Warren council passes blight ordinances

WARREN — City council passed two ordinances designed to prevent blight, even though one councilwoman said the legislation needed more enforcement power.

An ordinance that would change Warren’s housing code to make owners more responsible for vacant dwellings passed by a 9-1 majority with Councilwoman Helen Rucker, D-at large, casting the dissenting vote tonight.

The legislation would expand the definition of a blighted building to include any dwelling that is a fire hazard or a place for criminal activity. Dwellings that damage their neighbors’ property values also would be considered blighted, the legislation says.

Rucker also voted no on legislation sponsored by Councilman Andrew Barkley, D-3rd, that would fine landlords without city permits $1,000 for every day they rent and do not have a license. Currently, landlords are required to get an $18 license for every unit they rent.