City ‘deputizes’ citizens to report violations

West Memphis residents can now report violations instantly with messaging system

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The city of West Memphis has taken a new firmer stance against code violations, particularly in regards to property maintenance. Recently, the city announced updated fines for neglecting the upkeep of properties, with penalties now more severe than ever before and now they have made reporting violations even easier.

“We are essentially deputizing the citizens of West Memphis and putting the power in their hands.” said Director of Planning and Development Chad Bowman, “This is to send a clear message to look out because we are serious about it.”

To make it easier for residents to report code violations, the city has implemented a new text reporting system. By simply texting “CODE VIOLATIONS” to 870-878WMEM (9636), individuals can report a range of violations, including abandoned houses, unkempt yards, junk cars, and unlicensed contractors. The reporting process is quick, easy, and completely anonymous according to city officials.

“Once we receive a report, the property owner will be notified by a letter and a sign placed in their yard.” says Bowman, “They then have seven days to rectify the problem before

See VIOLATIONS, page A2

West Memphis residents are now finding these signs in their yards, a warning they have seven days to correct any code violations before potential citation or other action by the city.

Photo courtesy of the City of West Memphis VIOLATIONS

From page A1

the city will be forced to step in.”

Bowman emphasized that the intention behind the increase in fines is not to punish property owners, but rather to prevent neglect and ensure that all properties are well-maintained. The fines are in line with those found in similar-sized towns in Arkansas.

The new fines are as follows: Residential:

■ ■ 0.2 – 0.5 acre: $150.00 (+ $50 admin fee)

■ ■ 0.5 – 1 acre: $200.00 (+ $50 admin fee)

■ ■ 1 acre or more: $250.00 (+$50 admin fee) Commercial/Industrial:

■ ■ 0.5 – 1.0 acre: $250.00 (+$50 admin fee)

■ ■ 1.1 – 5.0 acres: $350.00 (+$50 admin fee)

■ ■ 5 acres or more: $500.00 (+$50 admin fee) Furthermore, property owners may face an additional increase in fines if their grass exceeds 18 inches in height and requires special equipment for cutting. Discussions have also taken place about potentially raising the rates for properties of 5 acres or larger.