(A) The Building Inspector or their designee shall determine in writing if a building is vacant. A copy of such a written determination shall sent to the person designated by the County of LaSalle as receiving the real estate tax bill regarding said premises. The written determination shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by personal or substitute service, and posted on a conspicuous location on the building. Proof of mailing shall be prima facie evidence of receipt of the notice. The written determination shall include the following:
(1) The street address of the building or a description sufficient for identification;
(2) A statement requiring the proper owner to register the building with the City Clerk within 30 days of the mailing of the notice;
(3) A statement identifying any maintenance work required for the building.
(4) A vacant building registration form.
(5) A form to be completed to appeal the determination that the property is vacant.
(B) An appeal of the declaration finding a building vacant may be made to the Commissioner of Public Health and Safety. The appeal must be made in writing and shall be filed with the City Cleric within 30 days of the date of mailing, service or posting of the notice of declaration. The appeal shall contain a complete statement of the reasons the owner disputes the declaration, shall set forth specific facts in support thereof, shall include all evidence the owner relies upon to support the appeal, and shall provide means for making immediate contact with the owner. The filing of an appeal stays the owner's obligation to register the building. The City Clerk shall set the matter for hearing before the Commissioner of Public Health and Safety and provide at least ten days written notice to the owner of the date of said hearing. The burden is upon the owner to present sufficient evidence to show that the building is not vacant. The Commissioner of Public Health and Safety shall decide the appeal after a hearing. If the owner is not present at the hearing, the City Clerk shall send written notice of the decision to the owner within ten days after the hearing.
(Ord. 1683, passed 9-19-18)