Commission debates expanded lien‑amnesty proposal, defers decision for legal review

The commission debated whether to expand the city’s proposed code‑enforcement lien amnesty program and then voted to defer final action so staff and the city attorney can draft safeguards. The manager presented a revised amnesty program intended to mirror prior relief efforts while incorporating best practices from other municipalities.
Commissioner Louis B. Santiago urged broader relief for homeowners on fixed incomes and proposed raising the manager’s maximum discretionary reduction from the draft 75% to 85% for residential cases; commissioners discussed distinguishing business and residential applicants. Vice Mayor Kelly said he preferred a lower cap (he suggested 50%) to avoid perceived giveaways to investors who might flip properties after receiving large discounts.
City manager and legal staff said they would research options to protect the city — including whether amnesty participants could be required not to sell the property for a set period or to repay discounts if the property is sold. The commission voted 5‑0 to defer the ordinance so attorneys can examine whether a sale‑restriction or other covenant is legally permissible and how it would be enforced. The manager said the item will return at the next regular meeting with recommended legal language and an implementation plan.
Speakers included the city manager, Commissioner Santiago, Vice Mayor Kelly and the city attorney.