The City Council finds that there is a need for alternative methods to enforce portions of the City Code. While criminal fines and penalties have been used historically as enforcement mechanisms, negative consequences for both the city and the public can result. The delay inherent in the criminal justice system does not always ensure prompt resolution of offenses that immediately impact the livability of the community. Citizens may resent being labeled criminals for violations of administrative regulations. The higher burden of proof and the potential of incarceration are not always appropriate for many administrative violations. The criminal justice system often cannot give priority to City Code violations due to caseloads and more serious cases in the system. 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 and a way to reduce the burdens on our court system.
(Ord. passed 4-5-21)