By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
The head of the Village of Waterford’s building inspection department will again perform weekly property reviews this year as warmer temperatures have returned.
After discussion, the Village Board voted in favor of charging Martin Montoya, building inspector and zoning administrator, with the task of spending an hour of his time patrolling the village each week.
The weekly drives have been set to begin May 1 and end Oct. 1, according to terms approved by the board.
Montoya performed patrols last year, and the policy issue came under review after the warmer weather ended in the fall.
While on patrol, Montoya reviews whether or not property owners have any code violations. He also examines whether or not a needed permit is posted for a particular project.
The patrolling process includes assessing fines as needed, and performing follow-up when a violation is determined in an effort to have the issue satisfied. When applicable, late fees also can be assessed against property owners.
The board’s action comes with the understanding the weekly seasonal patrols will be conducted in both 2013 and 2014. Plans call for the policy matter to be reviewed again by the board after fall 2014.
One of the sticking points during a recent review discussion was the cost-versus-revenue aspect of the policy.
But Village President Tom Roanhouse maintained a positive perspective ab out it.
“I think it’s a good program,” Roanhouse said. “I think we should do it. I don’t think the business of government is necessarily to make money.”
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