This bill aims to enhance the authority of county commissions and local governing bodies in West Virginia to address hazardous real property conditions. It introduces two new articles: Article 28 under Chapter 7, which pertains to county commissions, and Article 20B under Chapter 8, which pertains to municipalities. The bill outlines a process for these governing bodies to declare a building or property as a hazard, requiring the owner to clean up or remove unsafe conditions. If the owner fails to comply, the governing body can take action to remove the hazardous materials and impose a lien on the property to recover the costs incurred.

Key provisions include the requirement for the governing body to serve a resolution to the property owner, the establishment of a hearing and appeals process for owners who object to the resolution, and the stipulation that the reasonable costs of removal will create a lien against the property. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining public health and safety by providing a structured approach for addressing dilapidated properties, ensuring that local authorities have the necessary tools to compel compliance and protect the community.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-28-1, 8-20B-1