Tall grass and weeds, trash and debris, and dilapidated buildings affect entire neighborhoods.
Bristow has a process for addressing these problems, and I want residents to understand how it works.
Our Code Enforcer prioritizes properties reported by residents. Before issuing a citation or abatement order, the City must research ownership and follow required procedures. Property owners are given a specific amount of time to correct the problem before the City can step in.
At the time of this writing, 28 properties are in some stage of the abatement process. Because each case involves specific steps and deadlines, progress may not be immediately visible. What looks like inaction may actually be the City working through the required process.
Compliance is the goal. Property owners are encouraged to correct violations within the time allowed. Paying someone to mow an overgrown yard or clean up a property is likely to cost far less than a citation with court costs or having the City perform the work and bill the owner.
If an owner fails to correct a violation, the City can mow overgrown grass, remove debris, or tear down a dilapidated structure when authorized. The cost is billed to the owner, and a lien may be placed on the property if the bill remains unpaid.
Unfortunately, the City rarely recovers these costs. That means taxpayer-funded employees, equipment, and resources are used to correct problems property owners were given an opportunity to address themselves. Crews assigned to these jobs are also unavailable for other duties, including mowing City property, repairing streets, and completing routine maintenance.
Property abatement does not transfer ownership to the City. The property remains the owner’s property, even when a lien is placed against it.
The goal is to protect neighborhoods, address safety concerns, and apply our rules fairly. If you see a property that needs attention, please report it to the City. Your reports help our Code Enforcer identify and prioritize problems, even when the process takes time.
Keeping Bristow clean, safe, and attractive is a shared responsibility. Thank you to everyone who helps care for our community.