It is hereby found and declared that there exist in the city structures used for residential and nonresidential purposes which are or may become substandard with respect to structure and maintenance, and that such conditions including, but not limited to, structural deterioration, lack of maintenance, the appearance of the exterior of the premises and the existence of fire hazards and unsanitary conditions, constitute a menace to the health, safety, welfare and reasonable comfort of the residents and inhabitants of the city. It is further found and declared that, by reason of lack of maintenance and progressive deterioration, certain properties have the further effect of creating blighting conditions and initiating slums; that if the same are not curtailed and removed, such conditions will grow and spread and will necessitate, in time, the expenditure of large amounts of public funds to correct and eliminate the same; and that by reason of timely regulations and restrictions, as herein contained, the growth of slums and blight may be prevented and the immediate neighborhood and property values thereby maintained, the desirability and amenities of residential and nonresidential uses and immediate neighborhoods enhanced and the public health, safety and welfare protected and fostered.
(`82 Code, § 1428.03) (Ord. 92-88, passed 6-2-92)