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Planning board raises drone policy, property cleanup and animal-enforcement concerns
Summary
Board members discussed outstanding lot-split cleanup, the need for a drone policy for property inspections, enforcement of the primary-residence rule and ongoing animal complaints; Building Commissioner Larry Ellis and Solicitor Lambros will research next steps and timelines.
During the March 18 meeting, members of the Village of Valley View Planning Board used the Other Business portion of the agenda to raise several enforcement and policy items.
Member Mike Bertovich reported that an earlier lot split and consolidation request involving a property owned by a Mr. Ezzo remained incomplete despite promises to clean up trash and debris; the board noted prior efforts including dumpsters provided by the Service Department. Bertovich asked the board to press the property owner for compliance.
Bertovich also suggested using drones to inspect properties where Building Commissioner Larry Ellis cannot otherwise enter without permission. Solicitor Dave Lambros said the Village would need a written drone policy and he would check how other municipalities handle legal and privacy issues.
On enforcement, Mr. Ellis reminded the board the municipal ordinance requires dwellings be primary residences and that residents operating businesses from nonprimary residences may be in violation without additional action by the board. He also reported an animal-control case involving horses and goats where prior notices had been sent; under the ordinance the owner would receive successive notices and, if noncompliant, could be required to appear in Garfield Heights Municipal Court. Ellis said he would research timing and next steps.
Member Jerry Piasecki asked the board to consider revising language that defines allowable 'single-family' dwellings to better capture accessory in-law suites that serve family members rather than rental apartments; staff said they could draft clarifying language and a definition of “family” if the board wants to pursue it.
No formal votes were taken on these items; staff were asked to research options and return with recommendations.
