Abandoned urban property is established as a separate classification of real property for the purpose of ad valorem taxation. For purposes of this chapter, "ABANDONED URBAN PROPERTY" shall consist of the properties described in divisions (A) or (B) below:
(A) Any vacant structure or vacant or unimproved lot or parcel of ground in the city that has been vacant or unimproved for a period of at least one year and which:
(1) Because it is dilapidated, unsanitary, unsafe, vermin infested or otherwise dangerous to the safety of persons, it is unfit for its intended use;
(2) By reason of neglect or lack of maintenance has become a place for the accumulation of trash and debris, or has become infested with rodents or other vermin;
(3) Has been tax delinquent for a period of at least three years; or
(4) Is located within a development area established under KRS 65.7049, 65.7051 and 65.7053; or
(B) Any property in the city that has been identified as "blighted" or "deteriorated" and certified as such by the Code Enforcement Board or Public Services Department. As used in this division, "blighted" or "deteriorated" property shall mean any vacant structure or vacant unimproved lot or parcel of ground in a predominantly built-up commercial or residential neighborhood:
(1) Which because of physical condition or use is regarded as a public nuisance at common law or has been declared a public nuisance in accordance with any housing, building, property maintenance, plumbing, electric, fire or related codes;
(2) Which because of physical condition, use, or occupancy is considered an attractive nuisance to children, including, but not limited to abandoned wells, shafts, basements, excavations and unsafe fences or structures;
(3) Which because it is dilapidated, unsanitary, unsafe, vermin infested, or lacking in the facilities and equipment required by any housing, building, property maintenance, plumbing, electric, fire or related code has been designated as unfit for human habitation;
(4) Which is a fire hazard, or is otherwise dangerous to the safety of persons or property;
(5) From which the utilities, plumbing, heating, sewerage, or other facilities have been disconnected, destroyed, removed or rendered ineffective so that the property is unfit for use;
(6) Which by reason of neglect or lack of maintenance has become a place for accumulation of trash and debris, or a haven for rodents or other vermin;
(7) Which has been tax delinquent for a period of at least three years; or
(8) Which has not been rehabilitated within the time constraints placed upon the owner by the appropriate code enforcement agent or agency.
(Ord. 2018-05, passed 9-18-17; Am. Ord., passed 6-18-18)