ISSUES

Investment in street maintenance continues to be a priority; however, similar to other communities across the Commonwealth, we continue to struggle to adequately fund the program.

The key to the preservation of property values and the maintenance of neighborhood integrity and attractiveness is property maintenance enforcement.  Graffiti, trash, overgrown weeds, structural deficiencies, and vacant buildings are just some of the serious issues that create problems in our neighborhoods.  By resolving code violations, our neighborhoods are strengthened and crime incidents decrease.  That is why the Mayor is committed to fighting back against blight and she will continue to add tools to our tool box. 

Buildings that are unsafe or unhealthy for persons to live or work in because of building code violations, dilapidation, deterioration are considered blighted.  These properties usually have been abandoned by the property owner and bring down property values and hurt our neighborhoods.

Serious crime and crime overall have significantly decreased with 2024 being the 2^nd lowest crime count in statistical history.  Overall, 2021 was the lowest year for crime.  In comparison to 20 years ago, serious crime has decreased by 59% and overall crime numbers decreased by 62%.