§ 10-702. FINDINGS.

(a)

Just as the physical conditions of structures and properties within the City can constitute public nuisances, so can too the behavior of persons on properties within the City constitute public nuisances. The abatement of behavioral nuisances is as important to the City in its fight against blight, decay, deterioration and crime as is the abatement of other nuisances created by physical conditions.

(b)

The owners of real properties within the City are primarily responsible for monitoring their properties and for taking appropriate action if a nuisance exists thereon, whether that nuisance be created by existing physical conditions or by nuisance creating behaviors, or the combination of conditions. Many nuisances can be avoided with active property management. Lack of proper management of real property can create an environment which is conducive to behaviors which become a nuisance with repetition and lack of abatement and corrective measures. If a property owner does not fulfill the owner's responsibilities, it is necessary for the safety, health and welfare of the neighborhoods, and the City as a whole, that the City be able to undertake abatement action.

(c)

Because of the profound impact and effect behavioral nuisances have on the community, individuals and crime, the Council, in adopting this ordinance finds the civil penalties imposed for a violation of this ordinance are justified and necessary to protect the health, property, and integrity of this community.

(d)

Nothing in this ordinance exempts property owners from compliance with state or federal laws, including, but not limited to, laws on housing, eviction, retaliatory conduct, discriminatory conduct, or invasion of privacy, nor with City laws relating to housing or relocation.

(Added Ord. 98-73, § 1, eff. 10-24-98; Am. Ord. 2016-16, § 1, eff. 7-1-16).