The City contains a number of vacant buildings that have been
abandoned by their owners, and that are in a state of disrepair and
neglect. These buildings, by virtue of their condition and their proximity
to other buildings, are diminishing the value of neighboring properties
and have a negative effect on the quality of life of adjacent residents
and property owners, increasing the risk of property damage through
arson and vandalism and discouraging neighborhood stability and revitalization.
Many of these buildings, or the land on which they are situated, can
be used for productive purposes, which will further the revitalization
of the City and improve its economic and social condition. The City
desires to use the powers granted local governments under the laws
of the State of New Jersey to address the conditions created by these
buildings, and further their reuse for productive purposes. By creating
an abandoned property list, as set forth in Section 36 of P.L. 1996,
c. 62 (C. 55:19-55) as amended by Section 28 of P.L. 2003, c. 210,
the municipality will better be able to address the conditions created
by these buildings, and further their reuse for productive purposes.
The public officer as designated herein is hereby directed to
identify abandoned properties within the municipality, place said
properties on an abandoned property list established as provided in
Section 36 of P.L. 1996, c. 62 (C. 55:19-55), as amended by Section
28 of P.L. 2003, c. 210, and provide such notices and carry out such
other tasks as are required to effectuate an abandoned property list
as provided by law.
The abandoned property list shall apply to the City as a whole.
The City Business Administrator, or her/his designee, is hereby
designated as the public officer for the purpose of carrying out the
responsibilities established by this ordinance, and shall have all
the responsibilities and powers provided by law.