County commissioners have passed an ordinance that increases taxes for property owners who let their buildings fall into disrepair. The tax hike applies to properties labeled as blighted, with the portion of the tax bill funding county operations rising seven times. School taxes are exempt from this increase.

The ordinance aims to address properties that pose a threat to public health or safety, or are not being used for their intended purpose. Factors such as unsafe buildings, poor ventilation, and inadequate sanitation can contribute to a property being deemed blighted.

Further details on the ordinance and its implications are available from the source.