(A) Any person found to be in violation of any provision of this chapter shall be subject to a minimum fine of $150, not to exceed $750. Each day that said violation continues shall be considered a new and separate violation. Prosecution under this section is a remedy cumulative to any and all other remedies at law and equity, including but not limited to the city's remedies under 65 ILCS 5/11-13-15.
(B) All fees, costs or charges assessed or incurred by the city pursuant to this chapter shall be a lien upon the real property. The lien shall be superior to all subsequent liens and encumbrances. The City Attorney shall file a notice of lien, within six months after such cost and expense is incurred, in the office of the DeWitt County Recorder of Deeds. The lien may be enforced by proceeding to foreclose, as in case of mortgages or mechanic's liens.
(C) At the expiration of 18 months from the original issuance of the Vacant Structure Registration Certificate, the structure must be actively for sale, reoccupied, removed or demolished. Any structure which is vacant beyond the 18 month maximum registration period shall be considered abandoned and a public nuisance and the city may pursue whatever legal action is afforded to it by law for the removal and/or abatement of public nuisance.
(Ord. 1077, passed 11-15-21; Am. Ord. 1093, passed 10-3-22)