Staff outlines code‑enforcement intake and compliance process, points residents to OP Cares

Kyle Stevenson described how the community services office handles code enforcement complaints and the path from complaint to compliance.

"So that's where our office receives it. So we generate what we call an inspection or a request. So from there, our officers go out and do an inspection," Stevenson said, walking the committee through the typical steps: onsite evaluation, leaving property maintenance door hangers or brochures as a first step, issuing a letter with findings and a compliance date, and allowing 5–14 days for a property owner to contact staff to request additional time when warranted.

Stevenson stressed a preference for voluntary compliance over immediate fines, explaining that staff will coordinate with other departments and contractors where necessary. He also recommended residents use OP Cares — the city’s service portal now running on the SeqLink Fix platform — to submit complaints directly and track responses.

Committee members raised concerns about elderly residents and resource access; staff said they attempt to connect residents with county resources and grant flexibility for reasonable extensions. Stevenson concluded by encouraging ride-alongs with code officers for council members interested in the operational perspective.

This item was discussed as part of the ordinance MW3522 presentation (special assessments) and the committee used the exchange to better understand how complaints become inspections and how assessments are pursued.