ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Asheville city leaders are set to consider a stricter ordinance aimed at tackling ongoing problems with abandoned buildings, as neighbors continue to report squatters and fires inside vacant properties.
On Tuesday, April 14, the Asheville City Council will vote on a proposal that would give code enforcement staff expanded authority to secure buildings that are structurally sound but still considered unsafe or a public nuisance. Securing would include putting up fencing or boarding up a property to keep squatters out.
Staff says they currently have a running list of about 30 residential and commercial properties they would target if the ordinance is approved…