Like in Bellevue, code violations in Pasco now are considered a civil problem, rather than a criminal misdemeanor that must be dealt with in court. Smith likened the board to a civil jury. But it's unusual for the Pacific Northwest. Now, rather than code enforcement officers spending all their time on follow-up, they turn over the case to the volunteer board. Property owners have 30 days to fix a violation, and if they don't, the case goes to the board.
Board members hear arguments from the property owner and the code enforcement officer.
If the problem isn't fixed, Pasco can put a lien on property, which prohibits owners from selling until the debt is paid. Or the city can fix the problem, then charge the property owner for the work. Last month, V.A. Kelley removed junk from the yard of his rental property on West Henry Street before the case went to the code enforcement board. But he still believes the program may be too costly for some people. But it seems like they're rough on the people.