Fining Residents For Shabby Homes

Tuesday, May 22nd 2007, 5:00 pm

By: News On 6

A Green Country city is trying to clean up its image. Glenpool has adopted a property maintenance code, and can now fine homeowners whose property has fallen into disrepair. The city hopes nicer neighborhoods will encourage more businesses to move into town. The News On 6â€™s Chris Wright reports officials are asking people nicely to clean up, but if that doesn't work, they can now fine residents.

Boats left outside, debris in yards and broken windows, itâ€™s exactly what Glenpool would like to get rid of. Businesses will also have to spruce up their property. The new rules are all part of the International Property Code, adopted by Glenpool last month.

"We have a lot of growth here in Glenpool right now, and the first things businesses do is drive through the neighborhoods, and they look at whether they want to build here or not, or they'll go on to the next town," said Code Enforcement Officer Stephanie Rammohan.

Stephanie Rammohan is in charge of enforcing the new code. She isn't out patrolling the streets, but if someone complains about a neighborâ€™s home or yard, she looks into it. And people are complaining; sheâ€™s already received 180 calls.

"People actually want this here, and they're paying attention to their neighborhood,â€ said Rammohan. â€œOnce it gets that way, I hope my complaints go way down."

In addition to prohibiting chipped paint and broken windows, the code also allows neighbors to complain about a popular parking practice. Under the code homeowners can no longer leave their cars in their yards.

Some residents tell us that is simply not fair. They say people park in their yards only because there is no room in the street. Others welcome the maintenance code, saying it may encourage some much-needed spring cleaning.

"Your neighborhood represents you, and your community, and you want your community to be represented in a good way, in a positive way," Glenpool resident Tia Pope said.

Residents cited for violating the property maintenance code have 10 days to fix the problem, or risk being fined. Glenpool says it has enlisted volunteers who are willing to help the elderly, or those who can't afford to spruce up their home.

To read the property maintenance code the city of Glenpool is using, click here.

Watch the video: Residents Must Clean Up Or Pay Up