Cleaning up areas takes time

Progress in cleaning up Jasper and bringing neglected property into compliance comes one step at a time, according to Jasper Fire Marshal Stephen Williamson.

The first step is reporting the problem to the fire marshal's office. Dangerous structures, high weeds and hazardous conditions all come under Williamson's jurisdiction.

"For those who want violations to be addressed, making a report is similar to calling Crime Stoppers. You may remain anonymous. Instead of a cash reward for convictions, your reward is improvements to the neighborhood.

"When making a complaint, remember that the name of the person owning the property, and an address or good directions to the location are needed," Williamson said.

There are procedures the fire marshal must follow. This includes talking to the owner in person or by phone and then sending formal letters requesting that code violations be corrected. The fire marshal's office will also post neon bright code violations on the property.

"The goal of code compliance is to have the person responsible for the property handle the necessary corrections without legal actions being taken," according to Williamson. Fines can be up to $2,000 per day if the owner does not fix the complaint in a reasonable period of time.

"It doesn't happen over night," Williamson said. "Depending on the willingness of the property owner to comply, violations can take time to correct. The fire marshal's office can provide the status on reported violations upon request."

If property owners don't bring the property into compliance, Williamson said the city may handle the necessary corrections, but they will hold the property owner responsible for those expenses.

Several more condemned structures are set for demolition by city crews whenever weather and their schedule permits, according to Williamson.

He also reports success with owners voluntarily correcting code violations. One retiree who bought property a few blocks north of the post office on Bowie Street has demolished some structures and repaired others.

"This is a property that numerous complaints were received on and where the property owner has commented that neighbors have shown appreciation to him since improvements began," Williamson said.

The fire marshal's office is located in Jasper City Hall, 465 S. Main, and the phone number is 384-4651.