Durham Officials Continue to Review Blight Ordinance

Durham officials continue to review a proposed blight ordinance designed to protect homeowners from nearby neglected properties.

On Aug. 13, the town's selectmen discussed a draft of an ordinance recently adopted by the town of Portland which formalizes how complaints are handled.

See PDFs for Town of Portland blight ordinance and citation hearing procedure

"I think this is still a work in progress and I would anticipate at a future meeting when we're more comfortable with the language setting a time for a public hearing," said First Selectman Laura Francis.

Durham officials , when selectman Steve Levy said he'd received complaints by residents concerned about abandoned properties.

Levy said last week that he supported the purpose of the ordinance, which according to the proposal would "preserve and protect property values."

Francis said the town will be required to provide a form for residents to make formal complaints. Enforcement of the ordinance, she said, will also need to be determined.

The issue is expected to be on a future agenda of the Board of Selectmen. Check back with Patch for details.