Bristol council gives first reading to ordinance targeting dangerous structures under Va. Code 15.2-906

The Bristol (Va.) City Council on July 22 gave first reading by caption to Ordinance No. 25-7, an ordinance that would authorize the city to remove, repair or secure structures that endanger public health or safety in accordance with Virginia Code § 15.2-906. “Counsel, this is an ordinance that the state gives us the authority to enact under 15.2-906,” Randy Eads, city staff, told council during the staff report. Eads said the ordinance provides the city an additional enforcement tool to address properties that could endanger residents’ health or safety. Council discussion emphasized that the ordinance is intended for extreme conditions, not minor yard or maintenance issues, and that property owners would receive notice and opportunities to remedy unsafe conditions before the city acts. “This is for the extreme conditions,” one councilmember said, and another noted the ordinance includes “lots of notice” and transparency for property owners. The council voted to accept first reading by caption only. The reading of the ordinance’s caption at the meeting cited Virginia Code section 15.2-906 and indicated the city will use the authority in conjunction with other state code provisions staff referenced. Because this was a first reading, the ordinance is not yet adopted. Staff and council members said the measure is intended to aid neighborhood safety by addressing structures that pose collapse or fire hazards; fines and enforcement provisions were discussed as potential consequences for noncompliance.