Mickell M. Lowery

Shelby County Board Commissioners Committee Committee Agendas

The meeting for Committee #11 - Core City, Neighborhoods and Housing focused on streamlining efforts to better address needs and blight issues, particularly concerning coordination among agencies. Discussions included the role of the Environmental Court in handling cases related to dilapidated structures and public nuisances, and the proactive use of the Neighborhood Preservation Act to sue absentee landlords and appoint receivers to bring properties into compliance. The committee also reviewed the coordination of blight reduction efforts among various departments, including the District Attorney's Office E-Team, Fire Department inspections, and the Memphis Police Department's initiatives. Significant time was spent discussing a proposed anti-graffiti ordinance, comparing existing city and county statutes, and suggesting amendments to increase penalties, restrict sales of graffiti implements, and define terms related to property ownership and removal responsibilities.