Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to shut down properties that have a history of felony offenses of violence occurring there. By adding violent felonies to the nuisance code, Columbus will be better able to keep our communities and neighborhoods safe.
Title
To amend section 4703.01 of the Columbus City Codes to add property where felony offenses of violence have occurred to the list of public nuisances which can be abated.
Body
WHEREAS, chronic violence has a severe, long-lasting impact to community residents that are constantly exposed to trauma, leading to cognitive and/or mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and feelings of helplessness; and
WHEREAS, violence has a similar long-lasting effect on neighborhoods, resulting in economic stagnation, depressed housing or unsafe living conditions, and lack of youth opportunities; now, therefore,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
SECTION 1. That section 4703.01 of the Columbus City Codes is hereby amended as follows:
4703.01 - Definitions
For purposes of Title 47 the definitions found in Title 45 and the following definitions apply:
A. "Code enforcement officer" means a property maintenance inspector, or a property maintenance inspector trainee, or a duly authorized representative of the director.
B. "Department" means the department of development.
C. "Director" means the director of the department of development or his or her designee.
D. "Graffiti" means any inscription, design, word, figure, or mark of any type drawn, marked, painted, tagged, etched, scratched, or written upon any upon any building, bridge, fence, gate, rock, structure, tree, wall, or other property that defaces, damages, or destroys any public or private, real or personal property, without the privilege to do so.
E. "Owner" means any of the following:
1. The owner of record as shown on the current tax list of the auditor of Franklin, Delaware, Pickaway, Licking, or Fairfield County, Ohio;
2....
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