(a) Properties subject to this article 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 and/or structure. Broken windows shall be secured by reglazing or boarding of the window.
(c) If a mortgage on property is in default and has become vacant or abandoned property, a local property manager shall be designated to perform, and the local property manager or motgagee contact person must perform weekly inspections to verify compliance with the requirements of this section, and any other applicable laws or town ordinances.
(d) At such time that the property becomes abandoned property, it shall be posted with the name and 24-hour contact phone number of the local property manager. 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:
THE PROPERTY IS MANAGED BY:__________
TO REPORT PROBLEMS OR CONCERNS CALL: ____
(e) The posting 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 time visual 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.
(f) Failure of the mortgagee and/or property owner of record to properly inspect and secure the property, and post and maintain the signage noted in this section, is a violation of this Code and may result in a citation by the town’s code compliance division. Pursuant to a finding and determination by the town’s Code Enforcement special magistrate, the town may take the necessary action to ensure compliance with this section.
(Ord. 2009-01, adopted 2-18-09; Am. Ord. 2020-05, adopted 10-21-20)