One notable issues during the meeting involved a property on Baranova Road, where construction took place without the necessary permits. The alterations included a driveway, a carport shed, and other changes. The property owners addressed the board, detailing their attempts to comply with the city’s regulations and their frustration with the process. One owner, Ravi Serum, specifically requested a physical visit from city officials to gain clarity on the requirements, citing the challenges of caring for a handicapped family member and feeling unfairly targeted by the enforcement actions.

The board and city officials engaged in a discussion with Serum and the other property owner, seeking to understand the specific violations and the timeline of the notices issued. Despite some structures being removed, the property remained non-compliant. The board members inquired about the nature of the violations and the dates of the initial notices, which were confirmed to have started in September 2022. The property owners reiterated their willingness to comply but emphasized the need for direct guidance, hoping to avoid the accrual of fines.

Another notable violation discussed at the meeting was the requirement for certain types of trees to be planted on a property. The owner argued against the necessity of planting specific trees, expressing a preference for trees that would provide food for the family. This case highlighted the challenges owners face in balancing personal preferences with city landscaping requirements. The board extended the compliance date for the property owner and discussed possible fines if the violation persisted.

The meeting also covered the issue of unpermitted structures, such as a shed on Mrs. Cook’s property. Mrs. Cook explained the temporary nature of the shed, stating that she was in the process of moving it. Although she had all the necessary paperwork, she had not obtained a permit because the shed was not intended to be a permanent fixture. The board voted to extend the compliance deadline to accommodate Mrs. Cook’s situation and potential weather-related delays.

Parking violations were another focus, with a case involving a vehicle parked on the grass in a property’s front side yard. The owner, Maryanne R. Zaccaro, was given a deadline to either remove the vehicle or make it operable and relocate it to a surfaced area. The property was found non-compliant during a re-inspection, leading to a notice of violation. The board discussed the history of the case and emphasized the importance of adherence to city ordinances.

The board addressed a property on Lee Street where semi-trucks were parked in a residential lot, violating the city’s ordinance. The respondent was given until August 7, 2024, to comply or face a daily fine. Additionally, a property on Lyle Street was cited for junk, debris, and overgrown grass, with the vacant house posing a safety hazard due to attracting homeless drug activity and squatters. The property owner was given the same deadline to rectify the issues or incur a daily fine of $75 per violation.

Ms. Hattaway, another property owner, spoke about the damage to her property without her permission and her plans to seek legal counsel for probate to sell it. The board suggested involving the police to address the homeless activity and passed a motion to fine Ms. Hattaway $15 per day per violation until compliance was achieved.

Lastly, the board dealt with issues of tall weeds, grass, and erosion blocking a sidewalk on the property of Paula and Angel Matos. Despite previous warnings, the property remained non-compliant. The board unanimously voted to give the owners until August 7th to comply or be fined.