MuniReg President Michael Halpern was privileged to co-present on a recent webinar titled “REACTIVE TO PROACTIVE: A Path to Equitable & Efficient Neighborhood Revitalization”
Hosted by former Kansas City, MO Mayor Mark Funkhouser, Michael was joined by;
- Stockton, CA City Manager Harry Black
- Anniston, AL Sr. Code Officer Tana Bryant
- City Detect CEO Gavin Baum-Blake
In brief;
- Harry spoke about Stockton’s use of predictive analytics to not only shape its code enforcement strategy but support its focus on performance and data-informed decision-making.
- Tana offered real-world examples of how data-driven strategies boost her team’s capacity.
- Gavin led the audience through a compelling demo, showcasing how their technology captures and identifies code violations, litter, and graffiti.
- Michael highlighted the critical role of vacant property registries in mitigating “zombie” foreclosures and supporting early intervention efforts.
To view the webinar recording, please click here.
A recent article highlights an exemption request filed for a vacant property registration (VPR) in Minden, Nebraska. This situation appears to be a case of much ado about nothing.
When a VPR program is approached with the right perspective, issues like this shouldn’t need to escalate to the city council’s agenda. A well-designed VPR program serves as a means to an end—with the end being a property that is either occupied and maintained or, at the very least, maintained.
According to the article, the property in question has engaged local owners who are actively rehabbing and maintaining it. In such cases, a well-crafted VPR program should empower code enforcement officials or the building department to approve exemptions without requiring council involvement.
Empowering staff to handle these decisions offers several advantages. It fosters direct and open communication between property owners and code enforcement, reducing the perception of an adversarial relationship that can arise when issues are escalated to higher levels. This approach aligns with the practical goal of achieving voluntary compliance with maintenance standards.
However, the broader and more holistic objective of a VPR program and all tools in a blight toolbox, is to build and sustain a thriving community. Maintaining goodwill between property owners and city officials is essential to achieving that objective. A collaborative and proactive approach ensures that everyone works together toward the common goal of preserving and enhancing the community’s character.
You can view the full article here: City Council Receives Speed Limit Update.
A recent article in the Roswell (NM) Daily Record highlights the city’s initiative to reduce building fees as a way to encourage the rehabilitation of condemned properties. While this approach is commendable, it’s crucial to keep sight of the broader impact.
The city’s code enforcement supervisor is quoted discussing an appropriate fee that would enable his department to “at least break even.” Though, for someone taking on the significant financial burden of rehabilitating a condemned property, the difference between a nominal fee of $1 versus $24 is negligible so this concern is valid.
However, more importantly, whether the department breaks even should not be the primary concern. The larger goal—the rehabilitation of neglected properties—brings far greater benefits. Avoiding demolition costs, increasing property tax revenue, boosting neighboring property values, and fostering community revitalization are all outcomes that far outweigh any initial financial loss.
Ultimately, the focus should remain on the transformative potential of these rehabilitations, keeping an eye on the prize: a vibrant and thriving community.
To view the referenced article, please click here.