Housing: Code Enforcement Incentive Program: Community Code Enforcement Pilot Program.
Impact
The bill seeks to address issues of substandard housing by enabling cities and counties to better enforce building codes and standards. With increased funding and the establishment of teams that include certified code enforcement officers and community representatives, the program aims to create innovative collaborative approaches to code enforcement. This could potentially lead to higher compliance rates among property owners, thus improving living conditions for lower-income residents.
Summary
Senate Bill 356, introduced by Senator Archuleta, aims to amend specific sections of the Health and Safety Code to enhance the Code Enforcement Incentive Program and establish the Community Code Enforcement Pilot Program. The key provisions include increasing the maximum grant from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000, alongside a requirement for local governments to provide a matching contribution of at least 35% over three years. This bill aims to improve code enforcement practices through increased funding, technical assistance, and enhanced collaboration between local governments and community organizations.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 356 appears to be supportive of enhancing local code enforcement capabilities, particularly in under-resourced areas. Advocates argue that the increased funding will allow communities to tackle persistent code violations more effectively, while critics may express concerns regarding the practical implementation of the program and whether the increased grants will lead to tangible improvements in housing quality. Overall, the discussion emphasizes a shared goal of better housing maintenance and community welfare.
Contention
Notable points of contention focus on the potential displacement of lower-income households due to rigorous code enforcement practices. The bill requires grant proposals to include plans that specifically address preventing such displacement, which has been a concern among community advocates. The ability for local government, with the aid of additional funding, to prosecute landlords with repeated code violations is another area where opinions may diverge, with some viewing it as necessary for accountability, while others fear it may negatively impact housing availability.
Appropriations: supplemental; appropriations for multiple departments and branches for fiscal years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023; provide for. Creates appropriation act.