PETERSBURG – At the Upper Township Committee meeting June 25 there was a hearing and final reading of an ordinance amending regulations, standards and enforcement to residential property maintenance.
The committee highlighted some proposed updates and changes to the ordinance. It amends the maintenance and building codes to give the township the authority to demolish private buildings if the construction officer declares a property to be dangerous.
The municipality already possesses that right under state statute; however, the proposed change would provide additional safeguards to protect the owner’s rights and due process.
Another significant change in the ordinance would allow the township to put a lien on the property to recover the cost of demolition.
Included in the ordinance are some proposed regulations regarding unsightly, unregistered, inoperable and dilapidated vehicles that are considered beyond repair as well as the use of recreational vehicles that are kept on private residential property.
Unless an exception has been granted, residential property owners cannot live in recreational vehicles parked on their property.
During public comment, a number of residents voiced concerns that the proposed regulations would impinge on the rights of property owners. They emphasized that owners should be able to do what they please on their property.
Several speakers said the ordinance did not take into account property owners who restore cars, are vintage car collectors, and who build race cars or show cars on their property.
They were concerned about the limits on the unregistered vehicles allowed on one property. They suggested the committee provide precise clarification within the ordinance to permit those types of activities to take place on residential properties without violating the proposed law.
The committee acknowledged the public’s input and concerns and will consider making additional changes and will look into providing clarification in the ordinance.
The committee tabled the ordinance. It was to be revised and reintroduced July 1.
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.
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