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Corrales council presses ahead on ‘lien and clean’ options as neighborhood concerns mount
Summary
Council staff reported that the long‑running Silva property has regressed after prior cleanups; staff plan contractor quotes and possible lien placement, while counsel cautioned foreclosure to recover costs would be a last resort. Neighbors told the council they still see piles of metal and inoperable vehicles on the site.
Village staff told the council that a longtime nuisance property tied to a Silva family parcel has again reverted, with piles of metal and unpermitted construction returning despite prior cleanup efforts.
Planning administrator Laurie (speaker 16) reported inspections showing unpermitted construction in a building setback, visible piles of junk and evidence that electric service was run without permits. Staff issued a red tag and stop‑work order and directed the building official to obtain contractor quotes for removal and remediation. The administrator said the village will seek assistance from Sandoval County sheriff’s deputies to maintain order during any on‑site cleanup operations.
Village counsel (speaker 18) explained the mechanics: if the village hires a contractor to clean the site, the contractor’s invoice becomes a municipal lien on the property and, if the owner does not pay, the village may foreclose under a municipal‑lien procedure; counsel described that as a “nuclear option” because foreclosure could render the resident homeless. He said the governing body historically has tried to avoid property seizure and often seeks other remedies, including working with family members or arranging sales of other property to satisfy liens.
Neighbors who spoke during the Coral Gagneux forum urged enforcement but said their goal is not to de‑house anyone; they described recurring returns of car panels, inoperable vehicles and an unstable trailer used as storage. One neighbor said the owner had represented he would pursue lawful permits (for auto‑restoration) but the site continues to present safety and aesthetic concerns.
Councilors asked staff whether the existing orders allow periodic inspections; counsel said the village may have inspection language but enforcement ultimately can require lengthy court processes. Staff said they will pursue quotes and return to council with a cost estimate; councilors signaled broad support for firm enforcement while asking staff to seek humane outcomes where possible.
