Chula adopts ordinance to join regional code-enforcement program, allocates $2,000

The Chula Board of Aldermen voted 2-0 on Jan. 15 to adopt Ordinance 2024-01, authorizing the city to enter a memorandum of understanding with the Green Hills Regional Planning Commission for code enforcement services. Alderman Benny Simpson moved to accept the bill as an ordinance; Alderman Randy Hamilton seconded. The roll call vote recorded both Simpson and Hamilton as voting yes.

The ordinance was introduced as Bill Number 2024-01-01-2024 and was read by title before final adoption. Council members said the city would concentrate early enforcement efforts on visible nuisance issues, specifically tall weeds and grass, and a short list of problem properties including lots in the flats on Lee Street, an old blue trailer, storage units, the Miller House, parcels across from Ann Oertwig’s property, and the lot opposite the school building.

Separately, the board voted 2-0 to place $2,000 in the municipal budget to support code-enforcement participation. Alderman Randy Hamilton moved for the allocation and Alderman Benny Simpson seconded. The motion carried without recorded opposition.

City Clerk Ann Hamilton recorded that a copy of the adopted ordinance is attached to the meeting minutes.

The action brings Chula into a regional enforcement arrangement intended to help the city address property-maintenance violations it identified during discussion. The board did not specify an implementation timeline in the meeting minutes; the city will proceed under the terms of the MOU attached to the ordinance.

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Feb. 12, 2024, when any follow-up steps or implementation questions could appear on a future agenda.