Code enforcement program established in St. Joseph County

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- The St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners announced that the county has established a code enforcement program that will handle filed complaints from residents more effectively.

Officials say this program will help the county effectively handle and respond to complaints from around the county that site overgrowing plants, abandoned vehicles and other public nuisances.

“It is partnering with the people. We’re not here to collect fines or come down on you. First, we'll have an introduction, we'll meet and explain why the code people are here, explain what the problem is, and then see if we can find a way to help people out,” said Derek Dieter, St. Joseph County Commissioner of District 2.

The program will debut its first public meeting opportunity on January 12.