During a recent city council meeting, Finance Director Odeta Williams presented an ordinance aimed at levying assessments for delinquent utility invoices, weed mowing charges, and nuisance abatement costs. The ordinance, identified as 13-24, encompasses outstanding charges for water, sewer, garbage, and miscellaneous utility bills from June 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024.

Williams detailed the process for notifying property owners about unpaid assessments, which includes sending final notices and door tags to tenants who have moved within the city. As of the meeting, there were 335 accounts with a total of $54,045.61 outstanding, reflecting a 14% increase in both the number of accounts and the total amount owed compared to the previous year. The deadline for property owners to settle their accounts to avoid assessment is August 26, 2024.

The discussion also covered weed mowing assessments, with 725 invoices sent out for the period from May 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024. Of these, 631 invoices, or 86%, remain unpaid, totaling $139,134.73. This marks an 18% increase in accounts and a staggering 43% increase in outstanding balances from the previous year.

Additionally, the council addressed nuisance abatement and demolition charges, which have seen a dramatic rise. Williams reported that 25 invoices were issued, totaling $38,013,850 in unpaid charges—an astronomical increase of 450% in dollar amounts and 127% in accounts compared to last year. This surge is attributed to multiple demolitions and significant repair costs incurred by the city.

The total assessments across all categories amount to $231,185, with any remaining unpaid balances set to be certified to the county auditor by September 9. The council is expected to approve the ordinance, which aims to address the growing issue of unpaid municipal charges.