Council may add fees to abatement

Bob Gibbins

Nov. 3, 2009 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- Tahlequah city councilors will consider adding administrative fees to property abatement costs when they meet again later this month in special session.

Building Inspector Joe Williford said Assistant City Administrator Kevin Smith and Mark Secratt, code enforcement officer, have been to classes on property abatement issues and learned most other cities charge the administrative fees. The councilors saw a proposed ordinance Monday night, but they must have two readings to consider its approval.

"It looks good to me," Ward 2 Councilor Jack Spears said.

A $100 administrative fee will be charged to the owner of property abated by the city. Property that is "summarily abated," when the city doesn't have to do as much work, will be assessed a $50 administrative fee. These fees are in addition to other abatement costs, according to the ordinance.

Ward 1 Councilor Jason Nichols asked whether any unpaid fees would be tacked onto property taxes, like other abatement costs. Williford said that would be the case. In another issue, the council approved an ordinance rezoning the property at 320 S. Cherokee from R-2 to C-1. City Planning Director Julie Shannon said the rezoning had the unanimous approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

A proposition from Tom Jones to lease an acre of land at 16702 S. Starlite Drive in Hulbert to the city for a shooting range was denied after City Attorney Park Medearis said it would be a violation of state law. The council was asked whether officers could go to the property and shoot without a lease.

"It would be something the city couldn't sanction or financially support," Medearis said.

The city has a range west of Tahlequah on property being leased from Dr. Charles Carroll. Police Chief Clay Mahaney said more development is needed there. He said Carroll's property is appreciated, but it needs more parking spaces and other improvements to be used as an official range.

"It's a long way from being finished," Mahaney said of the Carroll property.

Jones said the police department has a guarantee on some gravel to build up the range, but lacks the vehicles to get the gravel to the site. Mayor Ken Purdy said that perhaps the police and street departments can meet with city administration and work out those issues.

The council also approved:

--An ordinance concerning the housing code.

--A plat for North Woods.

--A 2009 Bullet Proof Vest grant award and cash match.

Newstex ID: KRTB-0390-39414286