Council weighs moving Code Enforcement into Community Development, flags abatement costs

Council members reviewed a proposed transition of Code Enforcement responsibilities to the Community Development department. Staff and Finance Director Bob Sundberg noted that the move would add up‑front abatement costs as well as increased legal fees and title search expenses that are reflected in the Community Development budget estimates.

Council asked for clearer accounting of those one‑time and ongoing costs to evaluate whether the transfer changes the net budget impact compared with the current structure. No formal action was taken at the workshop; staff were asked to provide itemized cost detail so council can assess operational and fiscal tradeoffs before making a decision.