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EDA directs staff to inventory abandoned utility boxes after safety concerns
Summary
Members flagged exposed copper and damaged low-voltage utility boxes across the city and directed staff to inventory affected locations, contact utilities, and require repair or removal to reduce hazards.
City commissioners and EDA members raised safety and aesthetic concerns about abandoned or damaged utility boxes in public rights-of-way and directed staff to take action. Speaker 1 introduced the item, saying the installations “look like crap” and noting exposed wiring near areas where children play.
Staff said the issue is a code violation and recommended an inventory to document locations and determine whether boxes should be repaired or removed. Speaker 6 called the equipment “a safety hazard for sure.” The group agreed to direct staff to contact the utility companies, complete the inventory, and pursue remedial action under city code (repair or removal). No formal penalty actions were recorded at this meeting; the motion was a direction to staff to begin enforcement steps and remediation outreach.
Next steps: staff will compile an inventory of affected utility boxes, identify responsible utility companies, and report back with recommended enforcement or remediation steps.
