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Public hearing on sidewalk inspection and abatement draws property owners' complaints; DPW submits reduced liens list
Summary
At a public hearing on sidewalk inspection and the accelerated abatement program, Public Works said most invoices issued since 2024 had been paid; it submitted revised reports removing one property (514 Visitation Ave) and presented remaining unpaid invoices totaling roughly $23,121 (SERP) and $6,647.20 (accelerated program). Dozens of residents and property owners criticized fines, delays in repairs, and city response.
The Board of Supervisors heard Department of Public Works staff and dozens of residents during a May 12 public hearing on the Sidewalk Inspection and Repair Program (SERP) and the Accelerated Sidewalk Abatement Program.
Wuju Chung of Public Works told the board that between January 2024 and January 2026 the department issued 270 invoices under SERP, of which 244 (90.3%) were paid; 26 unpaid invoices were initially submitted for consideration, but recent payments removed 20 invoices. "The report we are submitting for your consideration has 6 invoices totaling $23,121.28, including the 12% administrative fee," Chung said.
Regarding the accelerated abatement program, Chung said 50 invoices were issued; after recent removals and waivers the department submitted 15 invoices totaling $6,647.20 for board approval. DPW provided a revised report to strike a property at 514 Visitation Avenue with a revised requested amount of $6,204.80 and provided a formal revised report for the clerk.
During public comment, property owners and residents described tripping hazards, long response times, and difficulties working with permitting and inspections. Boris Fudum said his property appeared twice on the list and described long delays and nonresponsive Department of Building Inspection staff while he attempts to build an accessory dwelling unit. Whidia Bettine described a fatal trip and fall on a sidewalk lifted by tree roots and questioned placing maintenance responsibility on private property owners. Other speakers urged leniency, payment plans or city responsibility where tree roots or prior departmental markings had not led to timely repairs.
After outreach and discussions in the hallway with DPW staff, the board accepted the department’s amended reports for items 22 and 24 and adopted the amended lists by roll call (10 ayes recorded). The board also directed property owners to meet with DPW staff in the hallway to seek resolution for individual cases.
The hearing record shows the department is using payment plans and waivers in some cases and that residents continue to raise concerns about communication, timeliness and the fairness of placing repair costs on property owners in cases where the city’s actions (for example, tree planting or incomplete repairs) contributed to the condition.
