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City sends 113 letters after snow; committee to revisit enforcement approach for sidewalk clearing
Summary
Code enforcement sent 113 letters and contacted 45 residences after prolonged snow; staff told the committee the current ordinance escalates quickly (minor misdemeanor to first‑degree) and staff will review less‑punitive or more practical enforcement and community assistance options.
City code enforcement followed up after prolonged snow and cold with notices to businesses and residences that failed to clear sidewalks, but staff told the committee the current enforcement pathway is cumbersome and sometimes counterproductive.
"Code Officer Caruso sent 113 letters and made contact with 45 residences," Safety Director Dan Chafin reported, adding that many property owners cited inability to clear sidewalks. The current Ordinance 97.2 allows a first notice (minor misdemeanor) and escalates on repeat offenses to a first‑degree misdemeanor, a level staff said is out of step with practical enforcement and community expectations.
Chafin said staff explored options such as zoning‑style fines, volunteer or contractor lists to assist elderly residents, and targeted outreach with schools or community service groups. Council members shared anecdotes about neighbors and volunteers helping individually and asked staff to bring draft ordinance revisions and program ideas back prior to next winter.
