Window boarding

Vacant houses would be required to have boarded-up windows under a bill up for second reading before the Metro Council next week.

The matter is sponsored by Vivian Wilhoite and, according to the city staff's analysis, the bill "would require property owners to 'lock, board or otherwise secure' all openings on the first floor of a vacant building.  If the property owner chooses to board up the property, it must be done using one-half inch thick plywood, which must be painted a color that is consistent with the building.  Further, all boards would have to be cut to fit into the windows and doors, not over them."

What seems like a routine bill is actually a great piece of legislation. Vacant homes are problems in many neighborhoods and provide cover for criminal activities. Securing those buildings makes it more difficult for criminals to operate.

Making the coverings reasonably attractive also sets a tone that encourages residents to take pride in the appearance of their homes. The better the neighborhood looks, the stronger property values will be. If property values increase, everyone benefits.

Kudos to Wilhoite for this bill.

    - Jim Grinstead

Comments

[votern]

Disagree with this analysis. This bill encourages more vandalism and for people to target an area with boarded up houses. Personally I don't think this is attractive at all. Poor Bill.

I agree. Half the time I do not a house or property is vacant. When it is boarded I now know it is..Hey no place to go, this place is vacant...let's stay here!