| City of Florence Activates Board of Appeals to Strengthen Code Enforcement and Due Process |
| Florence, Ala. — The City of Florence is taking steps to activate its Board of Appeals, a body established by ordinance in 2003 with the adoption of the Building Code, to ensure a fair and transparent appeals process for building and property maintenance code enforcement actions.
Although the Board was legally created, it has remained inactive due to a lack of appointed members. The City Council is now moving forward with appointing members so the Board can begin fulfilling its intended role under the City’s adopted codes, including the International Property Maintenance Code. “The Board of Appeals is an important part of ensuring fairness and accountability in how the City enforces its building and property maintenance codes,” said Mayor Ron Tyler. “Reactivating this Board strengthens our ability to protect neighborhoods, address unsafe conditions, and serve our residents responsibly.” “Activating the Board of Appeals closes a critical gap in our code enforcement process,” said Councilman Josh Bowling, Planning and Building Committee Chair. “It establishes a clear, structured appeals process and gives the City a consistent framework to address property issues while respecting the rights of property owners.” The Board of Appeals will hear appeals of decisions made by the Building Official, review alternative compliance methods that meet life-safety standards, and provide an avenue for property owners to challenge enforcement actions. The Board also supports the City’s ability to respond to imminent danger situations involving unsafe structures and hazardous living conditions. The Board will consist of five regular members and two alternates, appointed by the City Council. Members are selected based on experience or technical knowledge in construction-related fields such as building, engineering, architecture, or related trades. There is no residency requirement. Initial appointments will be staggered, with all subsequent terms serving three years. There is no budget impact associated with activating the Board. Individuals interested in serving on the Board of Appeals are encouraged to apply through the City’s Boards and Commissions application at: https://florenceal.org/city_boards__commissions/ For more information, please contact the City of Florence Mayor and Council Office at 256-760-6400
|
