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Leaderboard

Popular Content

Showing content with the highest reputation since 03/06/2025 in all areas

  1. Dennis Maidon

    GACE Fall 2025 Conference : September 30 - October 3, 2025 at the Augusta Marriott. Conference registration will open Monday, August 11th (10am) and will close Thursday, September 11th (5pm). The hotel block will also open on August 11th and will be available on a first come, first served basis. GACE (Georgia Association of Code Enforcement) Fall 2025 | UGA Public Service and Outreach Registration System
  2. Dennis Maidon

    until

    Augusta, Ga Conference registration will open Monday, August 11th (10am) and will close Thursday, September 11th (5pm). The hotel block will also open on August 11th and will be available on a first come, first served basis. GACE (Georgia Association of Code Enforcement) Fall 2025 | UGA Public Service and Outreach Registration System
  3. ChrisHataway
    This is an open thought that I need to get off my chest. Lately, Iโ€™ve noticed a growing expectation. Sometimes direct, sometimes implied, that I handle code violations differently based on who the property owner is, what neighborhood itโ€™s in, or how the situation might be perceived politically. I want to be clear: I didnโ€™t take this job to play politics. I took it to enforce the law fairly, objectively, and by the book. I also like to build a positive relationship with the community, but playing politics undermines day to day operations. Our city has adopted ordinances rooted in the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) for a reason, to protect property values, safeguard health and safety, and ensure a consistent standard for everyone. The Georgia Association of Code Enforcement emphasizes impartiality and professionalism in all enforcement actions, regardless of external pressure. Thatโ€™s what builds real trust between the public and city government. When political influence starts creeping into how we apply the code, it creates real problems. If city council members, or anyone in leadership, start making decisions based on personal connections or political agendas instead of ordinance and due process, it sends a message to the public that the rules donโ€™t apply equally. It also sends the message that some people get special treatment, while others get overlooked or targeted. Over time, this erodes community trust and leads to resentment, especially in neighborhoods that already feel ignored or underserved. If we start enforcing the law inconsistently, what exactly are we telling the next officer, the next department head, or the next resident who asks why their complaint wasnโ€™t handled the same way? It undermines the credibility of not just our department, but the city as a whole. And worse, it opens the city up to claims of selective enforcement, discrimination, or even lawsuits. All because we didnโ€™t follow our own rules. Georgia law (O.C.G.A. ยง 36-74-30) is clear: code enforcement is to be handled fairly and without bias. Political agendas donโ€™t change the ordinance. They donโ€™t dictate due process, and they shouldnโ€™t steer how we do our jobs. When that line gets blurred, itโ€™s not just bad policy, itโ€™s a disservice to the entire community. I bring this forward not to stir the pot, but because I believe in the work we do and want to see it done right. If thereโ€™s a change in how weโ€™re expected to operate, or if political concerns are going to take priority over consistent enforcement, I think thatโ€™s a conversation that needs to happen openly. Iโ€™m committed to doing my job with integrity, and I just want to make sure Iโ€™m not being asked to compromise that for the sake of politics.
  4. Ricardo
    Every day there are millions of dedicated and talented individuals who proudly without remorse serve the citizens and local authorities with the enforcement of codes to protect the lives and safety of our communities.I Just want to say Thanks for that service and the support of everyone when we are in the field .Officer safety is very important and very real.Lets continue to reach out in our community and advocate for the protection when we are preforming our duties
  5. Dennis Maidon
    Riverfront Marriott Savannah, Ga March 3 - March 6, 2026 For information, click this URL: GACE (Georgia Association of Code Enforcement) Spring 2026 | UGA Public Service and Outreach Registration System The Brochure, Registration Form and Agenda can be downloaded from the CVIOG site.
  6. Dennis Maidon
    4 points

    Merry Christmas!
  7. Cal Ford
    October is National Code Enforcement Appreciation Month! Thank you to all the Code Enforcement Officers for your hard work and dedication. Your efforts are essential to ensuring our communities remain a safe and healthy place to live. Your professionalism and commitment to public service is greatly appreciated! This is YOUR month and it is well deserved and earned!
  8. Keith C
    Clint, To me, the zoning classification of the property will dictate whether or not they can use the retail space as residential. If your jurisdiction wants to allow this then there needs to me some sort of mixed use classification that the store front can be rezoned to. Hope this helps.
  9. Angel Gray
    3 points
    The City of Albany has a Blight Tax Ordinance. ARTICLE VII. - BLIGHTED PROPERTY Sec. 36-203. - Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: Blighted as applied to a piece of property, means that property is being maintained in a blighted condition. Public officer means the building inspector, code enforcement director, city manager, police officer or any other city official who is authorized by law and this Code to exercise the powers prescribed by this section, or any agent of such officer or officers, or any other employee, officer or officers designated by the city manager for purposes of this section. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(a)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Sec. 36-204. - Blighted condition designation.In order for the property in question to be subject to official identification as blighted and subject to increased taxation, the property must be determined to be: (1)Unfit for human habitation or unfit for commercial, industrial, or business use and not in compliance with applicable codes; or (2)Vacant and being used in connection with the commission of drug crimes; or (3)Constituting an endangerment to the public health or safety as a result of unsanitary or unsafe conditions; and (4)Not a dwelling house, which is being used as the primary residence of one or more persons. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(b)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Sec. 36-205. - Procedure for identification of property as blighted. The procedure for official identification of real property as blighted includes:(1)A request from a public officer or at least five residents of the city charging that any building, structure or property meets criteria described in section 36-204. (2)An investigation or inspection by a public officer and determination that the property in question meets the criteria described in section 36-204. (3)A public officer's issuance of a complaint in rem against the property. The complaint shall state which condition(s) under subsection (2) of this section exist on the property and what steps should be taken to remediate the property. (4)A public officer's causing a summons and a copy of the complaint to be mailed via certified to the owner of the property. The latter is anyone revealed by a certification of title to the real property conducted in accordance with the title standards of the State Bar of Georgia. The summons shall notify the interested parties that a hearing will be held before the municipal court of the city (hereinafter "municipal court") at a date and time certain. Such hearing shall be held not less than 15 days nor more than 45 days after the filing of said complaint. The interested parties shall have the right to file an answer to the complaint and to appear in person or by attorney and offer testimony at the time and place fixed for hearing. (5)If after such notice and hearing, the municipal court determines that the dwelling, building or structure in question meets the criteria in section 36-204, the court shall state in writing findings of fact in support of such determination and shall issue and cause its written findings to be served upon the interested parties that have answered the complaint or appeared at the hearing an order. (6)No property shall be designated as blighted unless the municipal court of Albany enters an order that finds the property in question meets the criteria described in section 36-204(1), (2) or (3). This order constitutes official identification of real property as maintained in a blighted condition. (7)If the municipal court finds that the property is blighted, it shall, in the same order, list what must be done to remove the blighted condition designation, and give the owner a deadline in which to finish the work. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(c)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Sec. 36-206. - Imposition of increased tax rate.Property, which has been officially designated as blighted, shall be subject to an increased rate of city ad valorem taxation equivalent to six times the normal millage rate applied to the property, applied at the time of the issuance of the subsequent tax bill, as provided in Article IX, Section II, Paragraph VII(d). The increased rate continues to be applied to all subsequent tax bills until the property's designation as maintained in a blighted condition is removed as provided in this section. This increased rate of taxation and the official identification of the property as blighted remain with the property if transferred to another owner. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(d)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Sec. 36-207. - Revenue segregated.Revenue collected from increases in rate of ad valorem taxation may be used for community redevelopment purposes. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(e)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Sec. 36-208. - Remediation.The property in question may be rehabilitated at any time through remedial actions or redevelopment that conforms with the municipal court order setting forth what must be done to remove the identification of the property as maintained in a blighted condition. Owner may request removal of the property's designation as blighted from the city manager or from the municipal court upon proper proof, including an inspection by a public officer, that the property has been remediated and now conforms with the court order listing what must be done to remove the identification of the property as blighted. The city manager shall be notified in writing ten days before any hearing in the municipal court. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(f)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Sec. 36-209. - Remediation property tax rate.Property which has had its designation as maintained in a blighted condition removed as provided in this section will become eligible for a decrease in the rate of city ad valorem taxation equivalent to one-half (50 percent) of the millage rate applied to the property, applied at the time of issuance of the subsequent tax bill, as provided by general law. This decreased rate is applied to two years tax bills. (Ord. No. 08-140, ยง 1(16-15(g)), 10-28-2008; Ord. No. 20-106, ยง 1, 5-26-2020) Albany is working to update our Vacant Property Registration Ordinances as well. I will be interested the ones other Jurisdictions have on the books now.
  10. ChrisHataway
    Hey everyone, Iโ€™ve been working quietly on something that I think could be a real game-changer for code enforcement, but before I move any further, I want to get some honest input from the people whoโ€™ll understand it best. Iโ€™ll keep the details limited for now, but hereโ€™s the basic idea: a stand-alone mobile app created specifically for code enforcement officers. Not a repurposed inspection tool, not a vendor add-on, and not another expensive platform. This would be something built from the ground up for the way we actually work in the field. And it wouldnโ€™t matter what software your department uses nowโ€”CityWorks, Tyler, SmartGov, or anything else. The goal is to let you capture what you need in the field and export clean, organized files that can fit into any system youโ€™re already working with. No integrations or special setups required. There would be a free, fully usable version, with two optional low-cost upgrades for anyone who wants additional tools. But the basic functionality would stay available to everyone. Before this gets too far along, I want to hear from other officers: โ€ข What slows you down the most during inspections? โ€ข What would you change about the way you currently document and organize your cases? โ€ข What do you wish your phone could handle better while youโ€™re out there? โ€ข What kind of exports or summaries would make things easier once youโ€™re back at your desk? Iโ€™m trying to make sure this lines up with real needs across the field, not just my own. Any input or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for your feedback โ€” more details to come soon.
  11. Angel Gray
    3 points
    Mark, We are working with CEOSF to host a class in June 11-12, 2026, in Albany, GA. I will ensure to update as the logistics are finalized. Unfortunately, the CEU's would not go toward the Level 1, 2, or 3 received from CVIOG. The trainings do however credit ICC, and POST from what I understand.
  12. Angel Gray
    Members of GACE, We are 132 days away from the 2026 GACE Spring Conference. This is our Annual Conference and will be an election conference. We have three(3) board positions that will be on the ballot. (1st Vice President, 3rd Vice President, and Treasurer). I would like to announce the 2026 Nominating Committee Members who will be working with me to ensure that nominations are received and ballots are prepared, per the requirements of the GACE By-Laws: Tim Maret, Peachtree City Tiffany Maxwell, Byran County Tiffany Davis, Jones County Carlos Munoz, City of Jefferson Cal Ford, City of Tucker Brandi Palmer, City of Augusta Tobie Cartledge, City of Walnut Grove I will provide more information and have nomination forms available online within the next 15 days.
  13. Branan
  14. ChrisHataway
    3 points
    Down here in Thomasville, we donโ€™t currently have a detailed fine schedule broken down by violation type. Our code allows for a maximum fine of up to $1,000 per violation, and if the issue continues, each day can be treated as a separate offense. Our Municipal Court typically sets fines, which can vary based on the nature of the violation and the surrounding circumstances. The judge will also take into account if they are a repeat offender and the timespan of the violation. Although the $1,000 cap is in place, the actual amount assessed is typically at the judgeโ€™s discretion. Let me know if youโ€™d like me to send over the ordinance language or anything else to help with your study.
  15. Keith C
    3 points
    Jamie, Many jurisdictions do have a fine schedule listed in their ordinances. If you folks do not all your local attorney would have to do is do an amendment mentioning what the fine(s) would be if convicted of an ordinance violation. Many jurisdictions use this scale - 1st offense ($250), 2nd ($500), 3rd ($750) and 4th ($1000) and up to 10 days in jail. For the jail part your ordinances must be criminal misdemeanors. This way too a bench warrant can be enacted for failure to appear. One other way some jurisdictions list their fines is - each violation is subject to fines up to $1000 and/or 10 days in jail. Hope this helps. Keith
  16. Sabrena Dorsey
    I believe anyone in any type of enforcement career be it law enforcement or code enforcement has been faced with this challenge. If you treat EVERYONE fairly, regardless of their "status" then you are doing the community right. I've told my supervisor I refuse to allow anyone to "Weaponize Code Enforcement". ;-)
  17. BTodd
    3 points
    Good morning. I am new to GACE. My name is Brad Todd; I am the Chief of Police for both Nahunta Ga Police Department and Homeland Ga Police Department. According to both charters, the Chief of Police is responsible for both police functions and code enforcement. Both have never been involved in code enforcement, and both have figured out they really need code enforcement. With the funding issues small departments face, no one wanted to really take on the code enforcement role, and I have found, you really need code enforcement. I started researching and reading a lot and found this organization. I also found policing has no idea what all goes into code enforcement, and you cannot do the job if you don't know the job. My goal is to get familiar and know the code enforcement role and then get other officers involved. I am excited to be here and learn from all of you. Through research I found Mrs. Joyce Depp with the Brunswick Code Enforcement, and she was very helpful and guided me on what I needed to do to get started. I look forward to learning and being here.
  18. Jimbo57
    Sabrena, If the fuel tanks are above ground storage tanks, then the Fire Marshall office will most likely be the regulating authority. They should have a retaining wall surrounding the tanks that would prevent fuel from escaping in the event of a leak. If the fuel tanks are under ground storage tanks, then the Land Protection folks with EPD will be the regulating authority. Good luck! Jim
  19. ChrisHataway
    Good morning. I wanted to reach out to get some insight into how you all handle their Vacant and Foreclosed Property Registry. We're looking at ways to refine our own process and would really appreciate learning from your approach. A few key things I'm curious about: How does your team enforce the registry requirements? What are the registration fees for vacant or foreclosed properties? Is it a one-time fee or is it collected per quarter? How long can a property stay on the registry before itโ€™s eligible for demolition consideration? My thought is that itโ€™s a way to get these folk to start fixing up these properties around here. It would also help prevent โ€œslum lordsโ€ from just buying at tax sales and doing nothing with them or just throwing tenants into substandard structures. If you have any relevant documents or municipal code references that outline your procedures, that would be incredibly helpful. Iโ€™d love to chat at your convenienceโ€”let me know a good time, or feel free to email over any details. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks in advance for your time!
  20. Dennis Maidon
    September 30 - October 3, 2025 Augusta Marriott Augusta, Georgia Conference registration will open Monday, August 11th (10am) and will close Thursday, September 11th (5pm). The hotel block will also open on August 11th and will be available on a first come, first served basis. GACE (Georgia Association of Code Enforcement) Fall 2025 | UGA Public Service and Outreach Registration System
  21. Clint Williams
    Hello, We have recently encountered situations where business owners are seeking to convert downtown storefront properties into residential apartments. We are evaluating how to address this matter and would like to know if any municipalities have an ordinance in place that restricts or regulates this type of conversion. If so, we would appreciate any information or examples you would be willing to share.
  22. Angel Gray
    Clint, It may be that you all consider an overlay district that provides design guidelines and agree with Keith to consider the Zoning Districts for permitted uses.
  23. ChrisHataway
    I wanted to run something by the group and get some real-world feedback, because I know weโ€™re all dealing with the same kinds of properties. Weโ€™re starting to look at some changes to how we handle long-term noncompliance, especially with vacant houses and out-of-state owners. The biggest issue for us is cases that just sit forever because court is slow and utilities arenโ€™t always an option. Nothing is finalized, but hereโ€™s what weโ€™re kicking around: An administrative civil penalty process that starts only after notice, a compliance deadline, and an opportunity to request a hearing Graduated daily fines if violations keep dragging on (kept well under the statutory max) Treating abatement costs strictly as cost recovery, not punishment Using utility billing to recover abatement costs on occupied properties with active service For vacant or unoccupied properties with no utilities, recording abatement liens and issuing tax executions (fi.fa.) so costs can be collected through the county when owners pay taxes, sell, or refinance Keeping it civil and administrative, with court still available but not the automatic next step The goal isnโ€™t to generate revenue, itโ€™s to get compliance and stop the same properties from costing the city money over and over again. Iโ€™d really like to hear how others are handling this: Are you already using administrative fines? How are you recovering abatement costs? Whatโ€™s actually worked with absentee or out-of-state owners? Anything you tried that you wouldnโ€™t do again? I appreciate any insight. It's always good to hear how other cities are dealing with this stuff. Thanks, Chris
  24. Angel Gray
    GACE Members: I am sharing an email on a training opportunity: I wanted to share a free, upcoming webinar focused on the development and adoption of building codes that may be of interest to you and your team. This session provides a practical roadmap for navigating the International Code Council and offers continuing education credits. The Role of Codes and Standards in Supporting Safe and Resilient Communities Wednesday, February 25 | 12-1 pm ET Shirley Ellis, CBO, Director at Large for the International Code Council, will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the lifecycle of building code development. Sheโ€™ll cover: The differences between codes, standards, and guidelines, and how to ensure proper application in the field. How to navigate the consensus-based ICC development process, from committee roles and public participation to final voting. How to facilitate code adoption across different jurisdictions to maintain public safety. Ways to influence the future of building codes by engaging directly in the development cycle. Participants will earn .10 ICC CEU and 1 ASFPM CEC. Register Please feel free to share it with your team or network as well. Hope you can join us!
  25. Angel Gray
    Greetings, GACE Members: The 2026 Nominating Committee Members are as follows: Mail to: Cal Ford, City of Tucker; Chairperson Tim Maret, Peachtree City Tiffany Maxwell, Bryan County Tiffany Davis, Jones County Carlos Munoz, City of Jefferson Brandi Palmer, City of Augusta Tobie Cartledge, City of Walnut Grove ELIGIBILITY FOR OFFICE (Article IV, Section 2) Each Nominee must meet Active Member requirements: Amendment 1: Section 2: Eligibility for Office: Any active member of G.A.C.E. in good standing and having successfully completed the requirements of Level I prior to nomination and having served on at least one committee appointment shall be eligible for any office, excluding the seat of Association President. Any Active member having successfully completed Level I requirements, having served in a position of the G.A.C.E. Board of Directors for at least one (1) full term, and in good standing, shall be eligible for the office of Association President. Any active member of G.A.C.E. in good standing and having successfully completed the requirements of Level I prior to nomination shall be eligible for any office, excluding the seat of Treasurer. The requirements to meet the eligibility of Treasurer are as follows: Must have accounting/bookkeeping experience. d. Any active member will not be eligible for any office who has: 1) Previously resigned their office voluntarily or involuntarily due to misconduct or inappropriate conduct while serving on the Board of Directors. 2) While under an investigation or, 3) Who has abandoned their office, Definition of Abandonment: failure of an officer to perform his / her duties as determined by the Board of Directors. TERM OF OFFICE: Normal term of office shall be 4 years from the installation of office at the annual meeting. Note: Membership requirements for both Nominee and Nominator: One Form per Nomination: Submit on or before January 4, 2026
  26. Angel Gray
    EventbriteGACE Code Official Safety SpecialistIn-person two day officer safety training for Code Officials in Georgia
  27. Dennis Maidon
    Effective January 1, 2026, a new profile setting was created to allow members to set their Certificate Level. This was due to an inquiry by the GACE president. To access this feature, you simply edit your profile to set you level of certification. Click on your name at the top of the screen, then select "Edit Profile". This will take you to the "Edit Profile" page. Scroll to the bottom of the page and you will see the following. Click on the box below "Certificate Level" and you will then see 3 options: Level I Level II Level III None Currently Click on the Certification level that you have currently obtained. If you have not yet obtained certification, select "None currently". You will then click on the "Save" button. When you or another member views your profile, they will see a box located on the left side of the page entitled "Retained". This will include you "Full Name" and "Certificate Level". Your "Member Title" will also show, if you have completed that block.
  28. Ja_webb2023
    2 points
    Here in LaGrange, my officers start an Nuisance Abatement case on the property. We start off with 72 hr certified letters to the last known addresses of the owners and/or family that we find associated with our investigations. Our city attorney then sends off for a title search of said property. If the certified letters returned unsigned or the property owner does not comply with the 72 hr contact, we then get an administrative search warrant signed by our municipal judge to make entry into the property for documentation and photos. Once the title search comes back, our City attorney completes a summons for court that is mailed to the last address of the owners or interested parties and is posted on the front of the structure. Then we just go through the court proceedings and the judge rules how much time shall be allowed for permits to be pulled, be it full renovation or demolition. After the court ordered deadline, if no permits have been attained, my office condemns and placards the structure for demolition. Usually within 2 weeks its a seeded lot and a lien is placed on the property for the amount of the demo cost. That's pretty standard here in LaGrange. We performed around 15-16 blighted structure demo's this year. Not being able to find or contact the owner or interested parties shouldn't hinder your dept from moving forward with abating a blighted property. Hope this insight helps....
  29. Hunter Lyon
    2 points
    Hey guys! I'm not sure how many of you have attended any of the classes offered from either GMS or CEOSF, but I can tell you from first-hand experience, they both offer great classes with great information! I think anyone in our line of work would benefit from the courses offered through either of these two and they help go toward you CECs. If you haven't taken a look, at either of them, go for it. Build your toolbelt as equipped as possible. For those of you that have attended courses from either of these, I'd like to know your feedback. Y'all take care and stay safe out there!!
  30. DrSmith77
    Hey Chris, The City of Cochran will start the new year with the iWorq program. It will allow multiple people, within the city government, to stay in the loop on each violation I encounter and document. I think this is going to bring simplicity to the administrative duties we have. โ€ข What slows you down the most during inspections? Talking with people(LOL) โ€ข What would you change about the way you currently document and organize your cases? โ€ข What do you wish your phone could handle better while youโ€™re out there? I would like an interactive city limits app that could show me exactly where I'm at when addressing violations. Kind of like Live 360 but with the city limits showing. We have some areas that are close to the city limits but are actually unincorporated. I have searched the playstore and haven't come across anything similar. โ€ข What kind of exports or summaries would make things easier once youโ€™re back at your desk? I think the iWorq program will cover for the other questions.
  31. Angel Gray
  32. Angel Gray
    2 points
  33. Angel Gray

    until

    The GACE Board of Directors will host a Board Meeting on October 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The meetings are open to GACE members. Please use the following link to access the meeting. Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81553277406?pwd=qdcIs1CDkbwl56FHXLdlYsFspSMZ3z.1 Meeting ID: 815 5327 7406 Passcode: 146716 --- One tap mobile +13017158592,,81553277406#,,,,*146716# US (Washington DC) +13052241968,,81553277406#,,,,*146716# US GACE Board of Directors Meeting 10_22_25 .pdf
  34. Alesia Wakefield-Medley
    2 points
  35. Dennis Maidon
    2 points
    Contact Anna Lawrence with CVIOG. She can answer your question. annalawrence@ega.edu
  36. ChrisHataway
    Abandoned Vehicle Enforcement โ€“ Thomasville, GAQuestion Answer What is an abandoned vehicle? A vehicle thatโ€™s been sitting too long without moving, doesnโ€™t run, has no tag, or is wrecked, stripped, or junkedโ€”especially if itโ€™s out in the open. What documentation do you need on the vehicle? Take clear photos and write down the make, model, year, VIN, tag number, where itโ€™s located, what shape itโ€™s in, and how long itโ€™s been sitting there. Information needed? Make/Model, Year, VIN, Tag, Owner (from tag office), Date of notice, and how long itโ€™s been abandoned. How many letters do you send? Usually three if needed. First is a 10-day notice is mailed regular, then a second 10-day notice sent certified mail. If they donโ€™t act after the second, the vehicle has a final 10-day sticker with a copy of the final notice put on it. If no action is taken then a citation can be issued and towing is warranted. (Honestly, most in our area are usually gone before we have to sticker them.) Usually if I have to put a sticker on it they know if they don't move it. I will. Communication is key:) How does the county tag office help? They can tell you who owns the vehicle, if the tag is current, and if thereโ€™s a lien on it. When do you take the case to court? If the owner doesnโ€™t comply or asks for a hearing after getting a final notice. When do you impound, tow, or store the vehicle? After the third 10-day notice runs out and no action is taken, the city can tow it. How long do you need to keep an impounded vehicle? At least 30 days. You also have to notify the owner and any lienholder within 5 business days. When can you sell the vehicle? After 30 days if no one claims it and youโ€™ve followed the required steps for notice. Etc. You can place a lien on the property if the owner wonโ€™t pay removal costs. Owners do have the right to a hearing before action is taken.
  37. Mark Haynes
    2 points
    Chris, The City of Grovetown's fine schedule is as follows: It is declared to be a misdemeanor offense for any owner, agent or tenant to create or have a nuisance. Each day a nuisance is continued shall constitute a separate offense. Following five (5) days after receipt of certified written notice to the property owner, agent or tenant, a citation may be issued by the city. The maximum penalty shall be a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00), imprisonment for six (6) months and probation of twelve (12) months. The penalty for a first violation of this article within five (5) years shall be a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00). The penalty for a second violation of the same provisions of this code by the same owner or tenant during a five-year period shall be a minimum fine of five hundred dollars ($500.00). The penalty for a third or repeat violations of the same provisions of this code by the same owner or tenant during a five-year period shall be a minimum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000.00). Fines may not be stayed, deferred or suspended. The maximum total fine for repeat violations due to a violation continuing over multiple days shall be two thousand dollars ($2,000.00). I hope this helps...
  38. Sailor99
  39. Dennis Maidon
    I It's not just Georgia. I started out as a building inspector in my home county (Johnston County, North Carolina). About 5 years in, I had to place a stop work order on one of our county commissioners for building a huge structure without a building permit and a zoning permit from the town. he had been contacted previously and refused to get the permits. He even said in an open commissioner meeting that it was easier to beg forgiveness than it was to get a permit. He never applied for a permit so, he really had no idea how hard it would be to get a permit. After the Stop Work Order, I was forced to leave my job and move to a job in a neighboring county. All I told them when I left was, "Look in the code book and show me the word 'politics'". My supervisor was also forced out and retired. I told my new supervisor, "You may fire me for doing my job but, you'll never fire me for not doing my job."
  40. Dennis Maidon
    What is a good way to start when you have finally won in Court and it is now your responsibility to remove the junk.
  41. Jerod Wells
    Good morning! I am hoping this finds you all safe and well. I am doing a project to see who all operates under a Code Enforcement Board or has operated under a Code Enforcement Board. I have seen where it has been attempted by a select few jurisdictions but has since been dissolved. I am going to present successes and struggles to our Administration to make an educated decision on whether or not we should attempt to establish such board. Thank y'all!
  42. Dennis Maidon
    GACE has quite a few committees that need volunteers. A list of the GACE committees and a description of their purpose may be found here. If you're interested in helping out with a committee this year, contact one of the Board members and they will set you up. You may also check the committee you are interested in serving on above and a Board member will get back to you. GACE Needs your assistance in 2025
  43. Angel Gray
    HB 483 is in the HOUSE!!! Georgia-2025-HB483-Introduced.pdfLegislative Support GA HB 483 (1).pdf To amend Article 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to assault and battery, so as to provide for protections for inspectors of code enforcement; to provide for definitions; to provide for enhanced penalties for simple assault, aggravated assault, simple battery, battery, and aggravated battery committed upon inspectors of code enforcement in certain circumstances; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes. MEMBERS!!! You are being called to action! Let's get the word out!!! WE Support HB 483!
  44. Angel Gray
    Jared, Great question. See our SOP with the Planning Department.SOP Customer Request for Licensed Contractors.docxSOP example request for contractor listing .docx
  45. Keith C
  46. Angel Gray
    AWESOME-SAUCE!! I appreciate each and everyone of our members who are going above and beyond getting this support out. THANKS NASHVILLE!!!
  47. Loren Williams
    My City Manager spoke with the Governor personally about this Bill, so once it gets through the Senate, it should be good to go! Thanks to everyone that worked toward this Bill.
  48. Mark Haynes
    I would like to thank the Board of Directors for another successful conference. Additionally, I would like to also congratulate the Angel Gray , Joyce Depp, Wayne Dubose, and Pam Nickles for being elected as President, 2nd Vice President, Sgt at Arms, and Secretary. As well as, thanking all the candidates who ran. Looking forward to the 2025 Fall Conference in Augusta..
  49. Angel Gray
    Thank you, Mark, I am glad we spent a few moments here and there just conversing and networking. Keep in touch and know you are so appreciated for the work you do.
  50. Angel Gray

    until

    I look forward to this conference.
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GACE Board of Directors

M. Angel Gray
President
229-272-6411
Russell Moody
1st Vice President
229-873-0691
Joyce Depp
2nd Vice President
912-266-1992
James Lemoine
3rd Vice President
470-261-0697
Wayne Dubose
Sergeant-at-arms
678-598-3564
Pam Nickles
Secretary
706-799-0776
Cassandra Jones
Treasurer
770-550-2812
Keith Colquitt
Immediate Past President
404-369-6817

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