Austell expands code enforcement procedures

Changes were made to Austell’s code enforcement procedures by the City Council on Sept. 18 to expand the number of sworn code enforcement officers.

Now the Community Development department will oversee code enforcement instead of the police. Reasons are increasing downtown growth and to be consistent with other jurisdictions, said Councilman Ollie Clemons.

Two part-time code enforcement officials and their budget will be included in the transfer. Code enforcement officers now will be certified and become sworn officers. Also, Public Works department employees will be authorized to issue code enforcement citations for specific issues they oversee such as stormwater or floodplain issues.