Town officials face backlash over delayed code enforcement hearings

During a recent government meeting, officials expressed frustration over delays in code enforcement cases, particularly one that has lingered since October 2022. The discussions highlighted a lack of timely action following a notice of violation issued in July 2023, which raised questions about the efficiency of the town's management and code enforcement processes.

Commissioners pointed out that despite repeated inquiries about the status of the case, no hearings had been scheduled, leading to concerns about accountability within the town's administration. One commissioner emphasized the need for a policy that mandates hearings occur within 30 days of a violation notice to prevent future delays. The town attorney supported this recommendation, urging the need for quicker enforcement actions.

The meeting also revealed a communication breakdown between the town manager and the code enforcement officers, with officials acknowledging that the previous officer's erratic schedule contributed to the lack of follow-up on cases. A new part-time code officer is expected to improve the situation by maintaining a consistent presence in the office.

Commissioners expressed their dissatisfaction with the handling of the case, stating that the lack of progress was unacceptable, especially given the repeated inquiries made over several months. They called for a thorough review of the circumstances that led to the delays and emphasized the importance of establishing a more efficient process moving forward.

In a bid to enhance accountability, one commissioner suggested implementing a complaint hotline to allow residents to report issues directly, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly. The meeting underscored the need for systemic changes to improve the town's responsiveness to code enforcement matters and restore public trust in local governance.