The bill establishes a framework for the abatement of plant-related nuisances in the City of Alabaster. It designates a city official as the enforcing official responsible for notifying property owners of nuisances and ordering their abatement within a specified timeframe, typically 14 days, with the possibility of extending this period to 28 days under certain circumstances. The bill outlines the process for serving written notice to property owners, including methods of delivery and the requirement for a public hearing if the owner contests the notice. Additionally, it mandates that the city council appoint an administrative official to oversee hearings and make determinations regarding the existence of nuisances.
If a nuisance is not abated within the designated time, the city may intervene to abate the nuisance and subsequently assess the costs incurred. These costs will be documented and presented to the city council, which can adopt a resolution to impose a lien on the property, referred to as a "weed lien." This lien will be collected alongside municipal taxes and is subject to the same penalties and foreclosure procedures as regular taxes. The bill also stipulates that any outstanding weed lien must be settled during property redemptions or sales, ensuring that the lien remains enforceable until paid. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2025.