Connecticut Senate Bill SB01070

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/13/19
• Refer: 3/13/19
• Report Pass: 3/29/19
• Refer: 4/11/19
• Report Pass: 4/17/19
• Refer: 4/24/19
• Report Pass: 4/30/19
• Report Pass: 5/1/19
• Engrossed: 5/28/19
• Report Pass: 5/30/19
• Chaptered: 6/19/19
• Enrolled: 6/24/19
• Passed: 7/8/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Abandoned And Blighted Property Receivership.

Impact

The bill modifies existing state law by enabling a structured procedure for municipalities to handle abandoned and blighted properties effectively. It emphasizes the need for immediate action by providing mechanisms to bring these properties into compliance with municipal codes and support for their rehabilitation. This addition to the legal framework is expected to alleviate the burden on local governments while enhancing property values in the affected areas. Moreover, the measure aims to balance the need for economic development and community safety by targeting properties that pose risks to health and safety.

Summary

Senate Bill 01070, titled 'An Act Concerning Abandoned And Blighted Property Receivership,' introduces a legal framework aimed at addressing the issue of abandoned properties in municipalities with populations of 35,000 or more. The bill allows designated parties such as neighboring residents or interested stakeholders to petition the court for the appointment of a receiver. The receiver is empowered to take possession of the property and manage its rehabilitation or remediation, thus addressing the issues of blight proactively. The intent is to streamline the process of transforming abandoned properties back into viable uses, thereby elevating community standards and safety.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 01070 is supportive among local governments and advocacy groups focused on urban development and community improvement. Proponents argue that the bill facilitates a necessary response to the challenge of vacant buildings that often attract crime and decrease neighborhood desirability. However, some opposition may arise from concerns over the potential overreach of receivership powers, particularly regarding property owners' rights. Critics might argue that the process lacks adequate safeguards to protect owners from losing their properties without fair notice or opportunity to remedy the situation.

Contention

Key points of contention include the balance of property rights for owners versus the community's interest in maintaining safety and aesthetics. Provisions of the bill may spark discussions about the criteria for determining a property as abandoned, as well as the safeguards to ensure that the receivership process is not exploited. The bill also raises questions on the responsibilities of the appointed receiver and how to ensure accountability in financial dealings related to property rehabilitation efforts.