(A) The inspector is hereby designated as the officer to enforce the provisions of this chapter. It shall be the duty of the inspector to:
(1) Locate abandoned structures within the town and its extraterritorial jurisdiction and determine which structures are in violation of this chapter;
(2) Take such action pursuant to this subchapter as may be necessary to provide for the repair, closing or demolition of such structures;
(3) Keep an accurate record of all enforcement proceedings begun pursuant to the provisions of this subchapter and to keep a record of the results of inspections made under this subchapter and an inventory of those dwellings that do not meet the minimum standards of fitness herein prescribed;
(4) Perform such other duties as may be prescribed in this subchapter or assigned to him or her by the Carthage Board of Commissioners.
(B) The inspector is granted and permitted such powers as may be necessary to carry out the intent and the provisions of this subchapter, including the following powers in addition to others granted in this subchapter:
(1) To investigate the conditions of buildings within the town and its extraterritorial jurisdiction in order to determine which structures are abandoned and in violation of this chapter;
(2) To obtain administrative search warrant(s) pursuant to G.S. § 15-27.2;
(3) To enter upon premises for the purpose of making inspections;
(4) To administer oaths and affirmations, examine witnesses and receive evidence;
(5) To designate such other officers, agents and employees of the town as he or she deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this subchapter;
(6) To investigate the conditions, and to inspect dwellings and dwelling units located in the town, in order to determine which dwellings and dwelling units are unfit for human habitation, and for the purpose of carrying out the objectives of this chapter with respect to such dwellings and dwelling units; and
(7) To take such action, together with other appropriate departments and agencies, public and private, as may be necessary to effect rehabilitation of housing which is deteriorated.
(Ord. passed 3-17-2015; Am. Ord. passed 8-15-2022)