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Commission seeks workshop on softening code enforcement notices after complaints
Summary
Several commissioners asked staff to schedule a workshop and create clearer courtesy notice language after residents described code notices as aggressive; staff said it will prepare a revised approach and a workshop on code enforcement notices.
Commissioners expressed concern that formal code‑enforcement letters and magistrate notices — commonly described by residents as alarming — were discouraging and sometimes disproportionate. One commissioner described the visual effect of the 'giant pink slip' and asked staff for a cover page or a courtesy notice designed in plain language to reduce anxiety while preserving legal protections.
City staff agreed to work on softened courtesy notice language and to schedule a workshop focused on code enforcement procedures and communication practices. The mayor and others emphasized a mandatory courtesy notice unless there is an immediate health or safety emergency.
Commissioner Mimi May said a more humane approach was needed: "I would probably cry if one of those things was put on my house," she said, arguing for a clearer, less legalistic first notice. Staff said they will propose a draft notice language and bring a workshop date back to the commission.
