Minden reports first administrative court: seven properties cited, fines suspended pending May 18 cleanup

Ashley, the city’s docket clerk, reported the city held its first administrative court on April 20 to enforce property-maintenance standards. The initial docket included seven properties; six owners appeared and one owner did not receive notice.

Ashley said fines ranged from $50 to $400 but were suspended pending compliance. Property owners were ordered to appear on May 18; if a property meets the judge’s standards by 8 a.m. that day the fine will be dismissed. "We're not trying to make money off of this," Ashley said, explaining the aim is neighborhood cleanup and safety.

She listed properties heard on the docket, including 507 Chandler St. (JMSSC Rentals); 315 Summit St. (owner reportedly living in Florida who missed the mailed notice); 907 Claiborne (Robert C. Brinkman); 136 Joanne Lane (Macy Davis Settlement Security Trust); 508 and 504 Constable St. (Willie J. Murray; Curtis Hester); and CN Partners/Chateau Normandy at 1401 Lewis (as entered in the docket).

Ashley described the notice procedure: the city sends certified letters based on tax-assessor records; tenants receive notices but the owner’s name is used for the summons. If a 10-day cure period elapses without demonstrated cleanup, the case is forwarded and the owner must appear in court regardless of whether cleanup is performed after the notice goes out.

Council members asked for a pre-meeting report listing which properties would be on future dockets so they can follow up locally. Ashley said she mails notices roughly 25 days in advance and can email or text the council the docket and property-owner names once notices are sent.

The workshop provided information only; no council vote or formal action was taken on the report. The next administrative court dates were discussed for May and June to hear the ordered appearances.