Prov. OKs problem properties ordinances

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- The Providence city council has approved a pair of ordinances to deal with vacant and  nuisance properties in the city.

Under the so-called Foreclosed and Abandoned Property Registration Ordinance, property owners must register any vacant buildings with the city, and keep them well maintained and secure.

"Rhode Island was one of the states hurt the most by the foreclosure crisis.  Many foreclosed homes in Providence have been abandoned, or left vacant for months or years, resulting in a lack of upkeep, theft, and/or vandalism. Owners must take responsibility for their property," Council President Michael Solomon said.

The ordinance charges property owners $100 for the initial registration, $200 for a second year, and $300 for each subsequent year. Owners who fail to register will be fined $250 per day. Officials say all the money collected will go toward improving housing in Providence.

The second ordinance takes aim at loud and unruly gatherings. It changes the penalties to a law that has been on the books in Providence for the last five years. With the new changes, police can issue a $500 fine if they have to intervene in a public nuisance at a property more than once in a six month period.

"Residents throughout Providence have suffered the negative consequences of chronic nuisance properties, be it through public health, public safety, or public inconvenience,” said President Solomon. “These properties jeopardize economic development and afflict our quality of life; however, the city lacked the proper legal recourse which this new legislation includes."

The ordinances have been sent to Mayor Taveras for his signature.