Getting up to code

Delivering what he called a “state of the union” report at the Sept. 11 Scott Township board meeting, code enforcement officer Bob Fischer filled the commissioners in on what has been a busy and beneficial year — maybe a little cathartic, too.

“I'm tired of getting beat constantly by people,” said Fischer, in his fifth year as enforcement officer. “You get taken advantage of by people.”

That's not happening as much this year.

Just last month, Fischer stepped up efforts on rental property owners who hadn't been having their properties inspected when changing occupants, netting $1,600 in fees over 32 inspections. The real value, however, comes in identifying the buildings that aren't up to code.

“A lot of properties, they're declining,” Fischer said. “Some have mold and mildew in them. The ordinances have always been there but (have) never (been) enforced. ... It's helping to stop some of the rundown of the community.”

Fischer also is being aggressive this year in collecting mechanical device fees from bars and restaurants, flipping homes and collecting property maintenance fines.

“This year alone, I've had (property) fines of approximately $41,000,” he said. “All my hearings and appeals in the court of common pleas have all been upheld.”

He's not finished, either.

The officer said he'll begin inspecting the township's substandard commercial facilities, in November and he plans to get into all commercial buildings over the next year.

In the end, Fischer is aiming to improve properties in the township across the board, as well as making owners accountable.

“What I'm asking for doesn't really cost a whole lot,” he said. “I'm not out to fine people. I'll work with anybody that wants to work with me.”

Problem buildings

A Gateway Engineers report recommended the commissioners order properties at 310 Duncan Way and 638 Idlewood Avenue to be boarded up.

The buildings are in disrepair and have been gutted for copper by trespassers, Scott Manager Denise Fitzgerald said.

Budget hearings

Scott will hold budget hearings open to the public on Oct. 17 , Oct. 30, Nov. 8 and Nov. 19. Each will be held at 7 p.m. in the municipal building.

Dan Stefano is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at dstefano@tribweb.com or 412-388-5816.