Unsightly Properties

Unsightly Properties - The Missourian: Editorials

Posted: Wednesday, June 6, 2012 8:47 am | Updated: 8:47 am, Wed Jun 6, 2012.

Nearly every community has unsightly properties. Most are unoccupied, but there are some that are inhabited. These eyesores harm the attractiveness of the city.

This issue needs to be addressed. Some present hazards. Meth was cooked in one or two of these derelict houses. Usually, the grass needs cutting and members of the Washington City Council reported that several have become junkyards.

The council will consider new and amended ordinances that will give the city more authority in dealing with the unsightly properties. We hope the changes in the law will have strong teeth. Owners of properties near these eyesores should not be subjected to a loss in value of their homes and lots. The city has an obligation to protect their properties.

The city also has an obligation to maintain public property and generally does a good job.

Washingtonians have pride in their properties and it is evident in most neighborhoods. We don’t have that many eyesores. But what we have need to be razed or fixed up so they are presentable. The city does send out notices to owners of unsightly and hazardous buildings, and even condemns structures, but often nothing seems to happen or it takes too long for a property owner to comply.

It’s time to take the necessary legal steps to rid the city of unsightly properties.