03-18-91 Human Resources & Economic Development

Home Browse Search

Human Resources and Economic Development Committee March 18, 1991 Page 3 Van Buren, and 1426 Portage, were also highlighted. Ms. Gatto noted that 1426 Portage was ordered vacated and sealed in 1988, however problems are still there currently. In light of the frustrations of the Near Northwest, a plan developed with the Building Commissioner and the Director of Code Enforcement, was then initiated. It was decided that Zoning Violation Citations would be use. She stated that unfortunately the system has not worked, and that "resident suspicion" was given as the reason that violations were not pursued. Ms. Gatto stressed the need for an experienced Building Commissioner and a qualified Zoning Inspector. Ms. Gatto completed her remarks with stressing the need for the restoration of public trust. She stated that the reason for the Department of Code Enforcement was for public safety. She stated based on the records compiled by the Near Northwest for the past 11 years, the process is flawed. She noted that the current process is leading to further deterioraton, and if it is allowed to continue that there will be a continuing violation of public trust. The album was then circulated among the Committee Members, reflecting information on the above cited properties. It was noted that a meeting with the Council and the Department of Code Enforcement had been scheduled for March 20th at 4: 00 p.m. Mr. David Fritz, the President of the Near Northwest Neighborhood Association, noted that Council Member Luecke and Council Member Duda had made tours of the Near Northwest, where 60 to 70 violations had been brought to their attention. He stated that the end result is that poor code enforcement allows continuing deterioratoin of the neighborhoods. As a result, properties are greatly undervalued and entire blocks of homes are being held hostage. He cited the 500 to 600 block of Scott, 'and the 1200 to 1300 blocks of Van Buren. He stated that crime is a continuing problem. He urged that "positive action" be taken, and that the rights of homeowners should be pursued. He requested the Common Council to take a leadership role so that building, zoning, and environmental codes be enforced. He urged that there be more inspections, more hearings, a new hearing process similar to the Board of Zoning Appeals, higher codes, higher performance bonds, annual inspections for rental units, towing of motor vehicles which are found to be in violation of zoning laws, and changes in the basic philosophy and attitudes of those working in the Code