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County staff propose clearer, faster code‑enforcement process and a new abatement fund
Summary
County staff outlined a plan to modernize code enforcement with plain‑language notices, measurable timelines, performance agreements, an abatement fund, and digital case tracking to reduce backlog and speed compliance; the board gave feedback and asked for metrics and the approach to existing caseloads.
County staff presented a multi‑part proposal on May 5 to overhaul Marin’s code enforcement program, aiming to create predictable timeframes, improve communications and add tools for abatement when voluntary compliance fails.
County Executive Derek Johnson and Community Development Director Sarah Jones framed the effort as an attempt to move from a case‑by‑case approach to a more transparent system. Gil Sanchez, supervising code compliance specialist, walked the board through the proposed process flow: assessment and notice of complaint, a correction phase using plain‑language "fix‑it" notices and reasonable timeframes, an active enforcement stage with administrative hearings and performance agreements, and a new, proactive abatement program backed by an abatement fund.
Sanchez said the program currently operates with paper case files and limited staffing; digital tracking, clearer notices and an added senior code compliance specialist were among the proposed investments to reduce backlog and speed closure of cases. He described the goal as increasing voluntary compliance but providing predictable escalation when needed.
Board members pressed for concrete metrics: average days to compliance for different case types, percentage of cases resolved in the correction phase versus cases requiring abatement, and a plan for how existing enforcement cases will be phased into the new system. Supervisors also asked staff to identify how serial violators would be handled and how the county will protect renters who may be affected by enforcement actions.
Staff said some changes can be implemented administratively, while others (such as appeal procedures and certain notice requirements) may need code amendments. The board signaled support for the direction and asked staff to return with timelines, metrics and specifics for existing caseloads.
