HomeMy Public PortalAbout037-2021 - MEMO
DAVID M. SNOW
Mayor CITY OF RICHMOND ANDREW J. SICKMANN
DEPARTMENT OF LAW City Attorney
50 NORTH FIFTH STREET RICHMOND, INDIANA 47374 KIMBERLY A. VESSELS
PHONE (765) 983-7220 FAX (765) 983-7365 Assistant City Attorney
DATE: JULY 16, 2021
TO: RICHMOND COMMON COUNCIL MEMORANDUM
FROM: ANDREW J. SICKMANN, CITY ATTORNEY
RE: A GENERAL ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 150.05: PERMIT REQUIRED
CC: DAVID M. SNOW, MAYOR
KAREN CHASTEEN, CLERK
Dear Council Members:
Attached to this Memorandum please find a General Ordinance Amending Chapter 150.05 of the
Richmond City Code. Chapter 150.05 addresses the requirement of obtaining permits for various
construction, demolition and installation projects. As you can see from the existing ordinance, there are
certain circumstances in which a permit must be secured before undertaking such work.
Typically, residents of the City of Richmond comply with the terms and conditions of the Ordinance.
However, in the event that someone fails to secure necessary permits, but begins construction, demolition
or installation, the Enforcement Authority is without the ability to enforce penalties so as to ensure
compliance with the Ordinance. Recently, Councilor Cappa and I met to review potential modifications to
the Ordinance in order to remedy this issue.
By way of example, if someone begins constructing a pole barn without obtaining a permit, the City would
be capable of issuing a $100.00 fine. If the owner fails to then secure the permit and continues to conduct
work, a graduated fine schedule would then be implemented. Additionally, my office would now be
provided the authority to seek a monetary judgment, as well as injunctive relief, which could require, up to
and including, removal of the structure unless a permit is obtained.
I appreciate your professional attention to this matter, and hope that you will not hesitate to contact me
with any questions or concerns.
Best Regards,
Andrew J. Sickmann