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Council adopts resolution of necessity for curb, gutter and sidewalk repairs; city to notify property owners
Summary
Council approved a resolution initiating a special assessment program requiring property owners to repair curbs, gutters and sidewalks in designated areas; engineering staff said owners will be notified by certified mail and offered extensions through May 3.
The Oxford City Council adopted a resolution declaring it necessary to repair and improve curbs, gutters and sidewalks in specified areas and to initiate a special assessment process. City engineering staff described the resolution as the first of four legislative steps required to complete the program.
Engineering staff told council the process notifies property owners by certified mail and gives them 30 days to complete repairs, but noted weather currently prevents immediate work. "We will offer extensions to that for a reasonable period. I believe to May 3," the staff member said. Staff added the city will follow the resolution with a resolution of actual costs and later an assessment ordinance to place charges on property tax bills.
Councilors thanked property owners for partnering on the work and acknowledged the repairs are not insignificant costs for homeowners; one councilor said the new linear routes and clearer lines are an improvement for residents who use the sidewalks. A councilor asked about the white marks observed on curbs; engineering explained those marks identify defective areas and that property owners will receive a deadline in the certified letter and may be able to bundle work to reduce costs.
The resolution was moved, seconded and adopted by voice vote.
Why it matters: the program sets in motion repairs to infrastructure used daily by pedestrians and drivers and establishes a process that can place charges onto property tax bills if owners do not complete repairs themselves.
