Title
Consider adopting Ordinance No. 3419 amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 26, Article III, Mandatory Crime Reduction Program for Designated Apartment Complexes; and take appropriate action.
Body
BACKGROUND:
The City of Farmers Branch adopted Ordinance No. 3038 on August 11, 2009 enacting the Mandatory Crime Reduction Program (MCRP) for Designated Apartment Complexes for the purpose of protecting the health, safety, morals and welfare of occupants of apartment complexes and other citizens of the City by obtaining greater compliance with property standards. Recommended changes to the program were reviewed with City Council during the December 13, 2016 Council Study Session meeting. Ordinance No. 3038 was developed based on feedback received from this meeting.
DISCUSSION:
Since the inception of the program the average crime index threshold has decreased from 21.6 to 10.4. This successful reduction in criminal activity is a testament to the willingness of the apartment complexes to work with the City to create a safer environment for those living in apartment communities. In order to further enhance the effectiveness of this program; the following amendments are recommended to Council for consideration. The bulleted list represents the most significant changes to the program.
* All new apartment complex applicants will receive MCRP Program details upon registration with the Building Official;
* Deleted credit history checks;
* Adds a comparative residential crime index for comparison;
* Further defines the definition of a "Crime";
* Adds a police department Criminal Trespass Program;
* Requires a Residential Security Survey for new occupants;
* Requires on-site security for repeat offenders that exceed 24-months in the program;
* Makes the zoning board of adjustments the body that hears program appeals;
* Increases program fee to $2,000
RECOMMENDATION:
City Administration recommends adopting Ordinance No. 3419, amending the Mandatory Crime Reduct...
Click here for full text