New Florence policies aim to fill vacant buildings
by Mark Cowling | Florence Reminder & Blade Tribune
New definitions of “vacant buildings,” “unoccupied structures” and “abandoned structures” are expected to give the town more leverage as it works with owners to improve these buildings and lease or sell them.
The Town Council gave final approval to updated building and technical codes Monday night. Mayor Tara Walter said that the new codes are less restrictive than the old codes, as the town attempts to meet the needs of businesses and residents while ensuring safety.
Town staff also shared new definitions and policies they’ve developed, in response to council members’ concerns, to provide more incentive for property owners to fill vacant buildings.