By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
Newly elected Place 1 Councilman Frank Galvan has filed a formal citizen complaint with the Town of Laguna Vista, alleging what he believes to be inconsistent enforcement of municipal codes.
The complaint, received by the town on June 11, requests a review of whether code enforcement policies are being applied consistently among residents and property owners.
In the filing, Galvan wrote that he has concerns that some properties have received warnings, notices, citations or other enforcement actions while other properties with what he described as similar conditions have not.
“I am submitting this complaint regarding concerns of inconsistent and selective enforcement of municipal codes,” Galvan wrote. “It appears that code violations are being handled differently depending on the property owner/resident involved.”
According to the complaint, Galvan believes the alleged inconsistencies create the appearance of unequal treatment and could affect public confidence in the code enforcement process.
Galvan said his concerns are based on observations and interactions he has had while becoming more involved in town government. He stated in the complaint that he believes the issue warrants further review to determine whether enforcement policies are being applied uniformly.
The complaint asks town officials to investigate whether code enforcement procedures are being administered in accordance with town ordinances, established policies and applicable standards.
“If disparities are found,” Galvan wrote, “I ask that appropriate corrective measures be taken to ensure fair and impartial enforcement for all residents.”
Galvan was elected to the Town Council in May and has since raised questions during council meetings regarding a variety of municipal issues, including spending priorities, project timelines and other administrative matters.
The filing does not establish that any violation or wrongdoing occurred. Instead, it formally requests that town officials review the concerns outlined in the complaint.
As of ress time, the Town of Laguna Vista had not released any findings or public response regarding the complaint. Officials have not indicated when the review process, if any, may be completed.