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Newton City Council tightens code-enforcement rules; one amendment passes 4–2
Summary
On March 16, 2021 the Newton City Council adopted two text amendments to expand code-enforcement tools for abandoned and dilapidated properties and nuisances; one amendment passed unanimously and a related nuisance/junked-vehicle package passed 4–2 after public comment and council discussion.
Newton City Council on March 16 adopted changes to city code intended to strengthen enforcement of minimum housing standards, abandoned-structure rules and nuisance provisions, and to align local regulations with recent state land-use law revisions.
City Attorney John Cilley told the council the changes (Text Amendment 2021-01 and 2021-02) revise Chapter 18 Articles III–V (minimum housing, abandoned structures and non-residential maintenance) and add clearer definitions for terms such as “Unoccupied,” “Board Up” and “Abandoned Structures,” while related provisions address junked motor vehicles (Chapter 54 Article 7), storage visible in public view (Chapter 62) and fines and civil penalties (Chapter 1). Cilley said the amendments also conform City Code to the reorganized state statutory scheme under N.C.G.S. 160D (moved from 160A).
Police Chief Vidal Sipe, representing the Code Enforcement subcommittee, said the changes are intended to allow code officers to more effectively secure and remediate unsafe or blighted properties so they do not threaten nearby residents’ health and safety. He summarized the committee’s review and noted the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the land-use–related amendments that fall under its jurisdiction.
During the public hearing, resident Robert Abernethy asked whether owners must register within 48 hours of boarding up after a house fire and raised concerns about the expense of enclosing lots with multiple vehicles. Chief Sipe confirmed the 48-hour registration requirement and said there is a 60-day window allowing one vehicle to be covered then enclosed; he also said most enforcement would be complaint-driven. Mayor Pro Tem John Stiver asked about prior notice to residents from the Fire Department regarding boarding requirements; City Manager Todd Clark said that administrative procedures would be used and staff would draft letters providing a 30-day grace period.
Council voted to close the public hearing, then approved Text Amendment 2021-01 unanimously. Text Amendment 2021-02, which includes the nuisance and junked-vehicle provisions, was adopted on a 4–2 recorded vote: Council Members Ed Sain, Beverly Danner, Jerry Hodge and Anne Wepner voted in favor; Mayor Pro Tem John Stiver and Council Member Jody Dixon opposed.
Why this matters: Council said the changes aim to speed compliance on properties that pose health or safety risks and to clarify municipal authority under the updated state code. The record shows the city will implement administrative notice procedures and allow a limited grace period for affected property owners.
Next steps: Ordinances, resolutions and related documents are on file in the city clerk’s office; staff said they will prepare implementation letters and follow administrative steps to notify property owners.
