Council presses local auto businesses to clean properties; staff to work with police on impounded vehicles

Council members reported recent on-site visits to local auto-repair and sales businesses, where owners agreed to improve property conditions by Memorial Day weekend after officials raised concerns about debris and visual blight.

"We had a calm cordial discussion with each of the business owners; they all agreed that within the next four or five weeks ... to have their properties ... cleaned up and looking good," Administrator Collins said.

Council and staff noted limits on enforcement: some vehicles on lots are police impounds that cannot be removed without titles or court orders. Administrator Collins said he would work with the police chief to identify those vehicles and pursue the legal steps needed to clear lots.

Staff also discussed zoning enforcement as a mostly part-time function and said they are exploring more proactive patrols rather than reacting only to complaints. Council members said they expect visible improvements but warned that some derelict vehicles may require legal processes before removal.

The council did not record formal penalties in the meeting; it directed staff to continue monitoring compliance and to return with updates after the Memorial Day deadline.