(The Center Square) — In an effort to provide resolution for a situation causing lawsuits, public outcry, and severe damage to the city of Shreveport, the council is considering the Vacant Property Regulation Ordinance.
Ordinance 70 seeks to amend Chapter 38 of the Shreveport Code of Ordinances concerning vacant properties throughout the city. Section 38-126 of the ordinance defines the penalties, jurisdiction and enforcement appropriate if a property owner fails to comply with the standards outlined. The first offense is a $500 fine, $750 for the second offense, and $1,000 for the third. Each violation will count as a separate offense.
The ordinance sits under tabled legislature with an introduction date of June 11, 2024.
The specific amendments to Chapter 38 outline in detail the expectations and obligations of the owners of vacant properties throughout the city while also implementing defined penalties if not followed. Section 38-119 details the standard of care property owners are now being held to for their vacant properties, including protective treatment, premises identification, structural guidelines, as well as ’No Trespass’ signs.
Back in February, signage was a concern for both residents and council members. Previously, many have questioned whether signage was necessary for the Shreveport Police Department to make an arrest of trespassers and violators of vacant properties. The council confirmed clarification was needed.
Blight has become a serious issue throughout the city as many vacant properties have been set on fire, vandalized by squatters and pose specific health hazards to neighborhoods and residents. While council member John-Paul Young has been at the front, determined to find a solution, other council members started expressing concerns in previous meetings as the issue continues to grow.
“The people who are violating the law seem to have more rights than the people who are actually following the law,” said Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor, chair of Shreveport City Council.
Residents have also come forward, pushed to the point of holding signs at council meetings, demanding action against trespassers in vacant properties.
“It is the property owner’s responsibility to keep up with their property,” said longtime Highland resident Genevieve Capalia, who currently resides across the street from a vacant property that has been set on fire twice by trespassers.
The consideration of this ordinance comes just one week after Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Police Chief Wayne Smith rolled out a new initiative, A.S.K.B.L.U.E, (known as “Addressing Squatters Knowledgably” with “Bold Legal Unified Efforts”) in an attempt to deal with the squatter issue.
