blight

Complaints about unsightly properties in International Falls have been rising recently.

As many as 50 have been cited for having long grass.

The city is now monitoring them to ensure they get mowed.

Fire Marshall Jared Baldwin says owners do have some time to take care of it.

“Giving them the 10 days now that we changed the timelines to, hoping to get some correction from the property owners before we have to get involved and get a contractor there to get those properties maintained,” says Baldwin.

Baldwin notes that grass has been growing more quickly over the last couple of months but offers no explanation as to why.

He says some of the properties on the list are ones they have never received complaints about in the past.

Baldwin is also wrapping up inspections of rental properties.

They are now subject to licensing and regular inspections.

Baldwin says it has been a good move for the city.

“Since we implemented this, it’s been very successful in the reduction of fires at rental properties,” says Baldwin.

“We’re getting good compliance still with our landlords in keeping these properties safe and in good condition for the residents in our community.”

Twelve inspections have been completed so far, with about another 10 scheduled to take place over the next few weeks.