Crowley Mayor addresses property neglect and enforcement challenges during community meeting

The City of Crowley held a meeting on July 8, 2025, where officials discussed ongoing challenges related to property maintenance and code enforcement. Mayor Lisonbee addressed the council, emphasizing the difficulties faced in managing neglected properties and the need for community support in addressing these issues.

The mayor reported that over the past two months, the city had sent more than 100 certified letters to property owners who failed to maintain their lawns. Many of these letters went unanswered, complicating the legal process required to enforce property maintenance codes. The mayor highlighted the financial burden on the city, noting that while contractors charge $100 an hour for grass cutting, property owners only pay a nominal fee for the certified letters and any associated costs.

Lisonbee pointed out that the city has not collected property taxes on numerous properties for years, leading to a backlog of unpaid taxes. He stressed the importance of revising ordinances to impose fines on code violations, particularly for absentee property owners who may not prioritize the upkeep of their properties. The mayor expressed frustration over properties being used as "lawn services" by owners living out of state or even abroad, which contributes to neighborhood blight.

The discussion also touched on the need for accountability within city departments, as previous administrations lacked oversight and responsiveness to community concerns. Council members acknowledged the challenges of addressing blight and the necessity of hiring qualified personnel to enforce codes effectively.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving property maintenance and neighborhood conditions, while recognizing the long-term effort required to rectify years of neglect. The council aims to implement stricter enforcement measures and engage the community in these efforts moving forward.