Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Code Enforcement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
New code-enforcement review finds 99 properties with issues; commission to consider parking-surface rules
Summary
Staff told the commission a new code-enforcement contractor compiled files on about 99 properties with infractions; commissioners discussed parking on non-hard surfaces and whether to grandfather older properties or change the definition of 'hard surface' to include gravel.
City staff reported that the recently contracted code-enforcement provider delivered a package of property files documenting code concerns on roughly 99 properties. The files are physical and digital; staff said several properties had multiple infractions. Commissioners discussed one frequently cited issue: vehicles parked on surfaces other than those defined in the city code as “hard surface.”
Under current code language quoted in the packet, “hard surface” is defined only as concrete or blacktop. Commissioners discussed whether to allow gravel as an acceptable hard surface or to create a grandfathering approach for older properties developed before modern standards. Staff noted that a blanket enforcement without nuance could create hardship in older neighborhoods where driveways and garages were never constructed to current standards.
Commissioners directed staff to place the parking-surface issue on a future agenda so the public can weigh in and the commission can consider options that might include: (1) amending the code to include gravel, (2) establishing a grandfathered exemption for pre-existing properties, or (3) drafting phased enforcement that allows property owners time to comply.
The report also noted communications-equipment and livestreaming improvements: the city’s service provider upgraded equipment in the meeting building and staff reported the upgrades reduced signal drops observed in prior testing.
No formal policy changes or enforcement actions were adopted at this meeting; the commission asked staff to prepare an agenda item with options and seek public input before any enforcement changes are finalized.
