By Bob Katzen

A bill heard by the Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government would empower cities and towns to hold property owners financially accountable when their properties are the source of ten or more repeated public nuisance complaints within a 1-year period. The measure holds the owner responsible for the costs associated with any subsequent police responses, as well as any other costs.

“This legislation is about restoring fairness for taxpayers and ensuring safer neighborhoods,” said sponsor Rep. Bruce Ayers (D-Quincy). “When a property becomes a repeated source of disturbance, the financial burden shouldn’t fall on the community, it should fall on the property owner responsible. By holding them accountable, we give municipalities the tools they need to protect quality of life for all residents.”