The City Council finds that there is a need for alternative methods of enforcing the city code. While criminal fines and penalties have been the most frequent enforcement mechanisms, there are certain negative consequences for both the city and the public. The delay inherent in that system does not ensure prompt resolution. Citizens resent being labeled criminals for violations of administrative regulations. The higher burden of proof and the potential of incarceration do not appear appropriate for most administrative violations. The criminal process does not always regard city code violations as important. Accordingly, the City Council finds that the use of administrative citations and the imposition of civil penalties is a legitimate and necessary alternative method of enforcement. This method of enforcement is in addition to any other legal remedy which may be pursued for city code violations.
('72 Code, § 903:10) (Ord. 1998-881, passed 7-22-98)