GAUTIER, Mississippi — The Gautier City Council on Aug. 5 approved an abatement for the property at 2879 Gardendale, following code enforcement staff reports that the owner could not be reached initially and that the house had been occupied by tenants who would not provide identifying information.

Planning Director Scott Enkerson (identified in the meeting as the reporting official) told the council that code enforcement went to the property, used a phone number supplied by a neighbor, found the owner could be reached but learned he was in a rehabilitation facility and not living at the address. Staff said utilities at the property — including water and electricity — had been cut off and that the home had grass and debris needing attention.

Council members discussed alternatives before voting. Several members offered to volunteer to mow the yard and remove small debris if they could reach the owner. Councilman Minor said he would volunteer to cut the grass if the owner gave permission; staff advised that the council could approve the abatement and still avoid fines if the owner authorized voluntary cleanup within the abatement period. Staff explained abatement could be advertised and could result in a lien on the property if the city performs the work. The staff presentation referenced typical abatement penalties discussed in the meeting as around $1,500 or “50%” (council discussion included both figures as examples of costs), and staff said an abatement notice would go into effect for 30 days.

Councilman Jackson moved to approve the abatement; Councilwoman Jamieson seconded. Council members voted to carry the motion. Council directed staff to attempt further contact with the owner and to pursue coordination (including the possibility of an owner‑authorized volunteer cleanup) before proceeding with contractor abatement work.

Background: Staff said tenants at the property had not provided leases and that code enforcement followed required notice procedures and attempted contact by phone and through neighbors; the owner was reached by staff and reported to be in a sub‑acute or rehab facility. Staff said if permission is granted and the owner remedies the condition within the abatement period, fines and liens can be avoided.