The City of Independence passes a new ordinance aimed at houses that may pose a health hazard in their neighborhoods.

 

The new ordinance would give the city the authority to vacate houses that are not connected to city water or city sewer. Assistant City Manager David Cowan says such homes are unsanitary and pose a health concern.

 

The new ordinance would give the owners or residents 60 days to make repairs or connect to the city. City Attorney Jeff Chubb says the conditions of unconnected houses makes it an issue of serious concern.

 

The ordinance was passed unanimously by the city commission and will give the city a new tool to combat the issue of dangerous and unsafe structures in Independence.