The City of Wellman is one step closer to adding new minimum property maintenance regulations to city code.

The Wellman City Council passed the first reading of adding a chapter in the city code that states minimum standards for all commercial and residential property within city limits. The new chapter addresses 12 areas, like the condition of doors and windows, keeping walls free of cracks, holes, and breaks, and maintaining stairs to be in good condition. Failure to maintain the new standard will result in a nuisance which can lead to a municipal infraction.

The property owner will be liable for maintaining the requirements. The chapter states the city administrator will be in charge of finding ways to enforce the code, and they can delegate this task to a “Property Maintenance Official.” For the chapter to be added, it has to go through three readings. The second reading is scheduled for the January 21st city council meeting.