(A) Properties subject to these sections 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.
(C) If a property is registrable, and the property has become vacant or blighted, a property manager shall be designated by the mortgagee or owner to perform the work necessary to bring the property into compliance with applicable ordinances, and the property manager shall perform regular inspections as required in paragraph (D) below 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 ordinances of the Village, maintained in a secure manner so as not to be accessible to unauthorized persons and shall:
1. Post "No Trespassing" signs at each entry door that shall state: "No Trespassing. This property is not under lease and may only be occupied by the owner. Occupying the premises or removing this sign without the owner's consent is a violation of the Village of Midlothian Code 4-19-2."
2. Inspect or cause the property to be inspected weekly and keep a record of the dates of inspection noting any evidence of trespassers or criminal activity. In the event said evidence is found it shall be immediately reported to the Village Police and Buildings Department.
3. Prohibit the use of lockboxes on vacant properties except in compliance with MLS Rules and Regulations as from time to time amended.
4. Take immediate legal action to remove unlawful occupants on the subject property upon knowledge/discovery of the same.
5. Failure of the mortgagee and/or property owner of record to properly inspect and secure a property under this chapter shall be subject to any of the enforcement means available to the Village and recovery of costs to the Village in the enforcement thereof. The Village may take necessary action to ensure compliance with this section, and each day on which a violation of this chapter continues shall be considered a separate and distinct offense. (Ord. 2035, 7-24-2019; amd. Ord. 2127, 8-23-2023)