The Jonesboro City Council has voted to indefinitely postpone consideration of a controversial property maintenance code. The 2012 International Property Maintenance Code has been debated on both sides, as was again last night in front of the city council. Supporters of the code say it is needed to deal with dilapidated buildings in the city, as well as neglected pieces of property. Opponents say they are worried the code will allow code officers to enter into homes. They are also concerned the code will allow officers to cite residents with unnecessary interior improvements, which could financially devastate those who are on fixed incomes. The issue could be brought up again at the next city council meeting on November 17th.
In other action, the city council heard from director of the Jonesboro Metropolitan Planning Organization Erica Tait. She discussed the group’s transportation study for the region for the next 25 years. The plan is called Momentum 2040 and will focus on five key areas that will involve Jonesboro and Craighead County. Those areas are mobility accessibility, and connectivity; efficiency; safety; quality of life; and economic vitality. The study and work will be long-term with feedback needed from the public. She says the public comment and feedback will go on for at least 45 days.
