St. Albans Council gave preliminary approval Tuesday to an ordinance to increase enforcement of nuisance violations and place liens on public nuisance property without obtaining a court order.
In addition, the ordinance would allow the city in some circumstances to sell city property without an auction. It also would allow the city to more easily enter into agreements with other governments.
The proposals were first outlined by the city when it applied to participate in the state's Municipal Home Rule pilot program. The program is designed to give local governments more power. The city was admitted into the program in September.
Under the proposal, the city property inspector could issue citations to property owners or tenants for nuisance violations involving vacant structures, sanitation, high weeds, motor vehicles, swimming pools, the accumulation of rubbish or garbage and the disposal of garbage, after providing a written notice.
The city also could place a lien on property for costs incurred in abating exterior sanitation and nuisance violations when an owner fails to correct the situation, the city performs the necessary work, the city notifies the owner of the costs, and the owner doesn't pay in a timely manner.
Selling city property without an auction would be allowed if the property were sold for fair market value. Also, City Council would have to determine that the property would be used for specific economic development projects or that it would provide a specific, necessary, convenient resource for the citizens. Such a sale would have to be advertised in the newspaper.
The ordinance would allow the city to enter into agreements with other governments by passing a resolution - a one-step process - rather than passing an ordinance, which is a two-step process.
The ordinance passed Tuesday evening by unanimous voice vote. There will be a public hearing at a future date and the ordinance must be approved again at a future council meeting before it becomes final.
In other action, Patrolman Brandon Tagayun was promoted to sergeant. He has been with the St. Albans Police Department for eight years. The sergeant's position became open because of an early retirement. Mayor Dick Callaway and police Chief Mike Matthews presided over the promotion ceremony.
Also at the meeting, council gave preliminary approval to an ordinance prohibiting parking on the south side of Adams Avenue.
Final approval was given to an ordinance subdividing the property at 2757 Washington Ave.
Council approved the purchase of a 2016 Ford Explorer for $25,940 for the police department with money from a grant. The vehicle will be purchased on a state bid from Stephens Auto of Danville.
It also was agreed to pay current invoices, which total $10,302.
Ward 5 Councilman Christopher Withrow, Ward 6 Councilwoman Loretta Griffith, Ward 8 Councilman Kevin Pennington and Councilman John Boles Jr. did not attend Tuesday's meeting.
Council's next meeting will be at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1 on the second floor of the municipal building at 51 Sixth Ave.