The Bremerton City Council approved with a 9-0 vote an ordinance to revamp how it deals with properties that are home to chronic problems.
The new law would notify a property owner if there are three problems within two months. If the owner does nothing to solve the issue or doesn’t attempt to, the city can issue a fine of $1,000. If the problems persist the city could ask the courts to fine property owners $100 a day.
There was significant opposition, though most of it was from people who thought the new ordinance was too vague and needed to be tightened up. In concept almost everyone thought the ordinance was a good idea.
Benedict House Lead Site Monitor Alex Munro said, “I’m all for this ordinance. I think you ought to pass it . . . when you’re done writing it.”
Congratulations Bremerton City Council for your work to make Bremerton once again a safe and healthy haven for families and visitors…this ordinance is a great start…good for you!
Sharon O’Hara
Other than evicting the unwanted tenants, what would the landlord be expected to do?
About time!
Decent people should NEVER have to struggle alone in a town, afraid for their children, surrounded by drug addicts, pushers, criminals… all people who would not be there except for the indifference of the rental owners, the lack of commitment from the city government and the police without back up.
Bremerton’s City Council and Mayor are taking back their town and turning it into a place — the place I once knew— safe neighborhoods for families…one step at a time.
The turning point will be when we can drive through Bremerton’s neighborhoods and see children outside in their yards playing, yelling, laughing…free from criminal intimidation.
In my opinion… Sharon O’Hara
Unless the law includes a fine for those neighbors calling the police on other neighbors when there wasn’t a problem in the first place.
It’s ripe for abuse.
As I understand it – a neighbor just has to not like me, call the police a few times, and start costing me $1000 and/or $100/day.
Unless of course if the neighbor calls, the police find nothing and they are cited as the nuisance.
I understand it differently, Travis.
Besides, we’re looking at busy people who wouldn’t waste their time on such a non productive activity…
Sharon O’Hara