05-17-2022 SidewalksSidewalk Repair, Construction,
and/or Reconstruction and
Assessments Ordinance
Public Works Department
5/17/2022
Policy Question
Should council approve the revisions and
additions to the City's sidewalk code to provide
process for sidewalk repair, reconstruction,
and/or reconstruction and associated
assessments?
Background Information
• Goal: Safe and reliable sidewalk system and minimize
liability.
• FWRC 4.40.020 currently places responsibility for
sidewalk maintenance, repair, and reconstruction on
the abutting owner.*
• Most sidewalk damage caused by abutting tree roots.
• Property owners have requested city help to make
repairs.
• Washington State law authorizes agencies to complete
repairs and assess costs to the responsible party.
*when damage to sidewalk is due to abutting
property owners act, error, or omission.
Proposed FWRC Modifications /
Additions
1. City notifies property owners if sidewalk repair is their
responsibility.
2. Property owner has 60 days to complete repairs or
request city to complete at property owner cost.
3. City /Property owner execute reimbursement
agreement (may include installment payments) and
city completes repairs.
4. If there is no
timely
action, city
council
can direct city
to complete
repairs
and
assess
costs to
property
Options Considered
1. Adopt the proposed ordinance for sidewalk
repairs and assessments.
2. Do not adopt the proposed ordinance and
provide direction to staff.
Mayor's Recommendation
• Option 1 (Adopt the proposed ordinance).
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a
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