UPDATE: Oak Creek officials have just announced a major overhaul of the town’s nuisance code enforcement system, shifting complaints into a court-based civil infraction framework. This significant change, discussed at the January 22 Board of Trustees meeting, aims to tackle problem properties effectively while minimizing political pressure on local governance.
Town Administrator Louis Fineberg revealed plans to revise Title A of the town’s code, which currently governs issues like junk accumulation and derelict buildings. The new approach, modeled after the Steamboat Springs civil infraction system, will replace the existing “quasi-judicial” enforcement method, which Fineberg described as “not workable.”
“This is something we’ve been talking about for a few meetings now,” Fineberg stated. The proposed system allows code enforcement officers to issue written requests to property owners to correct violations within a specified period—typically seven days—before escalating the case to municipal court if noncompliance occurs. There, judges can impose fines or other penalties.
Mayor Melissa Dobbins has expressed strong support for the initiative, calling it “the real deal” and essential for addressing neglected properties. “This is the meat and potatoes of what the community is asking for,” she said, emphasizing that many board members are eager to see effective code enforcement implemented.
However, the shift may create tensions among board members and residents. Dobbins acknowledged that community reactions could vary, with some residents likely to resist changes. “We need to be really ready to go down this road because it could open up legalities,” she cautioned. The aim is to enhance both safety and property values in the community.
Fineberg, who began his role in June, noted that residents have voiced numerous concerns about unsecured vacant buildings and accumulated junk on private properties. “The code that the town has in place right now is very hard to enforce,” he said, describing it as “convoluted.” The revised draft aims to simplify and clarify enforcement language, eliminating ambiguous terms that complicate compliance.
One key change involves the removal of the Board of Trustees from the enforcement process. Instead, cases will be handled directly through the municipal court system, creating a more straightforward and legally defensible pathway for addressing violations. “If there’s no substance to an allegation, the court decides that,” Fineberg added.
Looking ahead, Fineberg plans to present a revised draft to the board on February 26 after consulting with the town attorney and municipal judge. He hopes to finalize and implement the new code by spring, emphasizing that the focus will remain on the most serious cases rather than broad enforcement.
“This code needs to be black and white,” Fineberg remarked, highlighting the importance of clear definitions to avoid subjective interpretations. Both he and Dobbins underscored the need for sensitivity, particularly concerning longstanding residents who may face challenges in complying with new regulations.
As Oak Creek moves forward with these changes, the community is bracing for an impactful shift in how nuisance issues are handled. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming meetings and provide feedback on the proposed changes, which could significantly alter the landscape of property maintenance and community standards in the town.
The urgency surrounding these developments highlights the town’s commitment to fostering a safer, more appealing environment for all residents.
