Derelict properties under scrutiny

Having spent the last couple years working to wipe away lingering traces of storm damage along the beach, city officials said they are now focusing their attention on derelict properties in residential neighborhoods.

To that end, the City Council at its meeting today will consider declaring five properties public nuisances, which would allow city employees to clean up the properties, in some cases demolishing structures, and billing the owners.

“We’re not out harassing people if they don’t clean their yard up every two weeks,” Mayor Tony Kennon told residents last week during a public forum. “We’re talking about public safety, public heath. Serious issues. Vermin. Something of that nature

Derelict properties under scrutiny