Unsafe buildings pose a threat to life and property in the Town.
Buildings and structures may become unsafe by reason of damage by
fire, the elements, age or general deterioration. Vacant buildings
not properly secured at doorways and windows also serve as an attractive
nuisance for young children, who may suffer injury therein, as well
as points of congregation by persons not having a legal or lawful
claim of occupancy. A dilapidated building may also serve as a place
of rodent infestation, thereby creating a health menace to the community.
It is the purpose of this article to provide for the safety, health,
protection and general welfare of the persons and property in the
Town by requiring such unsafe buildings to be repaired or demolished
and removed.
When a Code Enforcement Officer has reason to believe that a
building is or may become dangerous or unsafe to the general public;
is open at the doorways and windows, making it accessible to and an
object of attraction to minors under 18 years of age, as well as to
persons not having a legal or lawful claim of occupancy; is or may
become a place of rodent infestation; presents any other danger to
the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the public; or is
unfit for the purposes for which it may lawfully be used, the Code
Enforcement Office shall cause or make an inspection thereof and report,
in writing, to the Town Board findings and recommendations in regard
to its repair or demolition and removal.
In the event of the refusal or neglect of the owner to comply
with said Town Board order, the Town Board shall provide for the repair
or demolition and removal of such building or structure either by
Town employees or by contract.