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Guest column by Martha Jones Sichko

On a quiet street in Albert Lea, a 78-year-old widow steps onto her porch, coffee in hand — until the neighbor’s cat lunges at her, causing a traumatic fall. Down the block, a retired teacher returns each evening to find the house next door consumed by waist-high weeds crawling with pests. These quality-of-life issues are the most reported problems in our community, particularly affecting seniors.

Our authority’s primary method for addressing these violations is communication and abatement, which has experienced success. However, those who call for help can be frustrated due to a lack of follow-up or long resolution times. This leaves vulnerable individuals, particularly seniors, feeling stuck while dealing with ongoing issues that can threaten safety and stability.

This is where “serve and protect” must truly apply, as seniors may not speak up, fearing retaliation. Letting chronic problems linger, like — noise, loitering, drug use and vandalism — does more harm than good, negating the abatement program. Crime damages the integrity and livability of the city. The violation can fester, turn toxic and possibly endanger the resident’s safety. Trust shatters if the authorities don’t have the back of the complainant seeking help.

City officials reported that in 2024, there were 180 refuse issues, 320 tall grass issues and 152 junk car issues — up 51%, 41% and 19%, respectively, from 2021. Notable, the increases could stem from more proactivity from the community service officers and the effects of the pandemic. The key statistic needed is the time taken to resolve, uncovering these issues’ full impact.

Ordinances must matter and not become mere suggestions. Seniors need accountability from the laws for peace of mind. Enforcement protects people and preserves neighborhoods. That said, law enforcement conveyed that they address concerns with a focus on the needs of vulnerable citizens and that response protocols vary per situation, from a single mother overwhelmed to a bad actor threatening the complainant.

Discretion and flexibility lets authorities tailor solutions, but updates to residents are vital to prevent a dangerous escalation.

It’s a delicate balance between ensuring due process and swiftly addressing community concerns while preventing the courts from being flooded, even when the violators may deserve judicial attention.

Residents can report violations to the non-emergency number at 507-377-5780, but complaints alone aren’t enough. Ongoing issues need more solutions, and voters can always elect officials who actively support victims of crimes with stronger laws.

And fault never resides with the animals but with the owners.

Martha Jones Sichko is a senior advocate fighting for affordable, accessible health care in Freeborn County.