Allegheny County's Potential Property Cleanup: Holding Owners Financially Accountable

On June 27, Lyssa Eberhardt and Asher Khersonsky from Allegheny CleanWays were seen removing debris from condemned properties in McKeesport. This nonprofit group, dedicated to addressing illegal dumping in Allegheny County, is facing funding cuts due to the cancellation of federal grants. Recently, the county Board of Health endorsed legislation permitting crews to remediate outdoor hazards and subsequently place liens on the affected properties. This initiative now awaits County Council's approval. Advocates have hailed this “clean and lien” strategy as essential for motivating negligent property owners to rectify environmental hazards. The amendment to Article VI of the housing code allows the Health Department to employ contractors for cleanup efforts, particularly when previous attempts to engage the property owners have failed. This responsive measure aims to combat increasing health risks exacerbated by climate change, including pestilence and property neglect. Members from the Housing and Community Environment Advisory Committee are collaborating to facilitate more proactive housing policies.