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NEW CUMBERLAND -- New Cumberland officials say it's time to take action against some troublesome properties in the city.
Members of city council, during their meeting Monday, were approached by resident Rob Mick with concerns about a neighboring property, which he described as being filled with automobile parts, tires and other scrap materials.
"This situation is getting worse daily," Mick said of the property, which he and officials identified as being owned by John Cottrill.
Mick expressed concerns for the safety of residents, especially children, in the area, as well as citing a lack of fencing and the property being in the midst of a residential neighborhood. He asked council to address the issue, saying he was prepared to take it to the Hancock County Commission, if necessary.
Officials noted the city has authority to address such property issues, and some actions already have been taken.
"The city already has an ordinance that outlaws the conduct," City Attorney Kevin Pearl noted, explaining the ordinance has been in effect for close to 20 years. "A citation can be issued."
Mayor Will White said he and Police Chief Lester Skinner Jr. had visited Cottrill recently, serving him with a letter to serve as a warning before other actions can be taken. White said the city has been aware of the property issue since the fall.
"We started this last September," the mayor said, explaining he personally had spoken to Cottrill about cleaning up the property prior to the New Cumberland Riverfest.
Members of council agreed action is needed.
"Whatever it takes, we need to get it done," Councilman Don Blankenship said.
Councilwoman Judy Bartley agreed, adding "It's just gotten worse and worse."
White said similar discussions were being held concerning a property in the city's north end which at one time had been owned by Nick's Towing.
White also reported speaking to Ron Cross about the American Industrial Recycling building and surrounding property. White said Cross plans to have the structure demolished by the end of this summer, with metal siding installed on one building he plans to rent.
Cross originally purchased the property in 2013.