Potential ordinance targets unsafe buildings

City Council last week held the first of two public hearings regarding the abatement of unfit locations throughout Elgin.

In response to council input, City Manager Tom Mattis stated there is a desire to see staff be more aggressive with code enforcement, particularly as it relates to abating unsafe buildings.

“We think [the amendment] will empower the city to move quicker,” Mattis said. “One of the big changes that we’re proposing is to put the City Council themselves in more of a decision making mode on this in the future.”

According to Mattis, projects have previously gone before the Building Standards Commission, and he recommends they now come before City Council for final determination.

The proposed amendment to the city’s Code of Ordinance contains penalties not to exceed $2,000 for each offense, except where a different penalty has been established by state law.

The ordinance will be discussed in more detail following the second required public hearing during the July 16 council meeting, 6:30 p.m. at 404 N. Main St.