Discuss Code Enforcement Process

Purpose:
The purpose of this case is to present the current code enforcement process for City Council feedback.

Background:
The current code enforcement process is generally as follows.

1. Complaint received via email, mail, phone, or in person. 
   • Staff inspects property from public road to verify violation.
2. First Notice of Violation mailed within 2 days of inspection (no citation).
   • Repeat offenders receive a $250 citation.
   • Includes appeal option for $250 (moderated by unbiased individual; Police, City Attorney, and Staff meet with Property Owner).
   • A minimum of 14 days is allowed for the violation(s) to be addressed before Staff reinspects.
3. Second Notice of Violation is mailed with a $75 citation (if needed).
   • A minimum of 14 days is allowed for the violation(s) to be addressed before Staff reinspects.
4. Third Notice of Violation is mailed with a $250 citation (if needed).
   • During 14 day waiting period Staff requests City Council authorization to abate any items in violation.
   • A minimum of 14 days is allowed for the violation(s) to be addressed before Staff reinspects.
5. Notice of Abatement is mailed (if needed and if Council authorizes). 
   • Items for potential abatement are listed in the notice. 
   • Staff reinspects from public road after a minimum of 14 days.
   • Staff schedules abatement with contractor(s), if needed.
6. Abatements are conducted with police escorts and contractor(s) abating item(s) in violation
   • Photo evidence is taken of violation(s) and contractor(s) abating the item(s) in violation
   • A letter is left for Property Owner with information on where abated item(s) can be reclaimed. 

City Council cases may be presented at any time during this process, depending on circumstances, but Staff typically waits until after the third Notice of Violation is mailed. 

Extension Policy  
After a violation is cleared, a close out notice is mailed.
 
Examples of the First Notice of Violation and Notice of Abatement are attached. 

Staff anticipates up to 20 minutes will be needed to present this case and respond to questions.  

Staff handles all Code Enforcement cases as part of their regular duties.

Interim Community Development Director Bruce Westby will present.
Senior Planner Chloe McGuire Brigl and Zoning Code Enforcement Officer Bria Raines will be available for questions.

Receive City Council feedback on potential process improvements to the current code enforcement process followed by City Staff.