PETERSBURG – Upper Township Committee re-introduced a residential property maintenance ordinance July 9 that included revisions recommended by residents and others suggested by township attorney Daniel Young.
The ordinance, as originally proposed June 25, was met with considerable concern from residents.
Several key changes were made to the ordinance.
Addressing residents’ concerns about the number of unregistered motorized vehicles permitted on a residential property, the amended ordinance allows up to three inoperable motor vehicles, or parts thereof in the exterior yard of a premises provided such vehicles are part of a restoration process and the vehicles are not located within the setback lines of the property.
Additionally, they are to be screened from view of neighboring properties.
Another change requested by residents allows recreational vehicles and other kinds of campers to be connected to electricity while on a residential property, as long as no one lives in the vehicle.
During the public comments, several residents had issues with the language used in parts of the property maintenance regulations and had concerns regarding authority given to the code enforcement officer. Resident Mark Schuler commented the ordinance indicates the township may take action if a wall or structure is dangerous or may become dangerous.
“I assure you; everybody’s home in this world may become dangerous. Why is that word there?” Schuler asked. “If it is dangerous, sure, write them a violation.”
Young said that wording was taken directly from the state statute. He added that before any action could take place, the owner would receive notice and afforded an opportunity to correct the problem. The issue would go before township committee, and the owner would have the right to appeal.
Some residents were still concerned with a portion of the ordinance that indicates the code enforcement officer would have the right to inspect any property, after showing identification.
Mayor Richard Palombo said township officials would be reasonable in enforcement. “We’re not trying to be that kind of state, where we’d take away anybody’s freedom,” Palombo said.
Committeeman Hobart Young added, but at some point, rights give way when they impinge on the rights of others or safety. He gave an example of a resident he described as irrational living in an unsafe structure.
The township could not leave that person in that situation, he stated. Officials worked with the family and the individual to get the person into a safe living situation, and eventually demolished the dwelling.
A public hearing on the revised ordinance and final vote are planned for the Aug. 13 meeting, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Township Hall at 2100 Tuckahoe Road.
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.
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