force.” The senator says it starts with holding accountable the banks that abandon the properties.

"This is going to provide justice to a community that desperately needs it,” he says.

There are currently six abandoned homes in Mount Vernon that have been foreclosed on, which is costing Mount Vernon over $1 million. Zombie houses are also costing the city about $1.7 million.