Issue link: http://accesshealth.uberflip.com/i/316401
9/ TheBucknerClarion.com May 22, 2014 Community Pride Citywide Clean-up Day is May 31st Ed Burns talks code violations and enforcement. Q: What is a code violation? A: A code violation is generally something that prevents a property from being clean and orderly. Q: What are the most common types of code violations? A: The most common are usually tall grass, weeds in the fences, sheds or garages that are deteriorating, and junk or inoperable cars in the yards. Q: Do you see trends based on the season? If yes, please explain. A: Yes. During the summer we see more high grass, weeds and debris on properties. In the winter we see more trash and litter on properties. Q: What do you do once you are cited for a code violation? A: Before we issue citations, we will approach with other options. Once the violation is noticed, a letter will be mailed or a notice will be posted on the property giving details of the violation. The homeowner or business has 10 days to rectify the issue be- fore receiving a citation. After the 10 days, citations could be issued for every day in which the viola- tion continues. This could end up being very costly. was time that I try to share my talents and time for the benefit of those who have helped me get to where I am in life. Q: What have been some of the biggest City accomplishments during your tenure? A: The single biggest accomplishment has to be the revitalization of downtown. It is just getting started, but the new City Hall, and all that goes with it, will be the biggest change in a generation. Q: What are your biggest concerns/hot buttons as it relates to the City of Buckner? A: I tend to be a bit of a budget hawk. I am always concerned with revenue streams. I take a strong position on meeting our responsibilities to the citizens. This means not having to go back and ask for more money, or threaten to cut services. I honor the trust the voters have in me. Q: If you were granted three wishes for Buckner, what A: I am very optimistic about where the community is headed. This spring, a pilot for a series on WGN America was filmed here. We have started the downtown revitalization, and the Christmas light display in the park. We have great people working hard to make this an even better place to live. This all adds up to exciting times to live and work in Buckner. Q: Is there anything else you would like people to know? A: It is an old story, but at various times in our lives, we have different amounts of time, talent or treasure to share with others. At times we are residents, but hopefully at some stage we can become citizens, engaged in making the community better. It is tempting to let others do it for you, but the only way your vision can be reality is when you step up and share your thoughts. It does take time and it doesn't always work out the way you want, but it is better to try and fail than to not try and complain that nothing is getting done. Q: Is there a way to dispute a violation? If so, how? A: Yes. After the notice is given about a violation, the owner has the right to appeal and should call City Hall. Appeals can be held in person or can be conducted over the phone. Q: What do you think are some unknown code violations? A: The first that comes to mind is old tires on properties. Secondly, tree limbs less than 14 feet high are not allowed to project over roadways. Q: What is the best way for residents and businesses to be aware of City Code Ordinances? A: Anyone with questions about ordinances should call City Hall or me at 816.801.9327. Also, we are working on listing ordinances on the city website as an easily accessible resource. Q: How can residents seek assistance for code violations that they don't have the means to fix? A: Residents in this situation should call City Hall. The City is willing to work with people who are making efforts to better their properties and resolve violations. There is no law against being poor, or without financial means. We just ask people to put forth the effort to keep their properties clean. Q: How long have you served as alderman? A: I am starting my 4 th year. Q: Who or what encouraged you to take this position and why? A: Mayor Hickson asked me to fill the vacancy created when he became mayor. That corre- sponded with a time that I had been looking for a way to be more of an engaged citizen. I grew up in the community and thought it Alderman Darrel Box Shares Hopes, Perspective on Buckner would they be? A: A business that collects lots of sales tax and provides a lot of good paying jobs that would relocate or open a branch in Buckner. Not to sound cranky, it is great to dream, but it is more important to act. As a community, we are working to make the town more desirable so that at some point more business will want to locate here and bring the jobs and associated commerce with them. It doesn't happen overnight but I believe it will happen. Q: What is the "one thing" that must be accomplished in Buckner and why? A: I don't know that it is a must do, but I would say that having an engaged citizenry is vital to a vibrant and growing community. I am encouraged by the number of people participating in the Be- lieve in Buckner meetings. This can be the foundation that we build on going forward. Q: What's next for the City of Buckner? Q: What is Citywide Clean-up? A: Citywide Clean-up is a day designated to offer the residents of Buckner an opportunity to clean properties. On May 31st, AAA Disposal is donating dumpsters that will be placed at the Buckner Waste Water Treatment Plant. This is offered to the residents at no cost and they are allowed to throw away trash, junk, and debris. However, we are unable to collect old tires and batteries. If there are any senior citizens who don't have the means to transport their waste, they can call me prior to the clean-up day to make arrangements for pick-up. This will be available from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Q: What additional information might be helpful for both residents and businesses in Buckner? A: Buckner is a nice town and a nice community. We want to see residents and business owners continue this trend of taking pride in their properties. Ed Burns also serves as Public Works Superintendent and Park Director.