I wanted to get some information on abatement programs and how different places handle this. Please give me some information on how you get it funded and how to proceed with adopting a program.

 

Ant,

Your jurisdiction should have an abatement process to follow. It should outline your enforcement methods to perfect Due Process. 

If your jurisdiction does not have this, since it is a relatively new one, they should reach out to other jurisdictions through their legal department.

Agree with Keith, it is important your Legal Team is involved. ON a side note, you could take a look at the City Charter, that may help you in the short term.

We have adopted an nuisance abatement ordinance just funding it is the issue. I’m sure our legal will work that out as Council makes that decision in the end. Let’s pray!

Funding is an issue for most jurisdictions. In speaking with your legal team, they could set a fine system up that could fund a portion of the code enforcement programs, of course a major portion of fines go back into the court system budgets. Another alternative could be that portions of a Blight Tax be applied to offset the code enforcement budget. Making sure you have an effective outlined budget can help with making sure important tasks can be completed within each budget year. And yes, always the end decisions are with the Councils.

I've found that during the process, the associated legal fees are pursued at the expense of the property owner, but the municipal judge decides on whether or not the fees shall be assessed. These fees are generally the title work, legal fees, appraisals, etc. The real expense comes at the time of demolition should a property owner be held in default or not comply with the judge's orders for abatement. I believe there are grants that Cities and Counties can apply for, but I also know some of the funding comes from the jurisdiction itself. There have been some jurisdictions I've worked for that allocate more than others when the community focus is on blight removal.