Council reviews draft property maintenance code changes to address unsightly buildings; staff to draft ordinance

Derek Tokos, Newport’s community development director, presented a package of proposed changes to the city’s nuisance code intended to incorporate components of the International Property Maintenance Code so community service officers (CSOs) have clearer standards to address unsightly buildings and property conditions.

Tokos emphasized the proposal targets “unsightly” conditions rather than dangerous buildings, which remain under the building official’s authority. He told councilors the draft clarifies definitions (for example, replacing the vague term “junk” with language focused on inoperable motor vehicles and inoperable machinery), moves graffiti into the definitions section, and provides standards for doors, porches, roofs, drains, windows and similar building elements so CSOs can point to specific provisions when seeking voluntary compliance.

The draft includes an emergency-repairs provision allowing short-term coverings or boarding while work is scheduled; Tokos said the proposal borrows from other municipalities and suggested a 90-day limit for temporary measures such as tarps or boarded windows, with enforcement beginning after that period and additional time for voluntary compliance when appropriate. He also described revisions to sanitation and vermin provisions to clarify required corrective actions.

Council discussion addressed how the changes would be applied in the field and sought assurances the approach would not be perceived as “aesthetics policing.” Several councilors urged that the code be applied with sensitivity to residents’ economic circumstances and recommended reporting back after implementation to assess how CSOs use the new tools. On graffiti, councilors confirmed permitted mural art is handled under the sign code and would not be treated as illicit graffiti.

There was broad agreement to proceed: Tokos said, if the council directs him to move forward, staff will place the language in ordinance format for a future public hearing and potential adoption. No formal motion or roll-call vote occurred during the discussion; councilors asked that the ordinance and future notices emphasize neighborhood livability and public safety and that staff monitor implementation outcomes.