Knox Code Enforcement Officer Kenny Pfost discussed several problematic properties with members of the Board of Works last Wednesday.
Pfost provided the members with an update about the rental properties belonging to Melvin Zeiters. At the Board of Works meeting in June, members were informed that Zeiters had brought at least one of his homes located at 407 W. Lewis Drive into compliance.
However, during their most recent meeting, members learned that little has been done to address the violations on several other properties. Pfost provided the members with pictures of the residences and cited a plethora of problems including garbage and junk on the lawns, un-plated vehicles, overcapacity and a variety of structural issues.
Mayor Dennis Estok noted that some of the structures have consistently been a nuisance for years and stated that the one located at 425 Fear Court seems condemnable in its current state.
Another big problem that Pfost mentioned is that Zeiters still hasn’t turned in the registration papers for his rentals, despite having the documentation provided to him on more than one occasion.
Members held a discussion over charging the rental-property owner for non-compliance but eventually realized that in order to fine Zieters for failing to comply with the order that has been issued, a public hearing has to be held.
Members made a motion to schedule the hearing at their next meeting in August. Additionally, a vote was cast to charge Zeiters with a fine for failing to register his rental properties.
Mayor Estok noted that in the past, with particularly bad eyesores, the City Street Department has been utilized to go in and clean up a property and then the owner is responsible for reimbursing the City for the work done. He said that could be a possibility with some of these places if noticeable changes are not made soon.
