Strengthening Community Relationships to Achieve Equitable Code Enforcement

Code enforcement is a critical tool in any strategy aiming to address vacant, abandoned, and deteriorated (VAD) properties and resolve their harms to communities. However, communities often overlook their most effective resource in the fight against VAD: residents. This webinar will explore how communities can achieve more effective, equitable code enforcement by building relationships with residents, neighborhood associations, and grassroots leaders.

Participants will learn:

• Why it is important for code enforcement departments to continually engage with residents and their needs;
• How Peoria, Illinois’ inclusive approach to code enforcement has allowed for more effective and equitable enforcement outcomes; and
• Specific examples of engagement programs Peoria uses.

Presenters:

• Liz Kozub – Associate Director of National Technical Assistance, Center for Community Progress
• Joe Dulin – Community Development Director; Community Development Department; City of Peoria, Illinois