(a) Whenever an owner, operator or agent of a residential rental unit fails, neglects or refuses to make repairs or engage in other corrective action as called for by an order or notice of violation issued pursuant to Section 1371.02, the City may undertake such repairs or action on the City's own or by means of a court order when, in the sole judgment of the City of Kent, failure to make such repairs, will endanger the public health, safety or welfare. The cost of such repairs and action will not exceed fifty percent of the property value as reported by the Portage County Auditor for tax purposes.
(b) When repairs are made or other corrective action taken at the direction of the Health Commissioner or the Community Development Director, the cost of such repairs and corrective action, including labor, equipment, and supplies, plus fifteen percent (15%) for administrative costs, shall constitute a debt in favor of the City against the owner of the repaired structure. In the event such owner fails, neglects or refuses to pay the City the amount of this debt, it shall be recoverable in a civil action against the owner or his successor, brought in a court of competent jurisdiction by the City which shall possess all rights of a private creditor.
(Ord. 2016-40. Passed 4-20-16.)