Presently aggrieved property owners file a complaint with the Parish
Attorney identifying occupants of a rental property by including
photographs of automobile license plates and stating that these autos
have been at the rental property on a continuous basis for at least
twenty days. The Parish Attorney then notifies the DPW Chief Zoning
Inspector who sends the owner of the rental property a certified letter
requiring a notarized response within 30 days identifying all occupants
and their relationship. This Zoning Inspector has stated that due to not
having adequate staff, there is no physical inspection. Could the number
of staff members at the Permit and Inspections Division of the
Department of Public Works be increased so that they may be more effective?
Yes, if recommended by the Mayor-President and approved by the Metro
Council.
Are there possibilities to expedite this process for occupants who fail
to meet the UDC definition of family, either under the present law or
legislation that could be proposed?
We are required to provide due process. An amendment to the US
Constitution would be required to deprive property owners of this right.
Could the original complainant send such a certified letter and forward
the response or lack thereof with the original complainant to the Parish
Attorney thereby fast tracking the process?
It would have no legal effect. Giving such authority to neighbors who on
occasion have conflicting motives would require an amendment to state
law and would be problematic.
Could the Parish Attorney use legal channels to identify the owners of
the automobiles from license plate photographs provided by the complainant?
They already do this. The Parish Attorney's Office runs the license
plates through DMV if a lawsuit is contemplated.
Could the civil penalties levied against illegal occupants and their
lessor be paid all/part to the Police and Sheriff departments for their
participation in this process?
Current budgeting procedure is dictated by the Plan of Government. Such
an earmarking would require an amendment to state law.
Could a new function such as a parking violation patrol be established
to give tickets for parking complaints?
If recommended by the Mayor-President and approved by the Metro Council.