Code Compliance "High Priority" Cases

In 2023 UMNA began identifying "High Priority" code compliance cases for urgent action.

UMNA recognizes the City of Rochester does not have the resources to address every code compliance case. In fact, given the need and the available resources, it's clear the code compliance area of City administration is dramatically understaffed/overburdened.

As a result, in 2023 UMNA decided it was time to identify higher priority cases and apply focused pressure to address those concerns rather than attempt to compel action on every code compliance issue.

To be clear, UMNA advocates for code compliance in all instances. Cases with "high priority" yield the greatest community benefit in exchange for the effort required to address the situation.

What does UMNA consider when identifying a case?

• How severe or extreme are the issues in a case?

• Does a case contain a large number of tenants or inhabitants who are impacted by violations?

• How long has the case been out of compliance?

• Is there a group of properties near each other that might result efficiencies of effort/resources and result in greater positive impact when resolved?

• Is there a single owner who has several properties in UM that might constitute a single case?

• Is the case in a high visibility location?

• To what extent does vacancy play a role in the case? Vacant properties are of particular concern.

• Is the case located in close proximity to a vulnerable population, a school, a business, or a religious institution?

Who decides which cases are on the list?

• Residents may nominate a case at any time.

• The UMNA board decides after consultation with neighbors and a review of the criteria.

How many cases are on the list?

• It varies all the time but not more than a handful at any moment.

In addition, UMNA is undertaking a new set of tactics to help improve the condition of properties in the neighborhood.