Memorandum
City of Lawrence
Planning & Development Services
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TO: |
David L. Corliss, City Manager
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FROM: |
Brian Jimenez, Code Enforcement Manager
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CC: |
Scott McCullough, Director Planning and Development Services
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Date: |
July 26, 2010
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RE: |
331 Johnson Ave.
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Background Information:
On April 6, 2010, the City Commission adopted Resolution No. 6880, ratifying the Community Development Advisory Committee’s decision in finding Patricia Sinclair, owner of the property at 331 Johnson Avenue, to be in violation of City Code Sections 9-606.1 (A) and (C). The Commission directed staff to not proceed with enforcement action for 60 days and to bring a status update to the Commission for authorization to proceed with filing a complaint through Municipal Court.
On May 6, 2010, the City Clerk’s Office received written notification from Ms. Sinclair informing the City that she was appealing the City Commission’s decision to the District Court, Douglas County, Kansas as permitted by K.S.A. 60-2101(d).
On June 9, 2010, staff inspected the property and noticed that the large pile of unknown items which were under a blue tarp were removed. The pictures taken on 06/09/10 show the conditions of the front porch. Although the large pile of unknown items had been removed; there were still many items stored underneath the porch at the east end which are easily viewable from the street as well as other items including furniture stored on the porch which are considered “indoor” furniture.
On June 15, 2010, the status update was deferred for yet to be determined date.
On July 20, 2010, staff received two internet complaints and one phone call from neighbors reminding staff that the property was still in violation; Ms. Sinclair had failed to file an appeal through District Court and was continuing to add storage to the front porch. Staff inspected the property and observed additional black screening material had been applied to the remaining open railing of the porch in what appeared to be an attempt to hide the exterior storage. In addition, staff confirmed there had been new items placed on the porch.
On July 26, 2010, the status update was scheduled for the August 3, 2010, City Commission meeting as a consent agenda item.
On July 27, 2010, staff took the following pictures of the front porch.
Action Recommended
Direct staff to proceed with the filing of a complaint through Municipal Court for the violations cited.