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St. Albans building department explains complaint process, enforcement and focus on problem rental properties
Summary
Building and zoning official Marshall Cheney and Mayor Scott James outlined how residents can report property concerns, the department's approach to compliance, and the city's focus on irresponsible landlords.
Marshall Cheney, the city's building and zoning official, described how residents should report property problems and the department's enforcement steps.
Cheney said the normal process is for the building department to call and then knock and talk with a property owner after a complaint is received. "Usually, when we show up for a complaint or a violation, it's usually we try to call first, knock, talk," Cheney said. Officials said many property owners comply after first contact; repeat noncompliance can lead to multiple violations, court and fines.
Mayor Scott James and Cheney both emphasized that the city intends to pursue landlords who fail to maintain properties. "Most of these properties that are problems are rental properties," Cheney said, and James added the city will go after 'slumlords' who do not maintain property and hurt neighboring property values. Officials encouraged residents to contact the building department to start the process and reminded the public that council meetings (first and third Mondays at 6:30 p.m., Council Chambers, 51 Sixth Avenue) include a public forum where citizens may speak.
Cheney also said that citations are often less costly than allowing violations to continue and that the city prefers voluntary compliance but will pursue court action when needed.
