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Council debates 'squatters' ordinance, seeks data and legal clarification before action
Summary
Council discussed ordinance 25-10 to address long-term unauthorized occupancy. Prosecutorial staff said existing criminal-trespass law typically covers many cases; council members asked for data, clarification of penalties, and information on fiscal impacts before deciding whether to advance the draft.
Wilmington — Councilmembers discussed a proposed ordinance (25-10) that would create a municipal "squatters" offense and a new removal process for people occupying private homes or other property without consent. The workshop discussion highlighted differences between the proposed municipal ordinance and existing Ohio Revised Code criminal-trespass statutes, possible financial impacts on city prosecution, and requests for data.
The ordinance's supporters said the measure is intended to address long-term occupation of property — for example, when a person establishes residence in a…
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