Residents push for active code enforcement after complaints of inconsistent enforcement and retaliation

Several residents used the public forum at the May 12 meeting to press the county for more proactive code enforcement and better public education. Speakers described perceived inconsistencies, alleged retaliatory complaints and the burden placed on neighbors to initiate enforcement.

Caroline Campbell described repeated local code disputes and said that residents were being asked to do the county’s enforcement work: "Quit using your residents to facilitate doing your department's jobs," she said, arguing for clearer, more consistent enforcement and public education. Michael Square echoed concerns that a complaint-driven system can be "weaponized" and urged the county to provide certified staff to handle enforcement and paperwork.

Staff described steps already taken: the board has held workshops on active enforcement, and staff said an education rollout is planned for code enforcement best practices. Mr. Arnold said changes would be accompanied by identified funding and that the county has discussed a possible test program for active code enforcement. County attorney and staff reminded residents that state law currently prohibits anonymous complaints, meaning complainant names are public once filed, and that some preemptions limit local code changes in specific policy areas.

The board agreed to make public the planned education schedule on the county website and to continue exploring policy changes, including potential state-level legislative fixes to allow anonymity until adjudication. Staff said any move toward active enforcement would be funded and timed based on board direction.

What’s next: Staff will publish the education plan timeline online and return with funding and implementation details if the board directs a pilot for active code enforcement.