MONTICELLO — With warmer weather approaching, Village officials in Monticello are reminding both property owners and tenants to maintain their properties in a clean, safe and sanitary condition to help keep the community looking its best.

In her report Wednesday night, Village Mayor Rochelle Massey highlighted the importance of keeping the exterior areas of properties well-maintained. She stressed that sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways and similar areas must be kept free from hazards to ensure the safety and appearance of the village.

“Automobiles should not be parked on sidewalks or lawns,” Mayor Massey pointed out, noting that failure to comply with property maintenance rules could lead to enforcement actions. 

In such cases, the costs of repairs or removal would fall on the property owner. She also reminded landlords that they are responsible for making sure their tenants comply with Village codes. 

If tenants fail to maintain their properties according to regulations, it’s the landlord’s duty to address the issues.

She brought up that many renters, however, are often unaware of these rules, which can lead to unexpected fines, lease restrictions and other compliance issues. To prevent this, she emphasized the importance of landlords educating their tenants about local regulations.

Homeowners who plan to make alterations to their properties, such as building decks or other structures, are required to submit their plans for approval. 

Mayor Massey made it clear that there are stiff fines for anyone who fails to comply with this requirement, warning that all infractions will be strictly enforced.

With spring and summer around the corner, Mayor Massey urged everyone to take time for some spring cleaning. 

“Mow your grass, trim your trees, keep your yard free of debris, and make sure your sidewalks are clear,” she advised. “These actions will help maintain the beauty of Monticello.”

“Let’s work together to beautify the Village of Monticello,” the Mayor continued. “By following the rules from the start, we can avoid unnecessary difficulties and keep our community safe and welcoming for all.”

Village Manager James Snowden agreed with the sentiment.