“I feel like it is our responsibility to make sure we are in compliance with health and safety codes,” began Opal Oliver Code Enforcement Officer, explaining that City Councilmen and citizens have a vested interest in maintaining the well being of their City.
“We are willing to work with residents to get them in compliance.”
With that said, Mrs. Oliver presented a list of five dilapidated properties currently in violation of Fairfield’s health and safety ordinances to be reviewed by the Council during the public hearing Tuesday, July 26, 2016.
She reported that several certified letters have gone out to all known property owners. Following proper procedure, the public hearing was scheduled to allow property owners to address the Council before a second hearing is set.
Of the two property owners present, Vernon Smith was the first to address the Council.
Mr. Smith shared that he inherited the property from his father, and currently lives out of town. He requested additional time to bring his property up to code.
Councilmen granted him thirty days to submit a plan of action, pending further discussion during the next hearing.
Next, Michael Daniels presented a slideshow of completed renovations to his rental properties, and detailed his plan for moving forward.
Mr. Daniels was informed that, as a multi-family dwelling, the property must comply with the International Building Code, using only certified contractors to perform the labor. An official inspection of the property by the City’s building inspector is also required for completion.
Estimating another year until the entire project is finished, Mr. Daniels agreed to a pre-construction meeting with City officials before the ongoing work continues, and will check in every three months, keeping in contact with the inspector as renovations progress.
Following discussion of the remaining three properties, Councilmen granted an additional fifteen days for non-compliant property owners to respond. After that time, clean-up costs will be assessed to discuss possible liens on the properties at the next hearing.
“We have a responsibility to all the citizens of Fairfield,” concluded Councilman Randy Johnson, expressing the Council’s desire to determine the best course of action for everyone involved.
