Fines proposed for negligent homeowners

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - One city councilor is sick of out of control weeds on Providence residential proprieties. So he wants to fine negligent homeowners $25 a day.

Residents in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood agree, the weeds have grown out of control.

"I stay away from that side of the street b/c of all the trees and stuff like that," said Troy Brown.

Jean Traskauskas said "looking out the window is just not a pleasure anymore."

Eyewitness News checked out several Providence neighborhoods, and the Mount Pleasant area was one of the most unkempt that was found. Sidewalks were blocked by towering weeds that stood at more than 5'3".

To battle the brush, city councilman Michael Correia has introduced an ordinance that would fine homeowners $25 per day if grass or weeds grow taller than eight inches.

After they're cited, if homeowners refuse to cut the grass and take care of sidewalks bordering their properties, the city would clean up the area, and the homeowners would pay the bill.

"I'm not trying to hurt anyone. I'm looking to get Providence clean," said Correia.

If the ordinance passes and homeowners do not pay fines or cleanup bills, the city would be able to place liens on the properties.

The Department of Public Works would be in charge of enforcing the ordinance.