SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — Some Summerside city councillors would like to see stronger bylaw guidelines when it comes to unsightly properties in the city.
On Monday night during the April regular monthly council meeting, Coun. Cory Snow raised concerns that several residents have called him and other city representatives about several unsightly properties in the city.
There's not a lack of response to the infractions, said Snow, but to better deal with the reports, a bylaw officer might be helpful.
"I've been pushing for a bylaw officer or additional staff to help deal with bylaw infractions. It's unfortunate that people have to put up with this when you have to live (by) a property where a homeowner or tenant are not taking of it," he said.
"Residents are tired of the same thing, then coming up to me and finding the reasoning why it's not addressed."
Bylaw infractions are dealt with by the city's police service.
Coun. Barb Ramsay was quick to say police have been responding to the reports and have been addressing the issues.
Snow said he wants to find a way to address the issues, which could include charging people for the infraction or having city resources used to clean up the property and then a bill sent to the owner.
Coun. Brian McFeely said there might need to be a bylaw with "more teeth".
"We need to be more aggressive with the (unsightly properties) we have for this summer."
Deputy Mayor Norma McColeman said it's also to important to acknowledge any personal reasons a property owner or tenant might be unable to maintain the property.
Council agreed to revisit the discussion at the next meeting.
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