Demopolis starts enforcing downtown building code requirements on derelict properties

Demopolis has started enforcing a new procedure designed to require property owners to bring buildings into compliance with city codes.

Two buildings on Washington Street have orange signs on the front indicating the clock is ticking for improvements to be made as part of Demopolis' new effort to speed up improvements of aging properties, and city leaders say three more orange signs will go up on properties as soon as next week.

The Demopolis City Council last spring started pushing for enforcement of code violations to get derelict buildings downtown to join other renovation efforts, specifically the multimillion-dollar H&M Construction corporate office redevelopment project on the corner of Washington Street and Walnut Avenue that started in March. 

Councilman Hugh Overmyer in the City Council meeting Thursday night urged staff to dedicate time to the enforcement effort that was approved as a six-page document titled Property Maintenance Code Enforcement Procedure in August. It outlines who would inspect structures, how owners would be notified of violations and how owners could appeal a violation notice.

“We went through a lot of trouble to implement this, so this needs to be done right,” Overmyer said.

Overmyer added he drove around downtown Demopolis and came up with a long list of many renovation projects happening right now. "If anyone has ever seen this many things going on in Demopolis before now, I will give them a free night at Strawberry Jam. I challenge you!"

The city came up with a full process for inspecting and notifying property owners, including appointing a committee to "administer and enforce" the code or city ordinances. There is also an appeal process.