Anniston Council vote on ordinance change delayed

Proposed changes to the City of Anniston's nuisance laws aren't sitting well with some of those in the community and one council member.  The Anniston City Council held a special called meeting to vote on changes to an amendment regarding nuisance properties. But that vote didn't come.  The council did not vote on the proposed ordinance since there was not unanimous consent. Council member David Reddick was the only one who said "no."

Reddick says the language of the ordinance is too broad. "I don't have a problem with an ordinance that would help clean up the streets or get drug pushers out of neighborhoods. Those are needed. But what we can't do is create a law that runs the risk of victimizing innocent people."

 The proposed changes allows the City of Anniston to deem a nuisance property as one with repeated criminal activity. Property owners could appeal the abatement, but the city would still be able to file suit against the owners.

The city council will meet again Monday, August 10 at 5:30 p.m.