Lynn set for push on code violations

LYNN – Health code violators and neglectful absentee landlords owe an estimated $300,000 in unpaid fines, some violators racking up more than $5,000 a piece.Over the past year, city officials have been working to crack down on those delinquent on fines through legislation that would place a lien on businesses or residences until the fines are paid.The law would target those that have accumulated more than $500 in fines, and would not apply to those who occasionally receive tickets in smaller amounts or to tax exempt properties, such as churches.Having passed a home rule petition last year that is similar to those passed in Medford and Malden, City Councilors hopes to alter the state law and allow outstanding fines over $500 to be placed on tax bills.Since then however, Ward 3 City Councilor Darren Cyr said he and other councilors have been patiently waiting to hear if the legislation would be passed.?We?ve been working on this for over a year, but we can?t force legislators to take action,” he said. “This uncollected money is due to the city and landlords just scoff at the fines.”Due to the numerous housing foreclosures in the city, Cyr said residents often leave behind a mess in a rush, resulting in health code violations and unsanitary conditions.?We need to get these mortgage companies to maintain the properties, because when people move out, the water gets turned off, the pipes freeze, and kids go in and break the windows,” he said. “And then there isn?t anyone to shovel the snow in the winter or mow the lawn in the summer.”Councilor-at-Large Paul Crowley said the property liens would also stop those from selling properties in haste and bailing on unpaid fines.?It?s kind of frustrating that the legislation hasn?t been passed yet because it would be another tool for the city to work with,” he said.In addition to the already proposed legislation, Crowley said a second proposed ordinance would be discussed at an Ordinance Committee meeting Feb. 26 to regulate the maintenance of abandoned or foreclosing residential properties in the city.?It?s like a contest with these landlords to see who can rack up more fines,” he said.Unattended rubbish and other litter have contributed to rodent problems, which Crowley said could easily be avoided if mortgage companies hired management to clean up the properties.However, sometimes the city doesn?t immediately know which homes have been abandoned due to foreclosure, so Crowley said he is working with the Housing Authority to get a master list of all homes in the stages of foreclosure to give to the Inspectional Services Department.According to Crowley, ISD has had to shell out over $8,000 to clean and board up several properties that have been abandoned to avoid potential accidents.?After people leave their homes with trash everywhere, ISD has to go in and secure the properties so they won?t be vandalized,” he said. “So we want this new ordinance to encourage bank-owned properties to hire a local management company to keep the places clean and take an active role in the property.”