Chester's license-and-inspections ramps up enforcement: 101 violations in April, dozens of vehicles towed

Andrew Hayman, interim director of the Department of License & Inspections (L&I), told the City Council on April 23 that the department identified 57 violations in March and 101 violations so far in April, including roughly 23 stop-work orders for work conducted without permits. Hayman said the department towed at least 16 abandoned vehicles from city or ceded properties in the past month, compared with 17–18 vehicles identified over the preceding 15 months.

Hayman described a broader cleanup push: new abandoned-vehicle warning stickers will be placed on vehicles citywide and staff will pursue what he described as "low-hanging fruit" first — vehicles that are clearly disabled (flat tires, broken glass, expired registration) or hazards that have been sitting for years. "If you need assistance moving your vehicle, there are instructions on that form of how to contact us," Hayman said, adding his staff will work with residents to avoid improper removals.

Hayman also reported that the city sent notices to rental-property owners with delinquent rental-license and registration fees. He cited a delinquent population of about 5,700 registration items that together represent roughly $1 million in unpaid revenue; staff said the number was falling as payments are processed. Hayman and council members said increased reporting from residents is driving more inspections and enforcement.

Ending: Council members praised the cross-department effort, and officials said the program will continue with coordination among L&I, Police and Public Works. Residents were asked to report violations to help the department identify problem sites more quickly.