Question #2 (two parts)

Question: How do you address a complaint from a resident that their neighbor is in violation of city codes?

Answer: For any ordinance or law established by the city the city must be prepared to enforce it. If we don't intend to enforce the laws and ordinances, especially when a complaint is filed, then we shouldn't have them on the books! This does not mean that we need to send out the "ordinance police" looking for every possible violation but a resident can certainly expect the city to respond to a complaint.

Question: If a resident does not comply in a timely manner, do you feel they should be fined in order to comply?

Answer: I would hope that Elk Ridge City residents can follow the commandment to "love thy neighbor as thyself" and resolve their problems without city intervention. I also expect the city to demonstrate appropriate compassion in the enforcement process without undermining the fact that a violation has occurred. Once other options have been exhausted I would support a fine.