Regular readers already know that KTLA reported on two abandoned Studio City properties last week - and that Mayor Bass and Councilwoman Raman have been bickering over responsibility.
The real crime is that the only mitigation measure LADBS understands is demolition. The City could impose a fine of $1,000 per day, and up to $100,000 per year for improperly secured buildings. The fine can take the form of a lien, collectable when the property is sold. The problem is our City Attorney is too lazy to get off her ass and file the paperwork. The typical routine is for the city to wait many years to file against the owner, discovering that the property has been sold. Then, because the buyer had nothing to do with the illegal activity, the matter gets dropped. Hit a few property owners with substantial fines, and this practice will stop.
I’ve been saying for years that the city could solve a substantial chunk of its budget woes by merely enforcing existing laws, preferably with fines hefty enough to sting. And yes, Hydee is a terrible City Attorney (hopefully her replacement will be better).
The real crime is that the only mitigation measure LADBS understands is demolition. The City could impose a fine of $1,000 per day, and up to $100,000 per year for improperly secured buildings. The fine can take the form of a lien, collectable when the property is sold. The problem is our City Attorney is too lazy to get off her ass and file the paperwork. The typical routine is for the city to wait many years to file against the owner, discovering that the property has been sold. Then, because the buyer had nothing to do with the illegal activity, the matter gets dropped. Hit a few property owners with substantial fines, and this practice will stop.
I’ve been saying for years that the city could solve a substantial chunk of its budget woes by merely enforcing existing laws, preferably with fines hefty enough to sting. And yes, Hydee is a terrible City Attorney (hopefully her replacement will be better).