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 affective?
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.