Neighborhood Code Compliance is extending the suspension of payments, as well as order-to-repair and demolition hearings, until June 1, 2020.

“We are giving property owners additional time to make payments because we know many are experiencing financial hardship due to the stay at home orders,” said Cindy Joyner, Community Development director. “As always, we will work with property owners to set up payment plans if needed.”

Although payments and hearings are suspended, Neighborhood Code Compliance is continuing its work to ensure the health and safety of Fort Wayne neighborhoods.

Officers are focusing their efforts on the critical services needed to maintain health and safety, such as sealing open and abandoned properties, responding to dangerous conditions such as collapsing foundations, supporting police officers and firefighters, and ensuring trash and debris are removed from properties.

Because only trash in bins is being collected, Neighborhood Code Compliance is issuing orders for residents to dispose of any garbage bags or debris left curbside or elsewhere on their properties. Property owners have ten days from the time an order is issued to remove the trash; after that time a contractor will collect the trash and debris and the property owner will be billed for the service.

“Spring is a critical time to ensure properties are clean and safe,” said Joyner. “Keeping neighborhoods and commercial properties clear of trash helps control health and safety issues such as rodent and insect infestations.”