A. Properties subject to this chapter shall be maintained in a secure manner so as not to be accessible to unauthorized persons.
B. A "secure manner" shall include, but not be limited to, the closure and locking of windows, doors, gates and other openings of such size that may allow a child to access the interior of the property or structure. Broken windows, doors, gates, and other openings of such size that may allow a child to access the interior of the property or structure must be repaired. Broken windows shall be secured by re-glazing of the window.
C. If a property is registrable, and the property has become vacant or abandoned, a property manager shall be designated by the mortgagee or owner to perform the work necessary to bring the property into compliance with the applicable code(s), and the property manager must perform regular inspections to verify compliance with the requirements of this chapter, and any other applicable laws.
D. In addition to the above, the property is required to be secured in accordance with the applicable code(s).
E. When a property subject to this chapter becomes vacant, it shall be posted with the name and 24-hour contact telephone number of the property manager. The property manager shall be available to be contacted by the Town Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., legal holidays excepted. The sign shall be placed in a window facing the street and shall be visible from the street. The posting shall be no less than 18 inches by 24 inches and shall be of a font that is legible from a distance of 45 feet. The posting shall contain the following language with supporting information:
THIS PROPERTY IS MANAGED BY __________________________________.
AND IS INSPECTED ON A REGULAR BASIS. ____________________________.
THE PROPERTY MANAGER CAN BE CONTACTED _____________________.
BY TELEPHONE AT __________________________.
OR BY EMAIL AT _________________________.
F. The posting required in subsection (E) above shall be placed on the interior of a window facing the street to the front of the property so that it is visible from the street, or secured to the exterior of the building/structure facing the street to the front of the property so that it is visible from the street or if no such area exists, on a stake of sufficient size to support the posting in a location that is at all times visible from the street to the front of the property but not readily accessible to vandals. Exterior posting shall be constructed of and printed with weather-resistant materials.
G. Failure of the mortgagee and/or property owner of record to properly inspect and secure a property subject to this chapter, and post and maintain the signage noted in this section, is a violation and shall be subject to enforcement by any of the enforcement means available to the Town. The Town may take the necessary action to ensure compliance with this section and recover costs and expenses in support thereof.