Council approves first reading of expanded vacant-building ordinance with registration and escalating fees

Council held the first reading of a comprehensive amendment to the codified ordinance concerning vacant buildings (Part 17, building and housing code, article 17-59). Staff explained the changes include expanded definitions for "vacant" and "unsecured," a registration requirement within 30 days of a property meeting the vacancy definition, and a revised fee schedule tied to years on the registry.

Under the proposed schedule, properties vacant less than one year would not be charged a fee following inspection and determination of compliance; an inspected property vacant more than one year would incur a $100 fee for the first year, then a cumulative increase (the second year would be $200, etc.). Properties determined to be noncompliant could be charged $500 per year, with further escalations for long-term vacancies (the draft cited $4,000 plus an additional $1,000 per year beyond five years for the most chronic cases). The draft also allows the city to publish a registry of vacant properties, record liens, and pursue physical remediation or demolition when authorized.

Council discussed appeal and waiver procedures; staff said an owner could request a one-time waiver from council and, if granted, the owner could not request another waiver for three years. The ordinance includes an appellate process with a 30-day deadline for the council or designated designee to render a decision.

Council approved the first reading by voice vote, then directed staff to prepare the ordinance language and supporting materials for a subsequent reading and final action.