HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-13-2026 - Agenda Packet City Council - Work SessionAgenda
City Council Work Session
Monday, April 13, 2026, 5:00 PM
City Council Chambers 12780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356
952-249-4600 /oronomn.gov
Roll Call
Work Session Item
1. Code Enforcement Overview
Adjournment
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AGENDA ITEM
Date: April 13, 2026
Title: Code Enforcement Overview
Presenter: Laura Oakden, Community Development Director
Section: Work Session Item
Purpose:
Review and provide feedback for code enforcement procedures.
Item: 1
2. Background:
City code enforcement is the process where local governments ensure compliance with municipal
ordinances to maintain safety, property values, and community standard.
The goal of code enforcement is to achieve compliance through voluntary cooperation by property
owners. The City's code enforcement program is complaint -driven. Complaints may be submitted
through a variety of methods, including phone, email, in -person, online submittal via citizenserve,
or Citizen Problem Reporter. The City does not accept anonymous code complaints. Common
types of complaints include junk/debris, outdoor storage, drainage, construction without a permit,
or long grass.
Staff approaches code enforcement from an informational and educational standpoint,
emphasizing working collaboratively with property owners to resolve violations. In most cases,
compliance is achieved without the need for formal enforcement actions or involvement of the
court system. The City is committed to working with property owners who engage in the process,
demonstrate progress toward compliance, and maintain communication regarding their progress.
The Council will be asked to discuss and consider the following:
1. Performance Alignment: Does the current approach align with the Council's expectations
for responsiveness, consistency, and outcomes? If not, where are the gaps?
2. Transparency: The City does not currently have an formally adopted code enforcement
policy. Is this something the council would like to prioritize?
3. Process Changes: Are there specific steps in the process the Council would like to modify,
add, or remove?
4. Enforcement Philosophy: What balance should be achieved between voluntary compliance
and formal enforcement?
5. Desired Outcomes: What measurable outcomes should staff aim to achieve (e.g.,
compliance timelines, reduced repeat violations, neighborhood impacts)?
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED
Council should discuss the goals and expectations related to code enforcement process.
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