At the May 7 council meeting, Southgate Mayor Jim Hamberg introduced the city’s new code enforcement officer, Neil Berkley.
Hamberg said Berkley has hit the ground running and already settled some outstanding cases. He noted residents will see him out and about on the job across the city. He asked Berkley to share some of his background.
“I grew up in small Bellevue, not too far from here,” Berkley said. “I’m a retired police officer from Newport and have been retired for almost 10 years now, raising little kids, but it was time to get back out and do something. I saw the opportunity come up, and the timing was just right.”
He added he takes a hands-on approach whenever possible.
“I enjoy it. I am more of the type that likes to get out and talk to people instead of sending letters,” said Berkley. “That’s my style. I’d rather talk to somebody at the door, face to face. That’s where a lot of the activity will initiate if I can.”
The role of a code enforcement officer is to ensure properties within the city comply with local and state codes related to building construction, maintenance and property standards. They conduct inspections, investigate complaints and issue violations. They also provide guidance to property owners.