Leslie Mitchell urges action on Apple Valley community cleanup efforts

The Special Called Meeting of the Augusta Committee took place on May 1, 2025, focusing on community concerns and proposed amendments to local ordinances. The meeting began with a presentation from Leslie Mitchell, a resident of the Apple Valley subdivision, who expressed her frustrations regarding ongoing issues with property maintenance and code enforcement in her neighborhood.

Mitchell highlighted that it had been ten months since a significant code enforcement initiative in Apple Valley, which involved multiple city officials addressing properties in disrepair. She pointed out specific examples, including a neighbor's home with overgrown grass and ongoing construction that had not progressed for two years. Mitchell urged the committee to take action, stating, “Let’s stop talking about it and let’s start doing something about it.” She emphasized the need for a focused cleanup effort in Apple Valley, where she has raised her family and continues to live.

In response, Director Delaney provided an update on the code enforcement efforts in the area. She reported that after the initial canvassing, 158 cases of property violations were identified, with 120 cases now resolved. However, 31 cases remain unresolved, and some properties are being pursued through the court system. Delaney acknowledged the ongoing challenges, particularly with property maintenance, and assured that the city is committed to addressing these issues.

The meeting then transitioned to the second agenda item, which involved discussions on amending the appeals process of the Historic Preservation Ordinance. Director Delaney outlined three key areas for consideration: the timing of appeals, the intimidation some applicants feel during the process, and the need for clear post-demolition plans for historic properties. The committee discussed the potential for appeals to go to the Historic Preservation Commission before mediation, as well as the importance of having a structured plan for properties that are demolished to prevent issues such as vagrancy.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's ongoing efforts to improve community standards in Apple Valley and the need for clarity in the historic preservation process. The committee plans to continue addressing these issues in future meetings, with a focus on actionable solutions for residents.