Senator John Pippy

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
02/04/05
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Sen. Pippy introduces bill cracking down on blight

Legislation would deny licenses, permits to slumlords

Recognizing that cracking down on slumlords is key to controlling blight, Senator John Pippy recently introduced legislation that would give municipalities more power act against those who let their properties slip into decay.

Senate Bill 153, now before the Senate Local Government Committee, would give municipality the power to deny permits and licenses to slumlords.

"In a perfect world, this legislation would not be needed. We know that most property owners and most residents are responsible people who care about the conditions in their neighborhoods," Senator Pippy said. "But, we know this is far from a perfect world and there are some disreputable property owners who are always looking for ways to take advantage of the system. Just as a few bad apples will spoil a barrel, a few slumlords and negligent property owners can destroy the fabric of a neighborhood."

SB 153 would authorize the denial of future municipal permits or licenses to slumlords who own property in any municipality in Pennsylvania with habitual, unabated, and serious housing code violations; with housing code violations for which no substantial steps have been taken to correct violations within six months; and for which taxes, or sewer or refuse charges are delinquent.

"We have seen that it's far easier for a neighborhood to deteriorate than for one to be renovated," Senator Pippy said. "All it takes is for one property to decay unchecked and chances are that blight will adversely impact nearby homes – property values drop and pride disappears. Soon you face an exodus of responsible residents. Those with the means and ability move out, leaving behind those less fortunate and that's when the vitality of a neighborhood may collapse completely.'

Among the licenses and permits that could be denied under the provisions of SB 153 include: municipal building permits, zoning variances, licenses and occupancy permits.

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