News
20 September 2017 Blight and Code Enforcement Blight control and code enforcement are essential as we continue to create the quality of community we strive for in the City of Canton, and I’ve advocated this for years. It’s easy to complain about blight, but the reality is challenging on many levels. Legally, the City cannot invade the privacy of anyone’s home simply because they suspect code violations. Visible, external violations are easier to report and control, but Canton needs a multifaceted and proactive strategy for controlling blight. In my opinion, here are the key tactics that could be implemented to further control blight and move Canton forward. Code Compliance – The city has recently reorganized Code Enforcement as part of our Building Department, and we just hired a third Code Compliance Inspector for a more proactive approach. The first of our newly designed and highly visible Code trucks should be completed today, and our staff will be attending the Georgia Association of Code Enforcement Conference and Educational Classes next week to learn about the best practices in the state. Dumpster Days – Our highly popular Dumpster Days are being expanded and additional sites will be available in all wards. Certified Landlord Program – In addition to holding the owners of blighted rental properties accountable, the City of Canton can also take positive actions to educate and celebrate our landlords who do a good job maintaining and improving their property. Some cities have implemented a Certified Landlord Program that emphasizes cooperation among property owners, residents, community advocates and law enforcement agencies to build stronger neighborhoods. This program includes educational courses on such topics as: • How effective management is used to prevent illegal activity. • The role of the landlord in keeping neighborhoods healthy. • How to screen applicants to attract responsible tenants. • Rental agreement approaches that will strengthen the ability to evict problematic tenants. • Residents’ rights and responsibilities regarding housing in their neighborhoods. • How to make physical improvements to properties which help prevent crime. Such programs demonstrate how cooperation between property owners, residents, community advocates and law enforcement agencies can work together to build healthier neighborhoods, fight drug, gang and other illegal activities. (continued)
Landlord Advisory Board – To inform, create and implement the Certified Landlord Program, I would like to see the City form a Landlord Advisory Board consisting of local rental property owners, community advocates, code compliance personnel and City leaders. In my opinion, any blight control program requires community engagement to be successful. Landlord Recognition – Again, our blight control and code compliance efforts must go beyond the mere aspects of citations, fines and other negative measures. After all, we do have a lot of rental property owners that do a great job maintaining their houses and buildings, and they contribute to the City’s overall health and financial stability. I would like to celebrate and give public recognition to these citizens by creating a Landlord of the Year award to be presented by the Mayor at the State of the City address in January. This positive recognition can inspire all property owners and citizens to keep Canton beautiful. Blight Tax – If all else fails and as a last resort, the City may want to consider a special Blight Tax for the worst and repeat offenders. While I am not a proponent of increased/added taxes, there has to be a financial consequence and incentive when the inaction of repeat offenders has a negative impact on the property values of all taxpayers and the overall reputation of Canton. Many cities and counties have started to walk their talk by adopting a special Blight Tax on rental properties that do not comply with Code. While this last resort punishes the owners/landlords of blighted properties, it also provides a financial Incentive for bringing them up to code. For instance, Cobb County recently adopted a very aggressive Blight Tax plan. To be deemed blighted in Cobb, properties must meet at least two of the following criteria: • Uninhabitable, unsafe or abandoned • Insufficient ventilation, light, air or sanitation • Imminent harm to life or other property • Environmental contamination site • Repeated illegal activity on property • Maintenance below state or county codes • Conducive to ill health, disease • A multi-step inspection process will be used, and primary residences are exempt. Following a court order, taxes on the property increase seven-fold. If it is then brought into compliance, it will be eligible for a .2 mill reduction in taxes for a maximum of two years. I believe this is a drastic, yet fair, program with incentives for improving blighted properties and increasing property values for all. For More Information: GrantForCanton.com Facebook – Grant for Canton Bill.Grant@CantonGA.gov