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Code enforcement hearing addresses Elmwood property violations, trespass concerns
Summary
At a code enforcement hearing the property manager for Elmwood Apartments raised flooding and trespass concerns; staff explained the enforcement timeline, the need for a no-trespass letter for police removal, and that cleanup costs can be assessed back to the property if the city hires a contractor.
Code enforcement presented a docket of properties in violation and addressed Elmwood Apartments specifically. Cecilia Dowell, the Elmwood property manager, said the wooded creek area behind Lawrence Street floods and causes safety issues including snakes; she said she had been notified to attend a hearing and asked what could be done to clear the land.
Code enforcement staff explained the procedural steps: the city will follow standard abatement procedures, put the work out for bids and the low bidder would perform the cleanup; the property owner would be responsible for reimbursement if the city contracts cleanup and could have the cost added as a special assessment. Staff also noted that police can only remove trespassers after a no-trespass letter is filed, which may delay physical cleanup until safety concerns are resolved.
Council members suggested coordination between code enforcement, police and property management; one member observed he believed the encampment was already gone upon inspection but staff cautioned the administrative process still takes time and the hearing will return for adjudication. The hearing record closed for Elmwood with follow-up steps to be scheduled.
