Agenda Packets - 2025/08/04 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Proactive property maintenance programs and inspections are the most effective method of both finding violations and measuring successful outcomes that bring about systematic improvement. Proactive programs begin with completing assessments of neighborhoods and determining what areas of the City have visible signs of deterioration and property conditions. Most often, these are outside yard areas that lack maintenance, trash and garbage accumulation outside, and deteriorated exteriors of homes and buildings. By systematically completing an assessment of conditions in specific neighborhoods staff can identify areas that need attention and develop an action plan for follow up and prioritization by the City Council that is consistent with the City Strategic plan. Strategic Plan Strategy/Goal 2026-28: Establishing priorities for Code Enforcement is consistent with the Vision Statements, "Maintain Effective Housing & Code Enforcement." and ... "a place where residents can live, work, and play safely and show pride in the community" Financial Impact: The 2025 budget for property abatements is $2,000. The proposed 2026 City budget has a $10,000 budget for property abatements. Abatements often are the most serious health/safety violations and currently require City Council authorization via Resolution. However, a summary abatement order is issued by staff and authorizes mowing long grass, garbage removal and corrective action of immediate hazards. Abatement costs are billed to the property where the abatement action occurred and if unpaid are brought to the Council for special assessment to the property taxes. Additional funding will be necessary in the future if the City Council wishes to continue to fund housing fix up and rehab programs to support neighborhood improvement. Recommendation: Staff is seeking direction from the City Council to establish a proactive approach with systematic assessments and measurable outcomes to develop the neighborhood improvement program that solicits community spirit and cooperation to obtain compliance in a consistent, firm and fair approach supporting the value that continues to make Mounds View a Thriving and Desirable Community. Respectfully submitted, �e2"- Jeremiah Anderson Housing/Code Enforcement Inspector Attachment(s): 1. None (PowerPoint presentation at meeting)