As an alternative to the procedure set forth in sections 4-2-6 and 4-2-7 of this chapter, the city council, upon receipt from the city clerk of notice of the filing of a complaint alleging the existence of a nuisance, may, by resolution, direct the city attorney to notify the person responsible for such nuisance to abate it, and if such notice is not obeyed after service thereof, within a reasonable time under the circumstances, as specified by the city council, to bring legal proceedings for abatement of the nuisance, and for recovery of compensatory and exemplary damages and costs of suit. Such proceedings shall be under the control of the city council in the same manner as other suits to which the city is a party. (1973 Code § 8.12.100)