Miami Twp. approves tougher guidelines and fines for trash, vehicles

UPDATE @ 7:43 p.m.: Stricter exterior property guidelines and fines for violators have been approved by the Miami Twp. trustees.

A series of resolutions all adopted by a 3-0 vote aims to curtail "chronic violators" of the township's exterior property code, trustees Vice President Doug Barry said.

While those who are issued citations will face paying the township penalties ranging from $100 to $1,000, "this is not a revenue generating" move, Barry said.

The new guidelines take effect in 30 days, records show.

EARLIER REPORT (Aug. 28)

Property maintenance guidelines that include progressive fines in Miami Twp. for repeat violators are set to be considered tonight.

The proposal outlines payments to the township ranging from $100 to $1,000 for residents and businesses cited for not meeting exterior property standards that involve trash containers, junk cars, RVs, light fixtures, accessory structures, commercial parking and furniture, among other items records show.

RELATED: Miami Twp. among communities looking to clean up eyesores

Township officials stress they intend to work with residents and businesses before issuing citations.

“This is simply a matter to say we want to continue to work with our citizens,” said Miami Twp. Board of Trustees President John Morris. “But when the citizens fail to react appropriately, then we have another tool at our disposal to get the action that’s desired by the community.”

Those issued citations could face the following fines, according to the proposal:

RELATED: Miami Twp.: Ex-trash hauler left thousands of containers, a ‘real mess’

•1st offense: $100;

•2nd offense: $250;

•3rd offense: $500;

•4th and each subsequent offense: $1,000.

Blight has been a priority for township officials since the adoption of a strategic plan three years ago. Using the township’s limited home rule authority, the proposal seeks to streamline its code and fine collection process.

Trustees are scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. in the Miami Twp. Government Center, 2700 Lyons Road.

RELATED: Blight among priorities in township’s strategic plan

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