(a) Any resident of an SRO who is injured by a violation of this chapter may institute injunctive, mandamus, or other appropriate legal action seeking enforcement. A resident who institutes a legal action pursuant to this chapter and is adjudged to be a prevailing party may be awarded attorney's fees and court costs. If the court finds that a plaintiff who brought a proceeding under this subsection 5-15-100(a) did not reasonably believe his action was well grounded in fact and warranted by this chapter, or that the action was brought for an improper purpose, such as harassment, unnecessary delay, or the imposition of needless litigation expenses, the defendant may be awarded attorney's fees and court costs.
(b) If the City initiates or joins any enforcement action against an owner who violates or resists enforcement of Section 5-15-050 or Section 5-15-060, the owner shall be fined not less than $200.00 nor more than $500.00 for each offense upon which a finding of liability is entered. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.
(c) If the owner of an SRO sells or otherwise transfers the property before remitting to the City a preservation fee required under this chapter, the owner and purchaser shall be jointly and severally liable for the payment of such fee.
(Added Coun. J. 11-12-14, p. 97375, § 2)