Penalty Increases Sought for Negligent Property Owners
MEDIA
RELEASE
For Immediate Release
January 14, 2014
For More Information:
John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798
Mayor Michael B. Coleman is asking City Council to increase
penalties for property owners who ignore orders from code enforcement officers.
Working with City Attorney Richard C. Pfeiffer, Mayor Coleman has proposed
legislation that would increase penalties for violations from a third degree
misdemeanor to a first degree misdemeanor, increase fines and jail time.
“Those whose disregard has led to blight in our
neighborhoods must be held accountable,” Mayor Coleman said. “If they are
unmotivated to take care of their properties by their consciences, perhaps they
will be motivated by the prospect of jail time.”
If approved, sections of Columbus City Code will be changed
to include possible penalty increases from a maximum fine of $500 and 60 days
in jail to a maximum fine of $1,000 and 180 days in jail. Fines and penalties would increase for
businesses from a maximum of $3,000 to a maximum of $5,000.
“We are serious about holding negligent property owners
responsible for their failures to maintain their properties so that our
neighborhoods do not deteriorate and lose their values,” City Attorney Pfeiffer
said.
In addition to city code changes, Mayor Coleman proposed
$596,132 for two new teams of four code enforcement officers taking a more
aggressive approach to code enforcement. These eight new positions will
constitute a new unit that will be proactive in addressing and targeting areas
experiencing the greatest challenges.
“By increasing the penalties, the city will send a clear
message to owners that they will be held accountable for the condition of their
property,” said Councilmember Zach M. Klein. “Dilapidated and unkept properties
are negatively affecting the quality of life of residents in Columbus'
neighborhoods.”
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